Kaori Tomaru
Kaori Tomaru was on a six-month program teaching English in Mexico when her friends suggested they go to a local park one night for some ice cream. There they met a homeless dog, all alone and aching for some attention. Kaori Tomaru "He was there in the park going around, begging for food, so lovely and friendly," Tomaru told The Dodo. "He was skinny, dirty and someone had put pink paint on his head as a cruel joke." When the dog began to follow the group home as they left, they knew they couldn't leave him behind. The next day they took him to the local vet to get checked out, and named him Ralph. After taking him to the vet, Tomaru and her friends set out to find Ralph a home - but ended up loving him too much to let him go. "At first we tried to find him a good home locally, then somehow I ended up being the one to keep him," Kaori said. Kaori Tomaru Unfortunately, though, it wasn't that easy. At the end of her stay in Mexico, Tomaru wasn't able to take Ralph home on the plane with her because the San Luis Potosi Airport didn't have planes big enough to accommodate him. Instead of leaving her new friend behind, Tomaru and her dad drove all the way from New York City down to Mexico, picked up Ralph, and drove all the way back. It was during this trip home that Tomaru realized that, like herself, Ralph loves to travel. Dodo Shows Faith = Restored Woman Tries Every Day For A Month To Rescue This Dog Kaori Tomaru "He loves it all, especially being in the car, train or boat, looking out at the scenery, and socializing with people from all over," Tomaru said. "If there was a dog born to travel and meet people, it's him!" Kaori Tomaru After finally making it home, Tomaru began to travel all over the world with Ralph. She soon discovered that in many places it's surprisingly easy to travel with a dog - meaning she would never have to leave him behind again. Ralph went from begging for food in a park in Mexico to traveling the world with his loving new mom. Kaori Tomaru Ralph has been pretty much everywhere at this point. He's seen the incredible architecture of Athens, Greece ... Kaori Tomaru ... the beautiful mountains of Switzerland ... Kaori Tomaru ... the Colosseum in Rome ... Kaori Tomaru ... the Callanish stones in Scotland ... Kaori Tomaru ... and so much more. Kaori Tomaru Ralph and his mom love traveling together so much, and it would have been the perfect happy ending - but now, Ralph is sick. Last October, Ralph developed a cough, and his vet wasn't sure why. "He was the picture of health and had never had any health problems before," Tomaru said. "It was hard to get an accurate diagnosis. It was finally through chest X-rays and EKGs that we found out he had the faulty mitral valve." Ralph's condition is fairly rare, and can only be cured through specialized surgery. Medications have harmful side effects and can only prolong a dog's life, not cure the issue. The surgery is the only way to save Ralph's life, and unfortunately, it costs over $25,000. But the cost hasn't deterred Ralph and his mom. Kaori Tomaru "I knew that I would be using all the savings I had planned to buy a flat to pay for his surgery. Even then it wasn't going to be enough," Tomaru said. She started a GoFundMe campaign to help raise the money for the surgery, and has so far raised $6,000. Ralph and Tomaru are best friends, and life without each other would be unimaginable. "He's one of the greatest, sweetest, people-loving dogs you'll ever meet," Tomaru said. "No one can help smiling when they look at him." Kaori Tomaru "Don't. Just don't," the Pensacola Police Department wrote on its Facebook page . "If you leave your dog in a hot car and that dog is suffering, we will do whatever we have to do to free him." After saving a newborn puppy from a sweltering car, police in Pensacola, Florida, aren't mincing words for anyone who thinks leaving pets in cars is a good idea. Guy Falls In Love With His Little Meatball Of A Foster Dog It seems police officers did just that on Tuesday, posting a picture of a smashed window and a puppy who was freed from a steaming car. The temperature in Pensacola hit 91 degrees yesterday, more than hot enough to be fatal for pets left in cars, whether the windows are rolled down or not. In fact, even if it's only in the low 70s outside, the temperature inside a car can surge to 116 degrees within an hour, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The puppy was returned to her owner after police issued citations. "It was still with its mother and we determined that the best thing for it was to be with its mother," Joy Tsubooka, a spokesperson for Escambia County, where the puppy was found, told Channel 3 News. But Pensacola officers added this warning: "We will drive your pooch to the caring folks at the Escambia County Animal Shelter and we will drop you off with the caring folks at the Escambia County Detention Facility. You will both receive attention, food, and shelter, albeit different kinds. So, don't." Dogs should never be left alone in the car. We've seen the tragic results too many times. Ever wonder what would happen if you took the law into your own hands to save a dog from a car? Read this. Swiss Army Man Starring Daniel Radcliffe and Paul Dano. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. Opens Friday at the Varsity. 97 minutes. 14A It seems safe to say there will be no crazier film this year involving major actors than this existential love story. And maybe no more beautiful one, either. Swiss Army Man is written and directed by Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan, a.k.a. the Daniels of music video fame. They make ample use of their imaginations and visual talents to tell a unique love story. Paul Dano is Hank, marooned on a remote Pacific Ocean isle, who has come to realize that no one is coming to rescue him. Hes prepared to take desperate measures to end his loneliness until the day the body of a man played by Harry Potters Daniel Radcliffe washes ashore. Hank becomes involved with the stiff he calls Manny, in ways that seriously need to be seen to be believed. It all makes for the strangest of bromances, one thats destined to divide audiences, as happened at the films Sundance premiere back in January. There were a few walkouts. No sensibilities are spared as Hank makes use of Mannys surprising dead-guy talents, which include mad flatulence that allows him to be ridden like a JetSki and handy skills at providing water and starting fires. Go ahead and guess how Manny works as a compass. When Manny begins to shows signs of an after-death personality is it a zombie thing, or is Hank going crazy? all bets are off as to where this story is headed. But its impossible not to get caught up in it, even if youre simultaneously repelled by it. Peter Howell Weiner Documentary by Josh Kriegman and Elyse Steinberg. Opens Friday at Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. 96 minutes. 14A Co-directors Josh Kriegman and Elyse Steinberg begin their doc as a redemptive chronicle of disgraced former U.S. Democratic Congressman Anthony D. Weiner. It turns into an astounding chronicle of hubris. Weiner resigned in 2011 after tweeting explicit photos of himself to young women online. Afterward, he penitently claimed to have ceased his sordid habits, but the lie catches up to him as he runs for NYC mayor in 2013. The camera catches his shock and paralyzing fear, and the anger and dismay of his wife Huma Abedin and campaign staffers, as an online gossip site reveals the candidate is still sexting women, at least one of whom is seeking some kind of vengeance. Wrapped up in his own narcissistic bubble, Weiner allows the astonished Kriegman and Steinberg to continue filming him, to devastating effect. Peter Howell The Daughter Starring Sam Neill, Geoffrey Rush, Paul Schneider and Odessa Young. Directed by Simon Stone. Opening Friday at Cineplex Yonge & Dundas. 91 minutes. 14A Henrik Ibsens The Wild Duck shifts from Norway to a moodily decaying Australian lumber town for this drama about a potentially heartbreaking long-quiet family secret. Estranged for years from his wealthy mill owner father (Geoffrey Rush), Christian (Paul Schneider) returns from the U.S. for the old mans wedding to his much-younger housekeeper. There he reunites with a childhood friend, Oliver (Ewen Leslie), now married and with a teen daughter, Hedvig (Odessa Young, impressive). Oliver is out of work since the mill closed. Hes a struggling, while damaged Christian, who denies his demons, and pieces a mystery together that will have far-reaching consequences if he cant keep it to himself. After a slow build, the final act picks up the pace but director Simon Stone shows his hand too early. Still, its chilling to watch the wreckage pile up. Linda Barnard The Purge: Election Year Starring Frank Grillo, Elizabeth Mitchell and Mykelti Williamson. Directed by James DeMonaco. Opens Friday at major theatres. 109 minutes. 18A The world has gone so topsy-turvy that the dumb-fun Purge franchise now qualifies as political satire. By vowing to end the annual Purge the one night when murder is legal underdog presidential candidate Sen. Charlie Roan (Elizabeth Mitchell) has made seriously psychopathic enemies. Naturally, they choose the grisly fiesta to take her out. She relies on her loyal security (Frank Grillo, Anarchys taciturn butt-kicker), a deli owner (Mykelti Williamson, spouting the best lines) and a Good Samaritan who kills like a samurai (Betty Gabriel) to ward off hordes of white-supremacist mercenaries, murder tourists and bloodthirsty schoolgirls in gory corsets. Occupy, Trump, Black Lives Matter and the NRA all figure into the ideological swirl, but purge the urge to look for real meaning. Like the election it clumsily invokes, the lively third Purge is as thrilling as it is silly. Nick Patch Our Kind of Traitor Starring Ewan McGregor, Stellan Skarsgard. Directed by Susanna White. Opens Friday at major theatres. 107 minutes. 14A The Cold War may be over but the Russian mafia schemes to infiltrate London, one of the worlds financial capitals, to launder dirty money. Ewan McGregor and Naomie Harris are British couple Perry and Gail, holidaying in Morocco and struggling to get past infidelity. They encounter Dima (Stellan Skarsgard), a bluff Russian with a prodigious memory for numbers. Dima, desperate to avoid certain death at the hands of a ruthless oligarch, sees a gentleman and honest soul in Perry, drawing him into a plan to defect by providing information on crooked British politicians. The performances are lovely and director Susanna White manages to wring maximum tension from the cat-and-mouse game. Fans of spy novelist John le Carre may take umbrage with the reworked ending, but the film is nonetheless a riveting and accomplished work. Bruce DeMara SHARE: Of the four most recent American presidents to have addressed a joint session of the Canadian Parliament, Barack Obama has the least political capital left to spare to translate words into actions. In the dying months of his presidency, he is down to small change. Richard Nixon, who addressed Parliament in 1972, was around for another two years after his speech. Before he succumbed to the Watergate scandal, he pulled American troops out of Vietnam. Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton delivered speeches early on in their first mandates. Reagan came back for an encore at a crucial time in the negotiations that led to the initial free-trade agreement (FTA) between Canada and the United States. By comparison Obama wont be around to turn into reality the tripartite agreements concluded by Canada, Mexico and the United States on Wednesday. To be fair, for all the glitter that attends such presidential visits to Canada, it is a rare one that has lasting geopolitical impact on the rest of the planet or, for that matter, the national scene. In my time, I can mostly think of only one. The 1985 Shamrock summit so dubbed because it brought together two leaders of Irish descent, Reagan and Brian Mulroney led to the creation of what is today the North American free trade zone. But that meeting took place at a time when trade between the United States and Canada was at the heart of the conversation and not yet linked with domestic security and terrorism issues. Obama was the first U.S. president to speak to Parliament since 9/11 and also the first in more than 20 years the longest hiatus by far between presidential addresses. Over that period, Canada has become a smaller dot on the White House radar and possibly never smaller than over Obamas tenure. Stephen Harper has been taking flak for that and some of it is deserved. His government went out of its way to make its displeasure over Obamas decision to block the Keystone pipeline known to those associated with his administration starting with the American diplomats who toil in the federal capital. There is some amount of payback in the presidential affection Justin Trudeau has been showered with since he became prime minister. But it would be premature to confuse the whims of an outgoing president with a guarantee of a more productive Canada-U.S. relationship going forward. The decline in the already modest Canadian influence in Washington is at least partly structural in nature. And the relationship could be about to become rockier even if Donald Trump does not win the presidency next November. Take free trade, the joint adventure Mulroney and Reagan set Canada and the U.S. on three decades ago and that has since come to include Mexico. For the first time since the initial FTAs inception, it is treated as a liability by both of the presumptive nominees in the American presidential election. The Democrats have long had a love-hate relationship with free trade arrangements. Obama mused about renegotiating NAFTA when he was first campaigning for the presidency. But this week, Donald Trump broke with pro-trade Republican history with an ad hominem denunciation not only of the North American free trade arrangements but also of the deal agreed to in principle last fall by the 12 countries of the Pacific zone. Trump called the yet-to-be-ratified Trans-Pacific Partnership a rape of the United States. Hillary Clinton has also sided against Obamas parting trade deal. The latter did not prevent the outgoing president from giving his last North American leaders summit the flavour of a day in the life of an adversarial U.S. presidential campaign. Trump was never named but he was in the subtext of a good many of the public exchanges. That Obama used his podium to take on some of Trumps rhetoric while his Canadian and Mexican partners looked on benignly speaks to unusual nature of the campaign for his succession. The U.S.s next-door neighbours normally steer as clear as possible of American presidential politics as do visiting presidents who are to soon retire. A word in closing on the counter-Brexit message this weeks summit is deemed to have sent to the rest of the world. Before getting carried away by that assertion, consider that none of the so-called Three Amigos would contemplate signing up for a fraction of the political integration involved in being part of the European Union. Read more about: SHARE: VANCOUVERThe Canadian government failed in its duty to consult with aboriginal people before giving the green light to a controversial pipeline proposal to link Albertas oilsands to British Columbias north coast, the Federal Court of Appeal has ruled. The court quashed federal approval for Enbridges $7.9-billion Northern Gateway project in a written decision dated June 23 but released Thursday by a law firm involved in the appeal. The judgment says the government neglected to discuss subjects of critical importance to First Nations by ignoring many of the projects impacts and offering only a brief, hurried and inadequate opportunity for consultation. The inadequacies more than just a handful and more than mere imperfections left entire subjects of central interest to the affected First Nations, sometimes subjects affecting their subsistence and well-being, entirely ignored. Many impacts of the project . . . were left undisclosed, undiscussed and unconsidered, the decision reads. It would have taken Canada little time and little organizational effort to engage in meaningful dialogue on these and other subjects of prime importance to Aboriginal Peoples. But this did not happen. The pipeline proposal received federal approval in 2014 but has been mired in legal uncertainty ever since. Eight First Nations, four environmental groups and one labour union launched the legal challenge, which was heard by the appeal court in October. The three-judge panel that heard the appeal was split 2-1. Enbridge did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Calgary-based energy company and its 31 aboriginal equity partners asked the National Energy Board for a three-year extension to the 2016 construction deadline to allow for more consultation. But the First Nations who oppose the project, many of them located on B.C.s north coast, say extra time wont sway their position. Prime Minister Justin Trudeaucommitted during last years election campaign to formalize a ban on tanker traffic on the north coast, which critics say will kill the project. Trudeau has also voiced his opposition to a crude oil pipeline through the Great Bear rainforest, through which Northern Gateway would traverse. The proposal would involve the construction of more than a thousand kilometres of pipeline from northeast of Edmonton to Kitimat, B.C., for shipping to international markets. A parallel line would send 193,000 barrels a day of bitumen-thinning diluent in the opposite direction. Environmental organizations are celebrating the appeal courts decision. Today is a good day for the B.C. coast, climate and salmon rivers, said Sierra Club spokeswoman Caitlyn Vernon. By overturning federal approval of Northern Gateway, the courts have put yet another nail in the coffin of this pipeline-and-tankers project. The Sierra Club helped raise money to fund First Nations involved in the legal challenge. Read more about: SHARE: One of Mayor John Torys key campaign ideas is getting a boost from a not wholly unexpected source: some of the people who ran his campaign. A group called Friends & Allies of SmartTrack (FAST) has released a report backing Torys election proposal to use tax increment financing (TIF) to pay for SmartTrack, his signature transit line. The report determined that TIF, a complicated and untested financing mechanism, could raise up to $2.3 billion over 30 years, which could be enough to pay the citys share of the rail project. Our analysis shows that tax increment financing would help fund SmartTrack, and would free up resources for other projects, said Arthur Lofsky, one of the reports authors. FAST describes itself as a not-for-profit advocacy group formed last year by like-minded people who believe that SmartTrack is Torontos chance to erase decades of inaction on transit. The groups managing director is Tom Allison, who was Torys campaign director, and its advisory board includes David S. Young, who served as legal counsel to the mayors 2014 campaign. Lofsky once worked as a policy director for former Ontario Liberal finance minister Greg Sorbara, and like the reports other author, Peter Tomlinson, the former director of economic development for the City of Toronto, he volunteered on Torys campaign. While Allison acknowledged that FASTs support of SmartTrack aligns with what the mayor campaigned on, he stressed that there isnt an association of any kind between the group and the mayors office. Were independent, he said. Keerthana Kamalavasan, a spokeswoman for the mayor, also said Tory is not associated with FAST. But the mayor does agree with the groups general conclusions. Kamalavasan wrote in an email that the mayor is confident tax incremental financing can finance the Citys portion of SmartTrack. TIF has been used by American municipalities to fund infrastructure projects, but has never been tried in Toronto. In simple terms, it would work like this: first, the city would designate specific areas that would benefit from SmartTrack. Then the city would borrow money to build the transit line. Years later when property values within the TIF zone start to increase as a result of being served by new transit, the city would take that increased tax revenue and pay off SmartTracks construction costs. The FAST report, which was based on growth projections commissioned by the city, identified three potential TIF zones: Liberty Village, the West Don Lands, and the area of Lawrence Ave. E. near the Stouffville GO corridor. It projected that SmartTrack would create 11.45 million square feet of new commercial growth, and 5.2 million square feet of new residential growth. The authors projected that the development could help fuel up to $2.3 billion in property tax revenue, contingent on changes to provincial legislation. That would cover most of the $3.2 billionthat the province has said the city and federal government needs to find to pay for SmartTrack, which has been whittled down to a 15-stop line with up to six new stations, down from the more expensive 22-stop project Tory pitched during the campaign. The price includes up to $2.1 billion for the Eglinton West LRT, which would replace the western spur of Torys original SmartTrack plan. The federal Liberals have pledged $2.6 billion for SmartTrack. Murtaza Haider supports SmartTrack, but cautions against seeing TIF as a magic bullet. Haider, an associate professor at Ryerson Universitys Ted Rogers School of Management, examined TIF in a recent paper for the Institute on Municipal Finance and Governance at the Munk School of Global Affairs, and determined that while it can be successful for smaller projects, its risky when relied on for larger ones. His research found that only two jurisdictions have attempted to use TIF to for projects worth over $1 billion, and both fell short. Haider explained that TIF relies on making accurate projections about the real estate market over several decades, and a shock like a correction to Torontos hot housing market sometime within the next 30 years could blow a hole in SmartTracks budget. My fear is when I look at these numbers, theres such a large speculative amount tied to price appreciation and tied to new growth in residential and commercial real estate that may or may not occur, and theres no one who can say . . . we are 100 per cent sure that will happen, he said. Predicting future real estate values linked to SmartTrack is complicated by the fact that basic details of how the service will operate, including how often trains would run, have yet to be finalized. City staff are studying the role of TIFs in paying for SmartTrack and are expected to report back in the coming months. Metrolinx, the provincial transit agency in charge of the GO regional express rail project on which SmartTrack depends, wants a funding commitment from the city by Nov. 30. Read more about: SHARE: The woman found dead after this weeks massive home explosion in Mississauga has been identified by police as Diane Page, while investigators uncovered a second body, a man, at the blast site Thursday evening. Police had confirmed earlier that the house at 4201 Hickory Dr., which suddenly blew up Tuesday afternoon, was owned by Page and a man named Robert Nadler. A member of Nadlers family told the Star that the 55-year-old is the same man convicted of a Peel Region murder in 1982. Responding to questions Thursday night, Peel police Const. Harinder Sohi would not confirm whether officers had made contact with the families of Page or Nadler. It is not clear whether the body found Thursday is Nadler. The huge explosion Tuesday afternoon rocked the peaceful east Mississauga neighbourhood, where residents described clouds of smoke billowing in the air as chunks of concrete, wood, paper and pink insulation rained from the sky. Pages brother, Micheal Camilleri, said in an interview that he raced to Peel polices 12 Division detachment Thursday after learning his sister was involved in the home explosion. They showed me a picture of her when she was alive. She had brown hair, and (they) asked me, Is this your sister? And I said yes, Camilleri told the Star. They couldnt tell me how she died, when she died only that it is my sister. Page turned 55 earlier this year, while Nadler is set to turn 56 on Canada Day. According to a mortgage document for their home, they were spouses. In a news conference Thursday afternoon, before the second body was found, Peel police Sgt. Josh Colley repeatedly said that investigators are still searching for Page and Nadler. Colley did not rule out the possibility that Nadler died in the blast, as investigators from the Office of the Fire Marshal continued to sift through the wreckage on Hickory Dr. One of Nadlers relatives, who didnt want to be identified out of fear for their safety, said Peel police phoned the family Thursday to say they had found a body at the site of the explosion. The person said Nadler, who is estranged from his relatives, believed planes emit poison gas as jet streams and that the world would end in the year 2000. The relative said it was shocking to see news coverage of the blast on television. We were just completely dumbfounded. We were absolutely floored, couldnt believe, the relative said, trailing off. According to articles from the Stars archives, Nadler killed his best friend in June 1979. The stories detail how Nadler admitted that he bludgeoned, strangled and knifed his friend, Eric Pogson, to death in a fight over drug money. Pogsons body was found in a shallow grave in a bush near Golden Orchard Dr. in Mississauga on June 3, 1980. Two years later, after another friend and classmate named John Dyminski co-operated with police to secretly tape a confession, Nadler pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 10 years, according to a Star report from the time. A second member of Nadlers family who spoke with the Star said he was released from prison to a halfway house in 1992. Multiple members of the Logos Family Church, about a five-minute drive from 4201 Hickory Dr., told the Star that Nadler and Page met at the church and began dating five or six years ago. Rachel Boettcher and Heather Boettcher, who are sisters, said Nadler regularly brought vegetables from his garden to church, but eventually fell out with the church over a disagreement regarding scripture and the churchs teachings. He was always a little weird, but he was nice and giving, said Heather Boettcher. He pretty much always had tinfoil on his windows. On Tuesday, the Star reported handwritten notes were found on the street among the debris in front of the destroyed house and were given to police. Dear God, as of next week everything will fall apart for us, begins one note whose author is unknown. Asked about the notes Thursday, Colley said police are examining all documents found in the blast radius. Whether or not they are related to the cause of the blast is still unknown. Its an extensive process to try to match up handwriting analysis, so theyre working to try and associate those documents (with the house that exploded), Colley said. Bozena Wolanin said she lives three doors down from 4201 Hickory and almost never saw the people who lived there. She said that, as long as she can remember, all the windows of the house were covered with aluminum foil. Thursday updates Wolanin added that she only once met the woman from that house. She was very nice, she said. Really pleasant. As a clearer picture of Page and Nadler emerged Thursday, the cause of the explosion remained murky. Jeff Minter, supervisor of fire investigations for the fire marshal, said their investigation has progressed to the area immediately affected by the blast, around Hickory Dr. and Rathburn Rd. Heavy equipment will be used to carefully sift through the rubble and make sure affected houses in the area are either safe or must be torn down, he said. The investigation could last into the weekend, he said. As of Thursday evening, an evacuation order still affected 46 addresses in the area surrounding the blast site, said Peel Region Fire Chief Tim Beckett as he left a meeting to update residents at the Burnhamthorpe Community Centre. Moments later, 30-year-old Natalie Lewandowski marched out of the centre. Three months pregnant, she lives in a townhouse just a stones throw away from the epicentre of the explosion, and she was on her way to an ultrasound to make sure the baby shes carrying is all right. Like many others, shes had to find alternative accommodation in her case, an air mattress on a friends floor while officials work to figure out whether its safe for her to go home. Lewandowski said she was told by officials that her house might have to be torn down. At this point its either yes or never, she sighed. This was the scariest experience of my life . . . Im devastated. SHARE: Gov.-Gen. David Johnston has announced 113 new appointments to the Order of Canada. The appointees join the list of more than 6,500 recipients of one of the countrys highest civilian honours, which was established in 1967. The Star spoke to five new Toronto-area people joining that list. Michael Budman and Don Green, Roots Canada co-founders Appointed members of the Order of Canada, Budman and Green are recognized for their leadership in establishing a unique retail brand and for their commitment to the environment and to healthy living. They founded Roots Canada in 1973 at a small store on Yonge Street, growing the company for the next 42 years before selling off their majority stake last October. Both born and raised in Detroit, the two met in 1962 while camping at Algonquin Park, where they plan to celebrate this weekend, according to Budman. Im really proud of the fact that Im an immigrant, said Budman, 70. The single best decision that both of us made in life was moving to Canada. Budman and Green, now 67, started the company with an idea and no business plan, the former said. They built a brand where the identity was Canada. Piers Handling, TIFF CEO Handling is one of 27 individuals appointed an officer of the Order of Canada, the honours second highest rank, for his success in transforming the Toronto International Film Festival into a fixture of world and Canadian film. Handling joined the organization in 1982 and became CEO in 1994, having previously worked as deputy director of the Canadian Film Institute. His vision was to make TIFF one of the major centres for film cultures in the world. Handling said he felt this was accomplished through the addition of year-long activities and outreach initiatives, and the opening of the five-storey TIFF Bell Lightbox building in 2010. To just be perceived as being in the top tier that was a big mountain to climb, said Handling. Andres Lozano, neurosurgeon, Toronto Western Hospital For his contributions as a neurosurgeon who helped to establish deep brain stimulation as a globally recognized treatment for movement disorders, Lozano is appointed an officer of the Order of Canada. He being honoured primarily for his research into Deep Brain Stimulation, a process whereby electricity is used to regulate the activity of malfunctioning brain circuits and control the symptoms of many disorders, such as Parkinsons disease. The brain is the great frontier, the great unknown. Its like space, said Lozano, who also serves as the Dan Family Chair in Neurosurgery at the University of Toronto. Ive been able to go to the areas of the brain that no one has been to before and discover neurons and what they do. Isabel Bassett, former journalist and politician The new Order of Canada member receives the honour for her community engagement and commitment to the advancement of women and public service, notably in educational broadcasting. A former teacher, Bassett, 76, had a decorated career as a broadcaster for CFTO-TV (later CTV) beginning in the 1960s, winning awards for her reports and documentaries on social and political issues. She was elected a Member of Provincial Parliament in Ontario in 1995 for the Progressive Conservative Party, where she served as Minister of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation. In 1999, Bassett was appointed Chair and CEO of TVOntario, positions she held until 2005. Bassett said she tried to use each of her roles to advance the recognition of women and minorities. Im old enough that I heard the first women broadcasters reading the news, she said. When I got to TVOntario it was all white people and that wasnt what I saw around me in Toronto or Ontario. Bassett said she strived to ensure interviewees on flagship programs represented diverse backgrounds. Dennis OConnor, lawyer and former judge OConnors appointment as an officer to the Order of Canada comes for his service to the legal profession, and for his commitment to justice as a commissioner of the Walkerton and Arar inquiries. OConnor has spent more than 50 years in the legal profession, including 14 years as a judge on Ontarios Court of Appeal from 1998-2012, where he was also the Associate Chief Justice of Ontario from 2001-2012. He previously served as a deputy judge of the Yukon Supreme Court. OConnor was the commissioner of the provincial Walkerton Inquiry in 2000, which looked into contaminated water supplies that killed seven people. He also led the federal Maher Arar Inquiry from 2004-2006, which investigated the torture of Syrian-Canadian Maher Arar. Doing those two inquiries were enormous highlights for me. They both were obviously very serious subject matters, both tragic in their way, but they provided an opportunity to focus on what had happened and try to make recommendations so that those types of things wouldnt happen in the future, he said. To be given the opportunity to work on something like that was an exceptional privilege. SHARE: Dont despair if youre not headed to a cottage this long weekend because the warm temperatures are perfect for celebrating Canada Day and going out for Pride Month festivities in the city. With so much going on, heres a roundup of whats closed, whats open, some road closures that are in effect, and what special events are happening in Toronto this long weekend. Whats open? All Civic Centres are available for use on Canada Day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to accommodate any existing booked events and meetings Long-term care homes and services will be operating as usual The citys tourist attractions, such as the CN Tower, the Toronto Zoo and museums, are open Emergency shelters will be open TTC will be operating on its Sunday schedule GO Transit will be operating on its Saturday schedule Toronto Eaton Centre, Square One and Vaughan Mills will be open on Canada Day, but with reduced hours Whats closed? All city employment and social service offices will be closed on Canada Day, but are accessible online at the City of Toronto website Libraries, banks, post offices, all LCBO and The Beer Store locations will be closed Several malls in the GTA, including Yorkdale Mall, East York Town Centre, Scarborough Town Centre, will be closed on Canada Day. Make sure to double-check before you head out! Whats happening? The City of Toronto is celebrating the 149th birthday of Canada on Friday with lots of music, family activities and the annual fireworks show at 10:15 p.m. at Mel Lastman Square If youre feeling extra patriotic on Canada Day, you can kick off the long weekend festivities at Fort York, which will be featuring a musket and artillery drill performance, a mirror maze, face painting for the kids and live music. You can also bring the whole family to the annual, fun-filled Canada Day celebration at Queens Park, where theres something to see and do for kids of all ages. The event is full of musical performances, arts and crafts tables, food vendors and lots of other entertainment. The celebrations will be starting at 10 a.m. on the front lawn of Queens Park in Toronto. Woodbine Park will be hosting a Canada Day Picnic featuring a series of rock n roll tributes to Aerosmith, Fleetwood Mac, The Tragically Hip among others. The night will end with Torontos largest fireworks display from Ashbridges Bay, set to a live tribute to the one and only Bon Jovi. Torontonians can also catch Canada Day fireworks at Harbourfront Centre at 10:40 p.m., Amesbury Park at 9:45 p.m., Downsview Park at 10 p.m. On Friday, the Trans March will be starting at Church and Hayden streets at 8 p.m. and wraps up at Allan Gardens an hour later. The last weekend of Pride Month is full of celebrations and festivities. Check out the Pride Toronto schedule for weekend activities! Road closures There are many road closures in effect throughout the long weekend for Canada Day and Pride Month festivities. Police are advising motorists to exercise caution and take public transit if possible. Friday: Queens Park and Queens Park Circle will be closed from College to Bloor streets from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for Canada Day celebrations Southbound lanes of Yonge St. between North York Blvd. and Park Home Ave. will be closed from noon to 11 p.m. on Friday for Canada Day celebrations at Mel Lastman Square Church St., from Hayden St. to Bloor St. east will be closed from 8 p.m to 9 p.m. for the annual Pride Week Trans March A Streetfair for Pride Month will be held in the Church-Wellesley Village. The road closure for Streetfair will start on Friday at 6 p.m., and will conclude on Monday at 6 a.m. Church Street will be fully closed to all vehicular traffic, from the north side of Carlton Street to the south side of Hayden S. Wellesley Street East will also be closed, from Yonge St. to Jarvis St. Cosburn Ave., from Cedarvale Ave. to Oak Park will be closed from 7 a.m. to midnight for Canada Day celebrations at Stan Wadlow Park Saturday: Wellesley St. from Jarvis St. to Queens Park Circle and Queens Park from College to Bloor streets will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to noon for the Pride and Remembrance Day Run Sunday: Sundays 36th Pride Parade will be starting at Church and Bloor streets, and will be ending near Yonge to Dundas St. east and then to Victoria Street. Roads following the parade route will be closed between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. SHARE: The Liberals are willing to fight the next provincial election on the strength of sweeping welfare reform and support to Ontarios most vulnerable residents, says Social Services Minister Helena Jaczek. The journey to get there began Wednesday, when Jaczek appointed former Ontario Provincial Court judge George Thomson to lead a working group of community advocates and experts to craft a new income security system based on fairness, adequacy and simplicity. I feel fairly confident we are going to be making a commitment to vulnerable Ontarians in the 2018 budget, Jaczek told a gathering at the YWCA in downtown Toronto. If the election, which I anticipate in June 2018, occurs, I will be particularly proud to stand by the commitment, she added. The income security working group will produce a roadmap for reform within 12 months, including a fully-costed, multi-year implementation plan, Jaczek said. She wants the group to tackle the current confusing, complicated and intrusive welfare rules that condemn recipients to poverty and throw up barriers to employment. That means looking towards a broader income-security approach one that considers housing, child benefits, health benefits, training and employment supports, she said. The ultimate goal is to make programs as effective as possible for the people who require them. This is Thomsons second crack at provincial welfare reform. In the late 1980s, he headed the Social Assistance Review Committee for David Petersons Liberal government, which resulted in generous rate increases and new policies aimed at moving people out of poverty and into employment. Mike Harriss Conservative government scrapped the plan in 1995 and made the deepest cuts to welfare in Ontario history. The current exercise will be different, Thomson said, because the mandate is broader. His group will work closely with the provinces basic income pilot, a form of guaranteed annual income, being designed this summer by former Conservative senator Hugh Segal. We will be thinking about what we should be doing if that pilot is generalized to something broader and what we should be doing if it isnt, Thomson said. Advocates appointed to the working group were anxious to get started and encouraged by the mandate. Looking at the broader income security system is something we advocated in 2009, said John Stapleton, a former provincial social services bureaucrat and policy consultant who was part of an earlier advisory panel on social assistance. So Im pleased we are finally going to get a chance to do that work. . . SHARE: MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIAA teenager pleaded guilty Thursday to plotting to run over and behead a police officer as part of Daesh-inspired attack on an Australian Veterans Day ceremony. Sevdet Besim, 19, pleaded guilty in Victoria states Supreme Court to one count of planning for a terrorist act, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. Prosecutors said Besim was involved in a plot to attack last years services in Melbourne or the neighbouring city of Dandenong marking ANZAC Day, the annual commemoration of the 1915 Gallipoli landings in Turkey. The campaign was the first major military action fought by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps during World War I and hundreds of thousands of people attend commemoration services around Australia. In court documents, prosecutors said that Besim and a British accomplice had also discussed packing a kangaroo with explosives and painting it with the Daesh symbol before setting it loose on Australian police officers. The documents dont suggest the alleged kangaroo plot was linked to the ANZAC Day plot. Police say Besim was motivated by an extremist ideology and had expressed support for terrorist organizations, particularly for Daesh, also known as the Islamic State group. Last year, a British court sentenced a 15-year-old boy from Blackburn, in northwestern England, for his part in the plot. Besim has been in custody since his arrest last year. He is scheduled to return to court in August for a pre-sentence hearing. Read more about: SHARE: Ottawa continues to advocate on behalf of Bashir Makhtal, a Canadian citizen serving a life sentence in Ethiopia on terrorism charges, said Liberal MP Omar Alghabra, the parliamentary secretary for foreign affairs. I can tell you ever since Ive been appointed to this position Ive been working quite a bit on this file, he told the Star. Were doing everything we can to see Bashir back home. Makhtal, who has always maintained his innocence, was arrested in January 2006 on the border of Somalia and Kenya, after fleeing Mogadishu and the fall of the Somali Islamic Courts Union government. He was convicted in 2009 in a trial that human rights advocates insist was unfair. He was questioned in Nairobi and eventually put on a top-secret flight to Ethiopia, where he was eventually charged with multiple counts of terrorism, under accusations he had been a ringleader with the Ogaden National Liberation front, an ethnic Somali group formed by his grandfather to gain independence for the oil-rich region. While Alghabra wont confirm or deny that a prisoner exchange is in the works for Makhtal, the Star has confirmed with his cousin Said Maktal that a prison transfer had been approved by Ottawa last fall. The case is currently in the hands of the Ethiopian government. Bashir Makhtal was offered a prison transfer in 2013, but he rejected the option at the time because he said he was innocent. But because of his deteriorating health, he later agreed to the transfer, which would see him serve five more years in a Canadian prison, his cousin said. Maktal said he has met with Alghabra, who has assured him they are working to get his cousin back to Canada. It has been a decade of injustice, he said. It would have been better if they got him released, but if they can speed up the transfer it would be a least good for the family to see their lost brother. We understand the Canadian government is trying to do everything it can to see that the transfer is effected as soon as possible, said Lorne Waldman, a Toronto immigration and human rights lawyer who represents the imprisoned Canadian. There are ongoing negotiations with Ethiopa, Waldman said. As far as Im aware there hasnt been a final decision by Ethiopia to approve it. I know the Canadian government is trying to get the transfer achieved. So far they havent got the consent of the Ethiopians to proceed, but theyre working hard. Were doing everything we can do with the Canadian government to allow the transfer to take place as soon as possible so Bashir can be near his family. The fact Makhtal, who is in his mid-40s, is still languishing in prison in Ethiopia still greatly concerns Alex Neve, secretary general of Amnesty International Canada. We understand the Canadian government is taking it seriously and we urge that those efforts continue to be a priority and that the drive to get Bashir back to Canada intensifies. Makhtals wife, Asiso Abdi, came to Canada as a government-assisted refugee several years ago. The Star contacted the Ethiopian Embassy for an update on the prisoner exchange, but got no response. SHARE: In late October 2014, the FBI received an unusual email from a young man named Mohimanul Alam Bhuiya. Bhuiya, then 25, had joined Daesh, also known as the Islamic State group or ISIS. Now the longtime Brooklyn resident was desperate and looking for a way out. He wanted the FBI to rescue him. I am an American whos trying to get back home from Syria, he wrote in his email, according to federal court documents unsealed last month. I just want to get back home. All I want is this extraction, complete exoneration thereafter, and have everything back to normal with me and my family. He added: I am fed up with this evil. The FBI was still verifying his identity when Bhuiya managed to escape about a week later. He returned to the United States, where he was promptly arrested and charged with providing material support and receiving military training from Daesh. In a closed courtroom in Brooklyn, he pleaded guilty to both counts on Nov. 26, 2014, according to the court filings. He faces up to 25 years in prison. Bhuiyas name is redacted in the documents, but several U.S. law enforcement officials confirmed his identity. His lawyer did not return a message, and efforts to reach his family were unsuccessful. Prosecutors told the judge that redacting his name was necessary to protect the integrity of the ongoing government investigations and the safety of the defendant and his family. But NBC News in May ran an interview with Bhuiya, with co-operation from the Justice Department, in which he appeared under the name Mo with his face completely unobscured. A spokeswoman for the U.S. Attorneys Office in Brooklyn declined to comment. Bhuiya was not your average wayward Daesh recruit. Unlike many of the people the U.S. Justice Department has charged in connection with the terrorist group, Bhuiya appeared to have a bright future. He attended Columbia University before he fell under the sway of Daesh. A young man from an Ivy League school challenges the conventional wisdom of a typical American ISIS recruit, said Seamus Hughes, the deputy director at the program on extremism at George Washington Universitys Center for Cyber & Homeland Security and a former National Counterterrorism Center staffer. Bhuiya went to high school in Brooklyn. He seemed to be a well-adjusted student who took a serious interest in Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison, according to a 2008 essay he wrote for the school newspaper entitled Sample College Essay: My Superhero. He praised President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, who fought a worldwide battle against the evil supervillain Adolf Hitler. In the essay, he said he wanted to major in psychology. He concluded: I believe that I have greatness in me, he wrote. I want to be a superhero. According to a Columbia University spokesman, Bhuiya attended the School of General Studies. He was enrolled for one semester from January to May 2013 and not did not earn a degree. Bhuiya had come to the attention of the FBI before he travelled to Syria. According to court documents, investigators with the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York learned in June 2014 that the young man might be planning to travel to Syria. When authorities interviewed Bhuiya at his home in Brooklyn, he told investigators that he was interested in events in Syria and supported rebel groups. But he claimed he lacked the money to travel to Syria and did not know what he would do if he got there. Days later, he flew to Istanbul and then managed to enter Syria. He had little interest in fighting. He implored Daesh commanders not to send me off to the front lines because I can be useful in other ways, according to the NBC interview. It seemed to me that it would, you know, save my skin. Bhuiya said he quickly became disillusioned and described Daesh as a dystopia. You could see madness in their eyes, he recalled. Bhuiya decided to flee. In the email to the FBI, he said he did not have a passport because Daesh had taken it. He asked if someone could pick him up at the border. Please help me get home, he told the FBI. According to court documents, Bhuiya managed to escape across the border into Turkey and make his way to a U.S. State Department outpost in Adana, which is in the southern part of the country. He admitted that he had joined and worked for Daesh. He said he carried a weapon but had never been involved in fighting. It is not clear where Bhuiya is being held as he awaits sentencing. Court documents indicate that prosecutors, at Bhuiyas request, had been exploring the possibility of going public with his story. Read more about: SHARE: BAGHDADThe UN childrens fund warned on Thursday that 3.6 million Iraqi children are at serious risk of death, injury, sexual violence, abduction and recruitment into armed groups, and has called on warring parties in Iraq to protect their rights. In a report titled A Heavy Price for Children, UNICEF said that the number of children in Iraq at serious risk of death or wartime exploitation had increased by 1.3 million in the past 18 months. It described Iraq as one of the most dangerous places in the world for children. The report said that the 2014 Daesh invasion of large areas of Iraqs north and west and the military operation to unseat them have had a catastrophic impact, with some 4.7 million Iraqi children in need of humanitarian assistance. It said children were also affected by the lack of adequate health care, poor public services and the desperate state of education. Children in Iraq are in the firing line and are being repeatedly and relentlessly targeted, said Peter Hawkins, UNICEFs Iraq representative. We appeal to all parties for restraint and to respect and protect children. We must help give children the support they need to recover from the horrors of war and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Iraq. UNICEF called for an urgent action to protect childrens rights in war-torn Iraq. It appealed for humanitarian access to all children across Iraq, including in Daesh-controlled areas, to improve education and to provide psychological and recreation programs. UNICEF said it was short of funding and was seeking $100 million for its 2016 programs in Iraq. Iraq is going through its worst crisis since the 2011 withdrawal of U.S. troops. In the summer of 2014, Daesh, also known as the Islamic State group, blitzed across large swaths of the countrys north and west, capturing Iraqs second-largest city of Mosul and the majority of the western Anbar province. Daesh has since suffered major defeats when Iraqi forces, backed by U.S.-led coalition, drove the extremists out of several key cities, including the city of Fallujah, which was retaken by Iraqi forces earlier this week. Daesh extremists still control significant areas, including Mosul. Read more about: SHARE: ISTANBULAs the death toll from the Istanbul airport attack rose Thursday to 44, a senior Turkish official said the three suicide bombers who carried it out were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and police raided neighbourhoods looking for suspects linked to Daesh. Turkish authorities have said all information suggested the Tuesday night attack on Ataturk Airport, one of the worlds busiest, was the work of Daesh, also known as the Islamic State group, which boasted this week of having cells in Turkey, among other countries. The police raided 16 locations in three neighbourhoods on both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul, rounding up 13 people suspected of having links to Daesh. Meanwhile, victims of the attack have left behind mourning friends and relatives who are now struggling to deal with their loss. There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the militant group, which has used Turkey as a crossing point to establish itself in neighbouring Syria and Iraq. Daesh has repeatedly threatened Turkey in its propaganda publications, and the NATO member has blamed Daesh for several major bombings in the past year in both Ankara and Istanbul. The senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because government regulations did not authorize him to talk to the media, said the attackers were from Russia and the Central Asian nations of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. He could not confirm media reports that the Russian was from the restive Dagestan region in the Caucasus Mountains. A medical team was working around the clock to identify the attackers, the official said, noting their bodies had suffered extensive damage. Kyrgyzstans Foreign Ministry denied that an attacker came from that country, saying its representatives had talked to Turkish officials who said the identities were still to be determined. Asked about the possible involvement of a Russian in the attacks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had no information on the issue. There was no comment from Uzbekistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that between 5,000 and 7,000 people from Russia and other nations of the former Soviet Union have joined Daesh in Syria and Iraq. Many Muslims from Russias southern region of Chechnya have settled in Turkey since the time of the Chechen separatist wars, and Moscow has repeatedly accused Turkey of failing to co-operate in tracking down suspected terrorists. People from Chechnya and other provinces in Russias volatile North Caucasus region have had a visible presence among Daesh fighters. Tarkhan Batirashvili, who took the nom de guerre Omar al Shishani, or Omar the Chechen, an ethnic Chechen from the former Soviet republic of Georgia, rose to the rank of a senior Daesh commander before he died of wounds suffered in a U.S. airstrike in Syria earlier this year. Al-Shishani served as a magnet for jihadi fighters from the former Soviet Union. Turkish state media said the death toll in the attack rose to 44 after a 25-year-old airport worker succumbed to his wounds. Interior Minister Efkan Ala said the dead included 19 foreigners. Dozens from the 230 people initially reported wounded are still hospitalized. Two memorial services for victims were held at the airport, one of them honouring taxi drivers slain in the attack. Five funerals were held elsewhere, including for four members of the Amiri family. Abdulmumin Amiri escaped death because he went to look for a taxi while his relatives watched their luggage. At that time, the bomb went off, he told The Associated Press. I was about four or five metres away. Others werent so lucky. Nilsu Ozmeric wept over the coffin of her fiancee, Jusuf Haznedaroglu, a 32-year-old airport worker who was fatally wounded in the attack while waiting for a bus to go home. The wedding was next week, sobbed his mother, Cervinye Haznedaroglu, as visitors offered condolences. Abdulhekim Bugda, 24, was just a month and a half into his job at Ground Services at Istanbuls Ataturk International Airport when he was killed in the attacks Tuesday night. As the first gunshots rang out, Bugda wrote we are safe on Facebook, reassuring friends and family. Then in the morning we heard he was in critical condition at the airport, friend Adil Batur told reporters. We arrived at the Bakirkoy State Hospital and learned he had passed. Translator Ertan An, 39, arrived at Istanbuls Ataturk International Airport on Tuesday night to send off a five-person tour group from Uzbekistan when the bombings and gunfire hit. He left behind a child and a wife six months into her next pregnancy. Ans funeral was held at a cemevi, the house of worship for Turkeys Alevite religious minority in the Pertek district of eastern Tunceli province. Ercan Sebat of Turkey had loved to draw since childhood. Working with a charcoal pencil, Sebat even held several exhibitions. But the 41-year-olds talent was snuffed out along with his life in the attacks Tuesday night at Istanbuls Ataturk Airport. On Thursday, his mother Rukiye could not contain her grief. Theyve torn out my lungs, she wailed at her sons funeral in Istanbul. They tore to pieces my rose of a son, they dashed my spirit! Sebat had worked as a passenger services officer at the international airports Ground Services division for nearly two years. His brother Ertugrul also wept Thursday while hugging Ercans coffin, which was draped in a Turkish flag. His father, Mahmut, was rushed to hospital after growing faint at the service. In Paris, Deputy Mayor Bruno Julliard said the Eiffel Tower would be illuminated in the red and white colours of the Turkish flag to honour the victims in Istanbul and as a reminder of the unbreakable support of his city. Unconfirmed details of the attack flooded Turkish media. The private Dogan news agency said the Russian attacker had entered the country one month ago and left his passport in a house the men had rented in the neighbourhood of Fatih. The Karar newspaper, quoting police sources, said the three attackers were part of a seven-member cell that entered Turkey on May 25. The assailants raised suspicions of airport security on the day of the attack because they wore winter jackets on a summer day, media reported. Turkish media also praised police officer Yasin Duma as a hero. He was wounded in an exchange of gunfire with one of the attackers and reportedly saved many lives by shouting, Bomb! and alerting others to get away. Turkeys interior minister said the explosives were a mix of RDX, TNT and PETN that were manufactured. That combination is military-grade, raising the question of how the attackers obtained the bombs, said Jimmie Oxley, a chemist and explosives expert at the University of Rhode Island. The Dogan news agency broadcast video of the Istanbul police raids showing a special forces team carrying what appeared to be a steel shield to protect it as it entered a building. In separate police operations, nine suspects believed to be linked to the IS group were also detained in the coastal city of Izmir. It was not clear if the suspects had any links to the airport attack. The Izmir raids unfolded simultaneously in the neighbourhoods of Konak, Bucak, Karabaglar and Bornova, according to the Anadolu Agency. Police seized three hunting rifles and documents relating to Daesh. The report said the suspects were in contact with Daesh militants in Syria and were engaged in activities that were in line with the organizations aims and interests, including providing financial sources, recruits and logistical support. On June 25, security forces killed two suspected Daesh militants trying to cross the border illegally after they ignored orders to stop, local media reported. One of the two militants was wanted on suspicion that he was planning a suicide attack in Ankara or the southern city of Adana, Anadolu said. More on thestar.com: Istanbul attack victims reflect citys international nature In photos: Turkey mourns day after Istanbul airport attacks Read more about: SHARE: INDIANAPOLISA federal judge blocked an Indiana law Thursday that would have banned abortions sought because of a fetuss genetic abnormalities, saying that the state does not have the authority to limit a womans reasons for ending a pregnancy. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt granted a preliminary injunction sought by Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky, which argued that the law was unconstitutional and violated womens privacy rights. The law was set to take effect Friday. North Dakota is the only other state that prohibits abortions because of genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome or because of the race, gender or ancestry of a fetus. The judges action, which is temporary, arose from a lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood and the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana. That case can still proceed. Pratt said the Indiana law would go against U.S. Supreme Court rulings that have declared states may not prohibit a woman from seeking an abortion before a fetus is able to live outside the womb. She also said the state had not cited any exceptions to that standard. This is unsurprising given that it is a womans right to choose an abortion that is protected, which, of course, leaves no room for the state to examine the basis or bases upon which a woman makes her choice, Pratt wrote. The lawsuit also challenges the laws provision requiring that aborted fetuses be buried or cremated. Planned Parenthood currently disposes of remains by incineration, as with other medical tissue. Pratts ruling blocks the burial or cremation requirement from taking effect. Republican Gov. Mike Pence signed the new law in March after it was approved by Indianas GOP-dominated Legislature. The measure was approved despite objections from many female legislators, including Republicans, who said it went too far. The lawsuit was filed in April, and Pratt heard arguments from both sides on June 14. During that hearing, Indiana Solicitor General Thomas Fisher argued that Indianas law was a response to DNA testing advances that permit fetuses to be screened for genetic defects or to determine their gender. He said the state has an interest in preventing discrimination against fetuses based on such test results. Messages seeking comment from Pence and Republican legislative leaders were not immediately returned. A prominent Indiana anti-abortion group urged the state to appeal Pratts decision. Today a federal judge denied the civil rights of unborn children, then proceeded to equate aborted children to common medical waste by blocking dignified disposal, Indiana Right to Life President Mike Fichter said. This ruling is an appalling human rights injustice. The state attorney generals office said it would review Pratts decision before deciding how to proceed. Micah Clark, executive director of the anti-abortion American Family Association of Indiana, said he wasnt entirely surprised by the judges ruling. Clark said unlike other laws that set parameters on how abortions can be performed, Indianas law would have banned abortions sought for certain reasons. We knew we were probably pushing the envelope a little bit, but felt like we were on good legal grounds, Clark said. Pratt, who was nominated as a judge by President Barack Obama in 2010, blocked an Indiana law from taking effect in June 2011 that would have prohibited entities that perform abortions from obtaining state funding. Her order became permanent in 2013 after the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear Indianas appeal in the case. Indiana had sought to prevent Medicaid enrollees from accessing health care at clinics operated by Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky because the organization provides abortions. Indiana University has filed a separate federal lawsuit challenging a section of the new law making it a crime to sell or acquire fetal issue. The school argues the provision would illegally interfere with research by its scientists. Attorneys for IU and the state have agreed to put enforcement on hold until the universitys challenge is resolved. North Dakotas Republican-led Legislature passed a measure in 2013 that blocks abortions based on unwanted gender or a genetic defect. The states sole abortion clinic, the Red River Womens Clinic in Fargo, has said the ban doesnt affect it in part because most genetic abnormalities are not detected until after 16 weeks into a pregnancy, when the clinic stops providing abortions. Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a Texas law that required doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals and forced clinics to meet hospitallike standards. SHARE: BIRMINGHAM, ALA.Born in the ashes of the smouldering South after the Civil War, the Ku Klux Klan died and was reborn before losing the fight against civil rights in the 1960s. Membership dwindled, a unified group fractured, and one-time members went to prison for a string of murderous attacks against black people. Many assumed the group was dead, a white-robed ghost of hate and violence. Yet today, the KKK is still alive and dreams of restoring itself to what it once was: an invisible empire spreading its tentacles throughout society. As it marks 150 years of existence, the Klan is trying to reshape itself for a new era. Klan members still gather by the dozens under starry Southern skies to set fire to crosses in the dead of night, and KKK leaflets have shown up in suburban neighbourhoods from the Deep South to the Northeast in recent months. Perhaps most unwelcome to opponents, some independent Klan organizations say they are merging with larger groups to build strength. We will work on a unified Klan and/or alliance this summer, said Brent Waller, imperial wizard of the United Dixie White Knights in Mississippi. In a series of interviews with The Associated Press, Klan leaders said they feel that U.S. politics are going their way, as a nationalist, us-against-them mentality deepens across the nation. Stopping or limiting immigration a desire of the Klan dating back to the 1920s is more of a cause than ever. And leaders say membership has gone up at the twilight of President Barack Obamas second term in office, though few would provide numbers. Joining the Klan is as easy as filling out an online form provided youre white and Christian. Members can visit an online store to buy one of the Klans trademark white cotton robes for $145, though many splurge on the $165 satin version. While the Klan has terrorized minorities during much of the last century, its leaders now present a public front that is more virulent than violent. Leaders from several different Klan groups all said they have rules against violence aside from self-defence, and even opponents agree the KKK has toned itself down after a string of members went to prison years after the fact for deadly arson attacks, beatings, bombings and shootings. While todays Klan has still been involved in atrocities, there is no way it is as violent as the Klan of the 60s, said Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center, an advocacy group that tracks activity by groups it considers extremist. That does not mean it is some benign group that does not engage in political violence, he added. Historian David Cunningham, author of Klansville, U.S.A.: The Rise and Fall of the Civil Rights-Era Ku Klux Klan, notes that while the Klan generally doesnt openly advocate violence, I do think we have the sort of other model of violence, which is creating a culture that supports the commission of violence in the name of these ideas. Klan leaders told the AP that most of todays groups remain small and operate independently, kept apart by disagreements over such issues as whether to associate with neo-Nazis, hold public rallies or wear the KKKs trademark robes in colours other than white. So-called traditional Klan groups avoid public displays and practice rituals dating back a century; others post web videos dedicated to preaching against racial diversity and warning of a coming white genocide. Women are voting members in some groups, but not in others. Some leaders will not speak openly with the media but others do, articulating ambitious plans that include quietly building political strength. Some groups hold annual conventions, just like civic clubs. Members gather in meeting rooms to discuss strategies that include electing Klan members to local political offices and recruiting new blood through the internet. Its impossible to say how many members the Klan counts today since groups dont reveal that information, but leaders claim adherents in the thousands among scores of local groups called Klaverns. Waller said his group is growing, as did Chris Barker, imperial wizard of the Loyal White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan in Eden, North Carolina. Most Klan groups I talk to could hold a meeting in the bathroom in McDonalds, Barker said. As for his Klavern, he said, Right now, Im close to 3,800 members in my group alone. The Anti-Defamation League, the Jewish protection group that monitors Klan activity, describes Barkers Loyal White Knights as the most active Klan group today, but estimates it has no more than 200 members total. The ADL puts total Klan membership nationwide at around 3,000. The Alabama-based SPLC says theres no evidence the Klan is returning to the strength of its heyday. It estimates the Klan has about 190 chapters nationally with no more than 6,000 members total, which would be a mere shadow of its estimated 2 million to 5 million members in the 1920s. The idea of unifying the Klan like it was in the 20s is a persistent dream of the Klan, but its not happening, Potok said. Formed just months after the end of the Civil War by six former Confederate officers in Pulaski, Tennessee, the Klan originally seemed more like a college fraternity with ceremonial robes and odd titles for its officers. But soon, freed blacks were being terrorized, and the Klan was blamed. Hundreds of people were assaulted or killed within the span of a few years as whites tried to regain control of the defeated Confederacy. Congress effectively outlawed the Klan in 1871, leading to martial law in some places and thousands of arrests, and the group died. The Klan seemed relegated to history until World War I, when it was resurrected. It grew as waves of immigrants arrived aboard ships from Europe and elsewhere, and grew more as the NAACP challenged Jim Crow laws in the South in the 1920s. Millions joined, including community leaders like bankers and lawyers. That momentum declined, and best estimates place Klan membership at about 40,000 by the mid-60s, the height of the civil rights movement. Klan members were convicted of using murder as a weapon against equality in states including Mississippi and Alabama, where one Klansman remains imprisoned for planting the bomb that killed four black girls in a Birmingham church in 1963. Cunningham, the historian, said the Klan dwindled to nearly nothing during the 1970s and 80s, when the SPLC sued the Alabama-based United Klans of America over the 1981 murder of Michael Donald, a black man whose beaten, slashed body was hanged from a tree. In an odd twist, Donalds mother wound up with the title to the Klans headquarters near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, because the group didnt have the money to pay the $7 million judgment awarded in the SPLC suit. KKK leader Brent Waller was raised in Laurel, Mississippi, in the shadow of the civil rights-era Klan. He has boyhood memories of flaming crosses and of Sam Bowers, a Klan boss who served six years in prison for his role directing the murders of three civil rights workers in 1964, and who later was convicted of killing a civil rights leader in 1966. Rather than a white robe, Waller, 47, wears a snow-white suit and orange tie when in public on Klan business and insists on donning sunglasses in photos to protect his identity. Stopping immigration, not blocking minority rights, is the Klans No. 1 issue today, Waller said. His group operates by the KKK rule book called the Kloran, which was first published in 1915. Various versions of the book are now online, and an edition posted by the University of Wisconsin library states in part: We shall ever be true in the faithful maintenance of White Supremacy and will strenuously oppose any compromise thereof in any and all things. The current hot-button issue for Klan members fighting immigration and closing U.S. borders is one of the most talked-about topics in the presidential election. Klan leaders say Donald Trumps immigration position and his ascendancy in the GOP are signs things are going their way. You know, we began 40 years ago saying we need to build a wall, Arkansas-based Klan leader Thomas Robb said. Years ago, the group Robb heads near Harrison, Arkansas, changed its name from the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan to the Knights Party USA, mainly to get away from the stigma associated with the Klan name. It now presents itself as more of a political or Christian entity. There is a lot of baggage with the name, said Rachel Pendergraft, Robbs daughter, who leads the group with him. You say the name KKK and a lot of people have a narrative in their minds of what it is about, what it does. The name resonates with people, whether it is good or whether it is bad. Despite trying to rebrand itself in many ways, 150 years later, the Klan has not stepped away from burning crosses, though it rarely does so in public. Instead, the lightings, as members call them, are held on private property away from law enforcement and demonstrators. In April, Klan members and other white supremacists held two rallies on the same warm Saturday in Georgia. As the sun set, about 60 robed Klan members and others holding flaming torches gathered in a huge circle in a field in northwest Georgia to set a cross and Nazi swastika afire. White power! they chanted in unison. Death to the ungodly! Death to our enemies! SHARE: ISTANBUL As the death toll from the Istanbul airport attack rose Thursday to 44, a senior Turkish official said the three suicide bombers who carried it out were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and police raided neighbourhoods for suspects linked to Daesh. Turkish authorities have said all information suggested the Tuesday night attack on Ataturk Airport, one of the worlds busiest, was the work of Daesh, which boasted this week of having cells in Turkey, among other countries. The police raided 16 locations in three neighbourhoods on both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul, rounding up 13 people suspected of having links to Daesh, also known as ISIS and ISIL. There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the militant group, which has used Turkey as a crossing point to establish itself in neighbouring Syria and Iraq. Daesh has repeatedly threatened Turkey in its propaganda publications, and the NATO member has blamed the group for several major bombings in the past year in both Ankara and Istanbul. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, appearing at the opening of a suspension bridge in northwestern Turkey with Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, made a vague reference to forces that dont want the country to succeed and are using terrorism. He referred to the separatist Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, the Syrian Kurdish militia YPG and the Islamic State group. They have been let loose against us by the forces who hold their leashes, Erdogan said. The bombs that explode in our country today will tomorrow explode in the hands of those who sent them. A senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because government regulations did not authorize him to talk to the media, said the attackers were from Russia and the Central Asian nations of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. He could not confirm media reports that the Russian was from the restive Dagestan region in the Caucasus Mountains. A medical team was working around the clock to identify the attackers, the official said, noting their bodies had suffered extensive damage. Kyrgyzstans Foreign Ministry denied that an attacker came from that country, saying its representatives had talked to Turkish officials who said the identities were still to be determined. Asked about the possible involvement of a Russian in the attacks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had no information on the issue. There was no comment from Uzbekistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that between 5,000 and 7,000 people from Russia and other nations of the former Soviet Union have joined the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq. Many Muslims from Russias southern region of Chechnya have settled in Turkey since the time of the Chechen separatist wars, and Moscow has repeatedly accused Turkey of failing to co-operate in tracking down suspected terrorists. Turkish state media said the death toll in the attack rose to 44 after a 25-year-old airport worker succumbed to his wounds. Interior Minister Efkan Ala said the dead included 19 foreigners. Dozens from the 230 people initially reported wounded are still hospitalized. Two memorial services for victims were held at the airport, one of them honouring taxi drivers slain in the attack. Five funerals were held elsewhere, including for four members of the Amiri family. Abdulmumin Amiri escaped death because he went to look for a taxi while his relatives watched their luggage. At that time, the bomb went off, he told The Associated Press. I was about four or five meters away. Nilsu Ozmeric wept over the coffin of her fiance, Jusuf Haznedaroglu, a 32-year-old airport worker who was fatally wounded while waiting for a bus to go home. The wedding was next week, sobbed his mother, Cervinye Haznedaroglu, as visitors offered condolences. Unconfirmed details of the attack flooded Turkish media. The private Dogan news agency said the Russian attacker had entered the country one month ago and left his passport in a house the men had rented in the Fatih neighbourhood. The Karar newspaper, quoting police sources, said the attackers were part of a seven-member cell that entered Turkey on May 25. The assailants raised suspicions of airport security on the day of the attack because they wore winter jackets on a summer day, media reported. Turkish media praised police officer Yasin Duma as a hero. He was wounded in an exchange of gunfire with one of the attackers and reportedly saved many lives by shouting, Bomb! and alerting others to get away. Turkeys interior minister said the explosives were a mix of RDX, TNT and PETN that were manufactured. That combination is military-grade, raising the question of how the attackers obtained the bombs, said Jimmie Oxley, a chemist and explosives expert at the University of Rhode Island. The Dogan news agency broadcast video of the police raids, showing a special forces team carrying what appeared to be a steel shield to protect it as it entered a building. Read more about: SHARE: HELSINKI Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to Finland on Friday is expected to focus on cementing ties with its neighbouring Western country amid heightened tensions in the region over sanctions and the Ukraine crisis. Putins trip to the small Nordic country his first since the Ukraine crisis erupted in 2014 comes as Russia has increased military activity in Eastern Europe, with reports of airspace violations. NATO responded with a reinforced presence in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, leading to growing debate in nonaligned Finland and Sweden on whether to join the western alliance. With this visit Moscow can demonstrate that despite attempts by the West and the EU to isolate it, theres a country that will welcome the Russian leader, said Markku Kangaspuro, director of research at the University of Helsinki. And whats more, that country is in the tense Baltic Sea area. Russia, which has complained about NATO encroaching on its sphere of influence, would take a dim view if Finland, with which it shares a 1,300-kilometre border, and Sweden were to join the alliance, says Andrei Kolesnikov, a senior associate at the Carnegie Moscow Centre. The prospect of Finland and Sweden joining NATO has seemed more likely in recent months than at any time since the end of the Cold War, Kolesnikov said. But in the long term, its far from certain that such a move would benefit the two countries, given the inevitable backlash from Russia. That concern of a backlash is strongly present in a recent security policy paper commissioned by the Finnish government and could be why polls in both Finland and Sweden have continued to show a majority against joining the alliance. On Thursday, Putin warned that Russia would take retaliatory measures to counter NATOs military buildup near Russias borders which he said was aimed at undermining military parity that has formed over decades. President Sauli Niinisto, who will host Putin at his summer residence in southwestern Finland, says Finlands security policy document is unlikely to be discussed. But, as the visit comes a week before a NATO security summit which will have security in the Baltic Sea region high on its agenda, regional security is bound to be on the agenda. Niinisto, although head of state of a non-NATO country, has been invited to attend the NATO talks. Niinisto doesnt want to rock the boat. He isnt a proponent of NATO membership and for the sake of stability he doesnt want to even raise such speculation, Kangaspuro said, adding that the two leaders probably will discuss border issues and furthering economic co-operation. Russia used to be Finlands main trading partner, but trade last year dropped more than 30 per cent. Putin, hailing from St. Petersburg near the Finnish border, has visited Finland several times. He came to Niinistos summer residence three years ago on a working visit, and the two leaders last met in Moscow in March, when Putin agreed to halt the flow of illegal migrants through Russia to northern Finnish border crossing points. Putins spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, on Wednesday described the working visit as a regular exchange of opinions . . . with one of our closest partners. Read more about: SHARE: In the aftermath of the massacre in Orlandos Pulse nightclub on Latin Night, there have been many beautiful expressions of love: vigils thousands strong; statements denouncing the interconnected forces of homophobia, transphobia, and racism. But the bullets fired by Omar Mateen have also been cast into agendas of hate. While Mateens motives remain opaque, his act of violence has been used by some to draw clear lines between us and them: lines starkly separating western tolerance from Muslim prejudice, western liberation from Muslim repression. These binary narratives erase centuries of history. Studies of Muslim pasts reveal worlds that do not fit easily into current identity politics and so they have largely been forgotten or made to be forgotten. Before the colonial encounter, many Muslim societies reveal(ed) none of the (modern Wests) fixed, rigid boundaries distinguishing heterosexuality from homosexuality, and almost no sense of deviance from a compelling norm, in the words of Dror Zeevi, a historian of the Ottoman empire. While Muslim legal scholars considered liwat (anal intercourse) a crime, this prohibition was not a condemnation of gay identity. This is because Arab-Islamic culture on the eve of modernity lacked the concept of homosexuality, writes Khaled El-Rouayheb, a professor of Islamic intellectual history at Harvard University, and writings from the period do not evince the same attitude toward all aspects of what we might be inclined to call homosexuality today. For example, the story of the passion of 10th- and 11th-century Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni for another man, Ayaz, became a canonical tale of enduring devotion, recounted alongside well-known fables of female-male love, such as Layla and Majnun. European travellers to Muslim lands were appalled by what they perceived as Muslims permissive attitudes toward sexuality. As one 18th-century French traveller to Ottoman Egypt, C.S. Sonnini, disparagingly remarked, The passion contrary to nature ... constitutes the delight, or, to use a juster term, the infamy of the Egyptians. It is not for the women that their amorous ditties are composed: it is not on them that tender caresses are lavished; far different objects inflame them. Racist representations of Muslims as sexually deviant were used to justify the European colonial project to civilize by force (as similar representations were wielded against the indigenous nations of this land now known as Canada). European powers imposed laws against homosexuality in their Muslim colonies. While the Ottoman empire decriminalized liwat in 1858, British and French authorities implemented legislation criminalizing sodomy or sex against nature in colonies in Asia and Africa. As El-Rouayheb writes, Between the middle of the nineteenth century and the early decades of the twentieth, the prevalent tolerance (for same-sex attraction in Arab and Muslim societies) was eroded, presumably owing at least in part to the adoption of European Victorian attitudes by the new, modern-educated and westernized elite. In many Muslim-majority states today, non-heterosexual sexuality continues to be harshly punished on the basis of colonial laws that remain in force not Islamic law. And so sexuality has once again become a front line in the supposed clash of civilizations between Islam and the West although the battle standards have been transposed, and sexual diversity is now celebrated as a sign of the Wests progressiveness rather than denigrated as a mark of Muslims backwardness. Never mind that reality continues to defy such simplistic dichotomies: Queer Muslims live and love and build communities, even in the face of serious state and religious persecution; while anti-LGBTQ violence thrives in western states that now officially disavow the homophobia they once exported so assiduously around the globe. We are still living in a world where homophobia and transphobia, racism and sexism, intertwine to relegate so many to lower rungs of humanity. (In the United States, for instance, more than 100 anti-LGBTQ bills have been tabled in the past six months, and killings of LGBTQ people disproportionately trans women, queer people of colour, and trans people of colour have surged since 2007.) We are still living in a world where colonialisms complex of oppositional identities heterosexuality versus homosexuality, civilized versus uncivilized, the West versus Islam has become so naturalized that it seems almost impossible to think beyond them. By remembering histories that complicate and challenge our present lines of division, can we imagine futures that are different? Azeezah Kanji is a legal analyst and writer based in Toronto. She received an LLM specializing in Islamic law at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. SHARE: Of the nine so-called Three Amigos summits held since 2005, few have amounted to more than a photo op. Over the past decade, North Americas political leaders have rarely found the shared goals or resolve necessary to make concerted progress on their vast array of interconnected interests. The Harper government, in particular, struggled to get along with our continental neighbours; last years planned summit was cancelled amid tensions with both the United States and Mexico. But if there were any doubts that such meetings could, under the right circumstances, transcend political spectacle and produce meaningful results, Wednesdays summit in Ottawa should quiet them. The climate deal that was the meetings main outcome is an achievement of real consequence. The agreement includes the first-ever trilateral commitment to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas industry. Its ambitious target up to a 45-per-cent reduction over 2012 levels by 2025 is doubly welcome. Methane is a particularly destructive gas, and North America emits a disproportionate amount of it. The continent is responsible for coughing up about 20 per cent of the worlds methane, a gas that traps heat with far greater efficiency than carbon dioxide. By some estimates, methane emissions account for one-fifth of the planets warming. A recent report from six environmental think-tanks across North America argued that methane-reduction is an effective and relatively inexpensive way for the continent to contribute to the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius. In addition, the Three Amigos announced that 50 per cent of North Americas electricity will come from clean power sources by 2025. To meet this goal, the U.S. and Mexico will have to undertake transformations of their power grids that will drastically drive down emissions and create major economic opportunities for Canada. The U.S. currently derives only 32 per cent of its power from hydroelectricity or other renewable sources. Mexico is even farther behind. But Canada, which gets 81 per cent of its power from non-emitting sources, has clean energy to spare. A continent-wide target will almost certainly lead to a dramatic uptick in Canadian energy exports. Moreover, construction of the infrastructure that will allow continental energy-sharing promises to create thousands of jobs. This prospective financial reward for our head-start on clean energy is a useful reminder that good environmental policy and good economic policy are not antithetical. In fact, environmental leadership can bring economic advantage. The current heads of North Americas governments finally seem ready to provide that leadership. As Brian Deese, a senior White House adviser, said in the lead-up to the meeting: We find ourselves now in a moment where the alignment in terms of policy goals and focus on clean energy between our three countries is stronger than it has been in decades. Indeed, as President Barack Obama prepares to leave office, he has put the pursuit of a more ambitious climate policy near the top of his legacy agenda. Meanwhile, both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexicos president, Enrique Pena Nieto, came to power promising a more progressive approach to the environment than their laggardly predecessors. This confluence of interests, which also extends well beyond climate, has already borne fruit and has the potential to bear more. Cooperation pays off, Trudeau said after the summit. Working together beats going alone. But, sadly, the moment may not last long. As Americans weigh whether or not to put a Mexico-baiting demagogue in the White House this November, they might want to consider the power of continental collaboration on display in Ottawa this week and the costly testiness that for too long kept the amigos apart. Read more about: SHARE: Re: No homophobic hate in his church, Letter June 21 No homophobic hate in his church, Letter June 21 Im of Donald Cangianos generation. He is fortunate to have attended very forward looking Christian churches, for the past 81 years, that did not rant that homosexuality was a despicable aberration. Before 1969, same-sex acts were criminal. Did his churches assure parishioners that such a law was a travesty? From the earliest days of Christianity, such intimacy was condemned as contrary to Biblical teaching. It is ironic that Mr. Cangianos letter was printed on the same day the Star headlined the formal apology of the Toronto police for the infamous 1981 bathhouse raids. That heavy-handed response to gay meeting establishments may have been a reflection of the zeitgeist of the times. I dont recall any clergy from Torontos Christian churches expressing outrage at the time. Those righteous stalwarts, and many Torontonians, may have seen the bathhouse scene as dens of iniquity. I was immersed in Catholicism long ago, and never dared question anything spouted from the pulpit. We were taught that homosexual acts were grave sins, intrinsically contrary to natural law, and under no circumstances could they be approved. Ones eternal salvation was at risk. It seems the only intimacy allowed same-sex couples was holding hands. Anything sexual was a grievous mea culpa for the confessional. We were assured that such unnatural urges could be controlled by prayer and self-mortification, much like Nancy Reagans simplistic solution to teens experimenting with drugs, Just say No! My chums, all church-going lads, used derogatory descriptors like homo, fairy, and queer, to describe gay men. It would have blown our minds to know that some Hollywood heart-throbs adored by women, and admired by us, like Rock Hudson, Tab Hunter and Richard Chamberlain, were wisely, in the closet. Their careers would have gone into freefall if the truth be known. Rosie DiManno is correct in castigating the continuing homophobic rhetoric that is heard from some Christian pulpits and Muslim mosques any day of the week. Ill know there is a true change when those two religions each sponsor a float in the stellar Pride Parade. And the long-dead cockles of my Catholic heart might even be warmed if Cardinal Thomas Collins of the Archdiocese of Toronto marched arm-in-arms with jubilant gays. After all, Justin Trudeau, a practicing Catholic and very popular Prime Minister, will be there. Garry Burke, Oro-Medonte SHARE: Editors' pick: Originally published June 30. Apple (AAPL) is credited with inventing the iPhone, iPad and iPod. But that hasn't stopped Thomas Ross from suing the tech giant for $10 billion over a triple-whammy patent infringement. Ross says he is the one who came up with the iPhone, iPad and iPod. Only his version started with a different vowel, the ERD, or Electronic Reading Device. Ross reportedly applied for a patent for the device in November 1992. However, he never paid the fees associated with a patent filing. As a result, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office ruled the patent as abandoned three years later. The iPod debuted in October 2001, followed by the iPhone in 2007 and iPad in 2010. Do you find yourself asking. "What the heck this guy is going to court with Apple over?" Me, too. No patent equals no case, right? I'm not a lawyer, so I don't really know. But it seems hard to fathom that a judge will award this guy anything given that he didn't follow through on his patent plans. That's like thinking about buying land in Orlando before Disney (DIS) moved into town, withdrawing the offer and then suing Disney 24 years later because you thought about putting a theme park there first. Snooze ya lose. Oh yeah, Ross will be representing himself in court. Shares of Apple closed at $95.60 Thursday, up 1.3%. Car rental services and taxi companies have very quickly started to feel the punishing blow being sent their way from ride-hailing services including Uber and Lyft. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em, right? At least, that's what it feels like coming from Hertz Global Holdings (HTZ) . The company has reportedly reach a deal with Uber and Lyft to supply its drivers with vehicles. As Hertz rotates vehicles out of its fleet, it could be what saves the company from what appeared to be its eventual demise. Consumers who didn't want a taxi could opt to catch a ride to the car rental station at the airport, rent a car and drive to their destination. But why do that when you can hail a ride on your phone for a reasonable price? Hertz management has cited ride-hailing companies as a driver behind its sluggish growth, which has also weighed on the stock. Shares are down 22% on the year and 40% over the past 12 months. Drivers will be able to rent mid-sized cars for $180 per week, which comes out to roughly $780 per month. While that's more than a driver would typically pay for their own car (which they need for driving with Uber and Lyft), it includes insurance costs and they aren't on the hook for regular maintenance expenses. Shares of Hertz closed at $11.07 Thursday, up 2.8%. Is Apple mad at Spotify? Because Apple introduced Apple Music, the two are now competitors and at least on Spotify's side, they feel as if Apple isn't playing fair and square. "This latest episode raises serious concerns under both U.S. and E.U. competition law," Spotify's general counsel Horacio Gutierrez said in a letter sent to Apple's general counsel Bruce Sewell. Apple has apparently blocked the app's newest version update, saying that Spotify needs to use its billing system if "Spotify wants to use the app to acquire new customers and sell subscriptions." The main issue is Spotify does not want to give Apple such a big chunk of its revenue pie simply for users going to the app store and signing up through the service in that manner. Rather, Spotify wants users to sign up for the service on its own site and simply use the app as a current paying subscriber. It has to do with how paying customers sign up and whose (Apple or Spotify's) billing system the transaction goes on. If they sign up via Spotify, they collect the revenue. If they sign up through the app stores, a portion of the recurring monthly sale goes to Apple. This article is commentary by an independent contributor. At the time of publication, the author held no positions in the stocks mentioned. Visit Java's famous volcanoes: Krakatau, Merapi, Bromo, Semeru, Ijen and others, crossing Java from west to east. This study and photography trip for a small exclusive group is one of our classic and best tours. Throughout 2016, gas prices nationally averaged $2.07, compared with $2.43 in 2015, $3.36 in 2014 and $3.50 in 2013. (Michael S. Williamson/The Post) Independence Day travel could be some of this decades cheapest, thanks to falling gas prices. They are on track to be at a 13-year low this Fourth of July holiday. As of Thursday, the national average for gasoline was $2.29 a gallon. Thats 48 cents cheaper than last year on the same date and 4 cents cheaper than a month ago. Throughout 2016, prices nationally averaged $2.07, compared with $2.43 in 2015, $3.36 in 2014 and $3.50 in 2013. The drop in price is a reflection of the huge worldwide surplus in crude oil. Production in the United States has jumped as companies used a process called fracking to extract oil from shale, while Iran saw its exports soar with the lifting of economic sanctions after it agreed to reign in its nuclear program. Irans reentry into the global market came as Saudi Arabia and other Persian Gulf region players continued to pump freely as well. The demand for all that oil, however, has not nearly increased at that same rate, as growth in China slowed and business elsewhere around the globe sputtered. Analysts once suggested that prices might level out by the years end, but the United Kingdoms vote to leave the European Union last week has put a damper on those hopes. Crude fell in the New York Mercantile Exchange by 6.5 percent on June 24, the day after to vote totals were announced, to under $48 per barrel, the biggest one-day drop since October. Prices briefly recovered, before falling 3 percent on Thursday to $48.38 a barrel. New factors are pushing down supplies. The United States reported this week a smaller oil yield than forecast, and strikes by Norwegian oil workers and the economic crisis in Venezuela had curbed supplies. Still, production remains relatively robust, and the result is low gas prices. It ranged this week from $1.99 a gallon in South Carolina up to $2.90 in California. Gas prices tend to be higher in the Washington area than the nation as a whole. Within the District, the average on Wednesday was $2.54 a gallon, according to GasBuddy.com, a website that tracks gas prices at 130,000 stations in the United States and Canada. Just over the D.C. border in Bethesda, prices topped $3. Prices were hovering around $2.40 in Silver Spring and $2.30 in Tysons Corner. Gas in Manassas is averaging above $2 and around $2.20 in Annapolis. Its below $2 a gallon in Virginia Beach. The American Automobile Association noted earlier this week that the cheap gas should fuel near-record holiday weekend travel. AAA spokesperson Michael Green said an estimated 36 million Americans are projected to drive 60 or more miles this weekend. Its clear that the cheapest gas prices this year are motivating Americans to travel and experience the 4th of July away from home, Green said. Cheap gas prices can help motivate people to hit the road and travel in ways that maybe didnt happen a few years ago. Barbara Goldsmith, a best-selling writer who chronicled high-society contretemps including the custody dispute over poor little rich girl Gloria Vanderbilt in the 1930s, unveiling the wealthy and famous as often empty and unhappy, died June 26 at her home in New York City. She was 85. The cause was congestive heart failure, said her assistant Jeremy Steinke. Ms. Goldsmith was a founding editor of New York magazine, a contributor to publications including Vanity Fair and the New Yorker and the author of four nonfiction books. Her work combined historical sleuthing and social commentary, and it reflected both her experience and wariness of wealth. A daughter of a moneyed real estate investor, Ms. Goldsmith said she recognized early on the drawbacks, even dangers, of fame. She said that like Vanderbilt the railroad and shipping heiress who became a maven of designer jeans she was scarred by the kidnapping and murder in 1932 of aviator Charles Lindberghs young son. I used to go to bed at night and wait for the sound of the ladder plopping against my bedroom window, she once told the New York Times. Ive since found that a lot of people who grew up during the Depression had these same fears, because of the Lindbergh babys kidnapping. Ms. Goldsmith in 1998. (Jack Manning/The New York Times) Ms. Goldsmith became fascinated by the Vanderbilt case four decades after the fact, while researching her first book, The Straw Man (1975), a novel that turns on the contested estate of a New York art collector. Working in a library, she stumbled upon 8,000 pages of court transcripts from the 1934 custody challenge that made 10-year-old Vanderbilt one of the most famous children in the United States. The case involved the girls widowed mother, Gloria Morgan Vanderbilt, and an aunt, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, who ultimately obtained custody. Their war over little Gloria, which riveted Depression-era Americans with lurid revelations of the familys dissolution, became the subject of Ms. Goldsmiths best-selling volume Little Gloria . . . Happy at Last (1980). Ms. Goldsmith said that she trekked to seven countries for the book and interviewed 300 sources, although not Gloria Vanderbilt, who declined to participate. The book became a 1982 TV miniseries. Little Gloria is like a Bruegel canvas, teeming with characters and events all moving in different directions, Brigitte Weeks, a Washington Post editor, wrote in a review of the volume. But even though she gives us a ten-course banquet of Vanderbilts and Whitneys, we are left hard to believe wanting more. In her research, Ms. Goldsmith learned that Cornelius Vanderbilt, the familys shipping and railroad magnate, had once advised aspiring investors to do as I do, consult the spirits! He was confident that his stock was on the rise, he had remarked, because a Mrs. Woodhull said so in a trance. Intrigued by the reference, Ms. Goldsmith spent a decade researching the life of Victoria Woodhull, a fortuneteller and suffragette who in 1872 launched a quixotic campaign as the first woman to run for president. The result of Ms. Goldsmiths study was the book Other Powers: The Age of Suffrage, Spiritualism and the Scandalous Victoria Woodhull (1998). In 1987, Ms. Goldsmith published Johnson v. Johnson, an account of the fight over the estate of J. Seward Johnson, an heir to the riches his family made in the pharmaceutical business. After his death in 1983, his children challenged his will, which left nearly his entire $500 million estate to his third wife, Barbara Piasecka, a Polish immigrant four decades his junior who had been one of their domestics. The trial, which Ms. Goldsmith covered for Vanity Fair, became a cause celebre and ended with an out-of-court settlement. Ive come to view it as a contest rooted in emotional issues, she wrote, feelings of unrequited love, unfinished business, denial, and loss of honor. J. Seward Johnsons behavior toward his children his patterns of rejection and divisiveness ultimately led them into a courtroom seeking to find what they had never had from him: recognition, a sense of worthiness, and a measure of a fathers love. Perhaps restitution for this loss came to be equated with money. But money was all that was left. Barbara Joan Lubin was born in New York City on May 18, 1931. She graduated in 1953 from Wellesley College in Massachusetts and began her career profiling celebrities for Womans Home Companion and the New York Herald Tribune. When the latter was shuttered in the 1960s, she provided seed money to spin off the newspapers Sunday supplement and establish New York magazine. In 1968, the magazines inaugural year, Ms. Goldsmith penned a profile of the Andy Warhol model Viva. In the article, titled La Dolce Viva, the woman was shown in haunting nude images by photographer Diane Arbus and revealed by Ms. Goldsmith as penniless and addled by drugs. Before running the article, which was guaranteed to roil advertisers with its explicit nature, the editor, Clay Felker, showed it to Tom Wolfe, another of the magazines writers. Wolfe was enthralled and declared to Felker, I dont see how you can not run it. As predicted, advertisers rebelled, but the episode became famous in the magazines history. Ms. Goldsmiths most recent book was Obsessive Genius: The Inner World of Marie Curie (2005), a biography of the Polish-born physicist who became the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize. Ms. Goldsmiths experience in historical archives, where she handled papers that crumbled at the touch, inspired her campaign to persuade private and government publishers to print books and documents on acid-free paper. Her marriages to C. Gerald Goldsmith, an investment banker, and Frank Perry, a filmmaker, ended in divorce. Survivors include three children from her first marriage, Andrew Goldsmith of Beverly Hills, Calif., Alice Elgart of New York City and John Goldsmith of Santa Monica, Calif.; and six grandchildren. Ms. Goldsmith described herself foremost as a social historian. The reason I write books, she told the Times, is an obsession to see that our society straightens out. We live in a world that is interested only in images and not reality, and I want to shatter those images real heroes lead very tough, ascetic lives. But Americans are beginning to want to see behind these images, and I want to fight for this. Hillary Clinton recently made a minor flub on womens issues. In an article in New York magazine, when asked what books she likes, the candidate said that these days, shes into easier things to read. I like a lot of women authors, novels about women, mysteries where a woman is the protagonist. Jacqueline Winspear and Donna Leon were two authors she cited, womens cozy mystery writers whose work Clinton said she finds relaxing. Of course Clinton is no cinnamon-scented Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, the articles author, Rebecca Traister, notes. But that is, indeed, the patronizing image that bedevils female readers of cozy mysteries. The idea that these writers and womens mysteries in general are easier to read sounds a tad trivializing. "Journey to Munich" by Jacqueline Winspear (Harper) Its hip to read hard-boileds novels by the likes of Dashiell Hammett and Lawrence Block, where the lone-wolf detective walks the mean streets of the city, facing down crooks and femmes fatales. Its often regarded as merely quaint, however, to admit a liking for the milder-mannered cozies, tales of amateur detectives like Charlaine Harriss Aurora Teagarden, a librarian turned real estate agent whos forever stumbling on foul deeds in her small town. [Why does Hillary Clinton say books by and about women make for easier reading?] I confess, even as a longtime critic who knows the hidden depths of the cozy genre, Ive been occasionally guilty of harboring Tiggy-Winkle thoughts when I hear from mystery readers who rhapsodize at length about Maud Silver books or reruns of Murder, She Wrote. Why do women often feel abashed about reading this domesticated kind of detective fiction chiefly written by and about women whereas those fans (male and female) of more violent thrillers by, say, Lee Child or David Baldacci never seem to feel the need to apologize? Its always been okay for presidents, like Jack Kennedy, to seek escape in something like the James Bond books, techno-heavy tales of all manner of conquest. Many mystery lovers will remember that Bill Clinton proudly flaunted his fondness for action-packed thrillers. Michael Connelly, Walter Mosley, Sara Paretsky and his old Georgetown classmate, Thomas Caplan, were (and presumably still are) particular favorites. Hillary Clinton has also said she reads some more action-packed books, such as Daniel Silvas Gabriel Allon series (as well as works by Laura Hillenbrand, Walter Isaacson, Barbara Kingsolver and Alice Walker), but her stated fondness for mysteries by and about women and in particular cozy series such as the Maisie Dobbs books subtly undermines her credentials as a potential commander in chief. Such tastes underscore that shes a woman in late middle age who needs a dose of restorative reading now and again. Somehow, its disconcerting to imagine Hillary Clinton closing out a hard day at the Oval Office with a Miss Marple mystery tucked under her arm especially when she herself seems gently apologetic about such reading. But that shouldnt be so. One thing I know about mysteries even the coziest of cozy mysteries is that whether or not theyre easier reading, the detectives who star in them never take it easy. Like all mysteries, cozies are, deep down, novels that celebrate hard work. For instance, Jacqueline Winspears Maisie Dobbs is a British psychologist, private investigator and a nurse whose ministrations have taken her from the World War I field hospitals of France to those of the Spanish Civil War. The Maisie Dobbs series demonstrates the toll that relentless caretaking took on those women who had to piece together the bodies and minds of the soldiers who survived. In her latest outing, Journey to Munich, Maisie travels undercover to Nazi Germany to extract a British subject whose safe return is crucial to Britains wartime future. That assignment should be a relief from tying tourniquets and treating bedsores. [In mysteries, does the trail grow cold when the detective grows old?] "Killer Look" by Linda Fairstein (credit: Dutton) (Dutton ) The same 24/7 schedule is shouldered by Linda Fairsteins Alex Cooper, who works as a Manhattan assistant D.A. in the Sex Crimes Unit. In Killer Look, her latest adventure, Alex, whos on leave from the D.A.s office while shes recuperating from a brutal kidnapping, gets involved in a murder case that has her racing from the Garment District to the Metropolitan Museum with barely a lunch break. Plugging her way through the alphabet, Sue Graftons Kinsey Millhone scratches out a living for herself as a private investigator, tirelessly relying on her eyes, wits and fleet feet to solve cases and pay the bills. And even that relatively sheltered, well-to-do teenager Nancy Drew (whom Hillary has said she avidly read as a girl) barely indulges in any downtime to sample housekeeper Hannah Gruens famed chicken salad or acknowledge poor Ned Nickersons flirtations. Nancy is forever dashing off through the streets of River Heights and its environs, busting up crime syndicates and restoring stolen inheritances to widows and orphans. The omniscient narrator of the Nancy Drew books is never shy about celebrating our female sleuths passion and accomplishments: Many a problem which had baffled professional mystery-solvers had been cleared up by her keen mind, notes the 1933 novel Password to Larkspur Lane. Beneath the murder and mayhem, all mystery stories are utopian fantasies about work work thats autonomous, personally fulfilling and socially useful; work thats equally open to women and men because, especially in the cozies, crime-solving is less a matter of brawn than brainpower. No wonder Hillary Clinton, like so many other hard-working women (and even, perhaps, some men), loves mysteries by and about women. Rather than implicitly apologizing for enjoying these tales of toil and female empowerment, Clinton might take a page from her husband, and profess her special love for female suspense of all types with pride. As Nancy Drew and her sisterhood of sleuths remind us, its no crime to love mysteries, particularly those that feature women using their smarts to set the world right. Maureen Corrigan is the book critic for the NPR program Fresh Air and teaches literature at Georgetown University. Michael Dirda is on vacation. A British couple get embroiled with a Russian oligarch and high-profile money launderer while on holiday in Marrakech, Morocco. ( / Roadside Attractions) Our Kind of Traitor boasts a series of onscreen titles that signal a certain kind of thriller one that hops from Moscow to Marrakesh to London to Paris to Bern to the French Alps with the clockwork regularity of a James Bond film. But the hero of this dutiful yet effective adaptation of a 2010 John le Carre novel is no gunslinging international man of mystery. Rather, he is a mild-mannered British professor of poetry with a soft spot for the bullied and a notable lack of firearms training. When the aptly named Perry Makepeace (Ewan McGregor) finally does get hold of a pistol, only toward the end of the film, he picks it up like it smells funny. The fact that the person handing it to him a loudly effusive, tattooed Russian thug on the lam named Dima is played by Stellan Skarsgard contributes significantly to the films pleasures. Skarsgards accent might not be utterly convincing, but he seems to be having so much fun with the part of a money launderer for the mob who has handled as many handguns as deposit slips that its easy to forgive a slippery vowel or two. British poetry professor Perry Makepeace (Ewan McGregor), left, decides to assist an on-the-outs Russian mobster (Stellan Skarsgard) with a story to sell in Our Kind of Traitor. (Jaap Buitendijk/Roadside Attractions) Naomie Harris and McGregor play the vacationing couple at the center of the film. (Jaap Buitendijk/Roadside Attractions) The strange alliance between Perry and Dima begins in Morocco, where the Russian has befriended the vacationing Perry and his girlfriend, Gail (Naomie Harris of Skyfall and Spectre), handing the academic a thumbdrive with instructions to turn it over to MI6, the British intelligence agency, when the couple gets home. It seems that Dima who has been marked for a bloody purge by his new boss (Grigoriy Dobrygin) is seeking asylum for himself and family, in exchange for information linking a high-ranking British official named Longrigg (Jeremy Northam) to the Russian mafia. Perrys willingness to do what most others would say heck no to speaks more to his weakness than his bravery. It also imparts a slight whiff of preposterousness that the film, for the most part, manages to outrun. In keeping with the films brisk pace, it isnt long before Perry has made it his private mission to help Dima in ways that go far beyond the Russians original request. An MI6 agent (Damian Lewis) begins to assist Perry, motivated by his own personal vendetta against Longrigg. Director Susanna White, who was nominated for Emmy Awards for the television miniseries Jane Eyre and Generation Kill, keeps the tension just taut enough, as Russian hoodlums pursue Dima and his family and the British bureaucracy scrambles to obtain passports for them. No, theres nothing earth-shaking about Traitor. No topical reverberations or thorny moral quandaries. Just a respectful appreciation for the old-fashioned political thriller, in an adaptation by screenwriter Hossein Amini (Drive) that knows how to get the job done. Theres little of the poetry that Perry teaches in the script, but the storys mechanics are solid. Passengers at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago wait in line to be screened at a checkpoint. Long waiting times are a prime reason why some people are choosing to just stay home this summer. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) Mad about long lines? Take a number. More than 1 in 5 Americans will cancel their summer travel plans or find other means of transportation because of long airport lines, according to a recent study by the U.S. Travel Association (USTA), a trade group. The lines are lengthening for a number of reasons, including a seasonal influx of air travelers, heightened terrorism concerns and staffing shortages at the Transportation Security Administration. The prospect of facing a crowd at the airport is endlessly frustrating to travelers like Annette Kleier, a retired accountant from Louisville. She has watched the finger-pointing between the TSA and Congress over who is to blame for the lines, while other guilty parties hardly get a mention. Kleier is so weary of the blame game playing out in the media (and, ahem, in stories like this) that she echoes the USTAs findings: You can always stay home. Vacationers who havent opted to ground themselves this summer are coping with lines in one of two ways devising clever workarounds or avoiding them altogether. And, by and large, its working. Kleier recently watched a family of five board a flight to Orlando, and she thinks she has found one overlooked culprit: the airlines. All their luggage was being carried on, she says. My first thought was, I was glad I was in front of them not behind them. My second thought was, Of course they had to carry all that. Airfare for a family of five was likely $1,500. Baggage fees average about $30 per bag, so add another $300 to that. Baggage fees translate into 27 percent more carry-on bags, according to the TSA. Two U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson have asked airlines to temporarily stop charging luggage fees to ease the congestion. So far, theyve refused. The reason is obvious: Airlines collected $3.8 billion in luggage fees in 2015, statistics from the U.S. Transportation Department show. Passengers are irritated by the standoff. Being patient and polite is not going to change anything, says Stephen Anderson, a frequent traveler who works as a market analyst for a nonprofit professional organization based in Bellingham, Wash. Is it too much to ask our elected representatives to do their jobs and address such issues? Actually, no. Anderson had a particular request: Publish the names and email addresses of the people who can make a difference. (No problem. Try Johnson at jeh.johnson@dhs.gov or TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger at peter.neffenger@dhs.gov.) In the meantime,travelers are doubling down on their time-saving strategies. Raghu Murali, a frequent air traveler based in Edison, N.J., decided to travel anyway, and on Memorial Day weekend, no less. But as an experienced road warrior, he knew where the lines were to be found. He took a transcontinental flight the Thursday before the holiday to avoid a crush of vacationers. I was a management consultant for many years, logging in 100-plus nights a year at hotels, he says. So Ive found a number of small tricks over time that really help me while traveling. His first stop in Los Angeles with his two kids, ages 6 and 8, was a largely lineless Universal Studios. Saturday through Monday are peak times, he notes. And to avoid the bumper-to-bumper Memorial Day traffic in Southern California, he drove to San Diego at night, which shaved hours off his transit time. You dont have to be an expert to get through any line faster. Sometimes, all it takes is a little common sense. But if you were traveling this Memorial Day weekend, you probably know thats often in short supply. Travel businesses are doing their best to prevent congestion by offering customers important, necessary reminders. Katherine Dayton, the director of Visions Service Adventures, a tour operator that offers community-service programs for high school and middle school students, based in Bozeman, Mont., is overlooking no detail. Many wait until the last minute to provide important documentation, including passports, she says. This can create greater waiting and lines during the programs if we dont have all the ducks lined up in advance. If you want to avoid summer lines, no matter where, it helps to consult an expert. Thats according to Scott Koepf, a senior vice president of sales at Avoya Travel, a consortium of independent travel agents. Using an agent can help travelers navigate and prepare for expected delays when traveling, he says. Travel agents have access to the most up-to-date information on what airlines, cruise lines, hotels and transportation companies are doing, including which ones are likely to have the longest lines. Theyll also tell you that if you fly often, you should consider applying for Global Entry, the governments trusted traveler program, which also gives you access to the faster TSA PreCheck lines. Oh, and pack less. A lot less. Carry-on luggage has a lot to do with the wait time, so checking baggage will help with the security lines, Koepf says. Others are reading stories like this and making their vacation a staycation. The lost travel spending will total $4.3 billion for the three-month summer peak season, according to the USTA study. To put these figures in perspective, the USTA says, the longer airport lines are costing more than 12,000 jobs every month. Unfortunately, were well past the point when any single measure is going to provide enough relief to completely save the summer travel season, USTA President Roger Dow said. Dow may be right, but with just a few strategies you can avoid most of this summers longest lines. And that may be a good enough reason to stick with your summer plans. Elliott is a consumer advocate, journalist and co-founder of the advocacy group Travelers United. Email him at chris@elliott.org. More from Travel: Travel Guide Ski Guide Caribbean Guide Pop. Pop, pop, pop. Pop. The noise continued for less than minute, a Hill East resident said. She dropped to the floor and hid in a bathroom. On Sunday morning, she counted the crime-scene cones that marked the shell casings the barrage of gunfire left behind. There were 35, she said. [Shooting wounds woman, damages cars near Capitol Hill] The woman, who did not want to give her name for fear of being targeted, gathered with neighbors at St. Coletta of Greater Washington Wednesday night. Residents of the Hill East neighborhood, just east of Capitol Hill, told a panel of District officials and Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier about their concerns about the most recent violent incident. One person was wounded and at least three cars were damaged when the gunfire broke out about 2:20 a.m. near 17th Street and Independence Avenue SE, about a mile and a half east of the Capitol. Some residents feared that it could be a sign of more violence to come this summer. The incident began when a driver paused at the intersection to speak with a group of people, when a second car pulled up. There was an argument and then gunfire. Anger and frustration was palpable at the meeting, causing one resident to walk out. The police want the community to do their job and its not fair, said the neighbor, who told authorities that officers allowed a large group of people to hang out in an alley just before the shooting. Whether youre scared of them or not, you took the oath of office to protect; do your damn job. [How an accused rapist kept getting second chances from the D.C. justice system] Lanier told residents that her officers do their duty. We monitor 50 of what we consider repeat violent gun offenders in the city, she said. Then she asked residents to guess how many times those same offenders were arrested last year. After a few tries, Lanier responded: 857. Why are they not in jail? asked Denise Rucker Krepp, the advisory neighborhood commissioner for Hill East. She repeated her question. My cops ask me that everyday, Lanier said. I have to get them to get back up and back on the street to do it all over again. [Neighborhood activist sues Justice Department over obtaining conviction rates] Krepp is suing the U.S. Justice Department in federal court to seek information on what happens to the thousands of people arrested each year. After the meeting, she said what Lanier told neighbors was mind-blowing. She added: I think this is a sign that we in this country do not know what the judicial system looks like. If you have the police chief for Washington, D.C., saying at a public meeting the judicial system is broken, ring-a-ding-ding, its happening everywhere else. A routine safety inspection was mistaken for an active shooter situation at Joint Base Andrews on June 29 around 9 a.m., prompting emergency responders to flood onto the base. A sweep of the facility was conducted and it re-opened later that day. (WUSA9) A routine safety inspection was mistaken for an active shooter situation at Joint Base Andrews on June 29 around 9 a.m., prompting emergency responders to flood onto the base. A sweep of the facility was conducted and it re-opened later that day. (WUSA9) Someone mistook a routine safety inspection for an active shooter situation at Joint Base Andrews on Thursday morning, prompting tense moments and a lockdown of the sprawling facility in Prince Georges County, Md., base officials said. The base, which is home to Air Force One and thousands of military personnel, was briefly sent into confusion. Law enforcement streamed across the facility, cable news carried live updates on the incident, and a trip from the base by Vice President Biden was delayed. The person reported the active shooter situation at about 9 a.m., after misidentifying security forces who were conducting a routine inspection of the Malcolm Grow medical facility as a potential threat, the officials said. Officials would not say whether the security team was armed. The base sent out an order to shelter in place a short time later. Authorities could be seen moving across the campus in black SUVs and later evacuating people from the medical facility. One person who works at the base said he received an email that told employees to remain locked in their offices and read: This is a real-world event. Active shooter. 1 of 9 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad What it looked like at Joint Base Andrews during the lockdown View Photos Following an earlier report of an active shooter, the lockdown has mostly been lifted at Joint Base Andrews. Caption Following an earlier report of an active shooter, the lockdown has mostly been lifted at Joint Base Andrews. June 30, 2016 Police and military personnel gather at one of Joint Base Andrewss gates following a report of an active shooter. Michael Reynolds/European Pressphoto Agency Wait 1 second to continue. The incident came two days after a terrorist attack in Istanbul and a couple of weeks after the nations worst mass shooting in Orlando, at a time when the nation is on edge. Heightened tensions nowadays mean everyone is very vigilant, said Maj. Jaime Davis, a Defense Department spokesman. We dont want people to not say anything if they see something, but obviously there needs to be clarity of what is being seen and said. The situation was further confused because the base was scheduled to conduct a no notice active shooter drill in the late morning on the opposite side of the campus, which is about 14 miles from downtown Washington, the base said. Officials said the drill and the initial report were not linked. By 10:40 a.m., a sweep of the facility had been completed and authorities gave the base an all clear. The Grow building remained on lockdown after the general lockdown was lifted, but authorities determined there was no threat to the base. Fortunately, this was not a life-threatening situation, Col. Brad Hoagland, the base commander, said in a statement. We take all threats seriously and reacted to ensure the security of those on the base. A retired Navy commander, who declined to be identified, said he arrived shortly before 8 a.m. to the third floor of the medical center for an exam. He was initially told that a drill was planned, but then staff arrived with news that there could be a real emergency. One of the medical staff members came in and said we have a real-world event and we would like you to switch rooms, the retired officer said. There were nine of us. They took us to a room and they locked the door. I felt pretty safe. The officer said the group stayed in the room for about an hour and a half. Afterward, the Rev. Aaron Harley, pastor of Redemption Ministries in Temple Hills, was among those gathered at the McDonalds at the front gate of Andrews. Im just glad that it wasnt real, he said. As pastors, we have to do the funerals, we have to do the consoling, and these incidents are serious. There is just too much killing. Joint Base Andrews is a combined Navy and Air Force base. Air Force One landed at Andrews on Wednesday night, bringing President Obama home from a trip to Canada. According to a White House pool report, the president deplaned at 9:15 p.m. and stepped aboard Marine One a moment later. Last month, the base was put on lockdown after a woman walked into the visitors center and said she had a bomb strapped to her chest. The incident turned out to be a hoax, and the base was reopened after about 90 minutes. Matt Zapotosky, Mark Berman, Amanda Finnegan, Peter Hermann, Thomas Gibbons-Neff and Josh Freedom du Lac contributed to this report. Supporters of D.C. statehood call for an end to taxation without representation in a protest outside the U.S. Capitol in April. (Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA) New Columbia? Ewww Columbia is what most folks think of that as the name for our unions 51st state. No. No. No. You can quote me as NO on that, said Ayanna Williams, who is 38, a born-and-raised D.C. resident who is passionately against the name proposed for the District, should it become a state. That doesnt represent anything about the neighborhood, the place my great-grandparents migrated to, Williams told me. She is a daughter of Old D.C., fiercely determined to keep the rich history of the Districts earliest residents especially the African Americans who helped build our nations capital in its future. But shes also a proud citizen of the New D.C., buying bagels on H Street NE on the way to her job at the Joy of Motion Dance Center. The voting rights that would come with statehood? Williams is all for that. And heads at the bagel shop all nodded vigorously in agreement. There seems to be a new vim in the air about this latest push for D.C. statehood. Maybe its the worldwide political atmosphere, inspired by the Brexit vote for independence from the European Union? Or Scotlands renewed move for independence from the United Kingdom? Or maybe its all the talk of Texit Texas finally making good on secession threats that clears the path for the District to easily become a state. (See, we wouldnt even have to change the American flag!) Maybe theres an urge in New D.C. to get all Alexander Hamilton (the musical) about this, put on frock coats and knee britches and sing: Were just like our country Were young, scrappy and hungry and Were not throwing away our shot. In an homage to the spirit of the Founding Fathers that Lin-Manuel Miranda has made so cool, the urge to rename our nations capital may lean back to our beginnings. We did it with New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, the Carolinas, the Virginias, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, after all, those nods to the lands and rulers our founders left behind. So why wouldnt honoring a slave-trading, disease-carrying explorer who got lost looking for Asia and basically established the cruise ship route through the Caribbean not really landing in North America be a worthy person to honor? Yeah. Thats the problem. [People arent fans of New Columbia] New Columbia makes no sense to D.C. expert Matthew Green, an associate professor of politics at Catholic University. Its hard to come up with a name that would honor the citys political, living and symbolic dimensions equally, Green said. Proposals that use the name Frederick Douglass, like Douglass Commonwealth, come close, insofar as he was an important political figure, a prominent member of the citys African American community and a symbol of abolitionism. There are state names that pay tribute to the lands true, original occupants. Mississippi and Michigan were named for the Ojibwe words for the waters in those lands. Alabama came from the Choctaw word for plant cutters. So why not Potomac or Anacostia? West Virginia was supposed to be called Kanawha, for the Indian tribe that used to live there. (Columbia was another possible name in that debate.) Or lets go with something totally made up. Like California. Thats actually the name of a fictional island in a 1500s Spanish novel. And thats about how seriously some of Old D.C. is taking this whole debate. The graying guys at Smokey's Barbershop & Oldies, on H Street since 1966, love the name New Columbia. Sure! Why not? they said, to the sound of eight-inch clipper cuts and old Motown. Were not going to see it for 100 years, so why not? said Nat the Barber, who is 68, a D.C. native who has been barbering for Smokey for 17 years. How about Rainbow City, for all the colors we got here now? said Louis Smith, 68, laughing a little at his idea. The older guys laughed. But the young guys sitting in the chairs born-and-raised sons of D.C. they were horrified by the name. No, it cant be that. This is D.C. It will always be D.C., said a 32-year-old District government worker known as Young White. Next to him, Marcellus Lee, 48, also born-and-raised D.C., said hed never remember to say New Columbia. But he thinks that statehood could happen. Silence. A few bars of the Four Tops play. And the older guys laugh at the optimism of youth. I doubt its going to happen, said Smokey, picking at a basket of blueberries and watching over his shop, one of the oldest businesses on H Street. He was around when the New Columbia name was first proposed in 1982, 15 years after he took over the shop, so hes had it with getting all excited about the debate. And hes got a point. Its an old one. The Founding Fathers busy with the founding of a country and the establishment of a permanent capital knew then there was a fundamental problem with denying voting rights, even for the few thousand people living in the District The agitation began in 1801, when a D.C. resident wrote to Congress with a concern similar to the one on license plates today. We shall be reduced to that deprecated condition of which we pathetically complained in our charges against Great Britain, of being taxed without representation, they wrote. Call it a District. Call it New Columbia. Call it Old Washington. Call it Statey McStateface. The only accurate name for whats been going on in a city more populated than two states and full of everyday citizens for more than 200 years is Unconstitutional. Twitter: @petulad THE DISTRICT Man is charged in fatal shooting in 2015 D.C. police arrested a suspect Wednesday in the fatal shooting of a 19-year-old man in February 2015 in Southeast Washington, according to authorities. Andre Herndon Jr., 20, of Southeast was charged with second-degree murder while armed. He was arrested by members of the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force. The victim was identified as Navontae Howard of Southeast. The shooting occurred about 4:10 p.m. Feb. 3, 2015, in the unit block of Ridge Road SE. Police said Howard was found in the 3500 block of East Capitol Street NE, about a block away, and was taken to a hospital, where he died. Police have not commented on a motive. Peter Hermann MARYLAND Former court official guilty of solicitation A former court commissioner in Montgomery County was found guilty Wednesday of sexual solicitation of a minor. Daniel Read, 30, of Germantown was accused of using social media and text messages to set up a meeting with a person who said he was a 15-year-old high-school student. Read actually was communicating with a detective pretending to be a teen with the user name Kinky Twinkie, according to arrest records. After a two-day bench trial, Montgomery Circuit Court Judge Sharon Burrell found Read guilty of one felony count of solicitation of sex with a minor. Read was released on bond, and his sentencing was scheduled for Aug. 15. He faces up to 10 years in prison and may have to register as a sex offender. Justin Wm. Moyer Man shot last week in Pr. Georges dies Police said Wednesday that they are investigating a homicide in Prince Georges County after the death of a man who was shot last week. About 7:30 p.m. Friday, police were contacted after three shooting victims went to a hospital, Prince Georges police said in a statement. An investigation determined that the victims were shot at 54th Avenue and Macbeth Street, the statement said. The intersection is in an unincorporated area of the county. One victim, Jeremiah Marlon Dingle, 20, of Hyattsville, died of his injuries Wednesday, according to the statement. The other victims suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Detectives are working to identify a motive and suspects, the statement said. Police asked anyone with information to call the homicide unit at (301) 772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477) or go to pgcrimesolvers.com and submit a tip online. Justin Wm. Moyer Suspect in teens killing can be retried Marylands second-highest court ruled Wednesday that a man suspected of killing a 16-year-old girl who disappeared in Baltimore in December 2010 can be prosecuted a third time in her killing. The judges, with one dissent, said that the legal concept of double-jeopardy, which holds that a defendant cannot be prosecuted twice for the same crime, did not attach at two previous trials of Michael M. Johnson. He was charged with killing Phylicia Barnes, whose body was found in the Susquehanna River four months after she disappeared. It was not immediately clear whether Johnsons attorneys planned to appeal. The Baltimore States Attorneys Office said it would file for a third trial. A jury in Baltimore convicted Johnson of second-degree murder in 2012, but a judge ordered a new trial after concluding that prosecutors had withheld evidence. At Johnsons second trial in 2015, a judge declared a mistrial after prosecutors played a recording that jurors were not supposed to hear. The judge then granted a judgment of acquittal. But Marylands Court of Special Appeals ruled that the trial judge erred by granting the acquittal after declaring a mistrial. Peter Hermann Maryland officials say the low staffing levels at state prisons stem from a crackdown on corruption and stricter hiring standards. (Andre Chung/for The Washington Post) The union that represents Maryland correctional officers demanded Thursday that Gov. Larry Hogan (R) increase efforts to fill staff vacancies at state prisons, saying the facilities are short about 1,000 employees. Standing with about two dozen officers outside the Dorsey Run Correctional Facility in Jessup, Md., AFSCME Maryland Council 3 President Patrick Moran said the shortage puts guards and inmates at risk. The [inmates] have a lot of time on their hands, and they notice things, Moran said. Theyre looking for ways to get over on people, and theyre getting over on our folks. Thats dangerous. Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services officials said the state currently has about 600 vacancies for correctional officers, and 1,000 vacancies department-wide. [Baltimore jail scandal: Drugs, money and sex] Gary McLhinney, the agencys director of professional standards, said the problem stems in part from stricter hiring procedures and a crackdown on corrupt employees after a 2013 scandal at the state-run Baltimore City Detention Center, where a handful of guards took part in drug-trafficking and money-laundering operations from within the facility. Since Hogan took office in 2015, the state has seen an increase in the number of departures among its correctional officers, officials said. Forty-four were fired or resigned while facing termination last year, compared with 27 in 2014. State officials said the department has launched several hiring initiatives this year, adding three recruiting specialists, holding recruiting events throughout the state and starting next week offering walk-in eligibility testing at its human-resources center in Baltimore. [Prisons chief: Weve hired some bad people] Were working like crazy and aggressively trying to hire, but were not going to hire people who cant pass a polygraph test, a background check or who have criminal records, McLhinney said. We wont hire anyone who is going to compromise the safety of our correctional officers or the individuals were responsible for. McLhinney said the department tested 4,276 applicants for corrections jobs during the past 18 months and hired just 396 individuals a rate of about 9 percent. As a result, the state is holding training academy courses less frequently. McLhinney said the state often hires accepted applicants to work other jobs in the department while it finds enough recruits to fill a new class. When you get a quality candidate, you dont want to let them go, he said. Someone else will snatch them up. Union officials say the state needs to ramp up its recruiting efforts. We know the department is hiring. Theyre just doing a very bad job, Moran said. Theres no way its because theyre making sure everyone is on the straight and narrow. Theyre just not filling the jobs they need to fill at the pace they need to fill them. Maybe they need to look at compensation to attract a broader pool of applicants. The starting salary for a Maryland correctional officer is about $38,000. [More than 250 Md. corrections employees arrested since 2013] McLhinney said that the department is considering a cadet program that would allow the state to hire young adults for temporary corrections jobs until they are 21, the age at which they are allowed to oversee inmates. Their interim duties could include mail sorting, food service and data entry. The idea is to get them into the system, with a paycheck and health-care benefits, said McLhinney, who joined the Baltimore Police Department as a cadet himself at age 19. Weve seen it work well for law enforcement. Michael McCartin, an officer at the Patuxent Institution in Jessup, said that the shortages at the facility require each guard to do the work of up to four people. Were about one-fourth of what we had officer-wise when I started 18 years ago, McCartin said. Back then, he added, when you got assaulted, you had a sergeant and 10 officers responding. Now you have a sergeant and two officers. McLhinney said prisons have used overtime to compensate for the lack of employees. We dont go short, he said. We pay overtime to make sure every single mandatory position is covered every single day. But some correctional officers say the additional hours have taken a toll on them, cutting into their family lives and leaving them exhausted. You end up having to overlook stuff because youre tired, said Smith Kulu, who works at Dorsey Run. Sometimes I have to pick up my kid from school, but Im stuck. We have a job to do, and we get extra money for the work, but we have to take care of our families. Prince Georges County These were among incidents reported by the Prince Georges County Police Department. For information, call 301-772-4710. District 1 HQ: Hyattsville 301-699-2630 SEXUAL ASSAULT 48th Ave., 4800 block. A sexual assault was reported. ASSAULT 53rd Ave., 9800 block. ROBBERIES Annapolis Rd., 6400 block. Robbery reported. Annapolis Rd., 7900 block. Robbery reported. Baltimore Ave., 8300 block. Robbery reported. Belcrest Rd., 6700 block. Robbery reported. Fox St., 1900 block. Robbery reported. Hamilton St., 5400 block. Robbery reported. Metzerott Rd., 1800 block. Robbery reported. New Hampshire Ave., 6300 block. Robbery reported. New Hampshire Ave., 8100 block. Robbery reported. Timber Creek Terr., 5800 block. Robbery reported. 23rd Ave. and Calvert St., . Robbery reported. 64th Ave., 6300 block. Robbery reported. CARJACKING Timber Ridge Lane, 1500 block. Carjacking reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Annapolis Rd., 6200 block. Annapolis Rd., 8400 block. Baltimore Ave., 7200 block. Baltimore Ave., 9400 block. Theft from auto. Belcrest Rd., 6600 block. Buchanan St., 7500 block. Theft from auto. Campus Dr., 3700 block. Cherry Hill Rd., 4700 block. Chillumgate Rd., 5800 block. Theft from auto. Congress Pl., 9000 block. Dartmouth Ave., 7100 block. Edmonston Rd., 5100 block. Theft from auto. Edwards Pl. and New Hampshire Ave. Finns Lane, 7300 block. Theft from auto. Greenbelt Rd., 6000 block. Kennedy St., 6300 block. Theft from auto. Kreeger Dr., 7900 block. Theft from auto. Laguna Rd., 5000 block. Madison St., 1500 block. Milestone Way, 9600 block. Theft from auto. Muskogee St., 5000 block. New Hampshire Ave., 7900 block. Newburg Dr., 7400 block. Nicholson St., 5600 block. Theft from auto. Parkwood St., 4100 block. Theft from auto. Queens Chapel Rd., 2600 block. Riggs Rd., 7900 block. Theft from auto. Riverdale Rd., 7700 block. Toledo Terr., 3300 block. Toledo Terr., 3400 block. Theft from auto. Toledo Terr., 3500 block. Tuxedo Rd., 5500 block. Underwood St., 4300 block. University Blvd., 2000 block. University Blvd., 2000 block. Theft from auto. University Blvd., 2500 block. Eighth Ave. and Chillum Rd., Theft from auto. 15th Ave., 5400 block. Theft from auto. 16th Ave., 5400 block. Theft from auto. 18th Ave., 7400 block. Theft from auto. 23rd Ave., 7500 block. 37th Ave., 8900 block. 52nd Ave., 5000 block. Theft from auto. 55th Ave., 3400 block. 62nd Ave., 6300 block. Trespassing. 85th Ave., 5200 block. Theft from auto. 85th Ave., 5300 block. Theft from auto. VEHICLE THEFTS Amherst Rd., 1900 block. Baltimore Ave., 8100 block. Baltimore Ave., 8200 block. Eastern Ave., 4600 block. Flanders Dr., 6500 block. Harvard Rd., 4800 block. Hollywood Rd., 5000 block. New Hampshire Ave., 8200 block. Riverdale Rd., 6500 block. Woodberry St., 2100 block. 31st Pl., 4700 block. 43rd Ave., 3500 block. 64th Ave., 5600 block. District 2 HQ: Bowie 301-390-2100 ASSAULT Ardwick Ardmore Rd., 10000 block. ROBBERIES Crain Hwy. NW, 1400 block. Robbery reported. Endsley Pl. and Eton Way, Robbery reported. Harry S Truman Dr., 500 block. Robbery reported. Landover and Lottsford roads, Robbery reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Albert Ct., 1800 block. Theft from auto. Annapolis Rd. and Superior Lane. Blackwell Lane, 12600 block. Braeside Dr., 8800 block. Campus Way S., 10400 block. Campus Way S., 10500 block. Campus Way S., 10500 block. Shoplifting. Canterbury Ct., 11400 block. Theft from auto. Carlene Dr., 13900 block. Theft from auto. Collington Rd., 4300 block. Collington Rd., 4900 block. Cordona St., 5500 block. Crain Hwy. SW, 600 block. Crain Hwy. NW, 3500 block. Crain Hwy. SW, 5300 block. Crandall Ct., 4500 block. Danube Lane, 14400 block. Theft from auto. Deepwood Ct., 4600 block. Dunloring Ct., 800 block. Emerald Way, 15400 block. Foal Ct., 13700 block. Glenn Dale Rd., 4100 block. Theft from auto. Golf Course Terr., 10900 block. Good Luck Rd., 9800 block. Theft from auto. Governor Sprigg Pl., 14500 block. Theft from auto. Governors Bridge Rd., 16400 block. Governors Bridge Rd., 16500 block. Theft from auto. Governors Bridge Rd., 16700 block. Theft from auto. Greenbelt Rd., 8400 block. Greenbelt Rd., 10000 block. Theft from auto. Hall Rd., 15200 block. Harry S Truman Dr. N., 600 block. Harry S Truman Dr. N., 700 block. Health Center Dr., 15000 block. Ignatius Digges Dr., 10600 block. Theft from auto. Jericho Park Rd., 14000 block. Jones Bridge Rd., 14100 block. Theft from auto. Lake Meadows Dr., 14000 block. Lanham Severn Rd., 9000 block. Lanham Severn Rd., 10800 block. Largo Center Dr., 900 block. Largo Center Dr., 1000 block. Lottsford Ct., 9600 block. Marjorie Dr., 11600 block. Theft from auto. Northview Dr., 4100 block. Shoplifting. Oaklyn Lane, 4500 block. Old Chapel Rd., 13300 block. Pennsylvania Ave., 8400 block. Theft from auto. Pratt St., 14800 block. Prince Of Wales Ct., 2200 block. Red Cedar Dr., 2500 block. Theft from auto. Stratford Estates Dr., 16200 block. Turleygreen Pl., 2200 block. Theft from auto. Victoria Heights Dr., 12900 block. Theft from auto. Waesche Dr., 11400 block. Theft from auto. Walkerton Ct., 4100 block. Theft from auto. Whitehall Dr., 12400 block. Theft from auto. Wood Thrush Dr., 7000 block. Theft from auto. VEHICLE THEFTS Alcona St., 9200 block. Blue Fox Pl., 11200 block. Carlene Dr., 13900 block. Juneberry Ct., 600 block. Kitchener Ct., 10700 block. Lake Pointe Ct., 9700 block. Linwood Ave., 9800 block. Robert Lewis Ave., 1800 block. Westlake Dr., 900 block. VANDALISM Crain Hwy. NE, 1300 block. District 3 HQ: Palmer Park 301-772-4900 ASSAULTS Ewing Ave., 2300 block. Cutting. Xavier Lane, 3100 block. ROBBERIES Balboa Ave., 600 block. Robbery reported. Capitol Heights Blvd., 400 block. Robbery reported. Edgeworth Dr., 9100 block. Robbery reported. Marlboro Pike, 4800 block. Robbery reported. Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy., 6700 block. Robbery reported. Silver Hill Rd., 4600 block. Robbery reported. Suitland Rd., 4200 block. Robbery reported. CARJACKINGS Kolb St., 5700 block. Carjacking reported. Parkway Terrace Dr., 3500 block. Carjacking reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Addison Rd. S., 1200 block. Theft from auto. Alaking Ct., 9100 block. Barlowe Rd., 7600 block. Theft from auto. Brightseat Rd., 300 block. Theft from auto. Brightseat Rd., 800 block. Theft from auto. Brightseat Rd., 1500 block. Capitol Heights Blvd., 700 block. Theft from auto. Cawker Ave., 7900 block. Central Ave., 6000 block. Theft from auto. Central Ave., 6800 block. Central Ave., 7400 block. Cindy Lane and Funderburg Dr., Theft from auto. Concord Lane, 2000 block. Davis Ave., 4700 block. Donnell Dr., 3200 block. Donnell Dr., 3400 block. Shoplifting. Fairhill Dr., 2500 block. Theft from auto. Fernham Lane, 7900 block. Theft from auto. Foote St., 6200 block. Forest Park Dr., 1600 block. Gateway Blvd., 6700 block. Gibbs Way, 8200 block. Theft from auto. Glen Willow Dr., 900 block. Theft from auto. Glenarden Pkwy., 8600 block. Gray St., 100 block. Greig St., 6300 block. Hil Mar Dr., 6500 block. Hill Rd., 1000 block. Hillside Ct., 8900 block. Theft from auto. Kent Village Dr., 2300 block. Kipling Pkwy., 6900 block. Theft from auto. L St., 6400 block. Leona St., 7300 block. Lorring Dr., 2700 block. Lorring Dr., 2700 block. Marlboro Pike, 4800 block. Marlboro Pike, 4800 block. Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy., 5700 block. Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy., 5900 block. Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy., 7000 block. Martin Luther King Jr. Hwy., 8600 block. Millwheel St., 500 block. Oates St., 1300 block. Theft from auto. Ocala Ave., 2700 block. Theft from auto. Porter Ave., 2400 block. R St., 4300 block. Theft from auto. Reed St., 3200 block. Ritchie and Walker Mill roads. Ronald Rd., 6600 block. Theft from auto. Shamrock Ave., 1500 block. Theft from auto. Silver Hill Rd., 4900 block. Silver Hill Rd., 5400 block. Silver Hill Rd., 5500 block. Silver Hill Rd., 5600 block. Theft from auto. Silver Hill Rd., 5800 block. Suitland Rd., 3900 block. Theft from auto. Suitland Rd., 4200 block. Surrey Square Lane, 6100 block. Tweed Way, 600 block. Theft from auto. Viceroy Ave., 2900 block. Theft from auto. West Forest Rd., 6500 block. Will St., 4000 block. Theft from auto. 59th Ave., 900 block. VEHICLE THEFTS Addison Rd. S., 1300 block. Barlowe Rd., 7600 block. Capitol Heights Blvd., 500 block. Drum Ave., 800 block. East Inwood St., 7200 block. Funderburg Dr., 6700 block. Kent Town Dr., 7000 block. Matthew Henson Ave. and Normandy Rd. Shady Glen Terr., 7400 block. Stoney Meadow Dr., 5300 block. Swann Rd., 3200 block. 60th Ave., 600 block. 75th Ave., 3100 block. District 4 HQ: Oxon Hill 301-749-4900 ASSAULT St. Barnabas Rd., 3600 block. ROBBERIES Indian Head Hwy., 5300 block. Robbery reported. Livingston Rd., 5500 block. Robbery reported. Marcy Ave., 1000 block. Robbery reported. CARJACKING Southern Ave., 1400 block. Carjacking reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Allentown Rd., 7000 block. Allentown Rd., 7000 block. Theft from auto. Anvil Lane, 2200 block. Theft from auto. Auth Rd., 5600 block. Belfast Dr., 1900 block. Theft from auto. Belfast Dr., 2000 block. Theft from auto. Bluffwood Lane, 8800 block. Theft from auto. Bock Rd., 6800 block. Theft from auto. Brinkley Rd., 2600 block. Brinkley Rd., 3100 block. Brinkley Rd., 3400 block. Broadwater St., 5400 block. Theft from auto. Curtis Dr., 3300 block. Gully Ct., 4900 block. Theft from auto. Helmont Pl., 5600 block. Theft from auto. Hemlock Pl., 3800 block. Indian Head Hwy., 5100 block. Iroquois Way, 100 block. Theft from auto. Irvington St., 700 block. Iverson St., 1300 block. Jessica Dr., 900 block. Theft from auto. Kennebec St., 1100 block. Leverett St., 5300 block. Leyte Dr., 6700 block. Livingston Rd., 6200 block. Livingston Rd., 6400 block. Theft from auto. Lorraine Dr., 5100 block. Lyons St., 4000 block. Maxwell Dr., 6200 block. Theft from auto. Maxwell Dr., 6300 block. Owens Rd., 2400 block. Theft from auto. Southview Dr., 1100 block. Theft from auto. Springmaid Lane, 4600 block. St. George Blvd., 100 block. St. Moritz Dr., 5900 block. Wheeler Rd., 4500 block. Wilson Bridge Dr., 500 block. Wilson Bridge Dr., 500 block. Theft from auto. 23rd Pkwy., 4000 block. Theft from auto. VEHICLE THEFTS Alice Ave., 2100 block. Branch Ave., 3700 block. Brinkley Rd., 3400 block. Chloe Dr., 5500 block. Dallas Pl., 4500 block. Devon Hills Dr., 8600 block. Indian Head Hwy., 5100 block. Irvington St., 700 block. Leslie Ave., 3500 block. Manchester Dr., 5300 block. Oxon Hill Rd., 6000 block. Scarborough Dr., 2600 block. Silver Park Dr., 3600 block. 22nd Pl. and 23rd Pkwy. District 5 HQ: Clinton 301-856-3130 SEXUAL ASSAULT Fallard Ct., 9900 block. A sexual assault was reported. ASSAULT Keebler Dr., 8500 block. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Allentown Rd., 7000 block. Allentown Rd., 7200 block. Heathermore Blvd., 8900 block. Jolly Lane, 8700 block. Marlton Center Dr., 13000 block. Theft from auto. New Town Way, 12700 block. Theft from auto. Old Branch Ave., 7900 block. Theft from auto. Rolling Glen Way, 11600 block. Town Center Way, 12600 block. Theft from auto. Woody Terr., 9000 block. Woodyard Rd., 7900 block. Woodyard Rd., 9000 block. VEHICLE THEFTS East Boniwood Turn, 5900 block. Loch Raven Rd., 7000 block. Marlton Center Dr., 13200 block. Temple Hill Rd., 8600 block. Wendy St., 8600 block. District 6 HQ: Beltsville 301-937-0910 ROBBERY Bowie Rd., 14700 block. Robbery reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Adkins and Laurel Bowie roads. Ammendale Rd., 4500 block. Baltimore Ave., 10900 block. Baltimore Ave., 10900 block. Beltsville Dr., 11900 block. Theft from auto. Cedarbrook Lane, 12800 block. Theft from auto. Cook Rd., 5000 block. Theft from auto. Haynes Rd., 15700 block. Laurel Bowie Rd., 12600 block. Laurel Bowie Rd., 13300 block. Montpelier Dr., 9100 block. Muirkirk Meadows Dr., 6900 block. Theft from auto. Muirkirk Rd., 7100 block. Shadetree Lane, 12300 block. VEHICLE THEFTS Bacon Dr., 10100 block Cherry Hill Rd., 11400 block. Clarke Ave., 14100 block. Contee Rd., 9000 block. Evans Trail, 11300 block. Old Gunpowder Rd., 14600 block. Powder Mill Rd., 4000 block. District 7 HQ: Fort Washington 301-292-5300 ASSAULT Firth Of Tae Dr. and Swan Creek Rd. Cutting. ROBBERY Indian Head Hwy., 10700 block. Robbery reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS East Swan Creek Rd., 900 block. Jefferson Rd., 1400 block. Livingston Rd., 11900 block. Macduff Dr., 12700 block. Theft from auto. McKendree Rd., 16400 block. Moreland St., 10000 block. Old Fort Rd., 11500 block. Old Musket Lane, 1400 block. Theft from auto. Skipjack Dr., 1400 block. Theft from auto. VEHICLE THEFTS Buchanan Dr., 13400 block. Fort Saratoga Ct., 11400 block. Fort Washington Rd., 12500 block. Lunan Rd., 12600 block. Old Fort Rd., 12100 block Swan Creek Rd., 900 block. Greenbelt No incident report was received from the Greenbelt Police Department. For information, call 301-474-7200. Hyattsville These were among incidents reported by Hyattsville police. For information, call 301-985-5060. ASSAULTS Hamilton St., 2900 block, 6:40 p.m. June 16. A male was arrested after he allegedly stabbed a person several times during an altercation. 40th Ave., 6100 block, 7:27 p.m. June 13. A person who was walking in the area was assaulted by three males. 41st Ave. and Oliver St., 5:01 p.m. June 13. While walking home from school, a juvenile was assaulted by two youths. ROBBERY Manorwood Dr. and None At Jamestown Rd., 5:03 p.m. June 15. Robbery reported. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Adelphi Rd., 7000 block, 9:35 a.m. June 17. Trespassing. America Blvd., 6500 block, 12:47 a.m. June 18. Theft from auto. America Blvd., 6500 block, 3:13 a.m. June 18. Baltimore Ave., 5100 block, 1:42 a.m. June 15. Property was stolen from a business. Belcrest Rd., 6500 block, 1:22 p.m. June 12. Theft from auto. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 12:46 a.m. June 12. Theft from auto. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 4:19 p.m. June 12. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 4:44 p.m. June 12. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 2:57 p.m. June 13. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 6:09 p.m. June 13. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 6:38 p.m. June 13. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 11:58 a.m. June 16. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 12:57 p.m. June 17. Shoplifting. East-West Hwy., 3600 block, 12:44 p.m. June 16. Hamilton St., 3400 block, 10:09 p.m. June 17. Kirkwood Pl., 2700 block, 10:46 p.m. June 14. 41st Ave., 6400 block, 3:57 p.m. June 14. Theft from auto. VANDALISM East-West Hwy., 3500 block, 3:20 p.m. June 15. 37th Ave., 6100 block, 10:16 a.m. June 12. Vandalism to automobile. 45th Ave., 6000 block, 4:23 a.m. June 18. Laurel These were among incidents reported by Laurel police. For information, call 301-498-0092. ROBBERIES Mulberry St., 8300 block, midnight June 18. Talbott Ave., 600 block, midnight June 18. Robbery with firearm. THEFTS/BREAK-INS Bowie Rd., 100 block, midnight June 14. Theft from motor vehicle. Baltimore Ave., 14700 block, midnight June 15. Baltimore Ave., 14700 block, midnight June 16. Shoplifting. Baltimore Ave., 14700 block, midnight June 18. Shoplifting. Cherry Lane, 8300 block, midnight June 7. Cherry Lane, 8300 block, midnight June 16. Cherrywood Dr., 14900 block, midnight June 17. Dorset Rd., 15800 block, midnight June 12. Theft of motor vehicle parts and accessories. Kalmia Dr., 14900 block, midnight June 13. Theft of motor vehicle parts and accessories. Montgomery St., 1100 block, midnight June 17. Theft of motor vehicle parts and accessories. Sandy Spring Rd., 1200 block, midnight June 16. Shiloh Ct., 14600 block, midnight June 13. Unforced burglary. Washingon Blvd., Unit block, midnight June 17. Theft of motor vehicle parts and accessories. Washington Blvd., 300 block, midnight June 18. Eighth St., 500 block, midnight June 14. Eighth St., 800 block, midnight June 13. Theft of motor vehicle parts and accessories. Eighth St., 800 block, midnight June 18. MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT Second St., 300 block, midnight June 13. Theft reported. Brian Newby, executive director of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), appears at a public meeting in Arlington, Va. in January. (Yorktel/U.S. Elections Assistance Commission via AP, File) (AP/AP) A federal judge in Washington on Wednesday rejected a request that would have blocked Kansas, Alabama and Georgia from enforcing proof-of-citizenship requirements for people using a federal form to register to vote. The decision by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon came in a lawsuit brought by the League of Women Voters, the NAACP in Georgia and other civil rights groups that sought a preliminary injunction. The groups filed suit in February after Brian D. Newby, executive director of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, notified the three states in a Jan. 29 letter that they could require documentary proof of citizenship on the federal voter registration form. The Justice Department did not defend Newbys decision and instead sided with the plaintiffs. A department spokeswoman declined to comment Wednesday. Chris Carson, president of the League of Women Voters of the United States, said, While we are disappointed in todays decision, we will appeal to protect the critical rights of voters in these three states, especially during this election year. Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach discussed his states proof of citizenship requirements for voter registration in February in his office in Topeka, Ks. (Photo by Christopher Smith/ For the Washington Post) (Christopher Smith/For The Washington Post) Kansas Secretary of State Kris W. Kobach, who defended the state measure in court, praised Leons decision as exactly right, saying that it was necessary to ensure that only U.S. citizens vote, a position overwhelmingly supported by Kansas voters. Kansas implemented the requirement in 2013 for both its state registration form and a simpler federal version. Georgia and Alabama passed similar requirements in 2009 and 2011, but had not acted on the rules, plaintiffs said. Before January, the federal commission had found such requirements invalid for the federal form, a position upheld by a U.S. appeals court in 2014. [The conservative gladiator from Kansas behind restrictive voting laws] Leon said the civil rights groups failed to establish that they would be irreparably harmed by the changes. He said the changes,although an inconvenience, in no way preclude the organizational plaintiffs and their members from conducting their core activities of encouraging civic participation in both state and federal elections. Injuries to voter registration drive efforts are far from certain in Alabama and Georgia where, on the record before me, the documentation of citizenship requirements are not even being enforced, Leon added in a 25-page opinion. In Kansas, Leon continued, to the extent these inconveniences and added resources are injuries, they are not actually irreparable, because the state said it will retroactively register individuals who seek to vote in federal elections but were barred solely because they failed to document their citizenship when they applied. Former judge Richard W. Roberts before the start of a ceremony at the federal courthouse in Washington in 2008. A Utah woman alleges in a lawsuit filed in March 2016 that Roberts sexually assaulted her 35 years ago when he was a prosecutor and she was a teenage witness in a high-profile case. Robertss lawyers have called the allegations categorically false. (Charles Dharapak/AP) The former chief judge of the U.S. District Court in Washington has asked a judge to dismiss a federal civil lawsuit that accuses him of sexual assault and abuse more than three decades ago. Richard W. Roberts, who retired in March the same day the lawsuit was filed, said the womans claims that she was coerced into having sex are wholly without merit and were filed long after the required legal deadlines. In his first formal response to the lawsuit, Robertss attorneys acknowledge he had a brief, consensual intimate relationship 35 years ago with the woman, Terry Mitchell. But the rape allegations are false and have long since been time-barred and must be dismissed, according to the court filing this week. When they met in 1981, Mitchell was a 16-year-old eyewitness for the government in a high-profile murder case Roberts was prosecuting in Utah. In addition to the civil lawsuit Mitchell filed in Salt Lake City, a federal appellate court is reviewing the decision to dismiss a separate misconduct complaint against Roberts. The outcome of the review by the Denver-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit could determine whether Roberts remains eligible to collect his full salary for life. Roberts, 63, retired early after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit certified that he was permanently disabled based on a medical report that shows he suffers from a very serious health condition that his attorneys have not publicly disclosed. [Appeals court in Denver to review ethics complaint against retired chief judge] Mitchell and Roberts met during the trial of Joseph Paul Franklin, who had fatally shot two black men who were jogging with white women through a Salt Lake City park. Mitchell was one of the women and was called as a witness to testify about the death of her friends. Before filing the lawsuit, Mitchell contacted the Utah Attorney Generals Office, which asked a former federal judge to review her allegations and make recommendations. Former judge Paul G. Cassell concluded the allegations did not support criminal prosecution. Under Utah state law in 1981, Mitchell was old enough to consent to sexual relations with Roberts, who was then an unmarried 28-year-old. But the judge reviewing the allegations said Roberts likely should have disclosed to the defense his sexual relationship with a witness testifying for the government as part of his constitutional duty. In her lawsuit filed March 16, Mitchell, now 51, says Roberts intimidated, coerced, and manipulated her into having sex for weeks and that he picked her up from home or the courthouse to take her to dinner and then to his hotel. Mitchell says that she repressed all memory of the events until Roberts got in touch with her by email after Franklin was executed in 2013. Robertss attorneys say the timing contradicts her statements to law enforcement officials that suggested she was aware of the nature of their relationship during periodic phone conversations she and Roberts had over the years. Mitchells attorney Rocky Anderson said Thursday that Robertss attorneys mischaracterized their conversations and what she told investigators. Its a complicated set of emotions when a young person is pulled into something with someone who has immense power, Anderson said. Specifically, Robertss lawyers, led by Brian M. Heberlig, said that the one-year and four-year statutes of limitations have expired for the 35-year-old allegations. In 2015, Utah amended state law to allow civil lawsuits to be brought at any time in cases involving sexual abuse suffered as a child. Robertss lawyers said in the filing that 2015 law does not apply retroactively. Anderson, Mitchells attorney, disagreed. The law was designed, he said, to deal with cases like this one in which it takes young people sometimes decades to be able to confront the perpetrators. If the judge were to hold a hearing, Robertss lawyers said, Mitchell would have to present evidence to show she was not cognizant during the limitations period of having had sexual relations with Roberts. In the separate review by the 10th Circuit, the court is considering the D.C. Circuits dismissal of a misconduct complaint by the Utah attorney generals office. Acting chief judge Karen L. Henderson said the complaint had been rendered moot because of Robertss retirement. Parts of the Intercounty Connector were closed for more than an hour early Thursday afternoon after an officer making a traffic stop discharged his weapon during a confrontation with a driver who wielded a knife when he was stopped, police said. The officer and the driver were not injured, according to Sgt. Jonathan Green, spokesman for the Maryland Transportation Authority Police. The incident occurred just before 1 p.m in the westbound lanes of the ICC at mile mark 5.1 near Shady Grove. Green said that during the stop, the 31-year-old driver from Silver Spring left his car carrying a knife and approached the officer. The officer ordered the man to drop the knife and fired his weapon when the man did not comply, Green said. Green did not identify the driver or the officer. Green was not immediately able to give more details about the shot, which is part of the investigation. He said charges are pending against the driver. Prince Georges police identified the suspect in Friday's triple killing as Lawrence Sylvester Rogers Jr., 24, of Capitol Heights, Md. He has been arrested and charged with murder for the deadly shooting at a Forestville home. (WUSA9) Prince Georges police identified the suspect in Friday's triple killing as Lawrence Sylvester Rogers Jr., 24, of Capitol Heights, Md. He has been arrested and charged with murder for the deadly shooting at a Forestville home. (WUSA9) The suspect arrested for a triple fatal shooting Friday night in Prince Georges County was under supervised release until December in the District, where he previously pleaded guilty to a charge of carrying a pistol in public in a 2012 incident, court files show. Prince Georges police identified the suspect as Lawrence Sylvester Rogers Jr., 24, of Capitol Heights, Md. He is charged with three counts each of first- and second-degree murder in shootings at a Forestville home Friday that left three people dead and wounded two others. Lawrence Sylvester Rogers Jr., 24, of Capitol Heights, Md. (Photo: Prince Georges County Police Department) County police said they did not expect additional arrests in the county case. It remains unclear whether Rogers had any relationship to the victims and what the motive behind the shootings was, county police said at a news conference Thursday. Capt. Brian Reilly said several valuable items were found in the home after the killings, suggesting that robbery alone was not the motive. He said that at this stage, police do not believe that drugs were a motive, although a small amount of illegal drugs, which he declined to identify, was found at the house. [Police release video in triple shooting in Forestville] The shootings occurred about 9:35 p.m. in a house in the 3100 block of Orleans Avenue. Pronounced dead at the scene were Carlina Renee Gray, 50; Jan Marie Parks, 55; and Allen Rowlett, 60. Two other people were critically wounded and taken to a hospital. Some of the victims lived in the house, and others were visiting, police have said. Rowlett was a corporate driver for the Virginia-based media company TEGNA, said Karen Plante, a longtime co-worker. Rogers was arrested Wednesday evening in an apartment in the 400 block of Burbank Street in Southeast Washington. Reilly said a 9mm handgun was found there and is being tested to see whether it was the weapon used in the Forestville shootings. Rogers was expected to appear Thursday in D.C. Superior Court and is awaiting extradition to Prince Georges, authorities said. D.C. Superior Court records show that Rogers was put on two years of supervised release on Dec. 18, 2014, and police confirmed that he is the same individual arrested in the county shootings. The D.C. court records show he pleaded guilty to a charge of carrying a pistol in public in a 2012 incident and was sentenced to eight months in prison before being put on supervised release. Rogers was arrested Dec. 9, 2012, after a confrontation at a gas station in the 3800 block of Minnesota Avenue NE, court files show. A man who was getting gas said he was frightened when Rogers approached him and, in response, reached into his vehicle as if he had a gun to scare off Rogers, court records show. Police said Rogers then lifted his shirt, revealing a black handgun tucked in his waistband. The man getting gas sped away and flagged down a U.S. Park Police officer, who broadcast a lookout, according to court files. Two D.C. police officers stopped Rogers a short time later in the 3500 block of A Street SE. The officers said in an arrest affidavit that they saw him pull a gun from his pants and throw it on the ground. Police said they recovered a Hi-Point .45-caliber semiautomatic pistol with the serial number filed off. As Prince Georges detectives announced the arrest in the Forestville shootings on Thursday, they praised neighbors who had security video equipment that captured images of the suspect after the shooting. Video was critical, Reilly said. Police had released video showing a man running up a driveway and jumping a fence near the scene of the killings. Police also released a photo of the suspect taken at a convenience store on Marlboro Pike in Forestville. Lynh Bui contributed to this report. Then-Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) speaks with aide Huma Abedin at the start of a presidential campaign rally in Charleston, W.Va., in March 2008. (Charles Dharapak/Associated Press) Problems related to Hillary Clintons private email setup got in the way of State Department business on at least one occasion, prompting the then-secretary of state to miss a call with a foreign government official, a top Clinton aide testified under oath this week. The aide, Huma Abedin, questioned as part of a public records lawsuit brought by the conservative legal group Judicial Watch, said she and her boss were frustrated by the episode in which Clintons email messages were being blocked by spam filters. As a result, Abedin recommended that Clinton consider getting a government email account that she could use alongside the personal system an alternative that Abedin said was never implemented. She wasnt able to do her job, do what she needed to do, Abedin said, according to a deposition transcript released Wednesday. Abedins testimony came amid a stream of other revelations regarding Clintons emails that have continued to dog the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee as she tries to put to rest the months-long controversy. The Inspector General's office said on May 25 that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's use of a personal email account was not an appropriate method for preserving those emails. (Peter Stevenson,Sarah Parnass/The Washington Post) Using a private email server for official and personal business was Clintons decision, Abedin said, according to the transcript. That was a decision that she had made, Abedin said. Abedin answered questions during a 5 1/2 -hour deposition Tuesday at her attorneys law firm. Abedin, Clintons then-deputy chief of staff as secretary and now vice chair of her Democratic presidential campaign, told lawyers with Judicial Watch that, to her knowledge, Clinton never had an official account during her time in the Senate nor a 2008 presidential campaign account. From my understanding, I just saw it as continue [sic] doing what she was doing before she arrived at the State Department and served from 2009 to 2013, Abedin said. She had always had a personal device since she had started using email. Thats what she used when she was in the Senate. Abedin is the only other State Department employee known to have an account on the server. On Tuesday, Abedin said to her knowledge only she, Clinton and Clintons daughter, Chelsea, had accounts on the system. Abedin testified that she was never asked to respond to a public records request during her time at the State Department and did not consider how emails sent on a private account might be searched in response to requests. In 2015, two years after leaving office, Abedin testified that she was asked to turn over all federal records in her possession to the State Department. In response, she handed over a BlackBerry, two laptops and some paper files to her attorneys and asked them to search the contents and turn over all State Department- related material to the agency. 1 of 9 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad Takeaways from Hillary Clintons e-mails View Photos Clinton has come under fire for using a private e-mail address during her time as secretary of state. The emails are being screened and released in batches. Here are some things weve learned from them. Caption Clinton has come under fire for using a private email address during her time as secretary of state. The emails are being screened and released in batches. Here are some things weve learned from them. Top-secret information in e-mails Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has previously stated that classified information never traveled across her private server. However, the State Department has acknowledged that "top secret" information was in seven email chains sent or received by her. Richard Drew/AP Wait 1 second to continue. The State Department has, in turn, been releasing those records to Judicial Watch as part of the litigation in batches over time. The process is still underway, but Judicial Watch said Wednesday that it had so far located 127 of Clintons emails in those records that had not been among those Clinton herself gave to the State Department in December 2014. In all, more than 160 emails sent or received by Clinton have so far come to light that had not been included in her submissions. Clinton has said she turned over all work-related emails in her possession. The new findings raise questions about the process her lawyers used to sift her work correspondence from personal notes she has said she deleted. Clintons possible involvement in such matters could become a factor in whether a federal judge orders her to be deposed. In a March 22, 2009, email chain released recently, Clinton asked how her records were being handled in a message to Abedin and another department aide, Lauren Jiloty, who had worked for Clinton in the Senate. I have just realized I have no idea how my papers are treated at State. Who manages both my personal and official files? . . . I think we need to get on this asap to be sure we know and design the system we want, Clinton wrote. Weve discussed this, Abedin replied, I can explain it to you when I see u today. In a Nov. 13, 2010, exchange, Abedin wrote Clinton after the secretary complained that some of her BlackBerry messages to staffers were getting blocked by the departments spam filter. We should talk about putting you on state email or releasing your email address to the department so you are not going to spam, Abedin wrote. Lets get separate address or device but I dont want any risk of the personal being accessible, Clinton responded. Asked about the exchange, Abedin said in the deposition that she could not recall why she recommended changing Clintons email setup or any discussions with Clinton about her response. She also said the secretary was unhappy about missing a scheduled call with a foreign minister. Just reading the exchange, she seems frustrated because shes not able to do her job. I seem frustrated back, Abedin said. Abedin said she did not believe Clintons question about how records were being managed arose out of a concern that her personal emails would be accessible as public records through the federal Freedom of Information Act. I absolutely do not believe that, no, Abedin said. Abedin said she never had concerns with Clintons private email use because I assumed it was allowed. Abedin also said that when she read Clintons email asking about the handling of files that Clintonwas referring to paper records, not emails. Abedins deposition was taken in a Judicial Watch case over the groups 2013 FOIA request for records about Abedins employment arrangement. For the last six months of Clintons tenure, Abedin was employed simultaneously by the State Department, the Clinton Foundation, Clintons personal office and a private consulting firm connected to the Clintons. Abedins lead attorney, Miguel Rodriguez, declined to comment. In an interview, Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton said, I think its striking that even Mrs. Clintons top aide had concerns about how the system affected Mrs. Clintons ability to do her job. He added, Were considering what next steps to take and what additional discovery we need. Abedin was the latest of a half-dozen current and former Clinton and department aides to appear for questions in the lawsuit, and by some measures was more forthcoming than some others deposed, at times answering questions even after her or the governments lawyers objected. A final scheduled deposition, of Undersecretary Patrick Kennedy, was completed Wednesday, and a transcript is expected later this week, at which point the federal judge in the case has said Judicial Watch may ask the court for permission to depose Clinton if the group argues that is necessary. Read more: Clinton IT aide who set up email server asserts 5th Amendment in civil deposition State Dept: FOIA officers didnt know, didnt ask about Clintons use of private email New analysis shows 160 emails missing from Clintons disclosure to State Waiting for next president, confirmations of federal trial judges stall Donald Trump leads reporters on a tour of the Old Post Office Pavilion, soon to be a Trump International Hotel, in D.C. on March 21. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post) Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is suing the District over the tax bill for the five-star hotel he is developing at the Old Post Office Pavilion. The suit, filed Thursday in D.C. Superior Court by attorneys for Trump, says the city is demanding an unreasonable amount for the shell of a non-operational building undergoing a massive conversion to a hotel. Trump has pledged to put $200 million into the buildings renovation. Because of the significant changes inside the building, he argued, it should not be charged taxes for the past two years as a viable property. He said the renovation costs are particularly high because of his commitment to preserve historical structures and features and the vast size of the building. The hotel is slated to open in September, a couple of months before the presidential election. Typically, properties owned by the federal government are not taxed. But several years ago, the D.C. government began taxing commercial renters in federal buildings. Politico, which first reported Trumps intention to sue, found that the District assessed the value of the Old Post Office Pavilion buildings at $98 million. Trump got that value reduced to $91 million, but efforts to get an additional reduction failed before an appeals board. The lawsuit says that several existing luxury hotels, including the Ritz-Carlton in Georgetown, have lower tax assessments. It adds that before Trump began leasing the building, which previously held a mix of federal offices and tourist-oriented retail and restaurants, it was losing $6 million a year. Trump attorney William Bosch called the lawsuit a routine and customary practice that thousands of property owners in the District and many more across the country have used to ensure that their tax assessments are fairly established. The suit, filed by the Trump Old Post Office LLC, is not the only legal battle over the project. Trump sued celebrity chef Jose Andres last year after he backed out of a restaurant project that was supposed to be part of the hotel, following Trumps controversial comments about Mexicans at the outset of his presidential campaign. Andres has countersued Trump. Jonathan OConnell contributed to this report. THE DISTRICT Day-care worker charged with abuse A former worker at a day-care center in Southeast Washington has been charged with abusing a child after D.C. police said she was caught on video pulling hair from the head of a 1-year-old boy. Lisa M. Vaughn, 50, of Northwest, was arrested at her home Wednesday after police were called earlier that day to the Kids Are Us Learning Center in the 1200 block of Southern Avenue SE. Police described Vaughn as a former worker at the center, but it was not clear when her employment ended. Vaughn was charged with one felony count of second-degree cruelty to children. The D.C. Public Defender Service, which represents Vaughn, did not comment. An arrest affidavit filed in D.C. Superior Court says the video shows Vaughn pulling the [childs] braid out of his head and tossing it on the floor. Peter Hermann Man fatally shot in Northeast D.C. A man was fatally shot in Northeast Washington on Wednesday night, according to a D.C. police spokeswoman. Officers were called to the 800 block of Bladensburg Road shortly before 10 p.m., where they found a man with a gunshot wound to the back, police said. The man was taken to a hospital, where he died. As of late Thursday, police had not identified the victim. Justin Jouvenal Teenager charged as adult in gun slaying A 17-year-old whom police arrested a day earlier in the shooting death of a man inside an apartment in Columbia Heights was charged as an adult Thursday with second-degree murder, according to prosecutors. Antonio Bedney of Northeast was ordered detained until a preliminary hearing July 15. The shooting occurred June 14 in a third-floor apartment in the 2900 block of 14th Street NW. Police said Devonte Crawford, 20, of Northwest, was shot in the head and died at the scene. Court documents state that several people were in the apartment the night of June 13 and were smoking marijuana and drinking. At some point, Crawford and Bedney argued, police said, and struggled over a handgun. Peter Hermann Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport has high security standards, making the June 28 suicide attack that killed at least 41 people there even more disconcerting. Here's what other airports around the world are doing to fight the threat of terror attacks. (Monica Akhtar/The Washington Post) Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport has high security standards, making the June 28 suicide attack that killed at least 41 people there even more disconcerting. Here's what other airports around the world are doing to fight the threat of terror attacks. (Monica Akhtar/The Washington Post) An international expert on airport security says that until security forces develop the ability to react to terrorists within seconds, airports will remain vulnerable to attacks like those in Istanbul and Brussels. If you look at the tactics used by the terrorists in Istanbul, they started by shooting. If the response would have come in a matter of seconds and was effective enough, they probably would have been dead before they detonated their devices and before they managed to cause a large number of casualties, said Rafi Ron, a former security chief at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion International Airport who now works as an airport security consultant in the United States and other countries. Ron declined to say whether that response would come in the form of police snipers, SWAT teams or other means. I really dont want to get into the technical detail. I dont think we should be discussing the defensive tactics, he said. Theres more than one way to respond in a matter of seconds. Ron points out that airports are familiar terrorism targets, with an explosion that killed and injured dozens in Moscow five years ago and the attacks in Vienna, Paris and Rome in the 1970s. One of the suicide bombers managed to penetrate airport security and enter the international terminal at Istanbul Ataturk Airport on June 28, 2016, where he was then shot. While lying injured, he detonated the explosives he was carrying with him. (Monique Jaques/For The Washington Post) [Death toll rises to 41 in Istanbul airport attack] There is a lot that can be done, said Ron, who was instrumental in setting up the current security system in Tel Aviv. Its not a common practice in most of the Western world. It is more common in the areas that are identified as high-risk areas. Certainly, at airports in war zones, I assume these types of measures are happening. At Baghdad International Airport, civilian cars are not allowed to drive to the terminal. Passengers must transfer to approved buses or taxis at a parking lot at the perimeter of the airport, after which they pass through two screening checks, including one with sniffer dogs, before reaching the terminal. Inside the terminal, there are two more X-ray machines prior to check-in, another after immigration, and a final one at the gate. So far, Baghdad has avoided a major attack on its airport during the countrys war against the Islamic State. But in November 2014, a suicide car bomber detonated explosives at the checkpoint at the entrance to the public parking lot on the airports outskirts, injuring five people. Israels aviation security both at Tel Aviv and on flights from abroad that are departing for Israel is among the tightest in the world. Several miles before travelers arrive at the main terminals of Ben Gurion airport, they first pass through a military checkpoint, where the identities of taxi drivers and passengers can be scrutinized. Travelers whom guards deem suspicious can be questioned and their baggage searched several miles from the terminals. Israeli authorities freely acknowledge that they profile passengers. Young Muslim men, including those from the United States, are often subjected to second and third screenings including strip searches and examinations of their personal electronic devices. A view of damage at Istanbul Ataturk Airport on June 29, 2016, as the death toll continued to rise a day after the June 28 attack by three suicide bombers. (Monique Jaques/For The Washington Post) [A day after the Istanbul attack: Were sad. Were scared.] At the airport terminal, other guards may stop and question passengers before they are allowed entry. At check-in, there are more questions by security officers: Whom do you know in Israel? What are their names? But in Europe, the United States and other regions, passengers and others have easier access to airports. After the terrorist attacks in Brussels, where a bomb was detonated in the terminal area before the security checkpoint, questions were raised in Britain over where the ring of security should be placed at an airport and whether the existing security arrangements were enough to prevent attacks. As in Brussels, passengers entering airport terminals in Britain do not immediately go through security checks. At U.S. airports, security responsibility is shared by the Transportation Security Administration and local law enforcement agencies. You have to look at the division of responsibility between the federal government and the local government, when the feds consider themselves responsible for passengers and bags, and they expect that local government will protect the airport facility, Ron said. In most cases, those police forces are too few, too thin and hardly present at the right place in the airport, and, in any case, too busy issuing traffic tickets rather than getting involved in the protective missions at the airport. [Photos: What the scene at Istanbul airport looked like after attacks] Most airport law enforcement officers lack the combat skills to do what is required to meet this type of challenge, he said. We have to reconsider our strategy on this [because] of the latest attacks in Brussels and in Istanbul, he said. We have to adjust our existing resources as a way of mitigating this type of risk at this time. If you look at the airports that serve Washington, D.C., and ask yourself the question, how long would it take for somebody to actually respond to an active shooter, and you wont be able to avoid the conclusion that the situation would be much worse than the one in Istanbul. Karla Adam in London, William Booth in Jerusalem and Loveday Morris in Baghdad contributed to this report. A recalled Takata air bag inflater is shown after it was removed at the AutoNation Honda dealership service department in Miami on June 25, 2015. ( Joe Skipper / Reuters/Reuters) Federal regulators on Thursday issued an urgent warning to owners of more than 300,000 Hondas and Acuras, saying they should not drive their vehicles until the Takata air bags are replaced. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said a new round of tests on the Takata air bags installed in some model-year 2001-2003 Hondas and Acuras posed a much higher threat to drivers and passengers than first thought. The agency said the air bags needed immediate replacement. In collisions, the faulty Takata air bags can rupture and spray drivers and passengers with metal shrapnel. With as high as a 50 percent chance of a dangerous air-bag inflater rupture in a crash, these vehicles are unsafe and need to be repaired immediately, Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement. Folks should not drive these vehicles unless they are going straight to a dealer to have them repaired immediately, free of charge. Takata air bags are installed by almost two dozen automakers and their malfunction has been blamed for 10 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The NHTSA said nearly 70 million Takata air bags are or will be under recall in the United States by 2019, making it the largest recall in the nations history. [U.S. regulators pinpoint cause of Takata air-bag explosions, expand recall] The Japanese firm is the worlds largest manufacturer of air bags, and replacements are in such short supply that many U.S. drivers who have received recall notices are being told it will take weeks or months before their vehicles can be repaired. Unlike other air-bag makers, Takata uses ammonium nitrate to trigger a small explosion that inflates the air bag when the vehicle strikes something. But in some vehicles particularly those that were several years old and kept in regions with high humidity the ammonium nitrate burns too fast, causing the chemicals container to explode and spray shrapnel. Takata says it will phase out the use of ammonium nitrate in its air-bag systems by 2018. That means that some drivers may have to have their air bags replaced twice, once with a newer ammonium nitrate bag and a second time when air bags that dont use the problematic chemical become available. Eight of the 10 confirmed air-bag deaths including the most recent near Houston in March were in 2001-2003 Hondas and Acuras, the NHTSA said. Huma Hanif, 17, died when her air-bag inflater exploded on March 31, after her car collided with another vehicle at an intersection in suburban Houston. The auto dealer and Honda said they had sent six air-bag recall notices to Hanifs family, but family members said they had not received the notices. [Senate panel grills manufacturer of defective air bags] The NHTSA data released Wednesday said that in the following model years, the air-bag inflaters contain a manufacturing defect which greatly increases the potential for dangerous rupture. 2001-2002 Honda Civic 2001-2002 Honda Accord 2002-2003 Acura TL 2002 Honda CR-V 2002 Honda Odyssey 2003 Acura CL 2003 Honda Pilot Testing of the inflaters from these vehicles show rupture rates as high as 50 percent in a laboratory setting, the NHTSA said. All of the cars in question were under recalls issued between 2008 and 2011, the NHTSA said. Honda has said that air bags have been replaced in more than 70 percent of the cars in question, but an additional 313,000 of them have not been repaired. The air-bag inflaters in this particular group of vehicles pose a grave danger to drivers and passengers that must be fixed right away, NHTSA Administrator Dr. Mark Rosekind said in a statement. Drivers should visit SaferCar.gov or contact their local dealer to check whether their vehicle is affected. If it is, they should have the vehicle repaired immediately for free by an authorized dealer. The NHTSA said replacement parts would be made available immediately for the high-risk vehicles. RICHMOND Hillary Clintons presidential campaign has tapped veterans of statewide campaigns in Virginia to help the presumptive Democratic nominee make her case to voters in the swing state. Gov. Terry McAuliffe, Sen. Mark Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine are lending staffers to the Virginia effort, which is ramping up as Clinton prepares for the national convention in Philadelphia next month. Kaine is among the contenders reportedly on Clintons short list for vice president a job President Obama was said to consider him for in 2012. During an appearance on WTOP radio Wednesday, McAuliffe said hes advocating very hard on behalf of Kaine to the Clintons, with whom the governor has had close ties for decades. The head of McAuliffes political action committee Common Good VA, Brian Zuzenak, is director of Clintons Virginia campaign. He previously worked for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Our staff has extensive experience in Virginia, Zuzenak said in a statement, and were working with the coordinated campaign to recruit volunteers, connect with supporters, and build the personal relationships with voters that mark successful campaigns here. Democrats have drawn attention to Virginia Republicans, including Rep. Barbara Comstock, who have not endorsed the GOPs presumptive nominee, Donald Trump. As voters across Virginia, including Republicans, continue to reject Donald Trump because they know hes unfit, unqualified and too dangerous to be president, Democrats are uniting behind Hillary Clintons candidacy which is driven by the belief that we are stronger together, Zuzenak added. His deputy is Keren Dongo, a Kaine staffer since he was elected to the Senate in 2012 who has also worked for McAuliffe, Warner and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.). Warners senior policy adviser, Marvin Figueroa, is political director of Clintons Virginia campaign, and Sarah Peck, Kaines press secretary, is communications director. The Democratic National Committee is working with the state party on a campaign to elect Clinton and Democrats down the ballot. [Video: Meet Tim Kaine] Kate Cummings is director of the coordinated campaign; she ran McAuliffes successful 2013 field effort and worked for Obamas re-election campaign. The organizing director is Chris Bolling, who was previously deputy executive directive director of the state party. Trump is staffing up as well, and relying on Corey Stewart, chairman of the Prince William Board of Supervisors, to run Team Virginia with former governor Jim Gilmore. They will focus on voter registration and communications using funds from the Republican National Committee and the Trump campaign, according to the state party. Lauren Conner laughed when she first slipped off the boat. She, her boyfriend and another couple had spent Sunday afternoon drinking in sunshine and cold beer on the Sassafras River on Marylands Eastern Shore. They began heading to the dock shortly before nightfall, but as the 21-foot Yamaha motored north through the Chesapeake Bay at 40 mph, the hull struck a wake so hard that Conner fell off the stern. She immediately popped to the surface, unharmed but embarrassed that perhaps shed drunk a few too many bottles of Flying Dog lager. Conner, 32, expected some teasing from her companions as she watched the boat stop and turn back toward her. At any moment, she was sure, theyd find her. No more than 40 yards away, she screamed through the stiff wind. When that didnt work, she stripped off her white shorts and waved them. Her boyfriend, Scott Johnson, frantically scanned the surface, but the fading sun betrayed him. The low light flashed across every wave, creating a kaleidoscope of false hope. Minutes passed, and he began to fear that shed hit her head and sunk. Johnson called 911 and remained on the phone to navigate rescuers toward his position. He lit a flare and held it up as clumps of the fiery red substance dripped off, scorching his hand and head. Meanwhile, Conner, now aware she was in serious danger, eyed a wide yellow buoy and swam toward it, hoping she could cling to the sides until help arrived. [First, his father slipped beneath the Chesapeake Bays waters. Then his uncle disappeared, too.] Just as Conner realized that its shell was too slick to grip, the rescue boats drew near. She could see their blue lights flickering in the distance, so she pulled off her maroon tank top to flap in the air. By then, though, it was too late. Darkness surrounded her. With a dozen boats and a helicopter unable to find his girlfriend, Johnson began to fear hed never see her again and he blamed himself. What, he thought, am I going to tell her kids? In so many ways, though, the life shed endured one consumed by chaos and death had prepared Conner for the most harrowing night of her life. Lauren Connor with her boyfriend, Scott Johnson, and his daughter, Juliet. Juliet has gone boating with them often but was not on the boat the night of the incident. (Michael S. Williamson/The Washington Post) Her will, she knew, wouldnt easily break. Lauren Conner is a survivor. Just keep swimming She faced a choice: Tread water and hope shed be rescued, or swim toward a strip of green on the horizon. Conner still held the tank top from her CrossFit gym in her hand. An image of a warrior appeared on the back. The shirt was her favorite. She let it go. Lauren, she said aloud, you are not going to die out here. Conner, now only in a bikini, headed for land, helped by a current that was drawing her toward it. Still, she had no idea that the beach was about two miles away or whether her legs would give out before she reached it. She recalled what shed long told her children in moments of fear: As long as you can float, you wont drown. [He knew two men had just drowned in the Chesapeake Bay. He waded in at the same spot anyway.] So, she rolled onto her back and started to kick. Few things were consistent in her youth, other than the water. Both of her parents struggled with addiction, and her mom spent many nights in jail because of it. Not long ago, Conner tried to remember how many different places she had lived as a kid. She quit counting around 40. One of six children, Conner slept at times in cars, foster homes, her dads office. Always, though, she would find her way to a pool or a river, a lake or a bay. Her twin sister, Stefanie, thought of that, too, as she consoled Conners 11-year-old son, Ethan Simpson. Much of the family had gathered after word spread about Laurens disappearance. Stefanie had vomited when she first got the call but knew she couldnt let Ethan see her break down. She reminded him what Conner always said just keep floating. What if shes not floating? he asked her. What if shes under the water and they cant see her? Beneath a deep purple sky, Conner sang a tune from Finding Nemo Just keep swimming, just keep swimming because it helped her focus on one stroke at a time. She joked to herself about how absurd the situation was, because jokes had always provided comfort in the worst times. She pleaded with Jesus to save her, because she believed He was listening. Mostly, she thought about the four kids she calls her own: Ethan and his 15-year-old sister, her 17-year-old stepdaughter and Johnsons 5-year-old girl. [A Marine fights to prove hes innocent of sexual misconduct. Then a lost cellphone is found.] I cannot let these kids down, Conner told herself, because she knew what it felt like to be let down. Shed raised hell in her childhood, often because no one was around to stop her. But she changed as adulthood approached. At 15 a year before she had her first child Conners father was walking home from a bar in Baltimore when he fell from a train track and broke his neck. At 18 soon after Conner had taken custody of her two younger siblings her mother overdosed on heroin. Conner didnt give up, even when people expected her to, because she couldnt let her kids down. She went to cosmetology school and, in 2007, became a hair stylist. For the past seven years, shes worked for herself and now runs her own chair at a salon in Bel Air, Md. You just do what you have to do to survive, Stefanie said. Thats just the attitude weve always had. [After family capsizes in Chesapeake Bay, brother swims 5 hours to get help ] But there were moments on the water, Conner said, when survival felt unlikely. Her energy waning, she turned over at one point to see how far she was from land. Im not even close, she thought. As Conner paddled on, the waves grew, pushing her head beneath the surface and forcing water into her mouth. In brief moments, Conner sensed that she was drowning. Then, suddenly, the tips of her left foots toes felt something. Mud. A rough night for all About midnight, Johnson said, Maryland Natural Resources Police brought him on shore, where he filled out an incident report. About an hour later, he said, officers sent him home. By that point, at least four agencies were searching for Conner. When he pulled up to their house in Aberdeen, Md., the lights were still on. He sat in his truck for 20 minutes, unaware that Stefanie had already picked Ethan up. Johnson couldnt bear to face him. He knew, too, that Conners family was struggling to understand his explanation about what had happened. How, if shed just fallen off, had no one found her? This is on me, he thought. One hundred percent, this is on me. He spent a sleepless night in their bedroom her photo on the night table, her painted coconut from their trip to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic nearby, her Jeep Compass in the driveway outside his window. Johnson answered every call from a number he didnt know, expecting to hear a voice tell him that Conners body had been found. About five miles away, Stefanie sat in the driveway of a friends house and smoked a menthol 100. She typed out a text that shed begun to doubt her sibling would ever read. Lauren. Sister, she wrote. My twinny. My inspiration. My best friend. I love you. She couldnt recall ever being more distraught. We lost our mom. We lost our dad, Stefanie said later. That was nothing compared to this. Conner had reached Spesutie Islands beach overwhelmed with relief but still unsure of her fate. Rusted white signs warned that the area, which is part of the Armys Aberdeen Proving Ground, is used to test weapons. Hoping to find someone, she walked north, climbing barefoot over rocks and fighting off swarms of horseflies. Exhausted, she made a bed of leaves her birds nest on a concrete slab. Conner shivered so violently that her jaw hurt. The moment reminded her of a winter in Baltimore when, around age 14, she slept one night in an abandoned building. At sunrise, she walked back toward the beach. With no boats in view, Conner was heading into the brush when she spotted a raspberry bush. It was a good omen, she thought. One of her favorite childhood memories was picking them at her grandmothers home in Pennsylvania. Conner trudged farther inland, finally reaching a path that led to a road. Certain that her family believed she had died, Conner was desperate to reach them. Minutes later, she spotted an orange truck driving toward her. Then, the tears came. Candy Thomson, spokeswoman for the Maryland Natural Resources Police, had been up for about an hour by then. As she made her coffee, Thomson formulated in her mind how she would announce the news of the years sixth boating fatality. Then a text from an investigator arrived. Girl found, the message said. Can u believe it? Magda Jean-Louis contributed to this report. Read more A Marine fights to prove hes innocent of sexual misconduct. Then a lost cellphone is found. He knew two men had just drowned in the Chesapeake Bay. He waded in at the same spot anyway. First, his father slipped beneath the Chesapeake Bays waters. Then his uncle disappeared, too. Clashes erupted this month between Kurdish fighters and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), with each side claiming to have inflicted casualties on the other. The country's heavily censored media have even reported the fighting and acknowledged fatalities on the government side. But why the sudden flare-up? Who is fighting and how widespread is the violence? The past two weeks of fighting have reportedly pitted official forces against members of the Kurdish Democratic Party of Iran (KDPI), with deadly clashes between the IRGC and Kurdish rebels in heavily Kurdish northwestern Iran, near the border with Iraq. Combat was reported on June 15-16 in Oshnavieh, in Iran's West Azerbaijan Province. More fighting followed in the nearby Sarvabad, Mahabad, and Marivan regions. On June 28, the IRGC said its forces had killed 11 Kurdish rebels in the Sarvabad region. An IRGC commander, Mohammad Hossein Rajabi, said three of his troops were also killed in the clashes. The KDPI claims that several of its fighters and more than 20 IRGC members have been killed, and it accuses Iranian forces of shelling villages on the border over the weekend. What are the militants after, and why now? The KDPI has been waging a battle for independence and greater rights for Iranian Kurds for decades. The KDPI's military operations and confrontation with the Iranian regime surged following the 1989 assassination of the party's leader, Abdol Rahman Ghassemlou. But the group, whose fighters are mostly based in northern Iraq, announced a cease-fire in 1997. The fresh clashes follow an announcement by the KDPI's secretary-general, Mostafa Hejri, urging Kurdish youths to join its ranks and unite "the struggle in the cities and in the mountains." Hejri's statement, made in March to mark the Persian New Year, Norouz, was interpreted as a call to renew the armed struggle against Iran. But KDPI officials have suggested that the group is merely trying to expand its contacts with Kurds inside Iran and recruit new forces. "We are not trying to launch a war -- the war with the Islamic republic [Iran] has been going on for the past 37 years," Rostam Jahangiri, a member of the political office of the KDPI, told RFE/RL last week in a reference to the postrevolutionary establishment nearly four decades ago of Iran's theocratic government. Kamran Matin, a senior lecturer in international relations at the University of Sussex, says the KDPI claims it no longer has to sacrifice its own interests -- meaning Iranian Kurds' interests -- to ensure the security of Iraq's Kurdistan regional government. "They feel it's time for them to be present inside Iranian Kurdistan," Matin says of the heavily Kurdish region of Iran. "It's important to note that they don't claim they have initiated a new round of armed struggle. They claim they simply send their troops to be present, they're acting in self-defense. But then, in military terms, if an armed group is inside Iranian territory, it's highly likely to be attacked by the Iranian security forces." Stockholm-based journalist Saman Rasoulpour says the KDPI's leadership appears to believe that confrontation with Iranian forces might win the group new supporters among Iran's estimated 8 million Kurds, who have long complained of discrimination, repression, and political underrepresentation. "The leaders of this party believe that military activities -- which according to their interpretation are defensive actions [against Iranian forces] -- is a sign of a party's dynamism that could strengthen their base within the population," Rasoulpour says. "In a way, in their eyes, armed struggle means that they're active and that they can create challenges for the [Iranian] establishment," he adds. KDPI officials have signaled that the group's fighters will continue their excursions into Iranian territory. "Our party is determined to fulfill our pledge to interlock the struggle [of the Kurdish forces] in the mountains with the struggle [of the Kurdish people] in the cities," Hejri was quoted as saying by the KDPI's website on June 19. What are Iranian authorities saying publicly about the violence? IRGC commanders have said they have been fighting "terrorists with ties to counterrevolutionary groups." The IRGC has warned that its forces are carefully monitoring "any movement" in the border region and will not allow the "sustainable peace and security" of the people to be disrupted by "terrorists." The commander of IRGC ground forces, Mohammad Pakpour, has warned that Iran could launch raids on KDPI positions in Iraq's Kurdistan region. "Since the main bases of these terrorists is in northern Iraq, if they fail to act on their commitments not to engage in anti-security measures, their bases will be targeted wherever they are," Pakpour was quoted as saying by domestic media earlier this week. In 2011, Iran targeted the camps in Iraq of another Kurdish rebel group, the Party of Free Life Of Kurdistan (PJAK). Does this fighting represent any genuine threat to Iran? Despite claims by KDPI leaders about the group's strength and support among Iranian Kurds, analysts generally agree it does not possess the capability to pose a serious military threat to Iran. "The KDPI doesn't have that level of force to conquer territory and hold it or to inflict massive casualties on Iranian troops, simply because of the demographic proportion of the Kurdish population in Iran. Also because they have not been engaged in military activities for almost two decades, so even on a very simple military training [level], they're not really ready to cause any large-scale problems for the Iranian state," analyst Matin says. Is this in any way related to Iranian military involvement elsewhere in the region? The clashes are not likely to affect Iran's involvement in Syria. If the violence in northeastern Iran continues and Tehran acts on its pledge to attack KDPI bases inside Iran's Kurdish region, that could create tensions in the region. Matin says it remains to be seen how Iraq, the United States, and countries such as Turkey will react. "It can escalate," he says. But Matin speculates that Iraqi Kurdish parties, due to their "strategic dependence" on Iran, are unlikely to allow the KDPI to continue its operations against Iran "for any extended period of time." The Anacostia River has once again received failing grades from an environmental advocacy group that says it based its ratings on levels of toxins and trash and other issues. Jim Foster, president of the Anacostia Watershed Society, said this week that despite a $5 billion cleanup over the past two decades, much work remains to be done. Every time there is a heavy rain, the citys 140-year-old sewer system gets overwhelmed, and raw sewage pours into the Anacostia by design, said Foster, who conducted a boat tour Wednesday to coincide with the societys 2016 State of the River report card on the rivers environmental health. The Anacostia received six Fs, for levels of oxygen, water clarity, underwater vegetation, storm water runoff, toxins and trash, the society issued a D-minus for the level of fecal bacteria, a C-minus for levels of chlorophyll which can affect dissolved oxygen and a C-plus for the overall effort to clean up the river. Foster said he remains upbeat that the situation will improve, largely because of the ongoing construction of a multimillion-dollar drainage system in the District intended to ensure that raw sewage goes to the citys Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant. The people in this community deserve the Anacostia River, and I am optimistic that we have laid the groundwork for its success, Foster said. In 2004, the society filed a lawsuit against the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission alleging that the WSSC was violating the federal Clean Water Act by allowing sewers to overflow into Maryland streams and rivers. Citing WSSC data, the lawsuit charged that from 2001 to 2004, the sewer network had 445 overflows that dumped more than 91 million gallons of raw sewage into streams and rivers in Montgomery and Prince Georges counties. As a result, millions of dollars have been spent to upgrade the system, and earlier this year, officials from the District and Montgomery and Prince Georges counties were given awards for their efforts to clean up the Anacostia River. But every time it rains, as it did Tuesday afternoon, Foster said, The combined sewer system in the District which handles sewage and storm water continues to pour raw sewage into the river. I want this river cleaned up so bad I can taste it, said Foster as he drove his boat back to the dock. On a good day, everything goes to Blue Plains, but I tell congressmen that when it rains and they go to the bathroom, it goes straight to the Anacostia River. This handout picture released by the Italian Navy shows divers near the wreck of a fishing boat which sank in the Mediterranean sea last April. (Str/AFP/Getty Images) ITALY Migrant boat that sank in 2015 is recovered The Italian navy has raised from the seafloor the migrant ship that sank off Sicily last year with an estimated 700 to 800 people aboard in one of the worst known tragedies of the Mediterranean migrant crisis. The navy said it had recovered the boat from a depth of about 1,200 feet using a complicated pulley system. The resurfaced wreck is being kept in a refrigerated transport module for the trip back to port in Sicily, where forensic experts will try to identify the dead. The April 18, 2015, wreck remains one of the deadliest on record, though the real number of drownings may never be known. On that night, the boat carrying 700 to 800 migrants, most of them African, capsized as a civilian freighter approached. Most passengers were locked below decks; only 28 survived. The sinking sparked renewed outrage and soul-searching in European capitals, which agreed to send in European Union naval reinforcements to cast a wider safety net to try to rescue the waves of migrants leaving Libya on smugglers boats. While tens of thousands have been rescued, thousands have drowned. The U.N. refugee agency estimates that since April 19, 2015, about 4,927 people have perished making the sea crossing to Europe. Associated Press MEXICO Supplies running out amid teachers protests Business leaders and government officials said Wednesday that supplies of gasoline, food and other goods are running out in southern Mexico because protesting teachers have blockaded key highways. Tourism is one of the key economic activities in the southern states of Oaxaca and Chiapas, and it has been hit severely by the protests. Mexicos Interior Department said that only about 5 percent of hotel rooms in the colonial city of Oaxaca were occupied. Normally at this time of year, Oaxaca is gearing up for next months annual Guelaguetza folklore festival, which usually draws hundreds of thousands of tourists. The department said there were severe shortages of even the most basic goods, including food and medicine, in many areas. The supply of gasoline in the southern state of Chiapas was expected to completely run out Wednesday. Groups of protesters, sometimes just a handful of people, have blocked highways at about three dozen places. They have sometimes let cars pass but have refused to allow freight and tanker trucks through. The protesters oppose new laws that require testing of teachers and weaken their unions control over hiring. The Interior Department said the blockades had caused many businesses to lose 80 percent of normal sales, putting thousands of jobs at risk. Associated Press Putin extends ban on imports of Western food: President Vladimir Putin has extended Russias ban on imports of Western food until the end of 2017. The decree comes as the European Union is preparing to extend sanctions against Russia for six months. Russias preemptive move reflects irritation about the E.U.s reluctance to lift the penalties. The E.U. followed Washington in slapping Russia with sanctions after its annexation of Ukraines Crimean Peninsula and support for insurgents in eastern Ukraine. Russia retaliated by banning most Western food imports. Gunmen kill 8 security personnel in Pakistan: Gunmen ambushed army and police patrols in the Pakistani city of Quetta, killing eight security personnel, officials said. Two gunmen on a motorcycle attacked an army vehicle in a market, killing four soldiers and wounding a civilian, a paramilitary spokesman said. Four police officers were shot by militants, a police spokesman said. Quetta is the capital of Baluchistan province, home to a low-level ethnic separatist insurgency and Islamist extremist groups. U.S. gives Iraq $2.7 billion credit for military equipment: The United States has extended a $2.7 billion credit facility to Iraq for the purchase of military equipment amid the ongoing fight against the Islamic State militant group. The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad said the deal gives Iraq a one-year grace period and 8 years total to pay for its purchases of ammunition and maintenance of its F-16s and M1A1 tanks. Iraqs economy has been severely hit by plummeting crude-oil prices since 2014. U.N. increases troop levels in Mali by 2,500: The U.N. Security Council voted to increase the United Nations peacekeeping force in Mali by more than 2,500 troops, a move aimed at countering increasing attacks by Islamist extremists on civilians and peacekeepers and more aggressively enabling a peace agreement between the government and rebels. From news services With his June 26 op-ed, A welcome revival of nationhood, George F. Will joined presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in welcoming Britains decision to leave the European Union. Mr. Will mocked the predictions of calamities that would result, but those predictions are coming true with worldwide stock market turmoil and the British pounds decline . Ironically, the revival of nationhood that Mr. Will praised could result in the breakup of the United Kingdom if Scotland and Northern Ireland choose to exit to preserve their E.U. membership. Mr. Will was right about one thing: The vote was one of the most important events in postwar European history, but not in the way he described it. Instead of bringing about the revival of nationhood, Brexit will cause economic and political disruptions that will gravely weaken Britain, the rest of Europe and the United States. Lawrence Walders, Chevy Chase Jim Obergefell, the lead plaintiff in the landmark same-sex-marriage case, smiles outside the Supreme Court after the justices ruled that marriage is a constitutional right in June 2015. (Jim Lo Scalzo/European Pressphoto Agency) Sally Kohn is a CNN political commentator and an essayist. Damn you, Debbie Cenziper and Jim Obergefell, for making me want to get married. Despite the gay rights movement successfully foregrounding marriage as a mainstream aspiration for same-sex couples, and the legislative and legal achievements that followed, I managed to stay quite comfortable with my radical queer politics of anti-marriage cynicism until I read Love Wins: The Lovers and Lawyers Who Fought the Landmark Case for Marriage Equality. Although I have what might otherwise look like a conventional family monogamous partner, kid, dog, too much debt Im proud of the fact that weve defined the parameters of our family on our own terms, rather than conforming to, let alone seeking the approval of, some state-sanctioned heteronormative box. And consciously rejecting the sanctimony of marriage can make one feel downright sanctimonious, more and more so as everyone and their lesbian mother is getting gay-married around you (though, I should note, not actually marrying their mothers slippery-slope warnings to the contrary). But I still cry at weddings. And even when reading about them, apparently. Co-author Obergefell was the named plaintiff in Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark case in which the Supreme Court held just a year ago, in June 2015, that the Constitution extends the fundamental right to marry to all Americans, including same-sex couples. Though Love Wins is embellished with stories of other gay and lesbian couples whose cases were consolidated into the ruling, it is Obergefells own story that is not only the books primary narrative but its most wrenching. His story was, of course, central in the litigation leading up to and surrounding the Supreme Court verdict. But even the most moving stories tend to seem like utilitarian footnotes in constitutional jurisprudence. Love Wins manages to recount the technical details of the court cases while emphasizing the human stories at their center. Its a living, breathing tribute to the lives of those whose testimony formed the backbone of world-altering change. And Love Wins is also a quiet reminder of how much plaintiffs sacrifice, how much of themselves they give and expose, in order to win that change. Obergefell fell in love with his partner, John Arthur, and then, 19 years into their relationship, Arthur developed ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrigs disease. Obergefell and Cenziper, a Washington Post reporter, achingly describe the progression of the illness: Left shoulder. Left arm. Left fingers. Jim started coaxing Johns twitching arms into a dress shirt every morning before work. In 2013, two years after the diagnosis, with Arthurs health seriously degrading, the Supreme Court struck down a key section of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, and Obergefell and Arthur decided to get married. It wasnt at all easy. It took a $12,000 chartered medical flight from their home in Ohio to Maryland, where same-sex marriage was then legal. But they did it. I give you my heart, my soul, and everything I am, Obergefell said in his vows, in the medical plane on the tarmac touching Maryland soil. I am honored to call you my husband. He and Cenziper paint the raw picture of Arthurs response: With. This. Ring. I. Thee. Wed, John said, careful not to trip on the words. In July 2013, Jim Obergefell and John Arthur got married. In October 2013, just three months later, John Arthur died. Obergefell, at the urging of a dogged civil rights attorney named Al Gerhardstein, sued the state of Ohio simply to be listed on Arthurs death certificate. The rest, as they say, is history. Also history? The entire box of tissues I used up just getting to this part of the book. And though Love Wins centers on Obergefell and Arthurs story which became a historical given when Obergefell became the named plaintiff of the Supreme Court case, but also because of the moving details of their lives the book eventually folds in stories of other gay and lesbian families. The mother who almost cant get emergency medical care for her baby because shes not the mom on the birth certificate. The children who want their dads relationship to be treated the same as those of all the other parents they know. And to the extent that much of the opposition to marriage equality demonizes same-sex couples as dangerous monsters, Love Wins responds with almost painfully normal portraits: We try to distract our little ones with iPads, just like you would during hours-long oral arguments. Love Wins is by no means a flawless treatise. I was stunned that, throughout a book about the quest to have same-sex marriages recognized and treated as equal to opposite-sex marriages, the authors repeatedly noted when characters were black or Latino but otherwise left whiteness to be assumed. In the second dominant narrative of the book, that of the lawyer Gerhardstein, Cenziper and Obergefell recount his failed efforts to challenge a ballot measure passed by Cincinnati voters to repeal the citys gay rights ordinance. The writers note that on the second day of the trial, Gerhardstein called Kenneth Sherrill, a political science professor at Hunter College in New York and an expert on gay and lesbian politics. Sherrill, were meant to assume (correctly), is white. But on the third day of the trial, they write, Gerhardstein questioned African American lawyer Jerome Culp, the son of a Pennsylvania coal miner who had earned a Harvard law degree and gone on to teach employment and labor law at Duke University. Similarly, in describing Michael De Leon, one of the plaintiffs in the larger consolidated case, Cenziper and Obergefell write that he has black hair and mocha-colored skin inherited from his Mexican ancestors. I couldnt find a single instance in the book where the authors noted the race of Obergefell and Arthur, nor for that matter any of the other white defendants. I dont make this point to be picky but because it rattled me and tripped me up, especially given the books presumptive purpose. Heteronormativity be damned, but racial normativity endures. Its a reminder that one can be chipping away at one form of implicit hierarchy while simultaneously reinforcing others. Few are immune from this, myself included. This critique aside, Love Wins is a downright joy to read. Its a rare and special feeling to be alive for moments of world-changing history, let alone to get to so quickly yet thoroughly reflect on what led to those moments. And in my experience from law school onward, its even more rare to read a book about a historic Supreme Court case that makes you cry. And (almost) makes you want to rush out and join history, damn it. Sally Kohn is a CNN political commentator and an essayist. Boat docks sit empty on dry land near Sacramento on Sept. 17, 2015, because of Californias severe drought conditions. (Mark Ralston/Agence France-Presse via Getty Images) Even as new research from Stanford University suggests drought-stricken California has a bonanza of underground water in areas where oil companies operate, state regulators are planning to ask the Environmental Protection Agency to exempt a substantial number of aquifers from rules meant to prevent oil industry pollution [Study: California sitting on vast water reserve, Politics & the Nation, June 28]. Californias Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources has already asked the EPA to exempt one aquifer in San Luis Obispo County from protection under the Safe Drinking Water Act. A recently released work plan shows that officials are contemplating submitting aquifer exemption applications for as many as 60 other underground sources of drinking water. If the EPA approves these exemption applications, oil companies would be allowed to operate injection wells and dump oil waste fluid in these water sources. Oil wastewater commonly contains cancer-causing benzene, according to testing by regulators and oil companies. The EPA must push California Gov. Jerry Browns (D) regulators to reverse course on this irresponsible plan. If we let oil companies contaminate these aquifers and endanger nearby water resources, Californians will bitterly regret this decision in the dry decades to come. Maya Golden-Krasner, Altadena, Calif. The writer is a lawyer for the Center for Biological Diversitys Climate Law Institute. Dina Temple-Raston is NPRs counter-terrorism correspondent and is the author of four non-fiction books including A Death in Texas and The Jihad Next Door. If someone had asked me to choose figures in national security, dead or alive, to include in a small dinner party, Eleanor Roosevelt and Fiorello La Guardia probably wouldnt have jumped to mind. To be sure, there are plenty of other reasons to include the two of them at the table, but before I picked up Matthew Dalleks immensely readable Defenseless Under the Night, I wouldnt have said that national security was one of them. Defenseless is a meticulous account of an epic battle that set Roosevelt, the first lady, against La Guardia, the mayor of New York, as the two created the countrys first Office of Civilian Defense (OCD), the precursor to what we know today as the Department of Homeland Security. Their differences were stark and revolved around the very meaning of civil defense in the run-up to World War II. Roosevelt was convinced that the best way to defend America was to ensure that a fifth column could never get a toehold. As she saw it, if citizens were housed, clothed and fed, theyd never consider embracing fascism. La Guardia, for his part, thought such an enterprise was too soft. The best defense against Hitler, he reasoned, was to militarize ordinary Americans and create a citizens army that could protect the home front as a fourth military branch. Long before the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Dallek writes, the U.S. military was agitating for a battle-ready America. The argument at the time was that Hitler was able to march across Europe because its citizens were complacent. La Guardia vowed and, to a degree, President Franklin Roosevelt agreed that America could not afford to make the same mistake. Military leaders began recruiting thousands of farmers, housewives and shopkeepers to run invasion drills up and down the Eastern Seaboard, and dispatching ordinary citizens to stand in hundreds of watchtowers along the Atlantic and to record and track planes buzzing the hills around them. The Army started running air-raid drills, Dallek writes, to make clear that the contagion of European war could spread to communities long thought safe from such microbes. Playwright Archibald MacLeish added to the hysteria with his radio drama Air Raid. The show started with children at play, Dallek writes. Sirens whined. Bombs whizzed through the air. Children screamed. . . . All of these radio dramas, coupled with real-world signs that Europe stood on the brink of a catastrophe, created a mood within the United States that made tales of mass panic so believable. . . . People wondered how rational thought would survive when millions of citizens felt besieged with a dread of modern life. Americans asked how democracy would withstand the unprecedented power of Hitlers military might and fascist appeal. "Defenseless Under the Night: The Roosevelt Years and the Origins of Homeland Security" by Matthew Dallek (Oxford Univ. ) Eleanor Roosevelt was convinced that her remarkable relationship with the American people a kind of soft power on steriods would prevent that from happening. She encouraged them to write her letters so she could solve their problems. The poor wrote to her about needing winter coats or medical care or better housing, and then were surprised to discover that the first lady not only read their letters but responded to them as well. Ordinary citizens asked her to find them roles paid and unpaid to help protect the nation. It was in those letters that she saw the basis of a grand bargain: If Americans were willing to create a bulwark against Hitlerism, as she called it, then the government was duty bound to provide Americans with tangible evidence that confirmed why democracy was better. That meant not just equal rights for African Americans or equality for women both of which she championed but also the enactment of a broader social contract in which even the poor and working classes would feel that the government was caring for them. Roosevelt believed the solution lay in having Americans simply live their values. One of her most controversial proposals of 1940 was for Congress to pass New Deal-type legislation that mandated national service for all Americans. These social soldiers, Dallek writes, would acquire new skills, doing work that benefited their communities. We have too long taken our freedom and liberties for granted and have given nothing in return, she explained. Critics on the right said the plan smacked of totalitarianism; those on the left saw it as compulsory military training. Her proposal had no chance in Congress, Dallek writes, but her campaign both stoked and reflected the grassroots disquiet in the country. La Guardia, from his perch inside New Yorks City Hall, saw civil defense as an extension of what cities including his were already doing. By his reckoning, to fight the enemies goose-stepping their way across Europe, America needed to create a government-civilian partnership that essentially militarized the lives of ordinary Americans. He proposed training big city workers as volunteer firefighters and teaching them to handle a chemical weapons attack, Dallek writes. He recommended distributing gas masks to 50 million civilians, putting a mobile water pump on every city block, and establishing five volunteer fire brigades for every city brigade. La Guardias view undoubtedly grew out of his time as an airman in World War I. During the war, La Guardia trained U.S. and Italian pilots, flew combat missions, survived plane crashes and emerged with a deep-seated fear of the power of air campaigns. He studied the effects of air power on the war and after the armistice returned to the United States a pacifist. He argued that in any new war, the civilian population in large and industrial centers and distant from the battle line [would] suffer more than the military forces in actual conflict. As a result, La Guardias vision for the OCD like the mayor himself was bold. Among other things, he wanted the head of the new office to have the authority to establish a national police force, something he thought could serve as a fourth military branch. La Guardia envisioned millions of civilians enlisted in a quasi-army. Mayors and governors would need to adopt civil defense plans set out by the OCD. Eventually, it was less their competing visions for civil defense than good old-fashioned politics that led to the unraveling of the Roosevelt -La Guardia partnership. In 1942, the president relieved them both of their jobs at the OCD. The first lady had critics who said her social defense was nothing more than social engineering, but she had been able to weather their objections. In the end, it was her decision to hire a friend, dancer Mayris Chaney, to lead a dance program to build childrens morale that forced the president to let her go. She had offered Chaney $4,600 a year to lead the program, a sum that seemed astronomical at the time. Chaneys salary affronted Americans who were being bombarded with calls to sacrifice their time (and, in some cases, risk their lives) in defense of their democracy for little or no pay, Dallek writes. Almost overnight, Roosevelt became, in the words of one columnist at the time, the most discussed person in America. (Back then, as opposed to now, apparently, that was a death knell for a political figure.) By early 1942, La Guardia was under fire, too. Critics blasted him for neglecting his work as mayor of New York (he never stepped down from that job) to run home defense. Whats more, the fearmongering that had become his signature in the run-up to the war now proved to be too much. His inflammatory rhetoric did more to stoke mass fears of enemy attacks than unite the public behind a sensible war strategy, Dallek writes. The president concluded that La Guardia, too, had to go. He accepted his letter of resignation just days after the first lady stepped down. While Roosevelt and La Guardia both lost their jobs, Dallek makes clear that the epic battle between them wasnt without purpose: They ignited an important conversation about liberalism and its role in times of crisis. And while they never really found the perfect balance between civil liberties and national security, they made sure that people would discuss it for decades to come perhaps even at dinner parties. IN 1941, Franklin D. Roosevelt articulated four fundamental human freedoms. Now, 75 years later, one of the countrys largest food producers has made a commitment to a similar set of principles but this time, the focus is on chickens. Maryland-based poultry producer Perdue Foods announced an animal-welfare overhaul Monday that would bring the company in line with globally recognized guidelines known as the five freedoms of animal welfare. The precedent-setting changes Perdue is the first major U.S. poultry producer to hold itself to so strict a standard signal a welcome shift in American attitudes toward animal rights. To spare farm fowl from discomfort, disease and distress, as the five freedoms demand, Perdue plans to make cramped coops look more like playpens. In addition to outfitting enclosures with haystacks, hiding places and perches, the company will reduce the number of birds in each barn and install windows to let in more natural light. Perdue will also put chickens to sleep before slaughter. Perhaps most important, Perdue has promised to reverse a troubling breeding trend: Many birds are genetically engineered to balloon in size until their organs fail or their legs break under their own weight. Eventually, Perdue will replace these strains of chicken with new, more natural lines though the company has yet to set a timeline for the transition. In the past, Perdue has come under fire from animal rights advocacy groups for mistreating its chickens. But the company developed its new policies in concert with many of its old adversaries. The change of heart isnt just a response to criticism: Its also an answer to increased calls from consumers to know where their food comes from. More and more food sellers refuse to stock meat that comes from maltreated animals. The same is true of Americans picking what to put on their dining room tables. Perdues revised practices might raise the cost of production, but it doesnt matter how cheaply a company produces meat if no one wants to buy it. Thats all the more reason for Perdues competitors to take a tip from the company and improve the treatment of their chickens, just as they did when Perdue vowed to eliminate antibiotics from its birds a few years ago. Its also a sign that Congress should consider passing a law to protect poultry the same way it does other livestock through the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act. We are going to go beyond what a chicken needs and give chickens what they want, Jim Perdue said of his companys commitments. It is hard to say exactly what a chicken wants. But its easy enough to realize, as Perdue has, what the animals deserve. We hope others will follow suit. Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President at the National Gallery of Canada at the start of the North American Leaders Summit in Ottawa on Wednesday. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters) Mack McLarty, chief of staff to President Bill Clinton from 1993 to 1994, is chairman of McLarty Associates, a global business consulting firm. Nelson Cunningham was a special adviser to President Clinton on Western Hemisphere affairs and is president of McLarty Associates. North America the continent has been here for tens of millions of years. North America as a political idea never quite arrived. But North America the economic powerhouse has reigned supreme for nearly a century, becoming the largest and strongest in the world, an industrial dynamo, a commodities cornucopia and a magnet for millions upon millions of immigrants seeking a better life. But we may be about to witness the end of the supremacy of that North American economy. North America has prospered because Canada, the United States and Mexico are tightly integrated markets. Factories in Mexico produce goods for its neighbors to the north. Factories near the border of Canada and the United States are so dependent on each other that the parts of a North American automobile have crossed the border an average of seven times before it rolls off the final assembly line. North America has also prospered because its populations have mixed and mingled. Those living on each side of our northern border have similar polyglot immigrant backgrounds, the same drive for success, the same frontier spirit that developed their great collective heartland. Those living on each side of our southern border share rich cultures based on faith, family and hard work. On Wednesday, the leaders of Canada, Mexico and the United States, representing a combined 475 million people, came together in Ottawa to discuss climate change and other vital issues. But they needed to and did set their sights higher. For we North Americans need bold action from our leaders to fight back against a clear and present danger to our well-being: the dissolution of our great North American economy. Last weeks Brexit vote lends a fresh urgency to this task. What is this threat? It is the resurgence in the United States of protectionism and isolationism, nativism and xenophobia. We see elements of each of these across the political spectrum. They find their strongest embodiment, however, in the candidacy of Donald Trump. His meteoric rise to become the presumptive Republican nominee for president is premised in large part on his promise to dismantle the cooperation across borders that is the foundation of our economic security. Trumps policies would have a radical impact on our neighbors. He promises to impose a tax of 20 percent, 35 percent or more on goods imported from Mexico, Canada and other countries. He would dissolve the North American Free Trade Agreement and restore hundreds of protectionist measures. He would ban immigration and visits from a million Canadian adherents of Islam, its second-largest religion. He would redo NATO, with untold implications for its unified North American defense systems linking U.S. and Canadian armed forces. And, most famously, he has vowed to build a wall on the Mexican border (and to force Mexico to pay for it). If enacted, these policies themselves would slow the U.S. economy. And they would surely provoke reactions from our neighbors, exacerbating the damage. Mexico has its own nativist and protectionist traditions. A Canada barred from our markets would have incentive to retaliate and look elsewhere, principally to China, its second-largest trading partner. There is no doubt that NAFTA and foreign trade have long been controversial in the United States. Sen. Bernie Sanderss campaign was fueled by protectionist concerns as much as Trumps. Support for free trade has waned across the board, with Republican congressional leaders resisting President Obamas 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement, and Hillary Clinton expressing her own reservations. And yet, by many measures the North American economies have never been stronger. Taken together, they are substantially larger than those of China or the European Union. Since 2010, the United States has added 1 million manufacturing jobs. Meanwhile, exports to Canada support more than 1.5 million jobs in the United States. In Mexico, the manufacturing sector is forecast to grow nearly 4 percent per year over the next 18 years. The North American industrial renaissance benefiting from cheap and abundant energy and commodities, competitive wages for highly skilled workers, and the largest internal market in the world has been rightly celebrated. Many leading American companies are championing the trend toward reshoring and near-shoring bringing production back to the NAFTA countries from Asia and other markets. Meanwhile, the North American populations reside in a unique demographic sweet spot: They are old enough to have savings but young enough to have energetic workers and consumers. Compared with aging populations in China, Japan and Europe, or the too-young populations of the less developed world, North America has just the right balance. Why? Because of our open and flexible immigration policies. President Obama, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had a formal agenda in Ottawa, working to confront the challenges of securing our borders, harmonizing national regulations and coordinating action on climate change. But standing together in front of the media, they rose to the further challenge posed by protectionism and nativism. They made clear that vows to destroy the North American economic alliance feed dangerous illusions that will leave each country weaker in the face of fierce global competition. In the months ahead, we will need more such leadership. We share this continent, and our common future is at stake. Smoke rises from a warplane bomb that dropped in Aleppo, Syria, on June 4. (Uncredited/Civil Defense Directorate in Liberated Province of Aleppo via Associated Press) The Obama administration has proposed a new agreement on Syria to the Russian government that would deepen military cooperation between the two countries against some terrorists in exchange for Russia getting the Assad regime to stop bombing U.S.-supported rebels. The United States transmitted the text of the proposed agreement to the Russian government on Monday after weeks of negotiations and internal Obama administration deliberations, an administration official told me. The crux of the deal is a U.S. promise to join forces with the Russian air force to share targeting and coordinate an expanded bombing campaign against Jabhat al-Nusra, al-Qaedas branch in Syria, which is primarily fighting the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Under the proposal, which was personally approved by President Obama and heavily supported by Secretary of State John F. Kerry, the American and Russian militaries would cooperate at an unprecedented level, something the Russians have sought for a long time. In exchange, the Russians would agree to pressure the Assad regime to stop bombing certain Syrian rebel groups the United States does not consider terrorists. The United States would not give Russia the exact locations of these groups, under the proposal, but would specify geographic zones that would be safe from the Assad regimes aerial assaults. Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter was opposed to this plan, officials said, but was ultimately compelled to go along with the presidents decision. For many inside and outside the administration who are frustrated with the White Houses decision-making on Syria, the new plan is fatally flawed for several reasons. One big flaw is that its clear that the Russians have no intent to put heavy pressure on Assad, said former U.S. ambassador to Syria Robert Ford. And in those instances when the Russians have put pressure on, theyve gotten minimal results from the Syrians. Theres not enough reliable intelligence to distinguish Jabhat al-Nusra targets from the other rebel groups they often live near, Ford said. And even if the Syrians agreed not to bomb certain zones, there would be no way to stop Jabhat al-Nusra and other groups from moving around to adjust. Moreover, increased bombing of Jabhat al-Nusra would be likely to cause collateral damage including civilian deaths, which would only bolster the groups local support. It makes no sense to me, said Ford. If they are trying to destroy al-Qaeda in Syria, do they really think bombing them is the way to do it? F-16s do not solve recruitment problems with extremist groups. One administration official complained that the plan contains no consequences for the Russians or the Assad regime if they dont hold up their end of the bargain. Fifty-one U.S. diplomats signed a dissent letter this month calling on the White House to use targeted military force against the Assad regime as a means of increasing the pressure on Assad and giving the U.S. real leverage. Kerry has been threatening for months that if Assad doesnt respect the current cease-fire, known as the cessation of hostilities, that there was a Plan B of increasing arms to the Syrian rebels. But the White House has now scuttled that plan in favor of the proposed Russia deal, which could actually leave the rebels in a far worse position. Because most Jabhat al-Nusra fighters are fighting Assad, if the plan succeeds, Assad will be in a much better position. Meanwhile, the other Sunni Arab groups that are left fighting Assad will be in a much weaker position, said Andrew Tabler, senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. The strategy could allow Assad to capture Aleppo, which would be a huge victory for his side in the civil war. If the U.S. and Russia open up on Jabhat al-Nusra, that changes the dynamics on the ground in Aleppo and Idlib, he said. It would definitely benefit the Assad regime and it could potentially benefit the Kurds and ISIS. For Russia, the deal is not just about Syria. Russian President Vladimir Putin sees increased military cooperation as an acknowledgment of Russian importance and a way to gradually unwind Russias isolation following the Russian military intervention in Ukraine. Thats why Carter was initially opposed to the plan, officials said. The Russians have made it very clear that they want military-to-military cooperation with the U.S., not just to fight terrorism, but to improve their world standing, said Tabler. It is a way to be welcomed back into the fold. State Department spokesman John Kirby declined to comment on the specifics of the proposal but defended its basic principles. We have been clear about Russias obligations to ensure regime compliance with the cessation of hostilities. We have also been clear about the danger posed by al-Qaeda in Syria to our own national security, he said. We are looking at a number of measures to address both of these issues. For the White House, the priority in Syria is not solving the Syrian civil war, which most White House officials believe is intractable, or forcing the ouster of Assad. Senior administration officials admit that Russia and Assad are violating the cease-fire and failing to show the will to advance the political process. But the White House has decided not to go back to the plan of increasing pressure on the Assad regime. Analytically speaking, the path of military escalation by one side or the other is not likely to lead to a final outcome in Syria, one senior administration official told me. Its essentially a stalemate. The White House wants to keep the cease-fire in place for as long as possible, despite the violations, and wants to keep the political process going, despite the lack of progress. We want to keep the violence as low as possible for as long as possible, the official said. What we have to look at is, what is the alternative? And the alternative is either the levels of violence that we saw months ago . . . or we could see the violence get even worse. CIA Director John Brennan said Wednesday in remarks at the Council on Foreign Relations that Russia is trying to crush anti-Assad forces and that Moscow has not lived up to its commitments regarding the cease-fire or the political process in Syria. Nevertheless, Brennan said, the United States needs to work with Russia. Theres going to be no way forward on the political front without active Russian cooperation and genuine Russian interest in moving forward, he said. If the price of getting Russia on board with the Syrian political process is to further abandon the Syrian rebels and hand Assad large swaths of territory, its a bad deal. Its an even worse deal if Russia takes the U.S. offer and then doesnt deliver on its corresponding obligations. The Obama administration is understandably trying to find some creative way to salvage its Syria policy in its final months. But the proposal that Obama offered Putin will have costs for the U.S. position vis-a-vis Russia as well as for the Syrian crisis long after Obama leaves office. Steven Pearlstein is a Washington Post business and economics writer. He is also the Robinson Professor of Public Affairs at George Mason University. Ever since the breakthrough success of Tim Harfords The Undercover Economist more than a decade ago, theres been a growing cottage industry of economists writing books that use stories and events from everyday life to illustrate economic principles and theories many people thought they couldnt understand. This demystification and democratization of economics has been a good thing (I use Harfords book in my own class at George Mason). But at this point, the genre has become annoyingly formulaic and simplistic, stripped of sophistication, intellectual richness and even economic relevance. Moreover, in the search for a fresh and compelling theme, there is the unfortunate tendency for authors to overreach, to try to explain too much on the basis of too little. That, alas, is the problem with the latest entry in this category, Ray Fisman and Tim Sullivans The Inner Lives of Markets. Fisman is an economist at Boston University and a contributor at Slate. Sullivan is an well-traveled book editor now at the Harvard Business Review Press. Together, they set out to identify the most important economic journal articles of the past 60 years and explain to the layman not only how they changed the professions thinking about how markets work, but how these insights have allowed us to perfect markets and expand their role, thereby transforming our lives in ways both good and bad. The economists and the insights are well known, if for no other reason than almost all have been cited by the Nobel jury. There is John von Neumann and Oskar Morgensterns work laying the foundation for game theory, which played a central role in nuclear arms control and has allowed economists ever since to understand and model the dynamic nature of markets. There are Paul Samuelson, Robert Solow, Kenneth Arrow and Gerard Debreu, who brought mathematical precision to the task of constructing elegant models of the whole economy. There is George Akerlofs seemingly innocuous insight about the asymmetry of information between buyers and sellers in the market for used cars, one that opened up whole new avenues of research into the ways individual markets are imperfectly competitive and lead to less-than-optimal results. We learn about Michael Spences observation that the value of a Harvard degree lay not in what students learned in class but in what it signaled about the intelligence and diligence of students who were admitted and how that got economists thinking about the importance of trust and reliability in markets, and how those are created. There is the story of William Vickreys clever modification to the sealed-bid auction the high bidder wins but pays the price offered by the second-highest and Jean Tiroles insight about two sided markets that helps explain why banks offer free credit cards and Google provides free searches. And we learn how Lloyd Shapley, David Gale and Al Roths curiosity about the way people chose mates or colleges led to dramatic improvement in the way students are assigned to public schools, doctors are assigned to residencies and healthy kidneys allocated to people who desperately need them. "The Inner Lives of Markets: How People Shape ThemAnd They Shape Us" by Ray Fisman and Tim Sullivan (PublicAffairs) Fisman and Sullivan are at their best as intellectual historians, chronicling the evolution in economics from neoclassical models based on perfect competition and rational behavior to one that accommodates market failures resulting from imperfect competition, strategic behavior and irrationality. But even in that, they wind up giving a superficial account while belaboring the real-world anecdotes and examples that ostensibly were meant to inform the economic insight, not supplant it. More significantly, they fall into the now-common trap of letting their fascination with companies that are revolutionizing certain sectors of the economy companies such as Amazon (whose founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post), eBay, Google, Uber and Airbnb blind them to the reality that the bulk of the economy still revolves around more humdrum enterprises and markets. While the insights of economists certainly help to explain the success of those firms, it is more than a stretch to argue that those economists are responsible for the creation of those companies and their game-changing business models. Fisman and Sullivan strain their credibility even more when they try to connect the new economic thinking to what they see as an epic battle now playing out between market fundamentalists, who see increasingly open and competitive markets as the solution to everything, and anti-market moralists, who see markets as instruments of selfishness, greed and exploitation that have been allowed to invade too many aspects of our lives. Every time we participate in a market innovation each time we hail a ride via a smart phone or download a song from iTunes were part of a massive social experiment whose ultimate consequences are unknown, they write in their introduction. By the books end, their outlook darkens even more: The evidence about how markets can affect our behavior combined with the new ways that markets are impinging on our lives should make the rest of us at least a bit uneasy about our future. It would all be quite ominous if it werent so sophomoric. ALL THAT wild-eyed talk from Donald Trump about a total and complete banning of the worlds 1.6 billion Muslims from setting foot on American soil? Not to worry, folks: It turns out Mr. Trump did not mean it maybe. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee, who in December proposed an unequivocal shutdown on Muslims entering the United States, even as visitors, has suddenly gone squishy. Mindful, perhaps, of GOP grandees (among others) who regard the idea as loopy, strategically disastrous, an affront to the Constitution and American values, or all of the above, Mr. Trump has lately modified his approach, or at least his rhetoric. Rather than a blanket prohibition on those who profess a single faith, Mr. Trump and his campaign now propose a ban temporary, they say, but of indeterminate length based on a geographic test rather than a religious one. I dont want people coming in from the terror countries you have terror countries! he said last weekend. It is possible to guess that he means refugees from Syria and Iraq, for starters, who would have been banned from entering the United States by legislation passed with bipartisan support by the House of Representatives after the terrorist attacks in Paris in the fall. (The bill died in the Senate.) Yet it is useful to remember that the known Paris assailants were French and Belgium nationals, born and raised there, even though they had visited Syria and at least one posed as a Syrian refugee. Would Mr. Trump ban Muslim tourists and immigrants from France and Belgium, or from other U.S. allies, such as Britain, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, all of which have produced citizens who carried out or attempted terrorist attacks? Mr. Trumps dwindling ranks of Republican apologists, including New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Carl Paladino, a one-time GOP gubernatorial candidate in New York, insist, against the evidence of the candidates own words, that he never called for a total ban on Muslims coming to the United States. That risible assertion serves no other purpose than to confirm that his own allies realize that Mr. Trumps proposal was politically toxic. The underlying fact is that Mr. Trump suggests different things on different days, according to his whim, or the exertions of his advisers, or the questioner, or his polling numbers. He has said his proposed ban was just a suggestion; that frankly a lot will be banned; that he would exempt peaceful Muslims; and that the ban would be temporary, until a proven vetting process was in place. Oh, and meanwhile, Mr. Trump said, he would authorize spying on mosques in the United States, albeit respectfully. The idea of respectful spying on residents and citizens at worship in this country is gibberish, of course like much of what passes for policy proposals from the Trump campaign. Amid the incessant incoherence, it may be possible to discern a pivot. Yet how could any voter believe that todays pivot wont be supplanted tomorrow by another? When awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W. Bush in 2007, Oscar Elias Biscet had a scheduling conflict, being in a Cuban prison. At the White House ceremony, Bush called him a dangerous man . . . in the same way that Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi were dangerous. It was not until three years later in a dark cell that another prisoner told him what the citation read that day had said. Recently, unexpectedly, Biscet was allowed by the Cuban regime to travel to the George W. Bush Institute in Dallas and finally receive the award from Bushs hands. Biscet explained this as part of the regimes effort to create the impression of change. That impression was dimmed a bit by the humiliating searches he was subjected to at the airport upon his departure. Knowing that the police would rummage through his suitcase, Biscet left a surprise: a Cuban flag covering his belongings. That is the kind of in-your-face defiance displayed by many dissidents. Biscet is offended to the core that the country he loves is occupied by squalid autocrats who have run it into the ground. Political heroism is often expressed by the simple inability to stomach the next indignity. For this attitude, Biscet has spent 12 of his 54 years in Cuban jails. His first offense was exposing deception at the heart of Cuban health care, the regimes main source of revolutionary pride. In the early 1990s, Biscet (an internist and medical teacher) began documenting the mix between politics and medicine that kept child mortality rates in Cuba so low. The government pressured hospitals and doctors to pressure women with problem pregnancies to abort, in order to post better statistics. If they know a baby may have congenital malformations, Biscet told me, they are killed before birth, unless parents show very strong objections. He explained: It is all about appearances. The largest question since President Obamas opening to the Cuban government: Are we seeing changes that are more than appearances? There is little doubt that the regime is increasingly isolated, with its ally Venezuela in socialism-induced chaos and a more hostile government coming in Brazil. The Castro government seems interested in freeing up some economic space for small and medium-size businesses (though not for professionals such as doctors and lawyers). But jobs in tourism are awarded to regime favorites and cronies, including former members of the military. According to a recent report by Oxford Analytica, the infusion of cash into limited regions and economic sectors is encouraging greater inequality and social tension. The government has responded by lowering the price of food and childrens clothing. There is no indication that the regime is opening social or political space. To the contrary, the Communist Party is overcompensating in its revolutionary zeal, including an old-fashioned diatribe by Fidel Castro against Obama and American imperialism. Americans naturally view these events through the lens of their own interests and weigh the costs and benefits. Obamas visit to Cuba in March was viewed by many (and by him) as a diplomatic breakthrough. Dissidents see things differently. For us, said Biscets wife, Elsa Morejon, the faces of the Castros on posters are like the faces of Hitler and Stalin. To see the president of a democratic government embrace these people was . . . discouraging. People born into free societies have a difficult time imagining totalitarianism. In Cuba, the party ultimately controls every job. Biscet once took work at a steel factory. When his political history was discovered, he was fired. At the beginning of the regime, there were mass confiscations and killings. Then large-scale incarceration and forced exile for many Cuban patriots. Now, Morejon said, there are also policemen in the mind. Everyone feels watched. That fear is what now controls the population, Biscet said. And it is a justified fear. Obama often talks about dictators and terrorists being on the wrong side of history. This can be a source of confidence, or a form of abdication. When progress is seen as the result of a ticking clock or impersonal forces, it acts as a release from responsibility. History is generally moved in the right direction by individuals willing to sacrifice their lives and liberty for the liberty of others. Standing up for dangerous men and women is not a distraction from diplomacy. It is one of the great comparative advantages of U.S. foreign policy. We benefit from the advance of the democratic values that gave our nation birth a birth attended by men very much like Oscar Elias Biscet. Read more from Michael Gersons archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook . Dennis Drabelle, a former contributing editor of Book World, writes frequently about the environment. Terry Tempest Williams is a force of nature in at least two ways. First, she pleads forcefully on behalf of the natural world, especially national parks, wilderness areas and endangered species. And, second, she writes as she damn well pleases. If Williams wants to use Canyonlands National Park as an excuse to recycle a number of letters she wrote some to living souls (environmental activist Tim DeChristopher, Interior Secretary Sally Jewell), others to recipients long in their graves at the time of writing (John Wesley Powell, Edward Abbey) she will do so. If she wants to bring up the restraining order she once obtained against one of her brothers without explaining what provoked it and how the feud ended, shell do that, too. And if she decides that the Chinese artist-cum-activist Ai Weiwei deserves a lengthy treatment in a piece on Alcatraz Island (where his work was on display at the time of her visit), she wont be deterred. Williams takes these and other chances in her new book, The Hour of Land, a collection of a dozen essays devoted to the state of the American environment as reflected in our national parks. (Sticklers take note: Williams uses the term national park broadly, as synecdoche for most of the categories in the national park system: park, monument, historic site, battlefield, seashore, recreation area.) The essays are interspersed with park-related photographs taken by contributors from Carleton Watkins to Ansel Adams to Anonymous, and Williams also borrows epigraphs from the poet Jorie Graham. But even with the books far-flung collaborators and long reach, the authors trademark poetic prose dominates every page. The following image, about Gulf Islands National Seashore as seen from a plane, can stand for a myriad of others: The Mississippi Delta comes into full view like a great nurturing hand smoothing the edge of the continent. And heres a striking passage from a piece on Big Bend National Park in Texas: Most deserts have a memory of the sea and here is no exception. Fossils embedded in the limestone create an ancient brocade woven through the stratigraphy of stone. "The Hour of Land: A Personal Topography of America's National Parks" by Terry Tempest Williams (FSG) As that generalization about the desert suggests, Williams who comes from an old Utah family knows the West well. Maybe too well, to the point where the multitude of threats to Western ecosystems, especially threats posed by oil and gas companies, can prey on her mind. Where does she go for relief? Why, to eastern national parks, notably Acadia. It is here in the settled wild of Maine that I find sanctuary from the painful politics surrounding western wilderness, she writes. I dont know enough to have my heart broken in the east. Williams justly refers to herself as a storyteller, and one of her best stories has to do with the aforementioned DeChristopher. Influenced by Abbey, DeChristopher got creative in trying to prevent the Bureau of Land Management from auctioning off mineral leasing rights to environmentally sensitive public lands in Utah. His tactic was to join the auction, outbid the avid corporations and then renege as well he might, since he came out as the winner of 14 bids, totaling $1.8 million that he could not even begin to scrape up. DeChristopher paid dearly for his monkey-wrenching (a term for eco-sabotage inspired by Abbeys 1975 novel, The Monkey Wrench Gang): a felony conviction, for which DeChristopher was sentenced to two years in jail. When last mentioned by Williams, though, he is not only out on parole but also a graduate student at Harvard University Divinity School on a presidential scholarship. In places, The Hour of Land reads as if it had been rushed into print for this years National Park Service centennial. To take just the essay on Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Williams tells us twice that the parks beleaguered superintendent finds it easier to deal with the chief executives of energy companies than with North Dakotas governor and legislature. (The crux seems to be that, desirous of protecting their firms images, the CEOs are open to compromise, whereas the state officials cant see past their fixation on fostering an economic boom.) And although elsewhere in the book Williams fulminates against war with regularity, here she celebrates the parks namesake as an environmental visionary, with nary a mention of Roosevelts role as one of the loudest warmongers in U.S. history. (What, pray tell, ravages the environment more than warfare?) Williams saves a surprise for the end: a dollop of optimism. She portrays the fossil-fuel industry as making its last desperate cries, although she wonders if the industry hasnt already set in motion forces that will destroy not only our most revered public landscapes but also the planet. A few pages later, she adds, After spending a lifetime immersed in our national parks, I believe we are slowly learning what it means to offer our reverence and respect to the closest thing we as American citizens have to sacred lands. Yes, those sentiments may smack of wishful thinking. But after all it was a mentor of Williamss, Wallace Stegner, who called wilderness the geography of hope. PARIS, BRUSSELS and now Istanbul: The horrific attack on Istanbuls Ataturk Airport on Tuesday evening, which killed at least 41 people and injured hundreds more, suggested that the Islamic States capacity to mount major raids on strategic international targets remains robust in spite of its losses of territory and key operatives in Iraq and Syria. The self-styled caliphate prizes ambiguity about its operations in Muslim majority Turkey and did not claim responsibility for the assault by multiple gunmen wearing suicide-bomb vests. But Turkish officials were right in saying it had all the hallmarks of the Islamic States campaign to sow chaos in the big cities of the states allied against it. By now, governments across Europe and the Middle East are on high alert for terrorist suicide attackers, and several cells have been broken up before they could act. One disturbing aspect of the Istanbul assault is that it succeeded in spite of tight Turkish security. The attackers were spotted soon after they emerged from a taxi outside the airport; at least two were shot by security forces, and only one made it inside the international terminal. The explosives they detonated were nevertheless able to slaughter dozens of people, some of whom were waiting in security lines. That suggests airport authorities may need to reexamine procedures for screening people as they arrive. More broadly, Istanbul shows that the threat of major, coordinated terrorist attacks by the Islamic State has not been much diminished by successes such as the recent recapture of the Iraqi city of Fallujah, or the killing of senior Islamic State commanders and organizers in U.S. raids and drone strikes. The elimination of the terrorists two principle bases, Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria, is necessary not just to liberate Iraqis and Syrians but also to protect the citizens of Western democracies and allies such as Turkey. Progress toward that goal is still too sluggish especially when it comes to forging the political arrangements that will be necessary to create an Iraqi alliance that can capture multiethnic Mosul and peacefully govern it afterward. Perhaps not by chance, what was merely the latest in a series of Islamic State attacks inside Turkey came just as its impulsive and increasingly autocratic president was moving to repair his regimes threadbare foreign relations. Turkey and Israel announced this week that they were mending a six-year rupture precipitated by President Recep Tayyip Erdogans reckless support of attempts to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip. At the same time, the president apologized for the downing of a Russian warplane that crossed into Turkey from Syria in November, potentially opening the way for a rapprochement with Vladimir Putin. A Turkey that is less at odds with fellow enemies of the Islamic State will increase the pressure on the terrorists; the horror in Istanbul merely underlines the need for that. Regarding the June 28 editorial The Supreme Courts squishy corruption standard: Virginias lax ethics laws must have influenced the Supreme Courts ruling overturning the corruption convictions of former Virginia governor Robert F. McDonnell (R). Mr. McDonnell was right when he said, I broke no laws, because the laws at the time were not strong enough. There have been attempts at the state and county levels to tighten ethics laws, but they are still not where they should be. I worked for the federal government for 35 years. I would not have been able to accept the kind and amount of gifts that the former governor and his wife did. For example, I was a contracting officer in Italy in 1990 and was not allowed to accept a Christmas gift of wine and fruit (value: $300) from a vendor who had contracts with the Army. I could not even accept it to share it with the federal employees working at Camp Darby, Italy. I returned the gift. In Loudoun County, former supervisor Eugene A. Delgaudio (R) was investigated for using his staff to help him raise campaign money. But he was a part-time employee, and the laws on illegal use of public assets for personal or political gain did not apply to part-time employees. Fortunately, citizens voted him out of office in November. The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors is tightening its ethics laws. The state should do the same. Why should Virginia lawmakers and executives be held to a lesser standard than military officers and federal employees? Anthony V. Fasolo, Leesburg The Supreme Court was correct that former Virginia governor Robert F. McDonnells (R) sleazy acceptance of gifts was not a violation of law. The court did not say that public employees such as Mr. McDonnell cannot be prosecuted when laws banning gifts are violated. Gift laws, both federal and local, are usually weak, as politicians like to be able to accept gifts. We need stricter laws banning gifts to all public employees. Currently, some naval officers are being investigated in the Fat Leonard gift scandal. Many are likely to be prosecuted for accepting gifts of much less value than what Mr. McDonnell took. The Navy has very strict regulations regarding gifts. All public employees, elected and appointed, should follow the same rules as military personnel. The media should put pressure on Congress and states to enact laws requiring all public employees to meet the same standards expected of members of the military regarding gifts. David D. Palmer, Rockville THE FIRST reports of gunfire that would result in Americas deadliest shooting in the modern era were received by Orlando police at 2:02 a.m. At 5:02 a.m., police stormed the nightclub that had been turned into a slaughterhouse, and at 5:15 a.m. came the call that the gunman was down. Key details about what happened during those three desperate hours remain unknown as authorities continue their investigation into the events of June 12. Some have raised questions about whether more could and should have been done to save lives. That makes the need for thorough investigation, rigorous analysis and transparency all the more important. In the weeks since 49 people were murdered and dozens more injured at Pulse, accounts from people who were inside the nightclub and anguished questions from victims family members have raised the issue of whether police were right to delay storming the bathroom where the gunman had holed up with hostages. I just feel that with so many cops to one person, it should have been a little quicker, Albert Murray, whose 18-year-old daughter was killed, told the Wall Street Journal. Orlando Police Chief John Mina has defended the actions, telling reporters last week it was a misconception that nothing was done for three hours: That time was used to rescue patrons, understand the buildings layout, figure out where people were hiding, get resources in place and talk to the gunman. So, what had been an active shooter turned into a hostage situation, and the decision to storm the building came when the gunman raised the threat of explosives. Police logs released this week indicate that most of the shooting occurred in the first 16 minutes. That there was heroic work by first responders who saved lives goes without question. And, of course, responsiblity for the carnage lies solely with the gunman, who was killed by police. But authorities are wrong to be so defensive about legitimate inquiries; to argue, as did U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida A. Lee Bentley III, that there must be no second-guessing of the police response. What exactly transpired during the critical three hours? Were any of those wounded or killed caught in police gunfire? Could any of the victims have been saved if police stormed the club sooner? Those are questions that need to be asked and answered. In that sense, the release of the detailed police logs was an encouraging sign that authorities realized the need to be more forthcoming. A thorough accounting is important not only for those whose lives were horribly changed June 12 but also because of lessons that might be drawn from the what-ifs of second-guessing. Just as the shooting at Columbine High School in 1999 prompted police to train differently to deal with mass shootings, so might Orlando provide insights that could help prevent or at lease minimize future horrors. LEADERSHIP IS about knowing when to pass the baton. That was the comment from D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson in announcing she will leave office in the fall. Because her leadership of the public school system, first as deputy and then as its head, has been peerless, we will bow to her judgment that this is the right time for her to go. That, though, doesnt mean she wont be sorely missed. Her departure is a loss for the District and its public school students, and it is critical that a successor be found who is committed to furthering the improvements in D.C. public education. Ms. Hendersons departure, announced Wednesday, is unexpected, but both she and Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) said it was voluntary, the result of Ms. Henderson being tired from her long tenure and in need of a change. Her last day on the job will be Sept. 30, and John Davis, the school systems chief of schools, will serve as interim chancellor while a national search for a permanent replacement is conducted. Ms. Henderson said that September, once schools are up and running, is the least disruptive time for change. This fall will be the six-year anniversary of Ms. Henderson taking over leadership of the schools from then-Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee, under whom Ms. Henderson was deputy during the turbulent early years of school reform that followed the introduction of mayoral control. When Ms. Rhee and Ms. Henderson arrived in 2007, the system was broken. Schools could not open on time, classrooms lacked textbooks, enrollment was on the decline and, instead of expectations about children learning, there were excuses for why they were not. Today, the system is the fastest-improving urban school district in the country, with better student test scores, increased rigor in the academic curriculum, new extracurricular offerings and rising student enrollment . That there was a continuity of leadership and agreement on what needed to be done even when mayors and chancellors changed was clearly a factor in the systems progress. To be sure, the system is still a long way from being where it needs to be. The vast majority of students are still not proficient in reading and math, and an achievement gap between minority students and their white peers persists. Because there is still much work to be done in fixing schools, Ms. Bowser must give great care to picking a replacement; it could prove to be her most important appointment. The mayors choice must be confirmed by the D.C. Council, which we hope will forgo politics and focus instead on what and who will best serve the citys students. Former House speaker Newt Gingrich is on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's short list of potential vice presidential candidates. Here's what you need to know about him. (Sarah Parnass,Danielle Kunitz,Osman Malik/The Washington Post) Former House speaker Newt Gingrich is on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's short list of potential vice presidential candidates. Here's what you need to know about him. (Sarah Parnass,Danielle Kunitz,Osman Malik/The Washington Post) Donald Trumps campaign has begun formally vetting possible running mates, with former House speaker Newt Gingrich emerging as the leading candidate, followed by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. But there are more than a half dozen others being discussed as possibilities, according to several people with knowledge of the process. Given Trumps unpredictability, campaign associates caution that the presumptive Republican nominee could still shake up his shortlist. But with little more than two weeks before the start of the Republican National Convention, Gingrich and Christie have been asked to submit documents and are being cast as favorites for the post inside the campaign. Gingrich in particular is the beneficiary of a drumbeat of support from Trump confidants such as Ben Carson. A number of senators including Jeff Sessions (Ala.) and Bob Corker (Tenn.) are also being reviewed as viable picks, although the extent to which they are being vetted is unclear. A longer shot on Trumps radar is Indiana Gov. Mike Pence, a heavyweight on the right who could bolster Trumps tepid support among some conservative activists. But Pence is immersed in his reelection race and Trump is said to want a more electric politician at his side rather than a low-profile figure. Most of his primary rivals are reluctant to sign on, and tensions with Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Sen. Ted Cruz (Tex.) remain raw. Details of the running-mate search were provided by five people with knowledge of the process who requested anonymity to discuss private conversations with campaign officials. [Trump fires top aide in urgent move to reboot his floundering campaign] Gingrich, who said on Fox News Sunday over the weekend that nobody has called me from the Trump campaign about the possibility of being vice president, declined to comment. Campaign spokeswoman Hope Hicks also declined to comment. Christies office did not respond to an inquiry. The contenders under the most serious consideration, such as Gingrich and Christie, have been asked by attorney Arthur B. Culvahouse Jr. to answer more than 100 questions and to provide reams of personal and professional files that include tax records and any articles or books they have published. Culvahouse, a former White House counsel who is managing the vetting for Trump, was the lawyer who vetted then-Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin for the GOP vice-presidential nomination during the 2008 campaign. The narrowing list of running-mate possibilities comes at the end of a turbulent period for Trump, who has struggled to raise money since clinching the GOP nomination and has stumbled through a series of self-inflicted controversies, including a racially charged attack on a sitting federal judge and a continuing outcry over his rhetoric against Muslims and other minorities. The presumptive Republican nominee continues to indicate that he will probably choose someone who could balance his brash populist persona with a political profile that includes deep experience in Washington or ties to the party establishment, the people familiar with the search said. The timing of Trumps announcement was for months expected to happen close to the convention. But campaign aides are now discussing moving it up, perhaps to later next week so the ticket can generate headlines and coverage and win over party leaders ahead of the party gathering in Cleveland. Donald Trump and former House speaker Newt Gingrich talk to the media after a meeting in New York in 2011. (Seth Wenig/AP) With Gingrich, 73, or Christie, 53, the 70-year-old mogul would be joined by a well-connected Republican who shares his combative style and his ease at being a ubiquitous media presence. Both men have won Trumps favor by actively supporting him Gingrich primarily through television appearances and Christie through behind-the-scenes talks with party leaders and leading GOP donors. [GOP leaders alarmed by Trumps fundraising start] Their experience facing down and cutting deals with Democrats has also drawn the interest of Trump, who has acknowledged that he would be a novice at working directly with lawmakers. Gingrich would bring with him a history of battling with presumptive Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, going back to their public fights over health care and Bill Clintons agenda and ultimate impeachment in the 1990s during her husbands presidency. For years, Gingrich was seen by Clinton allies not just as an opponent but a nemesis with a penchant for grandiose rhetoric and barbed attacks traits that Trump is said to welcome. Trump himself has heavily turned to elements of the 1990s in recent weeks on the campaign, revisiting past Clinton-related scandals and issues as he builds his case against the former secretary of state. Sessions and Corker are among the other names mentioned by people who have spoken with Trump officials. Sessions, a conservative populist who was the first senator to endorse Trump last year, has seen many of his trusted aides take on high-ranking roles in the Trump campaign. Corker, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has voiced support for some of Trumps views. Sens. Richard Burr (N.C.), Tom Cotton (Ark.) and John Thune (S.D.) have also been bandied about in Trump Tower as options. Sen. Joni Ernst (Iowa) and Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin, who previously served in the House, are two of the leading women in the mix. But shortcomings for many of these candidates have made their chances seem less likely to Trump advisers. Pence, Thune and Burr would bring heft and have held leadership positions, but they are focused on their reelection bids. Corker is well liked by campaign chairman Paul Manafort, but his recent public criticisms of Trumps tone and statements have not been welcomed by the candidate. Cruz is seen as someone Trump would like to bring into the fold because of his political capital with the conservative movement. But their bitter clashes during the primary have left a mark, and Cruz has so far declined to endorse Trump. That has not stopped members of Trumps team from reaching out to members of Cruzs circle and trying for a reconciliation. Trumps desire for a governing partner is not the only factor that has been mentioned in discussions among aides. Contenders rapport with the mogul and their ability to comfortably communicate and defend his nontraditional platform are also crucial, the people familiar with the process said. [In new poll, support for Trump has plunged, giving Clinton double-digit lead] Less central have been the candidates home states or regional influence, given that Trump sees the campaign as a nationalized political war that is largely being fought on television. Trumps inclination toward naming a seasoned player has been encouraged by Manafort, the longtime GOP insider who has taken full control of the process following Trumps firing of Corey Lewandowski, who had been campaign manager. Yet even as Manafort steers the selection and as members of Trumps orbit especially his children and son-in-law Jared Kushner informally weigh in, there is a collective understanding within the campaign that Trumps voice is the only voice that matters. One person involved in the process suggested the ultimate decision will come down to a committee of one: Trump. This is in his head, the person said. Its up to him. Robert Jeffress, a Dallas pastor who has become close with Trump during the campaign, said in an interview that while he has not spoken to Trump about the vice-presidential slot, Trump has made clear that he wants someone who can help get his legislative agenda through Congress. I think that is how he is going, Jeffress said. Hed be coming in as an outsider, and that has fueled his popularity. But he is the first to admit that he doesnt know all the ways of Washington. So to actually push what he wants through, hes willing to reach out and get somebody to lend a hand. At a debate June 14, Senate candidate Misty Snow (D-Utah) said her economic background would make her the right person to fight for working and middle class Americans. Snow won her primary fight June 28. (Jonathan Swinton) At a debate June 14, Senate candidate Misty Snow (D-Utah) said her economic background would make her the right person to fight for working and middle class Americans. Snow won her primary fight June 28. (Jonathan Swinton) Jane Campbell and her wife were crushed when North Carolina passed a law that rolled back rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Then Campbell, a retired Navy captain, took a dramatic step: She decided to run against one of the bills supporters. HB2 was really the thing that spurred my interest, Campbell said, referring to what the law was called in the legislature. Campbell and others gathered at a Charlotte hotel here last weekend to participate in a four-day training for aspiring LGBT politicians and political operatives. The training, put on by the Gay and Lesbian Victory Institute, which works to elect LGBT people to office, has been going on for years. But its leaders and many attendees said their mission has taken on a more urgent quality. In the wake of last years Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide, hundreds of pieces of anti-gay legislation were introduced in statehouses nationwide. The LGBT community has also been galvanized by the terrorist shooting attack two weeks ago in Orlando targeting a gay nightclub, killing 49. Here in North Carolina, the HB2 law rolled back local antidiscrimination provisions and required transgender people to use public bathrooms corresponding with their birth gender. Misty Plowright won a Democratic primary for a state House seat in Colorado, one of two transgender women to win primaries this week. (Misty for Congress campaign/Misty for Congress campaign) In Mississippi, a law allowing businesses to refuse service to same-sex couples was slated to go into effect on Friday. A federal judge struck down the law late Thursday night. [Despite prayers for the Orlando victims, few expect advances in gay rights] Its like someone took a barrel of ice water and doused us with it, and people are feeling that shock, said Victory Institute president Aisha C. Moodie-Mills, referring to setbacks in the year since the marriage ruling. Mills said the decision to come to Charlotte underscores one of the groups major goals: to try to get gay people elected in places where there is little representation. The South has only a small handful of gay elected officials; here in North Carolina, the only gay legislator was appointed, not elected. Nationwide, there are 470 LGBT people in elected or appointed office, according to the group. Recent training sessions have been held in Salt Lake City and Indiana after the state passed a religious liberty law. This week, two transgender women won Democratic congressional primaries in the West. Misty K. Snow, a 30-year-old Democrat who works at a grocery store, will face incumbent Sen. Mike Lee (R) in Utahs Senate race. Misty Plowright, a 33-year-old IT consultant, will challenge Rep. Doug Lamborn (R) in Colorado for a seat in the House district near Colorado Springs. In an interview, Snow said she decided to run because she doesnt think the working class and poor are adequately represented in Washington. She did not go through the Victory Institutes training. I decided that theres not enough working-class people in government, said Snow, who plans to keep working throughout the campaign. I just happen to be trans. Its not why Im running. Jane Campbell is challenging North Carolina State Representative John Bradford of Mecklenburg County for his state House seat. Campbell is a retired Navy captain who is gay. (Katie Zezima/The Washington Post) [Not about bathrooms: Critics decry North Carolina laws lesser-known elements] Plowright also said she plans to make fighting for the working class a big part of her platform, along with shoring up the nations aging infrastructure and pushing to get high-speed broadband installed nationwide. Im not a one-trick pony, and I dont want to be a token candidate, she said. But talking with a friend who opened a nonprofit organization that does transgender activism in Seattle and attending the Colorado Democratic convention this year led her to take the leap and run. As a trans woman, Ive been content for a long time to just kind of hide in the shadows, blend in, not make waves, not get noticed. Its just safer that way, she said. The more of us that get out there and the more of us that fight and the more visible we are, the better things are going to get. Here in North Carolina, opposition to the transgender law, which also contains provisions on minimum wage and suing for discrimination, has galvanized Campbell and others who want to try to fight it politically. The epicenter of the fight is in Charlotte, where the city council passed a non-discrimination ordinance in February extending new protections to LGBT people. The following month, Gov. Pat McCrory (R) signed HB2, now widely known as the bathroom law. [Charlotte set off the fight over the bathroom law. Now its dealing with the fallout] Some fighting to repeal the law say having more LGBT people in politics will help. Stop marching and holding hands and get your butt out and vote, Charlotte City Councilor LaWana Mayfield, who is a lesbian, said at the training session. Unless we get angry enough to stop talking about it and do something about it, nothings going to change. Kawana Davis, 31, was on the receiving end of an email from Mayfield and others seeking LGBT people to attend the training. There was no way I couldnt get involved after the bathroom law passed, she said. Davis describes herself as a behind the scenes girl and could see herself as a campaign manager or strategist. To help LGBT folks have a successful campaign, thats a need, she said. Davis and about 20 others, most from the South and the Eastern Seaboard, spent the weekend holed up inside a hotel here, where they sketched out an entire campaign for a fake candidate. Some came in direct response to HB2. Others have long harbored political ambitions. Some are total novices. Joe Fuld, a Democratic strategist who led the weekend session, broke down the nuts and bolts of campaigning. A Republican strategist also leads workshops. Whats a bad motivation to run? Fuld asked. Money, someone shouted. Power, said another. Fame, a man said. Fuld suggested the candidates do a personal assessment, too: Is your family on board? Are you ready to run? [This teacher is running for office and his former student is running the campaign] Fundraising, he told them, is crucial but takes up a lot of time and energy. He said to talk about filling potholes, changing the educational system or other issues that voters care about. Those are things that you are going to do as opposed to being the LGBT candidate or the gay guy or the trans person, he said. Campbell and her wife spent most of the spring going door to door in Davidson, N.C., where they live, gathering signatures for Campbell to get on the ballot as an unaffiliated candidate challenging Rep. John R. Bradford III (R). She said the effort was a good opportunity to hear potential constituents talk about the issues most important to them, including education and regional infrastructure. Tanner Glenn, 20, a student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is taking next semester off to manage the campaign of a former high school history teacher running for state legislature. Glenn came to the training to learn more about the nuts and bolts of campaigns and understand what the playing field looks like for gays and lesbians who are candidates or behind the scenes. The fight here over HB2, he said, makes it more crucial than ever to have more gay people involved in politics. Its certainly been a motivating factor, Glenn said. It shows there is a lot of work to do. Israeli soldiers guard a house in the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba, where a 13-year-old Israeli girl was killed in her bedroom. The suspected attacker, a Palestinian man, was fatally shot by security guards. June 30, 2016 Israeli soldiers guard a house in the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba, where a 13-year-old Israeli girl was killed in her bedroom. The suspected attacker, a Palestinian man, was fatally shot by security guards. Menahem Kahana/AFP/Getty Images The teen was stabbed as she slept in the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba. The suspected assailant, a Palestinian man, was shot and killed by police. An Israeli girl was fatally stabbed as she slept in the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba. The suspected Palestinian assailant was shot and killed by police. An Israeli girl was fatally stabbed as she slept in the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba. The suspected Palestinian assailant was shot and killed by police. The scene after a 13-year-old Israeli girl was fatally stabbed in the West Bank The scene after a 13-year-old Israeli girl was fatally stabbed in the West Bank A Palestinian youth scaled the security fence into a Jewish settlement in the West Bank on Thursday, entered a family home and stabbed to death a 13-year-old Israeli girl as she slept in her bedroom, Israeli officials said. Security cameras caught the assailant climbing the fence, but officers arrived at the house in the settlement of Kiryat Arba minutes too late. The girl, identified as Hallel Yaffe Ariel, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, had been stabbed several times. She died on the way to a hospital. The attacker, identified as Mohammad Traayra, 19, from the nearby village of Bani Naim, was shot dead at the scene, a statement from the Israeli military said. The attack is the latest bloodshed in a wave of violence between Palestinians and Israelis that began nine months ago but has tapered off recently. It also brought calls for increased security and more intensive building in Israeli settlements, which Palestinians and most of the international community condemn as illegal. Later on Thursday, two Israelis a middle-aged man and an elderly woman were stabbed and wounded, one critically, in the coastal town of Netanya. The assailant, a Palestinian from the West Bank town of Tukarem, was shot dead at the scene, Israeli authorities said. Hallel Yaffe Ariel, 13, was stabbed to death in her bed in the Israeli settlement of Kiryat Arba. (Family photo) [Israelis defiant a day after Palestinian attack in the heart of carefree Tel Aviv ] Israeli news media published a disturbing video of the attack in Kiryat Arba. In the footage, Hallels father, Amichai Ariel, is seen arriving at his family home after the attack and finding his daughter bleeding on her bedroom floor. The family is related to right-wing Israeli minister of agriculture Uri Ariel. My daughter was simply asleep, calm and serene. She was happy, and a terrorist came to her bed, in Kiryat Arba, and killed her, said Hallels mother, Rina. I want everyone to see our pain and to come console us. Hallel, may your memory be a blessing. Immediately after the attack, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a security briefing with his new defense minister, Avigdor Lieberman. It was decided to seal off the assailants village and to revoke permits to enter Israel for work for all members of his clan. Procedures for demolishing his familys home have begun, a statement from the prime ministers bureau said. The horrifying murder of a young girl in her bed underscores the bloodlust and inhumanity of the incitement-driven terrorists that we are facing, Netanyahu said. [A Palestinian teen killed an Israeli mom. Now the families struggle with why. ] He called on the Palestinian leadership to condemn the killings and take immediate action to stop incitement. The U.S. State Department earlier Thursday condemned the killing and confirmed in the afternoon that Hallel was an American citizen. This brutal act of terrorism is simply unconscionable, spokesman John Kirby said in a statement. We offer our heartfelt condolences, of course, to her family and to her friends. Roughly 7,800 Israelis live in Kiryat Arba, which sits on the edge of the largest Palestinian city, Hebron. It is not far from one of the main flash points between Israelis and Palestinians: the holy site that Israelis refer to as the Cave of the Patriarchs and Palestinians as the Ibrahimi Mosque. After Thursdays attack, Yochai Damri, regional council head for Jewish settlements in the Hebron area, called on the government to take tougher action and intensify building in Israeli settlements in the Hebron hills. Israels minister of transportation and intelligence, Yisrael Katz, urged that the family of the Palestinian assailant be expelled immediately to Syria or Gaza as a deterrent to terrorism. Israels policy has been to destroy the family homes of Palestinian assailants. Only the expulsion of families of terrorists can be used as a deterrent against acts of murder, which are incited by young people educated to hate and kill Jews, said the minister, a confidant of Netanyahus. Since Oct. 1, 2015, 31 Israelis and two American tourists have been killed in stabbing, shooting and vehicle attacks carried out by Palestinians. More than 190 Palestinians, many of whom were attackers, have been killed by Israeli forces or armed civilians. The violence has eased in recent months, although on June 8, two Palestinian gunmen from the West Bank village of Yatta, near Hebron, opened fire in a crowded food market in the heart of Tel Aviv. Four Israelis were killed in that attack. The two Palestinians were arrested. Thursdays attack in Kiryat Arba resembles one in January, when a Palestinian teenager stabbed an Israeli woman to death in her kitchen in front of her children. That attack occurred in the Israeli settlement of Otniel. Read more: Palestinians say man detained by Israel as a terrorist is actually a circus clown An Israeli soldier is accused of killing a disarmed Palestinian. But many think hes a hero. Palestinian teen killed by Israeli military in apparent mistake Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world A man walks past a building destroyed during recent fighting in Yemen's southwestern city of Taiz in March. (Anees Mahyoub/Reuters) The streets are eerily silent in this front-line enclave near Taizs Freedom Square, where thousands of protesters rose up against Yemens government five years ago. The presidential palace nearby survived the demonstrations but not the war that followed. It is now a concrete carcass, pummeled by airstrikes. Shops are shuttered and homes are empty. The only people who remain cannot afford to go anywhere else. By day, snipers strike down residents. At night, the gunfire and artillery shelling start. Were trapped by all the sides, said Ghulam Sayed, a former bus driver. For weeks, Yemens warring factions have held peace talks to end their 16-month civil war, bringing a sense of calm to much of the country. But in the southwestern city of Taiz the conflict rages on, defying a U.N.-backed cease-fire. Civilians are indiscriminately killed or wounded daily. Thousands languish in ragged displacement camps. Humanitarian groups are blocked from adequately helping victims. On one side of the war is an alliance of Shiite Houthi rebels and loyalists of former president Ali Abdullah Saleh. They have seized the capital, Sanaa, and control the northern half of the country. On the other side is the government, backed by the United States, Saudi Arabia and other regional powers. It controls only portions of the south, including the port of Aden. The rest is lawless or ruled by radical Islamists. Among the wars wrought by the Arab Spring revolutions, Yemens remains largely invisible to the world. Yet the conflict holds enormous stakes for Washington and its allies. Yemen, the Middle Easts poorest nation, sits along vital oil-shipping lanes in the Red Sea and has long been a key battleground between militant Islamists and the West. In 2000, al-Qaeda was behind the bombing of the USS Cole in Aden, killing 17 American sailors. That fight is intensifying. Al-Qaeda militants seized large swaths of territory in the political and security vacuum after the populist uprising. Its Yemen branch, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP, is considered the most dangerous of the affiliates. In recent years, it has launched attacks in the United States and Europe, including last years assault in Paris on the satirical French newspaper Charlie Hebdo that killed 11 people, as well as a foiled plot to bomb an airliner over Detroit on Christmas Day 2009. U.S. Special Operations forces, backed by drone strikes, are on the ground assisting Yemeni government troops and their allies to prevent AQAP from gaining more ground. Meanwhile, an Islamic State affiliate has emerged, competing with AQAP for recruits and turf. Before the Arab revolts, the countrys incessant tribal conflicts rarely reached Taiz, Yemens third-largest city. But its partition highlights those disputes and sectarian divides, the main obstacles to merging this fractured nation. Sayeds five brothers all live in this city. But he hasnt seen them in eight months. To visit their homes, he would have to cross the front lines, dodge airstrikes or shelling and pass through a web of checkpoints controlled by rival armed groups. And that is if he manages to get out of his neighborhood unharmed. On a barricaded road near his building, snipers recently shot several residents at a traffic circle. On another road, cars and motorcycles speed to avoid entering the gunmens sights. When his 9-year-old nephew was killed by a rocket, Sayed could not attend his funeral. What wrongs have the people of Taiz done to deserve all this? he said. A man examines the damage at the National Museum in the war-torn city of Taiz, Yemen. The museum is in an area under control of the local fighters backing the country's internationally recognized government. (Abdulnasser Alseddik/AP) Death toll climbs Five years ago, Taiz brimmed with hope. Tens of thousands of people flocked to Freedom Square to denounce Salehs 33-year rule, which was marked by bottomless poverty and a lack of jobs and other opportunities. The following year, the United States helped broker an agreement that forced Saleh to hand power to his deputy, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi. But Hadi had neither the experience nor the popular support to address the multiple crises that worsened after the Arab Spring. In January of last year, he resigned and fled to Aden as the resurgent Houthis occupied the capital. Saudi Arabias Sunni Muslim monarchy, wary of the Shiite Houthis, who are widely believed to be backed by its rival Iran, sought to restore the Hadi government when the Houthi forces closed in on Aden in March 2015. Today, Freedom Square is a war zone. Militias hold sway in the city center, which has been under siege for months. At least two dozen groups, collectively known as the Resistance, are loosely aligned against the Houthis and Salehs forces. They include some with ties to AQAP. But the Houthis and Salehs forces enforce a chokehold around the center, controlling the flow of people, medicine, food and other supplies into the area, where an estimated 200,000 residents live. The city is so fractured that it has two governors. Neither is in Taiz. How can I give up my weapons to you so you can kill me or imprison me? asked Abdo Al Janadi, the governor appointed by the Houthis and Saleh forces, referring to a condition made by Hadis side in the peace talks. He is based in Sanaa, the capital. The head of the problem is Abed Rabbo. He is incapable of ruling Yemen. Hadis appointed governor is based in the Saudi capital of Riyadh and in Aden. He could not be reached, but leaders of the Resistance militias were just as suspicious of their opponents. We will lay down our weapons only if the Houthis and Saleh forces withdraw from Taiz and all other cities they have occupied, said Ammar Aljundubi, the leader of the Hasm Brigades. And they must turn in their weapons to the legitimate government of President Hadi. He spoke by telephone because the Houthis refused to allow a Washington Post journalist to travel into the city center. Both sides are in a grisly stalemate. The Resistance fires artillery and mortar shells and deploys snipers. The Houthis and Saleh forces also have snipers and bombard the center with Katyusha rockets and artillery shells. Houses and factories have been hammered by the Saudi-led airstrikes. On the ground are remnants of American and British bombs used by the coalition. And the death toll mounts. Since the conflict began, more than 3,500 civilians in Yemen have been killed and 6,200 wounded, according to the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. Nearly a third of those killed and maimed are children, the largest number occurring in Taiz. The victims include 9-year-old Rowaida Qayed and 13-year-old Mohamed Badr. Rowaida was injured by an artillery shell as she fetched water from an outdoor tank. Mohamed was hit by fragments from an airstrike as he walked home. Today, Rowaida is in a hospital bed, her right thigh filled with shrapnel. Mohamed is in a wheelchair, his legs twisted out of shape. I miss not being able to play outside, Mohamed said. A man with an amputated leg sits at a prosthetic-limbs center in the southwestern city of Taiz in May. (Anees Mahyoub/Reuters) Little hope for peace On a recent day, cars and minivans moved slowly along the only road leading to the center of the city. The unpaved, rocky trail is usually closed or heavily monitored. But a cease-fire monitoring committee was in the area, and both sides apparently wanted to show good faith. The siege was briefly lifted. During the respite, Mohammad Shadli and his brothers decided to retrieve the furniture they left behind when they fled their home months ago. Do you think the airstrikes will stop? Shadli asked, seated in a pickup truck piled with tables, chairs and desks. Our faith in God is more than our faith in these peace talks. Those returning to the city center had nowhere else to go or they supported the Resistance. We cant sleep at night because of the Katyusha rockets, Murad al-Khalafy said. He and his family were coming back with food and other basic goods. Since the siege began, prices have skyrocketed. As in most areas, there is no electricity and streets are piled with garbage. The Houthis are also preventing most medical shipments from entering the city center, and hospitals are running out of supplies. Its their control strategy for the city, said Salah Ibrahim Dongudu, Taiz project coordinator for the aid agency Doctors Without Borders Holland, which assists the three major hospitals in the city center. We try our best to give support, but without constant medical supplies, its difficult. Abu Shuhab, a Houthi official, denied the charges, saying the Resistance snipers are keeping the aid agencies from entering. He added that the snipers were the reason the Houthis shut the road often, and he insisted there was no siege. Among the areas most desperate residents are the Muhammasheen, whose name means the marginalized ones. Denied good educations and jobs because of their dark skin, they worked as street cleaners and garbage collectors. There was random shelling, and many of us were killed, said Sirhan Saif, 42, a community leader. Fear spread, and we all fled our homes. Carrying their meager possessions, they reached a Houthi- controlled enclave. They erected tents made of blankets and scrounged for food. A family from a community calling itself the "Muhammasheen," or "the marginalized," who fled the city of Taiz because of the ongoing civil war, sit inside their home in a slum area of Sanaa in April. (Hani Mohammed/AP) Then in December, a Saudi-led coalition airstrike struck a Doctors Without Borders facility inside their camp, killing one person and wounding others. Two days earlier, Houthi fighters raided the camp and took into custody one of the communitys youths. Elders believe he was seized because his wife was light-skinned. Such arbitrary detentions have become common. In other enclaves, residents said that they stay home at night to avoid being stopped by Houthi gunmen. Houthi officials deny such targeting. But in a report last month, the human rights group Amnesty International accused the Houthis and Salehs forces of arresting opponents and critics in a chilling campaign to quash dissent. At the Doctors Without Borders trauma center, nurse supervisor Saber Sheryan, 32, explained that one of his friends, a doctor, had been shot by a sniper as he left the hospital where they both once worked. Another friend, a dentist, was killed by a mortar strike. Yesterday was the first anniversary of his death, Sheryan said matter-of-factly. Sheryan, too, is a victim. He was forced to flee his home. Since April, when the cease-fire talks began, Doctors Without Borders has treated more than 1,600 people for war-related injuries in Taiz. On June 3 alone, the medical charity received 122 wounded, most from a missile strike in a crowded market. Twelve others were killed that day. Less than a mile away, in the wards of the Gulf Hospital, there was little hope that the war will end soon. Moktar Mohamed Saif in a hospital bed in Taiz. (Sudarsan Raghavan/The Washington Post) I dont believe the situation will ever get back to normal, said Najib Mukbil, 29, sitting on a hospital bed. A sniper shot him as he rode on a motorcycle, the bullet puncturing his liver and fracturing his ribs. No one is willing to compromise. Lying on another bed, Moktar Mohamed Saif said he took every precaution to protect his family. After dusk, he turned off his solar-powered house lights to avoid being targeted by snipers. They ate in darkness and slept on the floor away from windows. Yet an artillery shell struck near his home, injuring his wife and three children, ages 2 to 7. His youngest was covered in blood, he said. I want revenge, Saif said. If I knew who fired the shell, I would slaughter him. Ali Almujahed in Sanaa contributed to this report. Read more: Yemen is turning into Saudi Arabias Vietnam Two of her daughters joined ISIS. Now shes trying to save her two younger girls. Islamic State sets its sights on fragile Tunisia Today's coverage from Post correspondents around the world In late October 2014, the FBI received an unusual email from a young man named Mohimanul Alam Bhuiya. Bhuiya, then 25, had joined the Islamic State. Now the longtime Brooklyn resident was desperate and looking for a way out. He wanted the FBI to rescue him. I am an American whos trying to get back home from Syria, he wrote in his email, according to federal court documents unsealed last month. I just want to get back home. All I want is this extraction, complete exoneration thereafter, and have everything back to normal with me and my family. He added: I am fed up with this evil. The Washington Post gives an insiders look at the Islamic States propaganda machine and its influence throughout the world. (Jason Aldag/The Washington Post) The FBI was still verifying his identity when Bhuiya managed to escape about a week later. He returned to the United States, where he was promptly arrested and charged with providing material support and receiving military training from the Islamic State. In a closed courtroom in Brooklyn, he pleaded guilty to both counts on Nov. 26, 2014, according to the court filings. He faces up to 25 years in prison. [Read the criminal complaint against Bhuiya] Bhuiyas name is redacted in the documents, but several U.S. law enforcement officials confirmed his identity. His lawyer did not return a message, and efforts to reach his family were unsuccessful. Prosecutors told the judge that redacting his name was necessary to protect the integrity of the ongoing government investigations and the safety of the defendant and his family. But NBC News in May ran an interview with Bhuiya, with cooperation from the Justice Department, in which he appeared under the name Mo with his face completely unobscured. A spokeswoman for the U.S. attorneys office in Brooklyn declined to comment. Bhuiya was not your average wayward Islamic State recruit. Unlike many of the people the Justice Department has charged in connection with the terrorist group, Bhuiya appeared to have a bright future. He attended Columbia University before he fell under the sway of the Islamic State. A young man from an Ivy League school challenges the conventional wisdom of a typical American ISIS recruit, said Seamus Hughes, the deputy director at the program on extremism at George Washington Universitys Center for Cyber & Homeland Security and a former National Counterterrorism Center staffer. Bhuiya went to high school in Brooklyn. He seemed to be a well-adjusted student who took a serious interest in Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison, according to a 2008 essay he wrote for the school newspaper entitled Sample College Essay: My Superhero. He praised President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, who fought a worldwide battle against the evil supervillain Adolf Hitler. In the essay, he said he wanted to major in psychology. He concluded: I believe that I have greatness in me, he wrote. I want to be a superhero. According to a Columbia University spokesman, Bhuiya attended the School of General Studies. He was enrolled for one semester from January to May 2013 and did not earn a degree. Bhuiya had come to the attention of the FBI before he traveled to Syria. According to court documents, investigators with the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force in New York learned in June 2014 that the young man might be planning to travel to Syria. When authorities interviewed Bhuiya at his home in Brooklyn, he told investigators that he was interested in events in Syria and supported rebel groups. But he claimed he lacked the money to travel to Syria and did not know what he would do if he got there. Days later, he flew to Istanbul and then managed to enter Syria. He had little interest in fighting. He implored Islamic State commanders not to send me off to the front lines because I can be useful in other ways, according to the NBC interview. It seemed to me that it would, you know, save my skin. Bhuiya said he quickly became disillusioned and described the Islamic State as dystopia. You could see madness in their eyes, he recalled. Bhuiya decided to flee. In the email to the FBI, he said he did not have a passport because the Islamic State had taken it. He asked if someone could pick him up at the border. Please help me get home, he told the FBI. According to court documents, Bhuiya managed to escape across the border into Turkey and make his way to a U.S. State Department outpost in Adana, which is in the southern part of the country. He admitted that he had joined and worked for the Islamic State. He said he carried a weapon but had never been involved in fighting. It is not clear where Bhuiya is being held as he awaits sentencing. Court documents indicate that prosecutors, at Bhuiyas request, had been exploring the possibility of going public with his story. The State Department has named Burma as one of the worlds worst human trafficking offenders, and it removed Thailand from the list, citing progress in cracking down on forced labor in the seafood industry. The annual Trafficking in Persons Report released Thursday is watched closely by the countries clustered at the bottom. It is viewed as a black mark on their international reputations and can have financial consequences. U.S. law places restrictions on non-humanitarian aid to countries with the worst records. Secretary of State John F. Kerry called the report a clarion call to each of us to do all we can to eradicate these horrors. [Obama administration eases economic sanctions on Burma] For many countries, the ratings were a balancing act. The report said human trafficking in Thailand remains a significant problem. Workers in the seafood industry are forced onto fishing boats for years at a time to toil 18 to 20 hours a day, the report said. They are sometimes beaten and drugged to work longer, and some have been killed for trying to escape. But the report said the government is making progress against the trade. It has increased the number of investigations and prosecutions of traffickers, including ship owners and captains, and closed down guilty firms. Thailands upgrade was welcomed by the ruling military junta. Bangkok complained bitterly last year, when it was listed as a Tier 3 country, the lowest ranking possible, which is reserved for countries that are doing little or nothing to deter human trafficking. This year, it was bumped up half a step to a Tier 2 watchlist for countries that do not meet the minimum standards but are trying to curb the practice. [India, Thailand agree to more cooperation on drugs, security] Thailand illustrates the potential geopolitical ramifications of the report. Relations between Thailand and the United States have been uneasy since the military seized power in a 2014 coup. But now, Washington wants to improve ties to counter Chinas growing regional influence and to build a unified regional front that will challenge Beijings territorial claims on man-made islands in the South China Sea. The demotion of Burma, also known as Myanmar, from the Tier 2 watchlist to a Tier 3 country is a reprimand to the democratically elected government. It is hoped the poor rating will goad the government to work harder to stop the use of child soldiers and forced labor. It also appears to express U.S. concern over persecution of the Rohingya Muslim minority. Burmas Nobel Peace Prize-winning new leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, has been accused of not paying enough attention to the Rohingyas fate. A United Nations report last month said 1.1 million Rohingya in Burma have been systematically discriminated against and live under severe movement restrictions. Many in the countrys Buddhist majority consider the Rohingya illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. [The battle over the word Rohingya] Kerry visited Burma in May, part of the Obama administrations diplomatic push to better relations with the former military dictatorship that is emerging from years of international isolation. President Obama has lifted some sanctions against the country, but others have remained in place. The downgrading suggests more U.S. sanctions may be forthcoming. The State Department also demoted Uzbekistan, where the government forces workers to take part in the annual cotton harvest, from the watchlist to the blacklist. But it retained Malaysias ranking on the watchlist, where it was elevated last year not long after mass graves of human trafficking victims were discovered near the Thai border. Human rights group applauded the downgrades of Uzbekistan and Burma but said Malaysia and Thailand still belong at the bottom. Sarah Margon, Human Rights Watchs Washington director, said Thailand did not deserve an upgrade. The steps taken were positive but not significant enough yet to trigger an upgrade, she said. She said Malaysias move last year to the watchlist was widely believed to be a reflection of the countrys involvement in the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The State Departments decision to maintain their Tier Two watchlist ranking is a huge disappointment, given the absence of any significant or meaningful efforts to tackle human trafficking by the Malaysian government, Margon said. Read more: Russian fighter jets and bombers are parked at Khmeimim air base in Syria on June 18. (Pool photo by Vadim Savitsky/Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP) The Obama administration has offered to help Russia improve its targeting of terrorist groups in Syria if Moscow will stop bombing civilians and opposition fighters who have signed on to a cease-fire and use its influence to force Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to do the same. The offer early this week of what one administration official called enhanced information sharing does not include joint military planning, targeting or coordination with U.S. airstrikes or other operations in Syria. But it would expand cooperation beyond the deconfliction talks the U.S. and Russian militaries began last year to ensure their planes do not run into each other in Syrias increasingly crowded airspace. Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter, who has long opposed any additional cooperation, said Thursday that if Russia would do the right thing in Syria thats an important condition as in all cases with Russia, were willing to work with them. The Russians got off on the wrong foot in Syria, Carter said. The stated purpose of airstrikes Russia began last fall was to fight ISIL and . . . assist the political transition in Syria towards a post-Assad government. They havent done either of those things, he said. ISIL, along with ISIS and Daesh, is an alternative term for the Islamic State. Senior administration officials declined to discuss details of the proposal, saying that publicizing the content of diplomatic talks would undermine their possible success. Weve made no bones about the fact that if the Russians, with their military presence in Syria, proved to be willing to focus those efforts against Daesh, then thats a conversation we would be willing to have, State Department spokesman John Kirby said. There have been proposals offered by multiple parties, he said. Were certainly not going to start laying those out publicly. The United States and Russia, while backing opposing sides in Syrias civil war, co-chair an international task force that agreed early this year along with Assad and the opposition to support a cessation of hostilities and begin negotiations for a political solution that would allow the international community to turn its full attention to the fight against the Islamic State. More than 400,000 Syrians have died in the civil war, which has also displaced half the population, with millions fleeing to neighboring countries and beyond. The Islamic State and Jabhat al-Nusra, al-Qaedas Syrian affiliate, are not parties to the truce. The administration has charged that Russia and Assads forces have violated it by continuing to launch airstrikes and other attacks on the anti-Assad opposition and civilians, under the guise of targeting the terrorist groups. What has prevented us from being able to more effectively coordinate militarily is that what the Russians have been militarily doing is propping up Assad and not going after ISIL, White House press secretary Josh Earnest said. Russia has defended its actions, and those of Assad, by saying that U.S.-backed opposition fighters are interwoven with Jabhat al-Nusra forces, especially around the northwestern Syrian city of Aleppo. While violations of the truce have escalated throughout Syrias populated western third, Aleppo has become the epicenter of fighting. Jabhat al-Nusra forces are principally massed to the south of the city. While the administration has acknowledged some overlap in opposition-held areas to the north, officials charge that Russias principal interest in bombing there is to help Assads forces close rebel and humanitarian supply lines across the nearby Turkish border. The advance of Islamic State fighters to areas close to Aleppo and other populated areas has also brought U.S. and Russian aircraft into closer proximity over the complicated Syrian battlefield. The Islamic State has rarely clashed with Assad. In early May, as the cease-fire and U.N.-shepherded peace talks headed toward collapse, Secretary of State John F. Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov agreed to send senior military officers to sit at the same table in Geneva, where they set up a center to monitor violations. Weeks later Russia which has long sought more coordination with the West in Syria proposed joint airstrikes against Jabhat-al-Nusra with the U.S.-led coalition that is bombing Islamic State positions. Although U.S. officials were dismissive, the proposal unsettled U.S.-backed opposition representatives, who feared a backroom U.S.-Russia deal. They have said they will not return to the negotiating table until the violence abates. Kerry and other U.S. officials have remained in close contact with their Russian counterparts, trying out a series of possible initiatives to revitalize the cease-fire, including the new offer of increased intelligence sharing on terrorist positions. Kerry is fixated on the Syria issue, and he will stay so, Kirby said. Kerry has long advocated a more robust U.S. strategy to help the anti-Assad opposition, including additional weapons systems and the possible bombing of Assads military assets. Internal unhappiness with the current strategy, and the humanitarian disaster the war has brought to Syria, led 51 U.S. diplomats last month to write an internal dissent channel appeal for U.S. military action. While President Obama has steadily increased U.S. attacks against the Islamic State in Syria, he has rejected entreaties for more direct involvement in the civil war, saying that he does not see how it would improve the situation. But Obama has blessed efforts to persuade Russia to change its policies, including the intelligence offer. Administration officials believe that the Russians have no deep attachment to Assad himself but fear his removal would spark a collapse of Syrian institutions and allow terrorist expansion something the Obama administration has said will happen if Assad remains. In an address Thursday to Russian ambassadors gathered in Moscow from across the world, President Vladimir Putin said that he was prepared to work with any future president and was interested in closer cooperation with the United States in international affairs. However, we consider unacceptable the approach on the part of the American establishment, which believes that they can decide in what issues they will cooperate with us, Putin said. Missy Ryan contributed to this report. Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack Thursday on the outskirts of Kabul. (Rahmat Gul/AP) Dozens of Afghan police cadets were killed Thursday when two Taliban suicide bombers targeted their convoy near Kabul in one of the deadliest attacks in months. The Afghan Interior Ministry said at least 30 cadets were killed and 58 others wounded in the attack on the western outskirts of the capital. A police official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to provide information, said the death toll was higher. The cadets were returning to Kabul for the Muslim religious festival of Eid after completing training in restive Wardak province when a suicide car bomber rammed one of the buses in the convoy, witnesses and police officials told reporters. A second bomber detonated explosives after police and local residents rushed to the scene. Several civilians were also killed, residents said. [Taliban dramatically escalates level of brutality] The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, which left several buses in the police convoy badly damaged. The force of the blast pushed one bus off the road. As residents and other police in the convoy moved to evacuate the casualties of the first blast, another suicide bomber, possibly on foot, blew himself up among them, said a witness who gave his name as Hamidullah. President Ashraf Ghani denounced the attack as a crime against humanity. His government is locked in a power struggle and faces threats from a growing Islamic State presence, as well as the Taliban. Ghani said the bombings were a sign of the Talibans defeat on the battlefield. [Elite Afghan agency comes under attack] It was the deadliest attack on security forces since April, when Taliban militants used a suicide truck bomb to assault a compound housing an intelligence training office in the capital. At least 64 people were reported killed. The Taliban has also repeatedly attacked convoys of security forces. The latest such assault Thursday raised further questions as critics asked why the government has not changed its policy of transporting large numbers of security forces in convoys. Earlier this month, 14 Nepali security guards were killed in the suicide bombing of a bus in the capital. Interior Ministry spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said more than 400 cadets were traveling in the convoy Thursday. They were riding in marked buses, according to witnesses. Why are they transporting so many police in marked police buses in the face of past deadly attacks? asked one resident, Mohammad Bashir. Why cant the government learn from past mistakes? Ghani said he has ordered an investigation into how the cadets were transported to ascertain whether any negligence was involved. [U.S. seeks billions more to support Afghan military] The U.S. Embassy in Kabul condemned the bombings as abhorrent and indicative of a cruel and complete disregard for human life. It said in a statement, We will continue to stand with our Afghan partners and friends as they work to bring peace and security to Afghanistan. Washington is widening its military campaign against the Taliban in the country, authorizing offensive airstrikes against the group in June. Previously, airstrikes on Taliban targets were allowed only for defensive reasons. U.S. officials have said such strikes will be used only when they are deemed to have a significant strategic impact on the fight. Morris reported from Baghdad. Erin Cunningham in Istanbul contributed to this report. Read more: Today's coverage from Post correspondents around the world The identity of the attackers exposed possible connections to the Islamic State. (Hugh Naylor,Jason Aldag/The Washington Post) The identity of the attackers exposed possible connections to the Islamic State. (Hugh Naylor,Jason Aldag/The Washington Post) The three suicide bombers who brought horror and bloodshed to Istanbuls main airport were identified Thursday as nationals from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, adding fresh leads for investigators digging into suspected Islamic State networks. The various homelands underscored possible connections between Islamic State cells and Turkeys large communities of workers and others from the Caucasus region and Central Asia. There has been no claim of responsibility, but Turkish officials have said they believe the Islamic State was behind the carnage at Ataturk Airport. Senior Turkish officials cited the home nations of the attackers. But authorities did not immediately release their names or other details about their possible movements and planning before the attack, which claimed 44 lives and wounded more than 230 in another potential blow to Turkeys already flagging tourism industry. [Turkeys cat-and-mouse game with the Islamic State] Uzbekistan has faced sporadic attacks by Islamist militant factions since the 1990s, and Kyrgyzstan recently launched crackdowns on suspected Islamic State recruitment. Russias Dagestan region alleged home of the third attacker has been caught up in clashes between Russian forces and Islamist fighters since the late 1990s. The details on the attackers origins are likely to expand the international scope of the investigation and offer a chance for wider assistance from Russia, which plans security talks Friday with Turkish officials. The broad topic outlined for the meetings looks to find ways to ease the conflict in Syria, but the airport attacks could shift greater focus to the Islamic State and its dependence on Turkey as a lifeline. In recent months, however, Turkey has sought to increasingly close off the militant groups routes for sending supplies and recruits into Syria. Even as Turkey still reeled from the violence, the assault on one of the worlds busiest airports and a symbol of Turkeys modern economy threatened to propel the country into an even wider war with the jihadists. Turkish police staged raids in at least two cities, detaining at least 13 suspects in connection with the attacks. [A day after the Istanbul attack: Were sad. Were scared.] Counterterrorism units raided 16 addresses in Istanbul and launched operations in the Aegean coastal city of Izmir, according to Turkish officials and the state-run Anadolu news agency. Three of those arrested in Istanbul are foreign nationals. Nine other suspects were detained in Izmir for allegedly providing logistical support to the Islamic State, but it was unclear whether they were directly tied to the attack. 1 of 41 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad What the scene at Istanbul airport looks like after gunfire, explosions View Photos Dozens are reported killed after suicide bombers attack the citys Ataturk Airport. Caption At least 100 were killed after suicide bombers attacked the citys Ataturk international airport. June 29, 2016 A coffin is loaded into a hearse at the forensic building close to Istanbuls airport. Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images Wait 1 second to continue. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said in a televised speech late Wednesday that the governments assertion that the Islamic State was responsible continues to gain weight. At least three people injured in the attack later died, raising the death toll to 44, including 25 Turks and 19 foreigners, officials said. Among those hurt was at least one American who suffered minor injuries, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said, the Reuters news agency reported. Zeynep Karatas in Istanbul and Karen DeYoung in Washington contributed to this report. Read more: Islamic State bombing sends a message to Turkey Turkish president apologizes for downing of Russian warplane last year Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Somme Gas-masked men of the British Machine Gun Corps with a Vickers machine gun during the first battle of the Somme. Dated 1916 (Photo : Universal History Archive/UIG via Getty images) July 1 marks 100 years since the beginning of one of the largest and deadliest offensives of World War I the Battle of the Somme, in which the French and British armies joined forces on the Western Front against the German Empire. According to History.com, on the first day alone, the British suffered more than 57,000 casualties, and by the time the battle was over on Nov. 18, 1916, the overall death toll among the Germans, French, British and their allies was more than 1.5 million. Heres a look back. See images from the 100th anniversary memorial services: France and Britain mark the 100th anniversary of the deadliest battle of WWI - Battle of the Somme >>> See more news-related photo galleries and follow us on Yahoo News Photo Tumblr This week's Red Hat Summit, a tech conference, in San Francisco closed out its keynote session with a bang an onstage wedding, officiated by Red Hat tech EVP Paul Cormier, with CEO Jim Whitehurst acting as ring bearer. The groom, Matt Hargrave, an engineer with GM Financial, is a Red Hat superfan. It was his idea to hold the wedding at the conference, to which the company agreed. His now wife, Shannon Montague, works as an American Sign Language interpreter. The couple traveled to San Francisco from Texas to get married onstage. Cormier got his marriage license just to make this happen. And it definitely happened. You can watch the whole thing here: Or skip to the vows here, from Instagram: This is a #rhsummit first A video posted by Opensource.com (@opensourceway) on Jun 29, 2016 at 3:02pm PDT on Jun 29, 2016 at 3:02pm PDT Red Hat is a publicly traded company that makes open-source software, including the popular Red Hat Enterprise Linux operating system for computer servers. It has a market cap of over $13 billion. Hargrave teased it was coming the day before on his personal Twitter: 1 day left and no one around here has a clue about the big event. #RHSummit pic.twitter.com/oFQNrknM24 Matt Hargrave (@hargrizzel) June 28, 2016 It's not uncommon for tech companies to pull out all the stops to make an impression at their big mega events, but a wedding is a new one by me. NOW WATCH: Cutting edge tech discovered a popular word inmates say during phone calls and prison officials were surprised More From Business Insider Explore the Earth's most captivating and hard-to-reach natural splendors. While humankind can take credit for world-class art and modern buildings that serve as archaeological masterpieces, it's hard to compete with the beautiful structures and environments created by Mother Nature herself. From rock formations carved with wind and rain for thousands of years to soaring mountains, carefully crafted waterfalls and illuminated skies, the world has created some beautiful and inspiring splendors out of nothing more than air, water and sand. Here are 15 must-see natural wonders the world over. Aurora Borealis Norway; Finland; Sweden; Iceland; Canada Aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, is a scenic wonder that can only be viewed from certain regions of the world. The glow it creates illuminates the night sky with a sea of greenish-blue, striking awe and wonder in all who experience it. You can see the northern lights in various locations from Norway to Finland, Sweden, Iceland and areas across Canada. Ayers Rock Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia Ayers Rock, located in Australia's Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, is a giant rock that stands more than 986 feet high. But look closer, and you'll see much more. Not only is it huge and looming over the Australian landscape for miles, but it's also considered a spiritual site for some of Australia's indigenous people. Banff National Park Banff, Canada Yes, Banff National Park is a natural wonder on its own. Set in the Canadian Rockies, Banff invites you to see some of the world's most breathtaking mountain peaks and captivating wildlife. What's more, with the diverse park covering more than 4,000 square miles, Banff offers superior sightseeing, hiking, whitewater rafting and canoeing. Cliffs of Moher County Clare, Ireland There's nothing like seeing the end of the world, yet that's exactly what you'll appear to find at the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. Perched on the verge of the Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs end abruptly, creating a vast stretch of green peaks. And these cliffs don't just attract tourists, either. They also attract a fun world of wildlife that keeps families coming back for more. Story continues Geirangerfjord and Nryfjord Norway The Norwegian fjords are well-known for their beauty, but the Geirangerfjord and Nryfjord fjords are two can't-miss sites every world traveler should see at least once. Not only are they a few of the longest and deepest fjords in the world, but they offer sweeping views of the unbelievable scenery on each side. Opt for a boat tour down the mountain-lined waterways filled with waterfalls and wide-angled cliffs. Grand Canyon National Park Arizona While pictures of the Grand Canyon reflect its vast grandeur, seeing it in person will give you an entirely different perspective. First, the park covers more than 1 million acres of land, with the canyon itself dominating around 277 miles. And thanks to the many parks and campgrounds nearby, you can easily turn this bucket-list destination into a cheap family getaway. Pitch a tent, fill a cooler and enjoy the great outdoors. Great Barrier Reef Australia The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's premier natural wonders. Comprising more than 3,000 individual reefs, the Great Barrier's reefs each offer a unique combination of marine life and coral. Arrive by boat to dive deep into a world of coral and marine life, before floating atop to see fascinating creatures swim by. The Great Blue Hole Belize Visitors to Belize marvel at the Great Blue Hole, a giant, 410-foot hole below sea level with seemingly endless depths. Renowned as an amazing destination for scuba divers, adventure seekers show up in droves to explore the Great Blue Hole and get a taste of the deep sea. Inside, an array of interesting rock and coral formations, caverns and sea life await. Lauterbrunnen Valley Switzerland Lauterbrunnen Valley is the stuff of dreams. Picture yourself in a steep ravine among the Swiss Alps, with delicate waterfalls cascading all around you, mountain peaks towering over you and rolling green hills filling in the scenery. Many visitors flock here simply to see Staubbach Falls, one of Europe's tallest waterfalls. Mount Everest Nepal and Tibet Mount Everest -- the world's tallest mountain -- is a scenic and thrilling site to behold. Standing more than 29,000 feet tall, its peaks are often covered by clouds and sky, making it impossible to see the mountain in its entirety. But, if you do make the risky and extremely strenuous trek, the views from the top are spectacular. Niagara Falls Ontario, Canada and New York While it may be a tourist trap, Niagara Falls is a gem of natural beauty. It's hard to take in the entire scene at the falls because it is so incredibly wide and vast; it's nearly 176 feet tall in some places and pushes through 150,000 gallons of water per second. Coming from either the U.S. or Canada, it's easy to turn this trip into a family getaway. With inexpensive hotels and plenty of restaurants and attractions, there is more than enough to do and see. Pulpit Rock Ryfylke, Norway Giant rock formations are beautiful on their own, but it's hard to match the spectacular views from the top of the Pulpit Rock in Norway. Here, you'll find breathtaking vistas over Kjerag peak. Just keep in mind you won't find safety railings here, so it's best to visit once you're comfortable with heights. Better yet, for a worry-free experience, stick to the middle of Pulpit Rock. Salar de Uyuni Bolivia As the world's largest salt lake, the Salar de Uyuni offers an otherworldly landscape. Formed through the joining of several prehistoric lakes, it is exceptionally flat. As such, it mimics the clouds and sky directly above, allowing visitors to create extraordinary poses that make them appear to walk on water. Stroll on the Salar de Uyuni during the day, and you might feel like you're walking on the sky -- and in the the dark night, you can easily feel entombed by outer space. Shilin Stone Forest Yunnan Province, Kunming, China The Shilin Stone Forest of China offers a strange combination of rock formations and greenery. Spread over a vast area in the Yunnan Province in China, the green space is filled with giant rocks that remind you of Stonehenge yet don't have any clear-cut formation or order. Archaeologists say that the rocks themselves are more than 270 million years old, however, they stand as firmly as they always have. Table Mountain Cape Town, South Africa Table Mountain dominates the scenery surrounding Cape Town, South Africa. The flat-topped mountain's beauty is best experienced with a hike along the mountain itself or a cable car ride to the top. Add in a stint exploring the sites across Cape Town, and you'll have a blast. More From US News & World Report Disney World has made some subtle changes since an alligator at one of its resorts attacked and killed a toddler standing in less than six inches of water. Read: Man Describes 1986 Gator Attack at Disney Resort: 'I Started Kicking The Alligator's Head' Gone is Tick Tock the Croc from Peter Pan, a character in the parks Festival of Fantasy parade, according to the Miami Herald. Also missing is Louis, the trumpet-playing alligator from The Princess and the Frog, that was supposed to be part of the Friendship Faire castle show, an unnamed employee told the paper. The Jungle Cruise tour guides no longer joke about crocodiles eating children as they narrate a boat tour through the worlds rivers and the Kilimanjaro Safari ride has dropped references to a crocodile pit. We continue to evaluate processes and procedures for our entire property, and, as part of this, we are reinforcing training with our cast for reporting sightings and interactions with wildlife and are expanding our communication to guests on this topic, Walt Disney World Resort vice president Jacquee Wahler said in a statement last week. Read: Another Boy Photographed Playing In The Same Spot As Lane Graves 30 Minutes Prior To Gator Attack Less-than-subtle changes include new signs and fences along resort beaches warning of alligators and snakes and advising against feeding the wildlife. Such notices were not posted when the remains of 2-year-old Lance Graves were pulled from the Seven Seas Lagoon on June 15, after an alligator snatched him and pulled him underwater. Watch: Hear The 911 Call Made By A Disney Employee After Toddler Was Snatched By Gator Related Articles: Monty Hall doors The UKs surprising decision last week to leave the EU has stirred up confusion as to what will happen to Britain, Europe and the rest of the world in the wake of the Brexit. We do know the Brexit will likely lead to years of negotiation as the UK works out its new relationship with the EU. In a recent note, Torsten Slok, chief international economist and managing director of Deutsche Bank, suggests three possible broad scenarios for a post-Brexit Europe. The first scenario Slok lays out involves the EU muddling through, which he calls a default strategy for the EU. Slok predicts that the business as usual outcome will be the most likely scenario post-Brexit. The EU is known for resisting change in part because of its bureaucratic nature. Even during the European Council meeting on Tuesday in Brussels, 28 EU leaders spent roughly three hours discussing their own bureaucracy before getting around to talking about the exit of Britain, Washington Post reported, noting that the Brexit itself was at least partly a rejection of EUs red-tape-filled processes. The second scenario could involve dissolution tensions, with Brexit triggering other countries to leave the EU. Nigel Farage, leader of the far-right UK Independence Party, suggested on the morning of Brexit the Netherlands, Sweden and Denmark might be next to leave the EU. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right Front National in France, also suggested her country may be last to leave. Slok calls the third scenario integration leap, laying out a situation where the UKs exit makes the existing 27 members become stronger. In that scenario, the remaining EU members would work together to ramp up security in the Eurozone and get rid of some of the bureaucracy that has slowed down decision-making. Slok isnt the first person to suggest the Brexit could strengthen the EU. On Friday, Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves expressed his hope for cooperation and unity between the remaining EU members, according to The Baltic Times. Story continues What the decision to leave means for the United Kingdom and the European Union politically and economically cannot be predicted in full yet, he said. Personally, I hope that it will have a unifying effect on the EU 27. Read more: How the Supreme Court is hurting the economy by killing immigration reform The No. 1 hiring challenge cited by US small business owners Americas brick-and-mortar banks are vanishing The profound business implications of that viral Chewbacca mask video The vote, last week, by Britons in favor of exiting the European Union (Brexit) shocked markets globally, taking indexes into a tail spin. The airline industry hasnt been spared the onslaught, with stocks plummeting on fears of slackening travel demand. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), with Brexit materializing, U.K.s air passenger market is expected to shrink in the band of 3% to 5% by 2020. In fact, U.S. carriers with exposure to Britain have borne the brunt of the Brexit vote. The Fort Worth, TX-based American Airlines Group AAL has been a major sufferer with its shares losing over 8% as it has high exposure (6.2% of capacity) to the U.K. Other airline heavyweights like Delta Air Lines, Inc. DAL are also at risk following the disclosure of the results of the U.K. referendum which revealed that 51.9% of the votes were cast in favor of Brexit while 48.1% opposed the notion (read more: 4 U.S. Airline Stocks at Risk as UK Opts for Brexit). Terror Attacks on the Rise In fact, the Brexit vote is not the only challenge confronting airline stocks. Stocks in the space have been grappling with issues arising from the mass shooting in Orlando on Jun 12, described as the worst in the nations history. Such attacks hit carriers hard due to the associated fears of declining travel demand on security issues. Airline stocks had moved south each time there has been an act of terror in the recent past. The attacks in Paris (Nov 2015), Brussels (Mar 2016) and the EgyptAir tragedy (May 2016) had all spelt doom. Apart from Brexit and terror-related issues, airline stocks are facing headwinds such as declining unit revenues as well. Rebound in Sight? Going by the price movement in the last two trading sessions, airline stocks seem to be bouncing back from the Brexit induced slump. The NYSE ARCA Airline index has gained over 5% over the same time frame. Stocks in the airline space were not affected by the Jun 28 attacks at the Istanbul airport. This clearly highlights that the impact on carriers of such heinous acts are declining with the increase in frequency. Thus, it is highly probable that the consequences of such attacks are already priced in. However, we can get a more concrete view of this issue with time. Story continues Oil: Chief Benefactor It is common knowledge that cheap oil has benefited airline stocks immensely, resulting in massive savings as fuel represents one of the major expenses for carriers. Consequently, we have seen a surge in shareholder friendly (dividend and buybacks) and employee friendly (profit sharing) activities in the space. The improved financial status of carriers has encouraged them to make substantial investments aimed at enhancing the flying experience for passengers. Crude Resurgence: Not a Concern Oil prices have been moving up for the last few months. The commodity is currently hovering around $50 a barrel, representing a significant upsurge from the 12-year low of $26.21 in Feb 2016. However, despite oils significant recovery, the commodity is still trading at about half the level witnessed two years ago. That oil prices will continue to aid airline stocks, at least for the remainder of the year, was hinted by the IATA projection of crude oil price (Brent) being $45 a barrel in 2016, compared to the 2015 price of $53.9 a barrel. Moreover, fuel expenses are projected to be almost 30% less in 2016 on a year-over-year basis. Strong Stocks The above write-up clearly suggests that airlines are poised to fly high in the days ahead. Consequently, adding airline stocks to ones portfolio wont be a bad choice despite the hiccups. However, picking the right stocks is no mean feat, especially during times as distressing as this. This is where the Zacks Rank, which justifies a companys strong fundamentals, can come in really handy. In addition to a compelling Zacks Rank, we have utilized our new style score system, to zero-in on four airline stocks with bright prospects. Our Choices Skywest Inc. SKYW: The carrier, headquartered at St. George, UT, operates as one of the major regional airlines in the U.S. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has moved up 4.5% over the last 60 days. Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) P/E:10.17 (versus 15.70 for the industry) Value Score: A Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd. CPCAY: The international airline is based and registered in Hong Kong. It also offers airline catering, aircraft handling and engineering services. Zacks Rank #1 P/E: 5.34 (versus 15.70 for the industry) Value Score: A ANA Holdings Inc. ALNPY: This Tokyo-based company offers scheduled & unscheduled air passenger as well as air courier services. It is also involved in the buying, selling, leasing and maintenance of aircraft and aircraft parts. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has risen 12.5% over the last 30 days. Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) Value Score: B Growth Score: A P/E: 12.91 (lower than the industry average) GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A.GOL: This Brazilian low-fare airline has received a series of encouraging news lately. The carrier is undergoing a thorough restructuring process. Meanwhile, the company's top line is poised to benefit from the upcoming Rio Olympics. The carrier should also immensely benefit if 100% foreign ownership is allowed in the nations carriers. Further, the bottom line is expected to expand 38.6% in 2017, way above the industry average of 7%. Zacks Rank #2 Growth Score: A Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report GOL LINHAS-ADR (GOL): Free Stock Analysis Report DELTA AIR LINES (DAL): Free Stock Analysis Report CATHAY PAC AIR (CPCAY): Free Stock Analysis Report SKYWEST INC (SKYW): Free Stock Analysis Report ANA HOLDINGS (ALNPY): Free Stock Analysis Report AMER AIRLINES (AAL): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research From Cosmopolitan On Monday, the Supreme Court handed down the biggest decision to protect the right to access a safe, legal abortion in over 20 years. For the plaintiffs in Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt - a court case challenging the 2013 Texas House Bill 2's requirements that abortion clinics be rebuilt as ambulatory surgical centers and doctors have local hospital admitting privileges - the ruling ended a three-year battle to keep the clinics of Texas open for those who want to end a pregnancy. But Texans weren't the only ones eagerly awaiting a ruling from the eight justices. Along with Texas, a number of other states also passed mandatory local hospital admitting privileges for abortion providers. While most of those other states saw their own laws blocked by federal courts, attorney generals continued to appeal the rulings in the hope that a favorable decision in the Supreme Court could echo down the ladder and overturn those existing injunctions. Now, most of the states are either withdrawing their suits, or the Supreme Court has rejected any requests for a hearing. That means these clinics are finally able to put their own legal challenges to rest and concentrate on providing services to their patients instead. Cosmopolitan.com talked to clinic directors in North Dakota, Wisconsin, Louisiana, and Alabama shortly after the Supreme Court announced their ruling to find out how they were reacting to the news. Tammi Kromenaker, Director, Red River Women's Clinic, North Dakota The Red River Women's Clinic challenged their state's admitting privileges rule in 2013. The law was initially blocked, and the clinic dropped its legal challenge when it obtained privileges through a local hospital. However, if the hospital decided to withdraw privileges, the clinic would be forced to refile a challenge to the law or close its doors. It is the only clinic in the state. I was literally standing on the steps of the Supreme Court when the ruling came out. It was an exhilarating and joyous moment that was spent with many advocates, allies, and my other independent providers. Story continues Feeling the victory in person, well, it's indescribable. Our attorneys are still analyzing the decision in regards to the admitting privileges law that was already passed in North Dakota in 2013. One of my biggest fears for the upcoming legislative session was the ASC requirements [ambulatory surgical center requirements, another aspect of H.B. 2 that was also ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in the case]. These would be impossible to comply with in our current location. We have proven over the nearly 18 years that Red River Women's Clinic has been providing abortions for the women in our region that we can provide them with an excellent safety record in a clinic setting. The Supreme Court today affirmed what providers have known for years, that onerous hospital-like requirements do not advance the safety or well-being of women seeking abortions. This decision today, along with the six-week abortion ban being turned down by the Supreme Court, should send a message to North Dakota state legislators that women's health and safety is best left to doctors. Today is a good day for the women of Texas, and with a 53 majority opinion, to women all over the U.S. who rely on their local clinics to provide high-quality abortion services. Today's ruling is a victory for abortion care providers. Kathleen Pittman, Clinic Administrator, Hope Medical Clinic, Louisiana Hope Medical Clinic was one of the three clinics challenging admitting privileges in Louisiana, which would have closed all but one clinic in the state. The Supreme Court blocked that law until it could reach a decision in Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt. I am normally off on Mondays but came in for the announcement, so I was at the office. We were seeing patients for their state-mandated first visit [Louisiana now requires patients to have two in-clinic doctor's appointments, 72 hours apart - the first an exam with an ultrasound, and the second one the actual procedure]. To say I was elated sounds so benign! Our admitting privileges [requirement] remains enjoined, but this decision leaves no doubt [that] we should expect good things when we go back to the Fifth Circuit. I believe this will provide us with stronger grounds to challenge these sham laws. Wendie Ashlock, Director, Affiliated Medical Services, Wisconsin Affiliated Medical Services sued to challenge Wisconsin's admitting privileges law, which would have left it unable to offer services, and claimed it would overburden the other clinics forced to take on their patients. The Seventh Circuit agreed, blocking the law, and Wisconsin appealed to the Supreme Court to overturn that ruling. When the ruling came, I was alone in my living room doing the happy dance and texting all the staff to let them know we can all breathe a little easier and continue to help the women who need us. I am so pleased that the high court made a ruling on the true health and well-being of a women that's not based on religious ideology or junk science. I think it will keep the admitting privileges injunction in place, but the state has appealed it for the second time. [Editor's note: Soon after this interview, the Wisconsin admitting privileges appeal was rejected.] Gloria Gray, Director, West Alabama Women's Center, Alabama West Alabama Women's Center was one of many clinics challenging admitting privileges in Alabama, which would have closed all but one clinic in the state. A U.S. district judge blocked the law from being implemented. I was at the Supreme Court, standing by the street, blocking pro-lifers' signs by putting mine in front of them. The antis around me acted as though no decision had been announced. Not sure if they were in denial or trying to act like they did not hear the decision. Trust me, we made sure they heard! I have tears of absolute joy! It was an electrifying atmosphere, and I'm so happy to be a part of history on the right side of justice. Unfortunately, I don't think the battle is over for Alabama. We still have the 2,000-foot bill and D&E ban to fight [two recent Alabama laws, one of which forbids a clinic to operate 2,000 feet from a school and would shut the Tuscaloosa and Huntsville clinics, which perform 72 percent of all abortions in the state and are the only providers offering second trimester abortion, the other of which would essentially eliminate most abortion after the first trimester altogether]. I do feel and hope this will make politicians think twice before they pass these bills they know are unconstitutional and waste taxpayers' dollars. Follow Robin on Twitter. Just three days after a shocking vote to leave the European Union, millions of Britons are asking for a do-over. But is it possible to stop the process? Technically, yes. While the chances are slim, there are several ways the UK could reverse course. 1) Members of Parliament vote against it The referendum vote to leave the EU is not bindingthe decision must be officially ratified by Parliament, following any legal challenges. This gives the Members of Parliament, who mostly oppose the Brexit, an opportunity to vote to stay in the EU. However, the people have spoken, and the MPs have a responsibility to represent their interests. Opposing the will of the people is not going to help you get elected next time, particularly if you are in a marginal constituency, write James Knightley, Chris Turner and Carsten Brzeski of ING Group. 2) A re-do referendum Over 3 million UK residents signed a petition on Parliaments site demanding a second vote take place, the largest petition the governments website has ever seen. Parliament must debate any proposal with over 100,000 signatures. The petition, which launched before the referendum, asked for a second vote on EU membership if support for the remain or leave vote was below 60% with turnout under 75%. Thursdays British exit vote had only 52% backing on a 72% turnout. While the petition must be considered by Parliament, members do not need to act on it. 3) EU concessions Before Britain invokes Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, the never-used provision that sets out how a country would leave the union, the EU could negotiate more favorable terms with the UK. The EU offered major concessions after Danish voters initially rejected the Maastricht Treaty and Irish voters opposed both the Nice and Lisbon Treaties. It is therefore possible that some members want to keep the EU together at all costs and are prepared to offer the UK more on migration, write Knightley, Turner and Brzeski. Story continues However, given that the free movement of people is one of the EUs central tenets, many EU members will likely oppose further negotiations on this front, add Knightley, Turner and Brzeski. Getting an agreement to give the UK more power to control EU migration whilst staying in the EU does not appear to be a probable outcome, they write. 4) Scotland and Northern Ireland veto the decision Per the Scotland Act 1998, the Scottish Parliament would need to approve measures that remove EU law from Scotland, according to the House of Lords report The Process of withdrawing from the European Union. The report states that same might be true for Northern Ireland. However, this is simply an interpretation and not the letter of the law. Also, the UK Parliament ratified the Scotland Act, and its possible they could override a potential veto by amending the Act. Oh my! Looks like Scotland and Northern Ireland may have a veto on #Brexit process - p 19 https://t.co/7aqGpTDlBn pic.twitter.com/82zR5UFPfw Jim Fitzpatrick (@jimfitzbiz) June 25, 2016 Going forward What we do know is that the longer it takes to decide the outcome, the greater the political and economic costs for both the UK and the EU, write Knightley, Turner and Brzeski. Given that Prime Minister David Cameron has already announced his resignation and many EU members are calling for a quick separation, the path toward a Brexit will likely be difficult to stop. Its not an amicable divorce, but it never really was a close love affair anyway, said Jean-Claude Juncker, EU Commission President. Follow Justine Underhill on Twitter @jj_under In the summertime, when the temperatures sizzle, there are few things as alluring as skipping town to enjoy a cool breeze and enticing outdoor attractions in an exotic locale. While deciding to plan a relaxing summer getaway is simple, pulling off a stress-free trip that dodges common pitfalls -- from petty theft to currency scams -- can present a challenge. In the summer, when the majority of jet-setters are infrequent, leisure travelers, "scams are ubiquitous," says Christopher Elliott, a consumer advocate and journalist. For this reason, we consulted top travel experts for advice on avoiding rip-offs and outsmarting swindlers on your next trip. [See: 10 Common Pieces of Travel Advice You Should Never Follow.] The Fee-Free Online Listing Hoax With a growing number of online travel booking sites, there's an influx of hoax third-party domains across the web. According to research conducted by the American Hotel and Lodging Association, some $1.3 billion is funneled into the hands of scammers each year. And with a rapidly increasing number of mobile bookings, it's become more challenging to distinguish between trustworthy and dubious travel sites. These sites offer fake reservations, which lack services or amenities or advertise higher nightly rates and can even lead to identity theft. Travel booking sites are also starting to quote low nightly rates but tack on extra fees throughout the reservation booking process, Elliott says. "You can end up with a grand total that's 20 to 50 percent higher than when you started. You're already psychologically invested in the transaction, and they know it," he explains. Recently, travel companies have also started "hiding the disclosure of these fees in pop-up windows or at the bottom of the screen in even smaller fonts," Elliott says. "Why? Because they can. And because it's very profitable. But it's not an honest profit," he explains. To avoid this vacation-ruining misstep, Elliott suggests closely evaluating the initial price quoted along with the final price, with taxes and other mandatory fees rolled in. "That's particularly true for hotels, many of which charge a mandatory 'resort' fee, but only disclose it after you've started the reservation process," he explains. Story continues "Sometimes, you'll see fantastic flight deals or hotel deals that are only available from one booking site," explains Zach Honig, editor-in-chief of the points-and-miles site The Points Guy. But if it's not a major online travel agency that you're familiar with -- think: Expedia or Priceline -- or one with user-generated reviews from reputable forums, such as FlyerTalk, stay away from it to avoid a fraudulent listing, he says. The Free Wi-Fi Trick If you come across free Wi-Fi access in an empty and unfamiliar internet cafe and it seems too good to be true, it might be. "This is an old trick," explains Shaun Murphy, communication security expert and inventor and co-founder of Sndr, a platform that enables users to share files, emails and social media messages on a single device. While you surf the internet and check your email, a scammer can easily steal your credit card and other sensitive information, he explains. There are also plenty of small devices schemers use to track information through your cellphone. For example, WiFi Pineapple, a $100 wireless platform meant for security auditing, can be used by hackers to get instant access to your phone as soon as you connect to a fraudulent Wi-Fi network. Murphy also recommends avoiding downloading free apps in a suspect location, especially if you're asked to provide your credit card information. And to protect yourself, "always make sure your devices are locked and encrypted," he says, noting it's also critical to have a decent password to safeguard sensitive data while traveling. [See: 8 Simple Ways to Save on Your Beach Getaway This Summer.] The Dynamic Currency Conversion Scam When it comes to making purchases overseas with a credit card, the key is to avoid paying in your home currency (also known as a dynamic currency conversion), Honig explains. Paying in the local currency can make a 1 to 2 percent difference in the exchange rate, he explains. What's more, you may be asked to pay an extra service fee, so while it may seem convenient to pay in a familiar currency, it can be costly. And don't forget, you'll still have to pay foreign transaction fees for dynamic currency conversions, and that fee will likely be a higher dollar amount since the conversion will have hiked up the cost of the purchase. The Streetside Cash Exchange Trick While it may seem like a smart idea to skip converting your currency at the bank to get the best rate, the reality is, it's easy to get duped. Honig recalls a trip to Buenos Aires a few years ago when tourists were incentivized with a favorable exchange rate on the street, with twice as many Argentine pesos offered compared to the bank, and visitors walked away with fake bills. That said, "you can be brought into a currency scam wherever you are," Honig says, making it critical to know the particular security features of the bills in your travel destination to better verify authenticity. When in doubt, it's best to exchange your currency at your bank or an in-network ATM, he adds. The Skimmer Swindle ATM scams are nothing new, but nowadays hackers are finding novel ways to trick travelers into providing personal information through skimming technology, which allows thieves to read cards not only at ATMs, but also at gas stations and other public places. "Criminals are trying to do anything they can do to grab onto that magnetic strip," Murphy says. With the chip and pin, it's becoming more difficult for fraudsters to retrieve this information, but it's still essential to have safeguards in place. "See if you can use a digital app," Murphy suggests, pointing to Apple Pay and Android Pay as safe bets. Apart from using a digital wallet while traveling, he recommends using a separate credit card, rather than a debit card for gas purchases. Honig echoes similar sentiments. "If you're suspicious of an ATM, don't use it," he says, pointing out that while it's easy to spot a fake pin pad, a skimmer is hard to spot. "If you can -- always pay with a credit card," he adds, noting they have enhanced security features to protect against fraudulent activity. [See: 10 Tips to Track Down the Hottest Summer Vacation Bargains.] The Phony Vacation Rental Listing When booking a vacation rental, Honig recommends only using trusted peer-to-peer platforms with a well-regarded reputation, such as Airbnb or HomeAway, which offer added support and security features. With Airbnb, for example, you can protect yourself thanks to tools such as user reviews, a vetted messaging system and verified ID badges, which are given by Airbnb when a user or host confirms their personal details, provides their personal social network or offers an official ID. Honig also recommends renting through a venerable rental site for peace of mind, noting that if you book a bogus stay on Airbnb, you'll get access to alternate accommodations, among other protections. More From US News & World Report This dog was left starving, dehydrated and abandoned in a ditch with a chain embedded in its neck. But thanks to the kind actions of a Good Samaritan, the brown and white male Boxer is now set to make a full recovery after being rescued and nursed back to health. (Pictures: ABC) A woman had spotted the emaciated dog in a ditch in Birmingham, Alabama and managed to flag down a passing police car to report it. The officers went back to the area and found the dog lying in the ditch with a chain wrapped so tightly round its neck that skin had grown around it, causing a severe cut. The dog was also severely dehydrated. The deputies gave the dog water and contacted Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) who are now taking care of the dog as it recovers. The chain has been taken off and staff told the Life With Dogs website that the dog is likely to make a full recovery. Jefferson County Sheriff Chief Deputy Randy Christian told Life with Dogs: This is a beautiful dog. We want to know how it ended up where it did and in this condition. To do that we have to find the owner. Were looking at the extent of the injuries, the time this possibly went on, that will lead us to possible charges. When you abuse and neglect a dog, much like if you did it to a child, our society is not going to put up with it. Last night, the Board Of Governors of the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences approved a record-shattering 683 new members, more that double last years 322, which had been the most given keys to Oscars kingdom previously. Beyond that though there was tremendous pressure to come up with a list that goes a long way in diversifying the membership, especially to meet the Academys goal stated on January 22 to double the number of diverse members in the organization by 2020 meaning women and people of color. Although the numbers released today were impressive, with a total of 46% of new members being female and 41% people of color, it only inched the Academy toward its goal by increasing female members to an overall 27%, up just 2% from last year, and people of color to overall 11%, which is up just 3% from last year, before the latest #OscarsSoWhite crisis engulfed the Oscar race and sent the Academy spinning into crisis mode. Still, when you look inside the enormous new member list the Academy is clearly on the right track, but will have much more to do in the next four years to meet its desired mark. What also was impressive was the sheer number of truly great international filmmakers entering the hallowed group for the first time, from 80-year-old double Palme dOr winner Ken Loach to 25-year-old Canadian wonder director Xavier Dolan. Overall, the numbers of international members increased by an astounding 283, proving the branches did their job in reaching out on a global basis. A total of 59 countries are involved in that number, making the Academy look more like the United Nations than ever before. It makes you wonder if the organization was just lazy in the past in seeking out these world-class movie makers. When I spoke to Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs today she agreed they needed a kickstart. As much as that (member recruitment) activity had been working, maybe it wasnt working well enough, and especially with regard that we wanted to make sure everyone knew this was a global organization, she said, while praising the efforts of the 17 individual branches who rose to the occasion this year. And certainly thats true for many distinguished filmmakers throughout the world who had no idea they could become members. We realized that, and all this diversity conversation helped in many ways. But the Academy is really open and thats something many people dont get. Story continues Boone Isaacs said the criteria is set and monitored by each branch and they must take into account that this just isnt your fathers movie business anymore. The industry is changing, its evolving, its increasing, she said. The interest in the international world is at its height, more than it has been in a very long time with the proliferation of feature animated films, of documentaries, of diverse storytelling, new technologies in producing and distributing movies. We need to stay on top of that. As an example of where this drive really took hold in the class of 2016 is the increase in the number of women admitted to the Directors Branch, which until now has largely been a small boys club numbering less that 400. Of the 91 new directors admitted today more than 50 of them are female, and many of color. Previously there were 35 women and now there are 88 isnt that something? she said. The directors branch really rallied and came together and did their homework. They talked about the talent that was out there and were not part of our organization. They were absolutely fabulous. She noted the often-heard laments about not enough women being hired to direct, but said this should help change the trajectory. This is a change that I truly believe people in our industry are ready for and want. This conversation has really exploded and energized people in so many different ways. A few months ago you might not have thought the increase of women in the Directors Branch would be this,would you? she asked. And we are going to continue to keep this conversation going with regard to inclusion and that is of genre, of storytelling, of skill sets, of age, of gender, of national origin and people of color, all of it because that is the vibrancy of the motion picture business. This is our goal. Among the new women directors by the way are Lana and Lily Wachowski, meaning you can also add transgendered people to the list of minorities for whom the Academy has swung opens its doors. Still, going by the demographics the Academy supplied today with 27% women and 11% people of color, that adds up to 38%.That means, unless animals like Lassie are also voting members, that 62% of the group remains white males still a dominant number (it is even higher if women of color are counted twice in those aformentioned categories). Boone Isaacs didnt have, or just didnt want to offer, the Academys official figure on that when I asked, but do the math. The stats of our organization being overwhelmingly white male? Not so good, she said. Steps (for change) started actually a few years ago. It didnt just start in January. Its like driving a car. You are going from first into second and third and fourth. Thats just the way it is, she added, noting that an effort to recruit younger and more relevant members to join that was started by then-President Gregory Peck in the late 1960s and early 70s has some similarity to what todays Academy is doing. Both drives had to do with inclusion, both drives had to do with relevancy and conversation, and thats what they have in common, she said. But will it change the way Oscars are handed out? Will this new fresh blood make a difference and prevent a third consecutive embarrassing year with no people of color in any of the four acting categories? Boone Isaacs didnt take a strong stand on that. Oscar voting is part of a democracy done in private, one vote for each member and all equal in that regard. I am hoping we recognize the best talent there is in the year, she said. We are an organization of professionals. We are now bringing in more diverse voices, but these are people at the top of their form. Actors, cinematographers and everyone else know exactly what they are looking for and thats not going to change. But I think the diversity of product is going to be wider so ergo there is more chance of diversity for nominations. Many are looking to Fox Searchlights upcoming October release and Sundance sensation The Birth Of A Nation about the Nat Turner -led slave revolt to be a real player this year and help ease criticism of the Academy. That films writer, director, producer and star Nate Parker was one of the new members inducted today. As for the much-discussed upcoming Board Of Governors election, which for the first time was open to everyone in the Academy, voting for each branchs four finalists begins today and runs through July 12. Judging by the very white and establishment-oriented list of finalists that includes 10 incumbents running for re-election, Boone Isaacs is aware it is not all it could be but is sanguine. Its year one, and certainly with todays news this is an evolution and a change and you are going to see more people wishing to get involved, not only becoming members now but to get involved, she said. I think each year we will just keep growing and changing. Related stories Academy OKs New Rules On Oscar Qualifying Runs, Campaigning Oscars: Academy Reveals Dates For Nominations & Voting On 89th Annual Awards Show Movie Academy Stresses Diversity As It Invites Record 683 For Membership Including Nate Parker, Freida Pinto & the Wachowskis Paris (AFP) - Hamza Attou, accused of helping key Paris attacks suspect Salah Abdeslam flee to Brussels, has been charged and taken into custody in France, the Paris prosecutor said Thursday. The 22-year-old Belgian has been charged over his role in accompanying Abdeslam back to Brussels shortly after the Islamic State-claimed attacks in the French capital on November 13 left 130 dead and hundreds more wounded. Another man, Mohamed Amri, was in the car when they got past three police checks in France before crossing the border into Belgium. France is seeking Amri's extradition as well as that of Ali Oulkadi, who dropped Abdeslam off at a Brussels address on November 14. Belgium handed Attou over to France on Wednesday, the Belgian federal prosecutor's office said earlier. Abdeslam, the only surviving member of the 10-man jihadist team that attacked Paris, was extradited to France in April. Attou told Belgian investigators that Abdeslam called him and Amri late on November 13 to ask them to come for him "because he had had an accident," according to a source close to the case. He claimed that they did not know of Abdeslam's involvement in the attacks until after they joined him in Paris. The source quoted Attou as saying that Abdeslam told them he was "the sole survivor of these attacks" and that "they would pay for my brother's death". Abdeslam's brother Brahim blew himself up outside a Paris cafe during the attacks. Attou also said Abdeslam told him his explosives belt had failed to detonate. An unexploded suicide belt bearing Abdeslam's DNA was found in a southern Paris suburb 10 days after the attacks. Once in Brussels, Attou said he took Abdeslam to a market to buy new clothes and to get a haircut before taking him to Oulkadi, who showed him to a safe house in the city's Schaerbeek area. Amri and Attou were arrested on November 14 in Brussels' Molenbeek district -- where Abdeslam grew up -- and charged in Belgium. Belgium agreed to extradite Attou to France earlier this month but on condition that he serve any jail time in Belgium. Aerial footage released by the California Office of Emergency Services shows the extent of the damage caused by the Erskine Fire in Kern County. The wildfire has burned 46,684 acres as of Thursday, June 30, and is 70 percent contained. The fire ripped through Lake Isabella and surrounding communities on June 23, triggering evacuations. Residents have been able to return to their homes in the last few days to assess damage. The number of deaths attributed to the southern California wildfires rose to four this week when two bodies were found in the Border Fire in San Diego County. Two people also died in the Erskine Fire. This video shows burned out homes across the area, though it seems some buildings survived in the middle of the destruction. Credit: YouTube/California Office of Emergency Services (Recasts, adds analyst quote) PARIS, June 30 (Reuters) - Airbus Group and Safran pledged on Thursday to make Europe competitive in the face of U.S. low-cost rival SpaceX as they completed a deal to merge their space launcher activities. The two aerospace groups said they were closing a deal that paves the way for the next generation of European rocket, the Ariane 6, which will make its first flight in 2020 and be used to put commercial and military satellites into orbit. The long-awaited deal calls for the integration of industrial assets, turning their existing Airbus Safran Launchers venture into an operational concern with 8,400 employees in France and Germany. The heads of both companies pledged to focus on making the venture competitive after Europe's position in the commercial launch market was threatened by Elon Musk's Space Exploration Technologies, or SpaceX, which intends to offer cut-rate launch services by re-using its rockets. Under the final deal, French engine maker Safran will pay Airbus Group 750 million euros ($832 million) to ensure an equal 50/50 ownership split in the new venture -- slightly less than a previously expected figure of 800 million.. "They needed to complete this deal so that they are ready to design an entire launcher for civil customers rather than government requirements, forcing the agencies to accept what they have done for their customers rather than work with what governments want," an analyst said, asking not to be named. The deal had earlier been held up for months as the two companies and the French government debated how the payment to Airbus should be treated for tax purposes. French tax regulations are not easily applicable to a partnership of equals in which both companies view the stake as strategic, and are locked in for the long term, so a compromise was reached sparing Airbus a hefty tax bill. Separately, the Safran board will meet on Thursday to make a preliminary selection from a dozen offers for its Morpho biometrics and security business, sources told Reuters on Wednesday. ($1 = 0.9015 euros) (Reporting by Tim Hepher; editing by Michel Rose and Keith Weir) PARIS (Reuters) - Airbus Group (AIR.PA) and Safran (SAF.PA) pledged on Thursday to make Europe competitive in the face of U.S. low-cost rival SpaceX as they completed a deal to merge their space launcher activities. The two aerospace groups said they were closing a deal that paves the way for the next generation of European rocket, the Ariane 6, which will make its first flight in 2020 and be used to put commercial and military satellites into orbit. The long-awaited deal calls for the integration of industrial assets, turning their existing Airbus Safran Launchers venture into an operational concern with 8,400 employees in France and Germany. The heads of both companies pledged to focus on making the venture competitive after Europe's position in the commercial launch market was threatened by Elon Musk's Space Exploration Technologies, or SpaceX, which intends to offer cut-rate launch services by re-using its rockets. Under the final deal, French engine maker Safran will pay Airbus Group 750 million euros (621 million pounds) to ensure an equal 50/50 ownership split in the new venture -- slightly less than a previously expected figure of 800 million.. "They needed to complete this deal so that they are ready to design an entire launcher for civil customers rather than government requirements, forcing the agencies to accept what they have done for their customers rather than work with what governments want," an analyst said, asking not to be named. The deal had earlier been held up for months as the two companies and the French government debated how the payment to Airbus should be treated for tax purposes. French tax regulations are not easily applicable to a partnership of equals in which both companies view the stake as strategic, and are locked in for the long term, so a compromise was reached sparing Airbus a hefty tax bill. Separately, the Safran board will meet on Thursday to make a preliminary selection from a dozen offers for its Morpho biometrics and security business, sources told Reuters on Wednesday. ($1 = 0.9015 euros) (Reporting by Tim Hepher; editing by Michel Rose and Keith Weir) VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 30, 2016 / ALIX RESOURCES CORP. (Alix or the Company) (AIX-TSX:V) (37N2FRANKFURT) is pleased to announce the assay results of the recent round of sampling at the Electra Project in Sonora, Mexico, where values as high as 246.0 parts per million (ppm) lithium (Li) confirmed a target sedimentary assemblage with the potential of hosting economic lithium-bearing, clay-rich horizons. The Electra lithium project is contiguous to Baconora/REMs Buenavista Lithium project. Mike England, president of Alix, stated: "These recent anomalous and enriched lithium values from clay-rich sedimentary sequences on our Tecolote concession are encouraging and bear similarities to Bacanora/REMs early stage findings at Buenavista. Once we receive the results from the next round of sampling we will likely proceed with a drilling program designed to further explore the lithium potential of this property. We are obviously in the right location and the mineralization to date found on the property is very promising to our exploration team. Our drill campaign will likely include a series of shallow drill holes in key geological targets such as the sedimentary assemblage and also in some alluvium-covered areas. The objective is to discover lithium-rich clay layers similar to that of the Bacanora/REM Buenavista deposit." Previous work carried out last December on the Electra lithium project led to the discovery of a lithium-bearing, clay-rich showing on the company's northern Tecolote concession adjoining the Bacanora Minerals Ltd. (BCN-TSX:V) and Rare Earths Minerals PLC (REM-LON))'s Buenavista concessions (PR 2016-01-06). Reverse circulation drilling by Bacanora/REM's on the Buenavista concession has discovered a clay-rich layers (the Buenavista Li deposit) in a sedimentary sequence over an area of 6 by 1.25 km (BCN PR, 2014-11-03). Alix geologists, along with a contracted geologist with previous working experience on Bacanora/REMs Buenavista concession, revisited the showing discovered in December on the Tecolote concession, which returned a peak value of 211.0 ppm Li. Geological mapping and prospecting identified a distinct, sedimentary package containing clay-rich layers. This target area has been designated the Central Basin. In total, 42 samples were collected from claystones, sandstones and siltstones exposed in the target sedimentary sequence, yielding and average Li value of 167 ppm and a peak concentration of 272 ppm, which is considered very anomalous. The sampling program identified two target areas located in the Central Basin and underlain by the target sedimentary sequence. The first target, the eastern area, is approximately 1,100 m long by 250 to 400 m wide. The second target area is located east of the Barisuqe river and 700 m SW of the first target and measures roughly 400 by 150 m. The zone in between the targets has also been mapped and is covered by extensive, thin alluvial sediments that may be underlain by the same prospective sedimentary sequence. Both target areas in the Central Basin are likely to be expanded given the relatively flat-lying nature of the sedimentary beds and extensive, thin alluvial cover. Additional sampling and geological mapping has been completed and assays are pending. On Bacanora/REM's Buenavista concession, the lithium-bearing clay-rich layers were little exposed and required drilling to define and understand the sedimentary stratigraphy. Management has also determined to not proceed with the previously announced (see PR Jan 11, 2016) acquisition of the Gran 2 property. The technical contents of this release were approved by Michel Boily, PhD, P.Geo a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. The properties have not been the subject of a National Instrument 43-101 report. About Alix Resources Alix Resources is a junior mining exploration company focused on seeking and acquiring world class lithium projects globally. Alix continues to evaluate suitable prospects that fit the mandate of the Company. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Michael England Michael England, President, CEO, Director FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Telephone: 1-604-683-3995 Toll Free: 1-888-945-4770 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Alix Resources Corp. The luxury shoemaker is pulling out all the stops to celebrate its 20th anniversary, signing up not one but seven internationally renowned models for its latest campaign. Amber Valletta, Milla Jovovich, Lexi Boling and Sasha Pivovarova are among the big names joining festivities to celebrate two decades of high-end shoe design. Jimmy Choo has called on Craig McDean to shoot the key pieces of the brand's autumn/winter 2016-2017 collection. The fashion photographer has sought to capture the essence of the Jimmy Choo woman, channeling a blend of innate confidence, effortless glamour and daring spirit. Shot in New York, the campaign highlights the personality of each model rather than presenting an army of models, as has often been the case these past few seasons. Each model can be seen striking a pose against a minimalist purple-toned backdrop, focusing on the presence and charisma of each of the young stars. "The Autumn Winter campaign is a reflection of the characters who embody the Jimmy Choo brand values both during the past 20 years and into the future. It is a modern vision for our woman and signals a bold new chapter," said Sandra Choi, creative director of Jimmy Choo. The campaign stars Amber Valletta, Milla Jovovich, Sasha Pivovarova, Taylor Hill, Lexi Boling, Jasmine Tookes and Xiao Wen Ju, and showcases iconic footwear designs for the upcoming season, such as the "Maloy" boots, "Trick" sandals, "Romy" stiletto pumps, "Mari" sandals and "Monroe" boots. Americans overwhelmingly want to buy and ride in self-driving cars, but they do not want the "brains" of those vehicles to come from automakers, a new survey has found. Global consulting firm AlixPartners surveyed more than 1,500 people between the ages of 18 and 65 and found that 73 percent would like a vehicle to do all of the driving. Yet when asked who they would trust more to program the car's software, 41 percent chose the experts in Silicon Valley. That compares with 26 percent who selected Japanese automakers, and 17 percent who opted for Detroit's Big Three. When it comes to building these vehicles, however, respondents said they have the most trust in the three major U.S. automakers Ford (F), General Motors (GM) and Fiat Chrysler (FCA-IT). "People want the traditional automakers to be the brawn, building these cars, and they want tech firms to be the brains of the cars," said Mark Wakefield, head of the Americas automotive practice at AlixPartners. The distinction is important because automakers and tech firms, who are investing billions to develop self-driving cars, have resisted forming partnerships. That's in part because they cannot agree on who will own the artificial intelligence, software and revenue streams coming from self-driving cars. After Fiat Chrysler announced a partnership with Google to develop a test fleet of autonomous-drive minivans in May , FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne clarified that the deal was limited. When asked who would own the data collected by the self-driving vehicle, the executive said, "We need to get to a stage where the car is viable so we can discuss the spoils of that work. We're not there." There have been rumors of other partnerships, but none have been announced. Late Wednesday, Bloomberg reported that BMW is working with Intel and Mobileye on a self-driving vehicle . As automakers and tech firms race to develop self-driving cars on their own, AlixPartners' research indicates the players in Silicon Valley are winning in the minds of many consumers. When the research and consulting firm asked Americans to name a self-driving car, 42 percent said Google (GOOGL). The second most-common answer was Tesla (TSLA), at 23 percent. The traditional automaker registering the highest score was Ford, at 5 percent. Story continues "Consumers see Google and Tesla as being on the front line of autonomous-drive technology," Wakefield said. It's easy to see why. Over the last two years there have been numerous news reports about the Google car driving around the Silicon Valley. Meanwhile, Tesla's autopilot technology allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel for short periods of time. Like the Google car, there is plenty video on the internet showing Tesla owners driving hands free. But Wakefield said the public still sees a huge role for automakers in developing self-driving cars. In fact, 33 percent of consumers surveyed said they trust the Big Three most when it comes to providing the best value for a self-driving car. That compares with 18 percent who chose tech firms in Silicon Valley. Meanwhile, the Big Three also topped the list for whom consumers trust the most to build a self-driving car. Wakefield said part of the discrepancy between customer preferences could boil down to automakers' spotty record with infotainment systems, which have become a top complaint among new car buyers. "Infotainment systems in vehicles continually lag the performance of mobile phones," Wakefield said. Questions? Comments? BehindTheWheel@cnbc.com . Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland is on lockdown after reports of an active shooter, according to a spokesperson from the base. The report of the shooter at Malcolm Grow Medical Facility came at 9 a.m., an Air Force hospital, a spokesperson for the base tells PEOPLE. Security forces are currently responding, the spokesperson says. There are no details on how many shooters there might be, says the spokesperson. "Our first and main priority is the safety of our personnel," the spokesperson says. "JBA is currently on lockdown due to a report of an active shooter. All personnel are directed to shelter in place. More info as it comes," a tweet from the base read. The spokesperson says the base was scheduled to have a drill for an active shooter at this time, but they are responding to the report as if it is real. The military facility, located in Camp Springs, Maryland, is the home of Air Force 1. President Barack Obama left from the base yesterday for Ottowa, Canada. JBA is currently on lockdown due to a report of an active shooter. All personnel are directed to shelter in place. More info as it comes. a Joint Base Andrews (@JBA_NAFW) June 30, 2016 This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates. Beijing (AFP) - Apple is being sued by China's media regulator over rights to an obscure patriotic film, a Beijing court said Thursday, in the latest legal battle for the US tech giant in one of its crucial overseas markets. China's State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) claims that Apple has violated its exclusive online broadcast rights to the 1994 movie "Xuebo Dixiao" -- whose title roughly translates to "Blood-Splatter our Strong Enemies" -- by allowing viewers to access the film on the "Youku HD" app downloadable via the company's online store. SAPPRFT has filed suit against both Apple and the Chinese video streaming platform Youku, according to a statement posted on the official website of the Beijing Haidian District People's Court, where the case has been received. SAPPRFT believed the violation had cost the organization "huge economic losses", the court statement said. The little-known movie in question tells the tale of a young patriotic Chinese doctor who fights against Japanese occupying forces in the 1930s to open a hospital. SAPPRFT has demanded that the two defendants immediately stop streaming the film, and together pay 50,000 yuan ($7,500) in damages, as well as approximately $3,000 in accrued legal fees, according to the court statement. The case was "currently under further investigation", it added. Youku Tudou, known as China's Youtube, was acquired last year by tech giant Alibaba for an estimated $4.8 billion. China is an increasingly important market for Apple as it deals with a slowdown in global smartphone sales. The suit is the latest in a series of legal hurdles for the company in the world's second-largest economy. In mid-May, a court ruled that Apple had violated design patents of Chinese maker Shenzhen Baili for its iPhone6 and iPhone 6 Plus, and would be barred from selling those models. Their sale has yet to be curtailed in China pending Apple's appeal of the decision. Last month, the company also lost a suit against a small maker of "iphone"-branded leather goods, with a Beijing court ruling that Chinese manufacturer Xintong Tiandi had not violated trademark law when using the word on wallets, handbags and phone cases. A new poll says that Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, holds a slim lead over Democratic challenger Patty Judge. The Loras College Poll released Thursday says Grassley is ahead of Judge, a former lieutenant governor, by a 46 percent to 45 percent margin. Nine percent were undecided, the poll said. The poll also said 49 percent of respondents had a favorable opinion of Grassley while 41 percent saw him unfavorably. About 10 percent had no opinion or refused to answer. Meanwhile, 41 percent had a favorable view of Judge while 23 percent had an unfavorable view. About 36 percent of respondents had no opinion or hadnt heard of Judge. That large number of people without an opinion leaves open the possibility that Republican criticism of Judge during the campaign could drive up her unfavorable ratings, said Christopher Budzisz, the poll director. Still, in this volatile year, Sen. Grassley appears to be facing a tougher challenge than most people would have predicted earlier this year, he said. Despite the close margin overall, Budzisz noted 70 percent of poll respondents said they expect Grassley to win. The poll was conducted June 24-28 and sampled the opinions of 600 likely voters. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 4 percentage points. A Public Policy Polling survey of 897 registered voters in Iowa, which was released earlier this week, said Grassley held a wider lead over Judge, 46 percent to 39 percent. There's a new landmark just off Interstate 280 in Cupertino, California. Commuters can now see from their car windows a mammoth five-story parking garage that can hold 11,000 vehicles. The recently completed garage seems to go on forever. But hidden behind that garage is Apple's $5 billion jewel, its new campus that former CEO Steve Jobs once said had a shot to be the best office building in the world. Apple hopes to move employees into its new "spaceship" campus early next year and construction appears to be on track. In a new video from Matt Roberts, we get a look at Apple Campus 2 just six months from completion. The beautiful drone flyover footage highlights Apple's massive solar panel installations, a more fully completed exterior, and yes, Apple's massive mountain of dirt. Watch here: Here's a look a little closer to ground level from earlier this month: apple campus 2.JPG Here's what a completed section will look like: Apple glass campus And what it's supposed to look like when completed: Apple Campus NOW WATCH: Bumble founder: Here's what's seriously wrong with the growing trend in Silicon Valley called 'brogramming' More From Business Insider (Adds comments from Argentina's Finance Minister) By Joanna Zuckerman Bernstein and Antonio De la Jara BUENOS AIRES, June 29 (Reuters) - Argentina's economy grew 0.5 percent in the first quarter, confounding expectations it would shrink, the government said on Wednesday, adding that it saw activity evening out this year before accelerating in 2017. The year-on-year result, published by the newly revamped Indec statistics agency, followed analysts' forecasts for a 1.3 percent contraction for the January through March period, according to a Reuters poll. Latin America's third largest economy was helped by 7.5 percent growth in its fishing sector and 4.2 percent expansion in transport. Construction and agriculture, crucial because the country is a grains-exporting powerhouse, both fell by more than 5 percent, Indec said. The result follows efforts by President Mauricio Macri, who took office in December, to boost the economy through free-market measures. Indec also revised its 2015 growth figure to 2.37 percent from the 2.1 percent expansion Macri's government initially reported for last year. "There's a mix in the economy. There are sectors that are moving along at a good pace and other sectors that are dragging," Argentine finance minister Alfonso Prat-Gay said on the sidelines of the Pacific Alliance trade bloc summit in Puerto Varas, Chile. "We think that by the time we get to the end of the year all this is going to be evened out and certainly, next year will be a year of growth," he added. Macri's government has eliminated currency controls and grains export taxes, lowered utility subsidies, and settled a long-standing lawsuit with bond-holders that had kept the country in default. "We believed that during this reasonable time of six months (H1 2016) some of the things that are going to boost growth in the second half of the year would start to get resolved," Prat-Gay said. Goldman Sachs said in a note to clients that though first quarter growth surprised to the upside it still saw a full-year contraction of 0.2 percent. Story continues Last week Prat-Gay warned the economy needed investment and was at risk of contracting due to a recession in Brazil. Macri's team has overhauled Indec to come up with accurate figures and reestablish confidence in its data. The statistics agency was long accused of reporting inaccurate data under former President Cristina Fernandez. Andres Borenstein, BTG Pactual's chief economist for Argentina, said he did not question the credibility of the figures released Wednesday. "I don't have any reason to suspect any problem with this set of data," he said. (Reporting by Joanna Zuckerman Bernstein; Additional reporting by Walter Bianchi and Antonio de la Jara and Anthony Esposito in Puerto Varas, Chile; Editing by Diane Craft and Andrew Hay) Athenahealth (ATHN), which provides cloud-based services for health care, is revolutionizing the industry by focusing on its information problem. And heres how it's doing it. Athenahealth co-founder and CEO Jonathan Bush told Yahoo Finances Seana Smith in the video above about his company's efforts to shake up health care by getting doctors on the internet. He compared athenahealths strategy to what Amazon (AMZN) founder and CEO Jeff Bezos did for retail. Were going to do the same thing [as Bezos], Bush said, adding that his Massachusetts-based company has taken "a chunk of" the internet and made it secure enough to appeal to mainstream doctors (who are legally bound to protect patients' privacy). Athenahealth supports health care providers across the entire continuum of care by supplying software and mobile apps for patient care and billing. Heres how it works: Doctors can each their patients online, as well as connect with insurance companies, hospitals and laboratories via the web. But with new change comes some challenges. Bush says the health care system is resisting some of the new ideas, and in turn slowing down athenahealths mission to get rid of the red tape thats slowing down doctors on a daily basis. Health care is a slow-moving bird, Bush said. Its a miracle it flies at all. You have the Hippocratic Oath where people dont want to make a mistake and hurt someone. You have, ironically, donations. People actually give money to health systems so they dont have to evolve. But athenahealth is making some progress. The company has 10% of all ambulatory medicine on the cloud. In terms of how it makes money, it does not sell its software; rather, it is paid a percentage of its customers revenue. Despite its growth, some investors and analysts have their doubts. In 2014, Greenlight Capital CEO David Einhorn publicly declared that he has a short position on athenahealth. The company isnt slowing down in the face of criticism. The stock is up nearly 200% over the past five years. Today in 5 Lines President Obama said that anti-immigration attitudes in America have been exploited by demagogues during a summit of North American leaders in Canada. The U.S. Senate passed a procedural vote to offer aid to Puerto Rico, likely helping the territory stave off a historic default. Primary voters in Utah and Colorado elected two transgender Democratic candidates to run for Congress for the first time in U.S. history. North Carolina lawmakers are reportedly considering revising the states controversial bathroom bill. And Turkey suggested ISIS was behind Tuesdays attack at the Istanbul airport, which killed at least 41 people. Today on The Atlantic Donald Trump, Born Again: Evangelicals have largely found the businessman-turned-politician to be brash and offensive. But American evangelical culture loves nothing more than to see a wayward sinner born again, a trope that could help him find more success. (Lincoln Mullen) The Case for Restorative Justice: Criminal prosecutions have largely failed to stop police brutality in America. Perhaps its time for an alternative method: direct mediation between victims of violence and police perpetrators. (Vann R. Newkirk II) Two Years After Hobby Lobby: The U.S. Supreme Court has refused to hear a case brought by the owners of a Washington pharmacy chain who claim that providing emergency contraception violates their religious beliefs. This decisionor lack thereofshows how much the high court has changed since 2014. (Emma Green) Follow stories throughout the day with our Politics & Policy portal. Snapshot President Barack Obama, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Enrique Pena Neito, shake hands during a group photo at the North America Leaders' Summit at the National Gallery of Canada. Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP What Were Reading Haters Gonna Hate: Donald Trump built his campaign on hatehating the establishment, the media, Mexicans, Muslims, Hillary Clintonbut he also represents the disenfranchised, those who feel they are being wronged. (Wesley Morris, The New York Times Magazine) Recommended: Culture Is Replacing Class as the Key Political Divide Story continues Not Your Average Convention: This years Republican National Convention is sure to be different than any other. Who will show up? How will they vote? And will there be enough showbiz to keep people from falling asleep? (Ed OKeefe and David Weigel, The Washington Post) Grappling With A Changing America: After decades of social and economic upheavaland the crumbling of the American middle classboth parties will be forced to redefine themselves, for better or for worse. (Harold Meyerson, The American Prospect) At Least Trump Is Honest?: Both Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump advocate trade policies that would benefit American workers at the expense of the global poor. The key difference: Trump acknowledges this fact, while Sanders pretends that his plan would help everybody. (Jonathan Chait, New York Magazine) Never Been A Time Like This: Groups like the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations, Islamic Circle of North America, and the Arab American Institute have set out to register one million new voters this year in response to the divisive anti-Muslim comments made by Donald Trump. (Lauren Fox, Talking Points Memo) Visualized Nate Silvers Prediction: The famed pollster and head of FiveThirtyEight has crunched the numbers: Hillary Clinton has an 80 percent chance of winning the general election. Check out these graphics to see why. (Nate Silver) Millionaire Migration: How often do rich Americans move away from a state in order to avoid taxes? Not very often, according to a new study published in the American Sociological Review. (Richard Florida, CityLab) Question of the Week Last week, Britain voted to break with the European Uniona decision known as Brexit. If the United States were to leave the United Nations, as Sarah Palin suggested, what would that exits nickname be? Send your answers to hello@theatlantic.com or tweet us @TheAtlPolitics, and our favorites will be featured in Fridays Politics & Policy Daily. -Written by Elaine Godfrey (@elainejgodfrey) Read more from The Atlantic: This article was originally published on The Atlantic. An Australian teenager accused of discussing packing a kangaroo with explosives and setting it loose on police is facing life behind bars after pleading guilty Thursday to planning a terrorist act. Sevdet Besim was arrested in Melbourne last year when he was 18 and accused of planning to run down police officers with a car, behead them and then shoot other people at an April 25 Anzac Day parade for Australia's soldiers. He pleaded guilty to one charge of "doing an act in preparation for or planning a terrorist act", a Supreme Court of Victoria spokeswoman told AFP, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. A British boy, who was 14 when accused of masterminding the plot via encrypted messages with Besim from his home in northern England, became his country's youngest person convicted of terrorism when sentenced to five years in jail last year. Australian prosecutors have alleged Besim also had online conversations about using the kangaroo during an attack. "They have a general discussion around animals and wildlife in Australia including a suggestion that a kangaroo could be packed with C4 explosive, painted with the IS (Islamic State) symbol and set loose on police officers," the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported, citing court documents. Canberra has been increasingly concerned about home-grown extremism and raised the terror threat alert level to high in September 2014. Authorities have conducted a series of counter-terrorism raids in various cities, while the government has passed new national security laws. Besim is due back in court in August. The auto sector witnessed many positive and negative developments over the last week. While Brexit caused a turmoil in global markets, Ford Motor Co.s F planned exit from Indonesia was not free from trouble either. Meanwhile, Toyota Motor Corporation TM is busy dealing with recalls. Among the positive developments, General Motors Company GM announced a $290 million investment in one of its U.S. plants, while both Toyota and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. HMC reported strong production volumes for May. Meanwhile, reports emerged that Tesla Motors, Inc. TSLA is planning to launch a variant of Model X in China. (Read the previous roundup here: Auto Stock Roundup for Jun 23, 2016) Recap of the Weeks Most Important Stories 1. General Motors announced an investment worth $290 million in its Bowling Green Assembly plant to improve and revamp the facilitys vehicle assembly operations with new technologies and processes. Of the total, $153 million will be utilized for an application to participate in the Kentucky Business Incentive. General Motors will start the upgrade this summer (read more: GM Invests $290M for Upgrades at Bowling Green Assembly). 2. Following Fords January announcement that it will discontinue operations in Indonesia by the end of this year, six Indonesian dealers are seeking compensation worth $75 million. These dealers, which manage 31 Ford dealerships in Indonesia and account for 85% of its total sales in the country, are threatening to file a lawsuit in Jakarta if the company refuses to pay (read more: Ford's Indonesian Dealers Seek $75M in Compensation). 3. Toyota announced that it is recalling 3.37 million vehicles globally for two separate issues. In the first case, Toyota stated that evaporative fuel emissions control units in 2.87 million Prius, Auris compact hatchback and Corolla models may crack. This crack can expand, eventually causing the fuel to leak. The second recall involves 1.43 million cars worldwide with defective airbags. The vehicles recalled mainly include the Prius hybrid, Prius plug-in and the Lexus CT200h manufactured from Oct 2008 to Apr 2012. A small crack in some of the inflators in the driver and passenger side airbags of these vehicles may expand. This may cause the airbags to partially inflate, thereby increasing the risk of injury (read more: Toyota Recalls 3.37M Vehicles Worldwide on Safety Issues). Story continues 4. Tesla will be introducing Model X 75D in the Chinese market on Jul 2, according to sources. Model X 75D is expected to cost 850,000 yuan or around $128,000. The vehicle, featuring a 75kWh battery, will offer a range of 237 miles. Teslas Model X 75D will be the new base model of the Chinese Model X lineup that also consists of the 90D and the P90D. Model X was officially launched in China last month (read more: Tesla Set to Launch Model X 75D in China in July). 5. Toyota and Honda reported their May production data. Hondas production in Japan surged 29.4% to 56,652 units in the month. Production outside Japan increased 9.4% to 341,419 units, which was a record high for the month of May. Consequently, worldwide production volume for May was 398,071 units, up 11.8% from May 2015. The automakers global production volume was a record high for the month of May. Toyotas total worldwide production surged 11.2% year over year to 837,775 units in May 2016. This was backed by a 10.6% rise in production in Japan to 300,299 units and an 11.5% increase in production outside Japan to 537,476 units. Performance Auto sector companies had mixed fortunes on the stock market last week. With a gain of 6.9%, Tesla was leading the winners among the stocks listed below, while Ford lost the most over the week. Over the last six months, Honda lost the most among the stocks listed below. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. AAP was the biggest gainer over this period. Company Last 1-Week Period Last 6 Months GM -3.9% -17.9% F -4.8% -11.4% TSLA +6.9% -11.7% TM -4.7% -17.6% HMC -1.6% -20.4% HOG -3.9% -2.7% AAP +5.1% +6.4% AZO +4.8% +5.7% Auto-Tires-Trucks Sector Price Index Auto-Tires-Trucks Sector Price Index Whats Next in the Auto Space? On Jul 1, 2016, automakers will report their U.S. sales data for June and first-half 2016. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report FORD MOTOR CO (F): Free Stock Analysis Report TESLA MOTORS (TSLA): Free Stock Analysis Report HONDA MOTOR (HMC): Free Stock Analysis Report TOYOTA MOTOR CP (TM): Free Stock Analysis Report ADVANCE AUTO PT (AAP): Free Stock Analysis Report GENERAL MOTORS (GM): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. From Cosmopolitan Nancy and Justin Rohde met on a blind date as students at Northwestern University. They'd been married for three years and had just turned 30 when they decided to start trying to have a baby. "From there," Nancy says, "the nightmare began." They did four failed rounds of IVF, found a surrogate who miscarried and didn't want to try again (an attempt that cost $20,000), and tried IVF again. For three years, they faced disappointment after disappointment. "I got to a point where I had Justin change my Facebook password because I knew it would break me to see all these people my age with kids," Nancy, now 33, recalls. "We should have been right there with them. It just destroys your soul." Then in August 2015, they found a new surrogate - 30-year-old Ashley Brown, a married stay-at-home mom of three near Salt Lake City, Utah. As Ashley began injecting herself with hormones to prepare for Nancy and Justin's embryo, the Rohdes decided to try one final IVF cycle on Nancy to double their odds. They were so sure it wouldn't work, they planned a wine-and-sushi consolation dinner for after the procedure. But two weeks later, a call from the clinic: Nancy was pregnant. "I thought for sure that they had mixed up my blood results with somebody else's," Nancy says. The Rohdes had been told Nancy's uterine lining was likely too thin to support a baby and were still convinced her pregnancy wouldn't survive, so they asked Ashley if she would go ahead with surrogacy. Five weeks to the day after Nancy's positive test, Ashley was pregnant too. After years of struggling to have one child, suddenly Nancy and Justin were expecting two babies - "twinblings" to be born five weeks apart, in two different states, delivered by two different women but with the same biological parents. Cosmopolitan.com spoke with Nancy and Justin, and Ashley and her husband, Josh Brown, each month as they prepared to welcome Nancy and Justin's daughters. This is their story. Story continues March In Chicago, Nancy is seven months pregnant; in Utah, Ashley is six months. The Rohdes and Ashley are working through the delicate relationship between "intended parents" and surrogate. Nancy: The first time we met, we flew Ashley and Josh to Chicago for prenatal tests. I'll be honest, it was uncomfortable. I wasn't pregnant yet and I was still struggling with the idea that I wasn't going to be. It's like you're giving up that dream of carrying a baby. But we liked that Ashley is a very chill person. We're very type-A and intense at times. We were pretty scared when we found out I was pregnant. We were so worried she wouldn't want to continue on with us. [Many surrogates are motivated by the desire to help a couple that can't conceive.] We didn't tell Ashley that I was pregnant until we saw the heartbeat, around seven weeks. Ashley: I probably worry more now than with all my first three pregnancies put together, because I have their worries on me. But they've struggled. That's what my husband always reminds me: "You're not in their shoes. It's their baby." Nancy: I'm still really scared that something is going to go wrong with one or both pregnancies. In general, I feel less anxiety about Ashley's pregnancy than mine. It was the easiest thing ever getting her pregnant. She's like a professional. Ashley: This is my first surrogacy "journey," as they call it, but it's something that I've thought about for over 10 years, even before I got married. I had friends that struggled to get pregnant and a neighbor who delivered a stillborn baby, and it always crossed my mind, I would carry a baby for her. Then I was able to have three easy pregnancies, easy deliveries, and three healthy children. As a mom, I can't imagine not being able to have kids. I enjoy being pregnant, and to be able to do this for somebody it's a win-win. Justin: [Ashley is] really doing this because she wants to do it. She's not doing it for the money. Surrogacy gets a bad rap in the court of public opinion because people simplify it to, "You're paying some poor woman who's probably making minimum wage and she's going to do this to feed her family." Ashley: I knew I got compensated, obviously, but I'm doing it to help them grow their family. The money is just a bonus. We're building a house, and when we had decided I should become a surrogate, I didn't have a job. So, in my mind, I also was thinking that this could be my contribution to our house. [As part of their surrogacy contract, the Rohdes and Ashley agreed not to publicly disclose how much she is being paid.] Josh: In my opinion, raising a family and going through the process of nine months of pregnancy is a full-time job. There's a lot of sacrifice one makes as a surrogate: all the shots in her stomach and hip before IVF, medicine taken by mouth, and all the blood draws and ultrasounds. Nancy: Before we got to Ashley, everything had been fully covered by insurance for us, save a few out-of-network medications. With her costs, it's definitely a hardship. It means that we don't buy a house in the next few years. To us, that was a trade-off worth making. Justin: We did consider that going forward with Ashley meant we could have two babies, but only in a very hypothetical sense. I think we even said jokingly, "Worst case scenario here, we just have two babies out of this." Nancy: When Ashley was 20 weeks, we flew out to Utah and did the 20-week ultrasound. As soon as we saw the baby she's carrying on the screen, that was the moment we were like, Wow, this is really happening. I was feeling the baby in me moving around a lot and Ashley was feeling that as well. We were joking that they were dancing because they were close to each other. April Nancy is eight months pregnant; Ashley is seven months. This month, there are some complications with both babies. Nancy: The baby I'm carrying is measuring very small and the baby that Ashley is carrying is big. Unfortunately, for me, there's a slight abnormality in the placenta so I've been identified as high-risk. We're starting to think maybe this wasn't meant to be and we pushed it too far. Justin: The doctor was like, "Her head is in the third percentile." We're like, "The third percentile? Holy crap, that's terrible." The doctor was like, "No. That's totally fine." Nancy: We had the baby shower a few weeks ago, and a lot of people expected me to be obscenely happy that our luck has changed. One of the people that attended expressed to Justin, "I thought Nancy would be more joyful." It feels sometimes like people think that I should only be ecstatic, which I am, but I don't think they realize all the anxiety that goes with this. Ashley: A few appointments ago, I went in and the baby was breached. That was kind of scary. I was worried I'd have to have a C-section. I was thinking, Is it going to take me longer to recover? I was just being selfish. It's summertime. I want to be able to take my kids to the pool. Obviously, I'll do what needs to be done to have a healthy, safe baby. Nancy: I feel guilty for the impact on her family. I'm so uncomfortable and hormonal, and I imagine that Ashley is as well and that has an impact on her husband, and her children, and her career. [Ashley is now working as a teacher's assistant.] It's not a great feeling to think that she's doing that just for us. Ashley: I just don't want her to feel guilty. Obviously, I wanted to do this. Josh has been so supportive; he was the one who made my surrogate profile with the agency. He probably tells more people I'm a surrogate than I do. Josh: My main concern was her health and well-being, and how it would affect her emotionally. And at first, we weren't sure how to explain it to our children. Ashley: My sons are 2 and 4 so they were oblivious, but my daughter is 6 and she's pretty mature for her age, so I explained that we weren't going to keep the baby. This was Nancy and Justin's baby that I was just growing for them. She was fine about it. One of her little friends asked her if I was pregnant. My daughter responds with, "Yeah, but she's carrying it for somebody else." The poor little first grader probably had no idea what she was talking about. The tentative birth plan is for the Rohdes to deliver the baby Nancy is carrying in Chicago in early May and, a month later, 10 days before Ashley's due date, fly to Utah with their newborn for the birth of their second baby. Justin: We're thinking we'll deliver early because the baby Nancy's carrying is small. Nancy: But what if she's not healthy? What does that mean for travel if the baby I deliver needs to be in the NICU? Justin: We talked about worst-case scenario contingency planning. If Nancy can't travel, I would have to go [to Utah] alone, and that's scary and terrible. Nancy: When I found out there was some concern about the baby's growth, Ashley was probably the second person I texted after Justin. Ashley: We're checking in each with other every week, by text email or email. Nancy's got an app on her phone tracking the two girls and I've got one just for the baby that I'm carrying. It's like, "She's the size of a rollerblade." Last week, she was a bunch of bananas. Nancy: We've tried really hard to connect ourselves to Ashley's pregnancy as much as possible. If the baby gets the hiccups, we stop and feel them, and it's a special moment. We don't ever feel that for the baby that Ashley's carrying. In terms of voices, I worry about that a lot. We don't know if she's going to feel more comfortable around Ashley's voice in the very beginning than she will around ours. We bought a product called Bellybuds where Ashley can put little speakers on her belly, and we can talk to the baby and read books to the baby through audio files. Ashley: The first time I did it, my brother was like, "I can't believe you're going to actually going to do that." As a parent, you worry about things you can't control. When [the baby] comes out, she'll know. She won't be coming to me. She'll get skin to skin with her mom. That will be the smell she knows. That will be the touch she knows. Justin: They may out of instinct hand the baby to Ashley in the delivery room, but Ashley already said very clearly, "No, no, no. I want it to go to Nancy or Justin." Ashley: The most common question I get is, "Are you attached to the baby? Is it going to be hard for you to hand the baby over?" No, because I went into it knowing it's not mine. It's really different from my own pregnancies. Obviously, she's going to be cute and smart, and I think about what she might be when she grows up, but it's not my responsibility. Josh: I never felt attached to the baby. We knew who the parents were and knew we decided to pursue surrogacy to help another couple become parents. Nancy: I don't know if you heard about the Baby M case, the first surrogate legal battle. Basically, the surrogate kept the baby. The agency tries to minimize that risk by making sure that the individuals that are surrogates are done with their family building. Ashley: I'm totally done. I don't have the baby fever. My baby is over 2, and I'm going to hopefully be out of diapers this year. I joke with my husband: "Nancy and Justin have no idea. No idea what's coming." May On May 2, Nancy gives birth to Lillian Quinn in Chicago. She is 5 pounds, 7 ounces, and healthy, but Nancy suffers from multiple complications, including a torn placenta, anemia, and preeclampsia (labor-induced high blood pressure). Meanwhile, Ashley is 35 weeks and preparing for her first surrogacy delivery. Justin: Lilly came out really fast because she was small. Nancy only pushed through four contractions and she popped right out. Nancy: We thought that there might be a problem with the baby, but we never thought that it would be a problem with me. I'm not made to make babies, apparently. In those first few days, I was totally out of it. I think Justin even said to my mom, "Should I be worried that Nancy's not bonding with the baby?" I do not remember her first few days. Justin: I basically took over. I got to bond with Lilly, and I got to hold her, and I was feeding her and changing her and basically doing everything with her. Lilly's birth was super emotional - that, "Oh my god, I'm somebody's dad." I never thought we'd be parents. Nancy: Justin's just amazing. There were times when he would have to help me get my pajamas on because I was in so much pain. Justin: What is stressful as we are taking care of Lilly, Nancy and I were looking at each other going, "How the hell are we going to do this with one more?" Ashley: I was more emotional leading up to Nancy's delivery than any of mine. I was just so excited and nervous for her. When I got the text that Lillian was here, it was like, "OK, one healthy baby down, I got to get them the second." Nancy: When we were looking for a surrogate initially, we wanted her to be open to providing breast milk after delivery. I'm pumping now for Lillian, but I don't know if I can supply for two. And I don't know how the timing works on that because the baby needs colostrum [early breast milk] in the beginning and will the second baby be able to get that? We are sensitive to Ashley's feelings. I'm not sure how I would feel if I had somebody else's child at my breast. Ashley: They just asked if I was interested in pumping. I don't think it's in our legal contract, but whatever I can get out is what I'm going to give them, to help them out. I just can't wait to see the reaction on their faces when they meet her. They already love her, but they are just going to fall in love. June A month after giving birth and receiving a blood transfusion to treat her anemia, Nancy is well enough to travel to Utah with Justin and Lillian four days before Ashley is induced at 39 weeks. After a difficult labor - although the baby is not breach, she is positioned high and takes a long time to descend - Ashley gives birth to the Rohdes' second daughter, Audrey Eleanor, on June 7, 2016, at 8 pounds, 13 ounces. Ashley: I got to the hospital the night before and I didn't really sleep. I didn't know I'd be so nervous. Because she wasn't my baby, I was like, "I just have to get her out safe." Labor and delivery was longer than we were all thinking since it was my fourth pregnancy. Nancy: At one point, a tear slid down her cheek, and it was one of the worst moments in my life. I felt tremendous guilt. I would much rather be the person in pain than watching someone go through that. I felt awkward - I didn't want to get up in her lady parts in any way, so we definitely stood back, and we didn't actually watch our baby being born. We watched it being pulled out and put onto her stomach. Justin: Right when Audrey came out, they put her on Ashley because the cord hadn't been cut yet. I kind of remember Ashley being like, "Rah!" Like, "Why is this baby on me?" Ashley: When she came out and then they laid her on my stomach ... oh, see, now I'm going to cry. Delivering a warm, squishy baby is one of the best feelings in the world. You are on such a high, and filled with happiness and relief. She could have been mine, you know? At the same time, I was like, "Can they see her? Are they close enough?" Justin: We got the cord cut and then immediately did skin to skin with Nancy. Then we basically had Audrey from that point forward. Ashley never had her again except for a couple pictures we took. I was surprised that when I saw Ashley holding Audrey, I was like, "Aah! That's my baby." I was a little worried about bonding happening there. Nancy: I didn't really have that feeling. I bonded quicker with Audrey than Lilly because I was so sick after Lilly. It went the complete opposite way that I expected it would. Josh: When I first saw Audrey, my immediate reaction was, "Let's have another baby." Ashley: I'm like, "No way." Josh: When I looked at Justin and Nancy, and saw their faces and reactions, it was a surreal feeling I knew exactly how they felt. After Audrey's birth, the Rohdes and the twinblings leave the hospital to get their bearings at a timeshare in Park City, Utah, for a week before flying back to Chicago with their daughters. Nancy: We're tired. Overwhelmed. It's frustrating at times when they won't sleep. But I just feel so lucky to hold them. Maybe because of all the trauma we've been through, I'm just like, "Is this real?" Justin: I don't have even the slightest ounce of regret or "What have I gotten myself into?" I have to imagine that people who accidentally have kids probably have a little bit of those feelings. They're so beautiful. I put Lilly down in a pack 'n play and then I put Audrey down next to her and Audrey kind of rolled onto her side to snuggle with Lilly. Nancy: Ashley ended up not pumping because she had a really rough delivery. I just didn't feel like we could even ask for her milk because we have some from me. We are supplementing with formula. Justin: We were in the hospital with the pediatrician the morning after Audrey had been born, and we asked, "Is it OK if she drinks mature breast milk?" The pediatrician was like, "Yeah, that's totally fine, no problem." Then he's like, "Wait a second. Where are you getting mature breast milk?" We're like, "Oh, funny story... " Ashley: I went and visited them the other day, and I thought, Oh my gosh, I'm just going to cry the whole time. I've been a little more emotional after this birth, more so than with my others. Half the time, I don't know why I want to cry. My friend was like, "Well, you grew her for nine months. You've taken care of her, and now you don't have her." It's not that I want her as a baby, and I don't want another baby. It's sort of like, "What now?" Nancy: Some intended parents and surrogates don't really want a relationship afterward, but we and Ashley definitely do. We're going to be extremely open with [the twinblings] about their unique entry into the world. I mean, it's going to be obvious something weird happened. They're five weeks apart. Ashley: I would love little email updates on her: "Hey, she's chewing on her fingers," or, "Oh, she's sitting up." I've already invited myself to her first birthday party. Nancy: This woman is like an angel. She's just so special to us. Ashley: I don't think I want to be a surrogate again because this has gone so well that I don't think any other time could compare. I would do it again for them if they were to want a sibling for the girls. I'm looking forward to seeing them grow as a family. I know Audrey will be so loved throughout her life. Follow Michelle on Twitter. Birth photos courtesy of Sweetly Cherished Photography. The Baltimore Police Department plans to institute a new use-of-force policy on Friday, which requires police officers to intervene if they see another officer is using excessive force. Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announced the policy Wednesday. The Justice Department is currently preparing to release results of an investigation into the Baltimore Police Departments practices, the Baltimore Sun reports. The new policy is the first full rewrite since 2003, according to the paper, and comes over a year after Freddie Grays death last April while in police custody. Grays death sparking widespread protests against police brutality. Six officers were charged in the involvement of Grays death, and they all pleaded not guilty. Last week, Officer Caesar Goodson, who drove the van transporting Gray, was acquitted on all counts in Grays death. Four still await trial. The new policy, which emphasizes the sanctity of human life, also emphasizes de-escalation to reduce conflicts. It says that officers should only use force that is reasonable, necessary and proportional. When police use force, it should also be reported and reviewed. It also requires officers to provide aid to injured people. Gray had requested a medic, but officers did not believe he needed one, and a medic was not called until Gray was found unresponsive. Senior staff attorney at the ACLU of Maryland, David Rocah, told the Sun that the reforms were an improvement, but still contained significant problems. Among other issues, Rocah criticized the rules for not requiring officers to fill out a form when deadly force is used or sufficiently restrict the use of tasers and pepper spray. [Baltimore Sun] SIOUX CITY | Keesha Graham remembers climbing the stairs at the Sgt. Floyd Monument as a student attending elementary school years ago. In June, she retraced her childhood steps and brought her sons to do the same. They came from St. Petersburg, Florida, where Graham has lived for 16 years. She's now a third-grade teacher and thrilled to share local history. "I brought my sons back to see the history of where I grew up," Graham said as Jaxon Graham, 5, and Jayce Graham, 8, took pictures of the country's first national historic monument, a 100-foot obelisk that serves as the fourth and final burial site for Sgt. Charles Floyd, the only man who died on the Lewis & Clark Expedition. Modern-day medical professionals believe Floyd likely died of appendicitis on Aug. 20, 1804. His body was carried to the highest bluff in the vicinity and he was buried with full military honors in a service led by Capt. Meriwether Lewis. The burial site washed away in an 1857 flood, meaning that officials had to collect his remains and bury him again in May 1857, about 600 feet from the original burial site. "We have record of his skull, shoulder blades, a full set of leg bones, a partial set of leg bones and some vertebrae," said Bev Hinds, a Sioux Cityan who serves as president for the Sergeant Floyd Tri-State Chapter, which operates under the umbrella of the Lewis & Clark Trail Heritage Foundation. "We do programs and have obtained grant funds that purchase the 15-star, 15-stripe U.S. flag at the monument, a flag that matches the one flown on the expedition," Hinds said. Hinds also flies that flag at her home. Floyd's journal was found in 1893 and published in 1894. One year later, Sioux City leaders asked about the site of his burial. After locating the grave, his remains were placed in two earthenware urns, which were buried again on Aug. 20, 1895, the anniversary of his death. "After that third burial, John Herr Charles decided there should be a monument for Sgt. Floyd," Hinds said. Charles, who was president of the Floyd Association (which no longer exists), began raising funds to erect a monument. It took five years to raise $20,000, an amount that triggered the start of the monument with the pouring of a concrete base in May 1900. Workers then dug up the urns containing Floyd's remains and buried them for a final time on Aug. 20, 1900. "He's been buried three times on Aug. 20," Hinds said. "He is under the monument." Workers advanced on the monument some 55 feet into the air that summer and then finished the 100-foot structure in 1901. And since that time, thousands of visitors have trekked to the site, a small park that is maintained by the Sioux City Parks Department and overseen by Hinds, who changes out the guest registry every two weeks or so. "I estimate that one or two out of every 10 people there stop to sign the registry," said Hinds, who also does programming at the Sergeant Floyd Welcome Center on Sioux City's Riverfront. "Someone from Micronesia signed in May. We've had visitors from Japan, Germany and Holland in recent months. Last year, we had someone from Belarus stop by." Hinds begins each new registry with her name, her city (Sioux City) and a comment about the day of her visit, often something like, "Beautiful, but windy." "I leave a comment so that people can follow suit," she said. They do. Recent visitors from all over Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and the rest of the U.S. have written comments that vary from "I love Iowa" to "Awesome" to "Beautiful sunset." It offers one of Sioux City's prime vistas, allowing one to peer miles into the distance from a bluff that overlooks Interstate 29, Lewis Boulevard and parts of Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff and South Sioux City, Nebraska -- areas that the Lewis & Clark Expedition experienced for the first time in 1804 as soldiers commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson to find a route to the Pacific Ocean through the vast new territory acquired in the Louisiana Purchase. Visitors still wind their way along that route and find themselves stopping to remember a young soldier who gave his life in the service of his young country. Barcelona (AFP) - Barcelona have agreed a 25-million-euro move for France defender Samuel Umtiti from Lyon, the Spanish giants announced Thursday. Barca president Josep Maria Bartomeu said: "Barca have reached an agreement with Lyon to sign him, but it has to be negotiated with the player. "There's an agreement for 25 million euros." Cameroon-born Umtiti, 22, is currently with the France Euro 2016 squad and looks set to win his first cap in Sunday's quarter-final against Iceland after the suspension of Adil Rami. Although he is relatively inexperienced at the top level, Umtiti's focus, calm, technical ability and pin-point passing as well as a sense of team spirit means he is widely expected to fit in at a top team. Bartomeu added: "He is with the French team, completely focused. When the competition is over, we'll make him come, pass the check-up and do all the required procedures to sign him up." The drum kit that contributed a cheerful backbeat to a version of the Beatles' "Love Me Do" will be auctioned off on Thursday in California by Nate D. Sanders Auctions, according to Reuters. Bidding for the kit will begin at $150,000. Beatles' Game-Changing 'Paperback Writer' at 50 "This is a piece of rock history," auction house manager Michael Kirk told Reuters. "There is only one drum kit that was there that day that this first track was laid down the track that launched the Beatles." Though the Fab Four used this Ludwig set to record "Love Me Do" with producer George Martin, Ringo Starr did not play on it that honor went to Andy White. The Beatles had already hired Starr, but they had not had the chance to audition him yet, so Martin's assistant, Ron Richards, asked White to handle the drums. Starr played tambourine. "Love Me Do" was the first single by the Beatles to hit No. 1 in the U.S. White also drummed on the "Love Me Do" B-Side, "P.S. I Love You." According to a statement from Nate D. Sanders Auctions, three different versions of "Love Me Do" were recorded at EMI in 1962. But the rendition with White scaled the charts in the U.S. In a 2012 interview with the BBC, he suggested that his contribution stood out. "From the drum sound I can tell that I was on ['Love Me Do'] because it was a vastly different sound to Ringo's drum set at that time," he noted. "Each drummer gets an individual sound, first of all by the way they tune the drums and then by the way they play the drums.'' Ringo later purchased his own Ludwig kit. Related Beatlemania was at its peak. It was 1966 the last year the Fab Four would tour and the group was so popular that it had to flee a mob after turning down an invite to perform for the first lady of the Philippines. That same year, the band defied a Ku Klux Klan threat and rocked Memphis, Tennessee. The Beatles had just recorded the rather complex Revolver, but as the Liverpudlians made their way through Asia and America that year, audiences still clung to the easy tunes on Help! and Rubber Soul. In the summer of 66, there were really two Beatles, says John Covach, professor of music at the University of Rochester. There were the Beatles that we know from Sgt. Peppers, the hippie Beatles, the ones that did music that was more interesting to college students and artsy types. And then there were the Beatles who appealed to pop-loving, screaming girls. As they straddled both identities, the Beatles arrived in one of the countries that has consistently, occasionally absurdly memorialized them ever since: Japan. Half a century ago, the Beatles were scheduled to play five shows in Tokyo. Like almost everywhere else the four performed, they encountered crotchety old people and young people practically jumping out of their skin with joy. In this case, the annoyed elders were postwar right-wingers, frustrated that the band was set to play the Nippon Budokan, an arena in the Imperial Palaces backyard designed for staging traditional martial arts. Built just two years before, as part of the 1964 Summer Olympics, the Budokan emerged when the wartime ashes of humiliation and destruction were still fresh in everyones mind. Its creators never dreamed it would be used to host the frivolities of a mop-top-shaking boy band from England. Which explains why thenPrime Minister Eisaku Sato, a man who came into adulthood during the war and was the state minister in charge of the Olympics, found it fruitful to bash the foreign group. Sato, who would later win the Nobel Peace Prize for his work on disarmament and become a symbol of Japans confused postwar relationship with the rest of the world, was not confused about the Beatles: They were inappropriate for the Budokan, he declared. I mean, seriously, Covach explains, it was like this holy venue, and here come these teen Beatles. Story continues the Beatles' 1966 press conference in Japan This was not Manila, though, where a tiff with the political leadership would send the Beatles scurrying to the airport without state protection. In Japan, 35,000 cops lined the streets, according to local reports from the time. The result of all the security was best witnessed at the concerts: People yelled and cried, Covach says, but the relative quiet stood out compared with everywhere else the Beatles had performed, where fans couldnt hear entire stretches of the show over their own screaming. In Tokyo, security made it feel like a school assembly, Covach says, with guards telling people to return to their seats if they got too lively. It was so tame, in fact, that Covach compares it to a 1964 Beatles concert in Paris, where the audience appeared in tuxedos as if they were attending the opera. The Beatles - CONCERT AT BUDOKAN (6-30-1966 evening show) from Lucinha Zanetti on Vimeo. Beatles in Japan 1966 Today, people might not get weepy over the Beatles, but that doesnt mean their first jaunt into the country is forgotten, says Akitsugu Kawamoto, music professor at Ferris University in Yokohama. It was just the beginning of the love affair between the bands members and Japan. In 66, Lennon had yet to meet Yoko; McCartney hadnt been arrested for possessing marijuana that would come 14 years later, when he played Japan with Wings. These days, you can still find Beatles cover bands playing Tokyos Cavern Club, a joint named for the Liverpool bar where the boys got their start. Gettyimages 56171537 The Fab Four at the Budokan. Source: Getty And you can still hear strains of the band in modern pop music, Kawamoto says. Before the Beatles, Japanese groups were mimicking Elvis and Pat Boone. Post-Beatles, the cultural affinity for precise imitation turned toward the groups more complex melodies. Kawamoto traces the Beatles sound through the Group Sounds era of the 60s and the arrival of J-pop in the 1990s, a genre that continues to dominate. (He suggests taking a listen to the four-man J-pop band Mr. Children for a whiff of the Fab Four.) Thats not the only way the Beatles summer jaunt through Japan 50 years ago continues to echo today. For one, Sato was current Prime Minister Shinzo Abes great-uncle. And the Olympics are once again fresh in the mind of the Japanese as they gear up to host the 2020 Games. The debates about the Beatles playing at the Budokan, where everyone from Bob Dylan to Eric Clapton to Beyonce have since played, are long forgotten. On a sunny summer day, the crowds gather outside, giggling and quaking in anticipation of another group: Morning Musume 16, a gaggle of J-pop girls, is about to hit the stage. J-Pop Band Mr. Children Sings 'Here Comes the Sun' Related Articles Norwegian beauty vlogger Gilan Sharafani just caught a ton of flack on social media for a tutorial she posted on how to get heatless curls. In the video, the beauty guru demonstrates what is commonly known as a Bantu knot-out, in which you twist your hair into a series of small buns before taking them out to reveal oodles of curls. It is a method often used by black women to add curl definition, and Bantu knots are a hairstyle that dates centuries back to the Zulu tribes, who rocked them long before Sharafani filmed the controversial video. Commenters quickly took Sharafani to task for not doing her research, as well as failing to call the hairdo by its actual name. Many also discussed the trend in mainstream culture where hairstyles commonly and historically worn by black women are considered unattractive (or, in this case, nonexistent) until non-black women decide to try them out. As one commenter @maneobjective pointed out, the problem isnt that Sharafani did a Bantu knot-out shes free to experiment with her hair as she pleases. The issue is that this hairstyle already has a name that most people know, and it should be called what it is. This is about black women being absolutely fed up and tired of having their cultures, styles, and body parts mimicked and appropriated, a commenter explained. We all learned in school that when you use someone elses words or ideas, you cite your sources. Why is that concept so hard to apply here? Why is everyone so against us asking her or anyone else to cite their sources? Why is there so much resistance? Whether she did the style right or not, whether it looks terrible or not, is of no consequence to me. Just cite your sources, dont play coy/passive aggressive, take your video, and move on. A similar issue arose when the boxer braids trend took over the Internet a few months ago. The style, which has been worn by women for centuries, is commonly referred to as cornrows or Dutch braids, depending on who you ask and how you style it. And Refinery 29s Short Cuts recently got some pushback over its rope braid video tutorial, which shows a simple two-strand twist another hairstyle worn mostly by black women. Story continues Rebranding a traditional hairstyle as something fresh and new without any regard for the people who have been using it, or doing even minimal research to see if it already has a name and a history, is quite a common thing in the fashion and beauty world. While we cant all be supersleuths, if people can do research to find out where the LBD originated, surely they can find out what a two-strand twist is before putting out a tutorial. Why do these styles need to be rebranded at all? A beautiful half-Bantu do. Photo (@Mizaniusa) Sharafani claimed she used the heatless curls title out of ignorance, once commenters called her out on it. For all of you commenting about what I [shall] call this style, I did not know that this was an African hairstyle TILL now! And I have never said that this is a new [technique discovered] by me! So if you want me to call it Bantu knots, then its Bantu knots. Sharafani still appeared to be missing the point its not called Bantu knots because of some random whim of black women its called Bantu knots because thats what they are. And maybe, just maybe, she should consider using the proper nomenclature for something if she wants to be considered a credible guru. Later, Sharafani relented, adding a note to the original video: After that, I shared this video on my Instagram, ppl started telling me that the [technique] I was using was from Africa - WHICH IS [called] Bantu knots. I [didnt know] that, till everyone [started] commenting about that. If knew from the start that this [technique] was African, I would for sure call it Bantu knots. So, Bantu knots is really one of the best [technique] to get curly hair with no heat! We keep seeing these missteps happening in the fashion and beauty world this publication included. But its high time we all educated one another. The fact of the matter is, in an age where information is so accessible and can be shared at the blink of an eye, cultures, as they have done for centuries, are going to mix, meld, mesh, and transform. And thats OK! But it is just as important to understand where these things come from, especially since we live in a society that has blatantly ripped off and mocked traditions from other cultures, only for them to be later adopted by the dominant society without giving any credit. If Sharafani genuinely didnt know she was doing a Bantu knot-out, those who do know should inform her in a constructive way. Also, if youre going to call yourself a beauty expert, its important to learn about beauty in all forms. If someone has a genuine interest in hair, why wouldnt she explore how people with different textures take care of their own and draw inspiration from that? A lapse in judgment and a failure to do research brought Sharafanis credibility into question. Yet, all of this could have been avoided if she were more diligent and curious as to where this hairstyle originated. Lets keep in touch! Follow Yahoo Beauty on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. By Susan Taylor TORONTO (Reuters) - De Beers Canada can flood the tunnels of its underground Snap Lake diamond mine in the Northwest Territories under a revised suspension plan approved by the region's land and water board. The company is weighing whether to sell, close, reopen, or continue suspension at the money-losing Arctic mine, which was shuttered last December due to poor market conditions. Waning Chinese demand and an industry credit crunch have been hurting the sector. Flooding the mine tunnels will cut costs to pump out water and reduce environmental risk, De Beers Canada said in its extended care and maintenance plan. The temporary closure, approved on an interim basis pending required updates, could run for three or more years, depending on market conditions. "The decision is helpful because it really helps us preserve ... a pretty significant resource in the ground," said De Beers Canada spokesman Tom Ormsby. Snap Lake, which has made no money since production began in 2008, produced 1.2 million carats in 2015 and was due to run until 2028. The operation, which had 595 employees and 200 contractors before the suspension, currently has some 75 staff for ongoing care and maintenance work. In its April application, De Beers Canada said it may investigate a remote water monitoring system, which would need no on-site staff. That would require separate approval, the board said in a decision posted on Wednesday. Last October, De Beers Canada said new Chief Executive Officer Kim Truter would move office headquarters to Calgary as part of a broader restructuring to cut costs as diamond demand and prices waned. De Beers Canada also operates the Victor diamond mine in Ontario, set to close in 2018 unless an expansion proceeds, and is building the Gahcho Kue diamond mine in the Northwest Territories with 49 percent owner Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. Gahcho Kue is expected to start production in the next few months with a projected annual output of 4.5 million carats. De Beers' first mine outside Africa, Snap Lake is 220 kilometers (137 miles) northeast of Yellowknife. De Beers is 85 percent owned by Anglo American and 15 percent by the government of Botswana. ($1 = 1.3003 Canadian dollars) (Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe) Beijing will reject any ruling by an international tribunal in a contentious case brought by the Philippines over the South China Sea, the foreign ministry said, as tensions mount over the disputed waters. The United Nations-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) said Wednesday it will rule on July 12 in a closely watched case challenging China's claims to much of the strategic waterway. Beijing has consistently rejected the tribunal's right to hear the case and has taken no part in the proceedings, mounting a diplomatic and propaganda drive to try to undermine its authority. "With regard to territorial issues and maritime delimitation disputes, China does not accept any means of third party dispute settlement or any solution imposed on China," foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said in a statement on its website. The tribunal was "established on the basis of illegal conduct and claims of the Philippines" and "has no jurisdiction over the relevant matters", he said. At a regular briefing on Thursday he added that by bringing the case to the arbitration court, the Philippines "disregards China's choice to resolving disputes in ways of its own choosing". The Philippines insisted both it and China were required to follow the tribunal's ruling. "Despite its non-appearance, China is and remains a party to the arbitration and is bound under international law by an award rendered by the tribunal," Manila's foreign ministry said in a statement. "The Philippines believes that the rule of law prescribes a just and peaceful means of resolving differences, which is why the Philippines will fully respect the tribunals award." Manila lodged the suit against Beijing in early 2013, saying that after 17 years of negotiations it had exhausted all political and diplomatic avenues to settle the dispute. Spanning more than three years, two hearings and nearly 4,000 pages of evidence, the arbitration case in The Hague is extremely complex. Story continues China claims most of the sea, even waters approaching neighbouring countries, based on a vaguely defined "nine-dash" Chinese map dating back to the 1940s. In recent years Beijing has rapidly built up reefs and outcrops into artificial islands with facilities capable of military use. As well as the Philippines, several other littoral states have competing claims, and the dispute has also embroiled the United States, which has defence treaties with several allies in the region. "I hereby once again emphasise that the Arbitral Tribunal has no jurisdiction over the case and the relevant subject matter, and that it should not have heard the case," Hong said in the statement, released late Wednesday. A member of the Libyan pro-government forces, backed by the locals, is seen with a weapon during street clashes with the Shura Council of Libyan Revolutionaries, an alliance of former anti-Gaddafi rebels who have joined forces with Islamist group Ansar al-Sharia, in Benghazi in this March 16, 2015 file photo. REUTERS/Esam Omran Al-Fetori/Files The militia members who came to the aid of American personnel during an attack on a US diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, in 2012 were allied with a leader whom the US helped force out of power, a new government report revealed. The Republican-led House Select Committee on Benghazi released its long-awaited report this week, and it contained new details from the September 11, 2012, attack that left four Americans dead, including Ambassador Christopher Stevens. One revelation is that the militia members who came to the rescue at the CIA Annex in Benghazi, where US personnel who fled after the diplomatic compound came under attack, were from a group called "Libyan Military Intelligence." The group comprised military officers loyal to Col. Moammar Gaddafi, the Libyan leader the US opposed. The House committee report, citing a member of "Team Tripoli," said of the US rescue team that had been deployed to Benghazi: "A key issue remained in that 'there was no security vehicle, no gun trucks that would help us get to the airport. And we determined we could probably not make it with the vehicles we had inside the compound.' At 6:16 a.m., a 30-vehicle motorcade arrived at the Annex to provide transport support by the Libyan Military Intelligence. "The forces that arrived at the Annex shortly after the mortar attacks were able to transport all State Department and CIA personnel safely to the airport. The forces, known as Libyan Military Intelligence, arrived with 50 heavily-armed security vehicles. Libyan Military Intelligence was not part of the Libyan government, nor affiliated with any of the militias the CIA or State Department had developed a relationship with during the prior 18 months since the Libyan revolution took place. Instead, Libya Military Intelligence whom the CIA did not even know existed until the night of the attacks were comprised of former military officers under the Qadhafi regime who had gone into hiding in fear of being assassinated, and wanted to keep their presence in Benghazi as quiet as possible so as to not attract attention from the militias in control of Benghazi." Story continues The "friendly" militia that was supposed to be protecting US personnel in Benghazi had reportedly fled. So many militias ran rampant in Benghazi that it was difficult to tell friend from foe and know which groups had a presence in the city. Stephen Walt, an international-affairs professor at Harvard University who writes about foreign policy, said that collecting good intelligence in these situations is difficult. He told Business Insider in an email: "This episode reminds us that violent regime change creates a state of anarchy where competing groups are all out for themselves, and outsiders rarely have adequate information about the relative strength of rival factions, the nature of their leaders, or how their political alignments may shift over time. "The point is not that the CIA or State had 'bad intelligence' prior to Benghazi; it is that outside governments rarely have good intelligence about what different groups will do once the old regime collapses." The Obama administration has often been criticized for its handling of the Benghazi attacks, but the House report contained no new evidence of wrongdoing on behalf of then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who played a central role in the response to the crisis. Administration officials blamed the attack on spontaneous protests over an online video, but further investigation revealed that it was likely the work of Al Qaeda-linked terrorists. NOW WATCH: New Trump attack ad shows Clinton laughing amid footage from the Benghazi attacks More From Business Insider By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) - California's insurance commissioner has ordered two Berkshire Hathaway Inc (BRKa.N) insurance units to stop selling some workers' compensation policies that he considers illegal. Commissioner Dave Jones on Wednesday issued a "cease and desist order" preventing Berkshire's Applied Underwriters Inc and California Insurance Co units from selling or renewing the policies in question in California. Jones had on June 20 found that the units evaded a state law meant to protect small businesses from unexpected workers' compensation costs, through the sale of a nontraditional policy whose terms and rates had not been reviewed by state officials. Wednesday's order extends that ruling to all similar policies that the Berkshire insurers sell in California. A hearing on the matter is to be held within 30 days. The case arose from the sale of a policy known as EquityComp to Shasta Linen Supply Inc of Sacramento, which Jones said subjected the family-owned employer of 63 people to hundreds of thousands of dollars of extra costs. Spencer Kook, a lawyer for the insurers, in a Thursday email said California Insurance is "disappointed and surprised" by Jones' order, disagrees with the validity of the June 20 ruling, and intends to pursue all legal remedies in response to both. Workers' compensation insurance typically covers lost wages and medical costs for employees injured on the job. Berkshire has said EquityComp carries a profit-sharing component and is meant for medium-sized employers. But the insurance commissioner said the policy can prove unexpectedly costly because of the higher risk of claims. EquityComp generates 80 percent of California Insurance's policy premiums, Jones has said. Berkshire Hathaway is run by Warren Buffett and based in Omaha, Nebraska. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Diane Craft) By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) - California's insurance commissioner has ordered two Berkshire Hathaway IncPhotos by Brandon Dill/Special to The Commercial Appeal
Southland Park manager Troy Keeping checks on the progress of the expanded gaming area Friday.
SHARE By Sydney Neely, sydney.neely@commercialappeal.com Arkansas State University Mid-South in West Memphis has received $100,000 from Southland Park Gaming and Racing to support the Jeremy M. Jacobs Hospitality Program. The donation is the fifth of 10 annual payments to support the hospitality program named after Jacobs., chairman of Delaware North Companies of Buffalo, New York, owner of the West Memphis gaming site. Ardent Studios founder John Fry sits among the studio's many gold and platinum records. The studio will be celebrating its 40th anniverary. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal) SHARE Some 18 months after the passing of Ardent founder John Fry the studio is undergoing some organizational changes led by new chairman Pat Scholes. By Bob Mehr of The Commercial Appeal In December 2014, Ardent Studios founder John Fry died. For 48 years, Fry was one of the rocks of Memphis music, a visionary who built a world-renowned studio, a sonic innovator and a local industry linchpin. More than anything, though, Fry was a mentor: to the legendary band Big Star, and to a generation of musicians and music professionals for whom he served as a guiding light, father figure and friend. His death left a profound hole one felt most acutely at Ardent. Filling Ardent's leadership vacuum on an interim basis were a pair of longtime employees, general manager Jody Stephens and controller Elizabeth Montgomery Brown. But as Ardent approaches its 50th anniversary this fall, there's a new if familiar face heading the operation. Pat Scholes' association with Ardent dates back to the late 1970s where he began as a studio intern. He took on a full-time role as Ardent's senior manager for technology from 1983 to 2000, and was heavily involved in the company's Christian music label. For the last 15 years, he's been out of the music business, working at AutoZone in its Information Technology management division, while remaining one of Ardent's minority ownership partners. "My role has morphed," says Scholes. "I worked full time at Ardent for two decades, and the last decade has been more as a co-owner and member of the board." At the end of 2015, a year after Fry's passing, the Ardent board which is comprised of three minority owners; Fry's widow Betty Fry is the majority owner elected Scholes chairman, with the idea that he'd return to overseeing the studio business more directly. "That's something I took on humbly," says Scholes, who continues to balance his Ardent responsibilities with his AutoZone career. "It was an honor to be asked." Since the start of the year, Scholes has "been around Ardent more," he says. "It continues to be a singularly unique place a lot of great people, a lot of great gear, and a lot of great history." He's spent the past six months on the job assessing the business and staffing as well. "Getting back into the music business, I've been reintroduced to the challenging headwinds facing the industry," says Scholes. Following some deeper organizational analysis he says "it became pretty clear our existing infrastructure was not the best for the current environment, so we've modified job descriptions, and roles, and there are some big changes." As part of a company-wise reorganization, twenty-nine year Ardent veteran Stephens one of the founding members of Big Star and the studio's public face will remain on in a revised executive role. "Jody is a rock star and very bright guy," says Scholes. "After [Fry] died, Jody served as a general manager, and now he's in a business development role. He has and continues to be tasked with developing business whether that's for the studio or some of the production and label type efforts we're pursuing." However, Scholes' plan means that 20-year Ardent employee Montgomery Brown and 10-year veteran, studio manager Dan Russo will be moving on later this month. "Those positions didn't go forward," says Scholes. "Instead, there is a new broadly constituted general manger title created by us the job will encompass publishing, artist relations, production deals, sales and studio booking as part of that." The person assuming this new role will be Ryan Wiley. A former Ardent production and engineering assistant, who worked closely with John Hampton, Wiley got his law degree from the University of Memphis and until recently was operating his own practice. Wiley formally took over the GM job last week; Russo and Brown will transition out of their roles on July 8. For a company built on a remarkable history of stability, such changes seem jarring. But Scholes says the company is trying to be responsive to the current business climate one which has become increasingly difficult for higher-end, bigger overhead studios like Ardent. Scholes notes that Fry's widow Betty has supported the moves. "She's not involved day-to-day, but she does have a profound involvement in caring for John's legacy, and being a resource and support for us," he says. "And she's given me her proxy." The changes are unlikely to affect Ardent's various offshoot business including its Christian and rock labels and distribution business in the short term. The Ardent rock label has current releases from Austin, Texas band the Greyhounds, and Stephens' new project Those Pretty Wrongs. Ardent distributed group Low Cut Connie is in the studio this week working on its new album. "And on the Christian side, we have Todd Agnew finishing a record, which we expected out later this year," says Scholes. "And we're looking at releasing new albums from new [Christian] artists." The business of Big Star and its catalog will continue under the supervision of Scholes, Stephens and Wiley. "Hardly a day goes by that a Big Star-related opportunity doesn't get discussed," says Scholes. "That's not to say there's suddenly going to be a bunch of Big Star releases tomorrow. There's a balance we have to strike; we have a bedrock of great history, but we're not trying to look back, as much as trying to build on that." Plans for marking Ardent's 50th anniversary are still developing, though several "give back" initiatives including offering 50 free days of recording to emerging artists in the Mid-South have begun. "As we roll out some of the new things we're planning on announcing for the business in the next couple months," says Scholes, "we'll probably tie a bow around celebrating the past, and celebrating the future, with an event in the fall. We're looking forward to the next 50 years." Nix Mastering Moves In somewhat related news, Memphis' L. Nix Mastering is moving out of the Bluff City. The famed record mastering service founded by Stax Records alumnus Larry Nix in 1975 and currently run by his son Kevin Nix was housed in the Ardent Studios complex for 40 years, before moving to the Select-O-Hits facility last summer. Later this month, Kevin Nix will move his family and the company from Memphis to Southern Alabama, re-establishing the business in the city of Foley. As Nix noted in a letter to his clients this week, "this move will in no way hinder our ability to work with anyone in the world with the same ease of communication, the same quick turnaround time we've always offered, and the same quality you've come to depend on." Nix points out that L. Nix's "clientele has become approximately 98-percent Internet based already. Over the last several years, I have made it my duty to teach clients how to send their mixes online, pay online, etc. The overall experience working online has been very positive, both for our clients, and us." L. Nix Mastering will officially reopen in Alabama on July 11. Kraftwerk Cancels Despite much early excitement for their proposed return to Memphis earlier this summer, it turns out Kraftwerk will not be coming to town after all. The pioneering German electronic music group was set to play Midtown's Minglewood Hall on Sept. 7. The show was part of a nine-date tour marking the group's most extensive U.S. jaunt in five decades. The surprise announcement of a Bluff City concert for Kraftwerk was spurred by a successful appearance last year in Nashville. Though no reason was given for the cancellation by California-based promoters Goldenvoice, it's likely that slower than expected ticket advance sales were the culprit. It's also possible that the 2015 Nashville date had actually exhausted the broader regional interest in a Memphis show. (The group is still set to play dates in Atlanta and New Orleans.) Kraftwerk ticket refunds are available at point of purchase. Special report: TVA has reduced emissions. So why does it lag on solar? By Katie Fretland of The Commercial Appeal A 32-year-old Memphis man was convicted Thursday in the fatal February 2014 shooting of two people in Frayser. Eddie Harris was convicted of the shooting of Aaron Moore, 48, and Robert Dale, 31, on Feb. 11, 2014 in the 3900 block of Brooksville. According to an affidavit, witnesses said Harris admitted to the killings and to taking drugs and money. Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Chris Craft sentenced Harris to life in prison for first-degree murder. SHARE June 30, 2016 - Evan Morrison, Bridge Builders Facilitation Specialist with BRIDGES, USA, tells the audience to give a round of applause to members of the Incarcerated Youth Speaking Out for Change during the Juvenile Justice Summit, hosted by the Memphis and Shelby County Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative, at The Gathering Place at Hickory Ridge Mall on Thursday. (Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal) By Katie Fretland of The Commercial Appeal James Bell, who works nationally to address racial disparities in juvenile justice, described incarceration as an addiction Thursday to an audience of more than 200 people in Hickory Hill. "We are addicted to incarceration as a primary instrument of social control," Bell said. "Not just for law violators but for misbehaviors in school." Speaking at a juvenile justice summit, "A Just Village: Our Children, Our Responsibility," at the Gathering Place inside Hickory Ridge Mall, Bell said society has an obligation to enhance nurturing. "Nurturing and how do we provide support as a society so the young people are able to reach their maximum potential regardless of skin color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, income or ability," he said. Jail is becoming the largest mental health facility in every county, he said. "That's what an addiction looks like and that's what you pay for," he said. Bell, the founder and executive director of the W. Haywood Burns Institute in San Francisco, quoted Milwaukee Police Chief Edward Flynn who said "our most challenged neighborhoods are populated by folks who are suffering from generations of poverty and unemployment." "If you draw an ellipse over our highest-crime neighborhoods, you're going to find that those capture the highest percentage of abandoned and foreclosed houses, the highest poverty rates, the highest unemployment rates and so on," Flynn told PBS Newshour. "Public space violent crime is one of the many symptoms of endemic intergenerational poverty. And the problem is that, for the last 30 to 40 years, we have disinvested in mental health services, disinvested in social services, disinvested in virtually everything that folks in these conditions need, except the police. Eighty percent of our work, even in our highest-crime neighborhoods, is fundamentally social work." In 2012, the U.S. Department of Justice entered into an agreement with the Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County to address conditions of confinement at the court's detention center and the court's administration of justice. The Department of Justice found failures of the court to "provide constitutionally required due process to all children appearing for delinquency proceedings, that the court's administration of juvenile justice discriminates against African-American children, and that its detention center violates the substantive due process rights of detained youth by not providing them with reasonably safe conditions of confinement." In April, a representative of the Department of Justice cited continuing inequalities in the Shelby County juvenile justice system. Special Litigation Counsel Winsome Gayle said there has been little movement in addressing overrepresentation of black youth. "Locking (youth) up is not the answer," Pamela Skelton, chief administrative officer of the Juvenile Court of Memphis and Shelby County, told the crowd Thursday to applause. Skelton emphasized the importance of alternatives to detention for youth. "We know there are some young men and women that there probably are no alternatives (to detention)," Skelton said. "But for the most part, there are." By Yolanda Jones of The Commercial Appeal A former Memphis police officer has been arrested a fifth time, charged with violating his probation in connection with stalking his former girlfriend. Joshua Barnes, 28, was arrested Wednesday, just 6 days after he was released for allegedly stalking his ex-girlfriend last week. Last Friday, a man told Memphis police he was eating on Madison Avenue June 14 when he saw Barnes taking pictures of his car. Barnes ex-girlfriend arrived later and told police she believes Barnes is stalking the man because hes seen her riding with the victim, according to an affidavit. Barnes was no longer on the scene when officers arrived. However, police were able to verify he was at the location because Barnes wears a GPS ankle bracelet monitored by the Southaven Police Department. Data from the monitor showed Barnes was in the area of the mans home and, later, at the same location on Madison, according to an affidavit. He was arrested. He posted a $50,000 bond and was released. His arrest is a violation of several conditions of his two-year probation. Barnes was placed on probation in May stemming from his arrest in February for allegedly stalking his former girlfriend in Memphis. Since last year, Barnes has been arrested and charged with harassing and stalking his former girlfriend more than half a dozen times outside her job, her home and even following her to bars when she went out socially. Before last weeks arrest, the last time Barnes was arrested in connection to the case was in April when Southaven police issued a warrant against him for stalking his former girlfriend. On April 28, DeSoto County Chancery Court Judge Malenda Meacham granted his former girlfriend a protection order against Barnes. Barnes name was also added to Mississippis Protection Order Registry. The protection order states that Barnes is not allowed to contact the woman, her family or friends by electronic communication, phone or any other communication. He also has to stay 1,500 yards from the woman. He could face up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine for violating the order. He will be in court Friday for the violation probation charge brought against him. He then will be back in court on Aug. 16 for the stalking and violation of protection order charges. He remains in the Shelby County Jail on a $100,000 bond. Barnes resigned from the Memphis Police Department in January after six years on the force. SHARE Memphis police officer Joshua Barnes, 28, has been charged with aggravated stalking and violating a protection order. By Yolanda Jones of The Commercial Appeal A former Memphis police officer has been arrested a fifth time, charged with violating his probation in connection with stalking his former girlfriend. Joshua Barnes, 28, was arrested Wednesday, just 6 days after he was released for allegedly stalking his ex-girlfriend last week. Last Friday, a man told Memphis police he was eating on Madison Avenue on June 14 when he saw Barnes taking pictures of his car. Barnes' ex-girlfriend arrived later and told police she believes Barnes is stalking the man because he's seen her riding with the victim, according to an affidavit. Barnes was no longer on the scene when officers arrived. However, police were able to verify he was at the location because Barnes wears a GPS ankle bracelet monitored by the Southaven Police Department. Data from the monitor showed Barnes was in the area of the man's home and, later, at the same location on Madison, according to an affidavit. He was arrested. He posted a $50,000 bond and was released. His arrest is a violation of several conditions of his two-year probation. Barnes was placed on probation in May stemming from his arrest in February for allegedly stalking his former girlfriend in Memphis. Since last year, Barnes has been arrested and charged with harassing and stalking his former girlfriend more than half a dozen times outside her job, her home and even following her to bars when she went out socially. Police said the woman also found a tracking device placed by Barnes on her car. Before last week's arrest, the last time Barnes was arrested in connection to the case was in April when Southaven police issued a warrant against him for stalking his former girlfriend. On April 28, DeSoto County Chancery Court Judge Malenda Meacham granted his former girlfriend a protection order against Barnes. Barnes' name was also added to Mississippi's Protection Order Registry. The protection order states that Barnes is not allowed to contact the woman, her family or friends by electronic communication, phone or any other communication. He also has to stay 1,500 yards from the woman. He could face up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine for violating the order. He will be in court Friday for the violation probation charge brought against him. He then will be back in court on Aug. 16 for the stalking and violation of protection order charges. He remains in the Shelby County Jail on a $100,000 bond. Barnes resigned from the Memphis Police Department in January after six years on the force. SHARE By Yolanda Jones of The Commercial Appeal Anthony Boyd Jr. was carjacked on his 18th birthday. Robbers took his 2000 Nissan Xterra, a high school graduation gift that the Trezevant High grad had received days earlier from his father. A new state law that goes into effect Friday attempts to provide more justice for victims of carjackings like Boyd. Anyone convicted of carjacking will be required to serve at least 75 percent of their sentence before being released on parole. Before the new July 1 law, the minimum jail time for carjackers was 30 percent of the sentence. Because those arrested for allegedly stealing Boyd's SUV are juveniles, it is unknown what impact the new law will have on his case, but his aunt Alfreda Boyd welcomes the stiffer penalties for carjacking. She said the incident was a traumatic ordeal. Boyd had driven his aunt to a corner store in Frayser on May 23 when a teenage boy walked up to the car and asked to use Boyd's cellphone. "When my nephew said, no, this young guy, jumped in the back seat," recalled Alfreda Boyd. "I thought he knew my nephew until he put a gun to his head and told us to get out the F out the car. "The young guy took off. Police said he picked up two other little guys. When the cops saw the car, they chased them and the boys crashed and wrecked," Alfreda Boyd said. "I was glad they arrested them because that carjacking scared me to death. It was horrible and no one should have to go through it." State Sen. Brian Kelsey, R-Germantown co-sponsored the new law after he said he was concerned about a spate of carjackings in Memphis and other areas of Tennessee last year. There have been 39 carjackings in the city in the last three months, Memphis police incident reports show. In 2014, police investigated 82 carjackings and 80 in 2013. Memphis police are still reviewing a public records request by The Commercial Appeal on Wednesday inquiring about the number of carjackings last year. "I think this will help keep Tennesseans safer on our roadways," Kelsey said about the law. "It was horrible that carjackers were holding drivers at gunpoint and having to serve only 30 percent of their sentence. I am glad that they will be serving 75 percent of their sentence." He added, "Tennesseans should not have to worry about being held at gunpoint while driving in our communities. This new law will keep Tennesseans safer by ensuring that carjackers serve more time behind bars." Carjacking is defined in Tennessee law as the "intentional or knowing taking of a motor vehicle from the possession of another by use of a deadly weapon or force or intimidation." It has been a Class B felony in the state's criminal code since its legislative enactment as a separate crime in 1995. Class B felonies are punishable by 8 to 30 years in prison, depending on the criminal record of the offender and other factors, and fines of up to $25,000. The standard sentence for an offender with no prior felony convictions is 8 to 12 years. Kelsey said Tennessee Department of Correction statistics indicate the average carjacking convict serves less than 5 years behind bars. Alfreda Boyd said she is glad the penalty for carjackings is increasing. "I hate that someone's child has to go to jail, but they should think about that before committing these crimes," she said. "Me and my nephew have not fully recovered from our carjacking. I still can't go to the store alone." SHARE Jim Hood Tate Reeves By Jeff Amy, Associated Press JACKSON, Miss. The closing weeks of June have brought the first previews of what could be Mississippi's 2019 race for governor Jim Hood versus Tate Reeves. At this time last year, Phil Bryant was cruising toward re-election, while truck driver Robert Gray was still six weeks from shocking the world by winning the Democratic primary without even voting for himself. Bryant, of course, demolished Gray in the general election. So maybe it seems too soon to be talking about 2019. But word began to trickle out following the Democrats' annual Jefferson-Jackson-Hamer dinner in May that the attorney general, the last heavyweight Democratic politician in Mississippi, was finally going to take a shot at the governor's mansion. And Hood's actions since then wading into the midst of the state's budget difficulties bear that out. Talking to reporters last week, Hood expressed opposition to corporate tax cuts and called for more spending on roads and bridges, subjects pretty far afield from the usual public utterances of the Chickasaw County prosecutor. Reeves' calling card, since winning election as state treasurer before turning 30, has been skill as a money manager. The current budget problems cut against that strength. Bolstered by a recovery in state revenues following the 2009 recession, Republican leaders have often boasted that they had stopped spending one-time money. But the budget that ends Thursday has been pasted together using lawsuit settlements that Hood won and state savings, and even then will likely end tens of millions short. Then lawmakers tried to sweep $187 million that had been in special accounts into the general budget for the 2017 year, which begins July 1. But Hood issued legal opinions that say $72 million of that money is legally classified as trust funds, meaning an agency is just holding it for someone else. Hood said lawmakers could come back and amend the individual trust fund laws to legally take the money, but barring such a move, he says they can't lay hands on it. "If they go on and sweep it, we may have to go in and challenge that authority," Hood said, obliquely threatening a lawsuit. The overall budget gap is wider than $72 million. There's also a $56 million miscalculation adding to the 2017 shortfall, Medicaid and some other mandatory expenses are underfunded, and it's unclear how the messy end to 2016's budget might ripple into 2017. Lawmakers could easily be looking at $250 million deficit in 2017 if revenue collections don't improve or spending isn't cut. Hood's blaming the gap on $350 million in corporate tax relief given by lawmakers from 2012 to 2015, saying lawmakers grabbed the special fund money to cover up what they'd done. Reeves doubled down on tax cuts, pushing a $415 million, multiyear tax reduction through the Legislature that includes eliminating Mississippi's $260-million-a-year corporate franchise tax. When someone else challenges Reeves, he tends to strike back, both verbally and in legislation. He seemed to recognize Hood as a threat last week, when he hurled the biggest insult a Mississippi Republican could hurl at a Democrat linking him to President Barack Obama. Reeves also accused Hood of issuing a self-serving legal opinion to hold onto trust fund money controlled by his office. "Obama's attorney general in Mississippi takes the same approach that Obama's attorney general in Washington takes: Ignore the law if it doesn't meet your political views," Reeves said in a statement. "The attorney general wants to double dip his spending, ignores the need for taxpayers' accountability and transparency and has instructed bureaucrats to ignore the law." Next stop, speeches at the Neshoba County Fair. It will be hot. Thomas Busler/The Commercial Appeal files Brock Peters (left), co-founder and board chairman of The Dance Theatre of Harlem, was guest of honor on June 30, 1976, at a reception given by the board of directors of Ballet South. Shown with Peters, around the pool at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Jalenak Jr., are Ballet south dancer Janet Luciano (second left), board member Mrs. Jerry Hanover, and Larry Shaw, president of the Shaw Group of Memphis. Peters is also an actor and recording artist. He was scheduled to speak at the NAACP convention here the following day. SHARE June 30 25 years ago: 1991 To its dean, the College of Arts and Sciences is the "veins and arteries" of Memphis State University the "fair-haired darling" of the school. Nearly half of all credit hours taught at MSU are offered in Arts and Sciences. It has more departments than any of the university's four other colleges and covers the widest range of academic subjects from anthropology to mathematics. Some of the 15 departments have earned national acclaim that has raised the university's overall reputation, but most have not. For example, eight of the 15 offer no doctoral program one key to attracting research professionals. Those professionals in turn attract research dollars, which in turn will extract additional state funds under Tennessee's funding formula. 50 years ago: 1966 Construction will start in 30 days on Arlington's $70,000 public library, Mayor C.W. "Wink" Bond said yesterday. The library will be in the 11000 block of Walker Avenue, with enough space left between it and the new Arlington Post Office to serve as the site for the new city hall Arlington hopes to build, Mayor Bond said. Arlington paid for the library site. The county Court has appropriated funds for the building. 75 years ago: 1941 Cards explaining the purpose of the parking meter and asking that Memphians give the new traffic device a "full and impartial trial" will be distributed downtown by police today. 100 years ago: 1916 Mrs. Anne Dickson Hyatt will present her pupils in a final piano recital tonight at Wirtzmann Concert Hall. The program will feature Mrs. Walter Wynne Yates, Mr. Howard Roderick and Miss Theresa Bright. 125 years ago: 1891 Saturday will be the Fourth of July. A number of dove shooting and fishing parties and barbecues have been organized, and the town man will hie him to the leafy coverts and the meadows green. Markus Schreiber/Associated Press Mourners in Berlin illuminated The Brandenburg Gate with candles and Turkey's national flag in memory of the 42 people killed in Tuesday's suicide attack by three bombers believed to be members of the Islamic State. SHARE Emrah Gurel / Assocaited Press Passengers embrace each other as they wait with other evacuees outside Istanbul's Ataturk Airport early Wednesday. One of them had a wounded hand that was bandaged. By Erin Cunningham, Washington Post News Analysis ISTANBUL A bloody assault by three suicide bombers on Istanbul's Ataturk Airport has set the stage for a more violent conflict between Turkey and the Islamic State, a development that would deepen Turkish involvement in the Syrian war. There has been no claim of responsibility for Tuesday's carnage, but Turkish officials blamed the Sunni extremists for the attack, which killed 41 people and injured at least 239. It bore many hallmarks of previous IS attacks. The raid marked the fifth bombing attack in Istanbul this year, and struck the country's most important transportation hub. Kurdish militants have also recently attacked targets in Istanbul. On Wednesday, a senior Turkish official gave a timeline of the attack: First, a militant detonated explosives in the arrivals area on the ground floor of the international terminal. A second attacker exploded minutes later in the departures area upstairs, the official said. Finally, a third bomber detonated in the parking area amid the chaos and as people fled to escape the attacks inside. It was unclear at what point security forces exchanged gunfire with the attackers, according to the official's timeline. But witnesses on Wednesday spoke of scenes of panic, fear, and wounded fellow travelers. The assault on one of the world's busiest airports and hub of Turkey's lucrative tourism industry threatened to propel the country into a wider war with the Islamic State. "If the Islamic State is indeed behind this attack, this would be a declaration of war," said Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish Research Program at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. "This attack is different: the scope, impact and deaths of dozens in the heart of the country's economic capital." "It will have widespread ramifications," he said. And Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has depicted himself as a strong, conservative leader, "cannot afford to let this go." Turkey has taken steps to battle the Islamic State, which grew strong amid the bloody civil war in neighboring Syria. But critics say Turkey has been reluctant to aggressively take the fight to the extremists. For years, Turkish security forces turned a blind eye to the militants that slipped across the border, where mostly Islamist rebels have been battling forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Turkey wanted the Syrian leader to step down, and also saw the Sunni rebels as a bulwark against Syria's own autonomy-seeking Kurds. Turkey's ethnic Kurdish population has long sought greater independence from the Turkish state. And the rise of a Kurdish enclave in northern Syria worries nationalist Turks who fear it will inspire the Kurds in Turkey. The jihadists gathering on the Turkish-Syrian border, many of whom joined the Islamic State, used Turkey as a crucial route for weapons, recruits and supplies. But lax enforcement along the frontier allowed the militants to develop sprawling networks inside Turkey, even as they grabbed land across Syria and Iraq. And when Turkey ended its detente with the jihadists by joined the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State and opened its Incirlik Air Base to U.S. aircraft, the networks were tapped for the new battle with Turkey. Now, the two sides are edging toward full-fledged conflict, analysts say. "They went from a Cold War, to a limited war, and are now moving towards full-scale war" Cagaptay said. SHARE By Jennifer Pignolet of The Commercial Appeal Memphis charter schools could have a much easier time securing or expanding building facilities thanks to a new initiative announced this week from the Walton Family Foundation. The $250 million Building Equity Initiative, from the foundation run by the heirs of Walmart founder Sam Walton, will funnel money to charter schools in 17 cities, including Memphis, through low-interest loans. The foundation's K-12 Education Program director Marc Sternberg announced the initiative during the National Charter School Conference in Nashville on Wednesday. Tennessee Charter School Center CEO Maya Bugg said the funds could be "a really big deal for Memphis." "This is supposed to really open up resources and kind of take that burden off of the schools so that they can really focus in on what we need them to focus on, which is educating students, serving the families and communities and making sure they're getting a quality education," Bugg said. For many charter startups or even seasoned, successful ones, securing quality facilities and later expanding them can be a prohibitive challenge, she said. New organizations in particular lack the funds or the credit to secure a loan without high interest. If a high-quality operator wants to expand to offer seats to more children, the low-interest loan from the foundation could allow them to take on that project. The foundation's website states the loans will "enable at least 250,000 additional students to enroll in high-quality charter schools by 2027." But Bugg said Memphis shouldn't expect to see a boom of charter school expansions just because facilities funding is available. "I don't imagine this is all of the sudden going to take our 64 public charter schools and double the number of schools," she said, citing the process each charter must go through to be approved for opening or growth by the local school district. "That's not the intent, I don't believe, of the initiative." The funding will be disbursed through nonprofits that apply on the charter operators' behalf, according to the foundation. As a result, the money is not being divided up ahead of time among the 17 cities. Other cities eligible for funds include Little Rock, Atlanta and New Orleans. May 16, 2016 - Shelby County School Board member Stephanie Love listens to discussion from board member Kevin Woods, left, during the school board meeting. (Nikki Boertman/The Commercial Appeal) SHARE By Jennifer Pignolet of The Commercial Appeal The Shelby County Schools Board of Education passed a balanced budget Thursday afternoon, with hours to spare before the start of fiscal year 2017. The vote for the $959 million general fund budget $1.3 billion in total including all funds was 7-0 with board members Kevin Woods and Billy Orgel absent for the special meeting. The budget includes $13 million in teacher raises. It also uses $3.5 million from the district's savings to balance the general fund, fulfilling a promise Superintendent Dorsey Hopson said the district made to the County Commission in return for additional funds. The county on Wednesday approved an extra $28.2 million over last year's financial plan earmarked for education, with $22 million allocated to Shelby County Schools, the state-run Achievement School District and charter schools under SCS. The remainder will be distributed among the six municipal school districts. "I think this is clearly the highest investment that the county has made in education in maybe forever," Hopson said. "Certainly a long time." The board began the budget process with a gap of $86 million. The gap was whittled to about $27 million with cuts, including 181 positions in the district's central office. The district said in May, however, that only 61 of those positions were filled. Other cuts include elementary-level world language classes in schools without a language focus, departmental expenses like travel and materials, and requiring employees to pay more out-of-pocket for benefits. At least 10 plant manager positions were also eliminated. At that point, the district and board launched a campaign to lobby the county for the additional funds. "As a parent, I've never seen this much commitment to our children," board member Stephanie Love said before the vote Thursday. Chief Financial Officer Lin Johnson said the closure of under-enrolled Carver and Northside high schools netted the district higher-than-anticipated savings of about $2.3 million. Johnson said he also worked with county officials to identify more accurate estimates for sales tax revenues and unemployment expenses that brought the budget gap down to the $3.5 million that was covered by the fund balance. The teacher raises 3 percent for all teachers who earned at least a 3 out of 5 on evaluations were originally estimated to cost $10.8 million. Johnson said updated estimates put the cost at $13 million. Hopson said the closures of Carver and Northside enabled him to add 12 guidance counselor positions and a handful of reading and math intervention positions back into the budget. The school district will also continue to fund Hope Academy, an educational program that operates in the juvenile justice system. Board chairwoman Teresa Jones, a former public defender, made saving Hope Academy funding one of her top priorities. Jones noted that even though she voted against the closure of Northside and Carver, "knowing that the money is going back for children who are incarcerated juveniles is really something I'm proud of the superintendent for making that commitment." Board member Shante Avant also praised the community support, from principals, teachers and parents who showed up to meetings to the county commissioners who voted for the extra funding. "Not since the (Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools) merger do I think that we've had a moment of really solid community activism around what is best for kids," she said. SHARE By Jennifer Rubin The Washington Post reports on the horrific bombing in Turkey that killed at least 41 and injured more than 200: "There has been no claim of responsibility. But Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said the government believed the Islamic State was behind the assault at the international arrivals terminal of Istanbul's Ataturk Airport. "Analysts also said the attack bore the hallmarks of an Islamic State operation, including the use of multiple suicide bombers and an attack on a major transportation hub serving international passengers." This follows attacks in Turkey last October (killing 106) and July (killing 33). Former ambassador to Turkey Eric Edelman explains that the Turkish government is pointing the finger at the Islamic State although Kurdish extremists cannot be ruled out. "If it does turn out to be ISIL, then Turkey's policy since 2011 of assisting Jabhat al Nusra and other Islamists while largely turning a blind eye to ISIL will be seen by many Turks as a significant factor leading to the bombings," he says. "In the past year the AK government has begun to move more aggressively against ISIL, but I am afraid they are slamming the barn door after the horse is gone since there are reportedly ISIL cells all over the country." Turkey, like France, is a NATO country, and yet the Obama administration seems no more inclined to reassess our strategy now than it did after the Paris attack. Edelman recommends a shift in approach. "I have long advocated that a more honest dialogue with Turkey is necessary one that recognizes their interest in seeing the Assad regime go and protecting refugees in Syria before they cross into Turkey, which is carrying a very heavy refugee burden, but that then allows us to frankly address the government's blind spots on Islamist terrorism and the consequences of its increasing domestic authoritarianism namely that it is bringing about the very developments in Kurdish nationalism that it professes to fear." Turkey is a difficult problem to address, one that would challenge any president. But the thought of Donald Trump as President Obama's successor is petrifying. His new communications hire, Jason Miller (one of the few on Sen. Ted Cruz's team to sell his soul to Trump, but not before deleting his blistering tweets criticizing Trump during the campaign), put out a vapid statement on the attack: "The terrorist threat has never been greater. Our enemies are brutal and ruthless and will do anything to murder those who do not bend to their will. We must take steps now to protect America from terrorists, and do everything in our power to improve our security to keep America safe." What might those steps be? Of course, Trump offers nothing. Without a teleprompter, Trump sounded even worse, like an overwhelmed fifth-grader. "Many many people killed, many many people injured," Trump said at a stop in Ohio. "Folks, there is something going on that is really really bad. It's bad, and we had better get smart, and we better get tough, or we are not going to have much of a country left. It's bad." This man wants to be commander in chief. Feel safer? Me neither. Apparently Trump still has no adviser who can make him sound remotely informed on topics of grave consequence. He has not bothered to learn much of anything since starting his campaign more than a year ago. His next interviewer should press him on his "views" on Turkey. What should be our relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan? Should we be concerned about the Turkey-Russia relationship? Moreover, the attack perfectly illustrates the monstrous stupidity of Trump's Muslim ban (or partial Muslim ban, or whatever he wants to call it). His ban would apply to Turkey's entire government, its business leaders, its military officials everyone. At a time that Turkey is pleading for a unified response from the West, Trump is saying, in effect, "You're all a threat. Stay out of America." This is a dream come true for the Islamist terrorists who want to paint the West as hostile to all Muslims and to convince non-jihadist Muslims that they've been abandoned by the West. It's also a gift to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who would be thrilled to tell Turkey it has been abandoned by the West and has no choice but to look to Moscow for "protection" (like the mob offers "protection" to business owners). In no universe is Trump a fit commander in chief or preferable to Hillary Clinton on matters on national security. He's a menace to the United States and a fool who would play into the hands of our enemies. Jennifer Rubin writes the Right Turn blog for the Washington Post. Facebook can resume tracking Belgians online even if they don't have an account with the social network, an appeals court has ruled. The Brussels Court of First Instance had previously ordered Facebook to stop placing its "datr" cookie in Internet users' browsers unless they were Facebook members. It ordered the company to pay a fine of 250,000 per day until it complied with this interim ruling. But on Wednesday the appeals court overturned the cookie ban and the fine on the grounds that such interim orders can only be made in urgent cases. In this case, Belgium's privacy commission waited until 2015 to forbid something Facebook began doing in 2012, suggesting it hadn't acted with urgency. The appeals court also ruled that Facebook Ireland and its U.S. parent are outside the jurisdiction of Belgian courts, and that only Facebook Belgium was answerable to Belgian privacy law. Facebook Ireland manages Facebook's relationships with all its users outside North America. The Commission is considering whether to appeal Wednesday's rulings by referring them to the Court of Cassation, Belgium's court of final appeal. This is not the first time Belgian courts have failed to recognize that they have jurisdiction over foreign Internet companies, said Commission chairman Willem Debeuckelaere. In an affair involving Yahoo, the Court of Cassation twice overturned decisions by the appeals court that it had no jurisdiction, he said, so naturally the Commission is considering whether to lodge an appeal. "Today's decision signifies that Belgian courts can't protect the private lives of citizens protection from foreign actors. Thus, the citizen is exposed to massive violations of their right to privacy," he said. The Facebook case began a year ago, but so far, the courts have heard only preliminary motions. The Commission expects the Brussels Court of First Instance to begin tackling the substantive issues of its original complaint next year, it said Wednesday. A Facebook spokeswoman said the company was pleased with the court's decision, although it had not yet received a copy of it. "We look forward to bringing all our services back online for people in Belgium," she said. Rather than allow unfettered access to its site and services without use of the datr cookie, the company had chosen to block non-account-holders from viewing public pages on its site. With the return of the cookie, those pages will once again become visible to Belgians. Just over a year ago, two people who had been turned down after applying for jobs at Google filed a lawsuit against the company. They claimed they were rejected because of their age. Both were over 40. A federal court in San Jose is now being asked to decide whether many others who sought jobs at Google and were also rejected can join this case. On Wednesday, a motion for conditional certification of collective action status was filed. This motion, similar to a class action, seeks to include "all individuals who interviewed in-person for any software engineer, site reliability engineer, or systems engineer position with Google in the United States during the time period from August 13, 2010 through the present; were age 40 or older at the time of the interview; and were refused employment by Google." A large number of people may be eligible. Google reportedly gets more than 2 million job applications a year, but it isn't known how many applicants receive in-person interviews. The court is being asked to make this an "opt-in" case -- meaning potential parties must decide whether to join this action. The plaintiff's motion, if it succeeds, will require Google to provide the names and contact information of every applicant over age 40 who interviewed in-person for a job in one of the three engineering areas. The affected individuals will then be contacted. A decision by the court on this motion is months away. Cheryl Fillekes, a programmer and one of two parties in this case, is pressing forward with this collective-action claim. She is represented by Washington attorney Daniel Low. Fillekes, who earned a Ph.D. in geophysics from the University of Chicago and who also undertook postdoctoral work at Harvard, said she was invited for in-person interviews on four different occasions and was rejected each time. The lawsuit alleges Google "engaged in a systematic pattern" of discrimination against people over the age of 40. It cited data from Payscale that put the median age of Google's workforce at 29, with a margin of error of 4%. It says the median age for computer programmers in the U.S. is 43. The other party to this case, Robert Heath, a software engineer, was rejected after a technical telephone interview. His attorney, Dow Patten in San Francisco, said they are pursuing the age discrimination claim and will seek to join Fillekes' conditional certification of collective action. That may broaden the case to include people who were rejected after telephone interviews. A trial is scheduled for May 2017. A Google spokesman said the company doesn't comment on pending litigation. The motion by Fillekes identifies several other Google job applicants, but only by their initials. A summary of their experiences with Google is described in the motion. One woman seeking a job at Google said an "interviewer expressed concern about a cultural fit, noting that she might not be up for the 'lifestyle.'" According to the court document, this unidentified woman assured the interviewer "that she was willing to work long hours," but "the interviewer replied that he was still worried that she was not Googley enough." A database described by some as a "terrorism blacklist" has fallen into the hands of a white-hat hacker who may decide to make it accessible to the public online. The database, called World-Check, belongs to Thomson Reuters and is used by banks, governments and intelligence agencies to screen people for criminal ties and links to terrorism. Security researcher Chris Vickery claims to have obtained a 2014 copy of the database. He announced the details on Tuesday in a post on Reddit. "No hacking was involved in my acquisition of this data," he wrote. "I would call it more of a leak than anything, although not directly from Thomson Reuters." Vickery declined to share how he obtained the data, but he's already contacted Thomson Reuters about securing the source of the leak. In an email, Thomson Reuters said on Wednesday that it was "grateful" to Vickery for the alert. The "third-party" that leaked the database has taken it down, the company added. Vickery has previously exposed database leaks related to Mexican voters, a Hello Kitty online fan community and medical records. His copy of the World-Check database contains the names of over 2.2 million people and organizations declared "heightened risks." Only a small part of the data features a terrorism category. Additional categories include individuals with ties to money laundering, organized crime, corruption and others. He is asking Reddit users whether he should leak the database to the public. His concern is that innocent people with no criminal ties may have been placed on the list. The information isn't really secret either. Users can buy access to the database from Thomson Reuters. Leaking the database, however, could create risks and tip off "actual bad guys" that theyve been placed on the list, Vickery said. Thomson Reuters declined to say how it might respond if Vickery decides to publicize the information. The World-Check database is sourced from the companys analysts, "industry sources" and government records. WWDC 2016 and Apple made many moves to improve accessibility across its products, but the introduction of a version of the Apple Watch Activity app for wheelchair users was a particularly big deal. You see, theres never been an accurate fitness tracker like this before, and Apple has been working on it for at least a year. 'We wanted to do something' Apple has always led on the accessibility features. Even when we were finishing watchOS 1.0, we knew we wanted to do something for wheelchair users, Ron Huang, Director of Software Engineering for Location and Motion Technologies explains. Set to ship with watchOS 3 this Fall Apples new solution consists of two wheelchair workout apps, a setting to switch "Time to Stand" notifications to "Time to Roll," and Activity ring optimization. It's not a standalone app, but a function that will be made available through the next version Activity app Apple Watch users already use. I spoke with Dawna Callahan, Challenged Athletes Foundation Director of Programs, and a wheelchair user herself, who told me wheelchair users tend to be, "more sedentary compared to able-bodied people. Therefore, they are more prone to suffering from health diseases like obesity that lead to secondary diseases like heart attacks and diabetes." The developer's story Development, which took a year, was challenging. Despite that over 2.2 million people depend on wheelchairs in the US alone, Apple's team found a lack of available information to help inform development of the product: There were a few studies, but most had really small number of subjects and done inside labs in wheelchairs provided by those conducting the study, Huang explains. The team initially thought measuring activity for wheelchair users would be similar to counting steps with Activity tracker, but it turned out they had to think different. The first iteration of the app overcounted by at least 50 percent.. Consider how people in wheelchairs use their chairs youll see lots of different criteria the sensors on the watch would have to measure and understand: Wheel spin, and how far an arc the arms travel when doing this work Types of push Terrain uphill, downhill, smooth and rocky ground all impact activity Inactive gestures that appear to be a push Distance Calorific value of activity Even things like wheel width and seat height had to be understood. Apples engineers realized they had to develop brand new algorithms custom designed for wheelchair patients, from scratch. Starting from scratch We found that some of the basic principles used to calculate calories dont convert well for wheelchair users. We had to pretty much start from scratch, Huang said. Apple explored all the available literature, including the mobility guides patients are given when discharged from hospital. The company then worked with the Challenge Athletes Foundation (which offers Access for Athletes grants) and the Lakeshore Foundation to conduct its own study into wheelchair use. Unlike some previous studies, Apple wanted to gather data about how people used the kind of wheelchairs most users have. It fitted these with sensors, accelerometers and other measuring devices. Wheelchair users taking part in the study wore masks to measure oxygen intake and calories burned. Rather than only conducting studies in artificial laboratory situations Apple also collected data in everyday situations, including following study participants as they went about their normal daily routine. Apple finally accumulated 3,500 hours of data across 300 different users over 700 sessions. The next step The company then had to use this data to help it figure out how to measure "pushes", the equivalent to steps for wheelchair users. This posed a new set of challenges. We found so many different push styles, said Huang. "Starting off we thought counting pushes would be very similar to counting steps. It wasnt. Initial software builds overcounted pushes by 50 percent. Huangs team began a series of iterative software improvements until the results became consistently accurate. "The more you look into it, the harder and more challenging you realize it was, Huang said. The team focused on three different push styles: "The first is in a semicircle, pushing from 10 O'clock to 3 O'clock, Huang said. The second is called an arc push, and it's what you do when you have to push yourself up an incline: shorter, more powerful pushes with a quick jerk to the return position to prevent yourself from rolling back. Finally, there's the semi-loop-over: a pushing style that tends only to be done in competitive situations, like wheelchair racing, where you're really leaning into the push." Jonny Evans If you've visited Apple's new retail store in Union Square, San Francisco, you may have missed the access ramp that means every customer can access the store's chilled out tree-lined patio. Why it matters CAF sees the Apple Watch Activity App optimized for wheelchair users as a game-changing opportunity to encourage wheelchair users to be more active, said Callahan. So why did Apple do this? Apple has consistently focused on delivering best in class accessibility Macs have long offered out of the box access to accessibility solutions you must pay for on other platforms. This is part of the companys oft-stated mission to make a positive contribution to wider society. In this case it has achieved something unique. There has never been a fitness tracker that accurately captures such information, said Huang. This could make a significant difference to real people. "With not being able to utilize lower extremities, its more challenging for wheelchair users to find activities that increase their heart rate and activity level on a regular basis, Callahan explains. We are looking forward to the positive impact it will have on the users, she said. We are very excited to start using [the app when it ships in Fall] and share the opportunity within the wheelchair users community. Finally it is surely interesting to reflect that having developed a solution to measure the activity levels of wheelchair users, Apple has now gathered knowledge that could help inform development of activity measurement tools for other situations. The new and updated Activity app, now with these new features, ships with watchOS 3 in Fall. Google+? If you use social media and happen to be a Google+ user, why not join AppleHolic's Kool Aid Corner community and join the conversation as we pursue the spirit of the New Model Apple? Want Apple TV tips? If you want to learn how to get the very best out of your Apple TV, please visit my Apple TV website. Got a story? Drop me a line via Twitter or in comments below and let me know. I'd like it if you chose to follow me on Twitter so I can let you know when fresh items are published here first on Computerworld. After an outage of nearly four hours for some users Thursday, Google said its popular Calendar app is back up and running fully. Google initially reported on its Apps Status Dashboard that Calendar was down at 9:47 a.m. ET. Users from around the U.S. reported receiving a Server Error message when they tried to access their Calendar app. It's not yet clear how many countries were affected. At 11:33 a.m., the company reported, "Google Calendar service has already been restored for some users, and we expect a resolution for all users in the near future." At 2:36 p.m., Google reported on its Dashboard that the problem had been fully resolved. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience and continued support, the company said. Please rest assured that system reliability is a top priority at Google, and we are making continuous improvements to make our systems better. The cause for the problem wasn't reported. During the outage, the problem also seemed to affect Hangouts. Various reports surfaced from users who said they were unable to connect to a Hangout through Calendar. As usual, people took to Twitter to vent their frustrations, and have a bit of a laugh, at Google's Calendar problems. "Google calendar is down and i hope they do a post mortem and explain what happened and then i realized THEY CAN'T EVEN SCHEDULE THE MEETING," tweeted @ftrain. And @rkiker tweeted, "Google Calendar is down. Where am I?" The hacker who claims to have breached the Democratic National Committees networks is trying to beat back accusations that hes linked with the Russian government. The intrusion, which stole confidential files from the DNC, was his personal project, hacker Guccifer 2.0 said in a Thursday blog post. Security firms and the DNC may be trying to blame the attack on Russia, but they can prove nothing! Guccifer 2.0 added. All I hear is blah-blah-blah, unfounded theories, and somebodys estimates, he wrote. Guccifer 2.0 appeared on the web just a day after the DNC revealed it had been hacked. To prove he was behind the breach, the hacker began posting the files he stole. This included opposition research on presidential candidate Donald Trump, along with donor lists and foreign policy files. He claims to be Romanian and says he acted alone. But not everyone believes him. Some security researchers suspect Guccifer 2.0 may be a smokescreen to divert attention away from the real culprits, who may have been expert hacking teams based in Russia. A key piece of evidence has been the malware used to breach the DNC. This same malware has been linked to two separate Russian hacking teams, codenamed Cozy Bear and Fancy Bear. But on Wednesday, Guccifer 2.0 tried to pour cold water on that theory. Ideas about almighty Russian hackers are a myth, he said. Id like to reveal a secret to all those cool IT-specialists: All the hackers in the world use almost the same tools, he said. You can buy them or simply find them on the Web. He broke into the network using a little-known vulnerability found in the DNCs software, he added. The DNC used Windows on their server, so it made my work much easier, he said. I installed my trojan-like virus on their PCs. I just modified the platform that I bought on the hacking forums for about $1.5k. Security firms also suspect that the DNC breach was an intelligence gathering operation for Russia. But Guccifer 2.0 disputed that as well, saying it was hacktivism. However, Guccifer 2.0 said he had no sympathies for any candidates in the U.S. presidential election. He called Democrat Hillary Clinton a slave of moguls. Republican Trump, on the other hand, is more sincere, but his ideas on U.S. immigration are nonsense, the hacker added. By stealing files from the DNC, Guccifer 2.0 said he hoped to be like his heroes, including noted leakers Edward Snowden and Julian Assange. Whether or not he is telling the truth, however, is fodder for debate. Guccifer 2.0 could, indeed, be part of a Russian misinformation campaign to cover the hackers' tracks, said Rick Howard, chief security officer for Palo Alto Networks. "On the other hand, I don't know why [the hackers] would bother," he added. "Who cares? Governments have been stealing stuff from victims forever. Why would they need a misinformation campaign?" Other security experts have said that Guccifer 2.0 could be multiple people, pretending to be one user. The malware used in the DNC breach is actually relatively rare, said Michael Buratowski, a senior vice president with Fidelis Cybersecurity. Commenters have scoffed at Microsoft's backtracking from a widely-criticized practice to trick users into upgrading to Windows 10, arguing that it was nothing more than a public relations ploy employed when the free upgrade was just weeks from expiring. "People have been complaining about GWX [Get Windows 10] since last October. To finally admit there's a problem 1 month before the end of the promotion (and it'll be another week before everyone has this update) is really sad," wrote someone identified as Rossco1337 on a Reddit thread Wednesday. GWX is the app Microsoft has downloaded and installed -- in many cases multiple times -- on millions of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 devices for more than a year. The app manages the authorization of a free upgrade to Windows 10, displays notices and currently pre-schedules the process. "[Microsoft] probably [did this] so that years from now, the vague memory will be, 'Microsoft was a bit pushy, but in the end they backed off and gave people choice,'" added illithidbane in the same discussion thread. "They want it to have been pushy for as long as possible, get as many upgrades as possible, but end on a 'high' note." Earlier this week, Microsoft announced that it would revise the notification of a pending Windows 10 upgrade so that clicking the red "X" -- an action that for decades has been used to dismiss or ignore a dialog box -- will no longer be interpreted as approving the upgrade. When the click-x-and-approve-the-upgrade tactic became widely known last month, Windows users blasted the tactic, calling it deceptive because it authorized the upgrade when people believed they were rejecting it. The revamped GWX will interpret an X-click as the user wanting to temporarily ignore the notice -- it will reappear within a few days -- and presents a choice to decline the upgrade much more prominently. The changed GWX has yet to appear on customers' PCs. Although Microsoft did not give a specific reason for the changed GWX in a statement attributed to Terry Myerson, head of the firm's Windows and devices group, elsewhere Myerson explained that it originated with user feedback. "Since we introduced a new upgrade experience for Windows 10, we've received feedback that some of our valued customers found it confusing," Myerson told The Verge this week. "We've been working hard to incorporate their feedback and this week, we'll roll out a new upgrade experience with clear options to upgrade now, schedule a time, or decline the free offer." Some commentators weren't buying it. "It's a feeble attempt at gaining the trust back of some of their users by making it seem like they are listening to their users," countered someone labeled program_the_world on Reddit yesterday. "The timing on this is entirely intentional." The commenter was likely referring to the free upgrade's remaining month; Microsoft will end the one-year deal on July 29, the anniversary of the operating system's launch. After that, licenses to Windows 10 Home will cost. Commenters also added their two cents to the Computerworld news story outlining the changed GWX. "This is likely just a publicity stunt or an effort at damage control," maintained Michael Lou on Wednesday. "This is a waste of effort [because] there is only 1 month left [before] the upgrade offer expires on 29 July 2016." "Too late, Microsoft, you had a chance to do this right and you blew it," echoed someone identified only as Rick. Cllr Alex Williams is the Deputy Leader of Trafford Council. Following the huge events of the past seven days, nominations will close today for the biggest job in British politics with the repatriation of power from the EU the key deliverable in the job description. Id like to add another commitment to further devolution of power and a Conservative led economic revival of the north. Whilst to some the ambition of a Northern Powerhouse governed locally is just a soundbite, tangible evidence of the economic impact is already starting to show in Greater Manchester. Lets take two key economic indicators as examples job growth and net inward investment. Greater Manchester is now creating jobs at a faster rate than London with employment growth quicker than in any other large UK city. More professional services jobs have been created in the North-West than Greater London over the last 12 months. Since 2010, Manchester has created almost 14,000 jobs in the professional services, attracting students to stay in the city after graduation, pushing Manchesters graduate retention rate up to 58 per cent. Its little wonder that 60 per cent more 25 to 29-year-olds live in the city of Manchester than the UK average. The number of 20 to 30-year-olds coming to the city has also soared, with 123,600 living in Manchester compared to 78,301 a decade ago. But its not just the city of Manchester thats seeing career opportunities grow. Conservative Trafford is forecast to grow at a rate of 15 per cent and create over 3,800 new jobs in the professional services sector by 2020. Oxford Economics predict that the job creation rate in Manchester is set to outpace top international cities including Berlin and Paris. On net inward investment, its a similar positive picture. According to Ernst & Youngs 2016 UK attractiveness Survey, Manchester continues to lead the way in the region and the North West is the fastest growing region in the UK for international investment. The North West benefited from 98 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in 2015 the largest number in a decade representing an increase of 118 per cent on 2014 when the region attracted just 45. These positive steps forward have been in major part because of devolution to Greater Manchester, commitment from Government to the right infrastructure programmes as soon as possible (including projects such as the proposed east-west high rail link known as High Speed 3) and a long-term, pro-business approach from local authorities in the city region including Conservative Trafford. With a new Prime Minister committed to devolution, the Northern Powerhouse and the mayoral elections in 2017, we also have the opportunity of a revival in the Partys fortunes in the north similar to that in Scotland. Whilst the current political focus is clearly on Brexit and the immediate political and economic uncertainty and volatility, the new Conservative Government must not lose sight of our driving manifesto commitments in 2010 and 2015 delivering long-term, stable economic growth and the rebalancing of our economy across the north. Conservatives in Trafford are as focused on it as when we first agreed devolution arrangements with Government in Greater Manchester in 2014. The next Conservative Prime Minister must remain committed to that journey which is delivering jobs and prosperity for the residents that we serve. This country has just undertaken one of the most momentous political decisions in our history. During the referendum I urged those involved to conduct the debate with courtesy and civility. I hope that this leadership contest will be carried out in the same spirit and I would like to thank at the outset my colleagues who have given me their support and their loyalty. The events of last week have left many on both sides of the argument feeling bruised and uncertain. If we are to heal the divisions created by the referendum on our EU membership we must fully implement the instruction given to us by the British people. So let me be clear, I do not believe there is room for membership of the single market, if it entails free movement of people. Those who voted to leave the EU would regard it as a betrayal, and frankly they would be right. We do not need to be part of the single market to sell into it; countries like the United States managed to do that very well. It is in our mutual interests to have a free and open trade relationship with our European partners but we cannot accept the concept of free movement of people as its cost. It is right that we should put our national interest first. But we should do it in a way that cooperates wherever possible with our European partners in our mutual interests. At the same time, we must have no truck with some of the more xenophobic and racist views expressed in recent days they have no place in a tolerant and decent society and it is the duty of all of us to disown them. The referendum ignited understandable passions on both sides, but they should never be an excuse for abhorrent sentiments. It is our duty as a nation to meet them head on, to show that Britain will never reject the world or its people. I believe that the events of last week have ushered in a new dawn for our country. We must approach it in a spirit of confidence, optimism and hope. We are not leaving the EU we are re-joining the rest of the world. We have always been an outward looking and forward-looking nation. In fact, the era of globalisation could have been written with us in mind. In a competitive global economy, we have enormous natural advantages. A system of law, including commercial law that is admired across the whole world. We have a skilled workforce, low levels of industrial disruption, low regulation, low taxation, some of the best universities in the world, we speak English and we are in the right time zone for global trading. We need to lift our sights and recognise these natural blessings that we have. We are a well-connected nation, well-placed for the flexibility and agility that the 21st century will demand. We are the worlds fifth biggest economy and members of the G7 and the G 20. We have the worlds fifth biggest defence budget and lie at the heart of NATO, with a special relationship with United States. We are at the centre of the Commonwealth and have unique historic relations with countries around the globe. We have enormous strengths, and this is the time to play to those strengths. I first joined the Conservative party at the very end of the 1970s when Britain was in a very different state to that which we enjoy today. I did so because I believed that the Conservative party offered genuine freedom and opportunity. It didnt matter what your parents did or what school you went to, which part of the country you came from or what kind of house you grew up in. That mattered to me, in west central Scotland, as someone who came from a very ordinary background and who went to one of the biggest comprehensive schools in the country. And believe me, you didnt join the Conservative Party where I grew up if you wanted to be a career politician! I have been extraordinarily fortunate to have two careers that I have loved the first as a doctor in the NHS and the second as a Member of Parliament. Some people say that to give up a medical career to become an MP is bit of a waste I disagree. Not only do I believe that our current politicians are drawn from too narrow a range of society, but I believe that training in a profession such as medicine allows a real sense of perspective. Someone with a cardiac arrest, let me tell you, is a genuine crisis; critical comments on social media are merely an irritation. Understanding that difference really matters. I have worked as a hospital doctor, a GP, a minister at the Foreign Office, shadow health secretary, chairman of the Conservative Party, shadow foreign secretary and Secretary of State for Defence. Each of them has for me been an enriching and learning experience and I believe that experience matters. All these those influences have shaped the political views that I hold. I believe in a genuinely meritocratic society where we understand that the first rung on the ladder is the most important one. Aspiration must be king, but we must recognise that poverty is not simply about the lack of material wealth. Poverty of aspiration and poverty of hope are destructive powers in even the wealthiest societies and we must always be on our guard against them. I believe that we have a moral duty to help those who cannot help themselves but not those who will not help themselves, which is why I believe that we need to continue welfare reform so that it is genuinely targeted at those in greatest need and where those who are able to help themselves are encouraged and assisted to do so. And we must ensure a fair balance between generations, so that those who have contributed a lifetime of work to our country are properly looked after without placing an undue burden on the young who have as much right as their parents and grandparents to be part of a property owning democracy with the ability to get on the housing ladder while avoiding penal rates of taxation. Im also a capitalist but not a corporatist. My capitalist heroes are not the big bankers who pocket bonuses whether or not they are successful, but the corner shop owners and the small businessmen and women who make sacrifices throughout their lives, including family time and holidays in order to pass something on to the next generation. I believe that innovation, talent and effort must be rewarded and that our economic system must reflect these values. Finally, I am, and always have been a committed Unionist. I believe that the integrity of the United Kingdom has been key to all that we have achieved. I have no problem with being proud to be a Scot and simultaneously proud to be British. But we will have to defend our precious union from the forces of nationalism who would sow the seeds of division amongst us. To be patriotic is to have pride in and loyalty to a nation. Nationalism all too often has its roots in the hatred of others. We must never allow those forces to destroy what generations have fought, married and moved to achieve. As a nation, we have developed and exported ideas of individual freedom, the rule of law and the democratic process. We must defend those ideas today as much as ever before. We must be willing to boldly proclaim that our views are not just different from, but better than the alternatives. For example, in relation to fundamentalist Islamism our ways are better- better to have religious tolerance than violently imposed orthodoxy, better to have a concept of universal rights than not, better to have societies in which women play a full and equal role with men. Likewise, when it comes to the issue of immigration, where our country has a proud tradition, we must be willing to tell the truth. If we celebrate merely the diversity in our society, without celebrating commonality and all the things that unite us at the same time, then we will end up not with diversity, but fragmentation. But ideas, however important, are never enough on their own. We must have the proper policy prescriptions to put our values into action and to deal with the problems faced by our country and our people. In healthcare, for example, as a doctor I want us to end our obsession with the structures of health provision and focus more on making patients better. We need to deal with the drivers of health costs if we are to be able to make ends meet. But it is not just policy change that I want to see. I also want to see changes in the structures of government itself, not least out there in Whitehall, creating a more efficient and effective system and I will set out more detailed ideas on this later. Let me also just remind ourselves that while this is a leadership contest that will provide us with a new Prime Minister, it is also about the leadership of the Conservative Party. The principles of meritocracy that ought to apply to the whole of our society must also apply to our party in Parliament and our Government. We must ensure that talent is rewarded and not which dinner party you attend or the social circle in which you mix. There is too much unused talent on the government benches at the present time, and that must be rectified. Likewise, if we preach the language of democracy, then we must apply it to our own party. I would like, for example, to explore the idea of a directly elected Conservative Party chairman, so that our members feel they have a genuine voice in the seat of power. I hope that this leadership contest can help unify our party and our country for years to come. There are so many reasons to be optimistic. We live in a land of opportunity, in a world of opportunity. Last week the British people made clear how much they value our freedom. Freedom that was forged in the heat of our history, snatched from the hands of tyrants and defended against dictators. It is, and remains, our most precious asset. We should never forget that we live in a special country. It is time to feel special again. There is so much that we can achieve. For our country. For each other. Politics has become too much about we the politicians, not about the people we are elected to represent. For what is any country but the sum of its people? Serving them can be a great challenge but, more importantly is a truly inspiring situation in which we find ourselves, and very often a real joy. Good morning, and thank you for coming. I want to start by paying tribute to the Prime Minister. It is easy to forget how far the Conservative Party and our country have come since David Cameron was first elected leader in 2005. Thanks to David, we were elected into government for the first time in eighteen years. We won a majority in the House of Commons for the first time in 23 years. And in difficult times we stabilised the economy, reduced the deficit and helped more people into work than ever before. But Davids legacy is about more than the economic rescue mission we undertook. Some of our biggest achievements including the introduction of same-sex marriage and taking the lowest-paid out of income tax altogether theyve been all about the pursuit of social justice. We have shown that when the Conservatives have an open, inclusive, One Nation agenda of social reform, we win elections and we change the country for the better. So I want to thank David, on behalf of our Party, for his public service and for his significant achievements as Prime Minister. It has been a privilege to serve in his Cabinet. Candidacy to become Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister I have invited you here today to announce my candidacy to become the Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. And I do so for three clear reasons. First, following last weeks referendum, our country needs strong, proven leadership to steer us through this period of economic and political uncertainty, and to negotiate the best possible terms as we leave the European Union. Second, we need leadership that can unite our Party and our country. With the Labour Party tearing itself to pieces, and divisive nationalists in Scotland and Wales, it is nothing less than the patriotic duty of our Party to unite and govern in the best interests of the whole country. And third, we need a bold, new, positive vision for the future of our country a vision of a country that works not for a privileged few but for every one of us. Political certainty and economic confidence following the referendum I will turn to those three issues in just a moment. But as we know this is not a normal leadership election held in normal circumstances. So I want to talk first about the immediate need for political certainty and economic confidence following the referendum. Whether you supported Leave or Remain in the referendum campaign and whether you predicted the sky would fall in or whether you didnt the result means we face a period of uncertainty that needs to be addressed head on. The country needs strong leadership and a clear sense of direction, to give confidence to investors, to keep the economy moving, and to keep people in work. The fundamentals of the British economy are strong and will continue to be strong as we negotiate our departure from the EU. Economic growth has been solid, employment is at a record high, and the budget deficit has been reduced from eleven per cent of national income at the time of the banking crisis to a predicted three per cent this year. Our financial system is well-capitalised and resilient. The capital requirements of the biggest banks and the liquid assets they hold mean they have the flexibility to keep on lending to businesses and families. And the Governors swift action last Friday means that the Bank of England is ready to provide significant additional funds and liquidity in foreign currency, should our financial institutions need it. He has also made clear that the Bank continues to assess the economic conditions and will take further action if necessary. So the Bank of England has taken the right actions to maintain confidence, and I know that the Chancellor has said he will support the Bank if other measures are needed. But beyond that, I want to use this opportunity to make several things clear. First, Brexit means Brexit. The campaign was fought, the vote was held, turnout was high, and the public gave their verdict. There must be no attempts to remain inside the EU, no attempts to rejoin it through the back door, and no second referendum. The country voted to leave the European Union, and it is the duty of the Government and of Parliament to make sure we do just that. Second, there should be no general election until 2020. There should be a normal Autumn Statement, held in the normal way at the normal time, and no emergency Budget. And there should be no decision to invoke Article Fifty until the British negotiating strategy is agreed and clear which means Article Fifty should not be invoked before the end of this year. Third, we should make clear that for the foreseeable future there is absolutely no change in Britains trading relationships with the EU or other markets. And until a new legal agreement is reached with the EU, which will not happen for some time, the legal status of British nationals living or working in Europe will not change and neither will the status of EU nationals in Britain. And fourth, while it is absolutely vital that the Government continues with its intention to reduce public spending and cut the budget deficit, we should no longer seek to reach a budget surplus by the end of the Parliament. If before 2020 there is a choice between further spending cuts, more borrowing and tax rises, the priority must be to avoid tax increases since they would disrupt consumption, employment and investment. Negotiating our departure from the EU These are all measures that will be taken by a Conservative Government I lead, and they offer stability and certainty to consumers, employers and investors for the foreseeable future. And I want to reassure foreign governments, international companies and foreign nationals living in Britain that we are the same outward-looking and globally-minded and big-thinking country we have always been and we remain open for business and welcoming to foreign talent. But looking ahead, negotiating the best possible terms as we leave the European Union will be crucial to our future prosperity. And that is going to require strong, proven leadership. I intend, in the coming weeks, to set out in some more detail my proposed negotiating principles, but for now I want to make two important points about the way we conduct this negotiation. First, nobody should fool themselves that this process will be brief or straightforward. Regardless of the time it takes to negotiate the initial deal, it is going to take a period lasting several years to disentangle our laws, rules and processes from the Brussels machinery. That means it is going to require significant expertise and a consistent approach. I will therefore create a new government department responsible for conducting Britains negotiation with the EU and for supporting the rest of Whitehall in its European work. That department will be led by a senior Secretary of State and I will make sure that the position is taken by a Member of Parliament who campaigned for Britain to leave the EU. The second point is while the ability to trade with EU member states is vital to our prosperity, there is clearly no mandate for a deal that involves accepting the free movement of people as it has worked hitherto. Now is not the time for me to set out my full negotiating principles that will come later. But I want to be clear that as we conduct our negotiations, it must be a priority to allow British companies to trade with the single market in goods and services but also to regain more control of the numbers of people who come here from Europe. Any attempt to wriggle out of that especially from leadership candidates who campaigned to leave the EU by focusing on immigration will be unacceptable to the public. The need for unity The process of withdrawal will be complex, and it will require hard work, serious work, and detailed work. And it means we need a Prime Minister who is a tough negotiator, and ready to do the job from day one. But even then, it will not be possible to do what is right for Britain, to get the best deal we can for our country, unless we are united as a Party and as a Government. That is why I believe so strongly that there needs to be a proper contest with a leader elected by the whole Party with a proper mandate and no coronation brought about by back-room deals. Weve just emerged from a bruising and often divisive campaign. Throughout, I made clear that on balance I favoured staying inside the EU because of the economic risk of leaving, the importance of cooperation on security matters, and the threat to the Union between England and Scotland but I also said that the sky would not fall in if we left. I was open about the costs and the benefits and the risks and the opportunities of EU membership. So now the decision has been made, lets make the most of the opportunities that our departure presents and get out into the world and help British firms to do business all around the globe. Because the task in front of us is no longer about deciding whether we should leave or remain. The country has spoken, and the United Kingdom will leave the EU. The job now is about uniting the Party, uniting the country securing the Union and negotiating the best possible deal for Britain. And as you can see from some of my early supporters present here today, like Chris Grayling from the Leave campaign and Justine Greening from the Remain campaign, under my leadership the Conservative Party will be able to come back together and govern not just in the interests of seventeen million Leave voters or sixteen million Remain voters but in the interests of our whole country. A vision of a country that works for everyone And this is a crucial point. Of course we need to unite the Party and the country, and of course we need to negotiate the best deal we can with Europe. But if were going to govern in the interests of the whole country, we cannot allow the Government to be defined exclusively and indefinitely by the process of our withdrawal from the EU. Because Britain still needs a Government that is capable of delivering a programme of serious social reform and realising a vision of a country that truly works for everyone. The evidence of this need has been known to us for a long time. If youre born poor, you will die on average nine years earlier than others. If youre black, youre treated more harshly by the criminal justice system than if youre white. If youre a white, working-class boy, youre less likely than anybody else to go to university. If youre at a state school, youre less likely to reach the top professions than if youre educated privately. If youre a woman, you still earn less than a man. If you suffer from mental health problems, theres too often not enough help to hand. If youre young, youll find it harder than ever before to own your own home. These are all burning injustices, and as I did with the misuse of stop and search and deaths in police custody and modern slavery I am determined to fight against them. But the mission to make this a country that works for everyone goes further than fighting these injustices. If youre from an ordinary, working-class family, life is just much harder than many people in politics realise. You have a job, but you dont always have job security. You have your own home, but you worry about mortgage rates going up. You can just about manage, but you worry about the cost of living and the quality of the local school, because theres no other choice for you. Frankly, not everybody in Westminster understands what its like to live like this. And some need to be told that what the Government does isnt a game, its a serious business that has real consequences for peoples lives. I will set out more detailed proposals in the coming weeks, but for today I want to be clear: under my leadership, the motives of the Conservative Party will never be in any doubt. And our actions will be bold. We, the Conservatives, will put ourselves at the service of ordinary, working people and we will strive to make Britain a country that works for everyone regardless of who they are and regardless of where theyre from. Who I am I know there is a great hunger for this kind of One Nation vision in the Conservative Party. Whether it is the 2020 Group, the Blue Collar Conservatism agenda or the social justice caucus, I have never known our Party to be so alive with such creative policy thinking and such an obvious desire to improve peoples lives. And it this is the kind of Conservatism Ive always believed in and always stood for. I know some politicians seek high office because theyre driven by ideological fervour. And I know others seek it for reasons of ambition or glory. But my reasons are much simpler. I grew up the daughter of a local vicar and the granddaughter of a regimental sergeant major. Public service has been a part of who I am for as long as I can remember. I know Im not a showy politician. I dont tour the television studios. I dont gossip about people over lunch. I dont go drinking in Parliaments bars. I dont often wear my heart on my sleeve. I just get on with the job in front of me. And you can judge me by my record. As Home Secretary, I was told I couldnt take on the Police Federation, but I did. I was told I couldnt cut police spending without crime going up, but crime is lower than ever. I was told I shouldnt start asking questions about police corruption, but everywhere Ive seen it from Stephen Lawrence to Hillsborough Ive exposed it. I was told I couldnt stop Gary McKinnons extradition, but I stood up to the American Government and I stopped it. I was told I couldnt deport Abu Qatada, but I flew to Jordan and negotiated the treaty that got him out of Britain for good. But if ever there was a time for a Prime Minister who is ready and able to do the job from day one, this is it. We have immediate work to do to restore political stability and economic certainty, to bring together the Party and the country, and to negotiate a sensible and orderly departure from the European Union. But more than that, we have a mission to make Britain a country that works not for the privileged and not for the few but for every one of our citizens. Together, we the Conservative Party can build a better Britain. Garvan Walshe was National and International Security Policy Adviser to the Conservative Party until 2008. Democratic fundamentalism is now the most serious threat to freedom in the West. The belief that the wishes of a momentary majority of the electorate are enough to bring about radical and irreversible change has already sent liberal democracy back in Poland and Hungary. It has laid the Republican party low, and threatens the Labour party with extinction. It risks bringing the Union of England and Scotland, so successful for 300 years, to a messy and entirely unnecessary end. It has deepened divisions within England, between its productive, dynamic and outward looking cities, and its decaying, ageing, post-industrial towns, to the point that the country may be impossible to govern. Lacking a codified constitution, and with a political class no longer versed in British constitutional history, we ended up with the wrong kind of referendum. The proper way to leave would have been to elect a pro-Brexit government that then put a deal it had negotiated with the EU to the people who would have had something concrete to vote on. Instead the very vagueness of what Brexit was to entail allowed the leave campaign to fight a highly successful culture war and marshalled a revolt of the tax-eaters against the tax-payers. My side were too timid, disorganised and boxed in by government policy to match them. It is no good for us to complain that the leave campaign lied: we knew that was how they would campaign, and failed to prepare for it. As Barack Obama used to say, politics aint beanbag. Having spent the last 40 years campaigning to overturn the result of the last referendum on Europe, Brexiteers now insist that this one should, like the revelations of Mohammed, be final. They claimed that new generations who hadnt voted in 1975 deserved a say; but it was the old, who had had a chance to vote then, who gave them victory. I dont want a second referendum one was bad enough but if leavers are so confident they represent the settled will, and not just the fleeting appetite, of the British people, why not hold another? After all, Nigel Farage and Dan Hannan both suggested that if the result had been 52-48 the other way, a re-run might be required. If parliamentary sovereignty means that no parliament can bind its successor, then popular sovereignty has to mean that no referendum can bind the people forever. Like all fundamentalisms, democratic extremism takes a noble idea, that everyones political views should count equally, too far. But if democracy is to endure, voters must inform themselves of the facts, avoid being swayed by prejudice and emotion, and to base judgements on evidence. The romantic invocation of popular sovereignty is no substitute for calm deliberation. It is not reasonable however for a political elite simply to tell voters they are wrong. The people have every reason to distrust it on the very issue that motivated them to vote to leave: immigration. For more than a decade voters have been told that immigration could be controlled with ease, even though the kind of control they want can only come at enormous economic cost, and by running the risk of stirring up xenophobic feeling across the country. The elites greatest error wasnt, as is often said, to ignore their concerns: but to pretend to address them while doing nothing. Was it asking too much of our political system to try and explain why they were misplaced, and address the real problems that have for the past fifteen years falsely been blamed on immigration? The remain campaigns predictions, however disbelieved, are coming true. The pound has had its steepest fall in 30 years. Banks and housebuilders have lost up to a third of their value. $2 trillion was wiped of global stock markets on the day after the vote. Scotland is poised to break away. The mythical better deal where greater immigration restrictions could be won without losing access to the single market was immediately rejected by Angela Merkel. On June 23rd the people voted to take a huge gamble on the outcome of the Brexit negotiations leaves the next Prime Minister trapped. He or she can either sacrifice the interests of leave voters by throwing aside 40 years of business relationships with our largest trading partner, or betray their beliefs by concluding a Norway-style deal that has us formally leave the EU, but maintains economic arrangements more or less unchanged. If they get it wrong, Scotland will secede and UKIPs rank racism will be almost impossible to stop. 9.15 am Update Ignore all below or at least squint at it in a sensational new context. Michael Gove has broken with Boris Johnson, and is to stand for the leadership himself. Three quick reactions. First, the Justice Secretary is a man of talent, wit, and principlewith a tendency, perhaps surprising in one so bookish, to cross a room to pick a fight sometimes with the voters. Second, he has certainly picked a quarrel now. His bolt of lightning will harm Johnsons campaign, and have blowback for Goves own. Third, all this knives-in-the-palace is terrific Westminster Village drama: theres a smack about of one of Goves favourite TV shows, Game of Thrones. Great entertainment, perhaps; baleful overtones, certainly. Our country is setting off on a new journey, and needs all the unity, resolve and sense of common endeavour it can get. A YouGov poll of Party members in todays Times () puts Theresa May ahead of Boris Johnson by 55 per cent to 38 per cent. We dont do head-to-heads in our monthly survey, but we do ask about a range of candidates. So does YouGov in a seperate question, and its findings have the same shape as ours: May ahead of Johnson (though by 9 points rather than a whisker), and the rest a long way behind (longer, according to YouGov). So it really does look as though the contest that Party members want is Johnson V May at least at the moment. Both launch their campaigns this morning; Liam Fox launches his early this afternoon. Stephen Crabb launched yesterday. I tweeted yesterday that Andrea Leadsom is unlikely to stand. Robert Peston suggests that she will line up with Johnson. There may be other candidacies, but as matters stand these are the four main runners. What Party members want may not, of course, be what Conservative MPs want. Have a look at Stephen Crabbs list of backers on this site. Most of them are from the 2010 and 2015 intakes, which now constitute a big slice of the Tory parliamentary party. If Crabb can build on his start he could take support both from Johnson and perhaps especially from May, his fellow-Remainer. But the odds must be that the final two are indeed Johnson and May. We posed ten exacting but we believe fair questions about Crabbs candidacy yesterday, and will do the same later today to Johnson and May, following up with the same for Fox tomorrow. The first round of voting takes place next Tuesday and the second, if it is necessary, next Thursday. I am a veteran of the 2005 leadership race. Its Parliamentary stage seemed to stretch on forever. This one is shooting by very fast. From ConservativeHome in December 2014: David Cameron, Boris, Osborne, Michael Gove: they have their rows and their rapprochementsNone the less, the four have a lot in common. All were privately educated. (The Mayor and Gove were scholarship boys.) All studied at the same University. Three were even members of the same society. All have worked either as special advisers or as journalists or in the Chancellors case, both. All came into the Commons during the Blair Supremacy: it left a mark on each of them. In short, all are members of the Club sociable, political to their fingertips, birds of a feather. Theresa May also studied at Oxford, and nurtured political ambitions early. But there the resemblance ends. She was educated at a private school, a grammar school and a comprehensive (the second having become the third). She worked at the Bank of England, rather than in a government department or at a newspaper. Unlike any of the four men, she has served as a local councillor. She is of an older generation. At 58, she is eight years older than Boris, nine than Cameron, eleven than Gove, and a full 15 years older than Osborne. But biggest difference of is nothing to do with age or even temperament, though she is famously reserved where they are outgoing. The difference between her and the four men isnt so much one of belief or outlook or even approach to politics as one of sex and sensibility. Shes always a woman to me, sings Billy Joel. In quoting him, I am showing my age. But the point remains. Why do Boris, Osborne and Gove all converge to agree: Anyone But Theresa? Could it be because shes not a member of the Club. Today, as Michael Gove takes Boris Johnson over the edge of the Reichenbach Falls, the Men v May view looks, more than ever, to have a point. The Justice Secretary could stage a comeback, make it to the final, and beat the Home Secretary in the ballot of members. Or he may be overhauled by Andrea Leadsom or Liam Fox or even perhaps, given the larger number of pro-Leave candidates, by Stephen Crabb. But this afternoon, Mays distance and difference from the two men who have run the Government (Cameron and Osborne) and the two others who together planned to succeed them (Gove and Johnson) is serving her in good stead. Conservative MPs seem to be looking to her as the grown-up in the pack. It aint all over till the fat lady sings, and we are a very long way from the end of this contest. None the less, its looking good at the moment for a rather thinner lady. We will put our ten questions to her and to Gove tomorrow. "Report to the Department of the Interior" By Diane Glancy I met Diane Glancy many years ago when she came to Montana for a week to tour Tribal Colleges through an NEA-funded program of The Writers Voice entitled Native Voices. I fondly remember her intelligence and humor, and her gentle lyrical voice sharing stories with Crow, Cheyenne and Assiniboine Sioux students, encouraging them to write their own poems and stories. Constructed as a series of reports to the Department of the Interior, these poems of grief, anger, defiance, and resistance focus on the oppressive education system adopted by Indian boarding schools and the struggles Naive Americans experienced to retain and honor traditional ways of life. In nine sections, through several reports and multiple voices, missionaries, government agents, teachers and Indian students, the poet takes readers through significant events in Native American history. Reports (3) Dennis Thomas shuffles, slouches, sprawls his legs in the aisle, no socks, thinly clad on cold days to get attention, in general a nuisance Abraham Hill crushed his right arm and two fingers trying to jump the train. Cecelia Matlock large slow complains all day of hot summer months in the laundry Charles Packineaus mangled body was found by the railroad tracks by his brother, David, who escorted his body back to Elbowoods, ND. Drawing inspiration from the bureaucratic form and language of government reports, Glancys poems give voice to the Native American children whose self-identity was dissolved inside the boarding school system. World Literature Today They Said Hallelujah The missionaries said he was seated on his throne. The wounded got up from the ground. He made them whole and it happened before our eyes. We had not seen this before, though the missionaries said he would. He is a God who robs his people of what they are and want to be and makes them into sheep. We wanted to be warriors and did not want to bleat. Then the ones we looked for brought us whiskey. It was something we had to have to survive as sheep. Diane Glancy is an American author and educator of Cherokee descent with more than 25 books of poetry, fiction, nonfiction and drama. Report to the Department of the Interior is a poetry finalist for the High Plains Book Award. Glancy will attend the BookFest on Oct. 7 and 8. I encourage everyone to come and hear her wise and emotionally potent poems. SHARE Continuing 'Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice' Batman (Ben Affleck) and Superman (Henry Cavill) clash over differing philosophies. The duo are soon forced to confront an even greater threat created by nefarious billionaire Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg). (PG-13) 'central intelligence' After he reunites with an old pal through Facebook, a mild-mannered accountant is lured into the world of international espionage. Stars Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart and Danielle Nicolet. (PG-13) 'the conjuring 2' Lorraine (Vera Farmiga) and Ed Warren (Patrick Wilson) travel to north London to help a single mother raising four children alone in a house plagued by malicious spirits. (R) 'finding dory' The friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish reunites with her loved ones, and everyone learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way. Stars the voices of Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks and Ed O'Neill. (PG) 'free state of jones' As civil war divides the nation, a poor farmer (Matthew McConaughey) from Mississippi leads a group of rebels against the Confederate army. (R) 'independence day: resurgence' Two decades after the first Independence Day invasion, Earth is faced with a new extra-Solar threat. Stars Liam Hemsworth, Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman. (PG-13) 'miracles from heaven' A young girl suffering from a rare digestive disorder finds herself miraculously cured after surviving a terrible accident. Stars Jennifer Garner, Kylie Rogers and Martin Henderson (PG) 'money monster' Financial TV host Lee Gates (George Clooney) and his producer Patty (Julia Roberts) are put in an extreme situation when an irate investor takes over their studio. (R) 'neighbors 2: sorority rising' After a sorority moves in next door, which is even more debaucherous than the fraternity before it, Mac and Kelly have to ask for help from their former enemy, Teddy. Stars Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne and Zac Efron. (R) 'the neon demon' When aspiring model Jesse moves to Los Angeles, her youth and vitality are devoured by a group of beauty-obsessed women who will take any means necessary to get what she has. Stars Elle Fanning, Christina Hendricks and Keanu Reeves. (R) 'now you see me 2' The Four Horsemen resurface and are forcibly recruited by a tech genius to pull off their most impossible heist yet. Stars Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo, Woody Harrelson. (PG-13) 'the shallows' A mere 200 yards from shore, surfer Nancy (Blake Lively) is attacked by a great white shark, with her short journey to safety becoming the ultimate contest of wills. (PG-13) 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows' The turtles face a new challenge when Shredder escapes from custody and joins forces with Baxter Stockman, a mad scientist who plans to use a serum to take over the world. Along for the ride are Bebop and Rocksteady, two dimwitted henchmen who provide plenty of muscle. Stars Megan Fox, Stephen Amell, Will Arnett, Brian Tee and Tyler Perry. (PG-13) 'x-men: apocalypse' With the emergence of the world's first mutant, Apocalypse, the X-Men must unite to defeat his extinction level plan. Stars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender and Jennifer Lawrence. 'zootopia' In a city of anthropomorphic animals, a fugitive con artist fox and a rookie bunny cop must work together to uncover a conspiracy. Stars the voices of Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman and Idris Elba. (PG) SHARE By Mark Wilson of the Courier and Press An Evansville woman on Thursday was sentenced to federal prison for her admitted role in a meth-dealing conspiracy with her mother and mother's fiance. Amy Renee Robertson, 29, appeared in U.S. District Court on Thursday. Judge Richard L. Young sentenced her to 14 years, a term set out in a plea agreement in April. Robertson could have received as much as life in prison because of her prior felony convictions, but in a deal with federal prosecutors she pleaded guilty to charges of conspiring to possess with an intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The sentence also included five years of supervised release following her incarceration. Robertson still faces separate charges of conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder in Vanderburgh Circuit Court based on her alleged role in attacking a man with a hammer in December 2014. She was one of five people charged in that incident, which occurred in the midst of a Joint Drug Task Force investigation into the methamphetamine dealing ring. When officers arrested Robertson in January 2015, they found 10 grams of methamphetamine in her house and a .45 caliber handgun in a safe, according to court testimony Wednesday. Robertson's mother, Eva Buck, is facing charges in two separate indictments for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Buck's fiance, James Ling, also was indicted for distributing controlled substances. Others in the drug conspiracy would travel to Arizona to bring back large amounts of crystal methamphetamine by vehicle, according to court testimony. Two Billings men accused of trafficking meth and firearms denied federal charges on Wednesday. During an arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carolyn Ostby, Thomas Dean Smith, 43, and Duane Timothy Smith Jr., 34, pleaded not guilty to multiple drug and gun charges in a superseding indictment. Prosecutor Brendan McCarthy alleges in court records that the pair conspired with each other to distribute meth from about September 2015 until April 25 in Billings. Each defendant also faces charges that he illegally possessed firearms after having been convicted of a felony. The two also are charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking Duane Thomas Smith Jr., also faces charges that he possessed a shotgun with a barrel of less than 18 inches. The indictment has a forfeiture count seeking firearms, ammunition and currency seized during the investigation. If convicted, each defendant faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison on the drug charges plus a mandatory five years to life, consecutive to any other sentence, on possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. U.S. Magistrate Judge Carolyn Ostby ordered each defendant to remain in custody. The case will be heard by U.S. District Judge Susan Watters. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell speaks at the Road to Majority Conference, in Washington on June 10, 2016. (Photo: Jim Lo Scalzo, European Pressphoto Agency) SHARE By David M Jackson, USA TODAY Senate Majority Leader is still having a hard time saying whether is qualified for the presidency. "Trump clearly needs to change, in my opinion, to win the general election," McConnell told Time Warner Cable News' NY1 in an interview. The Senate Republican leader said he has told Trump: "'Youre a great entertainer. You turn on audiences. Youre good before a crowd. You have a lot of Twitter followers. That worked fine for you in the primaries. But now that you are in the general, people are looking for a level of seriousness that is typically conveyed by having a prepared text and Teleprompter and staying on message.' " McConnell, who is on a book tour, echoed previous comments he has made about the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. While Democratic candidate is "intelligent and capable," McConnell told Time Warner Cable News that he hopes Trump and the Republicans win the November election. "So my hope is that he is beginning to pivot and become what I would call a more serious and credible candidate for the highest office in the land," McConnell said. Asked specifically whether Trump meets the threshold of credibility for the presidency, McConnell said: "Hes getting closer. Getting closer." After assaulting three women over five years, Jason Matthew Parkhill was sentenced Monday to serve 17 years with the Montana Department of Corrections. The 37-year-old was being held in the Yellowstone County Detention Facility on an $80,000 bond since January. He pleaded no contest in June and was sentenced by Judge Gregory Todd, who handed down the 17-year sentence with five years suspended. Parkhill will serve at least seven of those years in prison. In total, Parkhill was sentenced on one charge of partner or family member assault and two counts of tampering with witnesses, in addition to violating the terms of a 2013 deferred sentence for partner or family member assault. In addition, a fourth woman in 2013 was granted a protective order against Parkhill. In that protective order, she told a judge he had physically and verbally abused her. She stated in the order, "(Parkhill) just beat a woman on Monday night, and I fear he will get out of jail and come get me and hurt my kids." Parkhills history of domestic violence dates back to 1999, when he was convicted in Washington state of violating multiple protection orders from women. His assaults include shoving a woman and threatening her with a fist on Nov. 3, 2012. For that he was convicted of misdemeanor partner or family member assault and received a one-year suspended sentence followed by six months probation. As part of that sentence, he completed 40 hours of an anger management program. A year later, in November 2013, Parkhill sent multiple texts to a victim identified in court records as J.P. She agreed to meet with him but brought along her aunt. He threatened to kill the aunt if J.P. didn't get in a car with him. He drove J.P. to an area on the side of the interstate and punched her in the face several times. He pleaded guilty to the charges, and Todd ordered him to serve a two-year deferred sentence. That sentence was revoked as part of his Monday sentencing and instead he received a three-year suspended sentence. On Dec. 11, 2014, Parkhill attacked a woman identified as K.M. when she tried to break up with him. He went to her house as she was getting in the car with her son to take him to school. Parkhill yelled at the woman, slapped her car windows and attempted to get her door open. When the woman drove away, Parkhill followed her for several blocks. He was held on a $10,000 bond and placed on GPS monitoring after being charged. His next assault against that woman occurred on April 5, 2015. Parkhill went to K.M.'s house at about 1 a.m. and pinned her to the bed, pulling her hair and only stopping when the woman's daughter walked in. Charging documents said some of the womans hair was pulled out and she had bruises. Parkhill was released on Nov. 5 on a $25,000 with GPS monitoring. He was again charged with felony partner family assault and tampering with witnesses. He committed his most recent assault on Jan. 3, assaulting a victim identified as J.G. by pushing her while she was holding her child. He also hit her in the eye. His bond was set at $80,000 and he has not been released from jail since. Since April 2013, offenders with convictions in other states for crimes that have a "substantially similar" set of facts related to domestic violence can count as a partner or family member assault misdemeanor conviction. This helps to identify repeat domestic violence offenders and move their crimes to felonies. Yellowstone County Chief Deputy County Attorney Juli Pierce saw a need to change the language in 2013 because of cases like Parkhill's, where he had two prior domestic violence convictions out of state. Because the Washington convictions were under a different crime, Parkhill's convictions could not be stacked. That is why in 2012 his first felony partner or family member assault was reduced to a misdemeanor. Parkhill's three cases have three felony tampering charges attached, as Parkhill has called the two most recent victims and threatened them in an attempt to get them to recant their previous statements, according to court documents. Montana should brace itself for a battle over public lands this election cycle, a left-leaning public interest group cautioned Billings voters Wednesday. Pressure is building in Western states to transfer ownership of the federal lands to state governments, ultimately resulting in a selloff, according to the Center for Western Priorities. The Center used an armed militias takeover last winter of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon as a cautionary tale of a Western movement to take control of federal land. A Center for Western Priorities poll of the Montana voters revealed that most Montanans opposed the takeover orchestrated by anti-government protester Ammon Bundy. The group identified sympathizing with such extremism as sure way for political candidates to lose in November. Our poll results show that regardless of political party, voters in Montana and across the West favor balance and pragmatism and reject the extreme anti-public-lands agenda of the Bundy family and those who participated in the occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon earlier this year, said Jennifer Rokala, CWP director. Members of a six-member panel, including two Oregon Public Broadcasting reporters who covered that standoff, linked the Bundy militants frustration with federal management of public lands to a larger Western movement to transfer ownership of federal lands to the states. A turning point in the level of support for federal lands transfer seemed to be the shooting death of militant LaVoy Finicum, said Amanda Peacher, of Oregon Public Broadcasting. Finicum was shot by federal agents while reaching for his gun after a police chase during the standoff. Youre seeing echoes of this at the local level. Youre seeing echoes of this in some congressional action, actual bills that are being discussed in the Utah Legislature, Peacher said. But its not just fringe groups that echo some of the rhetoric of these groups. Lawmakers might not sympathize with the tactics of the militants, but have expressed sympathy for the militants concern about federal government overreach, Peacher said. Currently, in Oregon, the worries of federal over reach center on the Owyhee Canyonlands along Oregons border with Idaho and Nevada. The Owyhee monument concerns resembled worries six years ago in Central Montana of a rumored 2. 5 million acre monument designation from Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge on the Missouri river to the Grasslands National Park along the Canadian border. Mention of a possible Montana monument surfaced in a Department of Interior document obtained by then U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., though nothing ever came of it. President Barack Obamas Administration later told The Gazette the White House had no intentions of designating a monument in central Montana. Oregon Public Broadcasting journalist John Sepulvado called out Montana Republican legislator Jennifer Fielder for her involvement in the American Lands Council, which advocates for the transfer of federal lands to states. Fielder, who lives in Thompson Falls, became American Lands Council chief executive officer in February. The American Lands Council is, I would say, the political counterweight to the Center for Western Priorities, Sepulvado said. The American Lands Council is behind the lands transfer movement. Sepulvado asked for a show of hands from the 70 attendees at the CWP event to see how many thought the federal government was doing a good job managing federal lands. Maybe two dozen hands were raised. Most Montanans want to see their public lands preserved, and they agree with you that the management is good and it should continue, Sepulvado said. State Senator Jennifer Fielder disagrees strongly and she is in Montana and she actually has a study from 2013 that contradicts everything you just said. Conflicting surveys the CWPs and Fielders led people to conclude that theres just a great distrust in government, Sepulvado said. The concern about transferring federal land to the states is that ultimately states will find the cost of managing federal lands to be too expensive, at which point the land will be sold the private buyers and lost to public. The Volkswagen of Billings dealership has been busy answering customer questions about the recently announced $14.7 billion settlement over the car manufacturers cheating on emissions tests. Most questions fall into two categories, said Brandon Busse, general manager of Rimrock Auto Groups GMC and Cadillac dealership as well as Volkswagen of Billings: How much money will I get? and Do I have to get it fixed to get the money? Busse said details about the repairs and how Volkswagen owners can access settlement funds will be announced July 26. The parts needed to make the repairs reports vary that the number of diesel vehicles needing the repairs at the Billings dealership vary from 2,800 to about 5,000 should be made available this fall, he said. About 60 percent of the Volkswagens sold in Montana dealerships are diesel powered, he said. Volkswagen admitted last fall to installing software in nearly 500,000 diesel vehicles to limit emissions when the cars were being tested. The fix has not yet been determined and must still be approved by, among other regulators, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The availability of parts needed for the fix will determine how quickly customers vehicles can be serviced, Busse said. Volkswagen owners will have to decide whether Volkswagen will buy back their vehicle or have the company pay to repair it. In any case, VW will pay owners $5,100 to $10,000 for their trouble, depending on the age of the car. Owners will have until Sept. 1, 2018, to make their decision. Volkswagen of Billings is recruiting certified Volkswagen technicians to help with the needed repairs this fall, Busse said. And with sales down at the Billings Volkswagen dealership, some VW sales staff have moved over to the Rimrock Auto Group showroom to sell GMC and Cadillac cars and trucks there. The VW dealership is at 4400 King Ave. West. Rimrock Auto Group's GMC and Cadillac dealership is adjacent, at 840 S. Shiloh Road. We want to give our sales associates the opportunity to cross-sell, Busse said. The two operations, he said, are run as one big team. But news of the scandal has made a dent in Volkswagen sales, he said. It has been a grind, Busse said of taking care of the details related to the settlement. We are doing our best to do right for our customers and our associates. Its a national issues, but its had a negative impact on our brand. We are looking forward to the (July) announcement so that we can get this behind us. Sussex News Story Saved You can find this story in My Bookmarks. Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. Two years ago, Lacey Maloney and her husband, John, got a glimpse of what life is like for the poorest of the poor in Ethiopia, and it inspired the Billings couple to share that experience with others. The Compassion Experience, coming July 1-6 to Castle Rock Park in the Heights, will provide a glimpse of life through the eyes of an impoverished child. Three 20-minute tours will take visitors through scenarios in Uganda, the Dominican Republic and the Philippines. Visitors can visit any or all three of the displays. The event is free. Compassion International, an international child-advocacy ministry, will bring two semitrailers filled with more than 2,000 square-feet of interactive exhibits, Lacey Maloney said. People walk in, put on a headset and theyll literally walk into a childs room, which is their house, Maloney said. Then theyll walk through their school, their streets. Its children telling their stories. The exhibit also shows how Compassion International makes a difference in their lives. The event has the support of 21 area churches behind it. Maloney recommends the experience for both adults and children. She guarantees they will be touched by what they see. "I feel if people understood how desperate people are just to meet their daily needs, they would be moved to do something about it," she said. Through Compassion International, donors around the world lend support to children, which allows them to remain in their homes. Maloney and her husband pay $38 per month to support Fetire, a girl in Ethiopia. Fetires mother washes laundry for neighbors, earning about $19 a month. It if werent for Compassion, Maloney said, the girl probably would be forced to live in an orphanage. Because shes sponsored, she gets food, she gets an education and medical care, Maloney said. And she has a safe place to go three to five days a week through her local church, where shes mentored and taught general life skills. The Maloneys are members of Harvest Church in Billings. Like a number of other families in the Heights church, the couple decided to adopt a child from Ethiopia. Two years ago, they traveled to Addis Ababa to pick up their son, Abrahim, now 3. Since the couple could only spend two hours a day with the baby while waiting to bring him home, they decided to gain a first-hand knowledge of the country. When you drive on the street, you see people with grave injuries, people with babies begging," Maloney said. "There is so much poverty, it feels overwhelming. They also looked into the work of organizations that seek to help the poor. That included Compassion International, which they were familiar with since they already had been sponsoring Fetire for three years. "I prayed that if Compassion wasn't legitimate, that God would show me," Maloney said. But they were head and shoulders above the other organizations we experienced." Independent of their investigation, the couple met two young men in the country who are making an impact in Ethiopia. One is seeking an advanced degree and hopes to fight against corruption in the country, while the other man, Fekadu, started a ministry at the Korah Dump, where the most destitute of the city live. Only after they talked with the two men did they discover that both were sponsored as children by Compassion International. Theyre leaders doing phenomenal things for their people, Maloney said. Both of these men would never have gone to school if it werent for Compassion. Through Fekadu, they visited the dump where a community of unfortunates has sprouted. Maloney grew emotional as she talked about a man there who was dying of AIDS and a mother who had only recently given birth to an infant, which she showed off to the couple. I kept thinking 'they have no voice,'" Maloney said. If they had resources to help each other, they would. It inspired her to speak up for people who couldnt. That spurred her and John to begin work on bringing the Compassion Experience to Billings, to let others know how they might help. Americans are the wealthiest people in the world, Maloney pointed out. They, more than just about any country, have the means to help the worlds poor. It feels like the world is getting darker, Maloney said. This is an opportunity to make a difference. The risk of a crisis erupting between the U.S. and China because of a visit to Taiwan by the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, is high enough to warrant postponing if not outright cancelling the trip. Given the perceived costs of backing down in the face of Beijings threats, however, the odds of the trip going through are also high. Despite the short lead time ahead of the trip, policymakers on both sides can take small steps to reduce the chances that the trip will result in a Taiwan Strait crisis or even a military clash that neither side desires. On 28 July, Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping had a telephone call that was a positive first step toward preventing a crisis. Following the call, both sides issued statements signalling that they are taking a broader view of the bilateral relationship, thereby diminishing the significance of Pelosis potential visit. But Washington and Beijing can do more to minimise the chances for negative consequences, including having the two militaries communicate prior to the stopover if they have not done so already and carefully managing related optics. Whats happening with Speaker Pelosi and Taiwan? On 19 July, news of Pelosis potential trip to Taiwan, which, if it occurs, will take place in early August, was leaked to media. As speaker of the House, Pelosi is the senior-most official in the lower chamber of the U.S. Congress and second in the line of presidential succession. The visit, which remains unconfirmed, is meant to signal her support for Taiwan in the face of mounting concerns about Beijings more assertive stance toward the island. While visits by members of Congress and retired high-ranking officials are not new and have taken place at an increased tempo in recent years, Pelosis visit carries more significance because of her seniority. She would be the most senior U.S. official to visit Taiwan since Newt Gingrich, then the speaker, went in 1997. Congressional visits to Taiwan have traditionally served as a way to signal a members toughness on China. For Pelosi, this trip could be seen as capping off a long record as a China hawk and human rights advocate while she is still speaker a position she may have to relinquish following Novembers midterm legislative elections, in which the Democratic Party (to which she belongs) is expected to lose seats. Because the Washington-Taipei relationship is unofficial the U.S. does not recognise Taiwanese statehood the State Department issues restrictions on executive branch interactions with Taiwan. But this guidance does not apply to Congress, a branch of the U.S. government co-equal to the executive with its own powers to shape U.S. foreign policy. U.S. military does not think the trip is a good idea ... because of the attendant risks. While the Biden administration therefore does not have the authority to tell Pelosi whether or not to go forward with the trip, it can attempt to influence the speaker in her decision-making, as it already appears to have done. President Biden stated that the U.S. military does not think the trip is a good idea, and other senior officials have expressed opposition to the visit, both publicly and privately, because of the attendant risks. Nevertheless, a chorus of support from congressional members in both parties has grown louder by the day, increasing the political costs of shifting course at this late stage. Beijing emphatically opposes the trip. In statements from its foreign and defense ministries, it has threatened strong and resolute measures; on 28 July, Chinas defence ministry said, Action is the most powerful language. China has also reportedly issued clearer private warnings to the White House of a military response. Pelosi embarks on her journey to the region on 29 July, with stops scheduled for Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Malaysia. As of 29 July, it remains unclear whether she will also stop in Taiwan. What would be the significance of a potential trip? Pelosis trip, if it happens, would take place against the backdrop of intensifying strategic competition between the U.S. and China in which Taiwan has become the most contentious issue. For decades, Beijing and Washington have relied on overlapping, though not convergent, understandings of Taiwans status. Beijings position is that there is only one China of which Taiwan is a part. Its objective is unification with Taiwan an outcome it sees as critical to national rejuvenation and the Communist Party of Chinas legitimacy and it holds out the possibility of using military force to achieve this end. Under Washingtons one-China policy, the U.S. recognises the Peoples Republic of China as the sole, legitimate government of China, and acknowledges Beijings view that Taiwan is a part of China, but it adheres to the position that Taiwans status remains unresolved and must be settled peacefully, not unilaterally. Washington maintains unofficial relations with Taipei, governed by the terms of the Taiwan Relations Act, which states that U.S. policy includes providing Taiwan with defensive arms and maintaining the capacity of the U.S. itself to resist any resort to force or other form of coercion that would jeopardise the security, or the social or economic system, of the Taiwanese people. These two positions have allowed the U.S. and China to arrive at the modus vivendi under which they normalised relations in 1979 and that has helped manage tensions since. But these understandings and arrangements have begun to unravel under the stress of an ideologically imbued competition, and the perception on each side that the other is changing the status quo in the Taiwan Strait in threatening ways. Chinas rapid military modernisation and more assertive military posture in the region have heightened concerns in the U.S. about the threat that China poses to Taiwan. From Washingtons perspective, the big worries are a military balance of power that has shifted in Chinas favour and Beijings effectiveness in diplomatically and economically isolating Taiwan. Chinas rapid military modernisation and more assertive military posture in the region have heightened concerns in the U.S. about the threat that China poses to Taiwan, raising questions over whether a Chinese military invasion of Taiwan will occur in the near term and anxiety over its own ability to repel an invasion if it were to intervene. The Biden administration has, in what it sees as catching up to events, deepened Washingtons unofficial ties with Taipei, reframed the Taiwan problem as an international issue with regional security implications, worked to reduce Taiwans international isolation and begun to play a more proactive role in preparing Taiwans defence to deter more aggressive behaviour from Beijing. On the other hand, Beijing sees Washington as cynically employing the Taiwan issue as a pressure point in the larger bilateral competition. It believes that Washingtons deepening engagement with Taipei dangerously alters the status quo by strengthening Taiwans claims to de facto sovereignty and forestalling Chinas plans for unification. It has responded with more acts of military and economic muscle flexing that further confirm Washingtons suspicions, including flying military planes on a near-daily basis into Taiwans air defence identification zone (ADIZ) and arbitrarily banning Taiwanese imports. Though the U.S. has made clear its policy is not to support Taiwans independence, its posture has led China to accuse the U.S. of hollowing out its one-China policy commitment and to be increasingly concerned over how far the Biden administration will go to elevate Taiwans political status. What do political leaders in Beijing, Washington and Taipei think of the visit? Both Beijing and Washington increasingly appear to see Pelosis possible visit as a test of their resolve when it comes to Taiwan, and of how much friction they can stomach in the bilateral relationship. That the trip would take place in the lead-up to important domestic political events in both countries both adds to the perceived stakes and limits the room for compromise. In China, the 20th Party Congress, likely scheduled for November, is expected to see the re-anointment of President Xi in a break with the customary two-term limit. By most accounts, Xis grip on power appears solid, but he is likely to be concerned that failing to respond robustly may invite criticism from opposing factions on the eve of a key political transition. China also sees Pelosis visit to Taiwan as setting a dangerous precedent. Beijing fears it would open the door to visits by even more senior U.S. officials, and would help normalise exchanges between Taiwan and other countries. Moreover, the visit is yet more evidence for Beijing of what it sees as Washingtons backsliding on its commitments to China on Taiwan. It is true that Speaker Gingrich travelled to Taiwan two decades ago, but he was a Republican and thus not a member of the party in the White House, the Democrats of President Bill Clinton. Because Pelosi is a Democrat, Beijing appears to think that if the trip proceeds it signals some degree of support from the Democratic Biden administration, which China believes should be able to bring her in line with the White Houses policies. As for the U.S., the midterm elections loom large in political leaders calculations. There is a wide range of opinions in Washington as to whether the trip should go forward; some, including senior members of the Biden administration, argue that the risks of a trip outweigh the benefits. But raising such objections is politically fraught for members of Congress concerned about angering Pelosi and endangering their own policy priorities in the process. With polls predicting losses for the Democrats, and anti-China sentiment soaring in both parties, the perception that backing out of the trip would incur political costs is likely to play an outsized role in Pelosis ultimate decision. The same considerations will also likely deter the Biden administration from aggressively seeking to dissuade Pelosi from making the visit despite their clear opposition and concerns about the risks involved. From Taiwans perspective, the symbolic, political value of the trip is much higher than any concrete benefits. Finally, from Taiwans perspective, the symbolic, political value of the trip is much higher than any concrete benefits. Pelosis trip will not result in any economic or technical cooperation agreement; at most, the visit will help members of the U.S. Congress understand Taiwans views more clearly, which could influence discussions of bills related to Taiwanese defence capabilities. Nevertheless, Taipei is likely to see the importance of implementing Pelosis plans as defined less by the gains created by a single visit, and more by the accumulated benefits that arise from gradually normalising Taipeis exchanges with countries with whom it does not have official ties. (Taiwan has formal relations with only thirteen countries and the Holy See.) Over the last year, an increasing number of officials from the U.S. and Europe have visited a major political win for Taipei. Taiwan is also likely focused on the precedential implications of the decision that Pelosi faces. It opposes, on principle, taking decisions on the basis of Chinas objections, and likely worries that cancelling the visit because of Beijings threats could have a chilling effect on the momentum gained in recent years. Moreover, while cognisant of the risks of the trip, Taiwans population has also become somewhat inured to the military threat that Beijing poses. Because of the frequency of Chinese military demonstrations and acts of coercion such risks have become background noise in the daily lives of average Taiwanese. At the official level, Taipei has been studiously quiet on the issue, highlighting the uncomfortable position that it finds itself in wanting to pursue its own interests by welcoming Pelosis visit while remaining conscious of the hand wringing and rise in tensions the trip is causing. What are the specific ways in which a crisis could develop? The risks of escalation into a crisis are along two potential pathways that are not mutually exclusive. First, the trip will likely see the U.S. and Chinese militaries move into proximity to each other, as both governments have increasingly resorted to shows of military presence to demonstrate resolve. On 27 July, a U.S. aircraft carrier and its strike group entered the South China Sea and was steaming toward the Strait. Satellite images from 28 July showed Chinese warships following close behind. If Pelosis trip happens, the Chinese response will likely involve additional large-scale military activities in the Taiwan Strait. All these manouevres in close quarters could lead to dangerous encounters or, worse, an accidental collision, which could in turn spark further brinksmanship and escalation. Secondly, either of the two governments could radically misread the others actions as signalling malicious intent and respond disproportionately as a result. For instance, in late 2020, Beijing misinterpreted a series of U.S. actions as indicating a possible U.S. plan to attack Chinese outposts in the South China Sea. In response, U.S. officials used the Defense Telephone Link (discussed further below) to inform Beijing that there was no attack under way. The risk of dangerous misinterpretation is particularly high now because of growing levels of distrust in the bilateral relationship and the low frequency of dialogue below the leader level. What considerations will shape Chinas response? How high tensions rise and whether the trip catalyses a crisis in large part hinges on how China responds. Beijings calculus will be shaped by a number of objectives that pull in different directions. Two of Chinas objectives will lead it to favour a response that represents a clear escalation over the actions it has previously taken. First, Beijing wants to send a sharp message that can deter further incremental departures from what it sees as the status quo or what it refers to as provocative salami slicing by Washington and Taipei. Secondly, Xi will want to appear strong before a domestic audience at a time when the country faces the forthcoming 20th Party Congress. With slowing economic growth, continuing COVID-19 woes and flashes of popular discontent, the leadership can ill afford to look weak in the face of what is viewed by nationalists as U.S. bullying. In 2012, the strength of Chinas response to Japans purchase of the disputed Diaoyu/Senkaku islands which surprised Tokyo and significantly escalated bilateral tensions can be partly attributed to the timing of the purchase right before the 18th Party Congress. At the time, many in Beijing were concerned that an overly weak response to Tokyo would show other governments they could take advantage of China ahead of future party congresses, when Beijing is most distracted. Public official messaging promising a muscular response also means that Beijing will have to follow through in some visible way. Beijing will still prefer to avoid a significant crisis. But there are also countervailing considerations. Beijing will still prefer to avoid a significant crisis, much less one that could spiral into a costly if not cataclysmic military conflict. While the 20th Party Congress will require a show of strength, the leaderships priorities remain domestic politics and a relatively stable external environment. Beijing is also likely attuned to the reality that if it goes too far, it will strengthen hardline voices in Washington that want to take more drastic measures to demonstrate U.S. support for Taiwan and might rally more international support for Taiwans cause. Against this backdrop, China is unlikely to respond in a way that directly targets U.S. military assets or increases the chances of a military confrontation. The dangerous intercept of a U.S. reconnaissance plane by a Chinese fighter jet in 2001 resulted in an unintended collision, the death of the Chinese pilot and months of heightened political tensions. A much more antagonistic relationship today means that the capacities of the two governments to prevent an accidental collision from escalating rapidly into a crisis are much lower. Therefore, despite calls from former Global Times editor Hu Xijin for the Chinese air force to escort Pelosis flight to Taiwan into the islands air space, and warnings that Chinese fighter jets might prevent the speakers plane from landing, the Chinese authorities are unlikely to act in such an escalatory fashion. Still, because Chinas military presence around Taiwan has increased since late 2020 when Taiwan began publishing figures of the number of Chinese military planes entering its ADIZ Beijing will have to select a response that visibly rises above the already high baseline of activity. Another reference point could be its response to the last crisis in the Taiwan Strait, which took place in 1995-1996, as a result of then Taiwan President Lee Teng-huis visit to the U.S. In response, China recalled its ambassador to the U.S. and staged a series of military exercises between July 1995 and March 1996, including short-range ballistic missile tests that landed 56km off of Taiwans two commercial ports, in Keelung and Kaohsiung, disrupting commercial shipping. The U.S in turn dispatched two carrier strike groups through the Taiwan Strait. In recent years, Beijing has increasingly responded to visits by high-ranking U.S. officials by sending military planes across the Taiwan Strait median line. The line is an unofficial military boundary first drawn in 1954 by the U.S. to prevent conflict between Taiwan and China, and that continued to be tacitly respected by both until Beijing rejected its existence in September 2020. Unlike flights into Taiwans ADIZ, median line crossings are much rarer, and reserved for developments that China finds particularly objectionable. China initiated crossings in August 2020 during a visit by the Trump Administrations secretary of health and human services, Alex Azar. When Under Secretary of State Keith Krach arrived in Taiwan one month later, in September, twelve Chinese aircraft crossed the median line 40 times over two days. Given the above, one possible response is that China sends large numbers of military aircraft and vessels across the median line and maintains their presence on the Taiwanese side of the line for a period of time. Such a move would further other objectives for Beijing, including diminishing the significance of the median line and expanding its presence across the Taiwan Strait. Chinas recent commission of a law enforcement vessel specifically for the Taiwan Strait and characterisation to U.S. officials that the Taiwan Strait is not international waters are possible indications that Beijing is looking to more proactively assert its claims of jurisdictional authority over the Strait. China could also stage multiple, joint exercises that are larger in scale and longer in duration than their predecessors. Beijing could as in the 1996 crisis conduct missile tests nearby. For instance, according to Taiwanese military analyst Chieh Chung from the National Policy Foundation, a think-tank affiliated with Taiwans opposition party, the Kuomintang, the Chinese military could test its DF-17 hypersonic ballistic missile, YJ-21 hypersonic anti-ship missile or DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missile in the vicinity of the Dongsha/Pratas islands. Since China has few other adversaries besides the U.S. against whom such sophisticated missiles would be useful in a conflict, the intended target of the signal would be clear. There are also non-military options that Beijing could use to register its displeasure, namely, sanctioning Speaker Pelosi (a tool increasingly used by China to express its objection to individual actors and entities). Because relations are already so bad, Beijing may be loath to recall Ambassador Qin Gang from Washington. How do the parties avoid a crisis? The risks presented by Speaker Pelosis potential visit are uncomfortably high, but a crisis is not inevitable. There are steps both sides can take to head one off. The strongest de-escalatory move would be for Pelosi to call off the visit or to postpone it until after the 20th Party Congress, when domestic pressures will likely be lower for the Chinese leadership. But political dynamics in Washington make a climbdown of any kind unlikely. Washington and Beijing will have to use the time they have to clearly and consistently signal their intentions. Applications & OS News CRN Exclusive: Microsoft Names 21-Year Veteran As New Global Channel Chief Joseph Tsidulko and Lindsey H. O'Donnell Share this Microsoft Thursday named Gavriella Schuster as its new global channel chief, where she is tasked with guiding tens of thousands of partners as they transition to a cloud solutions business model and tackle the massive Windows 10 upgrade cycle. Schuster, a 21-year Microsoft veteran who has been Microsoft's interim channel chief since Phil Sorgen stepped out of the role in May, was formally named corporate vice president for the Worldwide Partner Group for the Redmond, Wash.-based software giant. Ric Opal, vice president of Peters & Associates, a Microsoft partner based in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., cheered the new appointment, saying Schuster is "unquestionably committed, aggressive, and just no-nonsense in her approach" to the channel. "I think when [Schuster] took the role as general manager initially, she did a few things that were very smart," said Opal. "She sought to understand the landscape inside of Microsoft and the partner perspective there. She went on a mission to make that experience better for Microsoft's interactions with partners in a few different ways, including improving the partner portal and restructuring the [Microsoft Partner Network] competencies." [Related: CRN Exclusive: Microsoft's New Channel Chief On Windows 10 Channel Compensation, Partner Plans For Surface And Cloud Opportunities] Schuster takes over Microsoft's channel at a time of major transition and transformation. "There's more opportunity now than there has ever been for our partners, not only cloud and customers embracing cloud, but what customers are calling their No. 1 priority, which is their own digital transformation," Schuster said in an exclusive interview with CRN. As Microsoft customers increasingly look to technology to differentiate themselves in their respective markets, partners have the opportunity to "move from the back office to the front office," she said. That shift "probably more than four-fold increases the potential and addressable market," Schuster said. Schuster, whose appointment comes less than two weeks before Microsoft's annual Worldwide Partner Conference kicks off July 10 in Toronto, steps into the role at a time when many Microsoft partners are grappling with fallout from the free Windows 10 upgrade. In addition, partners are struggling to find their place in Microsoft's Surface go-to-market strategy after the company launched a membership service plan earlier this month that some partners fear will cut out the channel. Schuster was Sorgen's top lieutenant for more than two years in her role as general manager of Worldwide Partner Programs. Sorgen, who took the position of corporate vice president of the U.S. Enterprise and Partner Group, was her mentor for a decade, Schuster said. The leadership transition will not disrupt the continuity of the program and no other significant structural or management changes are expected, Schuster said. During her long tenure at Microsoft, the new channel chief gained experience in many divisions of the organization, including sales, product management and partner development. She's worked on licensing and go-to-market strategies for various products over the years. Schuster said Microsoft will continue to invest in helping partners move up the food chain from project services to managed services, taking advantage of cloud repeatability, scalability and the chance to build unique intellectual property they can disseminate to multiple customers. The epochal shift to subscription services and recurring revenue is happening under a structure imposed by the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program, which provides incentives for partners to bundle services, add value, and handle their own billing. Microsoft will share more figures describing channel buy-in to that program at next month's partner conference. A Microsoft representative told CRN the company now has more than 10,000 partners in the CSP program -- a higher number than the company anticipated. "The value CSP provided was it was this vehicle that suddenly helped a lot of our partners understand how you think differently about the service you deliver to your customer," Schuster said. Many of those newly minted Cloud Solution Providers are starting to add Azure services to their portfolios to complement their Office 365 practices, she said. Azure, as a platform on which partners can implement business intelligence, analytics and database solutions, lends itself even better than the Software-as-a-Service productivity suite to selling through the CSP program, she said. As for the migration to Windows 10, Microsoft is trying to help partners with back-end migration tools and systems that smooth the transition to the new operating system. And the new model of Windows-as-a-Service opens up opportunities to manage customer environments after the initial engagement, she said. But partners will have to wait until the Worldwide Partner Conference to hear more on that front, she said. Channel programs News Dell To Pay $25M To Settle Spat With T. Rowe Price Over 2013 Buyout Matt Brown Share this Dell will pay T. Rowe Price Group a reported $25 million to settle claims that the Round Rock, Texas-based IT giant shortchanged investors when it was taken private about three years ago. Thanks to a T. Rowe Price voting foul-up, the settlement is a fraction of the $200 million Dell may have been on the hook for. The $25 million settlement came down Wednesday, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Dell declined to comment to CRN about the settlement. [Related: Dell Promises 'Seamless' Deal Registration For Partners On First Day After EMC Merger] That settlement comes as Dell draws closer to its more than $62 billion acquisition of data storage giant EMC. That transaction is expected to close before the end of October, and Dell has been securing financing and selling off assets to make the deal work. Dell plans to take on as much as $49.5 billion in debt in order to close the deal, and has a plan to pay down that debt aggressively in the months after the closing. Michael Pearson, president of DSA Technologies, an Elk Park, Calif.-based Dell solution provider, said that while "$25 million is not a small amount to me personally," he doesnt consider it "significant" in the scope of the transaction. "It is not a concern at all," he said. "The larger issue is the debt service that Dell will take on once the EMC transaction is complete," said Stephen Monteros, vice president of business development and strategy at Sigmanet, an Ontario, Calif.-based solution provider that works with both Dell and EMC. "EMC has a good partner program, and we worry that programs and incentives could be slashed to help pay down the debt. I know Dell is sensitive to this, so we just have to see what happens." In May, a Delaware judge ruled Dell Chairman and CEO Michael Dell and private equity firm Silver Lake Partners had underpaid investors by about $6 billion when they took the company private in 2013 for $13.75 a share, or about $25 billion. T. Rowe Price, a mutual fund company, opposed the $13.75 a share transaction publicly, but then voted its shares in favor the deal. Voting in favor of the deal disqualified the firm from seeking an "appraisal" in court. The suit was brought by investment funds about two years ago as a so-called appraisal case. The appraisal strategy allows investors to realize a price increase in a transaction by voting against it and later arguing in court that the deal was worth more than what the buyers paid. Evanston, Ill.-based hedge fund Magnetar Capital, which also argued in court that Dell and Silver Lake had underpaid investors, was awarded an extra $3.87 a share plus interest, or about $15 million. Dell has an opportunity to appeal that decision. Security is important. Companies and organizations of all sizes know that. It consumes boardroom discussions and captures headlines. There is no dispute. The challenge (and friction) centers on what to do about it. Where do we start? And why? Have you considered or adopted the CIS Critical Security Controls? Tony Sager of CIS The controls arent new. Often cited, I wanted to explore their value in helping us bring people together and guide action. To learn more, I spoke with Tony Sager, Senior Vice President & Chief Evangelist Center for Internet Security (Company LinkedIn, @cisecurity). Tony leads the development of the CIS Critical Security Controls, a worldwide consensus project to find and support technical best practices in cybersecurity. Tonys experience includes 34 years in Information Assurance at the (U.S.) National Security Agency. In 2001, Tony championed the release of NSAs security guidance to the public. He also expanded NSAs role in the development of open standards for security. I met Tony a few years ago on a broad-ranging security panel. Immediately impressed with his knowledge and approach then, our recent conversation was a delight. If you get the chance to learn from or speak with him, take it. Youll be better as a result. In the meantime, check out the insights he shared in our five questions together. You point out that companies care, but they have a few struggles we need to collectively address. Whats going on? As a career-long defender, todays situation seems very odd to me. We have more security tools and technology, training and certifications, vulnerability and threat intelligence feeds, security frameworks, etc. than ever in our history. Yet we seem to be getting worse, or at least improving more slowly than the Bad Guys are improving. And the problem is getting more complex. New technology means that our data and applications are not under our direct control, and complicated (and changeable) business relationships mean that our risk is shared across many parties. I think most of us are overwhelmed by what Ive called the security Fog of More: more guidance, warnings, advice, products, marketing, training, certifications, and so forth than we can usefully absorb - often conflicting and all delivered in specialized techno-speak. And coming up fast are regulators, lawmakers, insurers, auditors, lawyers - all the social forces trying to bring order to chaos. In such a world, every enterprise has more in common than is different, and we should use that approach to identify and drive collective action. We all face a common soup of vulnerabilities, threats, and attacks, whether we know it or not, either directly, or thru one of our supply chain partners. Therefore were better off sharing insight, labor and action on solutions to these problems. Thats the philosophy behind the CIS Critical Security Controls, and all of the programs at the Center for Internet Security. Where did the Top 20 Controls get started? I spent the first 35 years of my career at NSA in the business of security testing for defense, from cryptography, through design, product, and operational testing (e.g., Red and Blue Teams). This gave me the chance to see a LOT of failures - to observe how things break, or can be made to break. In the very late 1990s, our teams started to translate this knowledge into documented security guidance for our DoD and Intelligence Community customer base, in the form of the NSA Security Guides. But it was becoming very clear that the DoD was moving to a more powerful but complex model of coalition warfighting as well as dependency on many commercial suppliers, shippers, and other partners. In other words, there was no simple network perimeter to be defended, only a complex set of fast-changing mission and business partnerships. In other words, DoD security could not improve without improvement by many others. So in 2001, we got permission to release the NSA Security Guides to the public through www.nsa.gov. My basic pitch to management? We will create more positive change by giving stuff away than by trying to be in charge. What became the Top 20 Critical Security Controls flowed from that same approach - how can we prioritize and help enterprises focus on the most important and effective steps to stop attacks? In about 2008, a handful of us created a simple 2 page list for some key friends in the DoD - if you dont know what to do, heres where to start. Security professionals love to brainstorm all the bad things that MIGHT happen, we chose to focus on what we KNEW was happening and how to prevent it. The list was picked up by the SANS Institute and turned a world-wide community volunteer project. After I retired from NSA in 2012, I wound up taking over the project, and with the support of SANS and several other companies moved it into an independent, non-profit home, now the Center for Internet Security. Most recognize the controls as solid guidance, but then struggle with getting started. Where do we start? Where do we start? is one of the most frequent questions I heard when I began speaking in public in 2001. For me, the answer was always about visibility- what devices are in your enterprise, what software is running, how is it being operated (patched and configured)? If you dont know what you have, it is hard to defend it. These kinds of things provide the basic operational foundation for understanding your environment and where it is vulnerable, spotting the Bad Guys, deploying defenses, and even recovering from the inevitable problems. Theres a lot more to do for effective defense, but these are the best starting points. More recently, we have emphasized management of the people who can change or bypass your security controls (administrative privilege). We have codified these ideas in the Top 5 of the CIS Controls. Also note that these ideas are not unique to security, but are just good operational IT management practices. In a recent survey of adopters of the CIS Controls, we found that enterprises overwhelmingly endorsed the first few Controls as the most valuable for defense. But they also highlighted them as very challenging to implement, and so were working to provide more specific help on implementing and prioritizing action. Were also reaching out to solution vendors so that their products and services are tuned to the CIS Controls and the most important problems to be solved. The controls arent new. People like them, but then struggle to get them implemented. Do we have evidence they work? There arent any straightforward algorithmic answers in cyber defense, but theres lots of evidence. For example, any large scale data-driven study of Internet attacks reaches a similar conclusion: the vast majority of attacks (in the 80-90% range) are enabled by the failure or lack of basic defenses. This is why we work with numerous companies in the threat intelligence marketplace to map summaries of what they are tracking (like the Symantec Internet Security Threat Report, the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report) directly into the CIS Controls. Similarly, the US-CERT attributes 85% of the security incidents they manage to the absence or failure of the same 5 defensive actions. Youll find similar data and thinking behind projects like the DHS Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM) Program, the Australian governments Top 35 list, and the NSA Top 10 Information Assurance Mitigations. What can a security leader do to get started down the path of encouraging their organization to move in this direction? Its not about the list. I often say this about the CIS Controls. You can find great lists of things to do on every virtual cybersecurity street corner, from abstract to specific, from simple to overwhelmingly large and complex, and from every possible source. Most of them are just repeating the same ideas over and over. In fact, we provide cross-mappings from the CIS Controls to every framework we can find, like ISO, COBIT, PCI, NIST, etc. Were not trying to create another competing regulatory or compliance framework. Were trying to help you succeed in a very complex problem. In my experience, its hard to have an original thought or a unique problem in security. So a foundational part of the CIS model is to create and sustain communities that allow security leaders to help each other identify problems, barriers, and solutions together. Theres a rapidly growing ecosystem of references, resources, tools, and consultants building up around the CIS Controls. For example, youll find them referenced in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, and recommended by the California Attorney Generals 2015 Data Breach Report, the National Governors Association, and numerous other places. Over the next few months, well also be providing you with more help to prioritize and measure your implementation of the CIS Controls, new complementary content to help you implement them, a collaborative workspace for sharing ideas, and better pointers to resources and working aids (like mappings, tools, use cases, etc.). So the CIS Controls are more of a movement than a list - one that you can join, contribute to and learn from. And to be successful, a security leader must also be a corporate leader - executive leadership, HR, legal, IT Operations, etc. all have vital roles and the CIS Controls provide you with an opportunity to bring all of their actions into alignment. Tracking down a cyberbreachs origins is a painstaking process that pays off in the end. As the AT&T report Cybersecurity Insights notes, an incident response plan detailing the participants, processes, and lines of reporting following a serious attack can help mitigate the impact of a breach. Incident response also involves an established sequence of steps, and any attempt to rush the process can make a bad situation even worse. When it comes to the actual work, whats clear is that patience is a virtue. But the task is complicated by organizational challenges, where different teams involved in the process can wind up working at cross purposes because of conflicting priorities. While forensic examiners seek to understand how the intruders compromised the network, systems administrators and security executives are more keen on plugging the breach and then getting the enterprise back online as soon as possible. If they take shortcuts, the danger is that valuable clues about the attackers can get destroyed. Haste also harms the organization in other ways. If the breach hasnt been rooted out, prematurely giving the all-clear signal fosters a false sense of security. But the organization will be at risk if the intruders are still lurking on the network and are free to read employee communications or carry out further thefts. Even if you think the breach is fixed, there may still be other network vulnerabilities that intruders can exploit - especially if they managed to access different areas of the network. Step by step In the immediate aftermath of a successful attack, the investigation should focus on identifying the breach with an eye toward containing the damage. The steps should be outlined in the organizations cyber incident response plan, which functions as the playbook. Throughout the process, make sure to keep the following in mind: Coordinate the teams assigned to the investigation and eradication of the breach. Each side must be aware of the others efforts in order to conduct a thorough process of evidence collection and analysis. Include computer forensic examiners or people with proper training who can reliably record the evidence and preserve it for later review. Keep a record of the system at the time of the incident to share with the organizations lawyers, outside investigators, or law enforcement agencies. System administrators should review their log information to identify the identity of the malware and determine whether any stolen data was transferred to a location controlled by the attacker. An examination may reveal whether anyone had tampered with files, system settings, or permissions. Dont assume this was a one-off attack. Unlike yesterdays prototypical solo hacker, the constellation of potential threats nowadays includes organized criminal groups, state-sponsored actors, and politically motivated hacktivists. All are sophisticated and experienced at getting past network defenses. Maintain close system monitoring to detect any anomalous activity for signs that the intruder is trying to reenter the network. Examine the history of threatening communications prior to the incident. The same goes for any suspicious emails or other similar requests for information. This might go more slowly than some would like but as the AT&T report points out, the ability to quickly mitigate the effects of a breach requires a strategic, dynamic, fully tested incident response plan. And it means practicing what you preach. Charles Cooper has covered technology and business for the past three decades. All opinions expressed are his own. AT&T has sponsored this blog post. The discussion around healthcare security usually centers on concerns about privacy and the need to secure patient data. But research from one infosec consultancy finds that in the haste to comply with increased regulations and rules for protecting patient information, hospitals are overlooking security holes when it comes to human health. Vulnerabilities in health equipment, both active (for example, pacemakers), and passive (e.g., vital-sign monitors), mean that hackers could potentially harm (or kill) a patient staying at a healthcare facility. With many security teams at hospitals understaffed and looking for resources, this has the potential to be a large problem that may take years to fix. In the latest episode of Security Sessions, I spoke with Ted Harrington from Independent Security Evaluators. The consulting and research firm recently conducted a two-year study that looked at a wide variety of security issues that hospitals face, and the results are eye opening. Among the highlights of the video, which you can watch below, are the following sections: 1:02 An overview of the Securing Hospitals study 2:50 Why patient health security isnt being safeguarded compared with patient data and privacy. 05:51 If a hacker hasnt accomplished this yet, are we just spreading fear, uncertainty and doubt? 07:30 In what areas are hospitals falling short, and why do those shortcomings exist? 10:00 Plans and recommendations for health care groups on how to be more pro-active on the issue. WASHINGTON The tensions festering in the Saudi royal family became clear in September, when Joseph Westphal, the U.S. ambassador to Riyadh, flew to Jeddah to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, nominally the heir to the throne. But when he arrived, he was told that the deputy crown prince, a brash 30-year-old named Mohammed bin Salman, wanted to see him urgently. The ambassador was redirected. The United States and the crown prince swallowed their embarrassment. Palace intrigue is a staple of monarchies, but it is impossible to overstate how out of character such a generational power play was for the desert kingdom. Robert Lacey, in his classic 1981 book, "The Kingdom," described the tradition of deference that has held the Saudi royal family together through feast and famine: "Deference to elders is one of the Al-Saud's inviolable ground rules, the best corset they know to discipline the outward thrust of so many assembled appetites." Not anymore: Starting in January 2015 with the accession of King Salman, Saudi Arabia has been shaken by the bold reform campaign of his son, known at home and abroad by his initials, "MBS." By outmaneuvering and sometimes defying his elders, the young deputy crown prince has turned the politics of this conservative, sometimes sclerotic monarchy upside down. MBS is the kind of prince that Machiavelli might conjure. He's a big, fast-talking young man who dominates a room with the raw, instinctive energy of a natural leader. But his hardball tactics have offended some Saudis, especially his rebuffs of Mohammed bin Nayef, his elder at 56 and his nominal superior. If "Game of Thrones" were set in the Arabian desert, it might have a plot like what has developed in Saudi Arabia over the past 18 months. Anonymous letters have circulated; whispering campaigns have swirled around the deputy crown prince and his rivals. President Obama has advised his aides to avoid any appearance of taking sides. But the president's White House meeting on June 17 with MBS, treating him almost like a head of state, may have cast an implicit vote of support for the reformer's agenda. How did this Saudi political battle begin? Less than a week after the death of King Abdullah on Jan. 23, 2015, the new King Salman issued decrees that altered the balance of power in the kingdom. He removed two of Abdullah's sons as governors of Riyadh and Mecca, respectively. Prince Bandar bin Sultan, the wily former ambassador to Washington, was ousted as national security adviser. Salman's lightning decrees also installed Mohammed bin Nayef as deputy crown prince behind then-Crown Prince Muqrin. And perhaps more important, Salman's son was named defense minister and chairman of a new Council of Economic and Development Affairs. MBS had his hands on both the military and economic levers of power. "All this was planned like clockwork," says one Saudi who watched the maneuvers from Riyadh. "It was a bloodless coup." MBS took a giant step up the ladder in April 2015. A royal decree dumped Muqrin as crown prince; Mohammed bin Nayef moved up to the No. 2 spot; and MBS was installed as No. 3. This change in the official succession plan upset some members of the royal family. Although Muqrin was widely seen as an unsuitable potential king, Saudis worried about the precedent, and the possibility the succession plan might be rejiggered again to install MBS. A decisive blow came in early September when Salman, at his son's urging, fired Saad al-Jabri, who for years had been Mohammed bin Nayef's closest adviser. Can the fragile balance last, with the crown prince and deputy coexisting under an elderly, ailing king? If Salman should leave the scene, would the crown prince succeed him, as the current succession plan provides? Or would MBS try to jump the queue, with acquiescence from a pliant Allegiance Council, which ratifies succession? Saudis don't know the answers. The Obama administration, while careful not to take sides in the palace intrigue, seems to agree that the MBS reform agenda offers a chance for the breakthrough that Saudi Arabia needs. But U.S. officials hope the impulsive and sometimes arrogant young prince doesn't run so fast that he falls over and takes the kingdom's political stability down with him. Aside from being one of my favorite shows on HBO, Silicon Valley has long been the epicenter of technology and innovation. When two female West Point cadets, Hannah Whisnant and Jayleene Perez, had the opportunity to intern at Vidder this summer, they went west, where they were again outnumbered by men in their surroundings but not in their skills. From left to right: Hannah Whisnant, General Dan Balough and Jayleene Perez. Every summer West Point cadets are sent across the globe for internships and cultural immersion missions. Instead of joining their classmates on trips overseas, Whisnant and Perez, West Point juniors from the department of electrical engineering and computer science, went to experience startup life and sharpen their cyber security skills with real-world experience. The U.S. Military Academy sent them to Vidder headquartered in Silicon Valley to learn about key cyber security technologies such as cryptography, public key infrastructure and software defined perimeter, as well as hacking methods. The cadets have taken advantage of the chance to learn about the software-defined perimeter that Vidder offers, where they had a somewhat unique perspective as outsiders possessing some technical knowledge but without deep familiarity with Vidder's architecture. Their goal was to understand the product, then offer feedback that can be used to create better resources for potential clients. Whisnant said, "This internship at Vidder has been a great opportunity for me to see some of the concepts I've learned in the classroom applied in the real world. I've taken a class in cryptography, but I had no idea what the practical requirements of creating public key infrastructure were." Whisnant enjoyed interacting with the people at Vidder. "Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and helpful thus far, and I'm beginning to understand the wide range of skills required to make a company like this run. There is a lot to learn from all of them," she said. Perez, who decided to attend West Point to be a part of something bigger than herself in hopes of being able to influence peoples lives in a positive way, expressed the same sentiment about her experience. Having a strong interest in hacking, Perez said, "I am excited to have been interning at Vidder. I had little knowledge of cyber security, but I have been learning from people who are experts in this subject. This experience has helped me in understanding the classes I should take for my major and my future career." While the women were outnumbered in gender, they were never keenly aware of this fact in their day-to-day experiences because the expectation, as it is at West Point, was that everyone will work hard and contribute to the team. Both cadets credit the many people they met who were directly involved with the implementation of Vidder's product. "Each person at Vidder has their own area of expertise, and has been very generous in sharing their knowledge with us," said Whisnant. Among the people she noted were Gabor Lengyel, the cryptographer who taught them about the implementation of public key infrastructure; Dennis Griffin, who introduced them to the basics of ethical hacking and tools such as Nmap and Metasploit; and Anurag Dave, Vidder's expert on the internet of things. While friends went to Washington D.C., South Africa, Japan, Morocco, France, Germany, and many other countries and states for their internships, which varied from assisting in a hospital, to working with the CIA, and even working with Boeing on aircraft, the cadets chose Silicon Valley because it is a hub of innovation in America. As far as technology and software development goes, there is no better place to be. As far as celebrating the Fourth of July weekend, the Bay Area will hopefully prove to be just as memorable. LizardStresser, the DDoS malware for Linux systems written by the infamous Lizard Squad attacker group, was used over the past year to create over 100 botnets, some built almost exclusively from compromised Internet-of-Things devices. LizardStresser has two components: A client that runs on hacked Linux-based machines and a server used by attackers to control the clients. It can launch several types of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, execute shell commands and propagate to other systems over the telnet protocol by trying default or hard-coded credentials. The code for LizardStresser was published online in early 2015, giving less-skilled attackers an easy way to build new DDoS botnets of their own. The number of unique LizardStresser command-and-control servers has steadily increased since then, especially this year, reaching over 100 by June, according to researchers from DDoS mitigation provider Arbor Networks. The DDoS bot is very versatile, with versions for the x86 CPU architecture as well as ARM and MIPS, which are commonly used on embedded device. IoT devices are perfect for DDoS bots, because they run some familiar variant of Linux, have limited resources so they don't have malware detection or advanced security features and, when they're connected directly to the Internet, they're typically not subjected to bandwidth limitations or firewall filtering. The reuse of software and hardware components is very common in the IoT world as it simplifies and lowers the cost of development. Because of this, default credentials that were used to initially manage one device may later make their way into entirely different classes of devices, the Arbor Networks researchers said in a blog post. IoT botnets can be very powerful. Arbor Networks investigated two of them that were used to launch attacks against banks, telecommunications companies and government organizations from Brazil, as well as three gaming companies from the U.S. One of the attacks peaked at over 400Gbps and 90 percent of the hosts from which the malicious traffic originated responded over HTTP with a Web-based interface called NETSurveillance WEB. "Doing some more research, the NETSurveillance WEB interface appears to be generic code used by a variety of Internet-accessible webcams," the Arbor Networks researchers said. "A default password for the root user is available online, and telnet is enabled by default." This is not the first time that IoT botnets have been used to launch DDoS attacks. Researchers from Web security firm Sucuri just recently reported DDoS attacks launched from a botnet of over 25,000 CCTV cameras and digital video recorders. The U.S. Congress has a small window of time to stop proposed changes in federal court rules that will expand the FBI's authority to hack into computers during criminal investigations, a senator said Thursday. The rule changes allowing expanded FBI searches of computers, approved by the Supreme Court in April, go into effect in December unless Congress votes against them, and getting Congress to move in a contentious election year will be difficult, said Senator Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat and a critic of the changes. "Inaction is easy," said Wyden, sponsor of a bill to roll back the proposed changes. "Inaction is what Congress does best." The proposed changes to Rule 41 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure would allow the FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies to obtain warrants to hack into computers even when they don't know where those computers are located. The changes would, therefore, allow federal judges for the first time to issue search warrants outside their jurisdictions. So when law enforcement doesn't know the location of a device, "whether its in this country or abroad, it will be allowed to hack into that device," Wyden said during a speech at the New American Foundation's Open Technology Institute. In addition, the proposed changes, in an effort to better investigate and shut down botnets, would allow the FBI to get warrants to access computers the agency suspects have been compromised by hackers. Those proposed changes could have major consequences, Wyden said. "This would be a massive expansion of government hacking, jeopardizing our liberty," he said. "Theres no telling what kind of impact secretive government malware could have on our devices or the networks that run our hospitals, electrical grids, and transportation systems." Still, there are good reasons for the rule changes, said Orin Kerr, a professor at the George Washington University Law School and a member of the Advisory Committee on Rules of Criminal Procedure, the panel that recommended the changes to the Supreme Court. Criminal suspects are embracing anonymizing technology like Tor and VPNs, meaning law enforcement investigators sometimes don't know the location of the computers used in online crimes. Without the rule changes, anonymized computers would be exempt from any law enforcement searches, Kerr said. In a 2013 Texas case, a judge said he couldn't issue a warrant for a computer protected with an anonymizing service, Kerr said. "The implication being no judge can issue a search warrant because no one knows where the search is going to occur," he added. "The rule shouldn't be that no [warrant] can be obtained." On one level, the motivation for organizations to invest in cybersecurity tools, staff, and processes couldnt be more obvious: the organizations want to prevent cyberattacks from succeeding. It turns out, however, that security measures may be able to drive additional business benefits beyond simply countering hackers, online criminals, and other bad actors. The 2016 AT&T/IDC Global Cybersecurity Readiness Index study suggests that companies with the most mature and comprehensive security profiles can expect to outpace their peers in revenue and profit growth as well as several other business metrics. In the study, more than 800 IT and line of business executives across multiple industry sectors were surveyed. A focus group of CIOs and CISOs from enterprises with more than 1,000 employees provided supplemental data. Some of the survey results are included in a recent AT&T Cybersecurity Insights report. What characteristics make one organizations cybersecurity readiness superior to anothers? The AT&T/IDC study identified a number of traits that reflect this readiness, and grouped organizations into four maturity categories. Those categories, from least to most cybersecurity ready, are: Passive, Reactive, Proactive, and Progressive. Progressive organizations share a number of characteristics, led by a high level of C-suite interest and engagement in security matters. CEOs and other executives at progressive companies understand the cyberthreats their organizations face and are closely involved in setting and regularly reviewing security measures and strategies. In fact, 60% of the survey respondents deemed to work at progressive companies said their senior executives require daily security status updates. Thats compared to just 14% of respondents at passive organizations saying the same. Progressive companies also know their own limits. This category of companies, for example, is much more likely than less-cybersecurity-ready organizations to enlist the services of third-party security experts as a supplement to their in-house security teams. Other companies may be prone to underestimating the threats they face, while overestimating their own capabilities to deal with those threats. On another measure, progressive organizations dont just focus on post-breach diagnosis and response. Theyre much more likely than others to proactively mount readiness assessments and diagnosis planning efforts. Surprising payoffs After AT&T/IDC categorized the cybersecurity readiness of its survey respondents, it looked at several business parameters. That exercise suggests that security investments and preparations can have a positive ripple effect across a number of business metrics. Companies ranked as progressive organizations, for example, experienced three-year revenue growth averaging 24%. At the other end of the cybersecurity readiness index, passive companies experienced only 6% growth over the same period. The same held true when it came to profitability. The three-year profit growth at progressive companies averaged 19.7%, compared to just 3.2% profit growth at passive companies. This trend even extended into the non-fiscal metrics. Among them: customer satisfaction increased by 22% over three years at progressive companies, but grew by just 2.3% at passive companies. Without a doubt, the main reason for investing in cybersecurity solutions, staffing, and services is to prevent catastrophic data loss or exposure and to maintain operational integrity. But companies that make security a priority from the C-suite down can expect to see benefits that go well beyond the central objective of their efforts. Dwight Davis has reported on and analyzed computer and communications industry trends, technologies, and strategies for more than 35 years. All opinions expressed are his own. AT&T has sponsored this blog post. Blockchain for entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector: challenges and opportunities - May 15, 2020 4:00 PM CEST Blockchain for Agriculture webinar Are you an entrepreneur in African, the Caribbean and Pacific countries and interested in blockchain? Do you want to know if and in which conditions you can leverage on blockchain to offer meaningful services to potential clients in the agricultural sector and beyond? This webinar organised by the Technical Centre for Agriculture and Rural Cooperation (CTA) in the framework its AgriHack and Blockchain projects, and in partnership with Blockchain Workspace in the Netherlands will discuss these questions. Apart from insights from three invited experts, experiences of an ACP entrepreneur investing in Blockchain will be shared. Other entrepreneurs from the audience may have the opportunity to briefly share their experiences as well. The session will be held in English only. With George Maina, founder of Shamba Records & Once Sync Limited (Kenya); Henk van Cann and Erwin Overstegen, both co-founder of the training firm Blockchain Workspace (bcws.io); and Ken Lohento (CTA) NORWALK Though they were far from the earshot of Washington, local politicians, volunteers and cancer researchers applauded from the confines of the Nowalk American Cancer Society building as Vice President Joe Biden concluded his passionate opening remarks at the CancerMoonshot Summit in Washington, D.C. The group gathered Wednesday morning at the only American Cancer Society-sponsored watch party in Connecticut, held at the state-of-the-art ACA facility in Norwalk, to watch the summit and discuss progress and local efforts toward finding a cure. State senators and representatives, including Bob Duff, Toni Boucher, Tony Hwang and Gail Lavielle joined dozens of volunteers and staff of the American Cancer Society in Connecticut to watch the speech regarding the federal governments enhanced commitment to funding cancer research. Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling said the event was a great representation of the increasing global commitment to cancer research and finding a cure. This is a comprehensive and bipartisan effort to increase funding for cancer research, Rilling said. Virtually everyone I know has been touched by cancer, whether its a relative, friend, themselves. There is a cure out there but we need to double, triple, quadruple our efforts. As the mayor of a town home to groundbreaking cancer research from multiple organizations, including Norwalk Hospital and the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Rilling said hes proud of the work being done here. We have so many people here who give up time and money to work toward a cure, Rilling said. We are a leader not only in Fairfield County, but in the state, when it comes to cancer research. Just this week, the American Cancer Society the largest nonprofit dedicated to cancer research announced it plans to double it funding for cancer research by 2020. Bryte Johnson, director of government relations for the American Cancer Society-Cancer Action Network, said the Moonshot Summit, though held in Washington, D.C., was a national event and is especially relevant at the state and local level where research is actively being completed. There are about 12 researchers here in Connecticut that are making groundbreaking progress in this realm, Johnson said. This could be the start of something huge. ... The cancer death rate is already down 20 to 25 percent since 1991, and this will put us that much closer to finding a cure. KKrasselt@hearstmediact.com; 203-354-1021; @kaitlynkrasselt Roylynn Rides Horse was beaten, strangled, doused with gasoline, set afire and left for dead. When she was found alive in a field on the Crow Reservation, the 28-year-old mother of six reportedly had burns on 45 percent of her body and severe frostbite on her legs. She died Tuesday in a Salt Lake City burn trauma hospital, after suffering from those horrific injuries for 72 days. The most appalling aspect of Rides Horses murder is that she is not the only one. In fact, brutality against Native American women is rampant. Native American women face murder rates that are more than 10 times the national average, Montana U.S. Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines said in a resolution they introduced Tuesday. Joined by Montana U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, the senators cited Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics: Homicide is the third leading cause of death among American Indian and Alaska Native women ages 10-24. Homicide is the fifth leading cause of death among these women ages 24-34. The Montana delegation proposed that Congress designate May 5, 2017, as National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Native Women and Girls. The lawmakers chose that date because it is the birthday of Hanna Harris. The circumstances of the murder of Harris, a 21-year-old Billings West High graduate and mother of a 10-month-old son, are chillingly similar to the crimes against Rides Horse. Harris went missing early on the morning of July 4, 2013. Security video from a Lame Deer convenience store showed her driving away with Eugenia Ann Rowland, 42, in the front passenger seat. The investigation determined that Rowlands husband, Garrett Sidney Henderson Wadda, 36, was in the back seat. The victim and her killers had been drinking. Harris family reported her missing and a frantic search commenced. It ended on July 8, 2013, when the womans dead body was found on the rodeo grounds of the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Rowland and Wadda were convicted in connection with Harris death and sentenced to federal prison. Rides Horse left a bar with Angelica Jo Whiteman, 23, and Dimarzio Swade Sanchez, 18, among others. Whiteman and Sanchez have been arrested and initially charged with assault pending probable federal grand jury indictment for homicide. In the many months between Harris murder and the arrests, her family and about 200 supporters marched through Lame Deer demanding justice for victims of unsolved murders on American Indian Reservations. While the Rides Horse attackers were still at large, her family, along with some Crow tribal leaders and Montana state lawmakers marched to draw attention to the lack of information available on the case and what they saw as the slow pace of law enforcement action. The day before Rides Horse died, some of her family members met with Crow leaders and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Chief of Police to lobby for more police officers and faster response time. They heard from Police Chief Jose Figueroa that he wants to put more officers on patrol, but BIA processes take about a year to approve each new hire, even after the officer is trained. Figueroa suggested cross-deputizing officers from local departments to maximize the effectiveness of limited staffing. Theres no single solution to violence in Montanas rural reservation communities. Vast distances, cultural differences, multiple jurisdictions and inadequate resources challenge effective law enforcement. Yet Montanans living on the reservations want and deserve to be safe. Tribal leaders from Lame Deer to Crow Agency to Fort Peck have spoken out this year against the drug trafficking that infests their communities and precipitates much violent crime. The Gazette has criticized federal justice agencies for being so tight with public information that people dont know what crime is going on in their own communities. Tester, Zinke and Daines are right to push for greater public awareness. Thats a crucial step in marshaling the resources and changes needed to improve public safety. STAMFORD A lawsuit in Trumbull has revealed something Stamford taxpayers should know. They have been reimbursing the Board of Educations longtime facilities contractor for cellphone and car expenses, health and dental coverage, and liability and workers compensation insurance. The reimbursements, according to documents in the Trumbull case that were obtained by The Advocate, have amounted to more than $40,000 a year. Its not clear whether the reimbursements were included in the school boards annual six-figure payments to AFB Construction Management, or were paid on top of it. Its also not clear why a private contractor would be compensated for such expenses. School officials wont comment. A city attorney said they cant because AFB is under FBI and Stamford police investigation for possible extortion. Assistant Corporation Counsel Burt Rosenberg said by email that because of two pending criminal investigations concerning AFB Construction Management, originating from both federal and City of Stamford law enforcement authorities, (the) Office of Legal Affairs has been requested by federal law enforcement authorities not to release any documents while the investigations are pending, until further notice. So school board members, who are scheduled to vote Tuesday on whether to renew AFBs contract for 2016-17, cant discuss the reimbursements. But information about them was included in documents provided to attorneys for Trumbull First Selectman Tim Herbst, who is being sued by AFB President Al Barbarotta for defamation. Barbarotta has accused Herbst of waging a media war against him for political reasons, costing AFB a $1.1 million contract renewal in Stamford. In preparing Herbsts defense, Trumbull attorney Dennis Kokenos obtained documents from AFB attorneys showing that, for the 2007-08 fiscal year, the Stamford Board of Education reimbursed AFB a total of $47,278 for car and cellphone use, health care and insurance. Kokenos wrote to Stamford Interim Superintendent James Connelly on June 17, seeking reimbursement amounts for other years. Kokenos request was denied for the reasons Rosenberg described. Kokenos letter explains he is seeking the reimbursement amounts to determine the true cost of services delivered by this contractor, since Barbarotta claims Herbst cost him $1.1 million. Kokenos also wants to know whether other contractors receive these same privileges. Under the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act, he requested copies of correspondences between former Superintendent Winifred Hamilton, who retired Jan. 1 in the wake of a mishandled sexual misconduct case involving a teacher at Stamford High School, and Hugh Murphy, chief financial officer for the school district. It appears Kokenos is trying to find out how perks usually reserved for employees were paid to a private contractor. Among the documents, Kokenos found that, in July 2007, Barbarotta was reimbursed $65 in cellphone costs. AFB employee Kevin Iassogna was paid $59 and another employee, Daniel DiBlasio, was paid $92. Barbarotta also received a $263 car allowance that month. Iassogna and DiBlasio each got $250. Barbarotta was reimbursed $597 for health insurance and $51.41 for dental insurance that July. Iassogna got $885 for health insurance and $103 for dental. DiBlasio received no health insurance reimbursement and $33 for dental. In addition, AFB was reimbursed $1,762 that month for general liability insurance, $624 for excess liability insurance and $280 for workers compensation insurance. In his letter to Connelly, Kokenos included a copy of AFBs 2012-13 contract renewal. The Board of Education paid AFB $363,135 that year to manage school buildings and grounds. The agreement then states reimbursables for liability insurance, workers compensation, health, dental, cellphones and a fixed car allowance will be billed separately on a monthly basis and will not exceed $3,500 per month. The documents do not include statements showing how much AFB was reimbursed in 2012-13, and it remains unclear whether the reimbursements were included in the contract or paid on top of it. The school boards 2015-16 contract with AFB, which expires Thursday, states the contractor was paid $742,144, and the same reimbursables are included in the fee. It does not provide amounts. Perhaps after the FBI concludes its investigation, taxpayers will find out how much they paid AFB for using cellphones and cars this year. The probe began in late March, when Stamford police seized two City Hall computers used by AFB employees. They later seized Barbarottas cellphone. The FBI then joined the investigation. The investigation stems from a June 9, 2015 email from Barbarotta to another contractor doing business with the city. According to the email, AFB wanted $10,000 a month in exchange for helping the contractor obtain state certificates needed for work the contractor was planning. The points made by Kokenos in his request for information raise good questions for Board of Education members and school administrators, as soon as they can talk. Who approved AFBs reimbursements? Why? Do other contractors receive them? How much was AFB reimbursed over the 16 years it has held the contract as facilities manager for Stamford schools? Since such costs usually are reserved for employees, is AFB considered an outside contractor or an employee? Taxpayers can only hope Board of Education members will consider the questions when they vote Tuesday on renewing AFBs contract for a 17th year. angela.carella@scni.com; 203-964-2296; stamfordadvocate.com/angelacarella. GREENWICH A Florida trucker, who is a convicted felon, was arrested Wednesday at the Greenwich weigh station for allegedly having a loaded .40 caliber handgun. Carlos Echevarria, 37, of Hollywood, Fla., stopped at the weigh station for a routine credential check around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. According to an arrest summary, Echevarria said he was in possession of a handgun within his commercial motor vehicle. Echevarria provided the location within the truck, which was a loaded .40 caliber handgun. The handgun was in an unlocked compartment behind the drivers seat. Echevarria did not have a valid Connecticut weapons permit. Additionally, Echevarria had a high-capacity magazine, capable of holding 12 rounds, and had a prior felony conviction. Echevarria was taken to Troop G in Bridgeport, where he was charged with criminal possession of a pistol or revolver, carrying a weapon in a motor vehicle, not having a permit to sell or carry a pistol or revolver and having a high-capacity magazine. He was held in lieu of $250,000 bond and is to appear in state Superior Court in Stamford on Thursday. According to a Lexis database, Echevarria was found guilty in 2005 in Providence, R.I. of felony charges. In 2001, he was found guilty of operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration. State police said Echevarria is a driver for Jalliam Transportation, based in Lincoln, R.I. Contributed photo: Dan Carter Touring Israel and the West Bank as part of a crash course on Middle East policy, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Dan Carter on Tuesday faulted the U.S. nuclear deal with Iran. Carter, a three-term state representative from Bethel, said the fragile U.S.-Israel alliance was further undermined by President Barack Obama and fellow Democrats, such as his opponent U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., when they agreed to lift economic sanctions against Iran last year. Billings contractor Kevin David McGovern and his company, CMG Construction, this week denied corruption charges alleging they defrauded the Chippewa Cree Tribe and bribed tribal officials to get $2.5 million in federally funded contracts without having to compete. McGovern, 46, pleaded not guilty to a four-count indictment during an arraignment Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Great Falls. McGovern, president of CMG Construction, also pleaded not guilty on behalf of the company. The indictment, filed on May 23, charges McGovern and CMG Construction with conspiracy to defraud the United States and the Chippewa Cree Tribe, scheme to defraud and two counts of bribery of a tribal government official. The indictment is the latest in a string of corruption charges against McGovern for activity involving the tribe on the Rocky Boy's Reservation in north-central Montana. The prosecution also is part of a massive, ongoing corruption probe by the Department of Interiors Office of Inspector General that has led to the convictions of numerous tribal and nontribal members. Federal prosecutors also have charged McGovern and two of his other companies in two other indictments. McGoverns attorney, Mark Parker of Billings, on Wednesday called the indictment a continuation largely of the same case. Parker said his client has pleaded not guilty. CMG Construction specializes in site preparation and construction. The company was a subcontractor on the $80 million James F. Battin Federal Courthouse in Billings, and earlier this year, Rocky Mountain College hired the firm as the general contractor for its $10.5 million initial phase capital project to build a science building and upgrades to Herb Klindt Field. FEMA funding The latest indictment accuses McGovern and CMG Construction of conspiring with former tribal officials, Tony James Belcourt and John Chance Houle, and with James Howard Eastlick Jr., a Belcourt associate and former clinical psychologist at the Rocky Boy Health Clinic, to get preferential treatment in construction contracts for projects funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Belcourt, Houle and Eastlick all have been sentenced to prison and ordered to pay hundreds of thousands in restitution for convictions in earlier corruption and bribery prosecutions. Belcourt and Houle, the indictment said, awarded CMG Construction sole-source, noncompetitive and unadvertised contracts for projects. In return for the preferential treatment, McGovern and CMG Construction paid kickbacks to Belcourt and Houle, the indictment said. Belcourt, a former state legislator and central figure in the overall corruption schemes, was sentenced to seven years in prison and ordered to pay $667,000 restitution. He was the CEO and contracting agent of the Chippewa Cree Construction Corp., which is the tribes company in charge of work on the reservations portion of the North Central Montana Regional Water System Project and other projects. Belcourt and McGovern, along with Kent Boos of Billings, also were partners in the Billings-based MT Waterworks LLC company, a water utility parts distributor. MT Waterworks pleaded guilty in May to charges that it defrauded the tribe by falsely claiming an Indian preference to get contracts, including work on the federally funded water system project. A plea agreement calls for MT Waterworks to pay a $350,000 fine in lieu of restitution. Sentencing is set for Sept. 15 before U.S. District Judge Brian Morris in Great Falls. Houle, who was vice chairman of the tribes Business Committee and vice chairman of the CCCC, was sentenced to five and a half years in prison and ordered to pay $121,219 restitution for his guilty pleas to embezzlement, tax evasion and other charges. Eastlick, who had partial interest in MT Waterworks through Belcourt and was partners with Belcourt in another company, was sentenced to six years in prison, ordered to pay a $100,000 fine and $424,800 restitution for his conviction in a bribery scheme. Flooding damage The contract kickback conspiracy involving McGovern and CMG Construction began in about December 2010, six months after flooding destroyed the Rocky Boys Health Clinic, federal prosecutors allege. FEMA, which negotiated with Belcourt, who had been designated by the tribe as its emergency incident commander, gave the tribe $11.6 million to help with recovery after the flooding. The tribe also received about $25 million in an insurance settlement from the Lexington and Crawford Insurance Companies for losses caused by the flooding, the indictment said. In fall 2010, Eastlick approached Houle with a proposal to award a $3 million contract funded by FEMA money to CMG Construction without advertising or competitive bidding in exchange for promised kickbacks to Houle from McGovern and CMG Construction, the indictment said. Belcourt then issued a $50,000 cashiers check drawn on his wifes bank account and payable to Houles ranching business account and another company. In December 2010, Belcourt, on behalf of the CCCC and with Houle's approval, awarded McGovern and CMG Construction a $2.9 million contact for the demolition and removal of the health clinic. Belcourt abandoned the December contract with CMG Construction, the indictment said. In June 2011, Belcourt then awarded McGovern and CMG Construction three sole-source, noncompetitive, and unadvertised contacts, the indictment said. In a separate case, McGovern and another of his companies, MC Equipment Holdings, LLC, pleaded not guilty in March to conspiracy and bribery charges. If convicted in the contract kickback case, McGovern faces a maximum 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the scheme to defraud. CMG Construction faces a maximum $500,000 fine on each count if convicted. HELENA Researchers plan to start trapping grizzly bears in parts of Montana's Gallatin National Forest over the next month as part of a project to monitor the bear population in and around Yellowstone National Park. Wildlife officials say biologists with the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team will begin baiting and trapping Friday on federal land and adjacent private land at the southern end of the Gallatin Crest and in the Northern Absaroka Range. The areas where the work is to be conducted will be marked with warning signs. There are estimated to be more than 700 grizzlies around Yellowstone. The bears are designated as a threatened species, but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed lifting federal protections after a population increase in recent years. Halloween activities for 2022 See what all goes bump in the night around Somerset County this Halloween season. I-75 crash kills three in south Marion County First responders said multiple vehicles were involved in the crash, which killed three people on I-75 near the Marion County and Sumter County line. A former Chippewa Cree tribal official on Thursday admitted he stole money from the tribe, evaded paying his federal income taxes for years and racked up almost $246,000 in tribal loans that prosecutors estimated would take him 185 years to repay. Brian Kelly Eagleman, 53, of Box Elder, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Great Falls to two counts of theft from a tribal organization and one count of income tax evasion. A plea agreement calls for Eagleman to pay $410,000 restitution. Other counts are to be dismissed at sentencing if U.S. District Judge Brian Morris of Great Falls accepts the agreement. Eagleman faces a maximum five years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the theft count. Morris set sentencing for Oct. 6 and continued Eaglemans release. Eaglemans guilty pleas settled three separate indictments federal prosecutors had filed against him as part of a broad ongoing corruption probe into tribal activities on north-central Montanas Rocky Boys Reservation. Tribal headquarters are located in Box Elder. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Rostad said in court records that Eagleman received $50,000 in a deal in which the tribe bought an asphalt machine, known as a hot plant, from his co-defendant, Kevin David McGovern of Billings, and his company, MC Equipment Holdings, LLC. McGovern and his company have pleaded not guilty to charges related to the hot plant sale. Eagleman, who was an elected member of the tribes business committee and co-chairman of the tribes Roads Division Oversight Committee, worked with McGovern and others to buy the hot plant from McGoverns company, MC Equipment, using tribal money, court records said. Prosecutors alleged that Eagleman knew the purchase was unnecessary and that the sale price would personally benefit those involved in the deal. MC Equipment bought the hot plant for $1.2 million in 2010 and wanted to sell it, prosecutors said. McGovern agreed to pay former tribal official Tony Belcourt, who was the chief executive officer of the tribes construction company and a business partner of McGoverns, a finders fee if he could get a buyer for the hot plant, prosecutors said. Belcourt, who was convicted of corruption charges and is serving a prison sentence, got Eaglemans support and the support of other business committee members for the tribe to buy the hot plant for $1.7 million in 2012. Belcourt then directed McGovern to issue a $229,000 finders fee commission check from MC Equipments account, payable to a Havre businessman. Through a series of transactions, a $50,000 cashiers check was issued and made payable to the IRS with the remitter being Eagleman and his wife, Violet Eagleman, Rostad said. The Eaglemans owed the IRS more than $60,000 in delinquent taxes, not including penalty and interest, for not filing returns for tax years 2003 to 2008 and for 2010, court records said. He also did not file returns for calendar years 2011 to 2014. Eagleman kept the $50,000 cashiers check for eight months without paying his IRS taxes, then, through several transactions with his bank, had the check reissued and withdrew cash, Rostad said. The hot plant was delivered to the tribe, but it was stored unassembled in a parking lot before being moved in 2013 to tribes construction companys yard, Rostad said. The plant was never assembled or used. The tribes construction company eventually sold it in 2015 for $1 million to a Canadian business. Prosecutors said Eagleman also exploited the tribes loan program for years by getting numerous loans he knew he could not repay and in amounts exceeding a $500 limit. When interviewed by law enforcement in March, Eagleman owed the tribe $245,989. Rostad said it would take Eagleman 185 years to repay the loan, assuming no additional interest accrued on the debt, based on his last payroll deduction of $55 in December 2015. Eagleman was a councilman on the tribes Business Committee from 1993 through 1995 and from 1999 through 2004. He was then re-elected to the Business Committee from 2009 to mid-November 2012. He began getting tribal loans in 2003. In 2012, the tribes formal loan program was created and imposed policies and regulations, including one that provided that no one with an unpaid balance was eligible for a new loan, Rostad said. Despite the policies, Eagleman got 45 additional loans totaling $37,650 from January 2012 to November 2015, well knowing that his ability to ever repay his obligations to the tribe was virtually non-existent, Rostad said. Eagleman got loans exceeding the $500 limit, and some of the loans were unsigned or had no indication they were approved by the loan committee, the prosecutor said. By January 2012, Eagleman owed the tribe about $246,000 in unpaid personal loans. Eleven months later, he lost his position on the business committee. Eagleman admitted in an interview earlier this year that he had received more than $150,000 in loans over the years but thought the balances would be repaid through payroll deductions, Rostad said. CASPER, Wyo. The Niobrara County coroner has admitted to defrauding Medicaid of more than $100,000, court documents show. Lisa Mellott pleaded guilty June 22 to 11 counts of Medicaid fraud and two counts of forgery. Authorities say Mellott billed Medicaid for services that she did not provide to patients of her home health care business. As part of a plea agreement, special prosecutor Nathaniel Hibben dismissed two additional forgery charges in Mellotts case. Hibben also dismissed a charge of elder abuse, which Mellott faced for allegedly neglecting a patient of her home health care service for more than a year. Mellotts sentencing is set for Sept. 8 in Niobrara County District Court. Hibben said he will recommend Mellott be sentenced to three to six years in prison, with six years of probation following her prison term. He will also ask that Mellott be required to pay $107,000 in restitution. Mellott is free on bond pending her sentencing. She is being represented by public defender Eric Palen. Palen did not return a reporters phone call Tuesday. Niobrara County Clerk Becky Freeman said Tuesday that Mellott was still the county coroner. She said the county attorney had advised her not to speak further. A secretary at the county attorney's office referred a reporter to the county commissioners. Richard Ladwig, chairman of the commission, did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. According to court documents, Mellott forged her clients signatures on forms that indicated she had provided services warranting Medicaid reimbursement, when she had not. Authorities learned Mellott had allegedly neglected one of her patients for more than a year after discovering a disabled patient in poor conditions during last years flooding in Lusk, court documents show. Opinion Wordle The next day I woke to find myself in a WhatsApp group titled Quordle is Awesome!! A small group of three. There was no getting out of it now. Not for the first time in our history, Britain has lit a beacon to inspire millions across Europe who feel ignored, disdained and oppressed by ruling elites. Indeed, those at home who are nervous about Brexit should take heart from the joyful reaction of countless EU citizens who yearn to follow our example. From the Atlantic to the Aegean, they have endured the same frustrations and anxieties the sense of impotence to run their affairs and control mass migration. The vote might have gone the other way if Europe's elites had offered David Cameron the slightest meaningful reform In Greece, France and Spain, polls show more want to pull out of the EU than to stay in. And in Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden, over 40 per cent are against membership, along with many more than a third of Italians and Hungarians. Yet for years, these disenfranchised millions were told it was simply not possible to reform the EU let alone leave it and that the free movement of people is an immutable part of the package. Last week, all that changed overnight, as Britons led the way in showing there is an alternative to letting secretive judges and bureaucrats dictate how we live or who can settle in our countries. Indeed, the Brexit victory has inspired dozens of demands for referendums including calls for votes on dumping the euro and tightening migration policy. Yet faced with this clamour, Europe's elites remain in pig-headed denial. If only they had offered David Cameron the slightest meaningful reform, the vote might have gone the other way. But in their arrogant conviction that they knew best, they showed they were incapable of heeding public concerns. And look at them now. Terrified that others may follow the UK's lead, that sneering, bibulous buffoon Jean-Claude Juncker one of the EU's five presidents! refuses informal talks about a trade deal (though he's happy to meet the SNP's Nicola Sturgeon, if only to snub her). Bizarrely, in a total inversion of the truth, he blames Mr Cameron's supposed euroscepticism for the result, saying: 'If you tell citizens something is wrong with the EU, you cannot be taken by surprise if voters believe you.' Even the usually sensible Angela Merkel rules out negotiations before we apply formally to withdraw. (Though how long before German exporters, desperate for a free trade deal because they sell us so much, make her change her mind?) Terrified that others may follow the UK's lead, Jean-Claude Juncker (pictured) one of the EU's five presidents refuses informal talks about a trade deal Meanwhile, under fierce domestic fire over migration, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte loftily declares that the UK has 'collapsed' because of Brexit. How, then, does he explain why the FTSE index is back at pre-referendum levels? And why have Land Rover, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and Dixons all declared their full confidence in the UK's future? How significant, too, that since the vote, France has said the once non-negotiable free movement of people has suddenly become negotiable, while the border controls it threatened to move to England are to remain on French soil? No, it's the countries that stay behind in the EU, chained to a backward system collapsing under its bureaucracy, which have more to fear from the future. Shiftier and shiftier Many may have thought the charges against 'Sir Shifty' Philip Green could get no graver. Yet now it is claimed he refused to sell BHS to a rival tycoon, because he feared the buyer might humiliate him by making a success of it. In other words, he stands accused of sacrificing 11,000 jobs and 22,000 members of the company pension scheme on the altar of his overweening vanity. This was, surely, one of the most unedifying days in modern politics. A day of treachery and opportunism on both sides of the Chamber. A day in which the currency of political discourse was devalued still further. After a referendum characterised by vicious animosity, crass hyperbole and risible dishonesty, the brutal truth, we suspect, is that the public's trust in politicians yesterday reached a new low. The Tories, who only 14 months ago won a famous victory, are tearing themselves to pieces, while an Opposition that defies parody engages in a gruesome civil war. Forget Labour. It deserves its ignominy. No, it's the Conservative Party we are worried about, as we are about the wider public. Both are crying out for a steadying influence to calm the fever and heal the divisions of post-referendum Britain. That is why the Daily Mail believes it has to be Theresa May for the Tory leadership. Scroll down for video In normal circumstances, this paper would hesitate to declare its hand before the closing stages of such a contest. But whatever these times may be, they are anything but normal The Mail believes only Mrs May has the right qualities, the stature and experience to unite both her party and the country and possibly usher in a new, cleaner, more honest kind of politics In normal circumstances, this paper would hesitate to declare its hand before the closing stages of such a contest. But whatever these times may be, they are anything but normal. And among the five candidates vying to succeed David Cameron, the Mail believes only Mrs May has the right qualities, the stature and experience to unite both her party and the country and possibly usher in a new, cleaner, more honest kind of politics. True, as she is the first to admit, she is not the most exciting of politicians. But, frankly, voters have had enough political excitement in the past few weeks to last them half a lifetime. There are also many other things which Mrs May is not. These, too, may be numbered among her strongest assets. A vicar's daughter, she is not a member of the privileged classes, but had to make her own way in the world after state primary and grammar schools. (Indeed, one of her strengths is that she is an unashamed champion of selective secondary schooling, which used to give a leg-up in life to so many like her who were born with few advantages but their brains.) She is not clubbable, either. She does not belong to the Westminster chumocracy, which has corrupted our politics with jobs for flatmates and cronies. If she wins this contest, we can be confident that those she promotes will be chosen on merit alone by this living embodiment of meritocracy. Nor is she a divisive, ideology-driven Right-winger. Indeed, her one-nation credentials include solid and pragmatic social achievements such as the Modern Slavery Act, which clamped down on the vile trade in human beings, and ending counterproductive stop-and-search procedures, which wasted police time while inflaming resentment in minority communities. Above all, she is not a believer in gimmicks, focus groups or conjuring policies out of the air, twisting and turning to feed the 24-hour news cycle. And if she can introduce a new, more serious, more truthful politics, she will be thanked by millions of Britons who are utterly disenchanted with the political process. So much for what she is not. As for what she is, she is a serious-minded woman, with an ethic of public service and an enormous capacity for hard work and attention to detail. In this respect, and in her steeliness, she is somewhat reminiscent of Margaret Thatcher. With her political experience honed in the furnace of the Home Office which finished off many a lesser Cabinet Minister Mrs May is also brave. For example, she was unafraid to risk hostility by challenging the corrupt Police Federation, while she succeeded where all her predecessors failed in deporting the hate preachers Abu Hamza and Abu Qatada. It is worth remembering, too, she has been in charge of counter-terrorism, at a time when the worldwide threat from suicide bombers and other politically motivated murderers has never been higher. In this, touch wood, she has been formidably successful to date. Certainly, her record on controlling immigration has been disappointing, to say the least. But then she has been frustrated at every turn not only by the EU's rules on freedom of movement, but by a Chancellor who has actively promoted migration to encourage a low-wage, labour-intensive economy. What makes her different from so many of her colleagues is that she has her heart in bringing the numbers down. She gets it as she gets the public's utter distaste for the cynical, career-obsessed, Blairite school of politics by deception and spin.Indeed, in announcing her leadership bid, she struck precisely the right note a note silent in the Tory Party for far too long. Ms May is not a believer in gimmicks, focus groups or conjuring policies out of the air, twisting and turning to feed the 24-hour news cycle With the best will in the world, we cannot see Mr Gove as a Prime Minister for these turbulent times. A great irony of his surprise decision to throw his hat into the leadership ring yesterday is that in the very act of doing so, he raised question marks over the qualities so many have come to admire in him: consistency, strict adherence to principle and, yes, trustworthiness 'If you are from an ordinary, working-class family,' she said, 'life is just much harder than many people in politics realise. 'Frankly, not everybody in Westminster understands what it's like to live like this, and some need to be told that it isn't a game. It's a serious business that has real consequences for people's lives.' Never have such words more needed to be said. Yes, of course many supporters of Brexit, for which this paper so passionately argued, might have preferred the favourite for No. 10 to be a believer in their cause while Mrs May campaigned (albeit sotto voce) to Remain. Frankly, not everybody in Westminster understands what it's like to live like this, and some need to be told that it isn't a game. It's a serious business that has real consequences for people's lives. Theresa May Admirers insist she is a woman of her word. So when she bluntly declares 'Brexit means Brexit', indicating that she will not back away from last week's vote or try to fob the public off with 'Brexit-lite', this paper is prepared to believe she is telling the truth. It is also hugely reassuring that she promises to put a campaigner for Out in charge of the negotiations for withdrawal. Which brings us to Michael Gove surely the ideal candidate for the job. This paper has enormous respect for Mr Gove. As Education Secretary, he put up a heroic fight to improve standards in Britain's schools, while he has served with great promise as a reforming Justice Secretary. He also brought high intelligence and his habitual courtesy to the Leave campaign, patiently making the arguments and elevating the quality of the debate. Indeed, he can claim a large measure of the credit for the result, which this paper remains convinced was the right one for our country and Europe. But with the best will in the world, we cannot see Mr Gove as a Prime Minister for these turbulent times. Indeed, a great irony of his surprise decision to throw his hat into the leadership ring yesterday is that in the very act of doing so, he raised question marks over the qualities so many have come to admire in him: consistency, strict adherence to principle and, yes, trustworthiness. This is a man, after all, who declared repeatedly and categorically that he had no ambition to take the top job even offering on one occasion to sign a statement to that effect, on parchment in his own blood. Dr Liam Fox (right) and Stephen Crabb (left) have, in our view, no serious hope of victory, though the latter seems to have future potential. That he had good reasons for wishing to sabotage Boris Johnson's bid for No. 10, the Mail does not doubt. Though a flamboyant showman, with strong popular appeal, the volatile former London mayor has often given cause to question the reliability of his word. Indeed, in his ill-judged newspaper column on Monday, he appeared already to be back-tracking on the Leave campaign's pledges to curb migration within the EU. Put to one side his appalling philandering. We have long had grave doubts about whether he was a serious enough politician for these serious times and whether he was capable of the devotion to public duty and attention to detail now called for. But to give Mr Johnson his due, he enlivens any debate in which he takes part, while the bumbling image he likes to project masks a first-class brain. We can be confident that whichever path he chooses next, he will prosper and go far. Boris has always known how to look after Boris. As for the remaining rivals for No. 10, Andrea Leadsom also campaigned persuasively for Leave, while she has an impressive CV as a former City bigwig. She is clearly a woman to watch. But let's face it, as a junior minister at the Department of Energy and Climate Change, she lacks the necessary political experience for the highest office, while before the referendum campaign most of the country had never heard of her. But with the referendum wounds still raw, the markets jittery, the future uncertain and Westminster increasingly resembling a madhouse what the country needs most is a solid and steady hand on the tiller For the sake of a Conservative Party that is at risk of imploding and a normally tolerant Britain that is currently so divided, this paper believes MPs and the nation should unite behind Mrs May as quickly as possible Meanwhile, Dr Liam Fox and Stephen Crabb have, in our view, no serious hope of victory, though the latter seems to have future potential. Which leaves only Mrs May. The Mail has no doubt that if she wins, we will find plenty to disagree with her about in the months and years ahead. And if she wins, we sincerely hope she will bring senior Brexiteers into her tent. But with the referendum wounds still raw, the markets jittery, the future uncertain and Westminster increasingly resembling a madhouse what the country needs most is a solid and steady hand on the tiller. I got a fake tan once. That was about five years ago when a group of mates and I dressed up for muck up day. But today, my knowledge of the beauty world is being taken to the next level. I've been booked in for a treatment with the girls at Face of Man, a male only grooming lounge in Sydney's CBD, where I'll be given 'the works'. Just quietly, I'm terrified. Foreign world: Daily Mail Australia reporter Josh Hanrahan is ready to go for his first ever experience in the world of beauty treatment at Sydney men's grooming lounge Face of Man Confusion: Josh keeps a careful eye on the work of Cathriona as she begins the treatment on his feet Like many other blokes, the world of beauty was something I was content to leave to women. If it means I can watch the footy in peace, I'm more than happy for my girlfriend to take my card and get her nails done, or whatever really happens in those mysterious salons. But today it's my turn to go and I've been told all week by the girls in the office what luxury I'm in for. It all sounds great, but it's not until I walk through the doors and into what can only be described as a man cave of luxury, that I'm actually convinced. After being greeted by the lovely Cathriona, I'm sat down on a suave couch and handed a glass of scotch. My trepidation has now been replaced with enthusiasm. Terrified: Josh's only other experience in the world of beauty was a fake tan he got as a joke and admits he was unsure what to expect before the treatment Here we go! After getting changed into a white robe and spending some time in the steam room, Josh undergoes a full body scrub using a sea salt scrub Relaxing! Josh looks quite comfortable as Cathriona massages his feet in a tub of hot water I'm given a white dressing gown - stereotypically perfect - don a pair of slippers and am ready to join the list of blokes from rugby league star Cooper Cronk, to The Biggest Loser's Steve 'Commando' Willis and The Bachelor himself, Tim Robards, who have been beautified by the girls here. First up, 'a full body scrub' - four words that mean nothing to me. Ignorantly (with the words of the jealous women back in the office ringing in my ears) I assume this will be a nice, soft and comfortable start, settling me in to my time in this foreign world. Ooh, aah and ouch. Maybe it's because I haven't had it done before or maybe this is just how it's meant to go, but my skin feels like it's being grated with sand paper - all the way down to my bones. After a quick shower to remove the sea salt I then run my hand over my skin. It feels like I've been born again. Next we move onto my feet, an area I know I care for better than a lot of blokes, particularly my housemate! 'This isn't too bad at all,' I think to myself as my feet are massaged in a tub of hot water. What is going on here? An unsure Josh keeps a close eye on what's happening as his pedicure gets underway Feet reborn: Josh's feet are covered in warm paraffin wax which helps to remove dead skin and make them soft and smooth Having my nails filed, my feet scrubbed and my cuticles (still not sure what on earth they are) done, is something I could get used to. Maybe women aren't so silly paying loads for all this jazz after all. After my feet it's on to my face and I have a really bad feeling that this is when the pain will hit. As per usual, my gut instinct is spot on. I quickly learn why men don't regularly have their eyebrows plucked and waxed. It hurts. Mummified! A warm towel wrapped around the head prepares Josh for his facial treatment Going, going, gone! Cathriona places wax around Josh's eyebrows before ripping the hair off in an instant Extractions: Cathriona works hard on popping the blackhead pimples that lie deep beneath the skin Seriously, why would you put yourself through that if you had the choice not to? With each. Little. Eyebrow. Comes. A. Whole. Lot. Of pain. My eyes watering and so Cathriona decides it's time to build on the pain by moving onto extractions - the fine art of eliminating pimples deep in the skin. Surprisingly, it's not that bad at all, at least compared to the eyebrow work. Steam it up: After having a face mask applied Josh is treated to an abundance of steam on his face Before and after: After the beauty treatment was done Josh said his skin felt brand new 'I must admit I'm disappointed': After initially being unsure what to expect, Josh was disappointed to see his treatment at Face of Man come to an end Finally, it's a warm, soft, steam-filled and overall incredibly relaxing face massage. Now this I could get used to. As I battle to stay awake in the face of this luxury, I'm informed that my day at the spa is over. I must admit I'm disappointed. It definitely took me a bit to settle in, but after three hours of pampering and relaxation, I think I understand what it is women enjoy about this whole thing. However, she has still recently modelled for Calvin Klein and Superga Abbey Lee Kershaw has recently been concentrating on her film career It's for their 'Amante Amore' line and sees Ms Kershaw rock sultry outfits She might be busy on the promotional run for her upcoming film, The Neon Demon, but Melbourne-born model, actress and musician, Abbey Lee Kershaw, hasn't given up the day job just yet. The 29-year-old looks stunning in new Sass & Bide campaign shots for their latest line, the 'Amante Amore' collection, which will be on sale both in store and online from Thursday. The new Sass & Bide photos show a sultry side to Ms Kershaw, who is seen wearing an assortment of Seventies-inspired cuts, textures and colours throughout the shoot. Scroll down for video Siren: Abbey Lee Kershaw is the new campaign model for Sass & Bide's latest line, the 'Amante Amore' collection, which will be on sale both in store and online from Thursday Red is dead: In the sultry shots, Ms Kershaw is seen rocking a number of Seventies-inspired outfits - these include this stunning asymmetric crimson dress The collection takes its inspiration from a French-Moroccan sort of decadence, and in the snaps, Ms Kershaw models both a colourful assymetric dress as well as a monochrome flared trouser suit and striking crimson gown. It marks creative director Therese Rawsthornes debut for the brand. 'Amante Amore was inspired by the essence of Sass & Bide, a travelling free spirit, collecting precious treasures and trinkets wherever she goes,' Ms Rawsthorne said in a statement about the collection. 'She is a collector of beautiful things, experiences and friendships and epitomises the free-spirited nature of Sass & Bide. 'I am so excited to be a part of the Sass & Bide family.' Daring: The collection takes inspiration from a French-Moroccan sort of decadence, and Ms Kershaw is also seen wearing this monochrome, flared trouser suit Ms Rawsthorne's first collection reflects these bohemian sensibilities, thanks to its melting pot of influences and cultures through clothes. Abbey Lee Kershaw, meanwhile, has been taking a break from the fashion industry in which she first made her name recently, preferring to concentrate on the world of film. The Mad Max: Fury Road star's upcoming film, The Neon Demon, drew a buzz at the Cannes Film Festival and is directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, who famously also directed Ryan Gosling in his cult effort, Drive, in 2011. New times: It marks creative director Therese Rawsthornes debut for the brand, and is a reflection of a set of bohemian sensibilities, thanks to its melting pot of influences However, Ms Kershaw has not completely turned her back on fashion. She is also currently the face of the renowned Italian sneaker brand, Superga. Abbey Lee also attracted controversy in January, when she starred in the provocative Calvin Klein topless campaign which also featured Justin Bieber. Mixing it up: These days, Abbey Lee Kershaw is as renowned in the film world as she is in fashion - she recently had a role in Mad Max: Fury Road and has another film out soon A photo of a young couple sleeping together in a hospital bed has gone viral after being posted on Reddit. The photo shows a a boyfriend and girlfriend sharing a tiny hospital bed after the man was admitted with a brain hemorrhage and has tugged at the heart strings of many. 'She says she never wants to sleep without me. I had a hemorrhage in my brain stem and spent a week in the hospital,' the man wrote on Reddit under the name Yonderkinfolk. 'She marched right through that hospital policy with a blanket and a pillow.' 'She says she never wants to sleep without me': A photo of a couple has gone viral after being posted on Reddit (above). The girlfriend of a man in hospital refused to sleep without him after his brain hemorrhage The couple had no idea the photo was being taken at the time. 'I was pretty heavily sedated through most of my stay,' Yonderkinfolk said. '[Our friend] sent me the photo about a month later. We had no idea that it was being taken.' They got engaged only months later, and married in November 2014. Although some people have found the photo incredibly sweet, others have accused the man's girlfriend of putting his life in danger by sleeping in bed with him. Litlle helper: The same man also posted a photo of his son helping him learn how to walk again (above) Yonderkinfolk, however, said this wasn't the case. 'The doctors/nurses wouldn't have allowed her to be in bed with me if it were any risks,' he wrote. 'The neurologist, although it took some convincing, allowed her to lay with me for a couple hours a night. After I fell asleep, she moved to the chair. NONE of this have been allowed if it put me in any danger.' Thankfully, the man survived, although he had to learn how to do many things all over again. A few months later he posted another photo to Reddit, this time with his son. 'After a bleed in my brainstem, this is my son, helping me learn to walk again,' he captioned the picture, in which his son is leading him down a hospital corridor. Touching ending: He posted an update eight months ago saying he had completed an 11 mile spartan endurance race (above) The pair are even wearing matching eyepatches, with the man saying his son enjoyed the pirate accessory he had to wear. 'I wore that patch for 2 months. He really enjoyed that. "Arrrrgghh daddy!"' Just when the story couldn't get anymore heartwarming, eight months ago Yonderkinfolk posted an update. Along with the photo of his son helping him, he posted another photo of himself completing an endurance race. Museums are a great place to visit, observe and learn. But their 'boring' reputation and the requirement of silence also makes them a nightmare for anyone with young children. However one toddler thought he had struck gold on his day out to the museum, discovering what he thought was a 'free snack'. The hungry young boy was pictured escaping the hold of his mother to suck on the bare breast of a porcelain statue. Free feed! The hungry young boy escapes his mother's grasp and latches his lips around the breast of the statue hoping to be fed Initially shocked at his escape, the mother can then be seen laughing hysterically as her determined son wraps his lip around the nipple. While a young child escaping the clutches of their parent to run wild may not be anything too out of the ordinary, this instance was incredibly cute. The image was posted on the Life of Dad Facebook page on Wednesday and has received thousands of responses from social media users. Mistaken identity! The youngster looks at what he hopes is a free feed on a day out at the museum, only to be let down by the statue However while the mother found the incident funny, the picture has received a mixed reaction from online users. Some have laughed, others have criticised and some satirically responded to the picture. It might have been a cold day in Sydney, but inside the launch of swimwear label Seafolly's spring/summer collection things were heating up. Fringed bikinis, coral colours, tie-dye patterns and Seventies-inspired looks dominated the 2016/17 collection, which was showcased at the restaurant North Bondi Fish. Australian supermodel Shanina Shaik led the bevy of beauties through the restaurant's tables in a blue-and-white kaftan, her long legs on display. Scroll down for video Heating up: On a cold day in Sydney, Australian supermodel Shanina Shaik (pictured centre) led a bevvy of beauties for Seafolly's season launch Bold designs: Shanina (pictured left), who is a former Victoria's Secret model, shone in a blue and white patterned wrap while another model wore a plunging orange one-piece (right) The former Victoria's Secret model, who is engaged to DJ Rukus, is the newly appointed ambassador for iconic swimwear brand. She wore a patterned kaftan for the event, which was paired with strappy black sandals. The brunette beauty left her long hair loose over her shoulders and smiled as she wove her way through the restaurant. Bring back the seventies! The collection had a distinct seventies vibe, with fringed bikinis (left) and bold patterns (right) She was joined by swimwear-clad models, who braved Sydney's cold temperatures for the launch. One model wore a deep orange one-piece with a plunging neckline, while another stunned in a burnt-orange fringed bikini. And it seems the Seventies-inspired designs that have dominated catwalks of late are here to stay. Pretty patterns: One model wore a floral printed bikini with pink tassels (left), while another stunned in a blue tie-dye number (right) Fringing, tie-dye patterns and waisted bikini bottoms all featured in the collection. One model stunned in an Aztec print bikini, which had daring cutouts on the hips. A father-of-one stunned his wife of 25 years after revealing his secret love of pole dancing. Andrew Knox, 52, confessed to Carole, 50, when she discovered his stash of skimpy hot pants and pole fitness DVDs at their home in Felixstowe, Suffolk. The couple then lived their lives for the next three years without discussing Andrew's new hobby because his wife disapproved of it. Andrew and Carole Knox (pictured) have been married for over 25 years, yet Andrew managed to keep his pole dancing a secret from his wife The talented father-of-one initially took up the sport to keep fit Determined to improve his health and get fit, Andrew took up pole classes, but didn't tell wife Carole, fearing she would demand he hang up his hot pants. Andrew said: 'I knew it was an unusual form of fitness and I was worried about what she might think. 'Carole stumbling upon my pole DVDs and gold hot pants wasn't the way I wanted her to find out. 'It was a struggle to convince her that I wasn't having a mid-life crisis.' After discovering her husband's risque pole fitness gear, Carole worried her partner had ulterior motives for his new hobby and even suspected he could be gay. Bored of other sports, the 52-year-old discovered a passion for pole Andrew kept his hobby a secret, fearing his wife might make him give up his work-out So she demanded Andrew quit the classes and throw away the outfits. Carole, who found the DVDs and outfits down the side of a chair, struggled to understand how a heterosexual man in his 40s could be interested in pole dancing. Carole, an admin worker said: 'I was angry when I discovered Andrew's unusual hobby. 'The only time I'd ever heard about pole dancing was in relation to strippers and sex. 'I probably did go a bit over the top, but I was scared of the reasons why he could be doing it. 'A million possibilities ran through my mind, and for a moment I even suspected he could be gay.' The couple pictured on their honeymoon in 1991. Carole was initially dismissive of her husband's dancing, at one point believing him to be gay Andrew became incredibly toned after attending regular pole dancing classes In spite of his wife's protests, Andrew continued attending pole dancing classes and the couple spent the next three years avoiding the subject. It wasn't until Carole noticed her husband's obvious love for the sport and his toned body that she reluctantly came around to the idea. After watching one of Andrew's pole routines, she was eventually won over by his amazing pole dancing skills. Andrew says: 'At first she thought I wanted to gawp at half-naked women, and at one point even asked if I wanted to become a woman! Although he was not particularly overweight to begin with, the death of his father prompted Andrew to lose some weight and get fit 'As with most people, she thought pole dancing was just a sleazy form of dance for strippers, and it did take a while for us to move past that. 'However, after she saw the positive effect it had on my body and self-confidence, she couldn't help but love what I do!' IT support worker Andrew attended his first pole fitness class in 2006. Following the sudden death of his father, Dennis, Andrew wanted to improve his health and lose weight. Andrew says: 'I wasn't particularly fat, but my father's passing was a wakeup call. 'After realising there was a history of heart disease in the family, I knew I had to do something to shift the extra weight I was carrying and be as healthy as possible.' So Andrew joined his local gym and attended Pilates and body pump classes. But he found the routines boring and began dreading every mundane trip to the gym. He says: 'I absolutely hated the gym and after chatting to a lady at one of my Zumba classes, she convinced me to give pole fitness a go. It was after joining a gym that Andrew was convinced to give pole fitness a go Bored by other sports, the father took to pole dancing immediately 'I was a little sceptical at first, given its negative connotations with the sex industry, but since starting I've never looked back.' At first Andrew attended the occasional pole fitness class and wore regular gym clothing. He was not only the oldest by 10 years in the class but he was the only man. Overcoming his nerves, he embraced the challenge each class offered. By 2011 Andrew's passion for pole fitness grew and he started attending weekly classes and going topless, just sporting gold hot pants. The talented dancer is the only male in his class but is by no means the oldest After a while, Andrew began to go topless in his classes, wearing just a pair of hot pants to dance in He kept it a secret from wife Carole, but realised it was only a matter of time before she found out, as his bedroom drawer was populated by pole outfits. A year later Andrew's secret came out - much to his wife's surprise. Since attending his first class, he has developed an impressive repertoire of pole dancing moves. Andrew, who recently passed a pole fitness teaching course, has a pole installed in his garage, where he spends hours perfecting numerous jaw dropping moves, including the one-handed genie, the Superman and the extended butterfly. He has also competed in a number of pole fitness competitions, including the Pole2Pole Mature Cup in Suffolk. The Felixstowe resident has managed to perfect a number of moves, helped by the fact he has a pole installed in his garage to practice with Andrew has even competed in the the Pole2Pole Mature Cup in Suffolk Andrew says: 'When I first started I couldn't even hold myself up. 'Now I'm hanging upside down by my feet - it's crazy! 'My confidence has also dramatically improved. 'There was a time when I wouldn't even get up and dance at a party, whereas now I'm parading myself half-naked at my pole classes several times a week.' When Andrew practices his moves at home, Carole is quick to praise her husband as he spins around the pole in a skimpy outfit. Carole says: 'When I watch Andrew on the pole I am just in complete awe. After seeing her husband dance, Carole is now in awe of his skills on the pole Despite initially disapproving she now finds her husband's dancing 'sexy' 'He's so strong and talented, and now I find it sexy.' Andrew adds: 'It's brilliant that I've finally got the support of Carole to continue doing what I love.' The couple's 20-year-old son, Alex has been nothing but supportive of his dad. Andrew says: 'While pole dancing isn't Alex's thing, he's thrilled that I'm exercising and we often go for runs together. 'Admittedly, not everyone is so kind, and we have had a few friends make the odd comment about it all. 'However, pole fitness has given me a whole new lease of life. When Jackie Lundstrom makes arrests for boating under the influence, she often hears the same excuse from intoxicated boaters: They plan to call a cab or a friend when they get back to shore. Lundstrom, the enforcement division operations supervisor for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, said its time for the public to correlate boating under the influence with driving under the influence. It is the same thing, she said. If you know you cant drive your car, you shouldnt be driving your boat. North Dakota last weekend participated for the first time in Operation Dry Water, a coordinated nationwide effort by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators to decrease boating under the influence. NASBLA works in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Operation Dry Water was launched in 2009. The NASBLA says alcohol consumption was the leading contributing factor in 120 deaths nationwide that year, followed by 126 in 2010 and 125 in 2011. The number of alcohol-related deaths dropped to 109 in 2012, followed by 75 in 2013 and 108 in 2014. In North Dakota, boating under the influence is defined as having a blood-alcohol concentration of .10 or higher, compared to .08 for driving a car. Boating under the influence is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail. Boating privileges also are suspended for the offense. Lundstrom said that, while alcohol is a factor in many boating accidents nationwide, its hard to determine exactly how pervasive it is in North Dakota for several reasons. First, the majority of boat crashes are reported after the fact, she said. Boaters have 48 hours to report a crash resulting in injury, disappearance or death and 10 days to report a crash resulting in $2,000 or more in damage. While many crashes are reported sooner than those limits, delays can keep officers from getting evidence that a boater was intoxicated. Second, there are 37 officers covering all of the states waters. Lundstrom explained that two officers per weekend generally are assigned to the Missouri River system in Bismarck-Mandan. Boating under the influence arrests vary from 12 to 20 per year in that area. Lundstrom said the relatively small number is a function of the small number of officers combined with the amount of time it takes to process each arrest. In certain areas of the state, I do believe boating under the influence is a problem, she said. Officers emphasize boating and drinking awareness while on patrol, but this years participation in Operation Dry Water is the states first time getting involved in advertising and promoting the message, according to Lundstrom. Its important for people to understand the importance of not drinking and boating and the importance of stepping up and stopping someone from operating a boat when theyve had too much to drink, said Lundstrom, who advocates designating a driver for a boat, just like for a motor vehicle. High winds Saturday and Sunday kept many from heading out on the water, but Lundstrom said Game and Fish law enforcement personnel made many, many boat contacts on Friday. Lundstrom doesnt have all of the statistics compiled yet, and so far she doesnt know of anyone arrested for boating under the influence during the enforcement period. Officers did conduct numerous safety checks, and they wrote tickets or warnings for safety violations, including not having enough life jackets, not having enough people on board to pull a tuber or skier and registration violations, she said. She said North Dakota will participate again in Operation Dry Water in a continued effort to make the public aware of the dangers of drinking and boating. A proud mother has described the eye-watering moment she gave birth to one of Britains biggest babies to be born naturally. Rory was born weighing a staggering 12lb 7oz, twice the size of most newborns. His mother Charlotte Hawthorn, 23, and father Mathew Williams, 26, had no idea their son was going to be so big. He was conceived though IVF and born after a five hour labour and two hours of pushing at Arrowe Park Hospital, Wirrral. Eye watering 12lb 7oz Rory is thought to be one of the biggest babies in the UK to be born naturally. Mother Charlotte Hawthorn, 23, gave birth naturally at Arrow Parke Hospital, Wirral, without an epirdural. She and her partner, Matthew Williams, who conceived thanks to IVF had no idea their son would be so big when planning a natural birth Shocked staff called for back up when they saw the size of Rorys head when it finally emerged - but thankfully he was delivered in perfect health. Even Charlotte didnt fare too badly considering the size of her baby, and was back on her feet looking after him within hours of the birth. The only problem they faced was Rory was too big for all the carefully chosen newborn outfits his mother had packed. So Charlottes best friend and birthing partner Katie Webb, 23, had to dash out and buy bigger babygrows. Charlotte said: Nobody had an idea, it was a huge shock to all the staff as well as me and my partner but we are just relieved that the birth went so well considering, apart from hurting a lot obviously. I planned a natural delivery not knowing he was going to be twice the size of most newborns. He is gorgeous, we call him our little hunky chunky. Rory, right, in maternity ward next to an average 6lb baby, which he was over double the size of Rory was too big for all his newborn clothes and mum's best friend had had to rush out to buy age 6 months clothing to dress him in when he was born.A proud exhausted mum after giving birth Charlotte was thrilled to fall pregnant in July 2015 after her unexplained infertility meant she was referred for IVF on the NHS 'At one point I got frustrated because Mathew though I wasn't pushing hard enough when I really was. I think when he finally came out people realised what I had been up against,' she said Charlotte was thrilled to fall pregnant in July 2015 after her unexplained infertility meant she was referred for IVF on the NHS. The former sales executive and her window cleaner fiance, Mathew, had been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for several years. Charlotte said: We were over the moon when the IVF worked first time, just ecstatic to finally be pregnant. Her 12-week and 20-week scan showed the baby was measuring normally, but a private 4D scan at 27 weeks did indicate Rory was already a good size. She said: I got told he was about 3lbs at that stage but Im tall at 5ft 11in so I think people expected that Rory would be big.' But nobody predicted how big when Charlotte drew up her plan for a natural delivery. After going two weeks over her 22 April due date, Charlotte said she looked and felt enormous. She was induced on May 3 and Rory finally made his appearance at 9.04am after an exhaustive labour. Charlotte said: I started pushing at around 7am but no matter how hard I pushed, nothing happened. I was giving it everything I had and getting nowhere. At one point I got frustrated because Mathew though I wasnt pushing hard enough when I really was. I think when he finally came out people realised what I had been up against. Before weighing Rory, his mother estimated him to be approximately nine pounds, so when they put him on the scales and he registered 12 pounds 7 oz everyone was shocked Rory now weighs just shy of 20lbs and gets mistaken for a six-month-old baby When his head appeared the midwife called for back up and many more medics appeared to help delivered Rory. It took several more pushes for the rest of Rory to be born. When he finally come out everyone was stunned and saying how big he was. My partners first words were: "Charl he is huge." But I couldnt see it at first, he just looked like a gorgeous little baby to me. Before weighing Rory, his mother estimated him to be approximately nine pounds, so when they put him on the scales and he registered 12 pounds 7 oz everyone was shocked. Charlotte said: I couldnt believe it. I mean that is twice the size of most newborns. Surprisingly given the size of her baby, she needed little repair work and was back on her feet within a few hours. She said: When they took me to the ward and I saw him next to other newborns that is when it hit home how big he really was. I met another mum and we put them side by side and nobody could believe I had really just pushed him out myself. He looked like a giant, bless him. Charlottes carefully chosen newborn outfits had to remain in her bag, far too small for Rory, who instead had to be covered in a blanket. Meanwhile best friend and birthing partner Katie Webb, 23, rushed to the shops with Charlottes mum for more babygrows age six months. 'We are very grateful to the staff at the hospital for delivering our little hunk safely,' she said Even Charlotte didn't fare too badly considering the size of her baby, and was back on her feet looking after him within hours of the birth. The only problem they faced was Rory was too big for all the carefully chosen newborn outfits his mother had packed Charlotte said: I spent months planning what I was going to dress him in for his first photo and when it came down to it he had to wear a 2 Asda baby grow because its all I had that would go anywhere near him But none of that matters, all that matters is he is fit and well. We are very grateful to the staff at the hospital for delivering our little hunk safely. She was discharged two days later. Rory now weighs just shy of 20lbs and gets mistaken for a six-month-old baby. She said: People do not believe me when I tell them how old he is. Its only when you see him move that you know his age. Hes our little miracle now in more ways than one. Another optical illusion with creatures hiding in the image is testing even the most eagle-eyed. The image, created by artist Steve Read, who created a similar puzzle featuring tigers, has 15 pandas - but people are struggling to find all of them. As well as the three creatures in the foreground of the image, there are 12 more hidden in the foliage and rocks around them. Scroll down for the reveal! Another optical illusion with creatures hiding in the image is testing even the most eagle-eyed One panda's face hides in the clouds while another is created with the leaves of the bamboo. A tiny little panda is peeking around in the rocks by the family of pandas' feet while another hides in the breast feathers of a bird. A panda's face hides in the fur of one of the parent bear's body, looking from a distance like shadow. The image, created by artist Steve Read, who created a similar puzzle featuring tigers, has twelve pandas disguised in the background of a scene of bears This image is just another in a long line of puzzles that have been sweeping the internet. Another from from Playbuzz put Disney fans to the test recently. In this crowded scene, princesses Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas,and Ariel are all hidden. But how quickly can you spot them? In this crowded scene, princesses Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas,and Ariel are all hidden. But how quickly can you spot them? This quiz is certainly a tricky one. Although some princesses - including Belle and Pocahontas are fairly easy to spot, Snow White, Ariel, Jasmine and Cinderella are a little bit trickier. Some Playbuzz users have even noticed that there are more princesses than the six you have been challenged to find - Auroa from Sleeping Beauty can be spotted in the top and centre, as well as Kida from Atlantis and Mulan. How many did you spot? Some Playbuzz users have even noticed that there are more princesses than the six you have been challenged to find - Auroa from Sleeping Beauty can be spotted in the top and centre, as well as Kida from Atlantis and Mulan Last week, a puzzle put film buffs to the ultimate test with a dense crowd scene in which every image references a movie. The challenge is whether you can identify the clues and name the cinematic work that inspired it. Take the test to see how many you get right... The crowded scene created by Playbuzz is set on a tarmac foreground with buildings to the left and right and a backdrop of the Hollywood sign, over which birds wheel through the sky and starships appear to be fighting each other. This crowd scene is filled with clues but can you identify them and name all 50 films it references? A lone turret is up in flames, while a chasm appears to be opening up in the hillside while the rest of the image appears to depict chaos. Some clues are more literal than others, for instance a man playing a violin atop a building brings to mind the famous musical starring Topol. Fingers tightly closed around some US currency, also accurately depicts a classic US film. In fact, the test will appeal to those with a wealth of knowledge about Hitchcock films (five clues) and famous directors Martin Scorese hits (three films) and George Lucas (two). Three cartoons pop up, along with two classic Second World War flicks, musicals also have a place, while a Audrey Hepburn film is included along with one of Patrick Swayze's most loved works. Ridley Scott films are also featured, with one of them providing one of the easiest visual aids. HOW MANY DID YOU SPOT? 1 Cat On A Hot Tin Roof 2 The Towering Inferno 3 The Birds 4 Star Wars 5 Breakfast At Tiffany's 6 Fiddler On The Roof 7 The Piano 8 Ghost 9 42nd Street 10 Jamaica Inn 11 Gone With The Wind 12 The Last Picture Show 13 School of Rock 14 The Dam Busters 15 Chariots of Fire 16 Gaslight 17 Mean Streets 18 A Fistful Of Dollars 19 The Sting 20 Blazing Saddles 21 Wall-e 22 The 39 Steps 23 Dances With Wolves 24 The Graduate 25 Singing' In The Rain 26 Batman 27 Seven Brides For Seven Brothers 28 Lady And The Tramp 29 Guys And Dolls 30 Toy Story 31 The Black Dahlia 32 Clockwork Orange 33 North By Northwest 34 Gladiator 35 Blade Runner 36 Jaws 37 Shakespeare In Love 38 Bad Santa 39 The Lion King 40 American Pie 41 Top Hat 42 Happy Feet 43 Shane 44 Raging Bull 45 Taxi Driver 46 The Eagle Has Landed 47 All About Eve 48 American Graffiti 49 The Queen 50 Edward Scissorhands Advertisement This ultimate film test is just the latest in a slew of optical illusions that are driving the internet wild. Another brain teaser revealed how even photographs are not always what they seem. A picture emerged this week that appears to show a beautiful scene of a lake, with mountains in the distance. But can you spot what is really going on? The image appears to show a beautiful scene of a lake, with mountains in the distance. But can you spot what is really going on? If you look extremely closely you'll see that the landscape doesn't include any water at all. What appears to be a the lake is in fact a concrete wall obscuring part of the scenery, with the shrub growing on the other side. It is one of the trickiest optical illusions on the web, that baffled many who simply couldn't spot what was really being pictured in the image. If you look extremely closely you'll see that the scene is not, in fact, of a lake. Instead, the photograph is showing a concrete wall Back in 2015, the infamous 'dress' divided internet users, who simply could not agree over whether it was black and blue or gold and white - with even Kim Kardashian and Taylor Swift joining in on the debate. One year later, the Adidas jacket did the same, with people saying that they saw numerous colour combinations, including blue and white, green and gold, black and brown, and green and brown. And this week a new colour spectrum illusion emerged to frustrate the nation, proving once again that our perceptions of colour can be very different from each other. Is this colour blue or green? When asked to name the colour above, 64 per of respondents said that it was green, with 32 per cent believing it to be blue Optical Express surveyed the UK public with the seemingly simple task of identifying shades of blue and green, as part of a study into our perception of colour. When asked to name the colour, 64 per of respondents said that it was green, with 32 per cent believing it to be blue. However, when asked to name the same colour adjacent to two distinctly blue images, many changed their minds - with 90 per cent then stating that it was green. The shade is indeed more green than blue. According to the RGB colour spectrum, the values of the colour are 0, 122 and 116. However, when asked to name the same colour adjacent to two distinctly blue images, many changed their minds - with 90 per cent then stating that it was green Back in 2015, the infamous 'dress' divided internet users, who simply could not agree over whether it was black and blue or gold and white - with even Kim Kardashian and Taylor Swift joining in on the debate. One year later, the Adidas jacket (right) did the same WHY DO WE SEE COLOURS DIFFERENTLY? Every single person is unique and as a result, our brains process information differently. Depending on how you interpret colours, one person might see it one way, while the very next person who looks at it might see it differently. Light enters the eye and hits the retina, which is the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The light is converted to an electrical signal which travels along the Optic Nerve to the Visual Cortex in the brain. The brain makes its own unique interpretation of this electrical signal. It is not surprising that many respondents changed their mind when seeing the colour in contrast to the two blue shades, as we perceive an objects colour based on a comparison to its surrounding shades, not on the actual colour itself. Assessing colour vision is just one of the myriad of examinations that can be undertaken during a routine sight test. Its possible for colour blindness to go undetected depending on severity - as its impossible to see the world through another persons eyes. Conditions such as protanomaly, deuteranomaly and tritanomaly can range from inconvenient to quite dangerous - often preventing those inflicted from pursuing certain careers. If you have any concerns about your colour perception, you should seek an appointment with a registered optometrist. Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express Advertisement People also had their brain tested by the 'perception test', that challenged quizzers to answer a series of quickfire questions. The test began by setting out the rules: 'Answer the following questions loudly and as quickly as possible. Don't think too much and don't cheat!' The challenge, tjhat was also created by Playbuzz, went through a series of animal pictures, asking you to name what each one is. Internet users are being challenged to test their brain power in a new quiz - which the majority of people will fail The quiz goes through a series of animal pictures, asking you to name what each one is Quiz takers are required to answer the following questions loudly and as quickly as possible The rules stated at the beginning of the quiz add: 'Don't think too much and don't cheat!' The test surprises the quiz taker by throwing out a completely different question: 'Name one city in the USA' The photographs feature a cute-looking cat, a guinea pic and a cow. The test then surprises the quiz taker by throwing out a completely different question: 'Name one city in the USA.' So what did you say? According to the creators of the quiz, 92 per cent of people answer New York under pressure. But if you're one of the few people that named a different city, it shows you've got a creative and innovative mind. Riddle number one - how quickly can you answer it? Riddle number two is 'What is the ancient invention that allows people to see through walls?' A series of riddles posted on Bored Panda also sought to test lateral thinking as well as general knowledge. Five conundrums included: 'What was the largest island in the world before Australia was discovered?' and 'What can you hold in your right hand, but not in your left?' Riddle number three: Which room is the safest out of one full of raging fires, another with assassins with loaded guns and another with lions who haven't eaten in years? And riddle number four asks 'What rock group has four met that don't sing?' And the fifth riddle is 'What can you hold in your right hand, but not in your left?' Riddle number one is 'What was the largest island in the world before Australia was discovered?'. While riddle number two asks 'This ancient invention allows people to see through walls. What is it?' A third question asks: 'Which room is the safest out of one full of raging fires, another with assassins with loaded guns and another with lions who haven't eaten in years?'. And the fourth riddle reads: 'What rock group has four men that don't sing?' Riddle number five is: 'What can you hold in your right hand, but not in your left?'. Scroll down to read the answers and to see how many you got right. Number 1: The answer to 'What was the largest island in the world before Australia was discovered?' Number 2: 'What is the ancient invention that allows people to see through walls?' - a window The answer to riddle number three, 'Which room is the safest out of one full of raging fires, another with assassins with loaded guns and another with lions who haven't eaten in years?', is the third one, as the lions died of starvation Answer 4: The riddle 'What rock group has four men that don't sing?' has 'mount Rushmore' as the answer The answer to 'what rock group has four men that don't sing' is a pun on the faces carved into Mount Rushmore. They are indeed a group of men in a rock group, but they definitely don't sing! And the answer to the fifth riddle, 'What can you hold in your right hand, but not in your left?', is 'Your left hand' Answer one is that the island was still there, just undiscovered, while number two is a window, number three is the third room as the lions couldn't survive without food, the fourth answer is Mount Rushmore, while the fifth riddle's answer is your left hand. The answer to 'what rock group has four men that don't sing' is a pun on the human faces carved into Mount Rushmore. They are indeed a group of men in a rock group, but they definitely don't sing. Sometimes the easiest-sounding brain teasers are the most difficult ones. And one of the latest puzzle to sweep the web certainly plays by those rules. Created by a PlayBuzz user, this colour photo depicts a grey car seat with a mysterious object hidden on it that it's up to you to find At first, the secret object is impossible to find. However, after a more detailed search you can spot a grey iPad lying flat on the back on the seat Created by a PlayBuzz user, this colour photo depicts a grey car seat with a mysterious object hidden on it that it's up to you to find. At first, the secret object is impossible to find. However, after a more detailed search you can spot a grey iPad lying flat on the back on the seat. The iPad is well-camouflaged because it's the same colour as the seat, with similar markings. Another brainteaser to have swept the web depicts a happy-looking holiday scene. The latest brainteaser to have swept the web depicts a happy-looking holiday scene A dad can be seen peacefully reading a newspaper while his two children fish beside him - one successfully managing to reel in a big one. But within the scene, six holiday-themed words have been hidden, and the challenge is to spot them all. Four of the six words, including 'tree' and 'boy' are relatively easy to spot. However, the other two are slightly more difficult. The version of the picture with rings around the words shows how many you got right - or simply failed to spot. Within the scene, six holiday-themed words have been hidden, and the challenge is to spot them all Year five pupils at a primary school in Glossop, Derbyshire, were left as stumped as their parents by a question which asked them to 'calculate the perimeter of these composite rectilinear shapes'. One dad, 43, was so baffled that he turned to social media, appealing for help in solving the question. As the Manchester Evening News reported, he wrote on Facebook: 'My sons grandma had spent a while helping him with his homework and most of it was straightforward but this one question left her stumped. The maths puzzle was given to year five pupils at a school in Glossop, Derbyshire 'I then spent an hour or so trying to work it out but found it impossible. 'I really do think it is impossible and it is certainly not something a ten-year-old can answer.' On social media, many have claimed that the answer is 44cm for both - but not everyone is in agreement. Another puzzle recently swept the internet, with many trying to solve it using advanced mathematics then kicking themselves when they realised the real solution. Antley Lamont Staten posted this brainteaser on Facebook, which has been shared more than 370,000 times. The puzzle shows a grid of nine numbers and a sign next to it asking people to share the image when they find the error. Yet another puzzle is sweeping the internet, this time boggling the minds of everybody with its deceptively simple answer, above Lots of people have been trying but failing to solve what they think is a mathematical equation on the right side. One wrote: 'It' s 4 and 5. 3 + 6=9 2+5=7 not 8 and 1+4=5 not 7. That's how I looked at it.' However, the answer is that 'mitsake' is spelled wrong. Theodore O'Connell II wrote: 'This is funny. Most people will pay more attention to the numbers and not the spelling of the sign.' Pat Ireland said: 'Just shows that it's true - most of us only see the first and last letter of a word.' Many have been trying to solve the riddle with advanced mathematics, but were probably left kicking themselves when they realised the real solution. The answer is that 'mitsake' is spelled wrong It came after another very tricky puzzle challenged the internet to find a gherkin hidden among a whole host of burger ingredients. The brainteaser features a solitary gherkin mixed in with beef burgers, fries and other tasty-looking garnishes. The challenge is made even more difficult because of all the other green items featured, including salad leaves, cucumber and avocado slices. The brainteaser features a solitary gherkin mixed in with beef burgers, fries and other tasty-looking garnishes The visual puzzle was created by illustrator Sally-Ann Heron for food delivery service Deliveroo. The 25-year-old said: 'I kept forgetting where it was myself, while I was drawing it. I was really hungry by the time I'd finished it.' The gherkin is actually hidden towards the bottom left of the image, behind an onion ring and a beef burger. It's not the only food-themed puzzle to have internet users scratching their heads in recent weeks. The gherkin is actually hidden towards the bottom left of the image, behind an onion ring and a beef burger In April, popular high street bakers Greggs posted a pasty puzzle that showed a lone cheese and onion bake in a pile of steak slices. The brainteaser was inspired by the Where's Wally-style puzzles challenging people to spot animals amongst throngs of creatures that have been sweeping the net in recent months. For those not familiar with the baker's offerings, picking out the pasty proved difficult. This optical illusion has had pasty lovers scratching their heads - and rubbing their stomachs The eagle-eyed spotted that the difference lies in the patterns of the pasties. While the steak bakes feature diagonal lines, the cheese and onion bake is scored with a V-shaped design. The lone cheese and onion bake is hidden at the bottom right corner of the puzzle. The cheese and onion bake is tucked away in the bottom right hand corner (circled in red) Optical illusions have also been messing with people's heads, playing with the way that the brain processes colour. This psychedelic pattern appears to show green, blue and pink swirls - but not all is as it seems. The blue and green spirals are actually exactly the same bright green colour, as shown by a close-up picture. If you test it out yourself on Photoshop, you will find the colour's RBG code is R=0, G=255, B=150. The optical illusion was created by Akiyoshi Kitaoka, a Japanese professor of psychology. Most of us think the spirals are blue and green because of the Munker Illusion. Simply put, our brains process an object's colour based on what's next to it. It is not the only optical illusions that has been taking the internet by storm in recent weeks. The geniuses at Playbuzz have challenged brain teaser boffs to see if they can solve four colour-based puzzles. The second puzzle shows a list of colours, written in five different colours. The words do not correspond with the colour they are written in, for example 'green' is written in blue But all is not what it seems and, as the creators say, 'only the keenest eyes can pass!'. The first optical illusion shows 12 coloured squares. Participants are asked how many different colours they can see - excluding white. They are asked to solve the challenge in fewer than seven seconds. The second puzzle shows a list of colours, written in five different colours. The words do not correspond with the colour they are written in, for example 'green' is written in blue. Participants are asked how many colours are named, and have to solve the challenge within nine seconds - which is far less straightforward than it seems. The big reveal: Participants are asked how many colours are named, and have to solve the challenge within nine seconds In the third puzzle, brain teaser boffs are given an image of 25 black squares, with a white space between them - and asked how many colours they can see In the third puzzle, brain teaser boffs are given an image of 25 black squares, with a white space between them - and asked how many colours they can see. Some challengers may see grey marks at the intersections between the squares. However, the grey is an optical illusion and the only colours there are black and white. Some challengers may see grey marks at the intersections between the squares The task in the fourth and final puzzle seems simple enough - to ascertain which orange dot is bigger The task in the fourth and final puzzle seems simple enough - to ascertain which orange dot is bigger. At a first glance, it appears as though the dot on the right-hand-side is larger than the one on the left. However, this brain teaser is all about perspective and in fact the dots are exactly the same size. At a first glance, it appears as though the dot on the right-hand-side is larger than the one on the left. However, this brain teaser is all about perspective and in fact the dots are exactly the same size This is the latest brain-teaser taking the internet by storm, inviting people to take on the challenge in fewer than five seconds Internet users were also challenged to see if they could spot what was wrong in this sentence, above, that listed a colourful series of numbers above - in fewer than five seconds. Reading both text and numbers at a quick pace can result in skipping bits out - which many people who failed to spot the mistake have fallen foul of here. The numbers, which are in colour, attract the eye and the reader may automatically find themselves checking those for a mistake. In fact, the error is hidden in the text informing you that there is a mistake to spot. The results, circled in red, show that the mistake is the fact that the word 'the' has been written twice Those with a keen eye for detail, and practised in the art of speed-reading, will have noticed that the word 'the' is written twice. The puzzle is a slight detour from the current trend of Where's Wally-style quizzes. After a spate of illustrations in which a panda was hidden amongst snowmen, Star Wars figures, elephants. The craze was sparked by Hungarian illustrator Dudas in December 2015 with he drew a group of snowmen and sneaked in a lone panda amongst them. Six months later the craze for puzzles shows no sign of abating, Dudas, or Dudolf as he is known when drawing, spawned the Where's waldo-style internet puzzle craze back in December last year when he asked fans to find the panda hidden in these snowmen The image of the panda was shared hundreds of thousands of times as it captivated internet users who eventually found him here Dudolf followed up with a series of wide-eyed owls and challenged viewers to spot the cat hidden amongst them. The birds are depicted in bow ties, and top hats and they're drawn looking in a variety of directions. With their big eyes and pointy feathers it's almost impossible to locate the lone feline in the group. Capitalizing on his new-found fame, Dudolf quickly followed up with this image of wide-eyed owls, this time challenging people to find the cat concealed among them The key to tracking the elusive feline down proved to be the difference between the owls' beaks and the cat's Y-shaped mouth (pictured) Reddit user Oneste stuck with the panda theme, but this time drew the fuzzy creature hiding among a group of Stormtroopers to mark the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. There amongst Imperial troops including Stormtroopers, Speeder Biker riders and Snowtroopers, is a single panda with the same black and white colouring as the other figures. Then, in February this year to mark Oscar season, illustrator Michael Rogalski hid a golden statuette among a group of C3PO droids from the Star Wars films and drove the internet mad looking for it. Reddit user Oneste also got in on the act by hiding another panda in among this group of Stormtroopers A teenager living on benefits has revealed she is trying for a baby despite struggling to stretch her weekly income to cover a basic supermarket shop. Nineteen-year-old Chantal, from Newport, spends her government money on expensive takeaways and complains her council flat is 'too small to swing a cat in', but has been trying to fall pregnant for over a year. Chantal, who appears on Channel Five documentary, On Benefits: Life on the Dole this evening, alongside her boyfriend Wain reveals: Weve been trying for a baby for about a year and a half.' Chantal, who appears on Channel Five documentary, On Benefits: Life on the Dole this evening, alongside her boyfriend Wain reveals: Weve been trying for a baby for about a year and a half' Ive always wanted a baby I've always thought it would be nice and Id spoil my child rotten,' she says. The teenager, who is shown spending over 100 of her 115 weekly government grant in one morning on takeaways before declaring 'I feel sick as a pig now', believes she could bring up a baby on benefits. Some people cant live on benefits with a baby. Some people can. I reckon I could live with a baby on benefits,' she says. When you are pregnant you can actually get a maternity grant which means they give the money to buy the cot and the pram and things like that.' Sharing her ideas on motherhood, she muses: 'It would probably be the same as a dog. No maybe not. It would probably be more, wouldnt it.' Showing she has some understanding of work ethic, she adds: 'Not all people have children - some people have careers. Chantal says: I reckon I could live with a baby on benefits,' she says. Sharing her ideas on motherhood, she muses: 'It would probably be the same as a dog. No maybe not. It would probably be more wouldnt it' As well as financial help from the government, the teenager says she would also receive help from family. Sharing her own mothers advice on having children she reveals: 'She says it does get easier but sometimes it can get harder. But she says not to have more than two. She says three is a nightmare.' Chantal and Wain reveal their own mothers are so keen to become grandparents that they often buy the couple gifts for their yet-to-be-conceived grandchild, including an old fashioned pram. 'They cost, like, a grand, she boasts. The teenager said that her boyfriend Wain, who has been claiming benefits for three months, could get a job if he tries to. Chantal, pictured with Wain, believes she could bring up a baby on benefits. She says: 'Ive never worked full time... or part time...never in all my life' He could go and get a job like his dad or his brother because obviously they work for different companies. He could get a job just like that,' she says. 'But he chooses not to.' Wain adds: I dont want to be cleaning buses you know what I mean. Its just taking the mick. 'Cleanings not my thing,' he says, and reveals he would rather 'be stocking shelves'. I dont want to be cleaning buses you know what I mean. Its just taking the mick Of her own aspirations Chantal says: 'I've always wanted to either work as a barmaid or at a superstore.' The teenager is also shown posting selfies, struggling to calculate the age of her three-year-old dog and pawning watches to buy 'tobacco and munchies'. Complaining about her council accommodation, a city centre apartment, which is kept in a state of squalor. The teenager says of her kitchen: 'You cant swing a cat in it.' 'Its so small, its not even square I dont know what shape it is. On one occasion she is shown heading home from the job centre after securing her 115 a week benefit to scour the Argos catalogue for an engagement ring. She also shown discussing how her benefit money can stretch to body art. Chantal finds searching for employment online frustrating: 'There are more job opportunities in Cardiff than Newport. There are only two in Newport' The next time she receives a pay cheque she spends it on takeaways including chicken strips, egg fried rice, a pot of chicken wings and four Yorkshire puddings. Describing how easily she her funds are depleted she says: 'The maximum it lasts is three hours it just comes in in one hand and goes in the other.' Discussing work opportunities she says: 'Ive never worked full time... or part time...never in all my life. 'In school I had to go on work experience. I did it in McDonald's and just had to serve customers. It was crap - but I did it.' 'Id love to look after old people,' she reveals. But Chantal finds searching for employment online frustrating: 'There are more job opportunities in Cardiff than Newport. There are only two in Newport.' South Wales was once home to Britain's biggest coal mines and steal works, which once employed over a quarter of a million workers. Now, there are close to 200,000 people claiming benefits, of which Chantal is one. An 18-year-old waitress who was told to wear a skirt and make up to look 'more attractive to customers' has revealed how she found the experience 'mortifying'. Erin Sandilands, from West Kilbride, Ayrshire, has just won a sexual discrimination claim, and appeared on Good Morning Britain today to describe her 'humiliating' ordeal. Speaking to Ben Shephard and Susanna Reid, Erin said: It's so embarrassing, at only 18, to be told that youre not feminine enough. Erin Sandilands, from West Kilbride, Ayrshire, has just won a sexual discrimination claim, and appeared on Good Morning Britain today to describe her 'humiliating' ordeal Being a girl in this day and age is hard enough as it is, conforming to all the stereotypes let alone being told that youre not feminine enough. She added: 'It made me feel uncomfortable that they wanted me to look better for them. I'm there to do a job, I'm not there for them to look at.' She was also joined by Laura Bates, founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, who said: 'This is something that disproportionately impacts on women,' comparing Erin's ordeal to when Nicola Sturgeon was announced as First Minister and found her wardrobe being mercilessly scrutinised. Erin told how she was asked by her manager to wear her hair down and dress in a way that was 'easy on the eye' while serving at Cecchini's bistro in Ardrossan, Ayrshire. The student refused, and the following day she was told she would no longer be given shifts. Erin was also joined by Laura Bates, founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, who said: 'This is something that disproportionately impacts on women' She has now been awarded 3,500 following an employment tribunal, which found she had been subject to a 'degrading and humiliating' working environment. Erin said: 'I'm delighted with the result. I did not think it would be that successful. I was quite reluctant to go to a tribunal, because I had never done anything like that before. 'I would just like people to know what sort of business they are. It's not an establishment I'd like other girls to work at.' Erin started working at Cecchini's bistro in September last year and was told the staff dress code was a black shirt with a black trousers or skirt. A month later her manager took her aside and asked her to wear a skirt and her hair down, as well as make up, to make her more attractive to customers. Erin questioned what difference her appearance made to her duties, pointing out that since she was handling food it made more sense for her hair to be tied back. Humiliated: Erin Sandilands, 18, was told to wear a skirt and make up to look 'easy on the eye' at work The following day the teenager, who was on a zero-hour contract, was told she would not be offered more shifts. She said: 'When it happened it was completely unnecessary. I was dressed smartly and was wearing the uniform as it had been described to me. 'They said I should wear a skirt and make-up and put my hair up and be more feminine. They said that the punters would like that. I felt utterly humiliated and upset. 'I argued that I was dressed smartly, but the very next day I found out I wouldn't be getting any more shifts. It made me very angry.' A friend who also worked at the restaurant told the tribunal she had her hours increased at around the same time. The restaurant was also said to be heading into a busy period and had hired a new member of staff. In her judgement, tribunal judge Claire McManus said she found Erin's evidence to be 'entirely credible'. Erin said: 'I'm delighted with the result. I did not think it would be that successful. I was quite reluctant to go to a tribunal, because I had never done anything like that before' Discrimination: Miss Sandilands, left, was asked by her manager to wear her hair down and dress so that she was 'easy on the eye' while serving customers. Pictured right, Anthony Cecchini, owner of the restaurant She said the comments made by her manager amounted to discrimination towards Miss Sandilands because she was female, as he would not have made them to a male employee. The written judgement also found that his conduct amounted to harassment in a 'degrading and humiliating' working environment. Erin was awarded 2,500 in compensation for the injury to her feelings and 1,060 in lost wages. Anthony Cecchini, owner of the restaurant, said: 'The allegations are untrue, and we intend to appeal this decision.' Speaking at her home today, Miss Sandilands said: 'Young girls shouldn't feel like they have to look a certain way to have a job, they should be allowed to just be themselves without sleazy comments.. 'It's really off putting when somebody speaks to you like that at work. The employment tribunal found Miss Sandilands had been subject to a 'degrading and humiliating' working environment at Cecchini's bistro in Ardrossan, Ayrshire, pictured 'When it came to applying for another job I was discouraged from applying for things in the local area because I didn't want to be know as the girl who was sacked for not being feminine enough. 'It still affects me in the way that I feel I now. I know it's not expected of me, but in the back of my head I still hear the comments telling me to look a certain way and seem more attractive. 'It's always in the back of my head that I've been told once before that I'm not feminine enough, I'm scared to go through that again." It's the go-to location for high society figures who want to throw an unforgettable party. And Russian fur designer Violetta Nakhimova is the latest bride to throw a lavish wedding at Moscow millionaire's hotspot Safisa. The upmarket restaurant hosted the nuptials of billionaire's son Said Gutseriev, 28, and student Khadija Uzhakhovs, 20, in March, and earlier this month another billionaire's offspring Sargis Karapetyan, 23, and his bride Salome Kintsurashvili, 25, also married in the luxurious surroundings. Scroll down for video Russian fur designer Violetta Nakhimova is the latest bride to throw a lavish wedding at Moscow millionaire's hotspot Safisa The seven tier iced wedding cake stood more than six feet high The happy couple stat on white throne style chairs at the top table during the meal While not quite in the millionaire league, Violetta's celebrations certainly did not disappoint her guests. Arriving by white horse drawn carriage to meet her groom, Daniel, the bride stunned in a white gown with a cream lace overlay. It featured a train that stretched for several feet behind her and a voluminous skirt with layer upon layer of tulle petticoat underneath. The bride has her own fur fashion label Admiral by Violetta Nakhimova, which describes itself as a 'sophisticated fusion of rich Russian heritage and Italian craftsmanship'. The bride chats on her phone as finishing touches are arranged for the celebrations The voluminous skirt of the bride's dress featured layer upon layer of tulle petticoat Her pieces include coats, wraps and hats made from fur such as mink, chinchilla and Arctic fox. The Creative Director and lead designer, was born and raised in Russia, where she trained at the Moscow University of Design & Technology. She also studied at the Modapelle Academy in Milan and now divides her time between the Italian city, Moscow and London. The happy couple delighted their guests with a traditional dance Violetta changed into another beautiful gown to continue the party for a second day, wearing a delicate pink gown with an all over embellishment of pink and white petals A group of drummers heralded the bride's arrival at Safisa The opulent Safisa has become the wedding venue of choice for high society figures in Moscow The stylish bride carried a bunch of white and pink roses and wore a long veil, which her husband placed over her face as they made their way into the venue as guests captured the moment on camera for Instagram. The bride's arrival was heralded by a quartet of drummers in smart military style uniforms, and once inside, she removed her jacket to reveal the delicate lace top and sleeves of her dress. For the meal, the happy couple sat on white throne style chairs at the top table, which was decorated with the same white and pink roses as the bride's bouquet. Daniel leads his bride to the floor for their first dance Violetta performing a traditional dance while guests looked on. Five hundred people were invited to the lavish celebrations The groom greets his bride at the start of the ceremony while guests capture the moment on camera A guest poses alongside the couple's towering wedding cake Five hundred guests were invited to the lavish celebrations, which were amazingly planned in just four months after Violetta announced her engagement to Daniel in February. They were delighted when the bride and groom took to the dancefloor to perform a traditional dance later in the evening, with many capturing the moment on film for Instagram. One day of celebrating was not enough and the wedding continued into the following day. This season's sexiest trend is the off-the-shoulder top. But how do you accessorize the skin-baring silhouette to highlight your shoulders and collarbone? Ditch last year's statement necklace and instead look to stylish stars Kourtney Kardashian, 37, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 29, who both paired their tops with sleek chokers. Or, draw attention to your decolletage while keeping the upper body bare by reaching for a pair of statement earrings like Sofia Vergara, 43, and Nicole Richie, 34. Here, FEMAIL rounds up the chicest off-the-shoulder tops and the hottest jewels to pair with them. PAIR AN OFF-THE-SHOULDER TOP WITH A CHOKER Trendsetters: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 29, (left) paired her navy shoulder-baring Galvan jumpsuit with a thin gold choker, while Kourtney Kardashian, 37, (right) rocked her striped Finders Keepers off-the-shoulder top with a thick black velvet choker SHOP IT NOW Simple solids: Left: Warehouse top, $52, warehouse-london.com & Forever 21 choker, $3.90, forever21.com . Right: Pixie Market top, $89, pixiemarket.com & Jules Smith choker, $98, shopbop.com Playful prints: Left: Tibi top, $345, tibi.com & Jil Sander choker, Now $163.24, farfetch.com . Right: Boohoo top, $16, boohoo.com & Asos choker, $12.94 for 2, asos.com Classic stripes: Left: River Island top, $50, riverisland.com & Jennifer Zeuner choker, $121, shopbop.com. Right: Derek Lam 10 Crosby top, Now $158, farfetch.com & Jaimie Nicole choker, $75, shoptiques.com PAIR AN OFF-THE-SHOULDER TOP WITH STATEMENT EARRINGS Make a statement: While Nicole Richie, 34, (left) paired her House of Harlow striped off-the-shoulder top with a pair of simple gold shoulder-dusting drop earrings, Sofia Vergara, 43, (right) jazzed up her ruffled Alexander McQueen top with bold earrings by Liza Echeverry SHOP IT NOW Fancy tassels: Left: Zara top, $49.90, zara.com & BaubleBar earrings, $34, baublebar.com. Right: Johanna Ortiz top, $990, modaoperandi.com & Oscar de la Renta earrings, Now $205.40, neimanmarcus.com Romantic ruffles: Left: Apiece Apart top, Now $193, net-a-porter.com & Jennifer Fisher earrings, $355, jenniferfisherjewelry.com. Right: Caroline Constas top, $385, intermixonline.com & Moonrise Jewelry earrings, $69, shoptiques.com A group of teenagers in Quebec have raised over $5,000 for cancer research by getting their heads shaved. The students, from Saint-Leonard-d'Aston, included four girls with very long locks, and one boy, who all interrupted their own prom for the event. Already dolled up for the night - even with their hair beautifully styled - the teens snapped plenty of farewell photos of themselves before getting into the hairdresser's chair. Scroll down for video For a good cause: Five teenagers in Saint-Leonard-d'Aston, Quebec, raised more than $5,200 for cancer research by having their heads shaved at their prom The before shot: The group included four long-haired girls and one boy, and were filmed by CBC undergoing the haircuts In a video report by CBC, two of the girls in the group are seen sitting down in front of two hair stylists before being covered with capes. Their hair is tied into sections all over their heads, and each chunk held together with several more elastics down the length of the strands. As they prepare to be free of their locks, one of the young girls begins to tear up, overcome with emotion. An interviewer asked her why she has become so emotional, and she responds in French: 'Because I am proud.' Sitting down: The kids sat down for the process after taking plenty of photos with their hairstyles in their prom outfits Getting teary: One of the teens is overcome with emotion as she prepares to have her head shaved, telling the reporters that is crying 'because I am proud' The chunks of hair are sliced off one by one before the stylists break out the trimmers to take their hair down to nearly nothing. In the end, the group of teens raised over $5,200 for a cancer foundation thanks to their efforts. The CBC video of the teens' kind gesture has been viewed more than half a million times since yesterday, and been shared more than 3,000 times. The kids also received plenty of praise for the stunt in the comments. Comparing: The girls show each other their shorn locks with big smiles of pride Snip, snip: The chunks of hair are sliced off one by one before they bust out the trimmers to give the girls a close shave Congratulations: The girls give each other a big hug before heading right back to enjoy the prom 'What a wonderful thing to do and we tend to think that teens are just about themselves . Actually I believe that most teens are very smart respectful kind and have good manners,' said one Facebook user. 'So congratulations to these very thoughtful teens as well as all the teens across our great country.' A man who cut out his penis piercing with a razor blade was horrified when it became infected and the skin started to die. The 26-year-old had to have all the skin removed from his manhood after it became rotten. The patient, from Suriname, South America, said he had put several 'nodules' into his penis 10 years ago as an act of teenage rebellion. These are small pieces of plastic, glass or metal that are usually implanted by men who like how they look or feel or to increase pleasure for their sexual partner. A man who cut out his penis piercing with a razor blade was horrified when it became infected and the skin started to die He explained he had removed most of the nodules over the years, but the last one around one centimetre in diameter was still under his foreskin and started to hurt during sex. He noticed the skin of his penis had swollen around the nodule, and after a month, he decided to take matters into his own hands, said doctors describing the case in the journal BMJ Case Reports. Using a razor blade, he cut out the last nodule at home but was forced to go to hospital when it wouldnt heal a few days later. Doctors prescribed antibiotics but the wound deteriorated - becoming so infected he was referred to another hospital in Suriname's capital, Paramaribo, for further treatment. There, he told medics he was having difficulty urinating and his penis was swollen. When they examined it, they found the majority was covered with black plaques where the skin had become rotten and died and they reported a foul odour. Shocked, they also noticed a lymph node in his left groin was enlarged due to the horrific infection. The patient was immediately admitted to hospital and a catheter was inserted. The 26-year-old had to have all the skin removed from his manhood after it became rotten - but two months later he reported it had healed and he had no problems during sex (file photo) This is a thin tube put into the urethra to pass urine and keep it away from the infected wound. Under local anaesthetic, doctors performed surgery to remove the dead skin from the shaft of his penis cutting away his entire foreskin. They sent swabs from his wounds to the laboratory to be tested, which revealed he was riddled with E.Coli and Staphylococcus bacteria, known to cause severe infections. After the catheter was removed, he was discharged and two weeks later tests showed the wound was no longer covered in bacteria. Next, he was referred to a plastic surgeon for a skin graft on his penis, but refused it, instead opting to wait and see how the he skin would heal on its own. After two months, he saw doctors for a check-up and reported it had healed well, and he wasn't having any problems during sex. In light of his case, doctors recommend penis nodules are removed by medically trained personnel. FOOD SQUIRREL PIE: ADVENTURES IN FOOD ACROSS THE GLOBE by Elisabeth Luard (Bloomsbury 16.99) The food we eat has always been a crucial part of who we are. This is the message at the heart of Elisabeth Luards book about her culinary travels around the world. The historical snippets she uncovers are fascinating. We learn that Hawaii was once known as the Sandwich Islands because Captain Cook (who discovered them) had been sponsored by the Earl of that name. When Marie Antoinette told her subjects to eat cake, she meant kugelhopf, a cross between cake and bread and an Austrian speciality (despite being the poster girl for the French royal family, she was actually born in Austria). And Harrods once had a branch in Buenos Aires, Argentina - the companys only foreign outpost. A crucial element of any book like this is that you trust the person leading you. Luard passes the test completely. How could you not warm to someone who likes the food in Lyon because theres a welcome absence of anything that smacks of molecular cuisine or art-on-a-plate? The variety of things eaten in different countries is staggering. The peasants of Crete survived World War II in good health because, although German invaders emptied food cupboards and slaughtered sheep and goats, they left the snails untouched. (One of the recipes included is for bouboutie, a snail broth whose name denotes the sound of shells bubbling in the pot.) Meanwhile, 19th-century convicts transported to Tasmania were so hungry they resorted to eating each other. They avoided going to sleep in case they woke up basted on the barbie. Luard tends to focus on the things that have stayed the same, the recipes handed down through the generations. In her case this means a copy of Mrs Beetons Book Of Household Management, complete with her grandmothers handwritten addition that the kangaroo tail soup is good enough' Even when our tastes are for the same thing, differences occur. Ethiopian workmen like coffee so much they add it to tea. And the French city of Arles has a coffee shop that isnt allowed a roaster because its neighbours complained about the smell - as Luard points out, its impossible to imagine objecting for a single instant to the fragrance of freshly roasted coffee wafting down the street. Theres even controversy over the direction in which you should slice ham: the Spanish cut Iberico with the grain, the Italians cut Parma ham against it. The fat in Iberico ham, incidentally, starts to melt at room temperature, causing it to stick to the plate - so to test if it is genuine, tilt your plate on its side. Food and the customs surrounding it are always changing. Indians began copying Western tourists in taking their tea without sugar: the result has been a dramatic improvement in the state of their teeth Indians began copying Western tourists in taking their tea without sugar: the result has been a dramatic improvement in the state of their teeth. Dentists now spend their time whitening teeth instead, as even the poorest want to look like Bollywood stars. But Luard tends to focus on the things that have stayed the same, the recipes handed down through the generations. In her case this means a copy of Mrs Beetons Book Of Household Management, complete with her grandmothers handwritten addition that the kangaroo tail soup is good enough but can be improved by a dram of whisky. Romanias dictator Nicolae Ceausescu insisted that people cook only state-approved recipes, ordering all traditional books to be burned. Everyone gave the police a book that didnt matter, recalls a veteran, and hid the real ones under the mattress. But the most powerful passages are those about Luards own life. A childhood as a diplomats stepdaughter taught her that home is a state of mind, portable as a penknife. And visiting Arles brings back memories of being there with her daughter Francesca, who died in her 20s. As she buys some chocolates, Luard thinks of the mourning cakes that used to be handed out at funerals to cheer the bereaved. Is it for a gift? asks the woman in the shop. Would you like a ribbon? Filmmaker Aanand L Rai celebrated his birthday in style on Tuesday - and the A-listers who turned out to celebrate proved his current run of success has won him plenty of friends in B-Town. The evenings big draw was Shah Rukh Khan, whose arrival set off a mini frenzy among the shutterbugs outside the party venue, a posh restaurant in Mumbai. SRK will soon team up with Rai for perhaps the most challenging role his life - as the filmmaker is readying a script that will see the superstar playing the part of a dwarf. Shah Rukh Khan (left), who is set to star as a dwarf in Aanand L Rai's new film, was among the guests at the filmmaker (right)'s birthday bash Rai has been among the most influential filmmakers in Kangana Ranaut's career, having directed the actress in Tanu Weds Manu, and Tanu Weds Manu Return Meanwhile, Kangana Ranaut arrived looking as pretty as ever in a long blue number with a shrug, and brown lace-up shoes. Rai has been among the most influential filmmakers in her career, having directed the actress in Tanu Weds Manu, and Tanu Weds Manu Returns. The latter film won Kangana her third National Award last year. Making jeans look good: Rajkummar Rao chose a casual look for the party in a swanky restaurant in Mumbai, as did actress Diana Penty The A-listers who turned out for the event, including Sidharth Malhotra (pictured), showed how Aanand L Rai's current run of success has won him quite a few influential friends in B-Town Huma Qureshi (left) looked stunning in a maxi dress by Michael Costello, while Aditi Rao Hydari (right) opted for a shorter patterned number for the glittering bash But by the time new-generation hunk Sidharth Malhotra arrived, it had started pouring heavily - leaving the actor making his way from his car to the party venue with an umbrella. Huma Qureshi, looking stunning in a maxi dress by Michael Costello, attended the bash with her brother Saqib Saleem. A program to help parents catch up on past-due child support has been extended through July. With the extension of time, we hope more parents will contact our program to see if they qualify for the project and enter into a reliable payment plan for their children, said Jim Fleming, director of the North Dakota Human Services Child Support Program. The Amnesty Project targets parents who have suspended driver's licenses or have warrants out for their arrest because they are far behind on child support. During the amnesty period, delinquent parents who set up payment plans may not be required to make down payments. And for every $2 they pay toward past-due support, the agency will let them write off $1 toward accrued interest or state-owed money. They can also get back their licenses and clear their warrants. Since the program launched in June, 22 parents have taken advantage of the match, Fleming said. Three of those people have paid their full past-due amounts. According to the department, about 2,000 state residents have had their licenses suspended because of child support obligations, and about 600 have warrants for their arrest. In total, nearly $259 million is owed in past-due support. Actor Salman Khan has responded to calls for an apology, following his controversial comments about how his latest role as a wrestler left him feeling like a 'raped woman'. The National Commission for Women (NCW) served a notice to the film star's legal team after the remarks, which he made in a recent group interview in Mumbai. The lawyers have now replied, and while the NCW refused to be drawn on the precise contents of the actor's response, the letter failed to include an apology. Salman Khan caused a wave of controversy when he said the demands of his latest film role as a wrestler left him feeling like a 'raped woman' NCW chairwoman Lalitha Kumaramangalam has now promised to set out the commission's next steps when it formally addresses the issue on 30 June. Salman has appeared far from apologetic during the backlash, and seemed to claim that his words had been blown out of proportion at a recent Bollywood awards night in Madrid. He said: 'I will not take much time because nowadays the less I speak the better it is.' NCW chairwoman Lalitha Kumaramangalam has promised to set out the commission's next steps when it formally addresses the issue tomorrow Controversy erupted earlier this month when Salman, while speaking to the press to promote his upcoming Eid release Sultan, said that the gruelling demands of his role as a wrestler in the film left him feeling like 'a raped woman'. He said: 'While shooting, during those six hours, there would be so much of lifting and thrusting on the ground involved. That was tough for me because if I was lifting, Id have to lift the same 120-kilo guy 10 times for 10 different angles. And likewise, get thrown that many times on the ground. 'This act is not repeated that many times in the real fights in the ring. When I used to walk out of the ring, after the shoot, I used to feel like a raped woman. I couldnt walk straight.' The analogy drew all-round flak and the NCW wrote a letter to the actor demanding that he apologise within a week or face a legal summons. After he failed to reply by the deadline, Kumaramangalam said: 'We have taken his remarks very seriously and will issue summons to him immediately as he has failed to reply to the letter in which we had asked him to apologise within seven days.' Yesterday, the actor also failed to appear before the Maharashtra State Commission for Women over the matter - with his legal team saying that the NCW was already dealing with the case. Although Salman has so far remained tight-lipped on the controversy, his father Salim Khan pieced together an apologetic reaction in the face of the widespread criticism. Blocking Indias bid for membership to the Nuclear Suppliers' Group (NSG) is part of Chinas long-term strategic impulse. Beijing sees India as the third pivot in an emerging tri-polar world. The United States and China will contest the first half of the 21st century just as Britain and Germany contested the first half of the 20th century. India, poorer and weaker than both the US and China, will nevertheless be the balancing force in this triangular geopolitical relationship. It will have the worlds third largest economy and military within the next 20 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping as both countries hustle for position as the landscape of world power takes shape Bulwark For America, India is a bulwark against a rising China. For China, India needs to be kept in check. It does not want to confront two powerful democracies, India and America, at once. India, therefore, must be shown its place. Blocking Indias NSG membership is only a small part of Beijings India-specific strategy. A larger part is to encourage a renegade nation like Pakistan to unbalance India. Chinas illegal occupation of swathes of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), through which the Pakistan-China economic corridor will pass, is a key element of this strategy. Indias China policy has traditionally been anaemic and poorly thought-through. Indias first PM, Jawaharlal Nehru, gifted to China the permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which India was offered, as former foreign secretary MK Rasgotra confirms in his excellent new book, A Life in Diplomacy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Barack Obama Nehru followed it up with a provocative forward policy on the Chinese border that drew a strong response from Beijing, leading to Indias humiliating defeat in the 1962 war. Over the next 50 years, Indias China policy oscillated between strong words and weak action. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval have tried to change the grammar of that policy. However, after two years, not much has changed. China is a bully. It has alienated almost every East Asian country with its aggressive manoeuvres in the South China Sea. It has territorial disputes (over the Senkaku islands) with Japan. It fought, and lost, a short war with tiny, plucky Vietnam in 1979. Few Asian countries have cordial relations with China. Just as Pakistan is distrusted by its neighbours - Afghanistan, Iran, Bangladesh and India - China is distrusted by its East Asian neighbours. Both Beijing and Washington know that India will be the balancing force in this triangular geopolitical relationship India, though, has a number of important levers. It must use each with calibrated robustness. First, Tibet. Nehru was right to give refuge in Dharamsala to the Dalai Lama and his followers in 1959. While the Dalai Lama is barred from making political statements as part of this agreement, India is not. Tibet has international resonance, and India must leverage this. Despite Chinese protests, US President Barack Obama has met the Dalai Lama on three separate occasions during his term in office. Delhi must host more conferences for free-Tibet activists. Key Uighar dissidents were recently denied visas at a conference in Dharamsala on Tibet and Xinjiang due to Interpols red corner notices against them. However, free-Tibet activism should now receive enthusiastic Indian support. Chinas appalling human rights record in Tibet and Xinjiang must be highlighted. Taiwan The new government in Taipei is anti-Beijing. Previous Taiwanese governments were in regular talks with Beijing, largely agreeing on the sensitive one-China concept. The new Taiwanese president, Tsai Ingwen, took office in May 2016 after a landslide win and has suspended rapprochement talks with China. PM Narendra Modim (right) shakes hands with President Xi Jinping (left) during a ceremonial reception at the presidential palace in New Delhi According to one report: Beijing is highly suspicious of Tsai, whose Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which replaced the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang (KMT) party in government, is traditionally pro-independence, and has warned her against any attempt at a breakaway. India must deepen its ties with Taiwan despite not having formal diplomatic relations with it. The US, too, has no diplomatic relations with Taiwan. However, it legislated a Taiwan Relations Act through which it has developed close economic, security, cultural and political ties with Taipei. With an anti-China government now in place in Taiwan for the first time in two decades, this is the right time to strengthen Indias relationship with Taipei as part of its Act East policy. This must also embrace the littoral states of the South China Sea, especially Chinas bete noire Vietnam. Economy With Chinas economy slowing, Beijing can no longer be a profligate bank-roller of Pakistans proxy terrorism. As Ruchir Sharma writes in his new book, The Rise and Fall of Nations, China is staring a banking and real estate crisis in the face. The Chinese growth story will be further eroded as the country greys and ages, triggering a ticking demographic time bomb. Chinese soldiers ride in tanks as they pass in front of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City during a military parade. Although India is still poorer and weaker than both the US and China, within the next 20 years India will possess the worlds third largest economy and military. Chinas Muslim-dominated province Xinjiang has a population of restive Uighars. They are the principal source of terrorism in China. Uighars recently met in India to press their case for autonomy in Xinjiang. India can offer them moral support just as China provides such support to Pakistan in PoK. These four elements - Tibet, Taiwan, Chinas faltering economy, and Xinjiang - provide enough leverage to India to keep China off-balance in the same way that Beijing does India. China exploits the weak, but respects the strong. PM Modi must jettison decades of Indias traditional appease-China diplomacy. It hasnt worked, as events at the NSG plenary in Seoul showed, and it wont work in the future either. Munna Marandi, the son of Jharkhand BJP chief Tala Marandi, is facing outrage after claims that he married an 11-year-old girl on June 27 in Jharkhands Godda region. The reception, which was held on Wednesday, was meant to be attended by Chief Minister Raghubar Das - who cancelled his scheduled appearance at the last moment to avoid any controversy. Tala Marandi avoided questions about the alleged union and said that the girl's mother was in a better position to talk about the age of her daughter. The Jharkhand BJP chief's son allegedly tied the knot with an 11-year-old girl in a hush-hush ceremony. (Picture for representation only) According to the chairperson of the State Commission for Women, the marriage was a hush-hush affair. The shocking claims come just three days after Munna was accused of sexually abusing another minor girl for two years, on the pretext that he would marry her. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das (pictured) reportedly cancelled his scheduled appearance at the wedding to avoid any controversy. The first girl's family reportedly backed out of the wedding just a day beforehand, after the allegations of sexual assault came to light. Munna then hurriedly married a girl who is allegedly still a Class Six student. The Commission for Women, however, hasnt received any complaint from the girl who Munna married, or her family. Opposition leader Shibu Soren raised the matter in the Jharkhand Assembly, saying that the name given on the wedding card was different from the name of the girl whom Munna finally married. The state Congress and the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha are demanding action against Marandi and his son. While the Congress demanded the resignation of the BJP state president, Jharkhand Vikas Morcha's principal secretary has demanded an SIT investigation. The Narendra Modi government has been castigated by the Opposition for the ham-handed way it handled India's high-decibel attempt to become a member of the Nuclear Suppliers' Group (NSG). Though India had the support of the majority of the 48 NSG members, it was China which single-handedly blocked a consensus and spoiled Delhi's chances of being admitted during the groups annual plenary meeting in Seoul last week. What is less known, though, is that China, behind the scenes, had assured our government it would not oppose Indias membership if India did not stand in the way of Pakistan being admitted as a member. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Chinese president Xi Jinping. China had unofficially assured the Modi government that it would not oppose Indias NSG membership if India did not obstruct Pakistans entry The latest issue of India Today carries the inside story of how China then reneged on its promise and blocked Indias chances when it realised that a huge majority of the NSG members opposed Pakistans application. Indian officials revealed that when foreign secretary S Jaishankar flew down for a secret meeting with top Chinese officials, he was told by them: We are prepared to look at accommodating India [at the NSG]. But it cant only be about India in the long run. Chinas message was clear: Our support for your membership to the NSG is linked with you not standing in the way of Pakistans entry. Chinas concern was that once India was in the NSG, it would block Pakistans chances since all decisions have to be taken by consensus, and even one dissenting member can block a resolution. It was that secret assurance that made external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj state - in her annual press conference in Delhi a day before the NSG meeting in Seoul - China is not blocking Indias entry into the NSG. It is only talking about criteria and procedures. I am hopeful that we would be able to convince China to support our entry. She then went on to add that as far as the Pakistan application was concerned, we will not oppose entry of any nation into NSG, and that each country should be considered on the basis of their merit. India had sent a clear signal to China that it would keep its word. However, during informal discussions at the NSG meeting, China realised that there was stiff opposition to Pakistans application. To thwart India's chances, China then changed its stand from linkage to blockage, as an Indian official put it. China first pursued procedural tactics and told the chair headed by South Korea, that Indias application was not on the agenda and couldnt be discussed. Indias supporters hit back by forcing the chair to agree to a discussion. China then turned the tables on India by entering into a secret agreement with South Korea to make the discussions fall flat. South Korea needed Chinas backing for the NSG to come out with a strong statement against North Koreas nuclear shenanigans. As a quid pro quo, China persuaded South Korea into passing a killer decision: There would be a discussion on Indias application, but no decision in this meeting. The moment the NSG chairperson decided the norms, India knew its chances of being admitted in this round were close to nil. China then took a maximalist position for the criteria to admit a new member, stating that it must be a member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The Chinese knew that India would never join the NPT since it has regarded it as unfair and discriminatory ever since its inception in 1968. Knowing that waiting for the next years NSG plenary could create fresh problems, India then successfully lobbied to keep the door open with an informal panel being formed to evolve a consensus for its membership application. The government plans to set up solar wheelchairs, battery-driven carts, and special toilets at 145 cultural landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Jagannath Temple, to ensure they are accessible for the differently-abled. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), a government agency attached to the ministry of culture, has identified 50 such ancient sites for the initial phase. It has prepared a list of monuments under its Adarsh Smarak Yojana which witness very high tourist footfall, where disabled-friendly measures will be implemented first. Cultural landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Jagannath Temple will be made more accessible to Indians and tourists with disabilities The list includes the Ajanta and Ellora Caves of Maharashtra, Delhis Qutb Complex and Red Fort, Rajasthans Ranthambore Fort and Brahma Temple, the Group of Monuments at Hampi in Karnataka, and Odishas Konark Sun Temple. Analysts say the step is crucial in India. At least 50-80 million differently-abled people frequently fight discrimination and stigma in the country, while underdeveloped infrastructure in many areas makes it difficult for them to get around. The initiatives have been taken up as part of the Accessible India Campaign conceptualised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, DEPwD joint secretary Mukesh Jain told Mail Today. The programme is being executed under the direction of the DEPwD (department of empowerment of persons with disabilities) only as we are making all heritage and religious sites disabled- friendly by introducing special arrangements for Divyang people. In an ambitious move to enable persons with disabilities to gain universal access, the Centre had launched the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) in December, last year. The programme seeks to make at least 50 per cent of all government buildings in the national capital and all state capitals fully accessible for the disabled by July 2018. The upgrade to these archaeological sites will not be uniform. Each monument will be assessed first and then works will be taken up accordingly as per requirement, the ASI official said on condition of anonymity. The issue was discussed in a recent meeting with the joint secretary of the ministry of social justice and empowerment, as well as officials from the DEPwD, the disability division in the ministry of social justice & empowerment. The DEPwD is providing facilities at 145 places identified by the department. The process will kick-start soon with at least 50 monuments as of now. The ASI has identified the sites in consultation with the DEPwD, said a source at the ministry of culture. The officials said there were discussions on the introduction of solar wheelchairs and battery-driven carts, while brail signage, tactile floors or pathways, special toilets, and railings will be put up at the archaeological sites to facilitate the entry of differently-abled people. All these facilities will be created without modifying the actual structures. There are plans to involve attendants at some of these archaeological sites so that they can assist the Divyang (disabled) people as they move around. At present, 25 out of 3,680 protected monuments in India have been selected under the Adarsh Smarak Yojana. They include the Taj Mahal, Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Qutb Complex, and Red Fort. However, a top ASI official claimed the list of Adarsh monuments has been revised with the count going up to 100 from 25. The list will be made public soon. By awarding these sites the Adarsh monument tag, the central government has pledged to give them special attention in a bid to boost international tourism. Solar energy to power monuments By Soudhriti Bhabani in New Delhi In a move to light up ancient protected monuments, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has geared up with an ambitious plan to install solar power panels on the rooftops of all the sites. Sources in the Ministry of Culture confirmed the decision, saying the initiative already received a go-ahead and the process of installing solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems on the premises of heritage sites and historical monuments will start very soon. All the rooftops of the ASI-protected monuments will come under the purview of the initiative. We will cover the rooftops with solar power panels to light up the area at night. It will help save on the electricity bills significantly, an official said. He said the installation process will start from July-August this year only, as the fund for the project has already been allocated by the Ministry of Culture. Initially 5MW to 25MW solar power units will be installed at each site, but the capacity of these units may increase depending on the requirement. The issue was taken up following the decision to illuminate all the ASI monuments after sunset so that tourists can catch a view at night. It is an ongoing process and will be executed in phases. The fund has been sanctioned already by the ministry. It will be implemented in all archaeological sites where the rooftop is available for necessary solar installation. The capacity of the solar panels may increase at some sites where the requirement would be higher as per the physical geography of the location, he added. The war fronts of Syria were a dream destination for Indian ISIS recruits. But now these Indians are being prepared to unleash terror back on home soil. Recent arrests and intelligence reviews show that the terror group is working on a franchise model, urging young Muslim youths to carry out local strikes. With five arrests from Hyderabad on Wednesday, the number of ISIS recruits in custody has gone up to 54. ISIS is trying to recruit young Indian Muslims to carry out terror strikes on their home soil (file picture). The National Investigation Agency, which busted the module, says the rookies were in touch with a former Indian Mujahideen member who is now part of Islamic State, and were plotting terror strikes and communal clashes. India has the worlds third-largest Muslim population at nearly 175 million, but only a handful of them have joined the West Asian group. Intelligence officials say the new trend of ISIS aspirants working as freelance jihadis is alarming. ISIS modules being set up in India is more dangerous than some youth wanting to travel to Syria, said a counter-terror official. Sources said the Hyderabad module was targeting VIPs and vital installations as well as public places. It is alleged that the members are experts at putting together improvised explosive devices. They were arrested since it was clear that their planning was at an actionable stage, said an NIA officer. Hyderabad in particular has become a hub of ISIS-related activity. Several youths have been apprehended and stopped from travelling to Syria to join the group, while a number of arrests have also taken place from the city in the last two years. Security agencies are making efforts to identify more recruits in states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. The NIA this year busted an ISIS-inspired terror module called Janood-ul-Khalifa-e-Hind, or the Army of Caliph in India, carrying out countrywide arrests. Investigations have also revealed the group was making efforts to establish a channel of procurement for explosives and weapons, to identify locations for terror training camps, and to motivate new recruits to target police officers and foreigners in India - as well as carrying out terrorist activities. The NIA claimed that those arrested were found to be in communication with some active members through chatting applications in order to motivate them to join ISIS. In a video circulated in May, a group of Indian fighters vowed to avenge the deaths of Muslims killed in the 2002 Gujarat riots and elsewhere. Sources say the ISIS recruits are like a B team of the Indian Mujahideen, who are being readied by members of the indigenous terror group who crossed over to Pakistan when a series of arrests followed the 2008 Batla House encounter in Delhi. Some of them later joined ISIS, and Shafi Armar, a former IM member, is a key operative who is scouting for jihadi recruits for Islamic State. His brother, Maulana Abdul Qadir Sultan Armar, now reportedly killed, has also been identified as one of the handlers of Indian ISIS recruits. Aldi has had three of its adverts banned after they were found to be misleading by a watchdog, and faces fresh complaints over a fourth. The budget grocer was slammed by the Advertising Standards Authority for claiming that filling a shopping basket at Aldi is cheaper than an equivalent shop at one of the so-called Big Four. In one television ad Aldi said its customers would save 28, and in another it said shoppers would save 20.31. In fact, it had been comparing Aldis own-label products with more expensive branded goods at rival supermarkets. A third print advert for Aldi stated: When it comes to the crunch, Aldi wins every time. The adverts prompted complaints from Morrisons and two members of the public, and the ASA deemed them to be misleading. Aldis UK and Ireland chief executive Matthew Barnes said the ASAs decision was ambiguous and inconsistent. Britain's aerospace and defence sectors had a bumper year in 2015 and upped their contributions to the UK economy by generating more than 55billion, research shows. Employment in the two industries reached 270,000, with aerospace apprenticeships reaching 4,100 and the defence industry supporting a total of 111,000 jobs linked to the sector. Data compiled by ADS Group shows aerospace revenues rose by 1.9billion to 31.1billion, while defence brought in an extra 200million, or 24billion in total. Flying high: Ahead of the Farnborough International Air Show, new data reveals Britain's aerospace and defence sectors had a bumper year in 2015 The figures, released ahead of the Farnborough International Air Show, revealed aerospace exports were 27billion. Europe, the US and Middle East were the three largest markets. A Syrian refugee handed in 150,000 euros to police - after finding the cash in a wardrobe that had been donated to him. The 25-year-old, named only as Muhannad M, had only recently moved into his new flat in Minden in Germany's north Rhine-Westphalia when he made the discovery. Police say he was assembling a cupboard he had been given by a charitable organisation when he came across the money. The 25-year-old, named only as Muhannad M, had only recently moved into his new flat in Minden in Germany's north Rhine-Westphalia when he made the discovery He found about 50,000 euros in cash as well as savings books containing more than 100,000 euros hidden under a board. Police said in a statement that while small amounts of money are regularly handed in to authorities, 'such a large sum is the absolute exception.' The man arrived in Germany last October as a refugee - though his family are still believed to be in Syria. According to Yahoo, the refugee told German newspaper Bild that the money was all new 500 euro notes and at first he thought they were fakes. After checking the internet to find out whether they were real, he decided that they were before informing migration authorities. A Syrian refugee handed in 150,000 euros to police - after finding the cash in a wardrobe that had been donated to him He said: 'Allah would never allow me to finance my own interests with someone else's wealth.' Police are attempting to track the rightful owner of the money. A spokesman is quoted as saying: 'This young man has acted in an exemplary way and deserves great respect. 'It sometimes happens that smaller amounts of money are handed in. But this kind of money is the absolute exception.' A career criminal said nothing and held a folder of papers in front of his face to block photographers as he was sentenced to life in prison for a brutal home invasion beating caught on nanny cam. On Wednesday, State Superior Court Judge Ronald Wigler sentenced Shawn Custis after listening to the victim describe how the attack left her with physical and psychological scars. The woman, who testified against Custis during the trial, gasped and sobbed in the gallery after the judge announced the sentence and referred to the 45-year-old man as 'vicious, depraved and evil.' Scroll down for video Defendant Shawn Custis hides his face with a folder while sitting in court as he is sentenced to life plus five years on Wednesday in Newark, New Jersey Earlier Custis was found guilty in the brutal beating of a woman during a 2013 home invasion caught on a nanny-cam home security video The 2013 attack lasted several minutes and started while the woman was sitting with her daughter watching television, with her infant son sleeping upstairs. The woman was punched and kicked repeatedly and thrown down a flight of stairs. The children weren't physically injured. Approaching the bench to describe how the crime has affected her, the woman said she suffered a fractured bone in her back and facial injuries and remains so traumatized that she has been unable to return to work and has had to move her family. 'I carry a personal alarm even when I am in the comfort of my own home,' said the woman, who prosecutors asked not be identified. 'I am in my own prison. I haven't opened a window in my house in two years.' The judge sentenced Custis after listening to the victim describe how the attack left her with physical and psychological scars The 2013 attack (pictured) lasted several minutes and started while the woman was sitting with her daughter watching television, with her infant son sleeping upstairs The woman was punched and kicked repeatedly and thrown down a flight of stairs. The children weren't physically injured A jury convicted Custis on June 1 of aggravated assault, child endangerment, robbery, burglary, criminal restraint and theft. But the panel acquitted him of the most serious charge, attempted murder. Wigler added an additional five years to Custis' life sentence for the child endangerment conviction. Custis won't be eligible for parole for more than 60 years. Prosecutors had sought a life sentence for the Newark resident based on a criminal past Wigler termed 'rather staggering.' It included 38 arrests and 17 felony convictions before the 2013 attack in Millburn, a suburban town several miles from Newark. One of the previous convictions was for a 1990s home invasion similar to the attack in Millburn, according to Assistant Essex County Prosecutor Jamel Semper. Custis, center right, pictured in July 2013 as he is escorted from an arraignment hearing. A jury convicted him on June 1 of aggravated assault, child endangerment, robbery, burglary, criminal restraint and theft 'Half-measures of leniency haven't worked to deter this defendant,' Semper told the judge. 'He has almost as many arrests as he's had birthdays.' Custis' attorney argued during the trial that the police investigation was biased because a white officer responding to the crime scene was heard on video using a racial slur. Custis is black. Prosecutors countered that four women who knew Custis identified him after seeing the video of the attack on television, and DNA tests showed blood found on his jeans belonged to the victim. A bill that would phase out North Dakotas angel fund investment tax credit and expand the seed capital investment tax credit was forwarded out of an interim committee Wednesday, setting the stage for further debate during next years regular session. Members of the interim Political Subdivision Taxation Committee are expecting at their next meeting to also forward a competing bill that would beef up reporting requirements on the angel fund. The tax credit has drawn fire from lawmakers in recent months over its lack of transparency. The issue of investments being made in out-of-state companies that may not be providing a return for the state has also been a concern. Were talking about millions and millions of dollars, Rep. Mike Nathe, R-Bismarck, said of the out-of-state investments through the angel fund. This committee is clearly not comfortable with that at all. Committee chairman Rep. Jason Dockter, R-Bismarck, agreed. Our goal either way is that we have transparency. We need to figure out the best route for North Dakota, Dockter said. The North Dakota angel fund investment tax credit is available to all income taxpayers. A taxpayer can claim 45 percent of the amount to each angel fund each taxable year, capped at $45,000 per year with a lifetime limit of $500,000 in credits. Criteria for being granted the credit includes that an angel fund must be organized with the intent of investing in at least three primary-sector non-publicly traded businesses with strong growth potential. In the bill draft forwarded Wednesday, the lifetime limit in credits for an investor would be raised to $4 million with the annual cap on what can be claimed doubled to $225,000. The overall amount of seed capital investment tax credits available annually would be raised from $3 million to $15 million. Dockter said the higher levels of credits available serve as a carrot to entice investors to go through the extra hoops to pursue the seed capital tax credits and are a fair trade for more restrictions. The angel fund investment tax credit was created during the 2007 session and has been repeatedly modified in later sessions. Prior to the creation of the angel fund, the seed capital investment tax credit was a popular program but had more stringent requirements to meet. It fell to the wayside after the angel fund, which has more lax guidelines, was created. Valley Angel Investment Fund LLC Chairman Tommy Kenville was part of a roundtable discussion on angel funds during the meeting and defended the program. Im not excited by either bill, Kenville said. I would just as soon leave everything as it is. Kenville and other angel fund investment leaders have made the case in previous meetings that angel funds are key incentives to investors, some of whom would otherwise have invested in other states. Individual angel fund managers have also said that continuing the tax credit would spur further entrepreneurship in the state. This is a really fragile industry anyway, Kenville said. The competing bill to be voted on at the next meeting includes provisions requiring investments made by an angel fund to a business to be made within three years and the investment to be reported to the North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner. Amendments were offered that will be in the bill next meeting as well. Chief among them is a requirement that the tax credit itself is only earned when an investment is made; currently, that isnt the case in North Dakota. Committee members also forwarded other draft bills Wednesday which would eliminate little or never-used tax incentives that have been on the books for decades. Up for potential elimination next session are incentives, including a microbusiness income tax credit as well as a wage and salary tax credit. Zuckerberg fired off angry email after he asked staff to paint the walls and the place was covered with obscene drawings FIRED Facebook advertising manager Antonio Garcia Martinez has written a tell-all book about his time at the social network Facebook has long been accused of being a sexist workplace and letting founder Mark Zuckerberg rule with an iron fist in a velvet perk-filled glove. But as far as one ex-employee is concerned, the glove is now definitely off. Antonio Garcia Martinez, a former Facebook advertising manager who was fired two years ago, claims that working at the social network was like being in a cult akin to North Korea with Zuckerberg its unquestioned leader. Female employees were told not to wear clothing that might be distracting to male workers, Human resource managers gave a speech during initiation for new employees in which they told women that there was a dress code which they had to stick to. They also pulled women aside and read them the riot act if their skirts were too short. Men do not appear to have been given the same treatment according to Martinez' new tell-all book, Chaos Monkeys: Obscene Fortune and Random Failure in Silicon Valley, published by Harper Collins Scroll down for video The finger: Working at Facebook was like being in a cult akin to North Korea with founder Mark Zuckerberg its unquestioned leader, writes Antonio Garcia Martinez, a former Facebook advertising manager who was fired from the social network behemoth two years ago, in his new tell-all Taking a bite: For Martinez, there were problems aplenty at Facebook. Staff who stepped out of line were monitored by a KGB-like internal police force called The Sec,' he claims Martinez takes the title from a term used in the tech world for a tool used by computer developers to identify problems before they crop up. But for Martinez, there were problems aplenty at Facebook, not least the KGB-like internal police force called The Sec which monitored everything that staff did. Facebook has long faced allegations its workplace culture is sexist and still mirrors the Frat House style environment that harks back to social media's early days. Facemash, for example, was a crude hot or not style game that went viral in Harvard, where Zuckerberg studied. Since then former employees have claimed that little has changed and that it is more like Mad Men when it comes to equal rights. Martinez, who was sacked by Facebook in 2013 after two years working on targeted advertisements, describes how new employees went through a series of talks to induct them into the companys way of thinking. The author recalls being told by Chamath Palihapitiya, one of the stars of Facebook: Look, were not here to f*** around. Youre at Facebook now and weve got lots to do. Employees take a quick two player break in a common area at Facebook HQ Zuckerberg wanted art - graffitit not so much. Art installations from local artists can be found throughout our headquarters in Menlo Park After 20 minutes more of lecturing he finished off with another missive: Just f*****g do it. But 'doing it' had its limits. Martinez says that Facebook's Human Resources told them that the policy on asking co-workers out was that you got one try and if they said no you had to leave it. Next was a warning to the womenfolk,' writes the author. Our male HR authority, with occasional backup from his female counterpart, launched into a speech about avoiding clothing that distracted coworkers. Id later learn that manager did in fact pull aside female employees and read them the riot act. One such example happened in (advertising) when an intern who looked about 16 coming in regularly in booty shorts. Such attitudes toward women got senior staff into trouble with Sheryl Sandberg, the chief operating officer at Facebook and one of the few female boardroom executives. On one occasion, she was evaluating a presentation of a new tool that used pictures of cats instead of users pictures. The day that an employee joined Facebook is called their Faceversary and is marked by celebrations akin to how Christians celebrate the day they are baptized A chalk wall features employee art and notes at Facebook HQ but no obscenities allowed When Sandberg asked why they were all cats, the product manager Dan Rubenstein said: Well, you know, kittens and cats are like pu Sandberg did not need to hear the word pussy and replied: Got it! followed by a sharp intake of breath, She said: If there were women on that team theyd NEVER EVER choose those photos as demo pics. I think you should change them immediately. Rubenstein duly scribbled in his notepad: CHANGE PUSSY PHOTOS NOW! Martinez, a former Goldman Sachs trader who had an on-off relationship with the mother of his three children, has his own chauvinistic issues. He writes: Most women in the Bay Area are soft and weak, cosseted and naive despite their claims of worldliness, and generally full of s**t. They have their self-regarding entitlement feminism and ceaselessly vaunt their independence but the reality is, come the epidemic plague or foreign invasion, they'd become precisely the sort of useless baggage you'd trade for a box of shotgun shells or a jerry can of diesel. Martinez admits that he once tried to have sex in a closet on the Facebook campus after getting drunk in the bar on site called Shady Lady. Martinez admits that he once tried to have sex in a closet on the Facebook campus after getting drunk in the bar on site called Shady Lady,' Facebook's main bar with furniture acquired from Craigslist He admits that he had his fair share of scares with women nearly getting pregnant after having unprotected sex with many women. Martinez writes: I was on season four of the show where a tear-filled woman X shows up two weeks after the shag saying she had missed her period (sort of in the same way I'd say I missed my bus). Nothing had ever come of it and after the third showing you just wanted to say: Look, woman, unless you've got a screaming infant in your arms and it looks like me, we have nothing to talk about. In another passage about his pre-Facebook says Martinez says that trying to attract venture capital funding with an ongoing lawsuit against was like walking into a singles bar with a T-shirt announcing: Im HIV positive. Look, woman, unless you've got a screaming infant in your arms and it looks like me, we have nothing to talk about. Martinez says that working for Facebook is like being in a cult with Zuckerberg as its leader who is followed by true believers who have a Messianic zeal to get everyone in the world onto the social network. The day that an employee joined Facebook is called their Faceversary and is marked by celebrations akin to how Christians celebrate the day they are baptized. It was essentially treated as a second birthday and everyone would congratulate you and give you balloons. The day people leave Facebook is considered their death and they would post a picture of their battered ID card as their Facebook profile to show they were going out the door. In Facebooks first office, one conference room was called Ping and the one next door was called Pong. When Facebook moved to its sprawling campus in Menlo Park signs were put up which read: Our work is never done, Embracing change isnt enough, Make it faster, The journey 1% finished and What would you do if you werent afraid? Zuckerbergs office became known as The Aquarium because of its all glass walls while Sandbergs conference room became dubbed Only Good News, apparently because that is all she wanted to hear. Staff were expected to work 20 hour plus days, Martinez claims, and eat all their meals at the cafeteria, which developed to cater for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sheryl Sandbergs conference room became dubbed Only Good News, apparently because that is all she wanted to hear Not every initiative was a success though and when Zuckerberg asked staff to paint the walls of their new office he was furious because after two days the place was covered with obscene drawings. Martinez says the gist of the email Zuckerberg sent round to staff was that I trusted you to create art and what you f*****g did was vandalize the place. According to Martinez Zuckerberg was obsessed with secrecy. When one employee leaked details about a new product launch Zuckerberg responded by sending a chilling email round to every single worker with the subject line: Please resign. The email was designed to cause alarm to anyone who received it - in this case the whole company. Zuckerberg was so angry at the employee who leaked details about the new product that he 'excoriated' the individual in the message - attacking the person for his or her 'base moral nature' and how he/she had 'betrayed the team'. The book says: 'The moral to this story, a parable of a prodigal son but with an unforgiving father, was clear: F*** with Facebook and security guards would be hustling you out the door like a rowdy drunk at a late night Taco Bell'. The moral to this story, a parable of a prodigal son but with an unforgiving father, was clear: F*** with Facebook and security guards would be hustling you out the door like a rowdy drunk at a late night Taco Bell' In his few personal dealings with Zuckerberg, Martinez found him to be blunt and once interrupted his response to say: 'Why don't you just answer the question'. He said that during a meeting about targeted advertising Zuckerberg did not review the technical details because he 'wouldn't have had the patience' to go through it. Zuckerberg made decisions that affected Facebook's 1.6 billion users based on 'gut feel' and 'whatever historical politics were at play' rather than a considered judgement, Martinez claims. Martinez is also brutal in his assessment of Facebooks ability to make money off advertising before 2013 and said its ability to monetize its data was utter dog s*** and that they were clueless.' A lot of the change appears to be the work of Sandberg, who arrived in 2008 having previously been at Google and been mentored by former Federal Reserve chairman Larry Summers while studying at Harvard. She instituted what Martinez calls the Supreme Court of Sheryl, or a system for improving targeted advertising that she controlled. The book says: She clearly knew her boss inside and out. Here was a boss who excelled in the role of gatekeeper and shepherd to difficult and powerful men, whether that role was chief of staff for prickly US Treasury Secretary Larry Summer, or COO of and for Zuck. One of Sandbergs tricks for hiring the right staff was to make them think they were missing an unmissable opportunity. A colleague told Martinez: She basically convinced me by saying: Look, I either hire you now and you come work for Facebook, or a year from now Ill hire you to work for the guy whose job Im offering to you right now. And thats what convinced me. Martinez reveals how Zuckerberg declared total war on Google in 2011 when it launched Google Plus, its ill-fated rival social network. Martinez claims that this hit Zuckerberg like a bomb and that he put the entire company on Lockdown, meaning that they were not able to leave the building. In a speech in front of the entire company Zuckerberg quoted Cato the Elder, one of his favourite philosophers, and told that Carthage must be destroyed, referring to Google. According to Martinez: Everyone walked out of there ready to invade Poland if need be Martinez reveals how Zuckerberg declared total war on Google in 2011 when it launched Google Plus, its ill-fated rival social network in his new book Chaos Monkeys The Facebook Analog Research Laboratory turned Zuckerbergs catchphrase into posters in bold type with a Roman centurions helmet which were put up all over the campus When it became clear that Google had been inflating the figures for how many people were using Google Plus and it was not a threat. Martinez is not the first former Facebook employee to highlight its workplace culture. In The Boy Kings: A Journey into the Heart of the Social Network Katherine Loose claimed that it was deeply sexist and stuck in a 1950s mentality. She wrote that female workers at the social network were propositioned for threesomes or given crude insults like I want to put my teeth in your a**. Lower ranking employees who were invariably female were banned from a conference unless they worked as coat checkers whilst there. In the book she compared Zuckerberg to Napoleon and branded a little emperor who created a company where his staff could idol worship him. Loose was employee no.51 and worked her way up from customer relations to a senior marketing role before becoming the speechwriter for Zuckerberg. Facebook declined to comment about Martinez' book when Daily Mail Online reached out. A Tunisia military doctor killed in the Istanbul airport attack had travelled to the country to try to convince his son to leave ISIS. Brigadier General Fathi Bayoudh, was among the 41 people who died when three suspected ISIS bombers opened fire before blowing themselves up at Ataturk Airport on Tuesday evening. The Tunisian Defence Ministry confirmed that Brigadier General Bayoudh, who worked in a military hospital was one of those killed in the explosions. Scroll down for video Tunisian Brigadier Fathi Bayoudh, who was killed in the Istanbul airport attacks. He had travelled to Turkey to try and convince his son to leave ISIS in Syria And a senior security source and local media have said he had been in Turkey to try and persuade his son to leave ISIS in Syria. A security source said: 'Bayoudh travelled to Turkey in an effort to meet his son, who joined Islamic State in Syria a few months ago with his girlfriend. The source explained the son had now been detained by Turkish troops on the border with Syria. They added: 'Bayoudh's son travelled with his girlfriend who studied with him at the Faculty of Medicine a few months ago, which prompted several attempts by his father to persuade him to return.' Several local Tunisian newspapers online and radio also cited other security sources saying Bayoudh was in Turkey to met his son to try to persuade him to come home. At least 41 people died when three suspected ISIS bombers opened fire before blowing themselves up at Ataturk Airport on Tuesday evening Paramedics rush those seriously injured in the attacks to stretchers after three suicide bombers blew themselves up Tunisia has become a model of democratic reform in the Arab world since its 2011 uprising against autocrat Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. But it is also one of the largest sources of foreign fighters for Islamist groups in Iraq and Syria. Government officials estimate more than 3,500 Tunisians have left to fight for Islamic State and other groups in Syria, Iraq and Libya, some in command positions. Some are recruited from impoverished areas in the North African nation, but others are professionals and graduates recruited online by jihadists. The news came as funerals for some of the victims began while Turkish authorities sought to put together an attack timeline, going through surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. A Turkish court imposed a media ban on any information not officially released by the government. People flee for their lives after hearing gunshots and explosions ring out in the arrivals hall at Ataturk airport The devastation at Istanbul's airport was a reminder of the March 22 attack on the Brussels airport, where two suicide bombings ripped through check-in counters, killing 16 people. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for that attack, as well as an explosion the same day at a Brussels subway station that killed 16 more people. Turkey has suffered a series of attacks that have frightened away visitors and devastated its economy, which relies heavily on tourism. The government has stepped up controls at airports and land borders and deported thousands of foreign fighters, but has struggled to tackle the extremist threat while also conducting security operations against Kurdish rebels. A British man who authorities say tried to grab a police officer's gun to shoot presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump at a Las Vegas campaign rally has been indicted on federal criminal charges. A grand jury on Wednesday charged Michael Steven Sandford, 20, with disrupting an official function and two firearm possession counts, U.S. Attorney Daniel Bogden said. Together, the charges could get him up to 30 years in prison. Scroll down for video Michael Sandford (pictured centre being restrained) allegedly tried to grab a police officer's gun to shoot presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump speaks at the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino Sandford's arraignment was scheduled July 6 in Las Vegas. He remains in federal custody, and his lawyer didn't immediately respond Wednesday to messages seeking comment. Federal agents say Sandford told them he drove to Las Vegas from San Bernardino, California, with a plan to kill Trump. He said he went to a Las Vegas gun range to learn to shoot the day before the incident at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino on June 18. The U.S. Secret Service says Sandford approached a Las Vegas police officer at the Trump campaign stop in the 1,500-seat Mystere Theatre, said he wanted Trump's autograph, then grabbed for the officer's gun. Sandford, who is unemployed, is accused of overstaying his U.S. entry visa by about nine months. Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement lodged a detainer against him to take action on the immigration violation if he's released from jail. Sandford explained his actions to his father, saying: Someone had to stand up for America'. His extraordinary statement came during an emotional meeting at a desert prison near Las Vegas. In interviews with The Mail on Sunday, his parents painted a portrait of a deeply troubled young man who urgently needs psychiatric help. He wouldnt hurt a hair on anybodys head everybody has said that, said his mother Lynne. I just want to wrap my arms round him and never let him go. She revealed that Michael, who suffers from Aspergers syndrome, was detained overnight at a psychiatric hospital in New Jersey after being found distressed in a car on the first day of a two-week holiday in January last year. A few months later, he returned to the US where he has lived ever since. Last month, after growing increasingly concerned for his welfare, his mother alerted the authorities. His father Paul Davey, 50, who traveled to the US to speak to his son in jail on Friday, said he was deeply shocked by Michaels confession. Sandford (pictured age eight) has a complex history of mental illness, but his family say this is completely out of character. Mr Davey spent an hour talking to him and he believes Michael was brainwashed Mr Davey said: I asked him what happened and he would only say that if Trump was elected, it would change the world and that somebody had to stand up for America. I have never heard him talk like that before. I cant understand why he was so motivated and politicized that he thought grabbing a gun from a policeman was a good idea. Mr Davey said, after spending an hour talking to his son that he believes Michael was brainwashed. I think the people he met, and was living with, may know what motivated Michael. Did someone start feeding him information? Did they set him up for it? I really think he has been brainwashed. Michaels mother Lynne, 41, desperately wanted to visit her son in prison but had to remain in the UK to look after her daughter. But she gave her ex-husband a letter to give to Michael which read: I love you very, very much and my heart is breaking. She said she had serious concerns about him returning to the US but felt powerless to stop him. He was determined enough to go and I involved mental-health services and they said the only way [to stop him] would be to declare him mentally incompetent and have him sectioned. She has urged the US authorities to let her son return to Britain to receive psychiatric help. Hes clearly a very troubled, disturbed person now, she said. He was trembling in shackles in court. Hes frail, hes thin. What hes done is completely out of character. Every message Ive had from everybody who has ever known him says what a delightful person he is, how considerate, how charming, how polite. A jail certainly isnt the best place for him. Lynne, 41, desperately wanted to visit her son in prison but had to remain in the UK to look after her daughter. But she gave her ex-husband a letter to give to Michael After Sandford was evicted from his flat in New Jersey in April, his desperate mother tried to find him hostel accommodation and sent him money, but became increasingly concerned when his calls home became sporadic. Mr Davey spoke to his son by video-link in jail. He said he doesnt even know what the charges against him are,' Mr Davey said. 'He told me he was finding it hard and he was scared. He is bewildered and overwhelmed, especially because of his autism. 'He said he wants to come back home but I had to give him a reality check. I told him it was unlikely hed get out any time soon. U.S. Magistrate Judge George Foley Jr. acknowledged during Sandford's first court appearance in Las Vegas that Sandford's mental health may be an issue. Sandford's appointed lawyer, Heather Fraley, said Sandford previously attempted suicide and once ran away from a hospital in England. However, Fraley said she believed Sandford is competent for trial. No comment form Clinton campaign on what they knew about Datto Inc computers unlocked and some where 'hired' from Best Buy Staff did not have to change passwords, left say it was hacked itself and customers complained about seeing other clients' data Datto Inc held emails for almost three years but Now Daily Mail Online investigation reveals how firm which stored her backed up emails was dogged by security lapses Hillary Clinton is facing damaging new revelations about the lax security surrounding her emails. A Daily Mail Online investigation has found that a second firm - hired to store a back-up of Clintons secret server - was so lax in its security employees failed to change passwords frequently and left computers logged in, unattended for extended periods and its own clients stumbled upon other clients data. Datto Inc, the company in question, was hired to store Hilarys emails by Platte River, the mom-and-pop company contracted to maintain her 'homebrew' email system. Speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Online on condition of anonymity, one former employee at Datto, said the company was woefully exposed to being hacked. 'If you're talking about high-level data security, at the political, presidential level, the security level of data [at Datto] hired by Platte River, was nowhere near something that could have been protected from a good hacker that knows how to spread out their points at which to infiltrate,' he said. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Tech guru: Hillary Clinton traveled to California this week to launch her policies on technology - but her own server arrangements are open to question. A company which stored her emails is accused of lax security Lax: Datto Inc is run by Austin McChord. Whistleblowers say that his company's security is lax and that it was hacked itself in 2010 The emails emails, 30,000 of which Clinton deleted, are now part of an FBI investigation into her handling of classified material while she was Secretary of State. A total of 22 have been deemed to contain top secret material - out of 2,075 found to contain classified material - and questions have mounted about whether her account was successfully hacked, which the Clinton campaign claims did not happen. The existence of the emails only came to light because of a House investigation into the deaths of four American in an Islamist attack on the mission in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11 2012. The probe concluded this week with an excoriating report by the majority Republican members of the committee, who accused her of 'shameful' conduct with her secret email account. HOW AMERICA'S SECRETS ENDED UP WITH 'MORONS' AT DATTO INC 2008: Aides to Bill and Hillary Clinton set up a 'homebrew' server in the basement of their Chappequa home. January 13, 2009: Clintonemail.com is registered as an internet domain. January 21, 2009: Clinton enters the State Department and apparently declines a state.gov email address. She initially uses an AT&T account then later that year starts using HDR22@clintonemail.com for all her business and personal dealings. February 1, 2013: Clinton leaves office March 20, 2013: Romanian hacker 'Guccifer' reveals Clinton's private email address when he hacks her shadowy confidante Sidney 'Sid' Blumenthal's AOL account, May 31, 2013: Clinton Executive Servce Corp hires Platte River to maintain her account. Platte River replace the basement server by putting the account on its own server at a facility in New Jersey. They contract Datto Inc to provide a back-up device to 'mirror' the server. Shrug off: Clinton as she responded to question on whether she 'wiped the server'. August 11, 2014: Following a congressional subpoena and more than a year of delays, the State Department hands over a small number of Clinton's private emails, 10 in all, to a House committee investigating the 2012 terror attack on a State Department compound in Benghazi, Libya including some emails from the hdr22@clintonemail.com address. February 27, 2015: State Department staffers tell Benghazi committee aides that Clinton had used her private address exclusively during her tenure at the agency, and that they don't have any of her emails other than those she provided voluntarily. March 4, 2015: The Associated Press reports that it has traced Clinton's private email address back to a private server at her Chappaqua, New York home, and that the server was registered under a fake name. August 11, 2015: The FBI takes possession of Clinton's server hardware and three thumb drives in her lawyer's possession, which are said to contain copies of everything she turned over to the State Department. August 18, 2015: Clinton finally addresses deleting emails and is asked if she had 'wiped the server'. 'What, like with a cloth or something?' she responds. September 10, 2015: FBI request contents of Datto Inc's 'cloud' storage of Clinton emails . 6 October 2015: McClatchy reveal the existence of the Datto Inc emails. Advertisement Clinton dismissed the report, saying it was time to 'move on' and went to California to launch her policies on the tech industry. But now it can be disclosed that Datto Inc is accused of major security failings by people who worked for it and also those who used its services. The failings included allegations that security was so lax that customers warned the firm they had stumbled on other clients' data; that in 2010, the company's internal servers were hacked; and that staff were not required to regularly change passwords, seen as a basic requirement for keeping systems secure. Staff computers which had access to servers holding confidential client information - were left logged in while unoccupied for extended periods of time, whistleblowers said. And Datto headquarters were easily accessible and had no security guards on their floor, while employees opened and held doors open for others which should only have been accessible with a security pass. A longtime Datto partner, Marc Tamarin, told Daily Mail Online: 'Those guys were really morons. They weren't qualified to handle our back-up and that was the biggest concern for us.' It is still not known whether Clinton or her staff even knew that Datto was holding her emails. Daily Mail Online has asked her presidential campaign, but has received no response. What is known is that Datto were contracted in May 2013 by Platte River Networks to store a backup of the contents of the 'homebrew' Clinton email.com server. Platte River Networks - a 'mom-and-pop shop' tech firm in Denver, Colorado - was contracted to maintain the server once Clinton left office, and was itself the subject of ridicule when it emerged that its own servers were kept in a bathroom. However, the Daily Mail Online investigation suggests that the risk of the Clinton emails being hacked while they were stored at Datto should be the greater concern. Datto was involved in the handling of Clinton's emails from May 2013 until around August 2015, when the FBI seized them. A Datto source said the company did not know at the time that it had been backing up Clinton's server, McClatchy reported. The former employee speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Online on condition of anonymity, spent three years at Datto, and said the company was woefully exposed to being hacked. 'It's not something that Datto was focused on. It was more about getting the data off-site quickly and cost-effectively than securing the data and keeping it from being hacked. 'There's no doubt in my mind that someone could easily hack them - even today.' Datto was named last October as the second data storage company to be investigated by the FBI over what threat Clinton's server posed to national security. One of the Datto insiders told Daily Mail Online that around 2010, the startup had its internal network hacked, leading to the authorities being called. While that was before it held the Clinton emails, including top secret material, it is unknown if that failure was known to Clinton or her aides. A former partner of Datto also claimed the company had a 'shocking level of incompetence'. Marc Tamarin, president of Virtual IT Consulting, told Daily Mail Online that he was a Datto partner from 2009 until early 2016. Like Platte River, his company bought storage devices from Datto. Tamarin said: 'I had a sales manager at Datto and he would tell me about the latest and greatest Datto products and we would buy them for our clients. 'We would deploy them and when we had problems, we would work with Datto technical support. 'Those guys were really morons. They weren't qualified to handle our back-up and that was the biggest concern for us. 'Any time there was a problem, I would go to Datto and say: 'You have got to fix this, what's going on?' Concerns: Datto - whose employees dressed up as sterotypical Mexicans for a work event - was criticized by a former user of its services. 'They weren't qualified to handle our back-up and that was the biggest concern for us,' he told Daily Mail Online. The farce awakens: Datto Inc staff at an industry event, dressed as members of the cast of Star Wars. 'They didn't seem to care. I couldn't tell my clients - they would think I was incompetent because I had incompetent back-up. 'I would get so frustrated with their technical support and being given the run around.' Virtual IT Consulting parted ways with Datto this year because of technical failures and conflict over payments. Tamarin said: 'If they're inept at the basic principles of technology, how are they going to handle something advanced like security?' 'Most companies like mine trust their vendor that they are doing due diligence. 'I've never heard anything this bad before in my life, the level of incompetence was shocking.' A former Datto senior staffer, who spent three years there, told Daily Mail Online: 'In terms of Datto's own security at the office, it was a joke.' He recalled how employees regularly left their unoccupied computers unlocked even though they had internet access to clients' confidential information. There was no company policy on changing passwords or password expiration dates. 'Someone could walk in off the street, sit down at a desk, get to the Datto portal and start deleting data,' the former employee said. 'All these computers were just sitting on an island and couldn't be managed centrally.' Until early in 2013, he said, every Datto employee had complete access to clients' data, using their staff credentials. However these credentials were often saved on computers for easy access. 'For years, any Datto employee, even low-level ones, could go in any customer's device, see their backups, restore files, and delete files,' the Datto source said. 'You could do anything and this could be a tech support person, sales person or somebody cleaning the office. 'There was no manager watching what employees were doing on computers.' He told Daily Mail Online that some Datto partners who used the company as part of a larger IT service to clients appeared aware of the security lapses. 'On multiple occasions, I heard that they [Datto partners] had inadvertently happened upon other people's Datto devices. 'They would connect through the portal and then were on someone else's 'Datto'. They asked me, 'What do I tell my customers?' He added: 'A lot of what happened was swept under the rug, obviously by Datto, but also by Datto partners because they were the trusted advisors and they had sold [their clients] this solution. 'They were keeping quiet about it too because they didn't want to be made to look incompetent because the solution was not secure.' Early in 2013, Datto restricted the access to data storage devices to tech staff only but the company was already exposed, the insider said. Glitzy: The building which houses the Norwalk, CT, headquarters of Datto. But whistleblowers tell Daily Mail Online security was weak and hackers could easily have targeted the company 'You don't want your employees to have full-time access, it's a liability and it doesn't matter if it's tech support or not. 'Datto were hiring [tech staff] straight from Best Buy with no experience whatsoever.' He added: 'The information was already out there. You could have used USBs to save credentials and use them at a later date. 'There's a trust relationship issue because the customer doesn't know that Datto has this access and most of the Datto resellers didn't know that either and if they did know, they certainly didn't share that with their customers.' The company's cloud storage is at a facility in Reading, Pennsylvania, but its The company's careless attitude to security was noticeable at their Norwalk headquarters. 'You came into the Datto building from the street and if you walked like you had purpose, go straight to the elevator. There were other companies in the building,' the source said. Datto were hiring straight from Best Buy with no experience whatsoever 'Receptionists certainly didn't know who was going in and out of there and would only interact if you walked up and asked a question. 'The elevator didn't require key card access, so it was easy to get up to the [Datto] floor. You could also take the elevator between floors. 'The office did have keycard access but someone else would often open or hold the door especially around lunch. There was a multitude of free computers at lunchtime and from there, you could get you directly into the portal.' He added: 'It would be easy just to walk in with a group of people coming back from lunch and sit right down at a desk and do damage.' The Datto source said the ever-revolving door of employees could have allowed a potential hacker to go unnoticed. 'People just came and went, you didn't know who was working there. The company would go through people like changing your underwear, they would hire and fire,' he said. 'If you walked in and acted like you worked there, nobody would stop you. They were so informal about everything. 'There were no security guards on Datto's floor and a relaxed attitude to employee security passes. 'If you forgot your badge, someone would let you into the office. Datto didn't have a policy for lost or stolen badges - even if building security did. Datto didn't really have any policies. 'The ex-worker claimed to have reported security issues to Datto CEO, Austin McChord. This is the firm Clinton trusted: It is not known if Clinton knew about Datto, but her campaign contracted Platte River Networks to maintain her email system. They held a 'One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest' theme party and used a Datto device to back up the Clinton server. Datto then held her emails in its 'cloud' Trusted: Platte River Networks were used by the Clinton service company to take over her computer after her 'homebrew' server was hacked. Its staff boasted of their 'One Flew Over The Cuckoo Nest' theme party. Why the secrets spilled out: The Congressional investigation into the attacks on Benghazi brought Clinton's secret server to light. Four Americans, including Ambassador Chris Stevens, died on September 11, 2012 'I'm a technical guy, I have a lot of experience in networking, and these guys were doing things by the seat of their pants,' the former employee said. 'I was pointing it out, "Hey, we've got an opportunity to do things better". But with Austin McChord, anyone that doesn't kiss the ring is a threat and will be treated as such.' One former employee told Daily Mail Online that Datto had an existing partnership with Platte River before the Clinton contract. Daily Mail Online revealed last year that Platte River's servers were stored in the bathroom closet of their loft apartment office in Denver at the time it was under contract with Clinton. The small firm turned to Datto to buy a storage device which saved 'images' of servers - ie a mirror of their contents - a Platte River spokesman told McClatchy last year. Platte River claimed they simply wanted a device, and were unaware that it was sending the data it captured from the Clinton server to a 'cloud' storage system. 'SHAMEFUL': HOW BENGHAZI REPORT SLAMMED CLINTON FOR HER SECRET EMAIL SERVER The report published this week by House Select Committee on Benghazi reserves its strongest words for the conduct of the Democratic presumptive nominee for the White House. It says that her decision to keep her emails on a secret 'homebrew' server and then to select which ones to hand over stopped them knowing the full truth about Benghazi. Her email arrangements only came to light because of the investigation into the deaths. It says Clinton's attorney deflected demands to turn over emails by referring it to the State Department, and accused the department and Clinton of being involved in an attempt at obfuscation. 'This "whos on first" routine orchestrated between the Secretarys private counsel and the State Department, which is ostensibly an apolitical governmental diplomatic entity, is shameful. 'It was not merely Congress and the people it represents who were misled and manipulated, the State Department and the Secretarys email arrangement undoubtedly delayed access to information on what happened to four brave Americans in Benghazi and the governments response before, during and after the attacks,' the report says. 'The manner in which the Secretary communicated during her tenure, the manner in which those records were housed during and after her tenure and the manner in which the public record was self-scrutinized and self-selected makes it impossible to ever represent to the families of those killed in Benghazi that the record is whole.' Advertisement But a source familiar with Datto's dealing with Platte River disputed that account and claimed that Platte River was billed for 'private cloud' storage, meaning they had to know that the device they had bought was sending data to the cloud. Datto's attorney, Michael Fass,said in a statement that the company 'had no role in monitoring the content or source of data stored' for Platte River. But once Datto learned of its role in the Clinton server network in August 2015, the company expressed fears to Platte River that the system was vulnerable to hackers, a Datto source told the Washington Post last October. According to the Datto official, the company was concerned about the 'sensitive high profile nature of the data' and wanted to upgrade security. However the company said there was no evidence the system was hacked. Datto's founder Austin McChord has been described as the 'Steve Jobs of Disaster Recovery' - and once admitted talking to customers with a British accent to sound more convincing. Daily Mail Online revealed in October that Datto employees had a maverick attitude. Their Facebook page featured photos of employees drinking at their annual conferences in Las Vegas, goofing off in front of the camera dressed as offensive Mexican stereotypes and dancing along with a troupe of female Hawaiian-style dancers on the beach in summer 2015. The company was founded by McChord in 2008 in his parents' basement in Connecticut when he finished college. McChord said in an interview that he had to move back home to save money and spent $80,000 on credit cards before things took off. Datto now has 600 employees and last year was valued at $1 billion and McChord was named as one of Forbes' '30 Under 30' standout executives in 2015. Datto told Daily Mail Online: 'Datto protects the essential business data for thousands of customers throughout the world who entrust Datto to ensure their data is secure and readily available when needed. We maintain a comprehensive matrix of safeguards to protect our customers data.' A philanthropist who made his fortune selling mail-order wine has pledged $65 million to conservation, and in particular to save the Great Barrier Reef. David Thomas, 77, from Sunshine Beach in Queensland sold his Cellarmasters business almost 20 years ago to set up The Thomas Foundation with his wife Barbara. They pledged $35 million over two decades to environmental causes and he told the Courier-Mail another $30 million will be set aside at the time of his death for the world heritage area, off the Queensland coast. Scroll down for video David Thomas is giving $65 million of his fortune to environmental causes - the noted philanthropist made his money by selling mail order wine business and has become known as 'Mr Great Barrier Reef' 'As long as I live, I will work to help save the Great Barrier Reef,' he told the website. Barbara died after a long illness in 2015. Mr Thomas, who is also referred to as 'Mr Great Barrier Reef', said his three children supported his decision to bequeath many millions to his battle for biodiversity over the years. 'They have received a fair share of our estate and are happy with that and all approve of what Im doing now,' he said to the Courier-Mail. An aerial view of decaying sections of the Great Barrier Reef taken off the north east coast of Queensland Climate change and pollution are destroying huge sections of the reef in a process known as coral bleaching The couple's focus shifted to marine conservation about three years ago. They had been a driving force behind many of Australia's environmental campaigns, and helped establish The Nature Conservancy in Australia. Their foundation website states: 'While living in London, David and Barbara Thomas bought wine from The Sunday Times Wine Club.' Healthy coral is pictured on the Great Barrier Reef. Mr Thomas hopes that his significant donation will preserve scenes such as this 'They saw the opportunity for a similar business in Australia and started Cellarmaster Wines in 1982. 'Over 14 years they launched 12 more wine clubs in Australia and New Zealand.' They sold the business to the Fosters group in 1996 for $160 million. Mr Thomas urged other wealthy Australians to follow his lead to put their money to use in good causes as he steps up his campaign to stop new coal mines. David Cameron was last night accused of a 'whitewash' after rejecting calls to re-open a high-profile inquiry into claims Britain was involved in the torture and kidnap of terror suspects. He set up the Detainee Inquiry in 2010, claiming accusations that spy chiefs and politicians were complicit in the illegal mistreatment of captives were a 'stain on the country's reputation'. But the Prime Minister axed it two years later when fresh criminal investigations were launched into allegations the UK was embroiled in the abuse and so-called rendition of two Libyan dissidents. David Cameron (pictured on Monday) was last night accused of a 'whitewash' after rejecting calls to re-open a high-profile inquiry In December 2013, an interim report by High Court judge Sir Peter Gibson found MI6 agents had not properly raised concerns about sleep deprivation, hooding and waterboarding for fear of offending US allies. Earlier this month, prosecutors controversially ruled that no one would stand trial over claims British spies helped send Abdul Hakim Belhadj and Sami al-Saadi back into the clutches of Colonel Gaddafi in 2004. But for the first time, it was officially confirmed that politicians knew the UK was involved in the CIA's unlawful programme of torture flights. The Crown Prosecution Service said there was supporting evidence an unnamed official known to be ex-MI6 counter-terror chief Sir Mark Allen had been 'in communication' with the Libyan regime over the renditions. It added that he had 'sought political authority' for some actions. MI6 answers to whoever is Foreign Secretary, which at the time was Labour's Jack Straw. But despite being presented with more than 28,000 pages of evidence after a painstaking four-year probe by police, the CPS said it was 'not sufficient' to press criminal charges. Yesterday Mr Cameron rebuffed a Commons challenge to re-constitute Sir Peter's shelved inquiry to confront the 'injustice'. Instead, he said the work would be done by Parliament's secretive Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) even though it is subject to a Government veto on the evidence it sees and what it can publish. Furthermore, the ISC has faced widespread criticism for its failure to notice any problems in previous years. Yesterday Mr Cameron (pictured on Monday) rebuffed a Commons challenge to re-constitute Sir Peter's shelved inquiry to confront the 'injustice' In 2010, Mr Cameron told Parliament that an ISC inquiry could not command 'public confidence'. But yesterday he said it was the 'right approach.' Mr Cameron said yesterday: 'The Government co-operated fully with the police investigation into these cases, the CPS set out their position recently, concluding there was insufficient evidence to prosecute. 'I think there are very few countries in the world who would have had such an independent and thorough investigation into an issue like this.' But Lib Dem home affairs spokesman Alistair Carmichael, who tackled the PM, said: 'The UK Government's involvement in the rendition of individuals for torture is a moral stain on our society. 'No MI6 officials or former minister will be held accountable for the renditions of Abdel Hakim Belhaj and Sami al-Saadi to Libya. 'I call on the Prime Minister to re-establish an independent, judge-led inquiry so we can get to the bottom of this sorry saga once and for all.' Cori Crider, a lawyer for the two Libyan families at human rights group Reprieve, said: 'The Prime Minister said the ISC were not up to the job in 2010 and he was right. They failed to spot the abduction of two families happening right under their noses. 'The blinders the Government rules put on them, and the Government veto on any reporting, means that they have not a snowball's chance of finding and publishing the truth. 'Still in Britain there has been zero accountability for torture. We need a truly independent inquiry into how the Government allowed our country to become shamefully involved in CIA torture.' In 2010, Mr Cameron (pictured on Monday) told Parliament that an ISC inquiry could not command 'public confidence'. But yesterday he said it was the 'right approach' Mr Belhadj and Mr al-Saadi were handed over to Gaddafi's henchmen in the same year as Tony Blair struck his notorious 'deal in the desert' with the Libyan despot. Crucial papers relating to their cases first came to light by chance when a cache of documents were discovered in the bombed-out ruins of the tyrant's spy HQ during the 2011 Libyan uprising. Sir Mark Allen, MI6's anti-terror chief at the time, wrote to his Libyan counterpart that delivering the 'air cargo' was 'the least we could do for you'. He was investigated by police for aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring any offence of torture, and misconduct in public office. Former prime minister Tony Abbott has criticised Malcolm Turnbull for ignoring the 'big issues' such as budget repair and border security during his election campaign. Mr Abbott, who is running for re-election for his Sydney seat of Warringah, appeared on Sky News presenter Paul Murray's show on Wednesday night and accused the Prime Minister of lack of focus. 'This has been an election campaign where a lot of big issues have been touched on without really being developed,' he said. Scroll down for video Former prime minister Tony Abbott has criticised Malcolm Turnbull for ignoring the 'big issues' such as budget repair and border security during his election campaign 'Obviously there is a huge budget repair job that needs to be done... Even border security has been just an intermittent visitor to the campaign.' But Mr Abbott credited Malcolm Turnbull with running a 'statesman-like campaign' and even dished out a compliment for Opposition Leader Bill Shorten, describing his campaign as 'energetic'. In the wide-ranging interview, Mr Abbott also dismissed his critics and insisted he was comfortable with who he is and what he has achieved. He brushed off negative media reports as 'dirty water under the bridge'. Mr Abbott, who is running for re-election for his Sydney seat of Warringah, appeared on Sky News presenter Paul Murray's show on Wednesday night and accused the Prime Minister of lack of focus The former prime minister said he also never paid much attention to what people say about him on social media. When it comes to the question of what job he'll do after the election, Mr Abbott says he's content to be the member for Warringah. He said it was 'fine' if another opportunity arose but he was not seeking it out. Mr Abbott maintained his opposition to same-sex marriage but insisted conservatives would be better able to accept a change to the definition of marriage if it came from voters through a plebiscite rather than an 'easily lobbied' parliament. If the plebiscite was scrapped, voters would feel 'ripped off'. British holidaymakers in Turkey could be targeted by terrorists following the devastating attack on the countrys busiest airport, officials warn. They say further attacks on tourists are likely after three suicide bombers opened fire on terrified passengers before blowing themselves up. Survivors of the attack, in which 42 died and 239 were injured, said escaping from Ataturk airport in Istanbul felt like walking through hell. The man on the left is believed to be one of the suicide bombers, taken as he strolls outside the terminal building seconds before triggering his device The Foreign Office yesterday did not warn against travelling to Turkey but said the terror threat is high. It warned further attacks are likely, could be indiscriminate and may target places visited by foreigners. It also updated its advice to include a heightened risk of attacks on the aviation industry. Davis Lewin, of The Henry Jackson Society think-tank, said the UK remains a prime target for the Islamic State terror group, which is thought to have orchestrated the airport atrocity. He added: The international coalition must step up its efforts to impose a total defeat on this barbaric threat. More than 2.5million Britons a year visit Turkey, many of whom pass through Ataturk on their way to beach resorts. But the countrys tourism industry a vital source of income accounting for 5 per cent of GDP has already been hit hard following a spate of attacks by groups including IS and Kurdish militants. The number of tourists fell by 23 per cent in the first five months of this year. One of the three terrorists that struck at Turkey's Ataturk Airport wields an AK-47 as he carries out his killing spree (left), while a man carries a wounded boy away from the airport (right) Some British travel companies said sales were already down by 50 per cent and are bracing themselves for further hits, while some cruise ship firms have abandoned stops in Turkey. The Association of British Travel Agents said anyone booked on a Turkish Airlines flight before 6 July to or from both Ataturk and Sabiha Gokcen, Istanbuls second airport, can postpone up to the end of July or receive a full refund. A Turkish interior ministry official last night gave a timeline of Tuesdays attack at Ataturk, the third busiest airport in Europe. One assailant opened fire and then blew himself up near security X-ray machines by the doors. A second went upstairs to the departures area and blew himself up, while the third waited outside and detonated his explosives last as passengers fled the terminal. Questions have been raised about security at the airport as it emerged the bombers travelled there in a taxi, which should have passed through checks before reaching the terminal. Armed Turkish police officers patrol outside Istanbul's Ataturk airport on Wednesday, 24 hours after terrorists had killed 42 people in an attack on travellers and workers Chilling footage shows a man thought to be one of the terrorists strolling towards the terminal in a padded jacket, despite it being summer. Another video shows a gunman being shot by police as he walked through the airport, after which he blew himself up. In other footage, families can be heard screaming as they run away after the first blast. Passengers told how the floor of the terminal was covered in blood and body parts. Cameraman Laurence Cameron, from Kent, who had just arrived at the airport, said: The whole building was running screaming towards me. It was just mass panic, guards running around with guns. There was blood on the floor. It was just horrendous. Blood was smeared all up to the car park. Witnesses also told how the men marauded through the airport firing indiscriminately. South African tourist Paul Roos, who was due to fly home, said: We saw [one] man randomly shooting. He was just firing at anyone coming in front of him. I was 50 metres away from him. The attack bore clear similarities to the atrocities in Belgium in March, when two IS suicide bombers struck at the citys airport and another on the metro, killing 32. Ataturk airport reopened yesterday nearly 12 hours after the attack, amid many delays and cancelled flights. Turkish prime minister Binali Yildirim said early investigations suggest IS was responsible though no group has yet claimed responsibility. The dead included 23 Turkish nationals, five Saudi Arabians and two Iraqis. David Cameron described the attack as hideous, and said it does not appear any Britons were killed. Australia's first supervised ice smoking room is still set to open in Sydney despite the government maintaining that they would never give the project the green light. Drug law reformers Matt Noffs and Dr Alex Wodak are pushing for the new development as an answer to Australia's ice epidemic by giving drug users somewhere to get high that was safer for both them and the community, the ABC reports. Despite the NSW Government's stance on the idea the pair said they would still go ahead with the plan of creating a supervised ice smoking room in Sydney. Scroll down for video Drug consumption rooms in Europe, like this supervised ice smoking room in Bern, Switzerland, has found that the idea of 'ice smoking rooms' was working well and drug reformers want to bring one to Australia The proposed centre would ensure that clean pipes and smoking equipment were provided for use but no type of substances would be given to the users at all. 'My understanding is we don't face any legal obstacles to having an inhalation room. The obstacles are all politics and crisis management,' Dr Wodak told 7.30. Mr Noffs said when he visited one of the drug consumption rooms in Europe, he found that the idea was working well and was keen on bringing one to Australia. 'Liverpool would be a really important place for one of these centres. If we don't get permission and the community knows that we have the evidence to do this, we're going to do it anyway,' Mr Noffs told 7.30. Dr Alex Wodak (left) visited drug consumption rooms in Europe and now wants one in Sydney despite the NSW government's aversion to it Mr Noffs maintained that if someone is going to be dependent on a drug like ice 'you would absolutely rather have them inhale than inject' in a safe environment. However, the government are not the only ones standing in the way of the Mr Noffs and Mr Wodak's proposal. Harry Hunt president of the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce rejected the plan immediately saying it would create a bad image for the area. 'Having an ice room in Liverpool is going to project the image of Liverpool as the drug capital of southwest Sydney, we don't want that image,' he told 7.30. Finland's deputy PM backs call for flexibility and says 'let's work it out' Britain will be allowed to keep border controls in Calais after it leaves the European Union, the French president said last night. Francois Hollande said it does not make sense to rip up an agreement enabling British border guards to check for migrants stowed away on lorries or trains before they cross the Channel. In the run-up to the referendum, Remain campaigners had repeatedly claimed that a Brexit vote could lead to the border being shifted back to Dover. But Mr Hollande said yesterday the Le Touquet treaty signed between Britain and France in 2003 was not at stake. Scroll down for video Francois Hollande said it does not make sense to rip up an agreement enabling British border guards to check for migrants stowed away on lorries or trains before they cross the Channel Calling into question the Touquet deal on the pretext that Britain has voted for Brexit and will have to start negotiations to leave the union does not make sense, he said after a summit in Brussels. The mayor of Calais Natacha Bouchart had been pressuring the government for the border to be removed from French soil and held a meeting with officials yesterday. The move would have meant French police no longer tried to stop the thousands of migrants camped in norther France from reaching Britain. After the Brexit result, Xavier Bertrand, president of the Hauts-de-France region that includes Calais, warned he would do everything in his power to make sure the wild west jungle was turned into a British problem. Boost: French finance minister Michel Sapin raised hopes a new British PM will be able to negotiate access to the single market while curbing EU arrivals The former French health minister told the Mail: I have two reactions: Im calling on the French Government and the British people. To the French government I ask them to, without delay, withdraw from Le Touquet agreement. To England I say: The English have wanted to take back their freedom, thats their choice, England can also take back its border. Its the only way to solve the problems in Calais. Mr Bertrand said Britain should now take total responsibility for the situation. He added: The people in Calais do not want to stay in Calais or work in Calais; they want to go to England. Today it is up to the British to take back their border and take back their responsibilities. Until now we have dealt with the problem under Le Touquet agreement for the British government, today though, that ends. Its a French problem because of Le Touquet agreement but it should be a British problem. I will do all I can politically to make sure that the British now take their true share of the responsibility. I will use all my weight as the voice of six million residents, all my political power to say that this is now over - you deal with the border. The people of Calais are very welcoming but they cant cope with this anymore. Every night there are rocks thrown or trees dragged to make lorries brake so that people can jump on board - this is like the wild west. Its impossible. The Le Touquet treaty, which is a bilateral agreement between the two countries, is not linked to EU membership and the French have the right to scrap it at any time with two years' notice. An estimated 5,000 mainly Afghan, Sudanese, Kurdish and Syrian migrants wanting to reach Britain are currently in northern France. David Cameron expressed fears during the referendum campaign that a Brexit decision could lead to the juxtaposed controls being scrapped by France. He claimed in February that it could lead to more migrants slipping into the UK and setting up a camp in Kent, like the ramshackle Jungle camp in Calais which is home to 4,500 refugees. Brexit campaigners dismissed the fears as scaremongering. Meanwhile, in a major boost for hopes of a smooth exit for the UK, finance minister Michel Sapin said there would be no red lines in talks over the single market. His declaration of flexibility was backed by Finlands deputy PM. The first signs of a crack in the EUs united front came as stock markets rallied and fears of a post-Brexit economic slump eased. Mr Sapins remarks raised hopes of a new British prime minister being able to negotiate continued access to the single market while also stemming the flow of EU arrivals. On another extraordinary day of Brexit fallout: France said Britains border deal at Calais would stay in place; The FTSE 100 rose again, making up all the losses it suffered after last weeks referendum; Theresa May and Boris Johnson prepared to launch their Tory leadership campaigns today; Labour endured a fourth day of civil war with Angela Eagle set to challenge Jeremy Corbyn today for the leadership; A pro-Remain minister was accused of being drunk by a fellow MP. Fight to the end: Theresa May and Boris Johnson are preparing for a nine-week battle to decide who will become the next Tory leader. Mrs May said yesterday she will not cut any deals with the former London mayor Mrs May will pledge there can be no turning back on Brexit and the wishes of the British public must be implemented in full, including curbs on migrants. She will appoint a Eurosceptic MP as a cabinet minister for Brexit. Mrs May and Mr Johnson, who will run on the slogan Back Boris 2016, are preparing for a nine-week fight to the bitter end. Yesterday, the Home Secretary refused to cut any deal with her fierce rival. The breakthrough on migrant curbs came in a BBC2 Newsnight interview with Mr Sapin. Previously, EU leaders had said Britain would only get a post-Brexit trade if it continued to allow unfettered migration. Sensible approach: Timo Soini, Finland's deputy PM, said there should be no grudges, ill will or revenge during talks with the UK But, asked if freedom of movement would be a non-negotiable red line, Mr Sapin replied: Everything will be on the table because Britain will make proposals, and we will negotiate all these aspects with a desire to come to an agreement. Britain wont be in the same position as it was beforehand. Things will change. Things have already changed. We return to zero. As we say in French: a clean slate. When we negotiate with a country, a third party, Norway, Switzerland to take countries that are very close, we discuss all subjects: under what conditions there is freedom of movement of people; freedom of movement of goods; of capital. That is something that is very important for the UK with all the questions about financial services. So we discuss everything. Finlands deputy PM Timo Soini last night said the EU should have no red lines during the Brexit negotiations including on the principle of free movement. Mr Soini, who also serves as foreign minister, told Sky News: I am a great friend of the UK, and all of Europe should be. I am sure when the shockwaves go over we will get a sensible approach. I would recommend to everyone else that there should be no grudges, ill will, revenge or red lines. We are friends and Europeans lets get together and work it out. Asked about the prospects of a deal on free movement, he said: That is one of the biggest issues in the negotiations. But when we are negotiating, I think red lines are not the best possible idea. The comments by France and Finland could also boost the chances of 34 other referendums in other European countries, a study has found. Insurgent political parties across the continent are seeking to challenge traditional elites through popular votes on subjects ranging from membership of the EU and keeping the euro to stopping the influx of refugees. Big issue: Mr Soini said migration was one of the biggest issues in the negotiations. Pictured are migrants queuing at the 'Jungle' camp in Calais last week The study by the European Council on Foreign Relations argues that growing pressure for popular referendums could make it more difficult for European authorities to act decisively. A study by the Pew Research Centre also showed that more than 40 per cent of voters in Germany, Holland and Sweden would vote Out and more than a third in Italy and Hungary would also do so. Earlier yesterday, EU leaders ganged together to warn Britain has no prospect of keeping access to the single market unless it accepts migration. A baby born to a North Dakota woman infected with the Zika virus is "absolutely fine," according to an epidemiologist with the state Department of Health. The woman, who traveled to Puerto Rico while pregnant, gave birth before a lab test confirmed she was infected with the virus, Laura Cronquist, an epidemiologist with the Health Department said Thursday. The baby was not born with microcephaly a rare neurological condition that causes babies to have smaller than normal heads and can cause incomplete brain development or any other birth defects. Zika spreads through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito, which is not found in North Dakota. It can be transmitted sexually from a man to his sex partners. In addition, the virus can be passed from a mother to her fetus and is a cause of microcephaly and other severe brain defects in infants. The baby also did not test positive for the Zika virus. Well continue tracking it for the first year of its life, but so far everything has been normal," Cronquist said. The state Health Department will work with the infant's pediatrician throughout the first year to monitor developmental characteristics and milestones. Health officials did not identify the woman who tested positive for Zika or where she lives. There has been only one reported case of Zika in North Dakota, though NDDoH has been testing a large number of people, both men and women including some pregnant women. It seems like were getting fewer pregnant women now, so hopefully everybody is heeding our messages," Cronquist said. As of June 16, 265 pregnant women have tested positive for the Zika virus in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Health officials recommend pregnant women should hold off on traveling to countries with Zika transmission. Couples trying or planning to become pregnant should consult with their doctor prior to traveling. West Nile in Grand Forks Earlier this month, a crow in Grand Forks tested positive for another mosquito-borne virus, West Nile. This week, Grand Forks also reported to NDDoH another crow and a mosquito pool tested positive for West Nile. Cronquist said the state Health Department typically starts testing for the West Nile virus the day after Memorial Day. This year, the Health Department started testing May 31. We should be seeing a human case pretty soon," said Cronquist, estimating that could happen within a month. The number of West Nile virus disease cases reported per year in North Dakota has fluctuated from one case in 2009 to 617 in 2003. In 2013, 127 cases were reported. In 2014 and 2015, 23 cases were reported per year. Ten of the cases reported last year were neuroinvasive, one of which was fatal. Cronquist and other health officials are urging the public to avoid mosquito bites, especially over the holiday weekend when many people gather outdoors. Be aware the mosquitoes that carry (West Nile virus) most often are out between dusk and dawn, she said. The virus is not treatable, but symptoms, such as a high fever, can be treated. To avoid contracting West Nile, Cronquist recommends wearing long sleeves and pants outside, and applying an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, an ingredient that also wards off ticks. A disgraced barrister who stalked an ex-lover walked free from court yesterday after a sympathetic judge gave him a suspended jail sentence - but his legal career is in tatters. Jonathan Simpson, 48, and his solicitor wife Katherine, 49, were convicted of stalking causing harassment or distress in the wake of the end of his stormy affair with a woman he met in a computer shop. His wife last week escaped jail and was sentenced to a curfew for a year, after labelling her husband's lover 'a chav from Southampton' - but Simpson was yesterday told his offending was more serious. Jonathan Simpson, 48, (left) and his solicitor wife Katherine, 49, (right) were convicted of stalking causing harassment or distress in the wake of the end of his stormy affair with a woman he met in a computer shop Despite being under a restraining order and a police warning he went to the school of the older child of his former lover, a mother of two, and sent letters to her friends and family. After the guilty verdict and the jail sentence his legal career is almost certainly over. And an attempt to relaunch himself as an adventure photographer on an expedition to Mongolia has stalled after explorer Colonel John Blashford-Snell kicked him off the trip over fears he might 'frighten the horses'. Simpson has also told the Daily Mail of his belief that he and his wife were unfairly treated by the police and jury. He claimed that despite having a luxury home in Winchester and two children at private school they were far from privileged. At London's Southwark Crown Court yesterday, barrister Simpson, who lives in a Georgian terrace in Winchester, Hampshire, with his wife, son, and daughter, said through his defence QC and in a seven-page letter to the judge that he was full of remorse. After his 18-month affair with the younger woman ended, he pestered her to explain why it was over, bragged to police he had sex with her in every room in her house, and upon meeting the woman's new boyfriend on a train loudly discussed sex acts he had carried out with her. His wife, a partner in a solicitors firm, called the woman a 'c***' down the phone, wrote to the woman's relatives about extreme sexual practices she enjoyed, and claimed she had given a sexually-transmitted disease first to her husband, then her. Sasha Wass QC, defending, told the judge that Simpson's complex youth in a broken home left him psychologically and emotionally vulnerable and that he 'went off the rails' when his affair ended. The anonymous victim told how the lawyer stalkers left her 'embarrassed, violated and degraded'. Judge Alistair McCreath told Simpson that his harassment was 'of the most serious, aggravated kind' and would typically result in a prison sentence. At London's Southwark Crown Court (pictured) yesterday, barrister Simpson said through his defence QC and in a seven-page letter to the judge that he was full of remorse But he said he was willing to suspend it, noting 'by doing what you did you have thrown away your career', and accepting the barrister's assurances he would not offend again. The judge said he made no moral judgement on Simpson's affair, but gave him a six-month prison sentence suspended for a year, barred him from coming with 100 metres of his former lover, and ordered him to have mental health treatment. Simpson told the Daily Mail last night he felt innocent of any crime, and that the first he knew of claims he was a stalker was when 'police forced their way through my door at 5am in combat gear', after his unwise visit to the school. He added: 'I respect the judge and the system - but it has failed us.' The average house in the South of England costs more than twice as much as a similar one in the North - the widest gap on record, new figures reveal today. Statistics published by lender Nationwide show Britains housing market remains sharply divided, with Northern homes now worth an average 155,222. In the South, the average home costs 324,078 to buy nearly 169,000 more and the widest gap on record. The average house in the South of England costs more than twice as much as a similar one in the North - the widest gap on record, new figures reveal today Nationwides chief economist Robert Gardner said: The pace of house price growth tends to decline as you move from the south to the north of the country. It remains unclear how long this pattern will persist, and whether the north-south divide in house price levels will continue to widen. The biggest price rises in the three months to June were in the regions around London, where there was a 12.4 per cent rise to 354,787. In the capital itself, prices jumped 9.9 per cent to 472,384. But the North East and Cumbria saw a 1 per cent fall in house prices to 123,914. Jeremy Leaf, a former chairman of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and a north London estate agent, said the figures were surprisingly strong, given the uncertainty in the run-up to the European Union referendum. He said: They show that the market is more resilient than we might have expected. On the ground, we are seeing a determination on the part of most customers to get back to as close to normality as possible. The average price for the whole of England was 253,461 up 7.6 per cent in the last year and 1.5 per cent on the previous quarter. In Scotland, prices rose 0.5 per cent in the three-month period to 141,245. And Welsh prices were up 0.9 per cent to 145,973. Nationwide said it was much too early to judge what the effect of Britains decision to quit the EU would be. Demand for property remained strong, it said. Growth might be slower due to continued uncertainty but prices are unlikely to fall. Mr Gardner said that a stamp duty hike for buy-to-let investors earlier this year made guessing ahead even harder. Ultimately, conditions in the housing market will be determined by conditions in the wider economy, he said. It is too early to assess the impact of the referendum vote on the economy. However, it is encouraging that the labour market had remained robust in recent months, with solid employment growth and the unemployment rate declining to an 11-year low in April. Borrowing costs also remained close to historic lows. Moreover, the lack of homes on the market with estate agents continuing to report a record low number of properties on their books will also provide underlying support for prices. TV property show presenter Sarah Beeny, who owns online estate agent Tepilo, said: Its encouraging to see a slight uplift in annual house price growth for June despite the uncertainty caused by the EU referendum. Now that we know the result it does look as if things could be bumpy in the short term as we enter a period of change. Business leaders spoke up for Britain yesterday, insisting the decision to quit the EU would not harm their companies. The vote has stoked fears that vital British trading links could be cut off after the nation dared to defy the European Union, with thousands of jobs supposedly at risk. But as markets rallied yesterday, bosses began to challenge that view, expressing optimism about the opportunities ahead. Motoring ahead: Premium car maker Jaguar Land Rover insisted its plans were unchanged and said German rivals were unlikely to support new barriers to growth Even investment banks denied a feared stampede for the exit, although some City jobs could still be lost. Premium car maker Jaguar Land Rover insisted its plans were unchanged and said German rivals were unlikely to support new barriers to growth. Group strategy director Adrian Hallmark said: 'If you look at the volumes German premium manufacturers sell in the UK, I can't imagine they would want to see such a market opportunity being cut off. 'It's in the interest of the EU to maintain access to the UK market, so I can't imagine there would be any overly punitive measure in the premium end of the business. It would be cutting the European nose off to spite its face.' This echoed the view of engine maker Rolls-Royce, which stressed the referendum result had made no difference to its business. Earlier this week, the company said there was 'no immediate impact', but the medium and long-term results would depend on relationships struck between Britain and the EU. Japanese car makers with UK plants such as Toyota and Nissan could be affected, but analysts say they are likely to take years to decide what they do next. Next boss Lord Simon Wolfson (pictured) has already said he believes the country can thrive outside the EU and there is 'huge potential' for the economy FTSE HIGHER THAN IT WAS BEFORE POLL FOLLOWING 3.85 PER CENT RISE The London stock market has clawed back all of its losses in the wake of the Brexit vote easing fears of a full-blown meltdown for savers. Panic selling sent share values falling on Friday and Monday after Britain voted to leave the European Union, wiping more than 92billion off the value of blue-chip companies. But the FTSE 100 index bounced back on Tuesday and rose another 3.58 per cent yesterday to close at 6,360.06. That was some 22 points higher than it was on Thursday night before the result of the referendum was known. Sterling also rose against the dollar and the euro, although it remains well below where it was when the polls closed last week. Analysts hailed the dramatic turnaround on the London stock market but warned of further volatility ahead amid continued uncertainty over Britain's new relationship with Europe. 'It is safe to say that, of all the post Brexit outcomes discussed across the City over the past few months, 'buying frenzy' was not one that was viewed as very likely,' said Chris Beauchamp, senior market analyst at trading firm IG. 'The plethora of bargains on offer plus a welcome period of calm in the UK-EU relationship has provided the opportunity for markets to recover in impressive fashion.' The rally stunned many analysts, although most expect further big swings before the markets settle. Advertisement On the High Street, Next boss Lord Simon Wolfson has already said he believes the country can thrive outside the EU and there is 'huge potential' for the economy. Now the chief executive of electronics firm Dixons Carphone has argued his company would handle the result well. Seb James said: 'In the last five days we've seen trade pretty much continue as before, with sales up. 'For most people in the country, they are carrying on doing what they were doing before.' He added: 'I'm optimistic. We have got a good track record of dealing with these things both in the UK a few years ago and in Greece last year, where we emerged with higher market share and better profitability. 'The world keeps turning. Of course, it is early days. The job is to focus on the future. 'There will be a period of uncertainty in the financial markets. But Dixons is coming from a position of strength.' Chief executive of electronics firm Dixons Carphone, Seb James (pictured), has argued his company would handle the result well Online grocer Ocado believes it might also be on course to benefit from Brexit, with the weaker pound likely to help it secure a long-awaited overseas licensing deal. And in the telecoms industry, BT chief executive Gavin Patterson said some British businesses would fail but it could give others space to grow. 'I see this as a moment of opportunity,' he added. 'There are going to be businesses that don't make it through this.' Dido Harding, chief executive of mobile operator TalkTalk, struck a note of defiance, saying: 'What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I refuse to be doom and gloom.' Investment bankers are likely to find the Leave vote hardest to swallow. Before the referendum, several warned jobs would move abroad if Britain lost its access to the EU's single market. But Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley denied rumours yesterday that they had pre-let office space in Frankfurt in case a rapid move was needed. New Zealand Police have come under fire for footage which appears to show them pushing a man to the ground forcing his hearing aid to fall out. Filmed in New Plymouth on the North Island, the man who uploaded the video said his friend was arrested after opening an alcoholic beverage in a liquor-ban area. Footage shows the officers handling the man before pushing him to the ground with his face against the concrete. Scroll down for video Footage uploaded online shows New Zealand police arresting a man in New Plymouth At the beginning of the video the man appears to be standing in front of a police officer, with his hands cuffed behind him. He doesn't look to be putting up a fight however the officer can be seen putting his arm around the man's throat in a headlock. 'Hey no need to choke him', the person filming can be heard saying. 'Oi, his hearing aid, bro', the man says later in the footage. During another section of the video a police officer appears to put the man in a headlock The arrested man was standing by the side of the road (left) before he was put into a police car (right) The arrested man is then put into a police car and taken away in handcuffs. New Zealand Police told Daily Mail Australia they were aware of the footage and are investigating the incident. 'Police were made aware of this video recording and the arrest on Tuesday this week and are currently investigating the incident to establish whether the use of force was appropriate and what the actual events were that lead to the arrest of this person,'they said in a statement. Christianity swept across Europe to become a monopoly religion in much the same way Starbucks cornered the global coffee market, science writer Matt Ridley claimed yesterday Christianity swept across Europe to become a monopoly religion in much the same way Starbucks cornered the global coffee market, science writer Matt Ridley claimed yesterday. Both had become ubiquitous, monopolistic and eventually intolerant of competitors said the journalist and Conservative peer. Discussing his book The Evolution of Everything: How Ideas Emerge at the Chalke Valley History Festival, sponsored by the Daily Mail, he explained his thesis that bottom-up trends are the key to understanding our world. We give far too much importance to individuals in history that is my claim and that is a pretty big claim, he said. Ridley, known for arguing that human minds form a great collective brain, said any of the many little cults in the Roman Empire could have become Europes dominant belief system. He added: Religions are a good example of things that have taken a very specific form but have a sort of inevitability. The notion that the Roman Empire was ripe for a monopoly religion to take it over at around the time of Christ is probably an inevitable one. There were a huge number of different religions in the Empire and the chances were that one of them would do a Starbucks, become ubiquitous, monopolistic and eventually intolerant and kick the other ones out. In the first century AD, a mystic from Cappadocia was far better known and followed than Jesus it was chance that his philosophy fell by the wayside for Christianity, said Ridley. Its a bit like Google. Maybe other companies were just as good at inventing search engines but Google just happened to scoop the pool. A High Street squeeze means some popular fashion chains are now selling only one in three items at full price. Many stores appear to be running permanent promotions and, this year, some had sales on summer collections as early as Easter. The pattern suggests shoppers would be mad to pay the original price for any new dress or pair of shoes. Some fashion chains, like French Connection and Karen Millen, sell most products below the original label price The combination of the cut-throat sales and the rise of cheap online fashion stores has driven down prices. As a result, retail analysts are reporting the first drop in the annual value of spending on clothes for six years. The figures come from retail analysts, Kantar Worldpanel, who said sales of clothing, shoes and accessories in the 52 weeks to June 5 were down by 0.1per cent compared to the year before. The real surprise is the fact that the vast majority of products at some famous chains, like French Connection and Karen Millen, are sold at below the original label price. Consumer insight director at Kantar, Glen Tooke, said: Stores are becoming increasingly reliant on discounting and power has shifted into the hands of consumers. They have come to expect discounts throughout the year and are trained to shop during sale periods. Mr Tooke said: Retailers are suffering from these shifting expectations before its administration, discounting accounted for almost 60per cent of BHS sales. At the same time French Connection and Karen Millen both sell only 37 per cent of stock at full price. The problem is exacerbated by retailers over-buying and then needing to clear stock simply to make room for the next season. The backlash against high fashion means supermarkets now hold a 10.1per cent share of the clothing market Mr Tooke said some fashion retailers appear to have lost touch with shoppers by pushing the latest cat walk trends, rather than what people actually want to wear. He said making clothes that are good quality, flattering and a good fit are more appealing than a copy of something seen on a model in Paris. Mr Tooke said the fall in the value of sales will be a real wake-up call for retailers and brands. He said: In a highly competitive marketplace, they both need to be much more nimble and responsive to the new consumer. Loyalty is a thing of the past and with the market witnessing such drastic change over the past decade, stores and brands can no longer rely on doing the same things for the same shoppers again and again. Two-fifths of consumers say that clothing being on trend is not important to them yet brands and manufacturers are continuing to sacrifice quality, fit and price for trend-led products, and weve witnessed a number of high-profile retailers come under criticism for doing so. The backlash against high fashion means supermarkets now hold a 10.1per cent share of the clothing market. The new chief executive at Marks & Spencer, Steve Rowe, has promised a move away from fashion fads towards improved fit and style At the same time almost a quarter of fashion spend 23per cent now happens online, compared with just 2per cent in 2006. The total value of the market has grown by 20per cent to 36 billion over the past decade, however the average annual spend per person has only increased by 10 in the same time, to 767. While average spending had hardly risen, Kantar said the impact of social media, selfies and Instagram are having an impact. It said the 16per cent of women who are on Instagram and constantly sharing pictures of themselves spend an average of 200 a year more than those who do not. The new chief executive at Marks & Spencer, Steve Rowe, has promised a move away from fashion fads towards improved fit and style. We need to listen to more of what the customer says, he said recently. We have spent a lot of time telling them what they want and not hearing what they really need. Stephen Crabb launched his bid for the Tory leadership with a swipe at Boris Johnsons public school background Stephen Crabb launched his bid for the Tory leadership last night with a swipe at Boris Johnsons public school background. The Work and Pensions Secretary presented himself as the blue collar candidate for the top job. He hit out at Mr Johnsons comment in 2013 that he would like to be leader if the ball came loose from the back of the scrum. Mr Crabb pointed out that, unlike Eton-educated Mr Johnson, he had had to learn to grab opportunities rather than waiting for them to fall into his lap. He said: On the rainy rugby fields of West Wales I learned that it is not a question of waiting for the ball to pop out of the back of the scrum. Mr Crabb said he had a fabulous education at a really good comprehensive school across the road from the council house where I lived. He acknowledged he is the underdog in the Tory leadership race but unveiled his joint ticket with Business Secretary Sajid Javid, who would be his Chancellor. Mr Crabb, who backed Remain during the referendum campaign, said there could be no way to subvert the Brexit process. He set out his aims for the negotiations, saying: The one message that came through louder than any other in the vote last week is that the British people want to control immigration. Whenever Welfare Secretary Stephen Crabb leaves his constituency office in West Wales, he deliberately takes a look at a nearby council-run sheltered housing complex. For it is there in a tiny one-bedroom flat that his 72-year-old father, Philip, has lived alone and on benefits for almost 45 years. For Crabb, there are no happy childhood memories of his father who subjected his mother, Jacqui, to years of emotional and physical abuse. One of my earliest memories is of getting between my mother and father as he came at her with a knife terrifying, says Crabb. Not surprisingly, at the age of eight, his mum took their three sons to her parents two-bedroom council flat in Glasgow. Crabb never lived under the same roof as his father again. Despite such a horrific relationship with his father, the two men had a private reunion in March although Crabb has never spoken publicly about how the meeting went. The rest of his childhood was spent living hand-to-mouth as his family relied on sickness benefits and hand-outs from the local Baptist church. Whenever Welfare Secretary Stephen Crabb leaves his constituency office in West Wales, he deliberately takes a look at a nearby council-run sheltered housing complex Young Crabb was mocked by other children as his mum couldnt afford a school uniform and he played truant to go potato-picking for money to buy training shoes. With such a tough background, Stephen Crabb, 43, is a rare specimen in David Camerons ex-public schoolboy-dominated Cabinet. Eventually, having returned to Haverfordwest, his mother slowly weaned herself off welfare payments, getting a job in an office. As for the young Crabb, being a bright lad, he read avidly especially newspapers (keeping a scrapbook of the Falklands War in 1982 when he was only nine). After attending the local state school, he studied politics at Bristol University. Summer jobs included work on a building site and labouring in Newport docks where he lived in a tent. At university, he met his French wife Beatrice, who now runs his constituency office. With a tough background Crabb is a rare specimen in Camerons ex-public schoolboy-dominated Cabinet They have a son and a daughter at state secondary school. A keen rugby player and fanatical supporter of the Welsh national side, he plays for the Commons and Lords team. After graduating, he joined the Tories, gained an MBA at London Business School and forged a career in the voluntary sector. He also worked in policy for the London Chamber of Commerce and became a marketing consultant. Elected as an MP in 2005, his promotion from Welsh Secretary to Secretary for Work and Pensions in March (after Iain Duncan Smiths resignation) offered him the chance to help those at the bottom of society a place hed managed to escape. Indeed, Crabb has movingly recalled when his family was liberated from benefits. When my mother bought our first car, a third-hand VW Polo that cost 700, thats a hell of a big deal! Before that, wed use public transport. Wed have day-trips to the beach on a bus which were lovely of course but the difference in your social and economic opportunities when you have a car is enormous. The most powerful thing to me, looking back, is the way that my mother went through a crisis in her life and became welfare-dependent. As we got older, [she] moved progressively from a position of complete welfare dependency to being fully economically independent, working full-time. That has to be the model of the way the welfare system should work. Prime Minister David Cameron meets farm owner Richard Williams and strokes a Welsh Lamb held by then Secretary of State for Wales Stephen Crabb during Visit to Tyfos Farm in Denbighshire in 2011 It was no surprise that he recalled his upbringing while launching his leadership campaign yesterday saying: Nothing was handed to me on a plate. While he never mentioned millionaire old Etonian Boris Johnson by name, the implication was intended to be noticed. Crabbs aim is to give a voice to the working classes who were empowered by Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s but who feel their interests are now ignored by the two main parties. At a time of cuts and having taken over from Duncan Smith who had quit in protest at proposed reductions to disability benefits, Crabb faced formidable challenges. When he backed cuts to employment support allowance for the disabled that critics claimed would leave claimants 30 a week worse off, vandals daubed Why do you hate the sick? on his office door. He voted against the legalisation of same-sex marriages and attracted criticism for his past links with a charity that sponsored a gay cure An online petition called for him to be removed as a patron of learning disabilities charity Pembrokeshire MENCAP. Crabb was unfazed. His guiding principle is for a welfare system that provides support and basis for transformation in peoples lives. A favourite phrase is: Behind every statistic is a human being. While he voted Remain, he insists hes not a bought-up, paid-up member of the EU family. As regard other policies, he voted against the legalisation of same-sex marriages and attracted criticism for his past links with a charity that sponsored a gay cure conference in 2009 that looked at therapeutic approaches to same-sex attraction. The Christian Action Research and Education charity actively supports and encourages marriage between a man and a woman and at its events, gay and bisexual people are referred to as sexually broken and told that they can become ex-gay. Four years ago, the charity placed 20 interns with several MPs, including Crabb. Five MPs, including Labours David Lammy and Liz Kendall severed their ties with the group when they learnt about the attempts to re-educate homosexuals. Crabb, though, has since said: Yes, Im a Christian but believing in gay cure therapies is not what I believe and has never been what I believe. Days before last years general election, Stephen Crabb was asked about his leadership ambitions. He replied: I dont have time to engage in fantasy politics about my own career. Opposition leader says he is sensing mood to change the government Mr Albanese says his focus is to be a member of the Shorten cabinet Bill Shorten has shrugged off suggestions his role as Labor leader is in jeopardy should he lose Saturday's election. Speculation is mounting that popular frontbencher Anthony Albanese could mount a leadership challenge if Mr Shorten does poorly on Saturday. 'It's no surprise that in the last couple of days the kitchen sink gets thrown at you in order to discourage people from voting for you,' Mr Shorten told Alan Jones on radio 2GB. Scroll down for video Speculation is mounting that Anthony Albanese (right) could mount a leadership challenge if Bill Shorten (left) does poorly on Saturday. Asked how many seats he had to win to prevent Mr Albanese from becoming the next Labor leader, Mr Shorten responded: 'Seriously silly question' The opposition leader visited the Port of Botany in Sydney's south on Wednesday for a media appearance with Mr Albanese. Asked how many seats he had to win to prevent Mr Albanese from becoming the next Labor leader, Mr Shorten responded: 'Seriously silly question.' 'How many seats does Malcolm Turnbull have to lose before Tony Abbott moves on him?' Mr Shorten said. The Opposition leader declared he was sensing a mood to change the government, despite opinion polls this week suggesting otherwise. Mr Albanese said he was optimistic he would be receiving an incoming ministerial brief on Sunday. The Opposition leader declared he was sensing a mood to change the government, despite opinion polls this week suggesting otherwise 'How many seats does Malcolm Turnbull have to lose before Tony Abbott moves on him?' Mr Shorten said No one in the Labor party was interested in dividing up the spoils of opposition, he said. Mr Albanese seized on Britain's departure from the European Union and former UK prime minister David Cameron, as a warning to Australian voters. 'That's what happens when you are so weak that you have a right-wing rump in your party that is dragging you behind - it's like a ball and chain, you can see it on Turnbull as well,' he said. 'It's not the flu that causing him the problem, it's the weight he's carrying.' Earlier Mr Shorten visited a community centre in the marginal Liberal seat of Banks, in Sydney's south. Mr Albanese said he was optimistic he would be receiving an incoming ministerial brief on Sunday No one in the Labor party was interested in dividing up the spoils of opposition, Mr Albanese said He was quick to jokingly blame the media pack when a toddler started crying during a painfully out-of-tune rendition of Home Among the Gum Trees at a childcare centre. 'The media has upset you,' Mr Shorten said. He also pressed the flesh with a room full of Vietnamese, Macedonian and other migrants at a multicultural morning tea. After a round of handshakes, he told them that only Labor would protect Medicare. 'I believe the health care of any Australian is important to all Australians,' he said. Bill Shorten (left) and Anthony Albanese after a press conference launching the Labor Party's infrastrucutre plan The Women Who Kill Lions focused on two women who spoke about the growing number of female hunters who kill for the thrill of it The Women Who Kill Lions Rating: Comedian Ricky Gervais must have been accused of a lot of things in his time but giving a woman hes never met pneumonia is probably a first. The woman is American hunt enthusiast Rebecca Francis who appeared in last nights The Women Who Kill Lions (Channel 4). When she posted a picture of herself smiling alongside the body of the giraffe she had just slaughtered, Gervais retweeted the photograph to his 11 million followers questioning why she would do such a thing. It resulted in death threats and hate mail, mostly from the UK, the stress of which, according to Rebecca, caused her to succumb to pneumonia. She was one of two women featured in the documentary about the growing number of female hunters who kill for the thrill of it and the social media fame. Rebeccas Wyoming home was crammed full of the mounted heads of the magnificent beasts shed shot, there was even a giant, stuffed grizzly bear in the corner. A trip to Mozambique is to be her next adventure, where she hopes to kill rhinoceros. The camera crew followed her as she hunted a black-tailed deer with a crossbow. Watching her euphoria as she struck the beautiful creature was as hard to watch as the kill itself. Listening to Rebecca try to justify her hateful hobby would be comedic if it wasnt so disturbing. She claimed to be an animal lover and a conservationist. She even suggested that killing the giraffe was an act of kindness as the local tribespeople were able to eat the meat and shed saved it from a painful death by an animal predator. As sickening as Rebeccas actions were, she somehow wasnt as bad as Jacine Jadresko, a Croatian-born businesswoman who had killed a lion, paying 12,000 for the privilege, and loved every minute of it. DEPARTURE OF THE DAY Coronation Streets thick-as-a-brick builder Jason Grimshaw has left Weatherfield for a new life in Thailand, departing the same way all characters do in a taxi. Family and friends were devastated, although clearly not enough to give him a lift to the airport. Advertisement Jacine has killed animals from 20 species in three years, ranging from buffalo to bears and hoped that an elephant would provide her next trophy and photo opportunity. When asked if she could hit it with a tranquillising dart instead of a bullet she replied: I could. But Im not going to. With a cabinet full of guns at her Canadian home, Jacine had already introduced her ten-year-old son Diesel to game hunting. The online abuse she suffered didnt seem to bother her, whereas Rebecca pulled out of filming after pop star Miley Cyrus also attacked her on Twitter. Youd like to think the irony of feeling trapped and targeted wouldnt be lost on Rebecca, but youd be wrong. Coming a year after Cecil the Lion was slain by an American dentist, the documentary was an important albeit horrifyingly brutal one. Britain's Favourite Dogs Rating: Luckily, Britains Favourite Dogs (ITV) redressed the balance as it counted down the nations top ten breeds. Our busy lives mean that very large dogs are becoming less popular in favour of smaller breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers and Jack Russells. Old English Sheepdogs are now so rare that they are considered a vulnerable breed by the Kennel Club. One hundred years ago the Fox Terrier was the most widely kept dog in the country, today its the Labrador a breed that was also voted the most loyal in ITVs survey. More than 500,000 Labradors are kept as pets, including Derby the assistance dog owned by Jo Hill. More than half a million Labrador Retrievers are kept as pets - including Derby, an assistance dog who helps wheelchair-bound Jo Ten years ago Jo was crushed between two cars and left wheelchair bound as a result of her injuries. With four children she struggled to cope at home. Then along came Derby the wonder dog, who helps Jo around the home with everything from unloading the washing machine to stripping beds. Before Derby she didnt have the confidence to leave the house alone. Today, with Derby walking beside her wheelchair, she no longer has that fear. No wonder Jo said: He gave me my life back. The one-off programme featured endless footage of energetic hounds running in slow motion, as well as lingering shots of adorable mutts with big, brown eyes. Three fifths of people consider themselves working class according to a major research project - despite a drop in manufacturing jobs. Although manual workers no longer the majority in Britain, 60 per cent of people describe themselves as working class compared with 40 per cent who say they are middle class - the same as in 1983. Britons increasingly claim that the constraints of their social class are standing in the way of making improvements in their lives. The warning follows years of growing evidence that social mobility the chance for those born into low-skilled and low-income families to haul themselves up the ladder has been declining. Three out of four people believe class barriers are tougher to break through now than ten years ago, according to a major research project It came from the British Social Attitudes survey, which has been carried out each year since 1983 and is widely considered to give a reliable picture of the way millions of people think. The latest findings show 73 per cent of those surveyed say it is fairly difficult or very difficult to move between social classes. Among people who consider themselves to be working class, the perception that class barriers cannot easily be crossed is now shared by 76 per cent. The high levels of class consciousness and the belief that class limits life chances contrast with optimism until ten years ago that Britain was becoming a more open society with greater opportunities for everybody. Just before Labours 1997 election victory, John Prescott MP a symbol of working-class Old Labour in Tony Blairs New Labour declared we are all middle class now while Mr Blair pledged to liberate Britain from the old class divisions. But in 2005 the BSA survey said 65 per cent thought it was very or fairly difficult to move between classes. Concern that class barriers had not melted away began to deepen after 2007 and the arrival of harsher economic times. Studies began to show that children born after 1970 were less likely to do better in life than their parents compared with children born in the 1950s. This was widely blamed on the abolition of grammar schools in the 1970s and 1980s that gave an intensive education to bright working-class children. Just before Labours 1997 election victory, John Prescott MP a symbol of working-class Old Labour in Tony Blairs New Labour declared we are all middle class now while Mr Blair pledged to liberate Britain from the old class divisions NatCen, the research group that carried out the BSA study, said the findings underlined the belief that a class divide contributed to the European referendum result, in which large numbers of voters outside London and the wealthier areas of the country voted Leave. Kirby Swales of NatCen said: The class divide is alive and well in Britain and the economic instability and austerity of recent years seem to have sharpened our belief that it is difficult to move from one class to another. Our findings certainly show that people who believe themselves to be working class are more likely to believe in a class divide than those who say they are middle class, and more think it is difficult to move between classes than did in the past. He added: Class identity is also closely linked to attitudes in other areas. Those who say they are working class are far more likely to be opposed to immigration, one of the defining issues of the EU referendum, even when they are in professional and managerial jobs. The survey canvassed views from 4,328 people who were interviewed in the second half of last year. It found 60 per cent of people consider themselves to be working class, a level that has not changed since 1983. After 50 years with MDU Resources Group, Debra Anderson is retiring. "Some days, it seems like yesterday that I started," she said. Anderson has served for most of her tenure as executive secretary to the chief executive officer. She has worked for six CEOs over the course of 45 years. "They were all different," she said of her line of bosses. "You adapt to how they work and get to know them." She said she admires all of them. Asked if Anderson has had his back during his three years as CEO of the multibillion-dollar energy company, Dave Goodin laughed. "Every day," he said. Goodin described Anderson as thorough, focused and dedicated, noting the many nights and weekends she spends at the office. Among her many roles, Anderson helps prepare SEC filings, provides information to shareholders, and schedules travel for the top executive and board. On 9/11, the company had a board meeting scheduled in New York. That meant New York-based employees were not on Wall Street that day. It also meant people from Bismarck were in the city for the meeting. Anderson helped get everyone home safe. "That was a little tiny thing compared to what New York faced," she said. At a going-away party for Anderson on Thursday, Chief Information Officer Peggy Link told a story she felt demonstrated Anderson's serious attitude toward her work: It was Link's first week in the position, and she was in charge of tech support for a board meeting. She didn't know yet how seriously Anderson took board meetings. Apparently, Anderson tried to call her at home six times. Link's kids thought the number was a telemarketer, and she did not call back that weekend. When she showed up at work on Monday, Anderson stopped by her desk with only one thing to say: "I count on you. Don't let me down again." Nicki Ferderer, Anderson's assistant, will take over her duties soon. Anderson has been training her for several months. Ferderer said her eight years with Anderson have taught her many things, including how to present herself with top executives and board members, how to show them respect and look after them. Anderson started with the company on June 24, 1966, as a secretary in the art, merchandise and advertising department. A 17-year-old from a small town in Minnesota, she had just graduated from a one-year program in Mankato. Her uncle suggested she apply for a job at MDU. She said she trembled as she climbed the steps on her first day. She moved to Bismarck when the company relocated its headquarters here in 1968. She meant to stay six months. Soon, she had joined the advertising and marketing club in town and helped establish a ski club. She decided to stay. Anderson took on her present role in 1971 when her predecessor retired after 30 years, though she said she didn't think she would stay as long. "You just never know," she said. After Donald Trump hit out at Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, calling her 'Pocahontas' as he criticized her claim she is part Native American, his surrogates are now taking aim at her too. On Wednesday while speaking in Maine during a rally for the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, radio host Howie Carr used the Indian 'war whoop' gesture while referring to Warren. 'You know Elizabeth Warren, right?' the conservative Boston-based talk radio host said before erupting into an imitation of war whoops while placing his hand over his mouth. Scroll down for video On Wednesday while speaking in Maine during a rally for the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, radio host Howie Carr used the Indian 'war whoop' gesture (pictured) while referring to Warren 'You know Elizabeth Warren, right?' the conservative Boston-based talk radio host said before erupting into an imitation of war whoops while placing his hand over his mouth (pictured) 'Elizabeth Warren said, or maybe it was Hillary, she said the only people for Donald Trump are rich guys,' Carr continued, according to Politico. 'Are any of you guys out there rich guys? I don't see too many rich guys out here today. Except me. Did I hear that? I didn't come here to be made sport of,' he said. In response to criticism following Wednesday's incident, Carr told Daily Mail Online he did not understand what the problem is. 'She's not a Native American. This is between two white people here,' he said. 'This is something that I have said repeatedly, what Scott Brown has said repeatedly, I'm glad it's getting attention,' he continued as he spoke to Daily Mail Online. 'I challenged her repeatedly for at least four years to get a DNA test to settle this once and for all and so has Scott Brown. 'She refuses to get a DNA test and release employment records to prove she is an Indian.' Carr also mentioned that previously they had sent off a cap to a pen that Warren had taken off with her teeth to an ancestry company in the hopes of confirming her Native American lineage. 'If you're a federally recognized Native American, you have a card issued by the bureau of Indian affairs. I'd like to know if she has such a card,' he said. 'I don't think she does or she would have provided it to the media years earlier.' Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren pictured above on Wednesday. On Monday Warren appeared alongside Clinton on the campaign trail in what looked like a tryout for a potential running mate Donald Trump called Warren 'Pocahontas' and 'very racist' earlier this week after the senator claimed to be 1/32nd Cherokee, which may have given her preferential treatment to get hired for her former job as a Harvard University professor Carr also noted that the push back he has received following Wednesday's incident is 'an example of the double standard in the media'. He referenced several incidents including when Joe Biden 'said you have to have a slight Indian accent to go into a Dunkin Donut in Delaware' and Harry Reid reportedly saying President Barack Obama could be a successful candidate due to his speaking patterns with no Negro dialect. 'She is a fraud that's what this is all about. I want her to take the DNA test, that's all,' Carr told Daily Mail Online. Trump called Warren 'Pocahontas' and 'very racist' earlier this week after the senator claimed to be 1/32nd Cherokee, which may have given her preferential treatment to get hired for her former job as a Harvard University professor. 'She made up her heritage, which I think is racist. I think she's a racist, actually because what she did was very racist,' Trump told NBC on Monday. 'What she did was very racist,' he continued. Trump also called Warren 'one of the least productive senators in the United States Senate. We call her Pocahontas for a reason.' 'She said she's five per cent Native American. She was unable to prove it. She used the fact that she was Native American to advance her career,' Trump said. 'Elizabeth Warren is a total fraud. I know it. Other people who work with her know it. Elizabeth Warren is a total fraud.' Warren repeatedly went after Trump in personal terms, repeating her line that Trump is a 'money grubber' Trump went after the Democratic liberal firebrand on Monday when Warren appeared alongside Clinton on the campaign trail in what looked like a tryout for a potential running mate. Warren repeatedly went after Trump in personal terms, repeating her line that Trump is a 'money grubber,' then kept hitting, all but ensuring a slug-fest if for some reason Trump were in the mood to keep quiet. 'When Donald Trump says he'll make America great, he means make it even greater for rich guys just like Donald Trump,' Warren charged. 'That's who Donald Trump is - the guy who wants it all for himself.' She called him 'a nasty man who will never become president of the United States and a 'thin-skinned bully.' Now that Warren has endorsed Clinton, there has been increasing talk that Clinton should select her as a way to unite the party and appeal to the progressive Bernie Sanders wing. Trump's attack on Warren brought back a charge made in May when the two had a nasty war of words. Trump started the attack Monday morning when he said Warren 'lied on heritage' (shown above) Trump refashioned his 'goofy' and 'Pocahontas' attacks on Warren (shown above) The charge stems from Warren's 2012 Senate campaign against then-Senator Scott Brown, when it came out that Warren had listed herself as a minority when she was a faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania Law school and at Harvard Law. Warren has said she believed she had Cherokee ancestors and denied she invented the heritage to gain a leg up in academia. 'Everyone on our mother's side aunts, uncles, and grandparents talked openly about their Native American ancestry,' Warren wrote in her memoir in 2014. 'My brothers and I grew up on stories about our grandfather building one-room schoolhouses and about our grandparents' courtship and their early lives together in Indian Territory.' Detailed reporting at the time failed to confirm the legitimacy of the claim. On Tuesday, Warren answered a round of questions on The View, including one about Trump calling her Pocahontas. Warren spoke with the ladies of The View on Tuesday, a day after campaigning for the first time in person beside the Democrats' likely nominee Hillary Clinton 'What this is really about is can they bully me into shutting up, can they just be nasty enough and ugly enough in my direction that I'll say 'Oh,' and just go back into the shadows,' the senator said. 'And the answer is nope, not happening.' While on The View, she denied that claiming to be 1/32nd Cherokee may have given her preferential treatment in university hiring. 'Look, I'm like most people, my brothers and I learned about who we are from our families,' she explained. 'And people who have hired me for my jobs who work on stuff all said that my background didn't have anything to do with it and mostly didn't know about it,' she said of her Native American heritage. Moving on, Warren stayed mum about the veepstakes when asked about it several times. Last week on the 'O'Reilly Factor' on Fox, Trump issued what sounded like a faux apology for the 'Pocohantas' line. 'I do regret calling her Pocahontas, because I think it's a tremendous insult to Pocahontas,' Trump said. Gold Logie nominee Lee Lin Chin has revealed she has her eye on another prize after she asked Opposition Leader Bill Shorten for a place on his cabinet if he wins the 2016 federal election. Chin, who is a presenter for SBS 2 program The Feed, makes the proposition in a sit-down spruiked to be Mr Shorten's 'toughest interview yet' to be aired on Thursday night. 'Mr Shorten, should you win might there be a place in your cabinet for someone like me? Minister for Good Times? I'm after more power,' the veteran newsreader asked in a playful exchange. Gold Logie nominee Lee Lin Chin (pictured) has revealed she has her eye on another prize after she asked Opposition Leader Bill Shorten for a place on his cabinet if he wins the 2016 federal election Not missing a beat, the Australian prime ministerial hopeful indicated he was open to the idea. 'You could well be the missing ingredient in our armoury to run Australia. We would like to draft you,' Mr Shorten said. Chin, who has won over Australians with her satirical skits on The Feed, said she was willing to negotiate. 'Well just give me a portfolio and Ill come up with something,' she said. Chin (right), who is a presenter for SBS 2 program The Feed, makes the proposition to Mr Shorten (left) in an interview to be aired on Thursday night Not missing a beat, the Australian prime ministerial hopeful indicated he was open to the idea The Feed had also extended an interview opportunity to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull but he declined. Chin has become a regular presenter for the SBS 2 program and has won legions of fans for her witty banter on Twitter. Her social media manager, comedian Chris Leben, ran a TV Week Logies campaign to have the newsreader nominated for a Gold Logie this year. Back in May last year following the 2015 Logie Awards, a tweet on Lee Lin's account read: 'Just decided to win the gold next year, I deserve it #TVWEEKLogies'. And after her nomination was announced last month, a new tweet was published reading: 'Waking up a gold Logie nominee just feels better you know?' Chin was up for the gong this year alongside The Project's Carrie Bickmore and Waleed Aly, The Block host Scott Cam, Family Feud's Grant Denyer, and Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries actress Essie Davis. Ultimately 37-year-old Aly claimed victory on the night. An adorable puppy trapped in a hot car on Tuesday was saved by police in Florida. The Pensacola Police Department posted an image of the pooch - as well as the broken car window - on Facebook. Police wrote: 'Don't. Just don't. If you leave your dog in a hot car and that dog is suffering, we will do whatever we have to do to free him. Or her. Doesn't matter, we like both kinds of dogs. An adorable puppy trapped in a hot car on Tuesday was saved by police in Florida. The Pensacola Police Department posted an image of the pooch - as well as the broken car window - on Facebook 'We will drive your pooch to the caring folks at the Escambia County Animal Shelter and we will drop you off with the caring folks at the Escambia County Detention Facility. 'You will both receive attention, food, and shelter, albeit different kinds. So, don't.' According to Accuweather, Tuesday's temperature in Pensacola reached a high of 91 degrees Fahrenheit. One commenter on the Facebook post wrote: 'Who determines if the animal is "suffering"?' Pensacola police responded, writing: 'Admittedly, it is a judgement call. 'If you did this, you would have to be able to articulate the facts that led you to believe the animal was suffering to be held not liable.' Pensacola police said on Facebook: 'We will drive your pooch to the caring folks at the Escambia County Animal Shelter and we will drop you off with the caring folks at the Escambia County Detention Facility' In response to a commenter asking 'Is the baby ok?', police wrote: 'He seems to be. He is recovering at the Animal Shelter.' Another commenter asked: 'Any legal repercussions for the person who left a puppy to bake?' Pensacola police responded: 'Yes, Esc. Co. Animal Control is handling that portion of the case.' More than half of all female university students are regularly skipping meals before they go out drinking so they can compensate for the calories in alcohol. A new study has shown how prevalent the dangerous trend of drunkorexia is in Australia with more than 60 per cent of female students admitting to regularly binge drinking on an empty stomach. Some women even skip meals and engage in other extreme weight-control measures more than three months before or after a planned drinking event to offset the calories from alcohol. A new study, led by University of South Australia PhD student Alissa Knight (pictured), has shown more than 60 per cent of female Australian students admitted to regularly binge drinking on an empty stomach The research, led by University of South Australia PhD student Alissa Knight, found an unexpected number of women reported they only used behaviours like starvation, purging or extreme exercise when they were thought they would be going out drinking, such as on a Saturday night at a party. WHAT IS DRUNKOREXIA? Drunkorexia is when a person restricts their diet, engages in extreme exercise or self-induced purging to offset the calories anticipated or ingested from drinking alcohol. Most common drunkorexia behaviours for female university students: Skipping meals - 37.5% Consuming low-calorie or sugar-free alcoholic beverages during a drinking event - 46.3% Exercising after a drinking event - 51.2% *Source: University of South Australia Advertisement 'The most common drunkorexia behaviours in young female university students were skipping meals before a drinking event (37.5%), consuming low-calorie or sugar-free alcoholic beverages during a drinking event (46.3%), and exercising after a drinking event (51.2%),' Ms Knight said. The research, which was published in Australian Psychologist on Thursday, found the women who only engage in drunkorexia-type behaviour when they know they have a night out coming up generally lead a normal life when alcohol is not involved. 'This finding suggests that drunkorexia may represent a new subtype of eating disorder that differs from traditional eating disorders on the basis of the underlying motivation,' Ms Knight said. 'Whereas traditional eating disorders are generally motivated by an underlying desire to be thin and to be in control, drunkorexia predominately appears to be motivated by a desire to drink large quantities of alcohol alongside the desire to be thin. Research found an unexpected number of women reported they only used behaviours like starvation, purging or extreme exercise when they were thought they would be going out drinking The study found more than half of all female university students are regularly skipping meals before they go out drinking so they can compensate for the calories in alcohol 'Drunkorexia appears to have evolved from the need for young girls to meet possibly the two most prominent social norms for young adults - drinking and thinness.' While drunkorexia is not currently a medical term, Ms Knight said concern was rising among health professionals about the effects this behaviour could have on cognitive, behavioural, and physical health outcomes. Women who engage in drunkorexia-type behaviour are more at risk of developing conditions like hypoglycaemia, liver cirrhosis, nutritional deficits, brain and heart damage, memory lapses, blackouts, depression and cognitive deficits due to increased alcohol toxicity. UniSA Psychology Clinic Director, Dr Susan Simpson, who supervised the research, said heavy alcohol use on an empty stomach or after strenuous exercise was known to be vastly more dangerous than binge drinking. 'Women typically weigh less, have less alcohol-metabolising enzymes, and less total body water to dilute alcohol in the blood, and these differences in alcohol metabolism make them more vulnerable than men in developing cirrhosis, brain damage, or other health conditions resulting from alcohol misuse,' Dr Simpson said. Sir Philip Greens stepson made a quick 3million profit buying and selling one of BHSs shops. MPs have questioned why Sir Philip sold the store in Ealing, West London, just a week before the whole chain was sold for 1. Brett Palos, the son of Sir Philips wife Lady Green, was able to buy the shop for 6.9million and sell it again just four months later for 10million. Some critics have suggested cash-strapped BHS could have got a better price for the building. Sir Philip Greens stepson Brett Palos (pictured with his mother Tina Green) made a quick 3million profit buying and selling one of BHSs shops Sir Philip insisted that he was not involved in the decision to sell the property to his stepson at a price 30 per cent below what it was worth just weeks later. Mr Palos, 41, said he could not see a conflict of interest. He bought the Ealing BHS store through his property development company Thackeray Estates, in early 2015. Lossmaking BHS was offloaded in March 2015 for 1 to former bankrupt Dominic Chappell. Then in June, the Ealing shop was sold again, for 3million profit after what Mr Palos called an unsolicited approach. Mr Chappell told MPs he was shocked when he discovered that Sir Philip had sold it to Mr Palos. When Mr Chappell questioned the deal, he claims Green responded: Thats showbusiness. Sir Philip told MPs: It was not my transaction, I was not involved in it. The shop was bought by property developer Southern Grove with backing from Topland Group, and it has since been sold for a third time, to a housing association which plans to convert the store into 136 affordable homes and 15,000 square feet of retail space. The BHS store in Ealing, West London, has since been sold again and there are plans to convert it into 136 affordable homes and 15,000 square feet of retail space. Sir Philip appears to hold his stepson in high regard, suggesting that he may be better suited to succeed in the retail world than the tycoons own children Brandon and Chloe. He previously said of his son and daughter that they may not have what it takes, adding: Theyre both very smart, but youve got to dedicate yourself to this stuff, it doesnt happen on its own. Mr Palos is the son of Tina Green from her first marriage. She married Sir Philip in 1990, when she was 41 and he was 38, and soon became integral to his business empire. He has also admitted injuring himself in his cell but claims it was a 'moment of They also released a mugshot showing no visible injuries and stated he had been beating his own face with a phone A gay YouTube star on vacation in Los Angeles has been charged with filing a false police report after police say he lied about being the victim of a hate crime attack. Calum McSwiggan, 26, from London, claimed on his social media accounts on Monday that he had been 'beaten up by three guys' outside a popular West Hollywood gay club. He added that the authorities would not help him, treating him like a 'like a second class citizen.' He said the attack left him hospitalized with 'three broken teeth and six stitches in my forehead,' which he showcased in a photo from his hospital bed, posted to Facebook and Instagram. 'Last night was the worst night of my life and I'm really struggling to find the words to talk about it,' wrote McSwiggan on Facebook and Instagram after the alleged attack. But almost immediately after the post, LA County Sheriffs Department released a statement disputing the claims and saying officers observed him 'injuring himself with the handle and receiver to a payphone' inside his cell. Scroll down for video Calum McSwiggan (pictured in his arrest on Monday, left, and afterwards in hospital, right) has been charged with filing a false police report after police say he lied about being the victim of a hate crime attack They say that McSwiggan was arrested for vandalizing a car and that he did not appear to have any injuries when he was taken into custody. The department also released his arrest mugshot which reveals he did not have any visible trauma before injuring himself in his cell. McSwiggan, who has more than 60,00 subscribers on YouTube, was was charged Wednesday with one misdemeanor count of making a false police report. He was released late Monday after posting $20,000 bail. Today, the 26-year-old released a statement on his Facebook page acknowledging he had deliberately injured himself with the pay phone. Calum McSwiggan, 26, from London, claimed on his social media accounts on Monday that he had been 'beaten up by three guys' outside a popular West Hollywood gay club 'Last night was the worst night of my life and I'm really struggling to find the words to talk about it,' wrote McSwiggan on Facebook and Instagram after the alleged attack But he claims he had only done so to get transferred to hospital from jail and insists the attack outside the gay club was real. 'In a moment of desperation to get out of the cell, I took the pay phone off the wall and hit myself once across the forehead with it as hard as I could. 'I knew I had to injure myself to get out of the cell and into a hospital, and it was the only solution I could find to get myself out of there. 'This is incredibly out of character for me and is testament to how upset I was in that moment. I do not regret doing this as I could still be in the jail cell if I didn't.' McSwiggan and the three friends he was with that night continue to stand by their version of events. The YouTuber said he had been speaking to a man outside The Abbey, a gay club, who was accompanied by two friends, when the stranger's tone and attitude 'flipped'. 'He said something about my friend Melanie and then punched me in the mouth,' he said. 'I blacked out quickly after this but remember being kicked in the body multiple times, I believe by all three men. Explaining: McSwiggan then tweeted on Tuesday he would address the situation in time Injuries: McSwiggan claimed he lost three teeth and needed six stitches in the wake of the attack (above with friends Riyadh Khalaf, Melanie Murphy and Doug Armstrong) 'Shortly afterwards I regained consciousness and instantly realised one of my front teeth was broken. I have spent my whole adult life campaigning for LGBT+ equality and did not take this attack lightly. 'In a moment of devastation, anger and blind rage I kicked the wing mirror of the attacker's car until it broke and then ripped it off with my hands. I also scratched the front of the car with the broken wing mirror before returning back to The Abbey for help.' His friends also back up his story. 'Haven't spoken about it at all but last night @CalumMcSwiggan was attacked by three guys outside a gay bar in LA. It was disgusting and terrifying to see this sh*t still goes on in today's world and to one of my closest and dearest friends,' wrote Riyadh Khalaf, another gay YouTube star, in a series of tweets. 'He has three cracked teeth and stitches in his head but is safe and somewhat well with us now. Please please be safe when out with friends and don't get separated. 'These people knew where we were going to be because of our posts on social media before we went out and even said our names as they beat him.' Another friend, Melanie Murphy, who was there the night of the alleged attack stated that 'everyone is lying in their articles' on Twitter. Khalaf also spoke to DailyMail.com on Wednesday, saying: 'We will be making a video later today giving a full account of what Melanie and I saw after Calum called us saying he was attacked.' He went on to say: 'We were approached by three males in the car park after the attack happened. They were threatening to shoot Calum and I caught it on my phone's camera while pretending to be taking a call from police. Proof: McSwiggan's arrest report (above) shows that he was picked up at 2.30am and released on $20,000 bail Support: Friends came to the defense of McSwiggan on social media in the wake of the attack More information: Khalaf also spoke to DailyMail.com on Wednesday, saying: 'We will be making a video later today giving a full account of what Melanie and I saw after Calum called us saying he was attacked.' Upset: Melanie Murphy, who was there the night of the alleged attack stated that 'everyone is lying in their articles' on Twitter Khalaf then added: 'Of course we still have no idea if these men were the ones who attacked Calum.' McSwiggan said he called police to report the assault but that they seemed more concerned with the damage he had done to the car, than tracking down his attacker. After reporting the alleged hate crime, in which he had admitted smashing the wing mirror off the car, he said he was arrested and taken to a cell. 'I'm heartbroken about the events and these have been the worst few days of my life,' McSwiggan said. 'Many people are trying to discredit my story but this is the full and entire truth. 'Just because there were no visible marks on my face does not mean I was not attacked. Being accused of being a liar and being called a disgrace to the LGBT+ community, a community I've dedicated my life to, is more painful than any hate crime could ever be.' But many members of the LGBT community are outraged that the YouTube star and LGBT rights activist would lie, especially in the wake of the recent events in Orlando when 49 people were shot dead and another 53 injured inside a gay club. Actor and writer Jeffrey Self called McSwiggan's claims and his friends defense of them 'disgusting' on Twitter, before adding: 'I will only read tweets about the YouTube gay who faked a hate crime for the next 24 hours. Send me EVERYTHING.' Damien Nichols meanwhile wrote on Facebook that he witnessed McSwiggan vandalizing cars and alleged that he was caught stealing bottles of alcohol from West Hollywood gay club The Abbey. 'If you like, follow, or watch Calum McSwiggan, boycott. He is faking a bashing, and until he comes clean apologizes and pays for the damage to my friend's car, she should just be ignored (sic),' wrote Nichols. Multiple other people on social media have also come forward to claim that McSwiggan was stealing alcohol while inside the club as well on the night in question. McSwiggan has more than 62,000 followers on his YouTube account, where he posts gay-themed videos like showing his straight friend nude photos of himself and addressing the fact that he made gay webcam videos when he was in university. A new picture has emerged of mining billionaire Gina Rinehart looking slim - just days after her daughter married the love of her life. An excited fan pictured the lithe Mrs Rinehart, the country's wealthiest woman, at a function in Melbourne last month as she accepted an award for a railway at her Roy Hill mine. 'With Gina Rinehart. I can feel the power & respect! #GinaRinehart #mining #rail #core16 #respect #power #wealth #strength #respect,' Sisi Ying wrote on Instagram. The picture was revealed just days after her daughter, Ginia, married her fiance Simon Robinson in a private ceremony at a luxury resort in the Whitsundays. Scroll down for video An excited fan captured a photo with mining billionaire Gina Rinehart at an award ceremony last month. She is pictured on right in 2011 Mrs Rinehart (left) attended the weekend wedding of her daughter Ginia (right), the child she is closest with Poolside fun: Friends posted pictures of towels featuring the words 'Ginia & Simon' at the weekend Another friend posted a picture of a 'Happily Ever After' straw hat from a resort beach Mr Robinson's photographer father, Ted, told local newspaper The Sunshine Coast Daily: 'It was a wonderful wedding and they are very happy together'. Mr Robinson also revealed his son Simon was not Ginia's former bodyguard - despite numerous media reports to the contrary over the past year. Some of Ginia's closest friends, who flew in from around the world, have taken to Instagram to celebrate the occasion. 'Thank you for the most beautiful few days in Paradise (Ginny) & Simon,' said one. Another said: 'My face still hurts from laughing and my feet so sore from dancing!' One posted a picture of pool towels with the words 'Ginia and Simon' written in cursive font and the apparent date of the ceremony, June 25. Another guest wore a straw hat which carried a black band with the words 'happily ever after' branded across it. It was not clear whether Ginia's siblings Bianca, John and Hope attended the nuptials, held at the Qualia resort on Hamilton Island - a location graced by Taylor Swift and Oprah Winfrey in the past. Mrs Rinehart was not invited to the weddings of Bianca and John, her eldest children - with the family famously beset by feuds that have unfolded in court. A coterie of family and friends watched as Ginia Rinehart (right) wed Robinson at the weekend Ginia and partner Simon Robinson married at the luxury Qualia Resort on Hamilton Island, in the Whitsundays The Qualia website boasts that it's 'one of the most idyllic locations in Australia for your wedding ceremony' It was revealed this week that the slim Mrs Rinehart ramped up her efforts to shed the kilos after an actress wore a fat suit to portray her in the Nine Network mini-series, House of Hancock. A cosmetic physician told Woman's Day Mrs Rinehart appeared to have shed between 35 to 40 per cent of her weight in recent years. And Mrs Rinehart, a keen conservative voice, will surely be keeping a keen eye on the results of Saturday's federal election. In 2013, the magnate hobnobbed with guests at her Nationals MP friend Barnaby Joyce's election night party as the results came in. Mr Joyce is in the fight of his life at Saturday's federal election, facing insurgent independent candidate Tony Windsor. A spokesman for Mrs Rinehart denied reports she had sent fly-in, fly-out workers to help Mr Joyce's campaign. Peta Credlin has said that young people who make informal votes in the Australian federal election this Saturday lose 'their right to moan' and urged them to 'get informed'. The former chief of staff to Tony Abbott made the comments during an election panel discussion at the University of Melbourne on Wednesday night, reported The Guardian. The panel also featured the former chief of staff to Julia Gillard, Ben Hubbard, and the ABC's Insiders host Barry Cassidy. Former chief of staff to Tony Abbott, Peta Credlin (pictured at The University of Melbourne) has said if young people vote informally or don't turn up to vote at all, then they 'lose the right to moan' about the outcome of the election During the panel discussion, Ms Credlin said the internet meant that young people had more means than ever before to understand party policies and politics. 'Youve really got to make sure that you are informed,' Ms Credlin said. 'If you are not informed on a particular issue, whatever that issue might be, get yourself informed. Ms Credlin said in the end, people will inherit all the good things that the government has done, and they will get the mess as well. She said a report showed an increase in the amount of young people voting informally. 'Because in the end, you will inherit all the good things that government has done, and youll get the mess as well. There was a report showing a growth in the amount of young people voting informally. Thats an abrogation of your responsibility. If you want to moan, vote and own it. 'If you dont turn up, like in Brexit, or you put in an informal vote, or you dont go and ask the tough questions online or in forums, then I think you lose your right to moan.' Ms Credlin's comments were met with a round of applause. Ms Credlin said the internet meant young people now have more means than ever before to understand party policies and politics She said she believes Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull will retain the leadership in the federal election, but said she didn't know how comfortable his return would be. She said Opposition Leader Bill Shorten should not be dumped as leader of the Labor Party if he lost and should be rewarded for campaigning well. Ms Credlin added that people wanted to see stability and politicians meeting their promises but also they didn't want volatility in the election cycle. 'They want politics to fade into the background so they can get on with their lives,' she said. This is the moment a tiny teacher beat up a neo-Nazi man during a bloody clash between a group of white supremacists and protesters. Yvette Felarca helped organize a counter-protest against members of the Traditionalist Worker Party and Golden State Skinheads who had planned to rally outside the California state Capitol building in Sacramento on Sunday. They were met with hundreds of the counter-protesters and a fight broke out, leaving ten people with stab wounds and other injuries. Felarca, a teacher at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Berkeley, was caught on camera screaming at one of the neo-Nazis to 'get the f*** off our streets.' Yvette Felarca is seen approaching and shouting at a neo-Nazi man during a bloody clash between white supremacists and protesters Felarca was caught on camera screaming at the man and then punching him in the stomach She was also captured punching the man in the stomach before being pushed aside to safety by police officers in riot gear. While she was injured in the clash, she gave an interview afterwards with a bandage wrapped around her head saying she was OK. Felarca, a member of 'By Any Means Necessary' an activist group that believes fascists should not have the right to free speech, told KRCA that she supports the launch of a 'militant' movement to stop Nazis and the Klu Klux Klan. 'If we ignore them and allow them to hold their recruitment rallies, they are not non-violent,' she added to ABC10. 'They are organizing to attack and kill us. We have to shut them down by any means necessary.' But now, she has become the target of anonymous threats one of which called for her to be fired or the children she teaches would be harmed. Berkeley police have since stepped up patrols around the school, NBC7 reports. In a statement, Berkeley Unified School District spokesman Mark Coplan said that the school learned a teacher was involved in the brawl on Monday. Felarca (above, wearing a bandage after being hurt in the clash) is an activist and says she supports the launch of a 'militant' movement to stop Nazis and the Klu Klux Klan Felarca, a teacher at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Berkeley, was seen screaming at one of the neo-Nazis to 'get the f*** off our streets' The teacher (left) was separated from the neo-Nazi man and told to move aside by police in riot gear 'One anonymous email in particular threatened that if certain actions were not taken against the teacher within the week, someone would come to King with the intent to harm students,' Coplan said. However, school is not currently in session and two summer camps that were being held on the campus have now moved elsewhere. Felarca said that she is on summer break from school and didn't ask permission from officials to attend the protest. She didn't clarify what she did at the protest but said she does a 'lot of demonstrating and I yell a lot of things.' Felarca blames the 'vile and racist' atmosphere permeating the county on the rise of Donald Trump and said that those who bash immigrants and spread hate must be stopped. She didn't clarify what happened but said she does 'lot of demonstrating and I yell a lot of things' The tiny woman was pushed aside by a police officer in riot gear during the clash in Sacramento She defended her stance on 'militant' action being taken to stop it, despite the American Civil Liberties stance that everyone should have the right to speak their mind. 'I am disgusted and condemn these attacks on myself and the children, the faculty and staff at my school,' she told Berkeleyside. 'I hold Donald Trump responsible for this. His politics of racist demagoguery and hate is inciting these vile threats of violence, even against children. 'It exposes why Trump and his racist, Nazi, and KKK supporters need to be defeated and it shows us what Donald Trump's vision for America really is, and why we need to keep building the movement.' The fight on Sunday broke out when about 30 members of the Traditionalist Worker Party gathering to rally around noon Sunday were met by about 400 counter-protesters, California Highway Patrol Officer George Granada said. As people tried to leave the area, smaller fights broke out, Granada said. Of the injured, two were taken to the hospital with critical stab wounds, but they were expected to survive, officials said. Felarca (above) has become the target of anonymous threats which call for her to be fired or the children she teaches may be harmed Police have stepped up patrols at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School (above) in Berkeley, California Police were investigating two assaults that happened outside the Capitol grounds, but no arrests have been made, the Sacramento Police Department said in a statement. The Capitol was on lockdown until protesters cleared the area. Videos from the melee posted on social media show mounted police officers dispersing a group of mostly young people, some with their faces covered, while some throw stones toward a man holding a stick and being shielded by police officers in riot gear. A KCRA-TV reporter and his cameraman were caught in an altercation with protesters who shouted 'no cameras' as they tried to grab their equipment and shove them away from the crowd. Sacramento Fire Department spokesman Chris Harvey said nine men and one woman, ranging from 19 to 58 years old, were treated for stab wounds, cuts, scrapes and bruises. 'There was a large number of people carrying sticks and rushing to either get into the melee or see what was going on,' Harvey said. Police were forced to use tear gas and pepper spray in order to disperse the demonstrators, reports said Police escort a wounded man away from in front of the Capitol in Sacramento, California, on Sunday Two injured men are seen sitting on the steps of the California State Capitol after members of right-wing extremists groups holding a rally outside the state Capitol building clashed with counter-protesters The victims were all present while the protest took place, said Sacramento Police spokesman Matt McPhail but he said it was still unclear whether and how they were involved. The Traditionalist Workers Party had scheduled and received a permit to protest for two hours in front of the Capitol. Law enforcement was aware of the counter-protest effort and police deployed more than 100 officers to the Capitol, McPhail said. The Southern Poverty Law Center has described TWP as a group formed in 2015 as the political wing of the Traditionalist Youth Network, which aims to 'indoctrinate high school and college students into white nationalism.' Matthew Heimbach, chairman of the Traditionalist Worker Party, told the Los Angeles Times that his group and the Golden State Skinheads organized the Sunday rally. Members of the ANTIFA Sacramento (Anti-Fascism Action) staged a counter-protest against the Traditionalist Worker's Party and the Golden State Skinheads A woman named Sophie protests after multiple people were stabbed during a clash between neo-Nazis holding a permitted rally and counter-protesters on Sunday Bloody bandages and protest signs lay on the lawn of the California State Capitol after the brawl Heimbach said that in the clash, one of their marchers had been stabbed in an artery and six of the counter-protesters had also been stabbed. Vice chairman Matt Parrott, who was not present at the Sacramento rally, blamed 'leftist radicals' for instigating the violence. A post recently uploaded to site of the Traditionalist Youth Network said TWP members planned to march in Sacramento to protest against globalization and in defense of their right to free expression. They said they expected to be outnumbered 10-to-1 by counter-protesters. 'We concluded that it was time to use this rally to make a statement about the precarious situation our race is in,' the Traditionalist Youth Network statement said. 'With our folk on the brink of becoming a disarmed, disengaged, and disenfranchised minority, the time to do something was yesterday!' The clash followed a confrontation in March between Ku Klux Klan members and counter-protesters in Anaheim, California in which three people were stabbed. Sunrise host Samantha Armytage and The Project presenter Waleed Aly both couldn't resist having a dig at Malcolm Turnbull after his stubborn refusal to make an appearance on their shows. Only days before Australians go to the polls on Saturday, Armytage let rip at the Prime Minister for his no show and demanded that he explain himself. The Sunrise host made it clear to viewers that he had rejected multiple invitations to be a guest on the show, and she had obviously had enough of his elusive behaviour. 'We should point out we have asked Prime Minister Turnbull to appear on this show throughout the later stages of this election campaign,' she said. 'His office always says 'No'. We ask every day. They decline every day.' After grilling Opposition Leader Bill Shorten on Wednesday night Aly told viewers he would like to do the same to Mr Turnbull - but he just hasn't been given the chance. 'We should point out that we have approached the Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, to be on this show - several times in fact. Malcolm, there's still a couple of days left. So your invitation: if you want to sit in this seat, it is there.' Samantha Armytage told Sunrise viewers Malcolm Turnbull had no intention of appearing on the show Armytage said the program had made numerous attempts to get him to appear but he ignored them After grilling Opposition Leader Bill Shorten On Wednesday night Aly told viewers he would like to get the chance to do the same to Mr Turnbull Armytage did clarify that they were not the only ones to get the cold shoulder from Mr Turnbull, claiming that other commercial networks 'are in the same boat'. She encouraged viewers of the program to express their own frustrations about the annoying scenario on the Sunrise Facebook page to force the Prime Minister to change his mind. 'So what do you think about the PM's apparent lack of interest in talking directly to you, our viewers. Let us know on our Facebook page,' she said. She then took the opportunity to send out one final invitation to him. 'Prime Minister the offer is still open,' she concluded. Officials representing charities say granting North Dakotas five American Indian tribes exclusive rights to host online gambling could effectively end charitable gambling in the state. The tribes want Gov. Doug Burgum to approve the idea under tribal-state agreements known as compacts. The current compacts expire at the end of this year and only Burgum can approve them. The tribes argue that their casinos have been hurt by the explosion of the charities Las Vegas-style pull tab machines. Burgum heard arguments from the charities and tribes on Friday. He says the terms of the compacts are still being negotiated and should be completed next month. A doctor claiming to have no political allegiance who appears in a television advertisement urging voters to 'put the Liberals last' has been a left-wing activist for 40 years. Dr Robert Marr from the Drummoyne Medical Centre in Sydney's inner-west features in the ACTU commissioned advertisement campaigning against changes to Medicare. 'I'm not in any political party, but I have been a family GP for over 40 years and I've seen how important Medicare is right since its introduction,' Dr Marr says. Scroll down for video Dr Robert Marr (pictured) from the Drummoyne Medical Centre in Sydney's inner-west features in a television advertisement urging voters to 'put the Liberals last'. He said he has no political allegiance but he has a 40-year history of left-wing campaigning 'But with the Turnbull government's health cuts deepening, it's getting harder to care for my patients.' Dr Marr warns that a re-elected Liberal government will cut health care funding and force GPs to scrap bulk-billing and charge patients more. 'I'm worried that some people won't come to the doctor any more because they simply won't be able to afford it. 'But we can make a difference. When you vote on July 2nd, save Medicare and please, put the Liberals last.' Dr Marr warns that a re-elected Liberal government will cut health care funding and force GPs to scrap bulk-billing and charge patients more. Above, flyers which were handed out across the country on Thursday 'I'm worried that some people won't come to the doctor any more because they simply won't be able to afford it,' Dr Marr said Although Dr Marr said he wasn't part of any political party, he has a 40-year history of left-wing campaigning, including lobbying against the Coalition at the 1993 federal election, according to News Corp. He also appeared with Bill Shorten in May promoting Labor's health policies. Dr Marr was unavailable for comment, but an ACTU spokesman told Daily Mail Australia that the GP was not simply 'a left-wing doctor' and he 'speaks up about issues that he cares about'. Dr Marr has also lobbied against previous Labor governments' proposed changes to Medicare, the spokesman said. Dr Marr was highly critical of Australia's involvement in the Iraq War and called for an investigation, flagging the possibility of referring former prime minister John Howard to the International Criminal Court. Speaking on behalf of The Medical Association for the Prevention of War in 2008, he said: 'We believe it is important that Australians not blame returning Australian soldiers for their involvement in the war but hold politicians like Mr Howard fully accountable for their decision to send Australian troops to the illegal war in Iraq.' 'But with the Turnbull government's health cuts deepening, it's getting harder to care for my patients,' Dr Marr said Dr Marr appeared with Bill Shorten (pictured) in May promoting Labor's health policies A survey has revealed the majority of Australians think that refugees who arrive by boat should be let in and allowed to resettle in Australia. The poll commissioned by The Australia Institute found that 63 per cent of people say refugees that arrive in Australia by boat should be allowed to resettle in the country, reported The Guardian. Between 23 May and 3 June 2016 the Australia Institute commissioned Research Now to do a national poll of 1,437 people on their attitudes towards the asylum seeker policy. Migrants from Sri Lanka are pictured on a boat off the coast of Banda Aceh bound for Australia in June 2016. A recent survey found the majority of Australians believe asylum seekers who arrive by boat should be allowed to resettle in Australia Between 23 May and 3 June 2016 the Australia Institute commissioned Research Now to do a national poll of 1,437 people on their attitudes towards the asylum seeker policy. Pictured is Manus Island When asked about processing and setline asylum seekers arriving by boat, only 27 per cent said they should be sent to Manus and Nauru, and not come to Australia under any circumstances. A total of 35 per cent said they should be processed at these offshore camps, but those found to be genuine refugees should be settled in Australia. A further 28 per cent said the processing should happen in Australia. The survey revealed that 66 per cent believe it should be legal for doctors to speak publicly about conditions in the camps and report and incidences of abuse to the police. The poll also asked whether Australia should 'accept or reject' New Zealands offer to resettle 150 refugees who are currently held on Nauru or Manus Island each year. While 20 per cent said the offer should be rejected, 61 per cent of people said Australia should accept New Zealand's offer, made up of 58 per cent of Coalition voters and 62 per cent of Labor voters. Asylum seekers are pictured behind a fence at the Oscar compound in the Manus Island detention centre, Papua New Guinea. 35 per cent of people surveyed said asylum seekers should be processed at offshore camps, but those found to be genuine refugees should be settled in Australia Only 27 per cent of people surveyed said asylum seekers arriving by boat should be sent to Manus (pictured) and Nauru, and not come to Australia under any circumstances Australia's current government policy of offshore processing and regional resettlement states that no refugee who arrives by boat will ever be settled in Australia. The Labor Party has said it has the same asylum policies as the Coalition. Nauru has refused to permanently resettle any refugees, and attempts to resettle refugees on Papua New Guinea have almost all failed. Australias Cambodia Solution, worth $55 million, has resulted in only one person moving and staying there. The survey also revealed that 66 per cent believe it should be legal for doctors to speak publicly about conditions in the camps and report and incidences of abuse to the police. Pictured is Nauru 61 per cent of people said Australia should accept New Zealand's offer to resettle 150 refugees who are currently held on Nauru or Manus Island each year Executive director of The Australia Institute, Ben Oquist, told The Guardian the results showed a 'real disconnect' between the governments policy and public expectations. 'The vast bulk of political discourse from the major parties on this issue has been broad tough on border security rhetoric,' Mr Oquist said 'And while that tone may be perceived to be popular, the actual details of the policy do not appear to have public support.' Tim OConnor from the Refugee Council of Australia told The Guardian the two major parties were in 'lockstep' over sending asylum seekers to offshore detention. 'Australians are rightfully worried that thousands of people are suffering intolerably and interminably in our detention camps,' he said. 'Neither major party has a plan to resolve this crisis of their own making.' Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull previously said Opposition Leader Bill Shorten did not 'have the willpower' to maintain a deterrence policy on refugees arriving by boat. Mr Shorten said Labors policy was identical to the Coalitions, and that they would maintain boat turnbacks and offshore processing. Immigration Minister Peter Dutton's 'illiterate refugee' comments have come back to haunt him in a series of anti-Liberal print advertisements published in non-English language newspapers. The Construction Forestry Mining Energy Union (CFMEU) have created multi-lingual versions of an ad that reads: 'This is what the Turnbull Liberals think of us'. It features Mr Dutton and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, and a snippet of the Queensland MP's now infamous quotes lay at the bottom. The Construction Forestry Mining Energy Union (CFMEU) have created multi-lingual versions of an ad that reads: 'This is what the Turnbull Liberals think of us'. Above is the English version 'They won't be numerate or literate in their own language, let alone English... these people would be taking Australian jobs, there's no question about that,' the ad quotes Mr Dutton from May this year. The ads have been published by seven different language papers including Chinese, Vietnamese and Italian. 'Peter Dutton's appalling comments about people who migrated here are an attack on us all,' CFMEU national secretary Michael O'Connor told Daily Mail Australia. 'We don't shy away from speaking up for our members when their rights and safety are threatened by the Turnbull Liberal Government, and we will do the same when it attacks them because of their background.' The ads have been published by seven different language papers including Chinese and Italian (above) This is a version of the ad in Vietnamese. When asked for a response about the attack ads, Mr Dutton's spokeswoman said: 'We wouldn't dignify it with a response, particularly given it was the CFMEU who opposed a trade deal with China.' Mr Dutton's controversial comments made in May landed him in hot water but Mr Turnbull continued to support him. At the time, Opposition Labor Party leader Bill Shorten labelled Mr Dutton's remarks as 'xenophobic'. Even Today show host Karl Stefanovic waded into the debate and went as far as saying the minister's comments were 'un-Australian'. 'Regardless of politics there was something about Peter Dutton's comments yesterday that did not sit well with many Australians including myself,' he said. Stefanovic, who is of Serbian heritage, turned to his grandparents Dragic 'Steve' Stefanovic and Elizabeth Henze who arrived after the Second World War as an example of the good refugees could do. It features Mr Dutton (pictured) and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, and a snippet of the Queensland MP's now infamous quotes lay at the bottom 'My grandparents were the same they spent a year in an immigration camp in Wollongong,' he said. '[My grandfather] got a job working the coal for BHP, stayed there for 30 years. 'They built a house with their own hands in Bellambi and built a life for their grandchildren to enjoy.' The breakfast show presenter said the country was built on 'so many pillars including those who come from far away lands with not much more than hope and a drive for a better life for their families'. Earlier this year, Mr Dutton said unemployment would rise dramatically if Australia opened its door to 'illiterate and innumerate' refugees. Punches were thrown, hair was pulled and furniture was flung when a massive brawl broke out in a Mexican restaurant after an argument over chips and salsa. A fight erupted at the El Paisano Mexican Restaurant in Dallas, Texas, at around 2.30am on Saturday, according to Eater.com. Isael Rojas filmed the clash between customers at the restaurant and posted the whole thing on Facebook. The fight broke out at the El Paisano Mexican Restaurant in Dallas, Texas, at around 2.30am on Saturday The five-minute clip quickly went viral, amassing more than 1.7million views and more than 30,000 shares since. A number of men and women got involved in the fight, and many of the restaurant's chairs ended up being thrown about. The fight appeared to have cleared the establishment and the brawlers themselves soon left. No arrests were made, according to Eater. Rojas says the confrontation began over a basket of chips costing $5 and a choice of red and green salsa. 'All because chips were $5 and they wanted the green salsa instead of the red,' he wrote on Facebook. A five-minute video of the massive brawl went viral and has amassed 1.7million views on Facebook North Korea's parliament has awarded leader Kim Jong Un a new post - adding to a long list of titles for the young leader. Kim was made chairman of the State Affairs Commission, a new body established under a revised constitution adopted by the parliament and which replaces the powerful National Defence Commission, state media reported on Thursday. His full title is now the Dear Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army. North Korea's parliament has awarded leader Kim Jong Un a new post - adding to a long list of titles for the young leader. Kim was made chairman of the State Affairs Commission, a new body established under a revised constitution adopted by the parliament which replaces the powerful National Defence Commission His full title is now the Dear Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army Kim, believed to be in his early 30s, attended the assembly meeting on Wednesday. As well as his new position, he also holds the rank of marshal in the North Korean military, and is more usually referred to as 'our marshal' in propaganda and common parlance. The parliament meets once or twice a year to formally approve budgets or policies set out by the ruling Workers' Party, which has increased in prominence under Kim. Kim, believed to be in his early 30s, attended the assembly meeting on Wednesday. As well as his new position, he also holds the rank of marshal in the North Korean military, and is more usually referred to as 'our marshal' in propaganda and common parlance The assembly also has the authority to grant Kim new titles or positions within North Korea's opaque leadership structure. Kim's father, Kim Jong Il, used the National Defence Commission to project authority under his rule, which was marked by famine and a 'military-first' policy of priority spending on North Korean military development. The new State Affairs Commission appears to be made up of cadres with civilian positions, according to a list of new appointments released by state media. The parliament meets once or twice a year to formally approve budgets or policies set out by the ruling Workers' Party, which has increased in prominence under Kim. The assembly also has the authority to grant Kim new titles or positions within North Korea's opaque leadership structure Wednesday's meeting was called to implement policy aims stated in a rare Workers' Party congress in May, during which Kim Jong Un announced a five-year economic plan Wednesday's meeting was called to implement policy aims stated in a rare Workers' Party congress in May, during which Kim Jong Un announced a five-year economic plan. On June 22, North Korea launched two Musudan intermediate-range missiles, drawing strong condemnation from South Korea, Japan and the United States for infringing UN sanctions designed to stop Pyongyang's nuclear and missile development programmes. Advertisement The ocean off the coast of a popular seaside destination in mainland China has been blanketed with green seaweed turning the water from crystal clear to thick and murky. Other-worldly images of the algal bloom at Qingdao, in eastern Shandong province, show sanitation workers shovelling the large scale Ulva Prolifera infestation which has been turning the once golden beaches into verdant meadows since the first outbreak in 2008. Citizen's fishing in the thick green sea and foraging for oyster along the rocky coast are some of the images which can be seen in the 12 part series although the 'green tide' makes this difficult due to the risk of asphyxiation marine life face due to the emerald green plant life. A man is seen attempting to fish (pictured) in the thick emerald green seaweed which has draped the coast of Qingdao in the Shandong Province of China, the eleventh most sought after tourist destination in the country The 'green tide' usually washes in from the Yellow Sea between June to July each year and has been photographed on Wednesday June 29 and covered a distance of about 58,000 hectares (pictured) Waves of thick green sludge (pictured) washed into the once golden beaches which have since been turned into verdant meadows of green algal bloom Ariel views of the ocean show a blanket of emerald green being shovelled by workers into hessian sacks and bulldozed from the beaches. Pictures taken on Wednesday June 29 showed the tide which usually washes in from the Yellow Sea between June to July each year covering a distance of about 58,000 hectares. While the algae appears harmless to humans, marine life is at risk of asphyxiation as the green sludge sucks up oxygen from the water. Many theories blame the phenomenon on climate change and industrial pollution both of which contribute to warm sea temperatures that help cultivate the algae's rapid growth. Many theories blame the phenomenon on climate change and industrial pollution both of which contribute to warm sea temperatures that help cultivate the algae's rapid growth to such a grand scale (pictured) While the algae appears harmless to humans, marine life is at risk of asphyxiation as the green sludge sucks up oxygen from the water and a rotten smell emits from decomposing seaweed (pictured) The 12 part series show a woman foraging for oysters along the rocky coast which is covered in the Ulva Prolifera which is also known as Hutai in Mandarin (pictured) But as the tourist city struggles with yet another year of the bloom scientists have blamed the expansion of edible seaweed farming along the coast as an alternative explanation to the outbreak. A study from 2013 the journal Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, concluded the algae originates from the Jiangsu coast before being swept north towards Qingdao. Scientists from the Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research cited satellite images and field observations as the basis for the theory. Scientist's believe the algae grow on the rafts used by the Jiangsu seaweed farmers and when the seaweed is harvested the Ulva Prolifera, Hutai in Mandarin, is removed from the rafts and discarded to be swept away by the waves in the sea. Sanitation workers shovelled the massive amounts of seaweed from the coastline which were likely transported to be turned into animal feed, fertiliser and a medicinal supplement known as hutai sugar, thought to lower blood sugar Sanitation workers (pictured) would shovel the emerald green moss into hessian bags to help clear the beaches at the populat seaside destination The algae (pictured) first hit in 2008, weeks before Qingdao was in the international spotlight as the host of the sailing events for the Beijing Olympics and again in 2013 covering more than 75,000 hectares, double the amount in 2008 Rapid growth rates and a high capacity of nutrients in the ocean help with growth hitting one million tonnes in only two months. Another study showed that the 2008 algae outbreak was caused by a sudden surge in the levels of nutrients such as phosphate and nitrogen in the seawater. The algae first hit in 2008, weeks before Qingdao was in the international spotlight as the host of the sailing events for the Beijing Olympics and again in 2013 covering more than 75,000 hectares, double the amount in 2008. More than 10,000 volunteers and 1,000 soldiers cleared the 20,000 tonnes of slime out of the sea three years ago which was then taken to a processing depot where it was dried and turned into animal feed, fertiliser and a medicinal supplement known as hutai sugar, thought to lower blood sugar. More than 10,000 volunteers and 1,000 soldiers cleared the 20,000 tonnes of slime out of the sea three years ago which was taken to processing depots much like the sanitation workers seen on Wednesday (pictured) Scientist's believe the algae grow on the rafts used by the Jiangsu seaweed farmers and when the seaweed is harvested the Ulva Prolifera, Hutai in Mandarin, is removed from the rafts and discarded to be swept away by the waves in the sea Vintage wine worth $5 million has disappeared from a collection after it was handed to receivers when a wine empire collapsed. Among the missing wines, believed to have been stolen, are bottles of prestigious Australian wines like Penfolds Grange, varieties of Henschke, Torbreck, and Chris Ringland/Three Rivers. A New South Wales Police State Crime Command spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia the missing stock included wines like a Penfolds Grange 1951, which is listed online for as much at $60,000 - sometimes more. Others like a Penfolds Grange 1998 Magnum, worth about $2000, various other Penfolds Grange vintages, and numerous vintages of Henschke Hill of Graces wines and various Torbreck wines like The Descendant and Runrig. Dozens of wine collections worth an estimated $5 million have been stolen from the Hunter Valley Bottles of Penfolds Grange, Torbreck and Henschke are among those that have been stolen The bottles were being held by Wine Investment Services Pty Ltd, which belong to David James, from the Hunter Valley (pictured) where some of the wine was stored The exact number of bottles missing is unclear, but it is thought to be in the thousands. The stock, made up by private collections owned by up to 300 people, was held in agreement by Wine Investment Services Pty Ltd. It belonged to James Estate Wines head David James, from the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, the Newcastle Herald reported, and went into receivership when his empire fell to pieces in 2013. Receivers McGrathNicol said at the time the wine was being stored at facilities in the Hunter and in Sydney. But at some point, $5m worth of wine disappeared, and despite repeated inquiries by owners, liquidators and local police, it was not located. Anyone who has purchased vintage or collectible wines in the NSW region recently is urged to contact police On Thursday morning, police said in 2013 the business assets were seized, however, inquiries revealed a number of wine collections were not surrendered. 'Despite numerous further inquiries by owners, liquidators and local police, the wine was not located,' a spokesman said. Liquidators did manage to recover some money during two auctions in 2015 when wine they had managed to retrieve was sold. Police now believe it may have been stolen and are appealing to anyone who may have purchased, or have been approached to purchase, collectible or vintage wines, including those once held in the collection. Strike Force Farrington was set up to find the wine in March. Detectives searched a storage unit in Newcastle later that month but the wine was not found. 'As investigations continue, detectives are appealing for assistance from the public to locate the wine collections.' The missing, believed stolen wines came from prestigious Australian wineries (stock image) Fire investigators said lightning is the suspected cause of a fire that broke out on Tuesday and consumed a Vermont lakefront home belonging to the CEO of the state's largest electric utility. The blaze at the South Hero home of Green Mountain Power President and CEO Mary Powell and her husband Mark Brooks was reported around 7pm when strong thunderstorms moved through the area. Fire officials said the family was not home when the fire erupted and the cause of the fire is still under investigation, according to WCAX. Scroll down for video Fire investigators say lightning is the suspected cause of a fire that broke out on Tuesday and consumed a Vermont lakefront home (pictured) belonging to the CEO of the state's largest electric utility. Photo courtesy of Gregory Lamoureux Flames engulf the home of Green Mountain Power CEO Mary Powell and Mark Brooks on Sweeney Farm Road in South Hero, Vermont on Tuesday night No human fatalities or injuries were reported, however four family pets - two dogs and two cats - died in the fire. In a text message to the Burlington Free Press, Powell said the aftermath of the fire was 'rough.' Mike Bishop of the South Hero Fire Department said some rescue workers were treated for minor injuries and that the flames were contained in about 30 minutes. Footage from the scene showed thick black clouds of smoke billowing from the two-story home located off Sweeney Farm Road, which was recently assessed at $1,724,700, the Burlington Free Press reported. The blaze at the South Hero home of Green Mountain Power President and CEO Mary Powell (left) and her husband Mark Brooks (right) was reported around 7pm when strong thunderstorms moved through the area Footage from the fire showed thick dark clouds of smoke billowing from the home. Fire officials said the family was not home when the fire erupted and the cause of the fire is still under investigation During the fire, neighbors reportedly gathered at a safe distance as they offered support to the family as well as firefighters. As fire crews from several agencies responded to the blaze, they had some trouble reaching the property because of the rural nature of the roads leading to the home. Unfortunately for Powell and her husband, they previously lost a house to fire, according to the Burlington Free Press. Powell has served as head of Green Mountain Power since 2008, and was previously in the role as the corporation's chief operating officer for seven years, according to the company's website. As fire crews from several agencies responded to the blaze, they had some trouble reaching the property because of the rural nature of the roads leading to the home Mike Bishop of the South Hero Fire Department said some rescue workers were treated for minor injuries and that the flames were contained in about 30 minutes Thanks to her efforts in launching an 'ambitious energy vision to provide low carbon' and 'reliable power to Vermonters,' the company has subsequently built the state's largest wind farm. The company said it has also made Rutland the 'solar generation capital of New England,' installing smart-grid technology across the entire utility infrastructure. Photographs have emerged of the lavish weekend wedding of Gina Rinehart's daughter at exclusive resort Qualia on Hamilton Island. Ginia Rinehart, the mining billionaire's youngest child, and partner Simon Robinson tied the knot at an extravagant ceremony in the Whitsundays at the weekend. Pictures shared by friends show the new Mr and Mrs Robinson gazing at each other during one of their first dances as a married couple and smiling with friends. Guests began gathering at the luxurious resort off the coast of Queensland last week. The celebration itself was held at the weekend, with the walls of the reception hall covered in flowers and a band playing on stage as the happy couple and guests danced the night away. There was even a synchronised swimming performance at one point in the evening. Scroll down for video 'Mr and Mrs Robinson': Ginia Rinehart and her new husband enjoy one of their first dances as a married couple Ms Rinehart smiles with a friend in a candid photograph snapped during the celebrations at the weekend Mrs Rinehart is pictured on left at an awards ceremony in May. Her and daughter Ginia are pictured on right Following the ceremony, the groom's father, Ted Robinson, told The Sunshine Coast Daily: 'It was a wonderful wedding and they are very happy together'. 'They (the Rineharts) are the nicest people you could ever meet and they have made us wonderfully welcome'. He was quoted telling the paper his son, Simon, was never Ms Rinehart's bodyguard - as has long been reported. Many of Ms Rinehart's closest friends and family took to social media to celebrate the occasion, several flying in especially from overseas. 'Thank you for the most beautiful few days in Paradise (Ginny) & Simon,' one friend said, following the enjoyable weekend. 'Wishing you and Simon the most beautiful future together. You guys look so in love. So wonderful to see!!' High-backed seats, walls of flowers and a candle-lit table - the lavish set up for the luxurious nuptials Pictured from top right: The groom appears to pick up his new bride, the new couple stand in front of their wedding cake, a lavish dining table and the couple's friends at the ceremony Another added: 'My face still hurts from laughing and my feet so sore from dancing!' Hamilton Island pool towels were provided featuring the words 'Ginia and Simon' written in cursive font, and the apparent date of the ceremony, June 25. Another guest showed off a straw hat with the words 'happily ever after' branded across it. Mining billionaire Mrs Rinehart - estimated to be worth $6 billion - is thought to be close to her daughter and was all smiles at the ceremony. It wasn't clear which other members of the West Australian clan, including Ms Rinehart's siblings John, Bianca and Hope, were present. The family's internal feuds have been the subject of legal proceedings in recent years. Friends showed off their designer gowns, strutting around on grass where petals abounded Guests pose at the wedding in front of a veritable wall of cream-coloured flowers Poolside fun: Friends posted pictures of towels featuring the words 'Ginia & Simon' at the weekend Another friend posted a picture of a 'Happily Ever After' straw hat from a resort beach Mrs Rinehart (left, last year) attended the weekend wedding of her youngest daughter Ginia (right, in 2014) Earlier on Thursday, a picture emerged of Mrs Rinehart, the Hancock Prospecting, mining magnate, looking slim and happy with short cropped hair at a Melbourne function a month ago. A cosmetic physician told Woman's Day the businesswoman appeared to have shed between 35 and 40 per cent of her weight in recent years. The recent photo was taken as Mrs Rinehart accepted an award from the Railway Technical Society of Australasia for her Roy Hill mine's new 'high tech railway'. The tonnage of rail steel and sleepers for the railway - at 344km long - is touted by her company as equivalent to '100 Sydney Harbour Bridges'. An excited fan who encountered Mrs Rinehart at the May 18 event captioned a photo: 'With Gina Rinehart. 'I can feel the power & respect! #GinaRinehart #mining #rail #core16 #respect #power #wealth #strength'. A U.S.-led coalition aircraft waged a series of deadly strikes against Islamic State around the city of Fallujah in Iraq on Wednesday, killing at least 250 ISIS fighters. The strikes, which took place south of the city, where civilians have also been displaced, are just the latest battlefield setback suffered by the terror group in its self-proclaimed 'caliphate' of Iraq and Syria. One U.S. official cited a preliminary estimate of at least 250 suspected fighters killed and at least 40 vehicles destroyed, Reuters reports. If the figures are confirmed, the strikes would be among the most deadly ever against the jihadist group. Scroll down for video A U.S.-led coalition aircraft waged a series of deadly strikes against Islamic State around the city of Fallujah in Iraq on Wednesday, killing at least 250 ISIS fighters The strikes, which took place south of the city, where civilians have also been displaced, are just the latest battlefield setback suffered by the terror group However, the group's territorial losses are not diminishing concerns about its intent and ability to strike abroad though. The strikes came less than 24 hours after a triple suicide bombing at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul. Turkey pointed the finger at Islamic State on Wednesday for the attack that left 42 dead and wounded hundreds more. Although no-one has claimed responsibility for the attack, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said 'the evidence points to 'Daesh', using another name for IS. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that his country which has long been accused of complacency towards ISIS will overcome the terror group as well as Kurdish rebels. Speaking at an iftar, a meal to break the fast during the month of Ramadan, on Wednesday evening, Erdogan said the terror groups were aiming to impede Turkey's ambitions, such as becoming one of the world's 10 strongest economies and building the world's largest airport. Iraqi troops inspected the ISIS convoy destroyed by US-led airstrikes killing some 250 terrorists The convoy of fleeing terrorists was strafed from the air as it attempted to flee Fallujah ISIS has been fleeing Fallujah after the Iraqi army began a major offensive to retake the important city The ISIS convoy was devastated by the overwhelming firepower on display by the US military One U.S. official cited a preliminary estimate of at least 250 suspected fighters killed and at least 40 vehicles destroyed If the figures are confirmed, the strikes would be among the most deadly ever against the jihadist group The strikes came less than 24 hours after a triple suicide bombing at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul. Turkey pointed the finger at Islamic State Referring in turn to the Kurdish rebels, an outlawed leftist militant group and the Islamic State group, he said: 'Neither the PKK, the DHKP-C, nor Daesh... will succeed in deterring Turkey from its goals.' He said the attackers 'have prepared their place in hell' and thanked the world leaders, including President Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin, for calling to offer their condolences. CIA chief John Brennan told a forum in Washington that the Istanbul attack bore the hallmarks of Islamic State 'depravity.' He acknowledged there was a long road ahead battling the group, particularly its ability to incite attacks. 'We've made, I think, some significant progress, along with our coalition partners, in Syria and Iraq, where most of the ISIS members are resident right now,' Brennan said. 'But ISIS' ability to continue to propagate its narrative, as well as to incite and carry out these attacks -- I think we still have a ways to go before we're able to say that we have made some significant progress against them.' Iraqi security forces pose for pictures as they celebrate their victory in Fallujah, Iraq, on Tuesday Iraqi forces (above, on patrol in the city) declared Sunday they had fully liberated Fallujah from the Sunni-led extremist group that took over the city more than two years ago Earlier this month, Brennan told Congress that the United States' battle against ISIS has not stopped their global reach. He said the group is expected to plot more attacks against the Western world and encourage lone wolves to carry out massacres. On the battlefield, the U.S.-led campaign against Islamic State has moved up a gear in recent weeks, with the government declaring victory over the group in Fallujah. On Sunday, Iraqi forces declared they had fully liberated Fallujah from the Sunni-led extremist group that took over the city more than two years ago. An alliance of militias have also launched a major offensive against the militant group in the city of Manbij in northern Syria. Still, in a reminder of the back-and-forth nature of the war, U.S.-backed Syrian rebels were pushed back from the outskirts of an Islamic State-held town on the border with Iraq and a nearby air base on Wednesday after the jihadists mounted a counter- attack, two rebel sources said. Another headline against the proposed new refinery for western North Dakota. I admit I do not read the articles or letters anymore because they make absolutely no sense to me. We have someone complaining about a new facility going up in the heart of the North Dakota oilfields. Where else would it make any sense to build? I suppose their main concern is that it is too close to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. I understand that it could be seen from several hilltops inside the park or that it may affect the air quality. Lets just take a good look at their complaints. First of all, they drive their brightly-colored carbon-spewing vehicle made mostly from oil byproducts into the park. They drive on the largest oil spill in the country, just because it is called asphalt does not make it anything more than it actually is, oil. In the process of spreading this on nature's face they put oil on the ground that isnt asphalt based, burn countless amounts of fuel heating the asphalt to make it manageable and use thousands of gallons of fuel to put it in place. The man-made enclosures along the way, the signs every few hundred feet, and the fence around it all to prevent the so-called wild animals from roaming free as nature intended, natural or not? Tell me why another distant man-made structure that can only be seen from a few select points takes away from a park that is already obviously not natural is relevant. Tell me why we should find a not very well thought-out complaint interesting. Then tell me why you and your needs as a human being are not part of nature, or is it just my needs that offend you. A man has been arrested after the suspicious death of a six-month-old boy in Melbourne. The boy's mother called emergency services to a Glenroy unit in the city's north on Sunday night when they found the baby unresponsive. He died days later in Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital. Scroll down for video Police arrested Dwayne Lindsey, 33, in Sunshine North and he is being questioned by police after the death of a six-month-old boy in Melbourne Police arrested Dwayne Lindsey, 33, in Sunshine North, west of Melbourne, and he is being questioned by police. Lindsey, a friend of the boy's mother, was taken into custody after police launched a manhunt to track him down. Emergency services were called to an Isla Avenue unit in Glenroy, north of Melbourne, 'in relation to an unresponsive child' about 8.40am on Sunday. Police said the mother of the boy was distraught over his death. 'She's as you'd expect, devastated by what's occurred,' Detective Senior Sergeant Shane O'Connell said. 'It's a very tragic set of circumstances and we're assisting her with the support that we can.' Japanese prosecutors have charged a US military contractor with the murder and rape of a 20-year-old woman on Okinawa. Local authorities said Kenneth Shinzato, 32, a former Marine, now faces the murder and rape charges in addition to an earlier charge of abandoning the victim's body. The woman, Rina Shimabukuro, 20, was found dead in a forest last month, three weeks after she had disappeared while taking a walk. Scroll down for video Japanese prosecutors charged U.S. military contractor Kenneth Shinzato, Thursday with the murder and rape of a 20-year-old woman on Okinawa. Pictured: officials escort Shinzata to the prosecutor's office on May 20 Local authorities said Kenneth Shinzato, 32, left, a former Marine, now faces the murder and rape charges in addition to an earlier charge of abandoning the body of Rina Shimabukuro, 20, right Dead: Rina Shimabukuro (pictured), 20, disappeared on the island of Okinawa, Japan, on April 28. Her body was found when Kenneth Shinzato, 32, a civilian worker at Kadena Air Base, gave police a location Shinzato, who was known as Kenneth Gadson before he took his Japanese wife's last name, allegedly told investigators he drove around looking for a victim Shimabukuro, a 20-year-old office worker from the city of Uruma, was beaten with a club and stuffed in a car before she was raped and murdered on April 28, allegedly by Shinzato, the Japan Times reported. Shinzato allegedly told investigators he drove around looking for a potential rape victim, the Times reported. He became a suspect after being spotted on surveillance footage buying salt and sprinkling it on his car, apparently in an attempt to get rid of blood stains, the Times reported. Shinzato led investigator's to the location of the victim's body after he was questioned. Shinzato is reportedly originally from New York. He joined the U.S. Marines and was deployed to Okinawa, where he met and married a Japanese woman. He who was known as Kenneth Gadson before he took his Japanese wife's last name, The case has sparked outrage on Okinawa, where residents have long complained about its heavy U.S. military presence and crime linked to them. The subsequent arrest and indictment of a U.S. sailor for alleged drunken driving has added to the anger. Okinawa has been stuck with a contentious plan to relocate a Marine Corps air station to a less-populated part of the island. The plan developed after the 1995 rape of a girl by three American servicemen enraged Okinawans, but has made little progress for 20 years due to local protests. Critics want the air station completely removed from the island. The case has sparked outrage on Okinawa, where residents have long complained about its heavy U.S. military presence and crime linked to them. Pictured, protests on June 19 Okinawa Prefecture Police investigate the site where the body of missing Rina Shimabukuro was found a day after U.S military base worker Kenneth Shinzato was arrested on May 20 U.S. installations take up about 18 percent of land on the island, which houses about half of the 50,000 American troops stationed in Japan under a bilateral security agreement. Tensions were already high after a U.S. seaman, Justin Castellanos, 24, was arrested on suspicion of raping a Japanese tourist to Okinawa in March. The U.S. military says the crime rate among its ranks in Japan is lower than among the general public. A 73-year-old Australian woman has been sentenced to death by a Vietnamese court for trafficking heroin hidden in bars of soap. Nguyen Thi Huong, who was born in Vietnam but is an Australian citizen, was arrested two years ago trying to board a flight to Australia with 2.8kg of heroin stuffed into 36 bars of soap. She was found guilty on Wednesday by the Ho Chi Minh City People's Court, according to several state-run media outlets. Australian citizen Nguyen Thi Huong, 73, was sentenced to death in a Vietnamese court on Wednesday after being found guilty of trying to board a flight with 2.8kg of heroin hidden in bars of soap Huong said she was given the soap as a gift by a woman, identified only as Helen, while they were on a trip to the coastal city of Vung Tau, the Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper and news portal tuoitrenews.vn reported. Huong told the court she wanted to take them to Australia as gifts and was not aware of what they contained. But the Ho Chi Minh City Police newspaper, which is controlled by the city's police, said Huong had failed to prove that the other woman was real. Court officials and Australian diplomats in the city could not be reached for comment about the case. The court ruled that the offence was 'extremely dangerous to the community' and found her guilty. The 73-year-old was arrested two years ago trying to board a flight to Australia with 2.8kg of heroin stuffed into 36 bars of soap (file photo) Huong said she was given the soap as a gift by a woman, identified only as Helen, while they were on a trip to the coastal city of Vung Tau (file photo) She now faces death by lethal injection. The Tuoi Tre newspaper published a photo of Huong covering her mouth with her hands as she was taken from the court after the verdict. Huong has 15 days to appeal against the death sentence. The Australian government expressed concern over the case and reiterated its opposition to capital punishment. 'We are concerned that an Australian citizen has been sentenced to death in Vietnam,' the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said. 'We will continue to provide consular assistance and support to the woman and her family.' The death penalty is applied in communist Vietnam in cases of trafficking of 100 grams of heroin or more. In late 2013, Vietnam adopted the use of lethal injections for capital cases instead of firing squads. David Cameron's aides believed George Osborne's dire economic warnings were damaging the Remain campaign and he had to be 'restrained several times', it was claimed today. A No 10 source has said that the Chancellor's reputation was 'often a hindrance' because his doom-laden predictions were not often believed by the public. The source also revealed the Prime Minister felt betrayed by Michael Gove, who apparently told Mr Cameron: 'I won't be actively involved' before the campaign before becoming a Brexit figurehead. Clash: David Cameron's closest aides are said to have 'restrained' George Osborne several times because of his dire economic warnings post-Brexit The Times has published excerpts from the updated edition of Cameron at 10 by Anthony Seldon and Peter Snowdon. On George Osborne a Cameron aide told them: 'He had to be restrained several times. This wasn't a general election and it required diplomacy and subtlety'. The book also reveals that the Prime Minister had a 40-minute meeting with Boris Johnson to convince him to back Remain, even offering him any cabinet post he wanted. But the source said: 'It wasn't difficult to work it out. Boris made an amoral calculation about what was in it for him. 'If he led the Out campaign, and it won, he would be in pole position; if he led it and the vote was lost, he would still be a hero.' Mr Cameron was left distraught by Mr Gove's decision to back Remain, according to the book, because his old friend had apparently promised not to take a frontline role in the campaign. The book also describes the relationship between the PM and Jeremy Corbyn as 'bloody awful', saying: 'Days were left open for Labour to step up - and it didn't happen. Either Corbyn's office were incompetent or malign, but they were not helpful.' Today, the two big beasts in the battle to win the Tory crown Theresa May and Boris Johnson will officially launch their campaigns. Mrs May will pledge there can be no turning back on Brexit and the wishes of the British public must be implemented in full, including curbs on migrants. She will appoint a Eurosceptic MP as a Cabinet Minister for Brexit. Mrs May and Mr Johnson who will run on the slogan Back Boris 2016 - are preparing for a nine-week duel to the bitter end. Yesterday, the Home Secretary refused to cut any deal with heir fierce rival. George Osborne has been forced to bow out - a year after he was favourite to succeed Mr Cameron - because the referendum campaign caused him so much damage. Upset: The PM is said to have felt betrayed by his old friend Michael Gove and suggested Boris Johnson 'made an amoral calculation about what was in it for him' when backing Brexit Former Bank of England governor Mervyn King savaged Project Fear's scaremongering, of which Mr Osborne is said to have been the main architect. It came as George Osborne announced he would not bring forward an emergency Budget in response to last Thursday's historic vote. Former Bank chief Lord King said that, over the campaign, the Remain camp had treated those considering a Leave vote like 'idiots'. Lord King governor of the Bank for a decade said voters had not been impressed by scaremongering. 'This was the most dispiriting campaign I can recall in my lifetime,' he told the BBC. 'I think the Government has to take responsibility for setting the tone for that. 'I do think that they said things which were not easy to sustain or support. It's true there was a great deal of uncertainty about the outcome in economic terms. That would have been enough perhaps to have made their case. 'But it went way beyond that in making claims about the precise numbers that could be used to say how much our living standards might fall. 'We had all kinds of scare stories. I was travelling round the UK a lot at that time and I was struck by how many people said to me they didn't like the scaremongering tactics, they didn't like to be told that if they were to vote to leave they would be idiots. If you say to someone, 'You are an idiot if you don't agree with me,' you are not likely to bring them in your direction.' He said it was time for the Treasury to 'row back' on the doom-laden forecasts, adding: 'We have already seen in the space of this morning that there will not be an emergency Budget. A reclusive Sydney multi-millionaire couple donating their $200 million fortune to charity have revealed why they now shun the limelight after once being darlings of the social scene. Philanthropic duo Isaac and Susan Wakil from exclusive Vaucluse in the city's east are best known for their large property portfolio of rundown buildings - and they have pledged to gift all their money to charitable causes. A report in the Wentworth Courier revealed the husband and wife, who were married in 1954, made the decision two years ago to donate all their funds and have long refused all invitations to venture out. Susie and Isaac Wakil (pictured) were once the darlings of the society pages but now lead a reclusive life From concentration camp to A-list glamour: Susan Wakil (centre) and husband Isaac are both migrants - she had to flee war-torn Romania to end up a multi-millionaire charity fundraiser who wore Yves St Laurent couture to openings until the Wakils mysteriously dropped from sight two decades ago The abandoned Terminus Hotel in Pyrmont, inner-Sydney, has been carpeted in ivy since closing in 1985, and after the Wakils sold it to Auswin TWT group last year it is now back on the market for $10 million 'When Susan decided not to go out any more, I chose to stay at home with her,' Mr Wakil told the website. 'We do not accept any invitations. My work and business is set up from my house.' They were once the darlings of the society pages with Susie Wakil one of the few Australian women to wear French couture fashion which could cost as much as $20,000 for a single dress back in the 1990s. Mrs Wakil, who escaped war-torn Europe after her mother died in a Soviet concentration camp, wore the haute couture Yves St Laurent clothes bought for her by her Iraqi immigrant clothier husband, Isaac, to the lavish charity dinners she threw for Sydney's society ladies. Isaac Wakil, an Iraqi immigrant who entered the Sydney garment trade, was a property genius who bought up empty piles like the Griffith Teas building (pictured) which he and how wife Susie are now divesting themselves of and leaving their millions to worthy causes This squat warehouse in the inner city Sydney suburb of Pyrmont is just another example of unlikely real estate that Isaac and Susan Wakil cannily bought and now are selling off as the couple, who are in their 80s and have no children, are selling to create charity funding While the immaculately-dressed Mrs Wakil worked hard as a patron of the arts, her husband Isaac was quietly buying up property in Sydney's CBD and the inner city suburbs of Surry Hills and Pyrmont. Although the Wakils lived in the elite suburb of Bellevue Hill in Sydney's east, they often bought derelict old warehouses and properties including the landmark Griffiths Tea building. The couple accumulated a property portfolio estimated at close to $200 million in the current market. It is unclear whether the Terminus will ever see a beer poured again as buyers of the $10m building could convert it to a retail or office space Inside the abandoned Terminus Hotel, one of the properties acquired in the late 20th century by Susie and Isaac Wakil. It was sold as the elderly couple divested themselves of their property portfolio and up for sale again and set up charities 'because Australia has been good to us' Susan and Isaac Wakil quietly bought up abandoned inner city properties like the derelict Terminus hotel in Pyrmont While much of the property holdings were considered utilitarian and unattractive, the Wakil's property genius and ability to keep the buildings untenanted and undeveloped because of their wealth meant the buildings were highly valuable to developers. Some of the property has already been sold off, including the old workman's pub, the Terminus Hotel in Surry Hills, which has been abandoned since 1985. The Wakils sold the building to Auswin TWT group last year and it was reported that it was going to be restored and opened as a British-themed pub. Buildings in Sydney's CBD like 426 Kent Street (pictured) are part of the $200m property portfolio Susan and Isaac Wakil are gradually selling and creating funds such as the University of Sydney nursing school trust This abandoned corner shop at 74 Harris Street (pictured) is one of many properties in Sydney's inner city Pyrmont which the Wakils acquired over decades From the early 1900s the hotel, which was so named because it was next to the last stop on the tram-line, was crammed in the afternoons with thirsty sugar mill and power station workers. Once a Sydney institution, the building is now empty and dilapidated, with faded signs and vines engulfing the gutters and roof. But the building may never see another beer poured as Auswin TWT group have put it back on the market with hopes of about $10 million. The Wakils are gradually giving away the money they have gained from their property sales. The property magnates announced in a statement that the first recipients would be the University of Sydney nursing school, which would receive $10.8 million, the largest private donation to a school of its kind. Philanthropic duo Isaac and Susan Wakil from exclusive Vaucluse in the city's east are best known for their large property portfolio of rundown buildings like the Terminus (pictured) The property magnate couple Susan and Isaac Wakil, whose portfolio includes 82 Sussex Street, Sydney (pictured) are giving away their fortune including $10.8m to the University of Sydney nursing school, the largest private donation to a school of its kind The derelict street frontage of 82 Sussex Street, Sydney (above), just one of the many properties bought by Isaace and Susie Wakil, who was born in the Romanian province of Bessarabia in Eastern Europe in 1932, and at aged seven watched her father taken off to a Siberian gulag for being a capitalist land owner Mr Wakil said in a statement the donation was a gift to the nation that has 'treated them so well' and that the contribution that nurses made to society was often overlooked. 'Susan and I appreciate the valuable work of nurses in the front line of health care,' he said. The portfolio the Wakils are divesting and turning into charity donations includes up to 15 properties. The Griffiths Tea building on Wentworth Avenue,Surry Hills, sold last year for an undisclosed sum, and now has been sold off the plan as inner city apartments, with the penthouse selling for $4 million. A century-old warehouse in Harris Street, Pyrmont sold for $90 million. Another warehouse on the same street has sold for $22 million - the properties include a rare, empty block of land in Pyrmont, a decrepit old terrace house nearby and several multi-storey buildings in the city. The sale of property by the Wakils solves one piece of a mystery as to why the once high-flying Sydney couple largely disappeared from sight. The sale of property by the Wakils solves one piece of a mystery as to why the once high-flying Sydney couple largely disappeared from sight a few decades ago while they were buying up old buildings such as 12 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont (pictured) A small but rare slice of empty land close to Sydney's CBD at 69a Harris Street, Pyrmont, which is part of the Wakil porperty portfoili being sold up More than 30 years ago the Wakils were regular attendees of Opera House opening nights, arts events, and charity balls. Susie Wakil was well-known for her preference for beautiful haute couture, when even off-the-rack French labels were a rarity for most Australian women. She once disclosed how she had been born in the Romanian province of Bessarabia in Eastern Europe in 1932, and aged seven watched her father taken off to a Siberian gulag for being a capitalist land owner. Her mother died in a Soviet concentration camp and she escaped with an aunt to Australia, her father eventually fleeing Russia after his release and joining her here. A side view of the Terminus Hotel in Pyrmont which in the early 1900s was crammed in the afternoons with thirsty sugar mill and power station workers until it closed its doors in 1985 The Griffiths Teas building in central Sydney (pictured last century) has been refurbished and converted into upmarket warehouse style city apartments She married Isaac Wakil, an Iraqi emigre from Baghdad who became a clothing manufacturer in Sydney. The couple had no children and Mrs Wakil donated their time to charities such as the Black and White Committee and St Vincents Hospital, while Isaac Wakil worked in the garment trade and bought property. Then, sometime in the 1990s, they mysteriously vanished from the social scene and retreated into their own world. Reports said some of their friends did not even see them for years. Only the couple's cream Rolls-Royce could be seen parked in the driveway of the Harris Street, Pyrmont building which served as the headquarters of their property company, Citilease. A soldier shot during the Battle of the Somme was saved by a spoon and a bible he kept in his jacket pocket. Henry Cooper, from Manchester, was shot in the chest on the frontline but survived because the bullet struck the spoon and the bible before piercing his skin. The bullet punctured major organs, including his lung, and became lodged inside his body. Henry Cooper, from Manchester, was shot in the chest on the frontline but survived because the bullet struck the spoon (pictured right) and the bible before piercing his skin. Left, grandson Rod Cooper with the spoon The 20-year-old soldier was sent back to the UK and spent months recovering in hospital in Southampton. Mr Cooper suffered as a result of the wound in later life and died in the 1970s. The remarkable story has emerged on the eve of the centenary of the Somme offensive, which started on July 1, 1916. The first day of the battle remains the bloodiest in British military history. The silver spoon was passed down to Mr Cooper's grandson Rod Cooper, who carried it in his pocket while serving in Iraq in 1991. Father-of-one Rod, 54, from Paignton, Devon, said his mother gave him the keepsake as a token of good luck and asked him to keep it in his pocket, just as his grandfather had done. He said: 'I knew a few things about the spoon but as a kid I didn't take much interest if I'm honest. 'I kept it in my top pocket throughout the deployment. I took it on further tours later on. I'm not overly superstitious but it seemed harmless and like a good idea. The silver spoon was passed down to Mr Cooper's grandson Rod Cooper, who carried it in his pocket while serving in Iraq in 1991, pictured. Rod, 54, said his mother gave him the keepsake as a token of good luck The bullet hit the spoon, pictured, before puncturing Mr Cooper's organs and becoming lodged inside his body 'I didn't show it to many people really while on deployment. My troop and crew knew about it because they knew I didn't want to lose it.' Mr Cooper, now a locksmith, said neither his father nor his grandfather spoke of their wartime experiences. He is now being assisted by the Royal British Legion with searching for his grandfather's military records. Jailed: Albert Patterson (pictured) said he kept the 9mm pistol, taken from an Argentinian officer, to remind him of the 22 friends who died in the conflict - he could now be out in weeks A SAS hero who was jailed for keeping a souvenir gun could be out in August, it was revealed today. Paratrooper Albert Patterson was sentenced to 15 months in April for possession of a 9mm pistol a war trophy which was taken from an Argentine officer during the Falklands War. He said he had kept the weapon to remind him of 22 friends who died in the conflict - and his jail sentence led to former military top brass and politicians calling for him to be freed immediately. The decorated soldier will leave HMP Ranby in Nottinghamshire early because of his good behaviour - and the good news came after his appeal was dismissed by High Court judges. He told The Sun: 'I was looking forward to a pint of Guinness, but it hasn't happened. 'I remain incredibly appreciative of all the support I have received, worse things can happen, and I can see this through. 'I will be out on a tag in August, so the Guinness can wait until then.' Politicians said the war veteran had been treated like a 'common criminal' and called for him to be released. Major General Julian Thompson, who commanded 3 Commando Brigade during the Falklands War, called the sentencing in April 'nuts'. He said: 'If he was a gang member in London then bang him up, but he's not. He made a mistake and they should give him a suspended sentence, or even a fine. 'Prison, in my opinion, is out of proportion. He should be treated as someone who has been silly, not a criminal.' Cache: The former soldier had a 9mm self-loading pistol, five rounds of expanding ammunition, 177 rounds of 9mm ammunition, four Enfield pistols (file picture) and a self-loading rifle component. Patterson, 65, served for 22 years in the military, first in the Parachute Regiment and then in the SAS. Tory MP Johnny Mercer, a former army officer, said: 'I don't know the guy personally but it sounds for all intents and purposes that he was a good man with an exemplary military record. In this particular case, I wonder whether more of a common sense approach could have been applied.' Former Commando engineer Mike Hookem MEP has said the former paratrooper should not have been sent to prison and called for a review by the Ministry of Justice. Mr Hookem said Patterson 'should not be treated like some common criminal when his service record clearly highlights he is a man of talent and integrity'. He added: 'He is being treated like he is some gang member from a criminal underclass.' Major General Charles Heyman said the former soldier should be punished, but added: 'In light of his service, I think the sentence was excessive. The tragedy is he has to be made an example of, but to be given 15 months, it is an awful lot. He certainly should appeal.' Calling for his 'immediate' release, Colonel Richard Kemp, former commander of British forces in Afghanistan, said: 'An SAS hero who risked his life to defend our country shouldn't be treated like a south London drug dealer.' Judge Christopher Plunkett said he had seen Patterson's service record, but the legislation meant he would have to send the former soldier to prison. Sentencing him on Thursday, the judge told Hereford Crown Court: 'In the wrong hands these weapons could lead to the death of police officers or cause all sorts of mayhem. It is this risk that parliament is concerned about.' In April Judge Christopher Plunkett said that he had been privileged to see Patterson's service record in the SAS - but said he had to jail him Stephen Davies, prosecuting, said Patterson now lived in Thailand when not working overseas. Following a divorce from his wife his brother went round to his former home to collect his items. However, his ex-wife became suspicious of what the brother was up to after items of jewellery had previously gone missing. She contacted police and they carried out a full search, finding the illegal weapons, and Patterson was arrested in November 2014. He admitted possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol, five rounds of expanding ammunition, 177 rounds of 9mm ammunition, four Enfield pistols and a gas self-loading rifle component part. Scott Coughtrie, defending, pointed out that Patterson had an illustrious career. He said: 'He spent a great deal of time abroad protecting our country and our way of life. 'In his history he has dealt with the most sensitive and dangerous operations this country has had to bear. These weapons were never loaded or used in the UK and had never been in the public domain. 'He said he received said pistol as a trophy of war from the Falklands and the ammunition during his military service. 'When asked why he didn't hand them in he said he worked abroad for 15 of the last 20 years and wasn't back when there was an amnesty. They weren't hanging on the wall but were hidden.' A teenager has admitted plotting to run down and behead a police officer in a terror attack on Anzac Day. Sevdet Ramadan Besim and a 'person overseas' also allegedly discussed packing a kangaroo with explosives, painting it with an Islamic State symbol and setting it loose on police officers. The 19-year-old has been in custody since he was arrested along with two others during counter-terrorism raids in April last year. On Thursday he entered the last-minute plea ahead of his trial, which was due to start in the Victorian Supreme Court next month. Scroll down for video Sedvet Besim , 18, has admitted plotting to run down and behead a police officer on Anzac Day The Hallam teenager has pleaded guilty to one count of doing an act in preparation or planning for a terrorist act, an offence that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Besim was friends with 18-year-old Numan Haider, who was shot dead by officers after he slashed them with a knife outside a police station in 2014. The court heard Besim had been with Haider the day of his death. Besim is accused of planning to run over, then behead, a police officer. He allegedly said he was 'ready to fight these dogs on there (sic) doorstep' in online communications with a person overseas, according to court documents that were previously released to media. 'I'd love to take out some cops,' Besim is alleged to have said. 'I was gonna meet with them then take some heads ahaha.' The 19-year-old has been in custody since he was arrested along with two others during counter-terrorism raids in April last year (pictured) Sevdet Ramadan Besim also allegedly discussed packing a kangaroo with explosives, painting it with an Islamic State symbol and setting it loose on police officers Police say the pair, on a later occasion, also talked generally about Australian wildlife, with a suggestion that a kangaroo could be packed with explosives, painted with 'the IS symbol' and set loose on officers. While police did not go into details of the symbol, the image most closely linked to IS is the Black Banner or Standard. Documents before the court do not suggest the alleged kangaroo discussion was linked to Anzac Day, or any other target. Besim has been in custody since April 18 last year when 200 heavily armed officers swooped on the city's southeast, arresting five teens and seizing knives and swords. On Thursday he entered the last-minute plea ahead of his trial, which was due to start in the Victorian Supreme Court next month. Police have alleged Besim is motivated by an extremist ideology and has expressed support for proscribed terrorist organisations, particularly IS, that adopt a radical interpretation of Islam. Besim is due to appear at a plea hearing on August 1. He was originally committed for trial on four charges, but now only the one remains. A widow's love rat ex-boyfriend left her homeless after convincing her to invest in his jewellery business - but she has claimed victory after a judge ordered him to repay her almost 300,000. Lyn Walcott, 68, of Hadleigh, Essex, was forced to move in with friends after she lent money to her partner of seven years, Martin Forster, 57, to pay off debts and buy stock for his company. The mother-of-two met the professional gambler from Rochester, Kent, on a blind date in March 2005 - and they quickly became a couple, with him proposing just three days after their second date. Former couple: Lyn Walcott (left), 68, of Hadleigh, Essex, was forced to move in with friends after she lent money to her partner of seven years, Martin Forster (right), 57, to pay off debts and buy stock for his company But Mr Forster, who claimed he owned four jewellery shops and four houses, asked her for huge amounts of cash to build up his firm and she got into so much debt that she ended up homeless. He promised to repay her, but after various failed attempts to recover her money, Mrs Walcott took her case to Southend County Court and a judge ordered Mr Forster to pay her debts of 284,141. Mrs Walcott, a former bookkeeper, said: I thought Martin was gorgeous and charming. With our ten-year age gap, I wasn't sure why he would be interested in me, but I was flattered. He claimed he owned four jewellery shops and four houses. I felt quite vulnerable as my husband had died suddenly five years earlier just 18 months into our marriage. After wooing her with a Tiffany necklace and a fancy meal on their first date, Mr Forster asked her to move in with him on their second date - and he proposed only three days later. She said: I was so besotted with Martin that his quick actions didn't strike me as odd. But I certainly didn't feel ready for our romance to move so fast, so I turned him down and we continued dating. Money woes: The mother-of-two (left) met the professional gambler (right) from Rochester, Kent, on a blind date in 2005 - and they quickly became a couple, with him proposing just three days after their second date Eight months later he asked her to invest 8,000 in his jewellery firm, promising she would double her money. Days later he said her cash had been lost in transit so she loaned him a further 8,000. Former bookkeeper: By 2013 Mrs Walcott was forced to sell her house in Wales to pay off the loans she had taken out for him and ended up homeless Mrs Walcott said: At this point, I had no reason not to trust him. He even signed an agreement promising me he would pay me 17,000 along with 3,000 interest by the end of the year. But the two cheques he gave me bounced. In March 2006, she mortgaged her apartment, which she had bought with cash, to loan him 115,000 in return for shares in his firm. Mrs Walcott continued: My son was shocked at how I was falling for Martin's charm and begged me to stop lending him money. But Martin had convinced me that I would be repaid after he sold his house in Arizona. Over the next eight months, she loaned him 56,000 to buy stock for his shops, spending money for trips to Las Vegas where he gambled, and paid for holidays for the two of them and Mr Forster's daughter. By December 2006, he had repaid just 11,950 of almost 200,000 that he had borrowed and seven months later she gave him an ultimatum. She said: I'd had enough and refused to finance him any longer unless he was committed to me. So we moved in together. Over the next 16 months, she loaned him a further 75,000, including 18,000 to prevent his Mercedes being repossessed, to pay off debts and buy stock. Despite retiring early at the age of 60, Mrs Walcott was forced to get a job as a clerk to pay off her mortgage. She said: My heart was leading my head and I was simply in too deep by this point. But in May 2008, she discovered a credit card receipt showing Mr Forster - who did indeed own a jewellery business - had paid for flights for another woman to Las Vegas. When she confronted him about it, he claimed she was a business client. Despite this, seven months later the two of them were engaged. Mrs Walcott said: I did love him and wanted a happy ending. Looking back, I can't believe how I fell for his lies. While they were holidaying in the US, Mrs Walcott discovered he did not even own a house in Arizona. Previous husband: Mrs Walcott is pictured with late husband Nigel on their wedding day in January 1999 in Barbados. He died suddenly just 18 months into their marriage She said: Alarm bells starting ringing. I realised he had lied the whole time about the house but I felt too vulnerable asking him for an explanation while I was on my own with him in a foreign country. In November 2015, a judge in Southend ordered Mr Forster to pay Mrs Walcott debts of 284,141,67 Back at home I wanted to confront him about his lies, but I was terrified I'd never see a penny of my money. I was blinded by love and brainwashed by his deceit. The relationship continued and, in March 2009, the couple set a date to get married in Las Vegas. But when they arrived, Mr Forster called the wedding off. She said: I had decided that I'd had enough of his game and was ready to get him out of my life for good but, when he got home to the UK, he had a heart attack. I felt sorry for him and looked after him in hospital. Meanwhile, Lyn was bombarded with calls from bailiffs - demanding their money back. The stress of debt collectors caused painful flare ups of her rheumatoid arthritis, which meant she often couldn't leave the house. She said: Martin kept threatening me saying if his company went bust, he would flee to America and I'd never see any of my money. So stupidly I loaned him a further 9,000 in December 2010 to avoid further problems. I was desperate to get the debt collectors off my back. In July 2011, Mrs Walcott discovered the apparent extent of Mr Forsters deceit when she received a message on Facebook from a lady claiming to be his fiancee. She said: When I received the bombshell that was the final straw. Not only had Martin duped me out of thousands of pounds, he was having an affair behind my back. Luxury car: Mrs Walcott paid Mr Forster 18,000 to prevent his Mercedes (pictured) being repossessed I asked him to leave my house but he promised he would stop seeing her, begging me to let him and his daughter stay. I felt sorry for him so I allowed him to stay while he looked for somewhere to live. Mrs Walcott discovered the apparent extent of Mr Forsters deceit when she received a message on Facebook from a lady claiming to be his fiancee A short while later, another lady contacted Mrs Walcott, claiming to be in a relationship with Mr Forster, so in April 2012 she kicked him out of her home for good. By 2013 Mrs Walcott was forced to sell her house in Wales to pay off the loans she had taken out for him and ended up homeless. She had to stay with friends before moving into rented accommodation. Over the next few years, Mr Forster promised to repay Mrs Walcott but, after numerous failed attempts to recover her money, she contacted a money claims department who transferred her case to court. In November 2015, a judge in Southend ordered Mr Forster to pay Mrs Walcott debts of 284,141,67. She said: This is a moral victory for me as Martin made me out to be a liar to all of our friends. I'm not confident I'll ever see another penny of my money but I'll never stop trying. I can't believe I fell for his lies - I'm a smart businesswoman and I'm sensible. To any ladies out there that come across Martin, do not give him any money. But Mr Forster said: The repayment order is with the Royal Court of Appeal in London with a new hearing date being organised. I think you will have more of a story from me, especially as it will be proven Lyn owes me money. As for the cheating allegations, I have never cheated on anyone. A heart-warming video captures a rare baby bonobo expertly tackling the ropes in his enclosure. Despite his young age, the great ape swiftly climbs up and down the course at Twycross Zoo in Warwickshire, supervised by an adult close by. With nimble fingers and strong arms the primate demonstrates his powerful abilities, before stopping to cutely chew the rope on the floor. Monkey business: At Twycross Zoo in Warwickshire the baby bonobo expertly tackles the ropes Powerful primate: The endangered great ape demonstrates his skills despite his young age The footage was taken in Atherstone last week and shows the endangered species, only found in the remote basin of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Twycross Zoo is the only location in the UK to see them, and there were only 11 births in all zoos across the world last year. Scroll down for videos Despite their obvious climbing skills, bonobos face increasing threats in the wild and according to the IUCN their numbers have been in decline for the last 30 years. On average they live for 40 years, share 98% of their DNA with humans, and have very complex methods of communications. Dr Charlotte Macdonald, Director of Life Sciences said, 'Bonobos use sex as a communication tool, so it is not always used for reproduction, but also to establish social hierarchies or to avoid potentially aggressive situations,' according to the Zoo website. Bonobo appetit: The baby stops to see how the rope tastes. Bonobo numbers have been declining for 30 years And it has also been revealed that female bonobos could have become the dominant sex in societies by deceiving males, reports phys.org. The females are able to mislead the males with unreliable sexual swellings which can last 31 days, making it difficult for a male to guard a mate to make sure he is the one producing the offspring. This is not the first time the bonobos at Twycross have been seen enjoying themselves. In an amusing video that emerged earlier this month, both baby gorillas and baby bonobos were recorded hurling themselves down a grassy slope in an epic rolling battle. But nobody quite knew who the victor was in the entertaining contest. BEACH -- A Beach man has been charged with murdering another man three weeks after he allegedly shot him in the head. Though details about the incident are slim, court documents state Gabriel Alexander Castro, 22, shot Richard Young, 24, also of Beach, on June 6 with a 1911 model .45-caliber pistol. Young died from his injuries on June 10 in a Bismarck hospital. Castro was officially charged with Class AA felony murder on June 24, the day he made his initial appearance in Southwest District Court, and is being held on $500,000 bond at the Southwest Multi-County Correctional Center in Dickinson. If convicted, he faces life in prison. Court documents state Castro also intentionally interfered with law enforcements investigation by altering the firearm and removing items with fingerprints. He faces charges of hindering law enforcement, a Class C felony, and providing false information to an officer about the circumstances surrounding the shooting, a Class A misdemeanor. Castro has a preliminary hearing before Southwest District Judge Dann Greenwood on July 28. Golden Valley County Sheriff Scott Steele said he could not provide details about the case as it remains under investigation. Steele added that he could not comment on whether or not the pistol Castro used was legally obtained. Golden Valley County States Attorney Christina Wenko said both the sheriffs office and the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation are investigating the shooting. Beach Mayor Walt Losinski said it has been decades since the last murder charge in Beach. He recalled a murder happening sometime in the 1970s, but none since. He said he doesnt know much about the shooting and neither do many others in the southwest North Dakota town of about 1,100 people just 1 mile from the Montana state line. Theyve sure kept quiet about it because I havent heard anything, he said, referring to law enforcement. The two men both came to Beach from other states. Castros Facebook page states he was working in the deli at the Pilot Flying J Travel Center in Beach and that he attended high school in Phoenix. A Flying J spokesperson said she could not comment on Castros employment. A GoFundMe page dedicated to Young states that he was originally from Oregon, was a member of the U.S. Marine Corps and had a child. Advertisement Boris Johnson's allies warned there is a 'deep pit in Hell' waiting for Michael Gove tonight after the Justice Secretary stabbed his fellow Brexit champion in the back saying he was not up to being Prime Minister. Mr Gove delivered a brutal verdict on Mr Johnson's capabilities and questioned whether his 'heart and soul' were in taking us out of the EU, effectively ending his hopes of succeeding David Cameron, as he announced his own bid for Downing Street. Damning his friend with faint praise, Mr Gove said he had 'enjoyed working with him' during the referendum campaign. But he said: 'I realised in the last few days that Boris isn't capable of building that team and providing that unity. 'And so I came reluctantly but firmly to the conclusion that as someone who had argued from the beginning that we should leave the European Union and as someone who wanted ensure that a bold, positive vision for our future was implemented, that I had to stand for leadership of the Conservative party.' He added: 'I thought it was right that following the decision that the people took last week that we should have someone leading the Conservative party and leading the country who believed in their heart and soul that Britain was better off outside the European Union.' As the blows rained down on Mr Johnson this morning, key backers Nick Boles and Dominic Raab defected to Mr Gove's campaign and arch-rival Theresa May won support from Leader of the House Chris Grayling - another Brexit champion. Boris Johnson seen leaving St Ermin's Hotel in Westminster with wife Marina today after dramatically ruling himself out of the contest in the wake of Mr Gove's surprise move Mr Gove delivered a brutal assessment of Mr Johnson in an interview, saying he was not up to the job of Prime Minister and questioning whether his 'heart and soul' was in taking Britain out of the EU Within hours Mr Johnson, who had been the hot favourite, was using an event that had been intended as his campaign launch to rule himself out. Tory MP Jake Berry posted on Twitter: 'There is a very deep pit reserved in Hell for such as he. #Gove' And an aide is said to have texted a journalist: 'Gove is a c*** who set this up from the start.' Mr Johnson's father Stanley cited the famous Shakespeare rebuke from Julius Caesar after his friend Brutus stabbed him. ''Et tu Brute' is my comment on that,' he told BBC Radio 4. 'I don't think he is called Brutus, but you never know.' In his speech, Mr Johnson said the next Prime Minister had to seize Britain's 'moment to stand tall in the world'. 'But I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punch line for this speech, that having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in Parliament, I have concluded that person cannot be me,' he said. 'My role will be to give every possible support to the next Conservative administration, to make sure that we properly fulfill the mandate of the people that was delivered at the referendum and to champion the agenda I believe in.' Tory MP Jake Berry vented his anger at Mr Gove on Twitter The Conservatives' ruling 1922 committee has confirmed that the candidates are Mrs May, Mr Gove, Treasury minister Andrea Leadsom, Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb and ex-defence secretary Liam Fox. Mr Johnson saved his shock withdrawal for the end of a lengthy valedictory speech in which he stressed his achievements in City Hall and urged the UK to look towards a brighter future outside of the EU. Mr Gove had been expected to play a key role in Mr Johnson's campaign after the pair worked hand in glove to deliver victory for Brexit in the historic referendum. He has repeatedly ruled out making a bid for Downing Street in the past - including memorably offering to record his denial in blood on a parchment. However, there were hints of tensions with Mr Johnson last night when an email written by Mr Gove's wife surfaced which urged him to seek assurances on key issues. Brexit supporters had been alarmed by an article Mr Johnson penned earlier this week in which he suggested that access to the single market could be more important than curbing immigration. The ex-mayor's team have been engaged in a desperate effort to reassure Leave-supporting MPs that he will not 'backslide' after the referendum. Anxieties were heightened by the fact he was thought to have switched sides to campaign for Brexit at the last minute. Mr Johnson said he had decided to withdraw after consulting colleagues and 'in view of the circumstances in Parliament' Justice Secretary Michael Gove, right, announced he is running for the Tory leadership after falling out with Brexit ally Boris Johnson, pictured leaving home today EIGHT HOURS THAT CHANGED THE FACE OF BRITISH POLITICS 8.57am: Michael Gove tells Boris Johnson he will be standing as Tory leader. 9.02am: Mr Gove issues a statement confirming his candidacy. 9.17am: Andrea Leadsom, another leading Tory Brexiteer, launches her own leadership bid. 9.35am: Chris Grayling, yet another senior member of Vote Leave, introduces Theresa May at her expected leadership campaign launch. 9.57am: Asked why she should be Prime Minister, Mrs May declares it's because she would be best at the job. 10.55am: Dominic Raab, a close of Boris Johnson who today wrote a newspaper column endorsing the ex-London Mayor, appears on Sky News to back Michael Gove. 11.10am: Nicky Morgan and Jeremy Hunt, who both revealed they were considering leadership challenges, drop out and back Michael Gove and Theresa May respectively. 11.44am: Mr Johnson arrives at the St Ermin's Hotel in central London for his leadership campaign launch. 11.53am: Mr Johnson reveals the 'punchline' in his speech is he is not running for leader. 12.00pm: Nominations close. Five candidates have filed papers - Mrs May, Mr Gove, Ms Leadsom, Liam Fox and Stephen Crabb. 4.38pm: Tory MP Jake Berry tweets there is a 'very deep pit reserved in hell' for Mr Gove. 17.02pm: After hours of clips of him insisting he was neither capable of or interested in being Tory leader and Prime Minister, Mr Gove gives an interview explaining he decided to run after allies said 'Michael - it should be you!' Advertisement David Cameron's biographer Anthony Seldon claimed in an article today that Mr Johnson's decision 'went down to the wire' and Downing Street aides believed he was primarily motivated by his desire to become Prime Minister. The email from Mr Gove's wife, which surfaced last night after apparently being sent to the wrong person in error, urged him to seek 'reassurance' from 'Boris' about his role in future plans before pledging his support. Sarah Vine, who is a Daily Mail columnist, said that without these assurances, her husband should not be prepared to side with the former London Mayor in his battle for Number Ten. Mr Johnson was given just five minutes' warning before Mr Gove released his statement saying he was the best man to make Britain 'stronger and fairer'. He said the post-Brexit period was a 'unique chance to heal divisions, give everyone a stake in the future and set an example as the most creative, innovative and progressive country in the world'. Mr Gove acknowledged he had repeatedly said he did not want to be PM and but admitted events since the referendum had 'weighed heavily with me'. 'The British people voted for change last Thursday. They sent us a clear instruction they want Britain to leave the EU and end the supremacy of EU law,' he said in a statement. 'They told us to restore democratic control of immigration policy and to spend their money on national priorities such as health, education and science instead of giving it to Brussels. 'They rejected politics as usual. They want and need a new approach to running this country. He added: I have come reluctantly to the conclusions Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead. 'I have therefore decided to put my name forward for the leadership.' The shift triggered a massive swing of support away from Mr Johnson, whose team had previously been boasting of having up to 100 MPs on board. Justifying his decision in an interview later, Mr Gove insisted a Brexit supporter should now run the country. 'And I hoped that Boris Johnson would be someone who could ensure that the Government follow the instructions of the British people and also build and unite a team around him in order to lead this country forward,' he said. Among the other fast-moving developments on another breathless day in politics: Theresa May confirmed she was standing for leader and said she would abandon the government's target for eradicating the deficit in the wake of the Brexit vote. The Home Secretary swiped at Eton-educated Mr Johnson for having no clue about the experience of everyday people. She also dismissed his ability to negotiate a new deal with the EU, mocking him for having bought 'three nearly new water cannon' last time he negotiated with the Germans. Tory heavyweights started picking sides in the leadership battle, with Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt dropping his own ambitions and supporting Mrs May. Education Secretary Nicky Morgan, who had also been mulling a run, said she would back Mr Gove. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn lashed out at Mr Johnson and Mr Gove for 'hateful racism' during the EU referendum campaign. Theresa May launched a stinging assault on Mr Johnson today as she formally announced she is a candidate amid polls giving her a clear lead in the race. At a press conference held within minutes of Mr Gove's bombshell, she insisted the country needed someone with 'experience' at a time of huge change, jibed that he did not understand the lives of ordinary people, and pointed out that the last time he negotiated with the Germans he bought 'three nearly new water canons'. After a morning of high drama at Westminster Mr Johnson abandoned his hopes of reaching Downing Street at an event that had been intended as his campaign launch Theresa May was praised for a bravura performance as she launched her campaign today. Within an hour her arch-rival Mr Johnson had dropped out Mr Johnson, who was flanked by police as he left home this morning, was rocked by a series of devastating blows as Michael Gove abandoned him and poached his top campaign team Nick Boles and Dominic Raab Mrs May also dramatically announced that she will abandoned the government's whole austerity plan if she ends up in Number 10. She said there would no longer be a target to eradicate the deficit by 2020. Despite campaigning for Remain, the Home Secretary promised to take Britain out of the EU and curb the free movement of migrants. Mrs May said she would appoint a Cabinet Minister for Brexit who will be a Eurosceptic. She also argued that Article 50 - the formal mechanism for starting our exit from the EU - should not be triggered until the end of the year, David Cameron pictured (left) leaving Downing Street shortly after news broke that Boris Johnson had crashed out of the leadership race after his erstwhile colleague Michael Gove suddenly decided to stand. Mr Gove's wife Sarah Vine (right), a Daily Mail columnist, let the cat out of the bag last night after mistakenly sending an email to the wrong person. In it she urged her husband to seek reassurances from Johnson about his role JOB HE INSISTED HE DIDN'T WANT August 2012 If anyone wants me to sign a piece of parchment in my own blood saying I dont want to be Prime Minister, then Im perfectly happy to do that. October 2012 I could not be Prime Minister, I am not equipped to be Prime Minister, I dont want to be Prime Minister. September 2013 I am an inconceivable choice as party leader. I dont want to do it; I wouldnt do it; it wouldnt matter how many people asked me to do it I dont think there would be very many. May 6, 2016 I dont want to do it and there are people who are far better equipped than me to do it. May 31 The one thing I absolutely dont want to do is to be Prime Minister. June 3 The one thing I can tell you is there are lots of talented people who could be Prime Minister after David Cameron but count me out. June 18 I dont think I have got that exceptional level of ability required to do the job. Advertisement 'We need leadership that can unite our party and our country. With the Labour Party tearing itself apart and divisive nationalists in Scotland and Wales , we need a government working in the best interests of the whole country, she said. 'We need a bold, new positive vision for the future of our country.' She also ruled out a snap general election: 'There should be no general election until 2020, there should be a normal Autumn Statement and no emergency Budget and there should be no decision to invoke Article 50 until the British negotiating strategy is agreed and clear, which means Article 50 will not be invoked until the end of this year.' Mrs May said the UK should abandon austerity measures and efforts to tackle the deficit. 'While it is absolutely vital that the Government continues with its intention to reduce public spending and cut the budget deficit, we should no longer seek to reduce a budget surplus by the end of the Parliament,' she said. If before 2020 there is a choice between further spending cuts, more borrowing and tax rises, the priority must be to avoid tax increases since they would disrupt consumption, employment and investment.' Asked whether she was the best person to negotiate with European leaders, she took the chance to take a swipe at Mr Johnson's negotiation skills. 'As to why I am the best person who can negotiate with Angela Merkel, well I would simply say this: I have done this, I have sat round the table, I know what it's like in those European meetings. 'I've not just done it, I've delivered on negotiations. Now of course, I know other people have also negotiated in Europe, I mean I think Boris negotiated in Europe I seem to remember last time he did a deal with the Germans he came back with three nearly new water canons,' she joked, joining the room in laughter. In another slap at Mr Johnson, she said unlike others she was not motivated by 'ambition or glory'. 'I know some politicians seek high office because they're driven by ideological fervour. I know other seek it for reasons of ambition or glory. But my reasons are much simpler,' Mrs May said. 'I grew up the daughter of a local vicar and the granddaughter of a regimental sergeant major. 'Public service has been a part of who I am for as long as I can remember. 'I know I'm not a showy politician; I don't tour the television studios, I don't gossip about people over lunch, I don't go drinking in parliament's bars, I don't often wear my heart on my sleeve, I just get on with the job in front of me.' Slide me Michael Gove started out as a journalist in 1989 and worked in newspapers, radio and TV (left) in the early 1990s before becoming elected as the Conservative MP for Surrey Heath in 2005. He returned home today (right) after being widely vilified on social media for his Machiavellian ways Mrs May said: 'A vision of a country that works not for a privileged few but for everyone of us.' She said there could be no going back on Brexit but said she did not believe Article 50 should be invoked before end of the year. And she ruled out a general election before 2020 if she wins the election. Mrs May said 'strong proven leadership' was needed to hammer out a good deal with the EU and she announced a new department would be set up to handle Brexit led by a Secretary of State who campaigned for Leave. Mrs May launched her campaign at the RUSI in central London. The event was attended by supporters including Cabinet minister Chris Grayling, Justine Greening, and Falklands veteran Simon Weston Mrs May said the last time Boris Johnson did a deal with the Germans he came back with three nearly new water cannons Mrs May, pictured with Commons leader Chris Grayling, took a swipe at Boris Johnson by saying some politicians did not understand how ordinary people lived She said: 'Nobody should fool themselves that this process will be brief or straightforward. 'It's going to take a period of several years to disentangle from the rules and processes of Brussels.' She added: 'I want to be clear that as we conduct our negotiation, it must be a priority to allow British companies to trade in goods and services within the single market but also regain more control over the number of people coming here from Europe.' Last night there was a boost to Mrs May's leadership ambitions after Tory members gave her a 17-point lead over Mr Johnson. In the first poll of party members since the EU Referendum, support for Mrs May was at 55 per cent and at 38 per cent for Mr Johnson. GOVES LIKENED TO THE MACBETHS AND 'POUNDLAND LANNISTERS' AFTER TURNING ON JOHNSON Michael Gove and his wife were branded 'Lord and Lady Macbeth' and 'Poundland Lannisters' today after dramatically killing off Boris Johnson's Downing Street dream. Having initially seemed to be a key backer of Mr Johnson, the Justice Secretary announced his own bid for the Tory leadership this morning and questioned his colleague's commitment to cutting ties with Brussels. Within hours of the devastating blow Mr Johnson, who had been the hot favourite, was using an event that had been intended as his campaign launch to rule himself out. An aide is said to have texted a journalist: 'Gove is a c*** who set this up from the start.' The first sign of the sudden turnaround came last night when a leaked email revealed that Mr Gove's wife had urged him to seek 'reassurance' from 'Boris' about his role in future plans before pledging his support. Sarah Vine, who is a Daily Mail columnist, said that without these assurances, her husband should not be prepared to side with the former London Mayor in his battle for Number Ten. It is believed the email was leaked when she accidentally sent the email to a member of the public who has the same surname as one of Mr Gove's advisers. In the Commons, Mr Salmond labelled Justice Secretary Mr Gove 'Lord Macbeth' in a reference to Shakespeare's famous tragic play. He said he had 'dispatched' David Cameron before knocking Boris Johnson out of the Tory leadership race. Twitter users also likened the political power couple to the Macbeths, and one updated the comparison by suggesting Sarah Vine was like a 'Poundland' Cersei Lannister - a sneaky character from hit series Game of Thrones. Advertisement Tory members had been asked which of the pair they would support if they were head-to-head in the final round of the contest. The poll was carried out by YouGov for The Times. She will say that her vision as PM will be to restore battered public trust in politics by presiding over a Government that 'works not for a privileged few but for every one of us'. Two hours after her official declaration, Mr Johnson will officially unveil his own 'Back Boris in 2016' campaign. The ex-London mayor will pledge 'opportunity' for all and urge Britain to believe in itself again post-Brexit. Yesterday, Mrs May's aides vowed there would be 'no deals' cut with Mr Johnson triggering a potentially bruising nine-week battle for the top job that both have coveted for years. Writing in The Times, Mrs May set her sights on Mr Johnson's privileged background as she attacked unnamed Westminster figures who do not appreciate hardship and believe the government 'is a game'. Appealing to blue-collar Tories she wrote: 'If you're from an ordinary, working-class family, life is just much harder than many people in politics realise. 'You have a job, but you don't always have job security. You have your own home, but you worry about mortgage rates going up. 'Frankly, not everybody in Westminster understands what it's like to live like this. 'And some need to be told that what the government does isn't a game, it's a serious business that has real consequences for people's lives.' Westminster has been rife with intrigue and backroom deals as the leading contenders lobbied for support. Mrs May has secured backing from Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond, International Development Secretary Justine Greening and housing minister Brandon Lewis, who praised her sincerity and serious style. Other supporters unveiled by Mrs May yesterday include justice minister Mike Penning a former top aide to Iain Duncan Smith who campaigned for Leave. Allies point to her achievements as the longest-serving home secretary in more than half a century, including introducing modern slavery bill and limiting the use of stop and search, which was being disproportionately targeted at young black men. But until this morning Mr Johnson was thought to be well ahead to have 100 supporters while Mrs May reportedly had between 50 and 80. Yesterday it emerged that an attempt to bring the two together on a joint ticket failed when Mr Johnson was kept waiting for 20 minutes by the Home Secretary, who announced she was not coming. Mrs May's spokesman declared after the incident was revealed: 'Theresa is in it to win it. She does not want any deals. She would rather lose than do a deal.' SNP leader Alex Salmond labelled Mr Gove as 'Lord Macbeth' for having 'dispatched' Prime Minister David Cameron before knocking Boris Johnson out of the Tory leadership race. The former SNP leader also asked Commons Leader Chris Grayling, who is backing Home Secretary Theresa May's leadership bid, if he feared he will soon be targeted by Mr Gove. To laughs, Mr Salmond suggested to Mr Grayling: 'Can we have a week-long debate on political backstabbing? 'We're going to need a week because all of the PLP (Parliamentary Labour Party) will want to take part, but they are rank amateurs compared to (Mr Gove), the Lord Macbeth of this chamber, who having dispatched the Prime Minister today is dispatching the Prime Minister's greatest rival. 'What makes you think that Lord Macbeth's dagger won't soon be turned to you and the Home Secretary?' Tory frontbencher Mr Grayling replied: '(Mr Gove) has been, in my view, an excellent education secretary, an excellent chief whip and is now doing an excellent job in the role I used to perform as Lord Chancellor. 'He has friends and the confidence of this side of the House and he is, for the Scottish National Party, a formidable adversary.' Announcing the five candidates today, the chairman of the 1922 Committee, Graham Brady, confirmed the first set of voting will take place on Tuesday as the party's MPs narrow down the field of five candidates to two. With the least successful contender eliminated at each round, further ballots will be held on Thursday, then successive Tuesdays and Thursdays until two front-runners emerge to be put forward to the party membership in the country for a final decision. Mr Brady said the committee wants a winner to be chosen by September 9. A handful of Tory MPs reacted with disbelief as news that Mr Johnson would not be seeking the leadership filtered through as they waited for Mr Brady's announcement. Mr Gove - regarded as an intellectual heavyweight in the cabinet - has seen his once-close friendship with Mr Cameron smashed by the bitter battle over EU membership. He is now bound to face questions about his repeated denial of leadership ambitions, In 2012 he told Sky News: 'I don't want to be prime minister,' he told Sky News at the time. 'Having seen close up how he does the job, I know that I couldn't do it.' Michael Gove arrives back at his home in London tonight after one of the most astonishing weeks in British politics Politicians, he noted, were constantly accused of 'leaving the door open' in such denials and suggesting they 'might wriggle out of it at some point'. 'I don't know what I can do in a way but if anyone wants me to sign a piece of parchment in my own blood saying I don't want to be prime minister, then I'm perfectly happy to do that.' Pro-EU former deputy Prime Minister Lord Heseltine slammed Mr Johnson for 'ripping apart' the Conservative Party and said he would have to 'live with the shame of what he has done'.Lord Heseltine, the former deputy prime minister, delivered a scathing verdict on Mr Johnson's actions. 'He's ripped the party apart. He's created the greatest constitutional crisis of modern times. He knocked billions off the value of the nation's savings. 'He's like a general who leads his army to the sound of guns and at the sight of the battlefield abandoned the field. I have never seen so contemptible and irresponsible a situation.' He added: 'This is a free society; there's no question of punishment. He must live with the shame of what he's done.' The Tory peer dismissed the contribution of other pro-Leave voices such as Mr Gove, saying Mr Johnson was the 'one who won the referendum'. 'Without him it would not have happened. Without him there would be none of this uncertainty, and he's abandoned the field,' he said. Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb is running for the leadership with Sajid Javid as his number two on a 'blue-collar ticket' 'Quite interesting, actually, one of the allegations upon which the referendum was conducted is that there is an elite group in this country who are out of touch. Well, it's that elite group that now has to pick up the pieces of Britain's self-interest while Boris Johnson abandons any sense of responsibility for what he's done.' Meanwhile, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has launched a furious attack on Mr Johnson and Mr Gove for their 'hateful' and 'racist' referendum campaign. 'Boris Johnson ... compared Hitler's murderous tyranny with the European project created from its ashes and questioned Barack Obama's motives because of his 'part-Kenyan heritage,' he told a press conference this morning. Hollywood actor Ewan McGregor slammed Mr Johnson on Twitter 'That was no dog whistle. That was a fog horn - a classic racist trope casting doubt on someone's motivation because of their race. 'The Justice Secretary Michael Gove compared pro-Remain economists to Nazi collaborators, a startling example of the way in which the Nazi regime and the Holocaust can be minimized, trivialized or even forgotten by ill-judged comparisons. 'And Nigel Farage warned of mass sex attacks should the Remain Campaign win, calling it the 'nuclear bomb' of the Brexit campaign. Is it only me who just doesn't find him funny any more? 'These are hateful comments - no question. They are unworthy of the millions who voted to Leave, not out of xenophobia or racism, but often as a desperate response - yes to austerity, but also to years of being ignored and left behind by the Westminster elite. CHOOSING A PM: HOW THE CONSERVATIVE LEADERSHIP ELECTION WORKS David Cameron announced he is resigning as Prime Minister when he made his post-Brexit statement in the early hours of Friday morning alongside his wife Samantha The leadership election is a two-stage process - first Conservative MPs have their say, then members of the party all around the country are able to vote. If there are two or more candidates, all Tory MPs vote on who they prefer, with the bottom candidate in each round being eliminated until only two are left. The final two then make their pitch to members of the party in a straight head-to-head contest, with the winner determined by postal voting. The winner will be announced on September 9 and is likely to be appointed Prime Minister later that day. Only full members of the party who pay their 25 subscription are entitled to vote - unlike in Labour's leadership contest, where supporters could register for just 3. Advertisement The Home Secretary was also ahead when Conservatives were asked who would be their first choice as party leader Former Secretary of State for Defence Liam Fox is a candidate. but Education secretary Nicky Morgan has decided not to stand and backed Mr Gove Tory MP Andrea Leadsom has announced she will run, but Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said he will not and thrown his weight behind Mrs May LIAM FOX ENTERS THE RACE AS 'VOICE OF EXPERIENCE' Liam Fox will today highlight his humble background and his experience as he launches his bid Liam Fox highlighted his humble background today and his experience as he launched his bid to win the Tory crown. The former defence secretary and prominent Leave supporter has thrown his hat into the ring 11 years after coming third to David Cameron in the last Tory contest. He pointed out that his grandparents had been miners, that he grew up in a council house and went to a comprehensive. Mr Johnson went to Eton and Oxford. Dr Fox resigned as defence secretary in 2011 after being found guilty of breaching the ministerial code over his links with self-styled adviser Adam Werritty. He will hope to draw support from the right of the party. There had been rumours he was hoping to reach a deal with Home Secretary Theresa May in the hope of a good job should she win. But announcing his candidacy, Dr Fox said: 'It's a question of nuance, of experience, of background, which of course matters in politics. We need to restore more of the ideas of meritocracy. I don't come from a traditional Conservative background. 'My grandparents were miners and my father was a teacher. I grew up in a council house and went to a comprehensive school. 'Where I grew up in the west of Scotland you didn't do that because you were intent on a political career.' Dr Fox said he also offered the accumulated wisdom of his long experience in politics, adding: 'Having grey hairs has some advantages.' Dr Fox's campaign manager will be Sir Gerald Howarth, a former defence minister. Another five MPs backed him. Advertisement A man has been charged with the murder of a six-month old baby who died in hospital after being found with suspicious injuries to his head and neck. An infant named Chase died in Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital after his mother Michelle Dearing found him injured and unresponsive inside a Glenroy housing commission unit on Sunday morning. Dwayne Justin Lindsey, 33, was taken into custody at a Sunshine North home, in Melbourne's west, after a four day man hunt on Thursday and charged the infant's murder. Scroll down for video A six-month old baby named Chase died in Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital after his mother Michelle found him injured and unresponsive in a Glenroy housing commission unit on Sunday morning Dwayne Lindsey, 33, was taken into custody at a Sunshine North home, in Melbourne's west, after a four day man hunt on Thursday and charged the infant's murder Mr Lindsey, who is known to police, is understood to be a friend of the child's mother who had moved into the unit only days before Chase's death, the Age reported. Police allege he inflicted the fatal injuries and was at the unit on Isla Avenue when emergency services were called about 'an unresponsive child' at about 8.30am on Sunday. But he disappeared before he could be quesioned and spent four days on the run before his arrest. Ms Dearing said she is heartbroken and can't believe she will never hear her 'innocent' son's giggle or lay eyes on his 'beautiful smile' again. 'It hurts so much waking up knowing he's not there anymore. I'm never going to hear him say 'mum' again,' she told Seven News. 'It just shouldn't have happened. He was such a beautiful little boy, so happy.' Michelle Dearing said she is heartbroken and can't believe she will never hear her 'innocent' son's giggle or lay eyes on his beautiful smile again A neighbour said he heard the baby crying 'non-stop' for around two hours before the noise suddenly stopped on Sunday morning and a man started stamping his feet in an attempt to 'wake' the infant A neighbour said he heard the baby crying 'non-stop' for around two hours before the noise suddenly stopped on Sunday morning and a man started stamping his feet in an attempt to 'wake' the infant, the Herald Sun reported. 'Kids don't just suddenly stop after two hours like you are turning off a switch. 'I heard him trying to wake the kid up,' the witness said. They told the Herald Sun that the man did not call Chase by his name as he tried to wake him. 'He didn't know about babies because of the way he tried to wake it up... He just goes: 'Hey you, hey you, hey you' all the time.' Mr Lindsey, who has no fixed address, faced and out of sessions hearing at the Melbourne West Police on Thursday evening. Sanchez is being held in custody with a bail requirement of $1,500,000 She is accused of killing 69-year-old Jack Ray Tenhulzen with her car A woman arrested after killing a homeless man and severing his leg while driving drunk and leaving his body wedged in her windshield has pleaded not guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter. Esteysi Izazaga Sanchez, 29, also known as Stacy, is accused of killing 69-year-old Jack Ray Tenhulzen in Oceanside, San Diego, by hitting him while he was walking along a street, and then continuing to drive for at least half-a-mile before abandoning her car and running home. Such was the force of the impact, prosecutors claim, Mr Tenhulzen's leg was severed before it bounced over the roof and landed on the car's trunk. Scroll down for video Stacy Sanchez, 29, allegedly hit and killed Jack Ray Tenhulzen , then drove for half a mile with his body wedged in her windshield as she made her way home from a night out in Oceanside, California Sanchez's smashed car is seen being taken away from the scene after investigators removed the body Court documents show she is being held in custody on five counts with a bail requirement of $1,500,000 According to CBS 8, when police arrested Sanchez she still had shards of glass in her hair from the car's windshield. Deputy District Attorney Aimee Mcleod branded Sanchez a 'great danger to the public'. McLeod said Sanchez had a blood alcohol content of between .18 and .19 percent - far in excess of the legal limit of .08. Customs officers have also placed an immigration hold on Sanchez. According to court documents, Sanchez is facing one count of vehicle homicide, one hit-and-run, two DUIs, and a single count of driving without a licence. Sanchez (pictured left before her arrest and right from a Facebook photo) told police she had been drinking in several bars that night and was on her way home when she allegedly hit the man. She is now in custody Police say Sanchez was driving with such speed that Mr Tenhulzen went through the windshield and ended up with his head on the passenger seat. Sanchez allegedly left the car on a street near her home with his remains still on top The 29-year-old is being held at the Las Collinas Detention and Re-Entry facility in Santee on bail of $1.5million. Witnesses told Fox 5 San Diego Sanchez got out of the car screaming when she arrived back in the cul-de-sac where she lived. She then walked around the corner and entered her home. Edgar Esparza left his house and saw the car with the body still on the windshield. The teenager then asked Sanchez what had happened, but she said everything was fine. He added that her clothes suggested she had been on a night out. When paramedics arrived, they pronounced Mr Tenhulzen dead at the scene. Investigators placed evidence markers where his wallet, keys and pants had been found. They also had to cover Sanchez's car with a tarp sheet so neighbors couldn't see his body. Mr Tenhulzen is believed to have been walking to a soup kitchen when he was knocked down. Residents in the area said he was homeless, but they didn't know his name. Sanchez told cops she had been drinking in several bars that night and was on her way home when she allegedly hit him. Sanchez was taken into custody and her bail has been set at $1.5million. Police are seen picking up evidence from the road where the man was hit. They were seen placing evidence markers where his wallet, keys and pants had been found A Ukip MEP has been caught making a rude gesture at pro-European rivals behind the back of his party leader Nigel Farage. Ray Finch, MEP for south-east England and a close ally of Mr Farage, aimed the gesture at another politician ahead of the EU referendum during a debate in Strasbourg. Mr Farage was being heckled on June 8 when he told MEPs he was leaving the European Parliament for the UK referendum campaign and may be some time'. Behind him Mr Finch was clearly riled by the abuse his friend was getting so swore at a rival. Caught on camera: Ray Finch makes a rude gesture behind the back whiule his friend Nigel Farage was giving a speech in Strasbourg Riled: Mr Finch was clearly unhappy that his party leader was being heckled by a pro-European rival It is not the first time Mr Finch has clashed with pro-EU MEPs in the chamber - was heckled by some members of the chamber over a request a request for a minute's silence to be held for victims of the July 7 bombings. Britain fell silent at 11.30am on July 7 2015 to mark the 10th anniversary of the terror attacks in which 52 people were killed in four suicide bomb blasts on the London transport network. A similar tribute was requested during a session in the European Parliament but was apparently 'ignored' by the Deputy President, who continued on with proceedings. Mr Finch stood up and yelled 'shame' and was barracked by a rival who apparently yelled back: 'No, you should be ashamed'. Mr Finch was elected to the European Parliament in 2014, having previously led Ukip on Hampshire County Council, where he is a County Councillor. He is also a close friend and ally of Nigel Farage and gave a job to his wife Kirsten. Kirsten, a bond broker whom Mr Farage met during a trip to Frankfurt in 1996, has defended her role as his former taxpayer-funded secretary, saying she often worked late, and that Mr Farage was virtually computer illiterate. She said: I sit at my computer in my nightie and am very dutiful. He has a steam-powered telephone, he can send and receive texts and thats it. Turkey and France have appeared on a chilling list of countries where ISIS claim to have 'covert units' in place, it has emerged. The terror group has released a graphic claiming to show their global influence where it says it has operatives just hours after a devastating attack at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport left 42 dead. It comes two years since ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi summoned Muslims worldwide to the group's self-proclaimed 'caliphate' in Syria in Iraq. Turkey and France have appeared on a chilling list of countries where ISIS claim to have 'covert units' in place, it has emerged ISIS claims there is a covert cell in Tunisia, where gunmen kill 38 people, including 30 British tourists, at a beach hotel in Sousse last June (file picture) The graphic claims that there are covert units operating in France - a country still reeling from a deadly wave of attacks in Paris that claimed 130 lives last November. There is also said to be a cell in Tunisia, where gunmen kill 38 people, including 30 British tourists, at a beach hotel in Sousse last June. ISIS also claim to have units in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Algeria and Lebanon. The graphic also outlines areas where it says it has 'major control' and 'medium control'. Major control areas consisted of Iraq and Syria while areas of medium control included Egypt, Chechnya, Yemen, Nigeria, Libya, Somalia, The Philippines, Niger, Afghanistan and Dagestan. It comes two years since ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (pictured) summoned Muslims worldwide to the group's self-proclaimed 'caliphate' in Syria in Iraq The terror group has released a graphic claiming to show their global influence where it says it has operatives just hours after a devastating attack at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport left 42 dead The attack in Istanbul echoed the carnage earlier this year at the Brussels airport, which left 32 dead. Three suicide attackers unleashed a deadly tide of bullets and bombs at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport. Authorities blamed ISIS for the blood bath late on Tuesday, a coordinated assault on one of the world's busiest airports and on a key NATO ally that plays a crucial role in the fight against the extremist group. Turkish police have carried out raids against suspected ISIS cells across the country after it was revealed intelligence services were reportedly warned of an attack on Istanbul airport three weeks ago. Security services swooped on addresses in Istanbul and in the Aegean coastal city of Izmir, just a day after 42 people were killed in a triple suicide bombing at Ataturk airport. The Turkish state-run Anadolu agency said that 13 suspected militants were detained after the raids in several low-income neighbourhoods of Istanbul including Pendik, Basaksehir and Sultanbeyli as well as nine arrests in four districts of Izmir. Turkish police have carried out raids against suspected ISIS cells across the country in the wake of Tuesday's terror attack. Pictured are police patrolling the entrance to Ataturk airport in Istanbul The Turkish state-run Anadolu agency said that nine suspected militants were detained after the raids They have been accused of financing, recruiting and providing logistical support to the terror group. However, it is not immediately clear if the raids were directly linked to the attack on Ataturk Airport. It comes after reports that Turkish intelligence units warned just weeks ago that ISIS were planning to attack state institutions around Turkey. According to Hurryiet Daily News, Dogan TV's Ankara representative Hande Firat stated that services sent a warning letter to all state institution about a possible attack on Istanbul. She said: 'Intelligence units sent a warning letter to the top of the state and all its institutions in early June, around 20 days ago, about Istanbul. She also reportedly added that a list of potential targets was included in the warning with Istanbul Ataturk airport being mentioned. It comes authorities have blamed ISIS for Tuesday's co-ordinated attack on one of the world's busiest airports and on a key Nato ally. Security services swooped on addresses in Istanbul and in the Aegean coastal city of Izmir, just a day after 42 people were killed in a triple suicide bombing at Ataturk airport Although the attack took a heavy toll, including more than 230 injured, the assailants were initially thwarted by extensive security on the airport's perimeter, Turkish officials said. 'When the terrorists couldn't pass the regular security system, when they couldn't pass the scanners, police and security controls, they returned and took their weapons out of their suitcases and opened fire at random at the security check,' prime minister Binali Yildirim said. One attacker detonated his explosives downstairs at the arrivals terminal, one went upstairs and blew himself up in the departure hall, and the third waited outside for the fleeing crowd and caused the final lethal blast, two Turkish officials said. It has been reported intelligence services were warned of an attack in Istanbul and on the airport three weeks ago As the chaos unfolded, terrified travellers were sent running, first from one explosion and then another. Airport surveillance video showed a panicked crowd of people, some rolling suitcases behind them, stampeding down a corridor, looking fearfully over their shoulders. Other surveillance footage posted on social media showed one explosion, a ball of fire that sent terrified passengers racing for cover. Another showed an attacker, felled by a gunshot from a security officer, blowing himself up seconds later. Investigators later found a Kalashnikov assault rifle, a handgun and two grenades on the bodies, according to Anadolu. Heathrow's hopes for a third runway could be over after David Cameron left the decision to the new prime minister. Theresa May and Michael Gove are now the front-runners to replace Mr Cameron but both serve areas close to the west London airport and their constituents are unlikely to want its expansion. David Cameron was expected to confirm whether projects at Heathrow or Gatwick would get the go-ahead in the coming weeks if the UK voted to remain in the EU. But Mr Cameron's resignation following the Brexit vote means the decision will not be made until the autumn. In trouble? Plans for a third runway at Heathrow could be threatened after the decision over expansion was delayed again Opposed: Tory leadership frontrunners Theresa May and Michael Gove both have constituencies near Heathrow and will come under pressure not to back a third runway Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin told the House of Commons: ' I had hoped that we would be able to announce a decision on airport capacity this summer. 'Clearly any announcement on airport capacity would have to be made when the House is in session and being realistic, given recent events, I cannot now foresee an announcement until at least October.' In July last year the Davies Commission called for airport expansion by 2030 and recommended the building of a third runway at Heathrow. But in December the Department for Transport announced that further investigation into noise, pollution and compensation would be carried out before a decision is made. Mr McLoughlin went on: 'We aim to publish the further analysis on air quality soon. 'Separately, promoters have announced undertakings which would increase the compensation available for residents living near the airports and the connectivity between other UK airports. 'The Government is fully committed to delivering the important infrastructure projects it has set out, including delivering runway capacity on the timetable set out by the Davies report.' Heathrow and Gatwick responded to the announcement by reiterating their claims for expansion. A statement released by Heathrow said: ' Government can send the strongest possible signal that Britain is open for business and confident in its future by expanding Heathrow.' Gatwick chief executive Stewart Wingate told the Press Association: 'When we look at whoever the next leader is, our intention will be simply to continue to press the merits of our case because we simply think we've got the strongest case and we certainly believe we've got the only deliverable case.' The delay was criticised by business leaders amid concerns that the importance of expanding aviation capacity was boosted by the vote to leave the EU. Hope: An aerial view of Gatwick Airport in Sussex, which now appears to be the frontrunner when the decision is made by the next prime minister Baroness Jo Valentine, chief executive of business group London First, said: 'Clearly this is disappointing. Nothing can be more vital for a trading island than sufficient air links, especially after the referendum result. 'There should be no question that whoever takes over from David Cameron must keep the Government's commitment to open a new runway by 2030.' Mike Cherry, national chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), added: ' The Brexit decision makes today's further postponement all the more frustrating. 'Government should be getting back to business, taking forward a major infrastructure project which would have boosted exports, jobs and growth across the UK.' Gavin Hayes, director of campaign group Let Britain Fly, said: 'One of the first tests of leadership for the next prime minister, and the clearest way of demonstrating we have strong government again, is to make this long overdue decision. Two Taliban suicide bombers have killed more than 30 people after launching a devastating attack on two buses carrying Afghan police cadets. The attack took place in Paghman district close to the capital Kabul and among the dead were police cadets and four civilians. The first suicide attacker struck two buses carrying trainee policemen, and a second attacker targeted those who rushed to the scene to help and hit a third bus. The wreckage of a bus after it was blown up by two Taliban suicide bombers close to Afghan capital Kabul Afghan security forces inspect the site of the double suicide bombing which was targeting police cadets At least 27 policemen were killed and 40 wounded after a bomb attack claimed by the Taliban struck a convoy of buses in Kabul The cadets were returning from a training centre in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave. In a statement today, the Interior Ministry said that 30 police recruits had been killed and 58 others wounded in the attack. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack through their spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Mujahid said that the attack was the work of two suicide bombers. The first targeted the bus carrying the trainee policemen and their instructors. The buses were carrying police cadets returning from a training centre in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave The office of Afghan president Mohammed Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an 'attack on humanity' in a statement A second bomber attacked 20 minutes later, when policemen had arrived at the scene to help, according to Mujahid's account. The office of Afghan president Mohammed Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an 'attack on humanity' in a statement and ordered an interior ministry investigation into the incident. In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul condemned the attack. 'This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramazan is abhorrent,' they said. Advertisement Despite plummeting from millions of racist members in the 1920s to thousands today, the Ku Klux Klan is attempting to restore itself to the force it once was. As it marks 150 years, the fascist group is looking to raise its hooded head once more and with the development in online communications, spreading the word has never been easier. Prospective white supremacy members can fill in forms online to join and can get their hands on the infamous white robes for $145, or upgrade from cotton to satin for $165 - under one condition - they are white and Christian. Klan leaflets are appearing in suburban neighborhoods all the way from the Deep South to the Northwest, there are still thousands of members actively involved and with immigration a hot topic in the U.S. presidency race, the Klan believe it is their time to shine once more. As recently as April, the KKK met in Georgia, chanting, 'Death to the ungodly!', 'Death to our enemies!' and 'White power!' as they burned crosses and carried out the rituals their murdering forefathers carried out decades ago. Scroll down for video Klan members still gather by the dozens under starry Southern skies to set fire to crosses in the dead of night, and KKK leaflets have shown up in suburban neighborhoods from the Deep South to the Northeast in recent months Today's members of the KKK dream of restoring the fascist movement to what it once was - an invisible empire spreading its tentacles throughout society Masked and hooded: New members can purchase the infamous cotton white robes online for $145 or a satin version costs $165 Born in the ashes of the smoldering South after the Civil War, the Ku Klux Klan died and was reborn before losing the fight against civil rights in the 1960s. Membership dwindled, a unified group fractured, and members went to prison for a string of murderous attacks against black people. But today, the KKK is still alive and dreams of restoring itself to an invisible empire spreading its tentacles throughout society. As it marks 150 years of existence, the Klan is trying to reshape itself for a new era. Klan members still gather by the dozens under starry Southern skies to set fire to crosses in the dead of night, and KKK leaflets have shown up in suburban neighborhoods from the Deep South to the Northeast in recent months. Perhaps most unwelcome to opponents, some independent Klan organizations say they are merging with larger groups to build strength. 'We will work on a unified Klan and/or alliance this summer,' said Brent Waller, imperial wizard of the United Dixie White Knights in Mississippi. In a series of interviews, Klan leaders said they feel that U.S. politics are going their way, as a nationalist, us-against-them mentality deepens across the nation. Stopping or limiting immigration - a desire of the Klan dating back to the 1920s - is more of a cause than ever. And leaders say membership has gone up at the twilight of President Barack Obama's second term in office, though few would provide numbers. Joining the Klan is as easy as filling out an online form - provided you're white and Christian. Members can visit an online store to buy one of the Klan's trademark white cotton robes for $145, though many splurge on the $165 satin version. While the Klan has terrorized minorities during much of the last century, its leaders now present a public front that is more virulent than violent. Leaders from several different Klan groups all said they have rules against violence aside from self-defense, and even opponents agree the KKK has toned itself down after a string of members went to prison for deadly arson attacks, beatings, bombings and shootings. 'While today's Klan has still been involved in atrocities, there is no way it is as violent as the Klan of the `60s,' said Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center, an advocacy group that tracks activity by groups it considers extremist. 'That does not mean it is some benign group that does not engage in political violence,' he added. Leaders from several different Klan groups all said they have rules against violence aside from self-defense, and even opponents agree the KKK has toned itself down after a string of members went to prison for deadly arson attacks, beatings, bombings and shootings Historian David Cunningham, author of 'Klansville, U.S.A.: The Rise and Fall of the Civil Rights-Era Ku Klux Klan,' notes that while the Klan generally doesn't openly advocate violence, 'I do think we have the sort of "other" model of violence, which is creating a culture that supports the commission of violence in the name of these ideas.' Klan leaders admitted most of today's groups remain small and operate independently, kept apart by disagreements over such issues as whether to associate with neo-Nazis, hold public rallies or wear the KKK's robes in colors other than white. So-called 'traditional' Klan groups avoid public displays and practice rituals dating back a century while others post web videos dedicated to preaching against racial diversity and warning of a coming 'white genocide'. Women are voting members in some groups, but not in others. Some leaders will not speak openly with the media but others do, articulating ambitious plans that include quietly building political strength. Some groups hold annual conventions, just like civic clubs, where members gather in meeting rooms to discuss strategies that include electing Klan members to local political offices and recruiting new blood through the internet. It's impossible to say how many members the Klan counts today since groups don't reveal that information, but leaders claim adherents in the thousands among scores of local groups called Klaverns. Waller said his group is growing, as did Chris Barker, imperial wizard of the Loyal White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan in Eden, North Carolina. 'Most Klan groups I talk to could hold a meeting in the bathroom in McDonald's,' Barker said. As for his Klavern, he said, 'Right now, I'm close to 3,800 members in my group alone.' The Anti-Defamation League, the Jewish protection group that monitors Klan activity, describes Barker's Loyal White Knights as the most active Klan group today, but estimates it has no more than 200 members total. The ADL puts total Klan membership nationwide at around 3,000. The Alabama-based SPLC says there's no evidence the Klan is returning to the strength of its heyday. It estimates the Klan has about 190 chapters nationally with no more than 6,000 members total, which would be a mere shadow of its estimated 2 million to 5 million members in the 1920s. It is estimated the Klan has about 190 chapters nationally with no more than 6,000 members total, which would be a mere shadow of its estimated two to five million members in the 1920s 'The idea of unifying the Klan like it was in the 20s is a persistent dream of the Klan, but it's not happening,' Potok said. Formed just months after the end of the Civil War by six former Confederate officers in Pulaski, Tennessee, the Klan originally seemed more like a college fraternity with ceremonial robes and odd titles for its officers. But soon, freed blacks were being terrorized, and the Klan was blamed. Hundreds of people were assaulted or killed within the span of a few years as whites tried to regain control of the defeated Confederacy. Congress effectively outlawed the Klan in 1871, leading to martial law in some places and thousands of arrests, and the group died. The Klan seemed relegated to history until World War I, when it was resurrected. It grew as waves of immigrants arrived aboard ships from Europe and elsewhere, and grew more as the NAACP challenged Jim Crow laws in the South in the 1920s. Millions joined, including community leaders like bankers and lawyers. The KKK grew as waves of immigrants arrived aboard ships from Europe and elsewhere encouraged millions to join, including community leaders like bankers and lawyers. A hooded man (left) displays a hangman's noose dangling from an automobile as a warning for black people to stay away from voting places in the municipal primary election at Miami but in spite of the threats, 616 voted; Pictured right two young boys raise their arms as a white power T-shirt is held in front of them during a Klan rally held near Benson, N.C in 1980 Members of the Ku Klux Klan, wearing traditional white hoods and robes, stand back and watch with their arms crossed after burning a 15-foot cross at Tampa, Fla, in 1939 That momentum declined, and best estimates place Klan membership at about 40,000 by the mid-'60s, the height of the civil rights movement. Klan members were convicted of using murder as a weapon against equality in states including Mississippi and Alabama, where one Klansman remains imprisoned for planting the bomb that killed four black girls in a Birmingham church in 1963. Cunningham, the historian, said the Klan dwindled to nearly nothing during the 1970s and `80s, when the SPLC sued the Alabama-based United Klans of America over the 1981 murder of Michael Donald, a black man whose beaten, slashed body was hanged from a tree. In an odd twist, Donald's mother wound up with the title to the Klan's headquarters near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, because the group didn't have the money to pay the $7 million judgment awarded in the SPLC suit. KKK leader Brent Waller was raised in Laurel, Mississippi, in the shadow of the civil rights-era Klan. He has boyhood memories of flaming crosses and of Sam Bowers, a Klan boss who served six years in prison for his role directing the murders of three civil rights workers in 1964, and who later was convicted of killing a civil rights leader in 1966. Rather than a white robe, Waller, 47, wears a snow-white suit and orange tie when in public on Klan business and insists on donning sunglasses in photos to protect his identity. The new breed: A member of the Ku Klux Klan uses a mobile device during cross burnings after a 'white pride' rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town (left) while Brent Waller, Mississippi grand dragon and spokesman for the Tennessee-based imperial wizard of the United Dixie White Knights in Mississippi poses for a photograph A man with a Nazi swastika tattooed across his shoulderblade walks during a protest at Stone Mountain Park, in Stone Mountain, Ga Stopping immigration, not blocking minority rights, is the Klan's number one issue today, Waller said. His group operates by the KKK rulebook called the 'Kloran,' which was first published in 1915. Various versions of the book are now online, and an edition posted by the University of Wisconsin library states in part: 'We shall ever be true in the faithful maintenance of White Supremacy and will strenuously oppose any compromise thereof in any and all things.' The current hot-button issue for Klan members - fighting immigration and closing U.S. borders - is one of the most talked-about topics in the presidential election. Klan leaders say Donald Trump's immigration position and his ascendancy in the GOP are signs things are going their way. 'You know, we began 40 years ago saying we need to build a wall,' Arkansas-based Klan leader Thomas Robb said. Years ago, the group Robb heads near Harrison, Arkansas, changed its name from the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan to the Knights Party USA, mainly to get away from the stigma associated with the Klan name. It now presents itself as more of a political or Christian entity. 'There is a lot of baggage with the name,' said Rachel Pendergraft, Robb's daughter, who leads the group with him. 'You say the name "KKK" and a lot of people have a narrative in their minds of what it is about, what it does. The name resonates with people, whether it is good or whether it is bad.' Despite trying to rebrand itself in many ways, 150 years later, the Klan has not stepped away from burning crosses, though it rarely does so in public. Instead, the 'lightings,' as members call them, are held on private property away from law enforcement and demonstrators. In April, Klan members and other white supremacists held two rallies on the same warm Saturday in Georgia. As the sun set, about 60 robed Klan members and others holding flaming torches gathered in a huge circle in a field in northwest Georgia to set a cross and Nazi swastika afire. 'White power!' they chanted in unison. David Cameron's sister-in-law broke ranks in the wake of his Brexit defeat, saying that she was ready join the Labour party. Emily Sheffield, the younger sister of Samantha Cameron, posted a series of politically-charged tweets hours after the vote that prompted the Prime Minister to stand down. She admitted that she had 'only voted Tory for David' and revealed that she had backed Labour in two previous elections. Breaking ranks: Samantha Cameron, right, with younger sister Emily Sheffield, deputy editor of British Vogue Changing sides: Ms Sheffield posted a string of politically charged tweets in the wake of the Brexit vote Ms Sheffield, who was expelled from private school Marlborough College after cannabis was found in her dormitory in a police raid, is the deputy editor of British Vogue. She and Mrs Cameron are both daughters of wealthy Lincolnshire landowner Sir Reginald Sheffield. While her sister has been understandably reserved when it comes to her personal political views, Ms Sheffield has been happy to share hers with her 11,600 Twitter followers. 'How quickly can I join the Labour party?,' she asked after the results were declared. Adding: 'I want to have a say so the right wing Tories are held at bay. I only voted Tory for David.' She later posted: 'Before that I voted Labour twice. The far right is not my home'. Taking a stand: The editor shared her views on the referendum fallout with her 11,600 Twitter followers But while she might be ready to ditch the Conservative party, it is clear she is still proud of the work done by her brother in law. She wrote: 'Never been more proud of @DavidCameron_MP Now we have lost a really good prime minister as well.' The posts were followed by a string of tweets over the weekend, including one that said: 'Boris and Gove will not force this when country's youth is against it, and Scotland... Make your voice heard, peacefully, firmly but loudly'. Support: Ms Sheffield, pictured left with David and Samantha Cameron and her mother, Lady Astor She also wrote: 'Inside the free market or out of it. Waiting to hear what Theresa May wants'. In 2013 Ms Sheffield embarrassed the Prime Minister by posting a picture on Instagram of her younger sister Alice on her wedding day, with Mr Cameron in the background taking an afternoon snooze on the brides bed. MINOT -- A fake email telling a Towner, N.D., man he owed money for a traffic violation in Minot he never had has been received and caused concern among law enforcement. McHenry County Chief Deputy Dustin Welstad said the man received the email through his work email in Minot. The email was headed Notice of Traffic Violation and supposedly came from the Department of Motor Vehicles using a fake email address of violations@citygovernment.co.gov. The email said the man had a traffic violation and that a payment must be received within 72 hours. He was also told to not mail in money, rather All citations must be paid online through our EasyPay Center with a link provided. There was also another link provided where the recipient may choose to contest the violation, however when clicked on, the link does not go anywhere. Officer Aaron Moss of the Minot Police Department said law enforcement agencies or court in North Dakota never notifies traffic defendants of offenses via email. Moss said state law enforcement officers issuing traffic summonses do so in person, explain the offense, explain options on how to pay or contest the violation, and provide the defendant an envelope to mail the fee to the court. Both Welstad and Moss were concerned that others in the state may get similar emails. However, as of Wednesday no other reports had been made to the McHenry County sheriffs office or Minot police. Welstad said he also contacted the state Department of Transportation about the email and they also hadnt received any other complaints so far. A friendly McDonald's worker has come in for worldwide praise on Facebook after the sister of an autistic teenager expressed her gratitude for his kindness. Aled Griffith, 20, was just two weeks into his new job when he showed a caring attitude towards 16-year-old Alex Deyes, encouraging him to order his own food and find the right money without rushing him. He also remembered exactly how the schoolboy liked his Happy Meal. The attentiveness impressed Alex's sister Katie so much that she sent a heartfelt message of thanks to the fast food chain. Caring attitude: McDonald's worker Aled Griffith (pictured left) has come in for worldwide praise on Facebook after the sister of autistic teenager Alex Deyes (right) expressed her gratitude for his kindness She wrote: 'Taking Alex anywhere can be quite a difficult task, and we usually opt for the drive-through option, but Aled made it fun and easy for us both to go in and for Alex to enjoy his meal without any funny looks or comments.' Her post has since been shared over 3,000 times and liked by more than 27,000 people, while Mr Griffith has received messages of thanks from as far away as the US and Mombassa in Kenya. One Facebook user, Jo Griffiths, wrote: 'What a lovely young man, if only their [sic] was more Aled's in this world...what an absolute legend well done Aled xx' Another, Colette Parry, said: 'Aled Griffith your a credit to not only your employer but to your mum n dad, family n friends and your generation. Well done mate it just goes to show that a little kindness and understanding goes a long way.' A humble Mr Griffith replied: 'Thank you for this but there was no need, honestly. I'm just glad he enjoyed his meal and of course his toys.' Praise: The attentiveness of Aled Griffith, 20, impressed Alex's sister Katie so much that she sent a heartfelt message of thanks to the the fast food chain. She wrote: 'Aled made it fun and easy for us' Well done: Other users praised Mr Griffith before the humble McDonald's employee replied: 'Thank you for this but there was no need, honestly. I'm just glad he enjoyed his meal and of course his toys' Alex, of Mold in north Wales, had been visiting his local McDonalds with his carer when he first met Mr Griffith. The next day he went back again with his sister, who said: 'The carer told us how Aled had encouraged Alex to order his own food and find the right money to hand over without rushing him. Impressed: Katie Deyes wrote on Facebook: 'Aled is a credit to the Mold McDonald's team' 'Aled remembered that my brother didnt drink out of the bottle for his fruit shoot and offered me an empty cup without me having to ask.' She added: 'He then came over to our table and offered to swap Alexs happy meal toy as he had given him the same one the previous evening - my brother loves collecting these toys so getting an extra, new one, was really exciting for him. 'Aled said goodbye to us as we left and left Alex feeling really happy and has asked if we can go back again to sit in and I believe thats because Aled was so friendly towards him.' Mr Griffith said: 'To me its something I would have just done anyway so Ive been a bit taken aback by all the fuss. 'Im not complaining but I had a tough childhood - I lost my dad when I was seven years old and was put into care when I was nine. 'People thought it was funny and they would make fun of me and I promised myself I would never look down on other people who are disadvantaged through no fault of their own. 'It disgusts me that people stoop so low sometimes and Ill always stand up to bullying.' Mr Griffith said he was looking forward to seeing Alex again. 'Id love to get to know him outside work and if Katie ever needs help Im here,' he added. A spokesperson for McDonalds said: 'We are delighted with the kindness and thoughtfulness Aled has shown to Katie and her brother Alex. The suicide bombers are said to have been ISIS extremists from countries of Russia, Advertisement Undercover officers unwittingly tried to stop one of the Istanbul terrorists in his tracks just moments before the cell began their murderous rampage - causing the panicked jihadi to open fire early. Text messages between the officer and his colleague reveal how he spotted the man wearing inappropriate winter clothing at Ataturk Airport on Tuesday night and deciding to investigate. But the decision proved to be almost fatal: his intervention caused the terrorist to begin the attack early, with his first target being the officer. According to Hurriyet, the officer texted his friend about the man after deciding he looked suspicious. 'He is walking around with a coat in this weather,' he wrote, adding: 'Brother, he looks like a robber, shall we follow him?' The three smiling suicide bombers are seen walking calmly together towards the airport, wearing heavy clothes with one carrying a bag One of the suicide bombers shoots a plain clothes police officer at point blank range - possibly the man now fighting for his life A woman cries as people start to gather at the airport on Thursday afternoon for a memorial service to remember those who lost their lives This is the first clear picture of the man Turkish media are claiming is one of the men who attacked the airport on Tuesday A second suicide bomber can be seen here, making his way through the terminal with what appears to be a gun One of the three terrorists that struck at Turkey's Ataturk Airport wields an AK-47 as he carries out his killing spree (left), while a man carries a wounded boy away from the airport (right) His friend encourages him, and the men call on back up. Unaware of the danger, they asked for ID, and the man bent down, pretending to look for it. When he stood back up, he was holding a gun, which he fires at the officers three time. The terrorist then ran downstairs, outside in front of international arrivals, where - near the taxi rank - he explodes at exactly 9.51pm. The officer, who is expecting his first child with his wife, is now fighting for his life in hospital. The story emerged at the same time as a still from airport CCTV showing one of the terrorists shooting a plain clothes policeman at point-blank range. An image of the three of them walking into the airport together has also been made public, while Turkish officials have revealed the men came from Russia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. It is thought there were eight other people involved in the terror plot. The attack came just a day after the Kremlin revealed it had received a letter of apology from president Recep Tayyip Erdogan after Turkey downed one of Russia's jets over Syria earlier this year. The CCTV image - which appears to show the killers grinning as they walk towards the building - matches those release yesterday, one of which shows the man in the centre walking alone into the airport, alongside an unsuspecting pilot. The man at the back was seen on other CCTV, gun in hand - apparently shooting indiscriminately at his innocent victims. In another clip, one of the men was seen being shot by a policeman, falling to the floor before igniting his explosives. A newly released video of the attack shows people fleeing in front of a gunman, clearing what appears to be the check in area before he appears in shot. The man then runs around a bit, apparently shooting at something, before dropping his gun. He picks it up, and then runs off back to where he has come from. It is unclear which bomber he was. By the time the final bomber detonated his suicide vest, the terrorists had killed dozens of people and injured hundreds. On Thursday, the death toll rose to 43. Photographs of victims displayed among carnations as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony Relatives mourn as they gather around the Turkish flag-draped coffin of Habibullah Sefer, killed in the co-ordinated attack on Ataturk The bombers have been revealed as coming from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. They struck just a day after Russia revealed Turkey had written to apologise for downing one of its jets. President Vladimir Putin (pictured today) called President Recep Erdogan to condemn the attacks An aerial view of the airport shows where the suicide bombers are believed to have detonated their explosives, close to the entrance to the international arrivals terminal The flat where the terrorists are alleged to have plotted their attack on Ataturk Airport. It is being investigated by police The flat had a steel door (left). Neighbours revealed strange smells used to emit from it, as well as clicks. The curtains were always shut The exact identities of the men remains unclear, but speaking today, an official said 'extensive soft-tissue' damage had complicated efforts to identify the attackers. 'A medical team is working around the clock to conclude the identification process,' he told journalists. As they continue to try to establish exactly who they were, Turkish police located an alleged terrorist hideout said to have been used by the cell to plot the airport atrocity. A woman who lives in the same apartment building said: 'There were strange smells. 'It was like a gas and it never went. We heard clicking sounds and we think whey were making bomb.' Three bombers used this flat - which had a steel door - in the Fatih suburb in the European part of Istanbul. According to reports, they paid a three month rent upfront for the apartment in the Ardic apartment building, where they kept the curtains and windows shut at all times - using air conditioning to keep cool during the Turkish summer. One woman claimed she went to see the local authorities amid suspicions over the new identities. She went to see a local official 'and asked him if he knew who they are. 'And the muhtar told me not to worry: 'We know everything'.' Bodies lie on the pavement outside Istanbul's international airport after explosions and gunfire shook the terminal People who had just arrived at the airport in Istanbul after the blasts were pictured running as they tried to flee the scene Desperate passengers embrace as they gather in shock outside the terminal after the airport was evacuated and all flights were grounded Experts have described the attack as being planned with precision which was akin to that of 'special forces'. Writing in the Daily Beast, Clive Irving noted: 'It was carried out in a way that suggests the kind of advance intelligence, careful study of a target, and cool execution that would normally be practised by Western special forces.' Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Wednesday that one of the attackers blew himself up outside, giving the other two the opportunity to get inside the building. He said: 'When the terrorists couldn't pass the regular security system, when they couldn't pass the scanners, police and security controls, they returned and took out their weapons out of their suitcases and opened fire at random at the security check. 'One blew himself up outside and the other two took advantage of the panic created during the shoot out and got inside and blew themselves up.' Friends and family carry the coffin of terror attack victim Mohammad Eymen Demirci on June 29, 2016 in Istanbul during his funeral The mother (centre) of air hostess Gulsen Bahadir killed in Tuesday night's attacks cries during her funeral in Istanbul on Wednesday ISIS have yet to claim responsibility for the attack, but Turkish officials say it carries all the hallmarks of the terror group - and is similar to the attack in Brussels. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner said: 'The lack of any immediate claim for this attack by so-called Islamic State is not surprising..(but) all the signs point towards them being the culprits.' Danish police have seized valuables from migrants for the first time since introducing a controversial new law aimed at making the country a less attractive destination for asylum seekers. National police spokesman Per Fiig said that two men and three women were carying dollars and euros worth 129,600 kroner (14,400). The cash was sezied and they were all arrested at Copenhagen's airport for using forged passports. The new law sees refugees and other migrants forced to hand over valuables worth more than 10,000 kroner (1,100), which is intended to help cover their housing and food costs The group, aged between 26 and 35 then all immediately sought asylum in Denmark. The new law sees refugees and other migrants forced to hand over valuables worth more than 10,000 kroner (1,100), which is intended to help cover their housing and food costs. The measures were passed by an overwhelming majority with the main centre-left opposition Social Democrats voting in favour as Denmark's political landscape shifts to the right thanks to the popularity of anti-immigrant Danish People's Party. However, the new law has been severely criticised by the United Nations as well as international media, where the measures have been compared to the treatment of Jews in Nazi Germany. Lawmakers in Copenhagen hope the bill will reduce the influx of migrants and help new arrivals of refugee status Denmark had previously been seen as more of a thoroughfare, with many migrants and refugees passing through on their way to Sweden. However, in December last year, the Swedish government introduced a cap on migrants and mandatory ID-checks on its borders, meaning more people have stayed in Denmark. Lawmakers in Copenhagen hope the bill will reduce the influx of migrants and help new arrivals of refugee status. However, wedding rings and other items of sentimental value will be exempt. The Danish government has defended the request that asylum seekers sell valuables and offer up cash, as the same rules apply for all Danish citizens who wish to qualify for social benefits. 'We are saying that if you want to come to Europe you should stay clear of Denmark,' said Martin Henriksen, a spokesman for the anti-immigration Danish People's Party. Critique: Migrants enter a train to Copenhagen from Flensburg, northern Germany, in November last year The new bill will also makes it harder for family members left behind to join asylum seekers in Denmark once they have been granted residency - even if they are refugees. Being a refugee - fleeing war but not individual prosecution - will not longer qualify for the highest form of protection status under Danish law, and they will have to wait three years instead of one year before applying for family reunifications. Once the application has been filed, the process can take years, and refugees would have to pay the transportation costs of family members they bring to the country. Astonishing footage shows two racing cars involved in a high-speed crash - with one ending up on top of the other. Barely 20 seconds into the Porsche Carrera Cup at Spain's Navarra race track, the two Porsches collided head-on, with one ending up rolling onto the other's roof. Dashcam video captures the moment Jules Gounon's car mounts the bonnet and drives up onto the roof of Joffrey de Narda's Carrera, leaving windows smashed and wheels spinning. The astonishing incident, which saw two Porsches collide head-on, took place at Spain's Navarra race track Jules Gounon's car mounted the bonnet of Joffrey de Narda's Carrera; neither was seriously injured An onlooker said: 'When a stuntman wants to do that, he can never pull it off!' The men, both French, were at the wheels of cars each worth around 220,000 ($300,000). The dramatic smash was also caught on camera by Geoffrey Dellus, who works for a TV production company in Toulouse, France. Dellus said: 'The drivers looked really surprised when they emerged from the cars. 'There were around 20 cars on the grid and luckily no one was hurt. 'It was incredible seeing it happen. When a stuntman wants to do that, he can never pull it off!' Although the incident took place in September last year, the footage has recently resurfaced on the internet. Theresa May declared she was the 'best person' to take on Angela Merkel and lead the country out of the EU as she launched her leadership bid on another dramatic day in British politics today. She became the clear front-runner to replace David Cameron as Prime Minister today after Boris Johnson sensationally quit the leadership contest. In a significant announcement, the Home Secretary pledged to abandon George Osborne's austerity agenda by saying she will no longer aim to reach a budget surplus by 2020 if she becomes PM. But at the same time she insisted her priority would be to avoid tax rises as it would disrupt the economy by hitting consumption, jobs and investment. In a robust speech this morning the Home Secretary - who was in favour of remaining in the EU but played a very low-key role during the campaign - said her experience of securing negotiations in Europe meant she would give Britain the best chance of securing a good deal with Brussels. She dismissed suggestions from Tory colleagues that a second referendum could be held at some point in the future as she declared: 'Brexit means Brexit'. Mrs May also ruled out the prospect of holding a general election before 2020 and ditched her plan to take Britain out of the European Convention on Human Rights. Theresa May (pictured) pledged to abandon George Osborne's austerity agenda as she launched her leadership bid this morning Theresa May is kissed by her husband Philip after delivering her pitch for the Tory leadership this morning With doubts among some in the party over whether a candidate who backed staying in the EU should be in charge of the long withdrawal process, Mrs May said in her speech in Whitehall, central London today: I want to use this opportunity to make several things clear. 'First, Brexit means Brexit. The campaign was fought, the vote was held, turnout was high, and the public gave their verdict. 'There must be no attempts to remain inside the EU, no attempts to rejoin it through the back door, and no second referendum. 'The country voted to leave the European Union, and it is the duty of the Government and of Parliament to make sure we do just that. The steely Home Secretary delivered her pitch for leadership just an hour before Boris Johnson made his shock announcement at midday that he will not stand in the Tory leadership contest. On yet another historic day in British politics, the former London mayor decided to drop out after his campaign manager Michael Gove resigned and declared he was running himself. The Justice Secretary is now Mrs May's main rival to become the next Tory leader and Prime Minister, with the final result set to be announced on September 9. Theresa May said her priority on economic policy would be to avoid any tax hikes as he launched her leadership bid this morning Theresa May delivered her pitch for leadership 90 minutes before Boris Johnson's dramatic announcement at midday that he will not stand in the Tory leadership contest (pictured after pulling out of the contest, above) Theresa May (pictured delivering he speech in Whitehall this morning) announced she would abandon George Osborne's deficit reduction plan if she succeeds in replacing David Cameron as Prime Minister On another historic day in British politics, the former London mayor Boris Johnson (pictured left, leaving his house this morning) decided to drop out after his campaign manager Michael Gove (pictured leaving his house this morning) sensationally quit and declared he was running himself The pair join a crowded field in the race and will face Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb, right-winger Liam Fox and fellow Brexit supporter and energy minister Andrea Leadsom. Mrs May barely had time to digest the news before her speech, which was littered with several barbs aimed at Mr Johnson - her main rival until Mr Gove's announcement changed everything. CHOOSING A PM: HOW THE CONSERVATIVE LEADERSHIP ELECTION WORKS David Cameron announced he is resigning as Prime Minister when he made his post-Brexit statement in the early hours of Friday morning alongside his wife Samantha The leadership election is a two-stage process - first Conservative MPs have their say, then members of the party all around the country are able to vote. If there are two or more candidates, all Tory MPs vote on who they prefer, with the bottom candidate in each round being eliminated until only two are left. The final two then make their pitch to members of the party in a straight head-to-head contest, with the winner determined by postal voting. The winner will be announced on September 9 and is likely to be appointed Prime Minister later that day. Only full members of the party who pay their 25 subscription are entitled to vote - unlike in Labour's leadership contest, where supporters could register for just 3. Advertisement Mr Gove said he had deserted his fellow Brexit champion because he could not 'provide the leadership of build the team for the task ahead' and Mrs May echoed him in questioning his credibility. She claimed he lacked the experience to serve as a Prime Minister in charge of negotiating Britain's exit from the EU. 'The last time he did a deal with the Germans he came back with three nearly new water canons,' she joked. Announcing her core economic priorities at her leadership launch this morning, she said: 'While it is absolutely vital that the Government continues with its intention to reduce public spending and cut the budget deficit, we should no longer seek to reduce [produce] budget surplus by the end of the Parliament. 'If before 2020 there is a choice between further spending cuts, more borrowing and tax rises, the priority must be to avoid tax increases since they would disrupt consumption, employment and investment.' Despite campaigning for Remain, the Home Secretary promised to take Britain out of the EU and curb the free movement of migrants. Mrs May said she would appoint a Cabinet Minister for Brexit who will be a Eurosceptic. She also argued that Article 50 - the formal mechanism for starting our exit from the EU - should not be triggered until the end of the year. 'We need leadership that can unite our party and our country. With the Labour Party tearing itself apart and divisive nationalists in Scotland and Wales , we need a government working in the best interests of the whole country, she said. 'We need a bold, new positive vision for the future of our country.' She also ruled out a snap general election: 'There should be no general election until 2020, there should be a normal Autumn Statement and no emergency Budget and there should be no decision to invoke Article 50 until the British negotiating strategy is agreed and clear, which means Article 50 will not be invoked until the end of this year.' A host of MPs declared their support for Theresa May on Twitter as she launched her leadership campaign this morning, including Sir Winston Churchill's grandson and former Boris Johnson backer Sir Nicholas Soames (top) and Cabinet ministers Justine Greening (second top) and David Mundell (third top). But some MPs reacted angrily to Mrs May's leadership bid, including Nadine Dorries, MP for Mid Bedfordshire, who questioned where the Home Secretary had been during the EU referendum campaign At the time of her speech Mr Johnson was still her main rival in the leadership race - it was only 90 minutes when he shocked Westminster by saying he was not the man to take the country forward. He came to the conclusion after a string of senior Tory MPs abandoned his leadership campaign and joined Mr Gove. But Mrs May came to her speech this morning clearly equipped to attack Mr Johnson and took several swipes at his credibility to be Prime Minister, saying politics was not a 'game' and contrasted his privileged upbringing with hers. She said Mr Johnson was out of touch with people from an 'ordinary working class family' and suggested that Mr Johnson failed to understand that Westminster was a 'serious business that has real consequences for people's lives'. But with Brexit negotiations set to dominate the Tory leadership race and the next two years of government, it was her attack on his diplomatic skills that will hurt Mr Johnson the most. Theresa May (pictured preparing to give her leadership speech in Whitehall, central London today) became the clear front-runner to replace David Cameron as Prime Minister today after Boris Johnson sensationally quit the leadership contest Theresa May was given a major boost after senior MPs such as Chris Grayling (right), the House of Commons Leader, backed her bid to replace David Cameron as Prime Minister Theresa May (pictured this morning) barely had time to digest the news before her speech, which was littered with several barbs aimed at Mr Johnson - her main rival before Mr Gove's sensational announcement Theresa May (pictured) delivered her pitch for leadership on another dramatic day in politics as Michael Gove quit as Boris Johnson's campaign manager and declared he was running for leader himself Asked whether she was the best person to negotiate Britain's withdrawal from the EU, she said: 'As to why I am the best person who can negotiate with Angela Merkel, well I would simply say this: I have done this, I have sat round the table, I know what it's like in those European meetings. CHANGE YOUR MIND, MICHAEL? Michael Gove has repeatedly ruled out standing for leader in recent weeks but today he declared he was standing to replace David Cameron as PM Michael Gove repeatedly ruled out standing before the leadership before announcing that he will stand today. Last month he said: 'I dont want to do it and there are people who are far better equipped than me to do it.' Two years ago he insisted: 'I dont have what it takes. Youve got to have that extra spark of star quality. David has it, George has it and Boris has it.' Advertisement 'I've not just done it, I've delivered on negotiations,' she added. 'Now of course, I know other people have also negotiated in Europe, I mean I think Boris negotiated in Europe I seem to remember last time he did a deal with the Germans he came back with three nearly new water canons,' she joked, joining the room in laughter.' In her speech today Mrs May also ditched her plan to withdraw Britain from the European Convention on Human Rights. She announced she would not push for the move because there is not a parliamentary majority in favour, saying: 'That is not something I'm going to pursue'. A host of MPs declared their support for Theresa May on Twitter as she launched her leadership campaign this morning, including Sir Winston Churchill's grandson and former Boris Johnson backer Sir Nicholas Soames. Her campaign was given a major boost after Cabinet ministers Chris Grayling, a Brexit backer, swung his support behind the Home Secretary. Scottish Secretary David Mundell and International Development Secretary Justine Greening also declared their support for Mrs May. But some MPs reacted angrily to Mrs May's leadership bid, including Nadine Dorries, MP for Mid Bedfordshire, who questioned where the Home Secretary had been during the EU referendum campaign. 'While Boris led from the front during the referendum campaign, travelled the country working 14 hrs [sic] a day, week after week, where was May?' Fellow Boris backer Sir Edward Garnier reacted to today's developments by saying he feels 'very angry... confused, let down and concerned'. He told the BBC: 'As I understand it, Michael Gove wanted to be head of the [EU] negotiating team or a senior cabinet job. Boris told him he was not picking his cabinet now.' He added: 'It just reminds me of student union politics. I can't be dealing with this and I think it's shameful. The father of notorious ISIS recruit Mohamed Elomar will stand trial for conspiring to send a million-dollar bribe to Iraq. The late terrorist's father Mamdouh Elomar, 62, his brother Ibrahim Elomar, 60, and businessman John Jousif, 46, were committed to a Supreme Court trial on Thursday. The men have been accused of conspiring to pay a $1million bribe to Iraqi officials to seal a business deal. Mamdouh Elomar (right) is the father of notorious ISIS militant Mohamed Elomar. Mamdouh's brother and co-accused Ibrahim Elomar is on the left Ibrahim Elomar (left), Mamdouh Elomar (right) and a third man allegedly conspired to bribe Iraqi officials to win building contracts The deal allegedly involved Sydney-based construction firm Lifese and an Iraqi government-linked company and took place in 2014. The prosecution argued in Wednesday's committal hearing that the arrangement would position Lifese to be the preferred bidder on Iraqi projects, including a Baghdad waste management facility. Mr Bradd said phone taps of the trio's conversations indicated prosecutors could successfully prove the money was sent to Iraq for illegitimate reasons. 'I believe there's a reasonable prospect a reasonable jury will convict the accused of an indictable offence,' Mr Bradd told the court on Thursday. 'I'm satisfied the evidence is sufficient.' The three men, who are on bail, will appear at the NSW Supreme Court for arraignment on August 4. They intend to fight the charges. It is alleged that the men conspired to pay $1million so their Sydney construction firm would be seen as 'preferred bidder' for Iraqi projects Mohamed Elomar gained international attention in 2013 when he snuck out of Australia to fight with Islamic State. He was later pictured posing with two severed heads. It is believed that Elomar was killed in a drone strike in Syria in June. A record number of British women were arrested on suspicion of terrorism in the past year, official figures revealed today. A total of 36 female terror suspects were held by the authorities during the 12 months up to the end of March, which is more than ever before. There was also a rising number of children being arrested by counter-terror police, with 14 under-18s detained in the year 2015/16, up from just eight a year before. Figures: This graph shows how more women (shown in dark purple) have been arrested on suspicion of terror offences in the past year Overall, there were 255 terrorism-related arrests, a decrease of 15 per cent compared to the previous year when there were a record 301. A Home Office report accompanying the data said: 'Although a fall on the previous year, the number of arrests in the year ending 31 March 2016 was still higher than most other recent years.' A number of women have been convicted of offences relating to the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria, with many either travelling to fight in the Middle East themselves or supporting their husbands who are out there. Tareena Shakil was jailed in February after a court heard she fled her home in Birmingham with her toddler son in order to support the Caliphate, and was pictured posing with ISIS paraphernalia. And last month Lorna Moore, a Muslim convert from an Ulster Protestant background, was convicted of plotting to join her jihadist husband in Syria with their three children. Jailed: Tareena Shakil took her young son to ISIS territory after becoming obsessed with extremist ideology Other female extremists to have joined ISIS have remained in the Middle East - for example, three East London schoolgirls who escaped to Syria last year are still believed to be living in the war zone. Since the year ending March 2011, around the time of the Arab Spring, there has been a 'general upward trend' in the number of arrests for terrorism-related offences, the Home Office said. Britain's official terror threat level for international terrorism currently stands at severe - indicating that an attack is seen as 'highly likely'. Convert: Lorna Moore was found guilty of plotting to join her jihadist husband fighting in Syria Earlier this year it was claimed that police and intelligence agencies have disrupted seven plots to attack the UK in the previous 18 months. The 36 female suspects held means they accounted for one in seven arrests over the period. All but two of the women arrested in the most recent year were considered to have links to international-related terrorism rather than domestic extremism, the Home Office report said. The statistics appear to chime with fears of increasing numbers of women and teenagers being drawn into extremism. Schoolgirls and young families are among those feared to have fled the UK to join ISIS. Arrests in the international and 'domestic' categories both fell, down from 217 to 212 and from 32 to 10 respectively, while the Northern Ireland-related tally was up from three to six. The overall fall in the number of arrests was driven by a dip in arrests of people from white ethnic groups, which was down by a quarter from 88 to 66, and black ethnic groups, which nearly halved from 49 to 25 arrests. Arrests of those from Asian ethnic groups, which made up more than half of all arrests in the year ending in March, remained relatively stable, the report said. Over three quarters of those held were British or had British dual nationality. Oklahoma City Fire crews were forced to scale a roller coaster to rescue eight riders when it stalled 100ft in the air. The emergency response was called to Frontier City on Wednesday afternoon when the cart on the Silver Bullet ride got stuck. Eight people were on board at the time as the wheeled carriage became jammed at the peak of its first - and main - drop. Oklahoma City Fire crews were forced to scale a roller coaster to rescue eight riders when it stalled 100ft in the air The emergency response was called to Frontier City on Wednesday afternoon when the cart on the Silver Bullet ride got stuck Most of them were children aged between the ages of seven and 14. They were stranded for roughly an hour as the fire crew made it to the scene and then slowly climbed the roller coaster's side staircase. Everyone was rescued and no-one was injured during the incident. Frontier City released a statement following the successful recovery of all eight riders. It read: 'At approximately 4.20pm, the train on the Silver Bullet roller coaster at Frontier City stalled on the lift. 'Due to the position of the stalled train, the back half of the cars were able to be evacuated by park personnel. The fire department had to be called to evacuate the guests in the front cars. Frontier City is the only theme park in Oklahoma after the 2006 closing of Bell's Amusement Park. The park is the subject of the song 'Frontier City' by the Nashville band Kings of Leon, as drummer Nathan Followill once worked there 'Guest safety is Frontier City's top priority. As soon as each guest has been evacuated from the Silver Bullet, a thorough investigation into the reason the ride stalled will take place.' Frontier City is the only theme park in Oklahoma after the 2006 closing of Bell's Amusement Park. The 'monster' has been 'spotted' more than 1,000 times in 1,500 years But they are believed to be an elaborate hoax being filmed for television They include detailed skeletal frame and skull as well as internal organs What appeared to be remains of mysterious creature show up on shore Nessie hunters have been left scratching their heads after a dog walker found what appears to be the remains of the legendary 'monster' washed up on a beach. These grisly remains were found on the shore of Loch Ness in Scotland, blocked off by police tape. The scene appears to be a highly elaborate prank by someone who has managed to create a lifelike skeleton frame and organs of the legendary beast, complete with sharp-toothed skull. Scroll down for video These grizzly 'remains' of a giant sea creature were found on the shore of Loch Ness, prompting questions over whether Nessie was dead The 'body' is highly detailed down to the skull, pictured, which features a range of sharp teeth, a long skeletal neck internal organs Nessie has been 'spotted' more than 1,000 times in 1,500 years, including this famous image taken in 1934 that was eventually revealed to be a hoax The images were posted on Facebook by animal charity Help2Rehome Scotland - who asked the public whether they believed the remains were the real deal. Responses were split between the serious Nessie fans and those who saw it as a bit of fun. Charley Slaven said: 'If it was nessie washed up I'm pretty sure the bones wouldn't b (sic) intact they would b (sic) broken up duh obviously either a prank or for a TV programme to to b (sic) placed like that.' Catherine McGovern Mccracken added: 'Clearly some butcher needed more room in his bins lol (sic).' But it appears the scene, pictured, is an elaborate hoax that is being filmed for television There were also witty suggestions that Nessie's 'demise' was a result of the Brexit result of the EU referendum. A Facebook user called Dutch Rider said: 'Maybe Nessie doesn`t want to leave the UK either and has just gave up (sic).' The charity eventually revealed the heavily detailed remains were actually put together for a television show. Sightings of the Loch Ness Monster were at their highest in more than a decade last year with five eye witnesses accounts of the mythical creature registered. Gary Campbell, keeper of the Official Loch Ness Monster Sightings Register, said 2015 was a 'vintage' year for Nessie reports in Scotland. It has now accepted five sightings for the year - the most in 13 years. According to Google, there are around 200,000 searches each month for the Loch Ness Monster, and around 120,000 for information and accommodation close to Loch Ness. The monster mystery is said to be worth 30m to the region. Mr Campbell believes that Nessie is most likely a fish or eel. The chartered accountant, based in Inverness, has been logging Nessie sightings for 19 years. Among the most famous claimed sightings is a photograph taken in 1934 by Colonel Robert Kenneth Wilson It was later exposed as a hoax by one of the participants, Chris Spurling, who, on his deathbed, revealed that the pictures were staged. Other sightings James Gray's picture from 2001 when he and friend Peter Levings were out fishing on the Loch, while namesake Hugh Gray's blurred photo of what appears to be a large sea creature was published in the Daily Express in 1933. The first reported sighting of the monster is said to have been made in 565AD by the Irish missionary St Columba when he came across a giant beast in the River Ness. But no one has ever come up with a satisfactory explanation for the sightings - although last year 'Nessie expert' Steve Feltham, who has spent 24 years watching the Loch, said he thought it was actually a giant Wels Catfish, native to waters near the Baltic and Caspian seas in Europe. The charity eventually confirmed the remains were actually part of filming for a television show Locals also took to Facebook to confirm it was not really Nessie and that film crews had been seen in the area A 26-year-old mother of three who was working toward providing a great future for her children died in a car crash. Bae Karl-Perry, from Mt Baker, west of Adelaide, was having an 'adventure day' with her partner, Alex Vickers, and their two smallest children three-year-old Bailey and one-year-old Julian on June 21 when they were in a serious accident with another car, according to The Advertiser. Ms Karl-Perry died in the collision and Mr Vickers is recovering from serious injuries at the Royal Adelaide Hospital. Bae Karl-Perry (pictured), a 26-year-old mother of three from Adelaide who was working toward providing a great future for her children, died last week in a serious car accident Just two days prior Ms Karl-Perry received her business diploma and got a new haircut (pictured) for a more professional look while she hunted for a job Their two children are unharmed and their eldest son, four-year-old Lucas, was at kindergarten at the time. Ms Karl-Perry's mum, Monica Karl, told The Advertiser that her daughter had received her business diploma from TAFE just two days before the tragic accident and her family was going to start a new chapter of their lives. She was looking for a job and had just had her haircut short for a more professional look, Ms Karl said of her daughter. She was having an 'adventure day' with her partner, Alex Vickers, and their two smallest children - three-year-old Bailey and one-year-old Julian - when the accident occurred Their two children are unharmed and their eldest son, four-year-old Lucas, was at kindergarten at the time 'It was all starting to fit into place, she was so happy with how things were and everything was just right. Then it ended.' Ms Karl said her daughter would often take her children out for 'adventure days' and drive around and stop at different parks or show them new places. 'She wanted to expose her kids to life. That's what she wanted for her kids to expose them to the world.' 'Bae lived for her kids, they were her life and she's left a beautiful legacy,' her mother said. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Ms Karl-Perry's family and has raised almost half of a $5,000 goal. he would fight his pursuit charges, court heard on Thursday Kayirici allegedly failed to stop car for police in Bondi on Saturday A 26-year-old man accused of the kidnap and rape of a 13-year-old girl at knifepoint before he allegedly led police on a high-speed car chase said he would fight the pursuit charges against him. On Saturday Mustafa Kayirici was arrested in Bondi, Sydney after he allegedly failed to stop and led police on a car chase before crashing into a parked car. He indicated through his lawyer he would fight the pursuit charges, Central Local Court heard on Thursday morning. Scroll down for video Mustafa Kayirici (pictured), 26, accused of the kidnap and rape of a 13-year-old girl at knifepoint before he allegedly led police on a high-speed car chase said he would fight some of the charges against him A 26-year-old man (pictured covered in blood) has been charged over two violent sexual assaults in Sydney Officers pointed their guns at the suspect after he crashed into a parked car on Old South Head Road These charges will be heard in Waverley Local Court in August, The Daily Telegraph reported. Mr Kayirici did not enter a plea into the alleged sexual assault of a 22-year-old woman, robbery and the kidnap and sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl. His bail was formally refused and the case will front the court again on August 9. This comes after Mr Kayirici chose to represent himself in Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday and claimed to have 'dirty' videos of the teenager consenting to have sex with him several times, according to The Daily Telegraph. Police had been searching for the Sydney man since he allegedly sexually assaulted and robbed a 22-year-old woman he met through an escort agency on June 19. On Friday morning, the 13-year-old girl was allegedly kidnapped in Parramatta and sexually assaulted at various locations around south-west Sydney. The man led police on a high-speed chase before crashing through a parked car and stopping at a bus stop Appearing at Parramatta Bail Court via video link on Sunday, Kayirici was refused bail. 'They're making out I'm an evil person, like I'm a paedophile rapist predator,' he claimed to court, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. 'I'm all over the news and it's wrong.' Kayirici told the court he films the women he has sex with to prove they consent and claims to have multiple videos on his phone. Officers from Parramatta Local Area Command and the Sex Crimes Squad had been assisting to locate him following the alleged assault of the 22-year-old woman. Following these inquiries, officers attempted to stop a silver Ford sedan on Bondi Road in Bondi, east of Sydney, shortly after 11.30am on Saturday. Officers tried to stop a silver Ford sedan in Bondi on Saturday morning before leading them on a pursuit When the man allegedly failed to stop, he led police through the area before crashing into a parked vehicle on Old South Head Road. Witnesses said he then ploughed through a footpath before coming to a halt when the vehicle was wedged between a brick fence and bus stop. 'There were about four police cars behind him and police coming the other way. Without any exaggeration, there were 15 police cars here in about one minute,' the witness told Fairfax Media. 'The police were attempting to remove him from the car and he was putting up one hell of a fight against 20 police.' The US Air Force has rejected calls to ditch gender-specific job titles such as 'airman' despite similar agreed changes in the Navy and the Marines. In January, the secretary of the navy Ray Mabus ordered a review of 'sexist' names which has seen the historic change. Defence Secretary Ash Carter ordered the military in December to open up all combat roles - including elite special forces teams - to women, prompting the name review. Scroll down for video The US Air Force has rejected plans to make all job titles such as airman gender neutral US Defense Secretary Ash Carter, pictured, has opened up all combat roles to women for the first time The US Marine Corps is dropping man from many roles - although infantryman is likely to remain However, according to Stars and Stripes, the Air Force has rejected changing job titles such as 'airman'. Chief Master Sergeant Erika Schofield, based at Ramstein said: 'It should be left as it is now; its part of our tradition. Using man in our titles isnt gender-specific in our career fields.' She was supported by senior airman Julia Liggio who said: 'Ive been called an airman my entire enlistment, and its never bothered me in any way.' Another female airman was firmly against any potential change : 'Dumb is the only way I can describe it. Dont they have anything smarter to do with their time?' Over in the Navy and the Marines, an engineman could be called an engine technician and a yeoman could be called an administrative specialist. Mabus said: 'This is one more step in how our force has changed. Our force has evolved, our force is different. And I believe it's stronger and better. 'In the overall scheme, it's a small thing, but I think it's important because it's what sailors and Marines call each other, and words do matter.' Mabus, who is reviewing the services' recommendations now, said the Navy and Marines will announce changes this summer. Some iconic titles will stay the same, and others will change to make the jobs easier to understand outside of the military, which will help when sailors and Marines are looking for civilian jobs, he added. For example, few civilians know what a hospital corpsman does, Mabus said. A corpsman could be called a medic or an emergency medical technician, much like 'messman' was previously changed to culinary specialist, he added. A female yeoman told a senior Navy official that 'administrative specialist' would be a better title than yeoman, Mabus said. Lory Manning, a retired Navy captain, said that there are fairly easy substitutes for many of the titles, and that they should be brought up to date. 'It's time for us to let go of telling women, "You're just included. We don't call you out by sex, but just know you're part of mankind." When you hear that "man" at the end, the image is a male image.' Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn sparked a new row at an anti-Semitism even when he appeared to compare the state of Israel with the murderous terrorists of ISIS. He was slammed by the serving and former chief rabbis for saying: 'Our Jewish friends are no more responsible for the actions of Israel or the Netanyahu Government than our Muslim friends are for those of various self-styled Islamic states or organisations.' His team later claimed he was referring to countries such as Pakistan, Iran and Saudi Arabia. But Jewish religious leaders did not accept the claim. Chief rabbi Ephraim Mirvis told the Times the comments were offensive 'however they were intended'. And former chief rabbi Jonathan Sacks told the paper: Jeremy Corbyns comparison of the state of Israel to Isis is demonisation of the highest order, an outrage and unacceptable. 'That this occurred at the launch of the report into the Labour Partys recent troubles with antisemitism shows how deep the sickness is in parts of the left of British politics today.' Ruth Smeeth walked out of Labour's anti-Semitism event today after being heckled by a man said to be a Momentum activist Ms Smeeth walked out of the event in tears today after Marc Wadsworth accused of working 'hand in hand' with a right wing newspaper And a Jewish Labour MP demanded Mr Corbyn resign over his 'catastrophic' failure of leadership after he watched silently as one of his supporters heckled her. Ruth Smeeth said she had made a formal complaint about the Labour leader's actions at the launch of the anti-Semitism report when she was shouted at by a Momentum activist. Ms Smeeth walked out of the event in tears after Marc Wadsworth accused her of working 'hand in hand' with a right wing newspaper. The Stoke on Trent North MP today said Mr Corbyn's 'failure to intervene is final proof that he is unfit to lead'. Wes Streeting, one of Labour's newest MPs, today said the event showed Mr Corbyn had lost any 'moral authority' as Labour leader and told MailOnline it was further proof he should quit. Ms Chakrabarti's report made as its first recommendation that racial epithets such as 'z**' or 'p***' should have 'no place in Labour Party discourse' going forward and also recommended Labour members avoid using Adolf Hitler metaphors. Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis (right) welcomed the new Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (left), to a Holocaust Remembrance Day event recently but he said today Mr Corbyn's comments were offensive 'however they were intended' The inquiry was ordered after ex-Mayor of London Ken Livingstone launched a rant about Hitler on TV and radio a week before the local elections. Ms Smeeth accused Mr Wadsworth of using 'traditional anti-Semitic slurs' and said it was 'beyond belief' the incident occurred at an anti-Semitism event. She said: 'People like this have no place in our party or our movement and must be opposed. 'Until today I had made no public comment about Jeremy's ability to lead our party, but the fact that he failed to intervene is final proof for me that he is unfit to lead, and that a Labour Party under his stewardship cannot be a safe space for British Jews. 'I have written to the General Secretary of the Labour Party and the Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party to formally complain about this morning's events.' 'No-one from the Leader's office has contacted me since the event, which is itself a catastrophic failure of leadership. 'I call on Jeremy Corbyn to resign immediately and make way for someone with the backbone to confront racism and anti-Semitism in our party and in the country.' Ms Smeeth later praised Ms Chakrabarti for meeting her in Parliament to apologise for what happened at the press conference. Labour MP Wes Streeting told MailOnline he was 'disgusted' by events at this morning's launch. He said: 'I don't think Jeremy Corbyn could have done any more harm this morning than he did if he tried. 'To stand by silently while a Jewish Labour MP is abused by a Momentum activist, accusing her of collaborating with the Telegraph it was repulsive. 'In addition to all of the other questions about his competence to lead the Labour Party, I'm afraid he has lost any moral authority. 'I'm beyond the idea that Jeremy Corbyn is a kind and decent man there is no longer any evidence to justify that. 'He should go immediately. If he does not, there will be a single challenger.' Labour MP Anna Turley said: 'You were there & did nothing Jeremy Corbyn. Please. I am begging you. Enough.' Mr Corbyn, who published the report alongside its author Shami Chakrabarti today, was accused of a 'catastrophic' failure of leadership Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, pictured at today's launch, said 'racism is racism racism' before making a controversial comparison between the Israeli government and ISIS But it was Mr Corbyn's comments surrounding 'self-styled Islamic states' which caused the greatest uproar. In his speech he said: 'Nor should Muslims be regarded as sexist, anti-Semitic or otherwise suspect, as has become an ugly Islamophobic norm. 'We judge people on their individual values and actions, not en masse.' Taking questions after the speech Mr Corbyn said he was 'of course' not comparing the Israeli government to ISIS. But Luke Akehurst, director of We Believe In Israel was critical of the remarks. He said: 'I think it's really unfortunate that at an event with a very considered report being released and in a speech where he otherwise made some very good points, that he chose to form a sentence in a way that appeared to compare anything the state of Israel has done to anything that IS has done, and then did not clarify this in questioning. 'If this was deliberate, it's incredibly inflammatory and offensive, and if it wasn't, he needs to apologise as quickly as possible.' Jonathan Sacerdoti, Director of Communications at Campaign Against Anti-Semitism said: 'Apart from imploring Labour activists to stop calling Jews 'Zios' or accusing them of supporting Nazi policies, this Inquiry is a vague, meaningless whitewash that will do nothing to rid Labour of antisemitism or address the total absence of leadership it has shown on this issue. 'For Jeremy Corbyn to compare Israel to ISIS during his event dedicated to antisemitism only goes to show just how little grasp he has of this pressing problem for his party.' Wembley Labour councillor Sam Stopp tweeted: 'Jeremy Corbyn has compared Israel to ISIS today. 'For that alone, he should resign. I am red with fury.' Labour MP Wes Streeting today told MailOnline he was 'disgusted' by events at the anti-Semitism launch where Ruth Smeeth, right, was heckled before she walked out Mr Streeting took his protest at Mr Corbyn's inaction to Twitter this afternoon, telling the beleaguered Labour leader his 'words are hollow' Ms Chakrabarti's report made as its first recommendation that racial epithets such as 'z**' or 'p***' should have 'no place in Labour Party discourse' going forward. And she said stereotypes based on race or religion should have 'no place in our modern Labour Party'. She added: 'Labour members should resist the use of Hitler, Nazi and Holocaust metaphors, distortions and comparisons in debates about the Israel-Palestine in particular.' Mr Corbyn ordered the review last month after ex-London Mayor Ken Livingstone exploded an anti-Semitism storm by ranting on TV and radio about how Hiter 'supported Zionism' before he 'went mad and killed six million Jews'. Mr Livingstone, who made his remarks in an attempted defence of Bradford MP Naz Shah after she was suspended for anti-Semitism, triggered a major media storm that led to a series of other suspensions and forced the inquiry to be launched. Mr Livingstone is currently facing a Labour Party investigation into his comments. Shami Chakrabarti, left with Mr Corbyn today, carried out the report into anti-Semitism within the Labour Party And Mr Corbyn said today: 'Under my leadership, the Labour Party will not allow hateful language or debate, in person, online or anywhere else. 'We will aim to set the gold standard, not just for anti-racism, but for a genuinely welcoming environment for all communities and for the right to disagreement as well. 'Racism is racism is racism. There is no hierarchy - no acceptable form of it. I have always fought it in all its forms and I always will. 'But while we respond to hate with universal principles we must also remember people's particular experience, if we are too ensure that not one person feels vulnerable or excluded from their natural political home. 'The Jewish community has made an enormous contribution to our Party and our country Jewish people have been at the heart of progressive and radical politics in Britain, as elsewhere, for well over a century. 'But they are also a minority amongst minorities and have had good cause to feel vulnerable and even threatened throughout history. This should never happen by accident or design in our Labour Party. 'Modern anti-Semitism may not always be about overt violence and persecution, though there is too much of that even to this day. 'We must also be vigilant against subtler and invidious manifestations of this nasty ancient hatred and avoid slipping into its traps by accident or intent.' Former London mayor Ken Livingstone triggered a major anti-Semitism row a week before the May elections with a series of TV and radio rants about Adolf Hitler In her inquiry foreword Ms Chakrabarti said Labour 'is not overrun by anti-Semitism'. But she warned: 'However, as with wider society, there is too much clear evidence (going back some years) of minority hateful or ignorant attitudes and behaviours festering within a sometimes bitter incivility of discourse. 'This has no place in a modern democratic socialist party that puts equality, inclusion and human rights at its heart. 'Moreover, I have heard too many Jewish voices express concern that anti-Semitism has not been taken seriously enough in the Labour Party and broader Left for some years.' She added: 'An occasionally toxic atmosphere is in danger of shutting down free speech within the Party rather than facilitating it, and is understandably utilised by its opponents. 'It is completely counter-productive to the Labour cause, let alone to the interests of frightened and dispossessed people, whether at home or abroad.' Oliver Dowden MP said: 'This is looking more and more like a whitewash. 'Labour can't just bury their heads in the sand because they don't like what they might find. Advertisement Thousands of Britons came together this morning to pay a silent tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago. Veterans, servicemen and members of the public gathered across the country to observe two minutes' silence, marking the moment whistles were blown and some 120,000 men went 'over the top' on the first day of the battle - the bloodiest single day in British military history. Pipes played out over the Lochnagar crater near the French village of La Boiselle, which marks the site where a mine was detonated in the first hours of the campaign. Paper poppy petals were released into the crater, representing the thousands who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Commemorations started last night with a moving service at Westminster Abbey that was attended by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. The Queen then took the first post in an overnight vigil held at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, honouring the unknown dead of the First World War. In France, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were joined by Prince Harry for a vigil at the Thiepval Memorial, where the 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers with no known grave are commemorated. Today they will be joined by the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, David Cameron and French president Francois Hollande for a service of remembrance. Scroll down for videos The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery fire First World War guns in Parliament Square, London, to mark two minutes' silence as thousands of Britons came together this morning to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were joined by Prince Harry as they attended a vigil at the Thiepval Memorial in France last night. Today they will attend a service of remembrance at the memorial alongside the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, and David Cameron Commemorations started last night with a service at Westminster Abbey, attended by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. Today thousands came together for two minutes' silence. Left, a man with military medals lowers his head as he pays his respects in York The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery rode through the streets of Westminster before firing First World War guns in Parliament Square Veterans, servicemen and members of the public gathered to pay their respects at Parliament Square this morning The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillerymanned three sets of guns and fired every four seconds for 100 seconds to mark the silence The soldiers marched through Westminster after firing the guns in Parliament Square as the nation came together to remember the fallen Members of the London Fire Brigade removed their helmets as they joined thousands of Britons in marking the start of the battle Military personnel stand watch over the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, marking the end of an overnight vigil in memory of those who died A piper plays at the close of the vigil at Westminster Abbey, where the Queen took the first shift following a service last night Wimbledon ground staff lowered their heads as they marked the two minutes' silence in memory of the thousands who died On July 1, 1916, following a seven-day British bombardment, British, French and Commonwealth troops were sent into a battle that many believed would herald the end of the First World War. But those men who bravely clambered from the trenches were met with a hail of German machine-gun fire that mowed down half of them. With 20,000 dead and 40,000 wounded, it was the bloodiest single day in British military history. By the end of the four-month battle, more than a million soldiers on both sides had been killed and wounded. Their sacrifice is remembered with moving services in France and Britain. Crowds gathered in Parliament Square this morning to observe the two-minute silence. People huddled under trees and umbrellas paused from their commutes to stand quietly. The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, who were at Thiepval on Thursday night, manned three sets of guns, drawn into place by horses, and fired every four seconds for 100 seconds to mark the silence. At the end of the two minutes, whistles were blown - as they would have been to signal the start of the battle - and Big Ben chimed, though many still continued to pause in reflection. In Edinburgh, a two-minute silence was held at Scotland's National War Memorial, with descendants of some of those who died at the Somme in attendance. Services were also held in Cardiff, York and Salisbury. Today the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall will travel to France to join the Cambridges and Prince Harry in Thiepval for a service of commemoration. Prime Minister David Cameron and French president Francois Hollande will also attend, along with 10,000 members of the public, including hundreds of schoolchildren, chosen by ballot. Three biplanes will soar over the memorial to mark the role the aircraft played in the battle. Two Bleriot Experimental (BE) 2s and a German Albatross DVa fighter from the WW1 Aviation Heritage Trust (WAHT) flew to France from England to pay tribute to those on all sides who died. Charles and Camilla will then attend other ceremonies for Northern Irish and Canadian victims of the battle at the nearby Ulster Tower and Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, respectively. Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers will attend the Ulster Tower ceremony. The Duchess of Cornwall will also lay a wreath at the grave of her great-uncle, Captain Harry Cubitt, who was killed on the Somme in September 1916 while serving with the Coldstream Guards. Last night the Duke of Cambridge paid tribute to the soldiers killed in the battle, saying 'we lost the flower of a generation'. He was joined by the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry for the event ahead of Friday's 100th anniversary of the start of the battle, which lasted 141 days and claimed hundreds of thousands of British, French and German lives. Scottish soldiers observe two minutes' silence near the Lochnagar Crater, near the French village of La Boiselle Hundreds of people gathered on the rim of the Lochnagar Crater in France, where a mine was detonated on the first day of the battle Hundreds of people observed two minutes' silence at the crater, which marked one of the first attacks of the battle A Scottish soldier looks overcome with emotions as he pays tributes to the thousands who died in battle at the Lochnagar Crater Graves of unidentified soldiers stand amid flowers at the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme, where services will be held Scottish bagpipers in kilts gather near the Lochnagar Crater, where hundreds observed a two minutes' silence in memory of the fallen Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, left, and Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, right, arrive at the service at the Thiepval Memorial today The Thiepval Memorial in northern France was lit up this morning as an overnight vigil in honour of those who died came to an end (seen centre, soldiers standing guard). The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry will attend a service at the memorial today In an address written by Birdsong novelist Sebastian Faulks, William highlighted the almost 60,000 British and Commonwealth casualties of July 1 1916, the bloodiest day in the history of the British Army. William told the assembled guests: 'We lost the flower of a generation; and in the years to come it sometimes seemed that with them a sense of vital optimism had disappeared forever from British life. CAMILLA'S PERSONAL TRAGEDY The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall will travel to France to take part in a service of commemoration at the Thiepval memorial today. Camilla will lay a wreath at the grave of her great-uncle, Captain Harry Cubitt, who was killed on the Somme in September 1916 while serving with the Coldstream Guards. He was the eldest, and the first, to die of three brothers killed serving on the Western Front. Advertisement 'It was in many ways the saddest day in the long story of our nation. 'Tonight we think of them as they nerved themselves for what lay ahead. We acknowledge the failures of European governments, including our own, to prevent the catastrophe of world war.' At Westminster Abbey, the Queen and Prince Philip attended a service. They were joined by politicians from all parties, including embattled Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and David Cameron, who attended with his wife Samantha. Welsh Guardsman Lance Sergeant Stuart Laing, 39, sounded the moving tune from the Lantern Tower - the first time music had been performed from the eaves of the Abbey. The soldier, who spent eight weeks practising with the 101-year-old instrument, said later: 'It was an enormous privilege to be the person to sound the Last Post on the eve of the 100th anniversary. I'm very proud to have been chosen and I'm bursting with pride.' Sergeant Rob Porteous, of 167 Catering Support Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps, will take up his place in the vigil in the early hours of Friday morning. A lone serviceman walks through graves at the Thiepval Memorial, which were lit up last night in a tribute to those who died at the Battle of the Somme. The memorial in northern France commemorates the 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers with no known grave Prince Harry, the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke of Cambridge watch on as a service is played out in Thiepval, France The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with Prince Harry, attend part of a military-led vigil to commemorate the anniversary Soldiers take part in a vigil at the the Stone of Remembrance as part of the Commemoration of the Centenary of the Battle of the Somme Chelsea Pensioners were among those who took part in a military-led vigil at the Thiepval Memorial in northern France last night The moving services come on the eve of the centenary of the start of the Somme offensive. On July 1, 1916, following a seven-day British bombardment, some 120,000 men clambered from their trenches and went 'over the top' The Duchess of Cambridge listens carefully during a memorial service in France, while similar events were held across the Channel Military personnel read extracts from letters during part of a military-led vigil to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme Chelsea Pensioner Paul Whittick, left, looks at war graves during part of a military-led vigil to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme at Thiepval, pictured right The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry were on hand to lead tributes to those who lost their lives at the Battle of the Somme The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall will today travel to France to join the Cambridges and Prince Harry in Thiepval for a service of commemoration, following last night's ceremony (pictured) Soldiers take part in a vigil at the the Stone of Remembrance at Thiepval, which reads: 'Their name liveth for evermore' His great-grandfather George Taylor was a sergeant with the Tyneside Scottish regiment - one of the 'pals' units that featured friends that joined up together. Sgt Porteous said: 'My great-grandfather was a working man in the coal pits who was called up to do something extraordinary and after the war went back to his ordinary life down the pit. 'That's amazing what he did for democracy and peace in Europe.' At the end of the service the Queen symbolically touched a wreath that was placed at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and the first watch took up its place for the overnight vigil. The final watch around the grave started at 7.15am and just over 15 minutes later - at the moment the whistles blew to signal the start of the battle - a trench whistle was blown in the Abbey before a short service. Speaking on the overnight vigil at the grave, the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, said: 'The Battle of the Somme is remembered as one of the most devastating of the First World War. The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh led a vigil at the Grave of the Unknown Solider at Westminster Abbey following a service last night The Queen lays a wreath made of roses and bay leaves on the Grave of the Unknown Warrior at the Westminster Abbey vigil Five civilians and five members of the military undertake a Vigil at Grave of the Unknown Warrior inside Westminster Abbey The Queen and Prince Philip were among the dignitaries to attend the ceremony at Westminster Abbey, along with several politicians A vigil is held by military and civilian personnel at The Grave of the Unknown Warrior inside the Westminster Abbey, pictured Guardsmen from the Coldstream Guards, Irish Guards,Grenadier Guards and the Scots Guards take the last shift of the vigil over the Grave of the Unknown Warrior at Westminster Abbey, left. Right, Lance Corporal Richie Spence from the Irish Guards leavs Westminster Abbey Members of the Clergy leaving Westminster Abbey at the end the evening service to commemorate 100 years since the Battle of the Somme 'The sacrifice of many thousands of lives in a battle which ultimately failed to achieve any serious breakthrough stands as a reminder of the suffering and loss involved in the First World War. 'As we imagine the feelings of those preparing for battle, the vigil will allow us to reflect on the cruel effects of warfare and to pray for lasting peace and justice in the world. All will be welcome.' An overnight vigil was also held at the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle. Prayers were said at the vigil before candles were taken inside the war memorial and placed on a casket containing the original Roll of Honour for the fallen of the First World War. The candles were guarded overnight by representatives from units including the Wrens, the Royal Navy and several Scottish Army regiments, standing by the casket with their heads bowed. Edinburgh Castle was also floodlit red to mark the anniversary. As in England, the end of the tribute was marked with two minutes' silence. It was ended by Alan Hamilton, who blew the Army whistle passed down to him by his great-uncle. Mr Hamilton said: 'My great-uncle Robert Hamilton was an artillery officer at the battle. He was attached to a Scottish unit as an observation officer and he blew this whistle on July 1 at 7.30am 100 years ago to take his men over the top into action. Speakers amongst the war graves during part of a military-led vigil paying respect to those who lost their lives a hundred years ago The Thiepval Memorial, which commemorates those who died at the Battle of the Somme. By the end of the four-month battle in northern France, more than a million soldiers had been killed and wounded on both sides Prince William and his wife Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, play their part as part of the international commemorations Prince Harry prepares to make a speech during the commemoration service in France, where he was joined by his brother William In France, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were joined by Prince Harry for a vigil at the Thiepval Memorial as part of commemorations Catherine and the Royal family are leading Britain and France in commemorating the thousands of troops who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago The three Royals look out over the Thiepval Memorial, which is dedicated to the 72,246 missing British and South African servicemen Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, is joined by her husband Prince William and Prince Harry in France for one of several events taking place to commemorate the Battle of the Somme THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME: WHY WERE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF SOLDIERS SENT TO THEIR DEATHS? The Battle of the Somme took place North of the River Somme in France from July 1 to November 13, 1916 Synonymous for the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of men, the Battle of the Somme was one of the most controversial conflicts of the First World War. The battle took place North of the River Somme in France from July 1 to November 13, 1916. On the first day alone British forces suffered casualties of 40,000 and deaths of 20,000, with 60 per cent of all of those killed being officers. Designed to relieve pressure on French forces at Verdun, the Battle was the mastermind of General Douglas Haig and involved 750,000 British soldiers across 27 divisions. By the end of the bloody and brutal battle Allied forces had managed to capture only six miles of land. The British suffered 429,000 casualties, the French suffered 195,000 and the Germans 650,000. Prior to the battle the British bombarded German lines with 1.6 million shells in an effort to weaken their resolve, but the Germans were heavily fortified and many of the shells did not go off. Haig, unaware of his bombardment's failure, was so confident in his tactics that he ordered his men to walk across the battlefield. As a result many were tragically mowed down by machine gun fire as soon as they left their trench. The general's tactics remain controversial to this day with military historians, soldiers and biographers conflicted over whether his decisions were necessary or foolhardy. Advertisement 'He went forward with the regiment and, because of the high rate of casualties among the officers, he ended up commanding the regiment until he was wounded and evacuated. 'After the war, my father was given the whistle by uncle Robert and he then carried it through the whole of the Second World War when he was in the RAF, and when I joined the Army he passed it on to me. I carried it for 41 years and my son, who is a corporal in the Army, will be getting the whistle once these commemorations are over.' Speaking on the commemorations yesterday, Prime Minister David Cameron said: 'Today is a chance to reflect on the sacrifice not just of the thousands of British and Commonwealth troops who gave their lives, but of the men on all sides who did not return home. 'It is an opportunity to think about the impact of the devastation felt by communities across all of the nations involved, which left mothers without sons, wives without husbands and children without fathers. 'The young men who left our shores believed in the cause for which they fought and we honour their memory. But today is also a chance to stand as friends with the representatives of all the countries who are here today. 'This event and the Thiepval monument itself bear testament to a solemn pledge those who died here will never be forgotten.' The Queen arrives at Westminster Abbey ahead of the service commemorating those who died at the Battle of the Somme, along with Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha Cameron Jeremy Corbyn is among those in attendance at the memorial service, in honour of those killed in one of the bloodiest battles in history David Cameron and his wife Samantha attend a service on the centenary of the Battle of the Somme at Westminster Abbey in London British Prime Minister David Cameron speaks with his wife Samantha Cameron as they wait for the start of the service Leader of the opposition, the Labour Party's Jeremy Corbyn, right, speaks with British Defence Secretary Michael Fallon, pictured left ONE OF THE BLOODIEST BATTLES IN HUMAN HISTORY: 1.3 MILLION CASUALTIES FOR THE SAKE OF SIX MILES THE SOMME: BY THE NUMBERS There were seven days of Allied bombardment of the German lines before the battle started, aiming to cut the barbed wire and destroy trench defences and artillery. Prior to the battle the British bombarded German lines with 1.6 million shells in an effort to weaken their resolve, but the Germans were heavily fortified and many of the shells did not go off. On the first day alone British forces suffered casualties of 40,000 and deaths of 20,000, with 60 per cent of all of those killed being officers. The battle lasted 141 days, from July 1 to November 18. By the end of the bloody battle, there were 1.3 million killed or injured on both sides and British soldiers had advanced by just six miles. The British suffered 429,000 casualties, the French suffered 195,000 and the Germans 650,000. Forty-nine Victoria Crosses were awarded for bravery during the deadly battle. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission cares for 150,000 graves in the Somme area. There are a further 72,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers who died at the Somme with no known graves and whose names are recorded on the British memorial at Thiepval. Sources: Imperial War Museum, PA Archive. THE SOMME: AS IT HAPPENED February 21 German bombardment of the town of Verdun further along the line begins. May 19 German attack on Verdun forces French to divert troops from Somme. May 31 Battle of Jutland inflicts major damage on German navy. It would spend the rest of the war in its home ports, giving British fleet effective control of seas. June 24 Allied bombardment at the Somme begins. June 29 Heavy rain forces postponement of attack. July 1 Battle of the Somme begins. French troops advance, but British forces suffer losses of almost 20,000 men in 24 hours. July 14 Renewed British assault along shorter front line. South African troops begin important attack on Delville Wood. September 3 Renewed British attack in northern section of Somme battlefield. September 15 Tanks used in battle for first time in history. September 26 Joint Franco-British offensive. Thiepval finally taken. October 7 Rain delays further Allied advances, leading to a renewed war of attrition. November 18 End of Somme offensive. Advertisement The Somme in colour: Photographs bring to life the daily life of Tommies Brought to life in vibrant colour, these photographs capture how British soldiers lived while on the battlefield of the Somme. Tommies are seen tending to injured German prisoners, cooking together and watching from the lines as mines exploded. The images even show a visit to the front by King George V. The images were colourised by specialist Tom Marshall from PhotograFix to pay tribute to those who risked their lives in the deadly battle. 'I believe that colour adds another dimension to historic images, and helps modern eyes to connect with the subjects,' he said. 'Black and white images are too often sadly ignored, especially by younger generations. By colourising the photos I hope that more people will stop to look and learn more about the soldiers at the Somme and what they went through one hundred years ago.' He added: 'Of the thousands of photos taken during the Somme I have chosen a handful to illustrate the living and fighting conditions of British troops from the lowest to highest ranks.' Two British soldiers look out from a ramshackle hut that served as their home on the frontline during the Battle of the Somme in 1916 Three British soldiers sit around a fire on ornate dining chairs as they cook a meal in a steel helmet near Miraumont-le-Grand A British soldier leads a horse laden with dozens of pairs of trench boots through thick mud as the British Army continues the Somme offensive A sign reading 'pack transport this way' sticks out among leafless trees stripped by artillery fire near the frontline of the Somme battle A group of British Army soldiers hang up clothes as they relax outside a shelter near the trenches of the battle of the Somme A Boche prisoner, wounded and muddy is led along a railway track as British Army infantrymen return from another push on the battlefield A group of British soldiers line up behind a gun playfully etched with 'Somme gun' as they enjoy a light-hearted moment amid the carnage Carrying heavy packs and metal helmets, a group of British soldiers continue their journey across a landscape littered with debris A commander is photographer explaining the capture of Thiepval to King George V from the top of the Thiepval Chateau A British soldier looks over exploding mines designed to clear the way for advancing troops during the Somme offensive UNLIKELY FACES OF THE SOMME BATTLEFIELD: HITLER, MACMILLAN AND TOLKIEN AMONG THOSE WHO FOUGHT Schoolboys, clergymen and athletes were among the thousands of ordinary men who were sent out by both sides to fight in the Somme offensive. Many of those who survived returned to their homes in Britain, Germany and France and lived quiet lives, with little to point to their wartime experiences. But others would go on to become notable - and in some cases infamous - names in politics, literature and the arts. Here, we reveal some of the high-profile figures who fought on the battlefields of the Somme in 1916. JRR Tolkien The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings author was an officer in the 11th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers. Serving in the difficult northern sector of the Somme battlefield, Tolkien's health eventually suffered. He contracted trench fever at the end of October 1916 and was then sent back to hospital in Birmingham. He was unfit for service for the rest of the war. Harold Macmillan The British Conservative Prime Minister from 1957 to 1963 was an officer in the Grenadier Guards who was wounded twice during the Somme. He spent the rest of the war recovering and was left permanently affected. Otto Frank Anne Frank's father was the only member of the family to survive the Holocaust. Born in Frankfurt he was drafted into the German Army in 1915 served on the Western Front for the rest of the war, earning promotion to Lieutenant. He moved the family from Germany to Amsterdam in 1933 after Hitler's rise to power and increasing violence and discrimination against Jews, even those who had put their lives on the line for their country. Adolf Hitler The Nazi dictator was injured fighting for the German Empire on the Somme. Over the years there has been speculation that he suffered a wound to his genitals as well as the leg wound suffered while serving with a Bavarian unit, which gave rise to the legend that he only had one testicle. In a postcard unearthed in 2012 the then 27-year-old soldier wrote of his intention to 'report voluntarily for the field immediately' from the hospital in Munich where he was recovering. Ralph Vaughan Williams The British composer's work The Lark Ascending is frequently voted the nation's most popular piece of classical music. He enlisted as a private in the Royal Army Medical Corps on New Year's Eve, 1914, the same year he produced the work. He was aged 42. His friend, fellow composer George Butterworth, was killed on the Somme on August 5 1916. Siegfried Sassoon As a second lieutenant with the 1st Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers, war poet Sassoon witnessed the carnage of July 1 weeks after earning a Military Cross in a daring operation to rescue a soldier in No Man's Land. Robert Graves A friend of Sassoon and a fellow war poet who served in the same unit, Graves was wounded in a shell explosion on July 20. He was so badly hurt that his family were told he was dead and it was announced in the Times. He described his wartime experiences in Farewell To All That in 1929. He died in 1985, aged 90. Edmund Blunden A poet contemprary of Sassoon and Graves, Blunden was physically uninjured by his war service but suffered from 'shell shock', now known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for the rest of his life. He described the Somme in works including Thiepval Wood. Advertisement Behind the lens: Pictures taken on cameras smuggled on to the frontline offer rare personal look at the bloody battle These black-and-white photographs were captured by soldiers on cameras smuggled on to the frontline of the Somme offensive. The men in these photographs were just a few of those who, after enlisting in response to Lord Kitchener's call for volunteers to form a new Army 'Your country needs you' were sent to the killing fields of the Somme. Many would never return. Some men in these images, having survived the initial onslaught, were slain later during the relentless trench warfare that continued until the winter. The images, which show soldiers relaxing before the battle began and in action once the offensive started, have been put together in bestselling World War One author Richard van Emden's book, 'The Somme: The Epic Battle in the Soldiers' own Words and Photographs'. Van Emden said: 'These are all pictures taken by the soldiers themselves on their own hand-held cameras which they had brought to France. 'Possession of cameras had been banned but a few men, mostly officers, secretly kept them to shoot some of the most poignant images of the war. 'These pictures were taken to preserve the 'adventure' for a time after the war when returning soldiers and their families might wish to look back on the campaign. 'But instead the images captured a war in which adventure quickly turned to horror and snaps often included the last glimpses of friends and comrades who were to die.' He added: 'No other book has attempted to tell the story of the Somme from the British arrival in July 1915 until the Germans withdrew from the Somme to newly-prepared positions thirty miles east, in March 1917.' Young German soldiers, some little older than teenagers, get dressed in the trenches as they prepare to go 'over the top' Horse drawn carts stand in wait in the middle of a town destroyed by bombs as soldiers in the British Army search through the rubble Four British soldiers enjoy a quiet moment and a cigarette in the middle of a field, in a scene that seems a lifetime away from the horrors of war A British soldier, pipe hanging from his mouth, uses a makeshift walking stick to propel himself through the knee-deep mud Two Germans stand watch inside a trench in a heavily wooded area. The photographs is one of a number presented in the new book A group of soldiers from the British Army pass the time in the trench by chatting, writing letters home and reading newspapers SOLDIER SHOT DURING THE BATTLE OF THE SOMME SURVIVED WHEN THE BULLET HIT A SPOON KEPT IN HIS POCKET Lucky charm: The spoon that saved Henry Cooper's life A soldier shot during the Battle of the Somme was saved by a spoon and a bible he kept in his jacket pocket. Henry Cooper, from Manchester, was shot in the chest on the frontline but survived because the bullet struck the spoon and the bible before piercing his skin. The bullet punctured major organs, including his lung, and became lodged inside his body. The 20-year-old soldier was sent back to the UK and spent months recovering in hospital in Southampton. Mr Cooper suffered as a result of the wound in later life and died in the 1970s. The remarkable story has emerged on the eve of the centenary of the Somme offensive, which started on July 1, 1916. The first day of the battle remains the bloodiest in British military history. The silver spoon was passed down to Mr Cooper's grandson Rod Cooper, who carried it in his pocket while serving in Iraq in 1991. Father-of-one Rod, 54, from Paignton, Devon, said his mother gave him the keepsake as a token of good luck and asked him to keep it in his pocket, just as his grandfather had done. He said: 'I knew a few things about the spoon but as a kid I didn't take much interest if I'm honest. 'I kept it in my top pocket throughout the deployment. I took it on further tours later on. I'm not overly superstitious but it seemed harmless and like a good idea. 'I didn't show it to many people really while on deployment. My troop and crew knew about it because they knew I didn't want to lose it.' Mr Cooper, now a locksmith, said neither his father nor his grandfather spoke of their wartime experiences. He is being assisted by the Royal British Legion with searching for his grandfather's military records. Advertisement Army doctor who single-handedly rescued 20 soldiers from No Man's Land under heavy fire among men awarded 49 Victoria Crosses for Somme bravery Captain Chavasse spent two days rescuing soldiers under heavy fire in No Man's Land during an attack on the village of Guillemont An Army doctor was among the dozens of men awarded Victoria Crosses for their outstanding bravery during the Battle of the Somme. Captain Noel Godfrey Chavasse of the Royal Army Medical Corps, a two-time recipient of the honour, was given his first for his actions during the bloody 1916 offensive. It was one of 49 Victoria Crosses awarded during the campaign. Captain Chavasse spent two days rescuing soldiers under heavy fire in No Man's Land during an attack on the village of Guillemont. The announcement of his VC in the London Gazette read: 'He saved the lives of some 20 badly wounded men, besides the ordinary cases which passed through his hands. His courage and self-sacrifice were beyond praise.' Letters sent home to his father, now among two boxes of his documents held by the Imperial War Museum, detail how he continued to help soldiers after being taken for treatment at a 'dressing station' behind the lines and was even told off for not resting. Dismissing his injuries as 'absolutely nothing' and 'two minute fragments of shell in my back', he told his father in a letter on August 14: 'I had been badly disgraced as last night I was forbidden to leave the dressing station. But my stretcher bearers collected, like the splendid fellows they are, and fed me with casualties all night. 'Still, I did feel despatching parties to scenes of disaster instead of leading them. I did go out a little way once to get an officer who was lying out by the road, but I was found out and admonished.' He added that medical staff had promised 'that if bad cases occur up the line I may go if sent for by a stretcher bearer who cannot cope with the injury'. Sadly, Chevasse's second Victoria Cross was awarded posthumously. He died in 1917, two days after heroics rescuing soldiers during the Battle of Passchendaele. Lieutenant Tom Adlam also received the nation's highest military honour after he lead a team who stormed a German trench. The 'bombing officer' with the Bedfordshire Regiment led his men on to the battlefield, throwing grenades as they made their way down the enemy lines in front of Thiepval after previous attacks had failed. With less than 100 men Adlam had achieved an objective that a brigade of troops had failed to take seven times. His son Clive, 87, said: 'Once there the men all passed their bombs along to him, because he was very good at throwing. Then he started throwing bombs in front of him down the German trench until eventually they ran out of bombs.' The following day he led a team that took another trench, despite being shot in the leg and then in his right throwing-arm, simply swapping to throw grenades left-handed. Afterwards he was invalided back to a hospital in Colchester, Essex, where he started receiving messages of congratulations. 'He had no idea why, so he sent a telegram to his father ... and he said 'why congratulations, what for?',' Mr Adlam said. 'His father sent back saying the press had been round, wanting your photograph, you've been awarded the Victoria Cross. That was the first he knew of it.' Lt Adlam went on to become a Hampshire schoolteacher after the war, before being called up to serve again in 1939 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He died in 1975. The Victoria Cross was instituted by Queen Victoria in 1856. It is awarded for 'most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy' to military and civilians. This is the deadly dagger disguised as a fountain pen belonging to a British wartime spy which has been unearthed after nearly 70 years This is the deadly dagger disguised as a fountain pen which was found in the handbag of a British wartime spy nearly 70 years after she risked her life working for the resistance. Heroine Beatrice Jackman, a secret agent, carried the James Bond-style gadget with her while she worked in Nazi-occupied Denmark during the Second World War. The concealed weapon - a three-inch blade hidden by the screwcap - was only found among her possessions of her home in Surrey when she died in 2012 at the age of 92. The item - which remains in pristine condition and is still as lethal as the day it was made - is now due to be sold at auction. Ms Jackman had been living in Denmark at the outbreak of the conflict in 1939. As a teenager, she was tasked with taking messages around local villages on her bike and was so successful she was recruited by the Danish government as a Special Operations Executive. She then risked her life by working for the resistance, hiding Allied airmen who had been shot down. She also worked as a translator and was involved in attacking the Nazi HQ records department in 1942. During that time in Stockholm, she was given the British-made brown fountain pen, incase she ever found herself in trouble. Bizarrely, there is an inscription on the pen which reads Savoy made in England - which could have been a giveaway if she had been caught. But Ms Jackman was eventually forced to flee Denmark for Sweden in 1943 after she came under the Gestapo's radar. She returned to Britain, married and had a child. But the pen remained with Ms Jackman until her death and was discovered on her desk among the rest of her stationery when her estate was cleared out. The item is now being sold at auction by Bosleys of Marlow, Buckinghamshire. A spokesman for the auction house said: 'It is a fascinating item.It's an incredibly historic piece of wartime memorabilia, I have never seen one like it. 'I think the seller had quite a surprise when he took the cap off to find a blade. These things were clearly made to do a lot of damage. 'It's just as deadly as the day it was made, it's still just as lethal.' He added that the item was also 'testament to the government's ingenuity'. 'It shows the lengths the Allies would go to in order to have an advantage over the enemy,' they added. 'They tried to make everything in to a weapon. It is in pristine condition because the cap has been on for so many decades. 'I wonder how many items like this one have been thrown away because they were so well designed.' The year before her death Ms Jackman sold an evening dress which she had made from a huge Nazi flag for 2,100. After moving back to Britain, she was visited by her then-fiance, a Major Parsons, who drove a Mercedes car he had taken from Herman Goring himself. The romantic US major gave Beatrice an enormous Nazi flag he had swiped from the Berlin Reichstag balcony in September 1945. She had the striking red material sent away to a dressmaker, who turned it into an elegant scoop necked gown. Tragically, the major died of pneumonia just four months before the young couple were due to marry. Beatrice Jackman (pictured with Herman Goring's Mercedes in 1945), a special agent, carried the James Bond-style gadget with her while she worked in Nazi-occupied Denmark during the Second World War She wore the exquisite red garment at parties and balls held to celebrate the end of the war. She sold the dress through the same auctioneers after 66 years so she could buy a flatscreen TV. Her friend and neighbour Philip Douetil, a 62-year-old antique restorer, said: 'Beatrice is an amazing lady and has had a truly remarkable life. 'She's very modest and doesn't think her exploits are terribly special, but the tales she has to tell are incredible.' The pen was made by the MI9, a department of the war office between 1939 and 1945, was responsible for producing concealed weapons. Among their other creations are shoes with a compass in the heel and combs and pencils with a knife in the middle. The Special Operations Executive was a British organisation formed during WWII to conduct espionage, sabotage and reconnaissance in occupied Europe against the Axis powers, and to aid local resistance movements. Few people were aware of SOE's existence. To those who were part of it or liaised with it, it was sometimes referred to as 'Churchill's Secret Army' or the 'Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare'. Its various branches, and sometimes the organisation as a whole, were concealed for security purposes behind names such as the 'Joint Technical Board' or the 'Inter-Service Research Bureau'. The organisation directly employed or controlled just over 13,000 people, about 3,200 of whom were women and was dissolved in 1946. A smelly, 'guacamole-thick' muck is fouling a stretch of beaches promoted as Florida's 'Treasure Coast'. Lawmakers and residents blame the federal government, saying the algae crisis is fueled by freshwater flows controlled by Army officials to protect an erosion-prone dike. The blue-green algae is the latest contaminant featured in years-long arguments over water flowing from Lake Okeechobee, which is critical to South Florida's water supply and flood control systems. At Central Marine boat docks in Stuart, pea-green and brown algae coated the water Thursday and smelled strongly like cow manure. Blooms that started last week in the St. Lucie River continue to spread, threatening Atlantic beaches expecting crowds of families for the holiday weekend. Water full of algae laps along the Sewell's Point shore on the St. Lucie River under an Ocean Boulevard bridge on Monday Blue-green algae envelops an area along the St. Lucie River in Stuart, Florid, on Wednesday. Officials want federal action along the stretch of Florida's Atlantic coast where the governor has declared a state of emergency over algae blooms Boats docked at Central Marine in Stuart are seen surrounded by blue-green algae Florida's US senators, Republican Marco Rubio and Democrat Bill Nelson, have joined Martin County commissioners in calling for the Army Corps of Engineers to stop the flow of water between the river and Lake Okeechobee Sarah Chaney, a receptionist at Central Marine, said boaters and fisherman are cancelling reservations after seeing reports of the algae, which she called 'horrible and disgusting'. 'I would describe them as guacamole-thick. And it stinks,' said Gabriella Ferrero, spokeswoman for Martin County. Florida's US senators, Republican Marco Rubio and Democrat Bill Nelson, have joined Martin County commissioners in calling for the Army Corps of Engineers to stop the flow of water between the river and Lake Okeechobee. Residents and business owners blame the algae on pollutants streaming from the lake. In a news release Thursday afternoon, the Corps said it would begin reducing the flow from the lake Friday, targeting the Caloosahatchee Estuary and the St. Lucie Estuary. After touring the St. Lucie River as it passes through downtown Stuart, Nelson said the problems can be traced to Florida's history of diverting water to the ocean. In a news release Thursday afternoon, the Corps said it would begin reducing the flow from the lake Friday, targeting the Caloosahatchee Estuary and the St. Lucie Estuary. Algae is seen in Stuart, Florida in this image The blue-green algae is seen in the water surrounding a boat in Stuart When Gov. Rick Scott declared a state emergency for the area Wednesday, he blamed the federal government for neglecting repairs to the lake's aging dike that's considered one of the country's most at-risk for imminent failure A dead walking catfish lays on the shore with algae along Sewell's Point on the St. Lucie River on Monday A crab is seen with green flecks on top of its body in this image 'We need to repair 75 years of diking and draining, but that takes time,' he said. He called on Florida's Legislature to spend money approved by state voters for environmental projects such as purchasing land around Lake Okeechobee for water storage instead of diverting the funds to pay for administrative costs. Rubio is scheduled to visit the area Friday. When Gov. Rick Scott declared a state emergency for the area Wednesday, he blamed the federal government for neglecting repairs to the lake's aging dike that's considered one of the country's most at-risk for imminent failure. Some residents blamed Scott instead on Thursday. He hasn't done enough to curb pollution from farms north of the lake or purchase land farther south where lake waters could be stored and cleaned, said Irene Gomes, owner of the Driftwood Motel in Jensen Beach. A woman looking down at the algae covers her face with her shirt in Stuart Advisory signs (left at Bathrub Reef Beach and right) are warning against contact The green algae is seen washed up on the sand in this image Gov. Rick Scott hasn't done enough to curb pollution from farms north of the lake or purchase land farther south where lake waters could be stored and cleaned, said Irene Gomes, owner of the Driftwood Motel in Jensen Beach Green algae is pictured in the water at the St. Lucie Lock And Dam The algae has rapidly grown from a beach nuisance to a health concern, as one customer made plans to leave early if the algae triggered breathing issues, said Gomes, whose family has owned the motel's turquoise-colored cabins since 1958. 'At one point, I could say to my customers, "Come down, it's not at all the beaches," because it wasn't toxic. Now we're talking about health issues,' Gomes said. Chaney, the Central Marine receptionist, said Scott should visit the area, even if he gets criticized. 'He needs to come see it himself and stop being a coward,' she said. The governor's press office declined further comment Thursday, pointing to his emergency declaration Wednesday. Thick algae covered water at Stuart's Central Marine boat docks on Thursday The blue-green algae is the latest contaminant in years-long arguments over water flowing from Lake Okeechobee Lake Okeechobee is the largest in Florida and the second largest body of freshwater in the contiguous United States. Flooding there after a major hurricane in 1928 killed at least 2,500 people in surrounding communities of mostly poor, black farmworkers. It inspired the storm central to Zora Neale Hurston's novel Their Eyes Were Watching God. To reduce the risk of a breach in the dike built after that hurricane, the Corps of Engineers tries to keep lake water levels between 12.5 feet and 15.5 feet above sea level. Shoring up the dike will take years. Meanwhile, freshwater is released east and west of the lake into the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers. State water managers have said local stormwater runoff and septic tanks also fuel algae blooms. They're working to direct more water south of Lake Okeechobee into the parched Everglades, but federal regulations, conservation mandates and stalled restoration projects complicate those efforts. In neighboring St. Lucie County, home to the troubled Indian River Lagoon, officials have prohibited homeowners from using fertilizer during the summer and begun working with the state to test waterways for pollution that might be linked to septic tanks. 'A lot of people want to blame Lake Okeechobee, it's an easy target, but there are a lot of factors that contribute to the health of the lagoon,' said St. Lucie County spokesman Erick Gill. Murky waters on southwest Florida's Gulf Coast also are blamed on the lake's discharges. A black BBC radio presenter has revealed how she was called a 'n*****' by a cyclist who also told her to 'go home' just days after the historic Brexit vote. Mother-of-two Trish Adudu, 47, was walking to her car when she was verbally abused by a white man who was riding past on a bicycle. The BBC Radio Coventry and Warwickshire breakfast show host tweeted that the yob had also told her and an Asian man who was walking past, to 'go home'. She said the cyclist then turned to her and shouted 'that goes for you n*****' as she was walking in Coventry after her morning show at 9.30am on Wednesday. Mother-of-two Trish Adudu, pictured left and right, with colleague Jo Tidman , 47, said she was racially abused by a cyclist in Coventry who called her a 'n*****' and told her to 'go home' Mrs Adudu, who has two sons Tyler and Kennedy, was born in Bristol to Ghanaian immigrant parents. She starred on Loose Women between 1999 and 2002, and has also worked on The One Show and Channel Five News before joining BBC Radio Coventry and Warwickshire in 2014. Police are now investigating the racially motivated incident which happened days after detectives promised a zero-tolerance stance on hate crimes. Popular BBC presenter Mrs Adudu, who lives in a 200,000 semi-detached house in Coventry, said she feared the racist abuse could lead to violence. She said: 'This type of vile abuse needs to stop and we need to work together to try and get rid of it. 'I would love for the other man who was there to come forward, because this is not just about me. 'If the guy on the bike could be so vile in such a short period of time, then what else could he go on to do? Who's next? Someone is going to get hurt.' Mrs Adudu, whose late father was Nigerian and mother is Jamaican, today said the pro-Brexit vote provided racists with 'a window' to hurl abuse. The mum-of-two told how she doesn't want the racist cyclist to go to jail but would like to talk to him to 'see where this hate comes from'. Mrs Adudu spoke about the incident on Twitter, pictured, and posted a placard of an 'out' sign She also tweeted, pictured, that she had 'never experienced that level of hate head on' before She said: 'I saw this Asian guy who couldn't have been more than 25 and a guy on a bike was shouting: 'Get out, haven't you seen the result?' 'He saw me looking on in horror as he came around the bend on his bike and he said: 'That goes for you as well n****r, why can't you all go home?' 'My initial instinct was he was a one-off idiot then I thought he was so angry that I am sure there would have been other victims that day. 'It made me think I have got to go to the police. 'I was born in Bristol and brought up in Coventry and I am proud to be British. I have never experienced anything like that before, it was just so vicious. 'I can't say if he would have shouted the same thing last Tuesday but it does seem linked to the vote. The presenter, third left at the launch of Channel 5 in 1997, has had a long career in television, including stints on Channel 5 News, Loose Women and The One Show 'There aren't 17 million racists in Britain, I just think it (the Brexit vote) might have given a window to people like him. 'We want this guy caught because if he can be so viciously vile then he is capable of doing a lot more, some potentially could get hurt. 'I don't want this guy to go to prison, I would love to sit and talk to him to see where this hate comes from.' Mrs Adudu also posted a picture of an 'Out' placard on Twitter alongside the comment: 'Just seen a guy verbally tell an Asian guy 2 go home! Then he turned to me and shouted that goes for you N*****! Nice.' She added: 'Police were brilliant and thorough and looking at the CCTV but urge pple (sic) to report incidents. I have never exp(erienced) that level of hate head on.' Inspector Alastair Orencas, from West Midlands Police, has now vowed to use all available resources to track down the person responsible and bring them to justice. The suspect is described as a pale white man, clean shaven, of small, thin build, aged in his mid-20s. Inspector Orencas is also appealing for the Asian man who was also abused by the cyclist to come forward. He added: 'There is absolutely no place for this type of sickening and deplorable behaviour on the streets of our city and we will be doing everything we can do identify the perpetrator. 'If anyone can tell us who this person is, or if anyone was in the area at the time and has information which they think may assist us, I would urge them to come forward. 'I would also appeal directly to this individual - if it was you who shouted these words, do the right thing and hand yourself in.' The incident comes just days after West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson warned that hate crimes will not be tolerated after the EU vote. Mrs Adudu, far right at the launch, has called to an end to such 'vile abuse' and warned 'someone is going to get hurt' He said: 'I need to be clear we will absolutely not tolerate crimes of hate and we will be responsive to these incidents, bring people to justice and care for victims.' The incident involving Mrs Adudu happened days after fellow BBC radio presenter Sima Kotecha was called a 'P***' by a voter in her home town of Basingstoke, Hampshire. Monitoring group True Vision claims there has been a 57 per cent increase in hate crime nationally since the referendum vote. They said there were 85 reported crimes to their website in the four days after the vote, compared to 54 over the same period a month earlier. A 12-year-old Indian boy who was kidnapped from New Delhi and taken to neighbouring Bangladesh six years ago finally returned home today to be reunited with his parents. Sonu landed at Delhi airport escorted by security guards and officials and gripping his father Mehboob Begum's hand as his mother Mumtaz clutched him to her chest. Mr Begum said: 'I have found my son and I am very happy now. I would like to thank (foreign minister) Sushma Swaraj.' Indian external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj (left) meets Sonu and his parents in New Delhi today, six years after he was kidnapped Local media reported that Sonu was abducted by a woman tenant living in his parent's Delhi house in 2010 and was then taken across the border into Bangaldesh. A Bangladeshi mechanic, Jamal ibn Musa, alerted Indian officials after speaking with Sonu, who was being exploited and forced to do household chores by a woman who lived in the district of Jessore. Mr Musa told Bangladesh's Daily Star newspaper: 'They used to torture the boy and keep him busy with hard work around the day at my neighbour's house. I informed the police about it around three years ago.' 'She used to make me work and beat me,' Sonu was quoted on Bangladeshi online news portal bdnews24.com earlier this week. Sonu (left) said he was beaten and forced to work while in Bangladesh. He was repatriated with the help of Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj Eventually Mr Musa rescued him in December last year and took him to a children's home as Bangladesh and India worked to have him repatriated. Mr Musa travelled to Delhi on last month to search for 'a vague address' the boy had given him. He tracked down Sonu's parents in the Seema Puri suburb of Delhi. The Indian foreign affairs minister Mrs Swaraj said this week DNA samples taken from the boy matched those of his mother. Sonu's mother Mumtaz Begum (pictured, centre) and his father Mehboob (right) were clearly very emotional today after being reunited with their son after six years Images showed Mrs Swaraj hugging a smiling Sonu at her New Delhi office as he and his mother touched the minister's feet in a gesture of respect and gratitude.Babng Two women accused of abducting the boy from Delhi, are reportedly facing a criminal investigation in Bangladesh. Mrs Begum told the BBC 'she was very happy to be reunited with her son' and she felt like 'celebrating Eid today'. She said of Mr Musa: 'He is an angel. I can't thank him enough. He is a great man.' In a similar case last year, a mute and deaf Indian woman who strayed into Pakistan more than a decade ago finally returned to her home country. She was hopeful of being reunited with her long-lost family after identifying them in photographs delivered by Indian officials in Pakistan. A church group has been accused of blackmailing children into writing letters to God by offering them free doughnuts (stock image) A church group has been accused of blackmailing children into writing letters to God by offering them free doughnuts. A Christian movement known as Breathe Communities spent two weeks touring around Penwith, Cornwall, in its Wave Bus in a bid talk to rural communities about Jesus. On some of their stops, they decided to 'bless the people around', by handing out treats such as chocolate and magazines. But parents quickly criticised the group's actions, claiming that the treats acted as a sugary bribe to entice children into religion. Angry mother Gemma Keller wrote on Facebook: 'Surely its classed as blackmail trying to get a child to write to God so they can get a free doughnut?' And another parent Sophie Kaute added: 'Personally I don't believe it is right. I don't agree with the blackmail of the free doughnut if you write a letter to God so I will be taking it up with the council. 'There has to be a better way to achieve what they have set out to do.' Karen Golder from Breathe, defended the group's actions, explaining that the 'blessings' were handed out to everyone - not just children - and that there was no 'coercion'. She said: 'The visit was part of a two week programme we have just finished where we have visited various areas of Penwith. 'We have either stopped and simply prayed or have sought to bless the people around - i.e we gave out chocolate and magazines to dads on Father's day. We had various families come and there was no coercion.' The Christian group known as Breathe Communities spent two weeks touring around Penwith, Cornwall (pictured), in its Wave Bus in a bid talk to rural communities about Jesus She added that there are many events that the group has organised, including skate competitions and assemblies in schools. 'Yes, we asked a God based question of people passing, but we talked about all sorts from the referendum and scooters to the weather and dogs,' she added. Ms Golder added that the council was aware of what they are doing, and they had the relevant licences and permission to be on the park. An American diplomat was 'beaten up' outside the the US Embassy in Moscow by uniformed FSB agents tasked with protecting the building. According to reports, the man suffered a broken shoulder and other injuries while attempting to gain access to the compound on June 6. The diplomat managed to struggle into the building where he underwent medical treatment, before he was flown out of the country to recover. A US diplomat was attacked by Russian police guarding the American embassy in Moscow, file photo Uniformed members of the FSB broke the diplomat's shoulder as he struggled to enter the embassy, pictured In 2013 the FSB arrested US diplomat Ryan Fogle, pictured, who they accused of being a CIA spy According to the Washington Post, which spoke to four US officials who were briefed on the incident, the attack caused diplomatic tension between the State Department and the Russian government. The Russian ambassador in Washington Sergey Kislyak was summoned to appear at the State Department who wanted to complain about the incident. It is not known whether the man was a spy working under 'diplomatic cover' whose real identity had been exposed to the Russian security services. The Russian response claims that the unknown man was asked to show his documents by police on duty, but instead hit one of the guards in the face with his elbow an account which it claims is supported by CCTV imagery. It branded the Washington Post article distorted and contrary to the actual facts. It added: It is known that the diplomat is actually a CIA agent. In 2013 the FSB arrested the a suspected US spy who was in Moscow under diplomatic cover. Russian officials claimed Ryan Fogle was the CIA's 'station chief' in Moscow. The FSB claimed Fogle was trying to recruit one of their anti-terrorist experts by offering him $1million a year. At the time of his arrest, Russian officials claimed Fogle was carrying spying equipment. FARGO -- A man identified as a person of interest in the homicide of a woman found dead in her south Fargo home in May has been charged with sexually assaulting and murdering her. The charges were filed Thursday, June 30, in Cass County District Court against Landon Lauwagie in connection with the death of Cory Terlecky. Not long after Terlecky died, Lauwagie was arrested on a probation violation in an unrelated case. Hes being held at the Sibley County in southern Minnesota. Fargo police are holding a news conference at 11 a.m. to discuss the case. According to court documents: Surveillance video from the Garage Bar in Moorhead showed Terlecky and Lauwagie were there together in the early morning hours of May 14. That afternoon, Terlecky did not show up at the Mexican Village restaurant in Fargo for her shift as a server. The morning of May 15, surveillance video at Romantix, an adult entertainment store in downtown Fargo, captured images of Lauwagie driving Terleckys car. The same day, her car was found about 250 miles away at a construction site near Henderson, Minn., a town in Sibley County. People who know Lauwagie spotted him in the area. The evening of May 15, police were called to Terleckys home where her body had been discovered. She was naked from the waist down and had injuries consistent with a sexual assault. Blood at the scene and other evidence suggested that she was killed in her home. The shirt that Lauwagie appeared to be wearing at the Garage Bar was found at his mothers home in Fargo. A test at the state lab detected blood on the shirt that matched Terleckys blood. During the investigation, police named Lauwagie as a person of interest and attempted to interview him at the Sibley County Jail, but he invoked his right to remain silent and requested an attorney. Check back later for an update on this developing story. Spanish officials have raided Google's Madrid officers in a tax probe - just weeks after storming its headquarters in France. The US firm is one of several multinational corporations that have come under fire in Europe for paying extremely low taxes by shifting revenue across borders in an often complex web of financial arrangements. A spokeswoman for Google said in a statement the company complied with fiscal legislation in Spain just as it did in all countries where it operated. Spanish officials raided Google's Madrid offices on Thursday in a tax probe, authorities said, barely a month after the internet company had its headquarters in France searched on suspicion of tax evasion The raid at Madrid's Google head office (pictured) was approved by a court in the capital and followed a request by the Spanish tax authorities, according to a brief statement by the Madrid High Court The company was working with authorities to answer all questions, the spokeswoman added. Google is under pressure across Europe from politicians and the public upset at how multinationals exploit their presence around the world to minimise their tax bills. Today's raid was approved by a court in the capital and followed a request by the Spanish tax authorities, according to a brief statement by the Madrid High Court. Google, part of Alphabet Inc, pays little tax in most of Europe because it reports almost all sales in Ireland. This is possible thanks to a loophole in international tax law and hinges on staff in Dublin concluding all sales contracts. The Paris raid in May aimed to establish whether Google Ireland has a permanent base there, and whether the firm was meeting its tax obligations. It was part of a probe into aggravated tax fraud and organised laundering of the proceeds. Investigation: Police officers were seen leaving the Paris offices of US internet giant Google after a raid in Paris last month A police car was seen leaving the Paris offices of US internet giant Google after officers carried out a search Around 100 police officers, five magistrates, 25 computer experts and about 100 tax officials entered the US internet giant's premises in Paris in the early hours as France ramped up its efforts to clamp down on alleged tax evasion. Google was accused of owing the French government 1.2billion in unpaid taxes. The raid was part of EU officials' attempt at cracking down on big businesses avoiding tax, with companies such as Apple, Amazon, Fiat and Starbucks in the firing line. OTHER GIANTS IN THE DOCK: MAJOR FIRMS AND CORPORATION TAX Facebook: The social media titan paid just 4,327 in corporation tax in 2014, despite reporting UK revenues of 105million. Apple: The US-based technology firm behind the iPad and the iPhone made 34billion in profit during the year to September 2014. Experts estimate that the UK accounted for 1.9billion of that profit, but the firm only paid 11.8million in British corporation tax. Amazon: The online shopping giant took 5.3billion in sales from British shoppers in 2014 but paid just 11.9million in tax after announcing profits of 34.4million. Starbucks: The coffee chain paid just 8.6million of tax over 14 years between 1998 and 2012 when sales totalled 3billion. But latest company filings show it paid 8.1million in corporation tax for last year on profits of 34.2million. Advertisement At the time, the raid also prompted calls for an investigation into Britain's 'sweetheart' tax deal with the tech giant. In January, Google agreed to pay 130million to cover a decade of back taxes after a six-year probe by HM Revenue & Customs. But France's socialist government has pointedly ruled out striking a similar deal with the company over back taxes. A source close to the matter said in February that French authorities believe the Californian group owed 1.6billion in back taxes. Its European operations are headquartered in Ireland, which has some of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe. The PNF said the probe, launched in June 2015, aimed to 'check' whether Google Ireland Limited, 'by not declaring part of its activity carried out on French territory... has failed in its tax obligations, notably in terms of company tax and value-added tax'. Google France received a 'notification' of the investigation back in March 2014, which did not give any precise figures. Italy has demanded more than 200million from Google, which is accused of perpetrating tax fraud there for years. It has been raided by French authorities before, in June 2011, during an investigation into transfers to its Irish headquarters. In January, Google agreed to pay 130million in back taxes to Britain, prompting criticism from opposition lawmakers and campaigners. A police car leaves the Paris office following officials' search of the Paris premises May this year At the time the U.S. online search firm, which has faced severe criticism of its UK financial arrangements, said the payment would cover back taxes from 2005 to 2015. It also agreed to make changes so that future payments to HM Revenue and Customs will 'reflect the size and scope of our UK business'. Google CEO Sundar Pichai defended the Internet giant's tax practices during a visit to Paris in February. 'We're a global company. We have to abide by tax laws everywhere, we do abide by local tax laws in every single country,' he said. 'We're advocating strongly for a simpler global tax system,' he added. Donald Trump has jumped ahead of Hillary Clinton by 4 percentage points, the first time he has led her in a national poll since 38 days ago. The poll of 1,000 likely voters from Rasmussen Reports found that 43 per cent would vote for Trump if the November election were held today, compared with 39 per cent for Clinton. That represents a 9-point swing in just the last week: Seven days ago the same pollsters reported that Clinton was leading the presidential race by 5 points. I'M WINNING: Donald Trump will soon be crowing about a new Rasmussen Reports poll that has him leading Hillary Clinton by 4 percentage points nationally WE SHALL OVERCOMB: Clinton has led Trump in every other poll since mid-May The last time Trump polled better than her in a national survey was a May 22 survey from ABC News and the Washington Post that had him up by 2 a lead smaller than the poll's margin of error. 'It remains to be seen whether hes just having a good week or this actually represents a real move forward among voters,' Rasmussen reported online. Part of that good week was a widely praised speech in western Pennsylvania about trade, and a stunning vote among United Kingdom citizens to leave the European Union a move that resonated with Trump supporters. Trump is gaining ground among younger voters, at least among Rasmussen's sample of Americans: While other polls show Clinton with sizable leads in that group, Thursday's release shows the two candidates tied among voters under 40 years of age. Another source of Trump's apparent momentum is an advantage over Clinton among crossover defectors who plan to vote against their own party registration. The billionaire Republican has cornered 14 per cent of the Democratic vote, according to Rasmussen, while the former Democratic secretary of state has only attracted the support of 10 per cent of Republicans. He also leads among independent voters, by a sizable 18-point margin. But another 28 per cent of likely voters without a party affiliation aren't choosing either of the two front-runners. Some are undecided, while others say they will support a third-party candidate. Rasmussen's question read: 'If the 2016 presidential election were held today, would you vote for Republican Donald Trump or Democrat Hillary Clinton?' The resulting numbers have a margin of error of 3 percentage points. A 25-year-old man is in critical condition after he was shot several times in west Sydney on Thursday night. Officers said they found the man at a home in Erskine Park after receiving calls reporting gun shots around 9pm. Paramedics treated the man at the home before rushing him to the hospital, police said. Police are investigating and have established a crime scene. A 25-year-old man is in critical condition after he was shot several times in Erskine Park, in west Sydney, around 9pm on Thursday (pictured) Paramedics treated the man at the home before rushing him to the hospital, police said Johnny Depp has sold two of his prized Jean-Michel Basquiat paintings for an eye-watering $11.5 million as he fights a bitter - and pricey - divorce battle with his wife of 15 months Amber Heard. Depp spent 25 years collecting eight of the Brooklyn artist's groundbreaking pieces. However, the 53-year-old handed them all over to Christie's in London last month. Six will sell on Thursday, but the first two went under the hammer on Wednesday night - smashing their expected price tags. A 1981 three-paneled piece titled Self Portrait was expected to land $1.9 million. It was snapped up by New York gallery owner Bill Acquavella for $4.7 million. The second, another 1981 piece painted on the back of a door titled Pork, had an estimated price tag of $3-5 million. It sold to an anonymous phone bidder for $6.8 million. Though Depp is already worth an estimated $400 million, the sales will come as some welcome relief while he fights Amber Heard's abuse claims. The couple did not have a prenuptial agreement. Nonetheless, he appeared drawn and slim on Wednesday night as he dined in Los Angeles with his daughter Lily-Rose and son Jack. Scroll down for video Going, going, gone: A 1981 three-paneled piece titled Self Portrait (pictured) by Jean-Michel Basquiat was expected to land $1.9 million. It was snapped up by New York gallery owner Bill Acquavella for $4.7 million Sold: The second, another 1981 piece painted on the back of a door titled Pork (pictured), had an estimated price tag of $3-5 million. It sold to an anonymous phone bidder for $6.8 million at Christie's in London As his paintings sold for millions, Johnny Depp was seen looking downcast and slim in Los Angeles with his children (left) on Wednesday. He is in the midst of a bitter divorce with Amber Heard (right, in February 2016) Basquiat, who died in 1988, pioneered a contemporary graffiti style of painting that caught the attention of the likes of Andy Warhol. Decades later, Depp has spoken at length about how Basquiat's work resonates with him. 'Nothing can replace the warmth and immediacy of Basquiat's poetry, or the absolute questions and truths that he delivered,' Depp said in an interview. 'The beautiful and disturbing music of his paintings, the cacophony of his silence that attacks our senses, will live far beyond our breath.' Depp and Heard were married in 2014 and she filed papers asking for a divorce in May after 15 months of marriage. The couple did not have a prenuptial agreement which entitles her to half the money he made over the course of their relationship, which looks to be somewhere between $20 and $30million. Heard, 30, had also asked a judge for spousal support and her legal fees to be covered during the divorce, but that was rejected by the court. Depp, who turned 53 last month, has been overseas touring with his band Hollywood Vampires and his next project looks to be the monster film The Invisible Man. Heard meanwhile is preparing to take on her biggest role to date as Mera, the queen of the sea and Aquaman's love interest, in the upcoming Justice League and Aquaman movies. Judges ruled refusal was 'flawed' and have asked committee to decide again Her daughter asked her parents to raise her babies before death in 2011 A bereft mother fighting to fulfil her daughter's 'dying wish' by using her frozen eggs to conceive a baby has won a landmark case which paves the way for her to give birth to her own grandchild. The 60-year-old wants permission to use the eggs after her 'much-loved and only child' asked her to have and raise her offspring when she was dying of cancer. The daughter, who died of bowel cancer in 2011 at the age of 28, had frozen her eggs during her treatment and had 'never wavered' in her desperate wish to become a parent. When she knew she was dying, she asked for that wish to be carried out by her own mother. Today, in a hugely significant ruling, judges found in the woman's favour, paving the way for her to travel abroad and use a sperm donor to fertilise her daughter's eggs. A bereft mother who fought to fulfil her daughter's 'dying wish' by using her frozen eggs to conceive a baby has won a landmark case which paves the way for her to give birth to her own grandchild The ruling comes after a five-year legal battle in which the fertility watchdog refused to release the eggs to the mother, on the grounds the daughter had not provided written consent for them to be taken abroad. But today, Sir James Munby, Lady Justice Arden and Lord Justice Burnett overturned a High Court ruling which said that decision was legal, instead calling the watchdog's refusal 'flawed'. The case has now been referred to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) committee - who were fighting the appeal - to reconsider its decision. A New York clinic has already indicated it would carry out fertility treatment at an estimated cost of 60,000 if the HFEA give permission for the mother and father, 59, to travel abroad. Giving the court's ruling, Lady Justice Arden said the couple - referred to as Mr and Mrs M - had succeeded because the committee had made their decision on a 'lack of certain evidence'. She also said the watchdog 'waved aside' a conversation between the mother and daughter in which they 'clearly contemplated the creation of an embryo.' During the hearing, Jenni Richards, the woman's QC, told the three judges that the woman wanted to fulfil her daughter's wishes that she should carry and raise a child created from her frozen eggs. Ms Richards said that, if judges did not overturn the High Court's ruling, the eggs would 'simply be allowed to perish'. The judge had heard how the daughter - referred to only as 'A' - had been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 21, after she had finished at university and had a good job. She was desperate to have children and wanted to undergo IVF to save her eggs, a procedure that was delayed because she was too ill. The daughter was so determined to have children - and so concerned that her treatment would leave her infertile - that she even asked doctors to put her ovaries into her mother's body. But, during a period of remission in 2008, the daughter was well enough to have treatment for the removal and storage of three eggs. The eggs - which she referred to as 'my babies' - were then stored at a fertility clinic in West London. But when the young woman realised she was dying in January 2010, she told her mother that she still wanted to have children - but via her own mother. In evidence, the mother said her daughter told her: I want you to carry my babies.I didnt go through the IVF to save my eggs for nothing. I want you and Dad to bring them up. 'They will be safe with you. I couldnt have wanted for better parents, I couldnt have done without you.' The daughter, who died of bowel cancer in 2011, had asked her mother to carry her child, using the eggs which she had frozen during her treatment. She also wanted her parents to raise that child Her parents later arranged to use a clinic in New York to conceive a child using a sperm donor. But when they asked the IVF clinic to release the eggs in 2013, when Mrs M was 57, The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority turned down the request. The judge was told that the HFEA did not object on the grounds of Mrs Ms age or the childs welfare but ruled the daughter had not given full written consent before her death. Although the daughter had filled out a form agreeing to the eggs' storage and use, she had not specified how her eggs would be used after her death - - including whether they should be taken abroad or fertilised with a sperm donor. Mrs M said her daughter was never given another form to specify how she wanted the eggs to be used and that her intention was clear. She said in her evidence: 'I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that, as far as A was concerned, her eggs held a life force and were living entities in limbo waiting to be born. 'She was clear that she wanted her genes to be carried forward after her death. She had suffered terribly and this was the one constant in her remaining years from which she never wavered.' But HEFA said the daughter may not have realised that her mothers health could be put at risk by such a pregnancy. A consultant obstetrician said Mrs Ms age meant her chances of carrying a child were small, and she had a greater risk of suffering complications, but that it was likely she could give birth safely. Mrs M has previously been treated for breast cancer and pregnancy can increase the risk of some hormone-related cancers returning, the court heard. In the High Court hearing, Mr Justice Ouseley had ruled that the HFEA had been entitled to find the daughter had not given 'the required consent'. He declared that there had been no breach of the family's human rights. Tara Brown and her 60 Minutes crew will likely be slapped with a small fine for their role in the botched Sally Faulkner child recovery. Ms Faulkner and child recovery specialist Adam Whittington have been charged with kidnapping. The state charges were laid after an 84-day investigation, during which Mr Whittington has been imprisoned in a 'rat-infested' Lebanon jail cell. Tara Brown and the 60 Minutes will likely be charged with a misdemeanour for their role in the botched child abduction. They face a fine of up to $670 each Ms Brown and the Channel Nine team, including sacked producer Stephen Rice, were charged with not reporting a crime. It is a misdemeanour offence carrying a maximum fine of $670. Reaching the decision, Judge Rami Abdullah said: 'It is over for them. 'I was fair with them, much too fair, more than fair with their job they go to difficult places and they were asked to be part of this by their bosses.' Former Australian soldier Adam Whittington has been charged with kidnapping and assault after an 84-day wait in prison It is understood the charge of kidnapping attracts a maximum penalty of three years in prison. The move to charge Faulkner is unexpected as Judge Abdullah has previously stated that he did not believe a mother could be found to have kidnapped her own children. Mr Whittingon, an Australian soldier from 1994 to 1998, has been jailed for his role in the kidnapping while the government conducted an investigation. Working for Child Abduction Recovery International, he travelled to Lebanon alongside a team from Channel 9 in an attempt to recover Ms Faulkner's two children from her partner, Ali Elamine. Ms Faulkner says she took the action after her estranged husband took the children on a two-week holiday in May 2015 and did not return them to Australia as promised. They were arrested after snatching Ms Faulkner's children, although Mr Elamine dropped personal charges against the 60 Minutes team after reportedly receiving a significant payout from Channel 9. Sally Faulkner (pictured) and her estranged husband Ali Elamine have previously reached an agreement which gave him full custody in return for her release from prison Although the Nine Network journalists and crew have avoided criminal charges, they will face a court-imposed fine after a trial. In a statement, Channel Nine said: 'We have been advised tonight by our legal team in Lebanon that the charges our 60 Minutes crew are facing in Lebanon have been downgraded. 'There will still be a trial on a date to be determined and out of respect for the Lebanese legal process we will not be making any further comment while the matter is still before the court.' Ashley Yates, 45, was arrested after a police probe A primary school headmaster has been remanded in custody accused of making indecent images of children and voyeurism. Ashley Yates, 45, was arrested after a police investigation and has been suspended by The Tynings Primary School in Staple Hill, Bristol. It is not known whether the alleged offences relate to incidents at the school, which has 320 pupils. Yates, from Filton in Bristol, has been charged with three counts of making indecent images of children and two of voyeurism. He appeared at Bristol Magistrates' Court yesterday and was remanded in custody, before his hearing at Bristol Crown Court next month. Sarah Warren, chair of governors at The Tynings, told the school's website: 'He has been remanded in custody and there is an ongoing police investigation. He has been suspended from school. 'While the investigation is underway, I am legally bound not to comment further. 'I hope you will understand that, despite your obvious concerns, we cannot go into any further detail at the moment and we will remain guided by police in terms of our comments, as we do not want to jeopardise their work. 'We will continue to work closely with South Gloucestershire Council and the police. 'Further, it will not help the police investigation for there to be any speculation on social media or anywhere else as to any of the details of this matter. 'We know that this will be of concern to you, so we will be organising a meeting for parents and further details about the arrangements (for) this will follow.' The Tynings Primary School has 320 pupils aged four to 11 and was praised by Ofsted inspectors last year. Police were there this morning as worried parents dropped off their children. Four officers in two marked cars were sent to the school gates but they left as school started. One mother, who preferred not to be named, said she was sickened at the revelations. She said: 'I'm disgusted and appalled. We found out yesterday - I've had three children at this school, all since he's been here. 'They've all been here since day dot. My 12-year-old started here the day he did. 'I feel disgusted. You put your children somewhere where you expect them to be in safe hands.' It is not know whether the alleged offences relate to incidents at the school, which has 320 pupils A father said parents were informed that Yates would not be returning to the school by text at 5.30pm yesterday- after he had appeared in court. The father, who also asked for anonymity, said he was so upset he was removing his young daughter from the school. He said: 'There's a bad atmosphere at the school and a lot of rumours going around.' Avon and Somerset Police said: 'A 45-year-old man has been charged with three counts of making indecent images of children and two counts of voyeurism. 'Ashley Jonathan Yates, of Filton, appeared at Bristol Magistrates Court. He was remanded in custody pending appearance at Bristol Crown Court on July 19.' The Tynings Primary School has 320 pupils aged four to 11 and was praised by Ofsted inspectors last year It was given a 'good' rating, two years after being rated as requiring improvement. Inspectors praised the school's safe environment, where they said bullying was rare and discrimination is 'not tolerated'. The report said: 'The headteacher has risen very well to the challenge of moving the school forward. 'Working as an effective team, he and the senior leaders have successfully improved the quality of teaching and raised achievement.' Vendetta: Stately home owner Teresa Ward, 61, who was hit with a 10,000 fine for lying about a 100 speeding ticket was caught because she tried to pin the blame on her ex-partner, it has emerged The wealthy stately home owner who was hit with a 10,000 fine for lying about a 100 speeding ticket was caught because she tried to pin the blame on a former lover, it has emerged. Businesswoman Teresa Ward, 61, claimed her ex-partner only identified in court as Mr Hill was at the wheel of her Mercedes when it was clocked at 8mph above the speed limit in a 30mph zone. She was sent a notice by police but fraudulently filled in a form with a fake signature on it as part of a 'vendetta' against her former partner, a court heard. Chelmsford Crown Court was told how instead of admitting the offence, Ward blamed Mr Hill, who it later emerged was on holiday at the time of the offence. It is still not known who was driving her car. Had Ward admitted the offence she could have escaped with just a 100 speeding ticket. As it was she lied and was found guilty of perverting the course of justice. She was handed a four-month suspended sentence and ordered to pay a 10,000 fine and 4,500 in costs. Ward, who bought 4.25million Boreham House in Essex in 2008, was given 36 days to pay the fine or face six months in jail. Her Mercedes was caught on camera travelling at 38mph in a 30mph zone on the A414 Maldon Road in Danbury just after 12.20pm on February 13, 2014. When a notice of intended prosecution was sent to her, Ward, of Main Road, Boreham, responded saying that the car was being driven by someone else at the time of the offence. Investigations later revealed that the man she blamed, Mr Hill, wasnt in the UK at the time of the offence and could not have been driving the vehicle. Ward, who also owns the luxury wedding venue Vaulty Manor in Maldon, Essex, and a 19th century chateau in France, was reported to court for perverting the course of justice and stood trial on June 20. Thomas Quinn, mitigating, said: 'She has 26,300 disposable income and her total savings are 20,839. 'She has a conditional offer on a property, Chateau Estefani, due on July 1. It's been on the market for about five years. 'There is an 80 per cent mortgage for Vaulty Manor and she has developed it into a 3million property. Her dividends are 80,000. 'She is someone who has had a difficult upbringing and finds it difficult to talk about. She was brought up by her mother and lived from hand to mouth for a period of time. Ward (pictured with her new husband Colin McGregor) was convicted at Chelmsford Crown Court of perverting the course of justice. She was handed a four-month suspended sentence and ordered to pay a 10,000 fine Picturesque: Had she admitted to travelling at 38mph in a 30mph zone Ward could have escaped with just a 100 speeding ticket. Boreham House (pictured) is a Grade I listed mansion popular with wedding parties 'Her husband died when she was in her 30s and she was left to bring up her two children. She was a workaholic. 'The break up with her ex-partner was acrimonious and she is now happily remarried.' When sentencing Ward, Judge Christopher Ball QC said he would make an example of her corrupting the system. Ward claimed her ex-partner Mr Hill was at the wheel of her Mercedes when it was clocked at 8mph above the speed limit in a 30mph zone. She blamed him as part of a vendetta against him, a court heard He said: 'The court has to deal with a number of these types of cases and some have trivial beginnings. 'A lot end up in the dock at the crown court because they told a little lie to begin with to avoid the consequences of a minor traffic infringement. 'When people won't come clean, they dig themselves in deeper and deeper and that's what you have done. 'We have to take the opportunity of making examples out of people. You implicated Mr Hill in part of a vendetta because of an acrimonious break up. 'I don't know if you were covering up for you or your son or a member of staff. 'You have escaped custody by the skin of your teeth.' Essex Police's Chris Sydric said: 'Had Ward admitted that she was driving the car at the time of the speeding offence or provided the correct details as to who was driving, then Ward or the driver may have been offered the opportunity to take part in a National Driver Re-training Course and avoid prosecution or points on their driving licence. 'The alternative would have been to pay a fine and receive three points. 'However rather than accept responsibility, Ward chose to try and lie her way out of the problem and now has to pay a hefty fine or face imprisonment.' He added: 'I hope this case serves as a strong reminder to people that speeding notices like this shouldnt be ignored. 'If one drops through your letterbox, please make sure you provide police with the correct details of who was driving your vehicle at the time of the offence. 'If you dont, you could find us knocking at your door.' Boreham House is a Grade I listed mansion popular with wedding parties because of its picturesque surroundings. It was built from 1728 to 1733 and later bought by Henry Ford in 1931. He set up Fordson Estates Ltd there before the stately home was eventually passed onto Ford Motor company in 1952. Utah Republican senator Mike Lee is still sore at Donald Trump for Trump's explosive comments linking Ted Cruz's dad to the Kennedy assassination during their heated primary campaign and is withholding his endorsement because of it. 'He's wildly unpopular in my state,' Lee told Newsmax host Steve Malzberg in an interview where the senator got perturbed when pressed about why he wasn't backing Trump over Democrat Hillary Clinton. 'I mean we can get into the fact that he accused my best friend's father of conspiring to kill JFK,' Lee fumed. 'He said that. He actually said that -- without a scintilla of evidence. That concerns me,' Lee added. Utah senator Mike Lee is withholding his support from Donald Trump, whom he says is 'wildly unpopular' in his state 'We can go through the fact that he has made some statements that some have identified correctly as religiously intolerance.' Lee referenced Trump's comments about Muslims, saying and said the issue of intolerance has resonance because of Utah's Mormon population. 'We can get into the fact that he is so unpopular because my sate consists of members who were a religious minority church,' he said. 'My state consists of people who are members of a religious minority church a people who were ordered exterminated by the governor of Missouri in 1838 and statements like that make them nervous,' Lee continued. During the primary, Trump picked up on a National Enquirer story based off a grainy photo that purported to show Rafael Cruz pictured alongside Kennedy assassin Lee Harvey Oswald. 'His father was with Lee Harvey Oswald prior to Oswald's being you know, shot. I mean, the whole thing is ridiculous,' Trump told Fox News at the time. 'What is this, right prior to his being shot, and nobody even brings it up. They don't even talk about that. That was reported, and nobody talks about it.' 'I mean, what was he doing what was he doing with Lee Harvey Oswald shortly before the death? Before the shooting?' Trump asked. 'It's horrible.' Busom buddies: Lee said he still had concerns about Trump because of how he treated 'my best friend' failed GOP presidential candidate Ted Cruz Lee faces a little known Democratic opponent, Misty Snow, who is the first transgender nominee to win a major party nomination Malzberg pressed Lee on his decision rattling off a list of concerns about Hillary Clinton ranging from her email scandal to donors to the Clinton foundation. Lee pushed back: 'Don't sit here and tell me, Steve, that I have no reason to be concerned about Donald Trump.' 'These things are not something that I couldn't get over if I heard the right things out of him,' Lee said -- leaving the door open a crack. 'I hope I can get over this, because I can't vote for Hillary,' Lee said. 'What I am saying is Donald Trump can still can still get a vote from a lot of conservatives like me, but I would like some assurances on where he stands. I would like some assurances that he is going to be a vigorous defender of the U.S. Constitution that he is not going to be an autocrat. That he is not going to be an authoritarian. That he is not somebody who is going to abuse a document that I have sworn an oath to uphold and protect and defend.' A mother accused of killing her young daughter and two nieces in a horrific car crash because she was using the Facebook messaging app while driving has been acquitted on all counts. Kari Jo Milberg, 35, of Centuria, Wisconsin, was behind the wheel in December 12, 2013, when her car hit another vehicle on Highway 35 near 468th street in Prescott. Milberg's daughter Lydia, 11, was instantly killed. Her two nieces, both five, Clara Pavek and Laynie Jo Amos, later died in the hospital. Scroll down for video After being acquitted, Milberg left the courthouse with her attorney and didn't answer any questions Kari Jo Milberg (above) reaches for her head when the judge reads out the not guilty verdict - a local reporter said gasps could be heard in the courtroom Investigators found Milberg's cell phone four months after the crash; prosecutors were able to find Facebook messages to a man seconds before the crash happened Milberg was charged with three counts of homicide by negligent operation of a motor vehicle and a single misdemeanor count of reckless driving. Prosecutors introduced evidence that Milberg was messaging a man on Facebook just 19 seconds before the car crashed. But the jury couldn't overcome reasonable doubt that the slippery, snowy road that day, combined with the car's worn tires, were the real cause of the tragic accident, reports WCCO . Kari Jo Milberg, 35, was accused of messaging on Facebook while driving, causing a car crash that took three small lives, she was acquitted on all counts of negligent homicide Crash victims: (Left to right) Easton Milberg, 3, the driver's son, survived the crash, but Clara Pavek and Laynie Jo Amos - both five - died in hospital. Their aunt, Kari J. Milberg, was found not guilty of being negligent in their deaths The prosecution presented evidence that a 911 call about the accident came in a mere 19 seconds after Milberg had sent her last message to a man named Jason McKenzie. The two were planning a lunch date and joking about being nervous, according to KTLA . When McKenzie took the stand, he was reportedly hostile, claimed he didn't remember messaging with Milberg, and said 'I just heard there was an accident' The mom's phone wasn't found until four months after the accident, when snow melted. In court, Milberg's defense attorney at one point suggested that perhaps it was Milberg's 11-year-old daughter, Lydia, who perished, who had been texting, not her mom. Tragedy: Kari J. Milberg, 35 (left), was using Facebook while driving when she lost control of her SUV in December 2013, causing a crash that killed her daughter Lydia, 11 (right) and two nieces Cousins Laynie, left and Clara, right, were inseparable and loved their older cousin, Lydia, 11 - all were tragically killed in the December 2013 car crash 'Who was using the phone?' attorney Aaron Nelson asked the judge, according to Fox9. 'No one in the car can testify as to who was using the phone.' A state mechanical inspector said that Milberg's brakes and steering were working, and although her tires were worn, they were still legal, reported KTLA. A recording of two truckers who witnessed the accident was played in court, with the truckers saying that conditions were slippery, and noting that the mom's car appeared to have lost control. Nelson put the blame squarely on the poor road conditions and worn tires, saying, 'A single mom, raising two kids, doing everything she can, and she didnt get new tires when she should have. That aint a crime.' Scene: The crash, where three children suffered fatal injuries in western Wisconsin Each of the nieces who died in the wreck were the daughters of Milberg's two sisters, meaning all three women lost a daughter in the tragedy. Milberg did not testify in the trial. Her attorney argued that she didn't remember the crash and suffers from amnesia and brain damage. Milberg was in a coma for an unspecified period of time after the accident. Medical experts agreed that Milberg suffers from retrograde amnesia and couldn't remember the events leading up to the crash. Nelson tried to get her declared incompetent to stand trial, but the judge said she was competent enough to assist in her own defense. The tragedy has divided the once-tight family. Clara's father, Michael Pavek, once Milberg's father-in-law, said he was enraged by the verdict. He plans to speak to the media. At one point during the trial, the grieving father sat in the courtroom holding a picture of daughter Clara. When Judge Boles told him to remove it, Pavek left the courthouse. Milberg's young son, Easton, then three, was also in the crash but survived. Milberg hit a truck driver, 24-year-old Jose Mendoza, and he and his two passengers were not injured. Mendoza was not ticketed. Police found prescription Oxycodone in Milberg's purse. The North Dakota Industrial Commission on Wednesday suspended a $950,000 fine against a trucking company accused of illegal dumping after the company filed an appeal in district court. Commissioners also ordered Black Hills Trucking to post a $45,000 bond, the amount state regulators estimate it would cost to clean up contamination from saltwater that was dumped on a Williams County gravel road in 2014. Black Hills Trucking is appealing the fine in Northwest Judicial District Court, arguing that the Industrial Commission does not have the authority to impose such a fine. An administrative law judge found that the state Industrial Commission lacked authority to impose fines for the illegal disposal of produced water, a waste byproduct of oil production, on North Dakota roads. Judge Patrick Ward also found that the $950,000 penalty was not reasonable and recommended that the commission dismiss the complaint against Black Hills Trucking. The commission decided in April to reject the judges recommendation and pursue the penalty, knowing the company would likely appeal. Black Hills Trucking, part of True Companies of Wyoming, denies the Industrial Commissions allegations of illegal dumping and says in court records the Industrial Commission failed to present sufficient evidence. Regulators allege that surveillance equipment recorded the companys trucks dumping produced water on a gravel road in February and March of 2014. An employee of Black Hills Trucking pleaded guilty to a criminal charge related to violating the commissions rules. The Department of Mineral Resources has been trying to get the company to clean up the site, said Director Lynn Helms. Youve got salt-contaminated material in the roadbed now that potentially could contaminate the soil adjacent to the road, Helms said. The North Dakota Department of Health, which also fined Black Hills Trucking related to the incidents, did not require remediation of the road. The health department fined the company to $200,000 with $259,000 suspended if the company followed terms of a settlement agreement. A hearing in the appeal has not yet been scheduled. The parties were ordered to submit records from the administrative proceeding by Friday. Everyone knows cigarettes are bad for your health... but this smoker has taken the risks to a whole new level. The nicotine fan from China was filmed with about 10 in one nostril, 14 in the other, and around 18 in his mouth - all of them lit - before munching on them. The bizarre footage of his facial orifices filled with burning cigarettes was shot in Baishan, Jilin Province in early June. The man, who appears to be in his twenties, then takes them out, clutching them all in one hand and proceeds to chew some of them while he winces with pain. As to whether he could sustain such a strange habit is another question - because it wouldn't be cheap. Cigarette sales in China fell slightly over the past year after a hike in tobacco taxes, as the country works to suppress a habit with major healthcare costs, according to the World Health Organisation. What do they call you? Cram-bo? The nicotine fan from China was filmed with about 10 in one nostril, 14 in the other, and around 18 in his mouth - all of them lit The world's largest producer and consumer of cigarettes has stepped up its battle on smoking, despite persistent opposition from the tobacco industry. China has 300million smokers and 740million more who are exposed to secondhand smoke, state media have said. The number of cigarettes sold in China fell 3.3 percent in the year to March 2016 from the previous year, the WHO said in a statement in May. Cigarettes can damage your health even more if you try to eat them... The bizarre footage of his facial orifices filled with burning cigarettes was shot in Baishan, Jilin Province in early June Sales of the cheapest cigarettes fell 5.5 per cent over the period, the WHO added, signalling that the tax prompted poor smokers, in particular, to cut back on cigarette purchases. Last year, China hiked its wholesale tax rate on cigarettes to 11 per cent from 5 per cent, an increase the WHO said earned revenue of about 70 billion yuan (8bn) for the central government in 2015. Chaos erupted at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Thursday morning after an active shooter drill prompt reports of a 'real world' shooter. The base was placed on lockdown at 9am Eastern Time - just minutes before Vice President Joe Biden was due to arrive to board a plane to Ohio. All personnel were ordered to shelter in place, and people were seen running through the base with their hands in the air. It came at exactly the same time that they were scheduled to start an active shooter training exercise. At 10.45am, officials declared no active shooter had been found in the base's Malcolm Grow Medical Facility. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Chaos erupted at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland after an shooter drill prompt reports of a 'real world' shooter 9am: Officials tweeted that the situation was centered on the base's Malcolm Grow Medical Facility The situation dragged on for more than an hour. This was an update posted half way through on Facebook 10.45am: After an hour and 45 minutes, officials tweeted that there was no evidence of a shooter Biden was scheduled to fly out of Joint Base Andrews on Thursday morning to give a noon address on cancer treatment and funding in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. As the situation unfolded, he waited at the Naval Observatory for further information. 'First it was an active-shooter exercise. Then it came back "real world,"' Rodney Smith, a patient advocate at the medical facility, told the Associated Press by phone. He said the situation was at the newer of two buildings at the Malcolm Grow Medical Facility on the base. He was in the older building. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson called the incident an 'unfolding situation' as he spoke at the Senate Judiciary Committees hearing on oversight of the Department of Homeland Security. First responders are on the scene, according to the Joint Base's Twitter account. The base is in Prince George's County, 15 miles from the White House. It is the home base of Air Force One, the two Boeing VC-25A aircraft which the president flies on. Security has also been tightened at the nearby Ft Belvoir, Naval Observatory, and Navy Yard. President Barack Obama was not scheduled to use the base on Thursday. The U.S. military has been on high alert for possible attacks at U.S. locations after incidents such as the July 2015 shooting rampage that killed five service members at two military offices in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the 2009 shooting at a U.S. Army base in Fort Hood, Texas, in which a gunman killed 13 people. Malcolm Grow is a full-service military hospital which according to its website is affiliated with the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences and serves as a training facility for 48 medical residents and 31 health professionals. It came at the same time that an active shooter training exercise was due to start at the base California highway patrol officers found themselves engaged in the most bizarre pursuit of their lives Sunday when they got caught up in a high-speed chase with a man on a go-kart. Cops in a patrol SUV were filmed chasing - and apparently failing to stop - a man racing down Interstate 880 in Oakland on a small blue go-kart. The footage, filmed on Snapchat and posted on Twitter by local musician @tonka_boy_dre, shows onlookers reacting with joy to the extraordinary sight, ABC News reported. Karted off: Videos show an unnamed man driving a go-kart through Oakland on Interstate 880 while a Police SUV follows in hot pursuit Speed demon: The kart driver seems unbothered by the police presence. A witness said that locals have an annual go-kart and dirt bike meeting, and sometimes go onto the highway One video is shot from the sidelines of the interstate, as a group of bystanders cheer on the go-karter, who appears to be a white man wearing a striped shirt and khaki shorts. The kart racer gives them a cheerful wave as they cheer his passage. A Snapchat message across the video reads 'MOBBIN'. Another video, apparently shot by holding a phone out of a car window, shows the police, lights flashing, just a few feet behind the same man, who shows no signs of slowing down. This clip's Snapchat message here reads 'High speed on the go-kart tho.' It also says 'Lake Merritt, Oakland, California.' Part of Interstate 880 runs alongside Lake Merritt. 'This chase happened this past Sunday,' Tonka Dre explained on Twitter. 'Local guys have an annual go kart and dirt bike ride throughout Oakland and sometimes jump on the freeway. 'Well this guy was the last of the pack who was being chased by the police.' The video was shot near Laney College and the interstate's 23rd exit. Oakland Traffic Police were not immediately available for comment. Drive-by: The man on the kart was a straggler in the highway group, which is why he was being chased, the witness said Former Vice President Al Gore's daughter was among 23 people arrested during a protest of a pipeline under construction. The arrests happened Wednesday at the site of Spectra Energy's West Roxbury Lateral pipeline in Boston. Karenna Gore was among demonstrators who tried to block construction activity on the site by lying in a trench dug for the pipeline and refusing to move until firefighters removed them, said protest group Resist the Pipeline & Stop the West Roxbury Lateral. The group opposes the pipeline because of safety and climate change concerns. Protesters facing trespassing and disturbing the peace charges were being arraigned Thursday. Scroll down for video Karenna Gore, daughter of former Vice President Al Gore protests at the site of Spectra Energy's West Roxbury Lateral pipeline in Boston on Wednesday Gore, who serves as director of the Center for Earth Ethics at the Union Theological Seminary in New York, and others facing resisting arrest charges will be arraigned Friday She was among demonstrators who tried to block construction activity on the site by lying in a trench dug for the pipeline and refusing to move until firefighters removed them, said protest group Resist the Pipeline & Stop the West Roxbury Lateral Protesters are seen holding signs opposing the pipeline Gore said in an email that she was honored to be part of the protest 'as they made the case that there are higher moral principles at stake here that merit nonviolent civil disobedience' Protesters said Buddhist, Jewish and Christian clergy members were among those charged with resisting arrest, as was noted climate change activist Tim DeChristopher, who a few years ago tried to stop drilling operations in Utah Gore, who serves as director of the Center for Earth Ethics at the Union Theological Seminary in New York, and others facing resisting arrest charges will be arraigned Friday. Gore said in an email that she was honored to be part of the protest 'as they made the case that there are higher moral principles at stake here that merit nonviolent civil disobedience'. 'The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission should be helping us transition to renewable energy like solar and wind but instead they almost always defer to the fossil fuel industry,' she wrote. Gore wrote that: 'The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission should be helping us transition to renewable energy like solar and wind but instead they almost always defer to the fossil fuel industry' A woman is seen being handcuffed by police officers. Houston-based Spectra Energy Corp. said it does not condone actions that take first responders away from their duties The 5-mile pipeline is part of a larger, roughly $1billion plan to expand natural gas capacity in New England Al Gore, who served as vice president under Democratic President Bill Clinton, said he was proud of his daughter. 'We are facing an existential crisis and should speed up the transition away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy and a decarbonized economy,' he said through a spokeswoman. Houston-based Spectra Energy Corp. said it does not condone actions that take first responders away from their duties. Karenna Gore Schiff, daughter of Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Al Gore, speaks at the Democratic National Convention in this 2000 file photo Al Gore, who served as vice president under Democratic President Bill Clinton, said he was proud of his daughter. They are seen together in this June 2014 file photo 'Our pipelines provide a vital source of reliable, affordable energy for the nation's homes, hospitals, businesses and schools. Low energy prices help everyone, particularly those least able to pay their bills,' company spokesman Creighton Welch said in a statement. The 5-mile pipeline is part of a larger, roughly $1billion plan to expand natural gas capacity in New England. Video courtesy of Kori Feener Protesters said Buddhist, Jewish and Christian clergy members were among those charged with resisting arrest, as was noted climate change activist Tim DeChristopher, who a few years ago tried to stop drilling operations in Utah. 'We can no longer pretend like what Spectra is doing here in West Roxbury is anything other than digging a mass grave,' DeChristopher said in remarks at the protest. Officers caught her after finding her diary tracking his movements She reported him to police 134 times for fake crimes including rape They had only dated for a few weeks but led to decade-long campaign Sandra Danevska subjected her ex-boyfriend to years of stalking and harassment, and even created more than 130 false crime reports accusing him of rape, acid attacks and stabbings, a court heard A jilted girlfriend tried to frame her ex for more than 130 fake crimes - including rape, acid attacks and stabbings - because he dumped her after just a few weeks. Sandra Danevska, 38, lingered at her ex-boyfriend's address and sent hundreds of hoax online crime reports to harass him and eventually two of his new partners - despite the relationship ending over a decade earlier. Her bitter vendetta led to her former boyfriend being implicated as a suspect for rape, acid attacks and stabbings - while she also subjected two women he went on to date to hate campaigns. But Danevska covered her tracks so well she avoided police action for years - before a search warrant led to officers finding a diary where she wrote down all of her ex's movements. Danevska, of Hammersmith, west London, was fixated on getting revenge by sending 134 bogus online reports to police about her entirely innocent ex. It resulted in 170 needless Met Police dispatch logs being created as a result. She was found guilty of three counts of stalking involving serious alarm or distress and two counts of perverting the course of justice at at Isleworth Crown Court. Danevska and the ex - named only as 'Victim 1' - first dated for a number of weeks around 10 years ago - but got back together briefly in 2013. The 45-year-old man then decided he simply wanted to remain friends. But spurned Danevska could not handle the rejection, and repeatedly stalked his new girlfriends. She set up bogus social media profiles and fake email addresses in her ex-boyfriend's name to send threatening and malicious messages to other people, also using multiple mobile phones to make silent calls and send text messages to him. By 2014, Danevska ramped up her campaign and was sending 'Victim 1' almost daily emails from unknown accounts commenting on things he had done during the day, leaving him to live in the fear that he was being followed. Danevska then subjected him and the two women he later went out with, aged 34 and 37, to repeated stalking and harassment. As well as the direct contact, vengeful Danevska wanted to framer her ex for crimes he hadn't committed. Using the details of 60 different people, she created 134 hoax online crime reports to implicate him as a suspect in crimes -so police had to visit his home 42 times and his place of work 10 times in response. Danevska's made-up victims were reporting that he had stabbed, raped or thrown acid in their faces. A 34-year-old woman - named as 'Victim 2' - went out with Danevska's ex in 2010. She also received threatening and malicious text messages and emails using multiple social media accounts. Another woman, 37, known as 'Victim 3', was the girlfriend of the man for a year from October 2012 until October 2013. As well as receiving malicious messages, commenting on her daily movements, Danevska made it look as though Victim 3 was making crime reports, with police visiting her home repeatedly. It took officers four years to trace her and she always covered her tracks in such a way she couldn't be identified. After a four-year investigation a series of bogus social media profiles were traced to various addresses in 2015 - who were were employing Danevska as a nanny. Danevska was found guilty of stalking and perverting the course of justice at Isleworth Crown Court, pictured Detective Constable Dean Puzey, of Hammersmith and Fulham CID, said: 'This woman's actions caused her victims unimaginable distress. 'Danevska stalked multiple victims and used social media and the police crime reporting system to make their lives intolerable. 'Her ex-boyfriend, an entirely innocent man, found himself a suspect for rape, stabbings and acid attacks - the impact on his life in particular was horrendous. 'Her actions also caused a massive waste of police time. Throughout Danevska's campaign, 17 of London's 32 boroughs responded to bogus reports of crime as a result of her malicious calls; her vendetta was a huge drain on police resources. 'Thankfully cases of multiple stalking are very rare and, despite all her efforts to avoid detection, we have finally been able to bring her to justice.' Danevska's home was searched after a police warrant in May 2015, where they seized SIM cards, computer equipment and a diary where she took down the movements of 'Victim 1'. Donald Trump told Boston radio host Howie Carra to 'never apologize' after Carr yelled out Indian war whoops at a Trump rally, the radio host claims. In offering his advice, Trump referenced former CBS announcer Jimmy the Greek, who apologized after making racially incendiary comments, according to the host. Carr delivered the war whoops while introducing Trump at his rally in Maine Wednesday night as he mocked senator Elizabeth Warren, who Trump himself has mocked as 'Pocahontas' for her disputed claims of native american heritage. The war whoop drew immediate media attention online, but Carr says Trump stood by him when they talked about the incident on Trump's plane. Whatever you do, dont apologize, he Carr wrote that Trump told him. You never hear me apologize, do you? Thats what killed Jimmy the Greek way back. Remember? He was doing okay til he said he was sorry. Donald Trump told Boston radio host Howie Carr not to apologize, the host wrote Trump's comment was a reference to CBS host Jimmy 'the Greek' Snyder, who apologized and still lost his hosting job after saying blacks were 'bred' to be athletes. 'Blacks are 'bred to be the better athlete ... This goes back all the way to the Civil War when, during the slave trading, the owner, the slave owner, would breed his big black to his big woman so that he would have a big black kid, see? That's where it all started,' Snyder had said on the air in 1988. Carr said he yelled out the 'war whoop' spontaneously while referring to Warren. 'You know Elizabeth Warren, right?' the conservative host said, then erupted into war whoops while placing his hand over his mouth. Scroll down for video On Wednesday while speaking in Maine during a rally for the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, radio host Howie Carr used the Indian 'war whoop' gesture (pictured) while referring to Warren In urging Carr not to apologize, Trump brought up Jimmy 'The Greek' Snyder 'Elizabeth Warren said, or maybe it was Hillary, she said the only people for Donald Trump are rich guys,' Carr continued, according to Politico. 'Are any of you guys out there rich guys? I don't see too many rich guys out here today. Except me. Did I hear that? I didn't come here to be made sport of,' he said. In response to criticism following Wednesday's incident, Carr told Daily Mail Online he did not understand what the problem is. 'She's not a Native American. This is between two white people here,' he said. 'This is something that I have said repeatedly, what [Warren's former Senate opponent Republican] Scott Brown has said repeatedly, I'm glad it's getting attention,' he continued as he spoke to Daily Mail Online. 'I challenged her repeatedly for at least four years to get a DNA test to settle this once and for all and so has Scott Brown. 'She refuses to get a DNA test and release employment records to prove she is an Indian.' 'If you're a federally recognized Native American, you have a card issued by the bureau of Indian affairs. I'd like to know if she has such a card,' he said. 'I don't think she does or she would have provided it to the media years earlier.' Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren pictured above on Wednesday. On Monday Warren appeared alongside Clinton on the campaign trail in what looked like a tryout for a potential running mate Donald Trump called Warren 'Pocahontas' and 'very racist' earlier this week for her past claims of native american ancestry Carr also noted that the push back he has received following Wednesday's incident is 'an example of the double standard in the media'. He referenced several incidents including when Joe Biden 'said you have to have a slight Indian accent to go into a Dunkin Donut in Delaware' and Harry Reid reportedly saying President Barack Obama could be a successful candidate due to his speaking patterns with no Negro dialect. 'She is a fraud that's what this is all about. I want her to take the DNA test, that's all,' Carr told Daily Mail Online. Trump himself on Monday ripped Warren as 'very racist' for her past claims of Indian ancestry. 'She made up her heritage, which I think is racist. I think she's a racist, actually because what she did was very racist,' Trump told NBC. 'What she did was very racist,' Trump continued. The charge stems from Warren's 2012 Senate campaign against then-Senator Scott Brown, when it came out that Warren had listed herself as a minority when she was a faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania Law school and at Harvard law. Warren has said she believed she had Cherokee ancestors and denied she invented the heritage to gain a leg up in academia. Everyone on our mothers side aunts, uncles, and grandparents talked openly about their Native American ancestry, Warren wrote in her memoir in 2014. 'She said she's five per cent Native American. She was unable to prove it. She used the fact that she was Native American to advance her career,' Trump said. 'Elizabeth Warren is a total fraud. I know it. Other people who work with her know it. Elizabeth Warren is a total fraud,' Trump added. Warren repeatedly went after Trump in personal terms, repeating her line that Trump is a 'money grubber' Trump went after the Democratic liberal firebrand on Monday when Warren appeared alongside Clinton on the campaign trail in what looked like a tryout for a potential running mate. Warren repeatedly went after Trump in personal terms, repeating her line that Trump is a 'money grubber,' then kept hitting, all but ensuring a slug-fest if for some reason Trump were in the mood to keep quiet. 'When Donald Trump says he'll make America great, he means make it even greater for rich guys just like Donald Trump,' Warren charged. 'That's who Donald Trump is - the guy who wants it all for himself.' She called him 'a nasty man who will never become president of the United States and a 'thin-skinned bully. 'Watch out, he will crush you into the dirt to get whatever he wants,' Warren said. Now that Warren has endorsed Clinton, there has been increasing talk that Clinton should select her as a way to unite the party and appeal to the progressive Bernie Sanders wing. Trump started the attack Monday morning when he said Warren 'lied on heritage' (shown above) Trump refashioned his 'goofy' and 'Pocahontas' attacks on Warren (shown above) 'Everyone on our mother's side aunts, uncles, and grandparents talked openly about their Native American ancestry,' Warren wrote in her memoir in 2014. 'My brothers and I grew up on stories about our grandfather building one-room schoolhouses and about our grandparents' courtship and their early lives together in Indian Territory.' Detailed reporting at the time failed to confirm the legitimacy of the claim. On Tuesday, Warren answered a round of questions on The View, including one about Trump calling her Pocahontas. Warren spoke with the ladies of The View on Tuesday, a day after campaigning for the first time in person beside the Democrats' likely nominee Hillary Clinton 'What this is really about is can they bully me into shutting up, can they just be nasty enough and ugly enough in my direction that I'll say 'Oh,' and just go back into the shadows,' the senator said. 'And the answer is nope, not happening.' While on The View, she denied that claiming to be 1/32nd Cherokee may have given her preferential treatment in university hiring. 'Look, I'm like most people, my brothers and I learned about who we are from our families,' she explained. 'And people who have hired me for my jobs who work on stuff all said that my background didn't have anything to do with it and mostly didn't know about it,' she said of her Native American heritage. Moving on, Warren stayed mum about the veepstakes when asked about it several times. Last week on the 'O'Reilly Factor' on Fox, Trump issued what sounded like a faux apology for the 'Pocohantas' line. 'I do regret calling her Pocahontas, because I think it's a tremendous insult to Pocahontas,' Trump said. Police were called to a third-grade party at a New Jersey high school after a student was accused of racism for saying the word brownies, a mother has claimed. Stacy dos Santos said officers were called to speak with her nine-year-old son at William P. Tatem Elementary School two weeks ago after another student overheard him talking about the party. Dos Santos said her son was discussing snacks handed out to the class when he mentioned the word 'brownie', but another student misinterpreted it and accused him of being racist. Stacy dos Santos says her nine-year-old son was quizzed by police during a third-grade party at William P. Tatem Elementary School, New Jersey, after he used the word 'brownies' That prompted school staff to call the police who referred the incident to the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency, while the boy also missed his last day of third grade. She told the Philadelphia Inquirer that her son was left 'traumatized' after being grilled by a cop over his use of language, and believes that school staff overreacted. 'I'm not comfortable with the administration [at Tatem]. I don't trust them and neither does my child,' said Dos Santos. 'He was intimidated, obviously. There was a police officer with a gun in the holster talking to my son, saying: "Tell me what you said." He didn't have anybody on his side.' Dos Santos said that she graduated from the Collingswood, New Jersey, school system and has an older child, 21, who was also educated there. But now she says she has lost faith in those running the district, and wants to move her nine-year-old elsewhere, and will consider doing the same with her third child, aged three. Dos Santos says her son was simply referring to the baked snack that had been handed out during the party when another student overheard and accused him of racism, prompting staff to call the cops The incident has outraged some parents who believe police are being called too frequently into classrooms to resolve disputes that should be left to teachers. Collingswood Superintendent Scott Oswald estimated that over the past month, police were called to as many as five incidents per day across the district of 1,875 students. Nationwide, many people have raised concerns over the increasing presence of police in schools, particularly in the form of School Resource Officers. It is estimated that there are around 43,000 sworn police officers working in schools nationwide, alongside 39,000 security guards. Megan Irwin, who has two daughters in the Collingswood system and teaches at a school nearby, questioned some of the incidents police were being called to. The TSA is considering put security check points in airport parking lots and on curbs outside terminal buildings in the wake of the Turkey bombings. The talks of enhanced security come as millions of Americans face travel chaos over the Fourth of July weekend. The embattled agency has faced mounting criticism over huge waiting times in terminal buildings across the country. But the recent terrorist attack in Istanbul that left 42 people dead means airport checks could be beefed up. It is not known how the extra screenings will be conducted, but reports suggest it would not be as extensive as the checks carried out before passengers arrive at departure gates. Scroll down for video The TSA is considering put security check points in airport parking lots and on curbs outside terminal buildings in the wake of the Turkey bombings (file picture) John Pistole, a former TSA administrator, told Fox News the agency is looking into implementing minimal screening procedures at airport parking lots. 'There is going to be a line some place. There is going to be a queue of people that are going through some type of security,' he said. 'LAX and some other airports on random basis will set up a police control for traffic coming in to the terminals. 'But still, you get a lineup of cars there so there is always going to be some place that will be vulnerable as a soft target. Aviation security expert Denny Kelly told CBS11: 'Everyone's talking about it. They're talking about it in terms of, 'Can we do this? And if we do it, what's it going to us''? 'People are going to be late for their flights and miss their flights,' he said. 'Even then it's not gonna because if someone is willing to give up their life, you're not gonna stop them by putting a mirror under their car,' he said Air travelers are set to face heightened security and increased delays due to the deadly attack. Airport officials were hesitant to reveal specific safety measures taken following Tuesday's attacks by suspected Islamic State militants, which killed 41 people and wounded 239 at Europe's third-busiest airport, but increased vigilance appeared to have resulted in at least one airport disruption. A terminal at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York was briefly evacuated on Wednesday morning while police investigated a report of a suspicious package. The implementation of stricter security measures will likely increase travel time this weekend, air security experts said, even as the Transportation Security Administration continues to struggle amid personnel shortages. 'If you are in a 'marquee' airport, you should absolutely allow significantly more time, on the order of 30 to 45 minutes,' said Bruce McIndoe, the chief executive officer of travel risk advisory company iJet International. Authorities can 'dial up' various security elements, from increasing the frequency of 'random' passengers selected for extra screening to turning up the sensitivity of magnetometer devices, according to McIndoe. Following the Istanbul attacks, which took place outside security checkpoints, U.S. airports are likely to focus on surveillance and armed personnel in similar public spaces not subject to screening, McIndoe said. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees operations at the three major airports in the New York City area, said in a statement that police had added 'high visibility patrols with tactical weapons and equipment.' The agency said it had already put in place counterterrorism patrols at various transportation hubs following the mass shooting in Orlando earlier this month. Agencies in charge of other major airports, including Reagan and Dulles in the Washington, D.C. area, Logan in Boston, O'Hare in Chicago, Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta and Dallas/Fort Worth, declined to offer operational details but emphasized that security remains their top priority. The talks of enhanced security come as millions of Americans face travel chaos over the Fourth of July weekend. Passengers have been told to allow for 45 minutes extra if they are flying 'Logan maintains an enhanced security posture,' said an spokeswoman for the Massachusetts Port Authority. 'There are many elements that are seen and unseen.' The security measures are not limited to airports. New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton told reporters on Wednesday that there will be more officers, including a counterterrorism unit, present at the city's July 4th celebrations. Meanwhile, Amtrak said it had 'robust security measures' in place and was working with other agencies to gather intelligence following the Istanbul attacks. A record number of Americans, 43 million, are expected to travel between June 30 and July 4, according to AAA. The vast majority will go by car, AAA said, but 3.3 million are expected to fly. That is more than 25 percent higher that the 2.6 million AAA projected to fly during Memorial Day weekend in May, after months of widespread complaints about long security lines. The attacks in Istanbul, as well as bombings at Brussels' airport that also struck outside checkpoints, have reignited debate over whether airport screening should extend into public spaces, despite the increased inconvenience and questions about the effectiveness of such a move. But McIndoe said those proposals lead to an 'infinite loop' that has no solution; checking vehicles before they enter the airport, for instance, simply forces cars to queue up, creating a new target. Despite the spectacular massacres, he added, the chance of dying in an attack while traveling by plane is infinitesimal, given the more than 3 billion passengers that fly each year. 'You're tens of thousands of times more likely to die in an automobile accident,' he said. A mother-of-three has been banned from flying with Ryanair after she failed to stop her two-year-old son 'spitting' at other passengers as the family travelled back from Barcelona. The unnamed woman, her husband, and their three children were escorted away by police waiting at Liverpool John Lennon Airport on Wednesday evening after trouble flared in Spain and then continued on the flight back to the UK. Complaints were made by passengers about a young boy spitting at them during the boarding process at the Spanish airport. Causing trouble: A mother-of-three, who has not been named, has been banned from flying with Ryanair after she failed to stop her young son spitting at other passengers as the family travelled back from Barcelona The disruptive behaviour carried on inside the Ryanair plane as the 6.40pm flight for Merseyside prepared to take off, police said. The mother refused to control her child and became abusive to cabin crew. Passengers said the woman, in her late 20s, was threatening towards them as they urged her to keep her son under control. Ryanair contacted Merseyside Police who were waiting for the family as the plane touched down at around 8.20pm. Officers boarded the aircraft and removed the family, while other passengers were told to remain in their seats. Merseyside Police said the woman had been spoken to and warned about her behaviour but she was not arrested. The woman, her husband, and their three children were escorted away by police waiting at Liverpool John Lennon Airport (pictured) on Wednesday evening after trouble flared in Spain and then continued on the flight Ryanair did not make a formal complaint, meaning criminal action was not taken, but she was given a 'strongly-worded warning'. The airline has since banned the woman from travelling with them in the future. One passenger, who was on the flight, told the Liverpool Echo: 'As the plane pulled up at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, we were told to remain seated and things seemed to be taking longer than normal. Passengers were telling us how a boy had been spitting at people in the Barcelona departure lounge One unnamed passenger 'A police officer then went to the back of the plane, and another came in the back door. 'We saw a man and a woman, holding a small child, being escorted off the plane. A police van was parked below, on the tarmac. 'At the baggage carousel, passengers were telling us how a boy had been spitting at people in the Barcelona departure lounge, they'd asked the parents to intervene, and the mum took exception to that. 'This behaviour carried on when on the plane, threats were made by her, and there was aggression towards the Ryanair stewards. 'It was all pretty surreal.' A Ryanair spokesman said: 'The crew of this flight from Barcelona to Liverpool requested police assistance upon landing at Liverpool, after a passenger became disruptive in-flight, who was removed and detained by police. 'We will not tolerate unruly or disruptive behaviour at any time and the safety and comfort of our customers, crew and aircraft is our number one priority. A judge has demanded an urgent review into 'what went wrong' after two nurses accused of killing a woman who bled to death after travelling to Britain from Ireland for an abortion were cleared today. The case against Gemma Pullen, 32, and Margaret Miller, 55, fell apart after CPS prosecutors were forced to drop Health and Safety charges against them. Aisha Chithira, 32, died after travelling to England from Ireland to have a termination at a Marie Stopes clinic in Ealing, west London, on January 21 2012. Walking free: Gemma Pullen, 32, and Margaret Miller, 55, were accused of the manslaughter of Aisha Chithira, 32, but the case was dropped at the last minute - the judge in the case has now called for a full review The medics were initially accused of manslaughter by gross negligence and a health and safety charge. Mrs Miller, 55, and Ms Pullen, 32, were due to go on trial at the Old Bailey last week but after days of legal argument, prosecutor Sally O'Neill QC offered no evidence against the women. The case against Dr Adedayo Adedeji was also dropped. Cleared: The case against Dr Adedayo Adedeji was also dropped when the prosecution offered no evidence They were all formally acquitted of failing to take reasonable care of the health and safety of the Malawian woman contrary to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Members of Ms Chithira's grieving family were in court as the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service was announced. Judge Nicholas Cooke QC immediately demanded a review into what 'went wrong' in the CPS decision-making process, saying: 'What has occurred must not be brushed under the table.' He said what happened was 'not satisfactory' given the delay in the case which had been brought at considerable 'time and money'. He said: 'The situation that arose is most regrettable given there was a tragic death. 'What flowed from that was an enormously long period of stress and uncertainty for the bereaved family and likewise for entirely different reasons for the defendants.' However, he praised the conduct of the prosecution barristers in court. The case had been beset with problems - the key prosecution expert in the case was not in fact available to attend the trial. Aisha Chithira, 32, had travelled from Dublin to a west London branch of the Marie Stopes clinic (pictured) for the procedure on January 21, 2012 and collapsed hours later in a taxi in Slough, Berkshire Defence lawyers argued that blunder alone made it abuse of the judicial process to continue the case. Ms Aisha Chithira, 32, was 22-weeks pregnant when she underwent the operation at the Marie Stopes clinic in Ealing, west London, on 21 June 2012. She collapsed several hours later while travelling in a taxi in Slough, Berkshire, and died of 'extensive internal bleeding'. WILLISTON Worker housing man camps will continue to be in limbo in Williston, but the citys mayor said Tuesday he hopes to have a resolution by the end of July. The Williston City Commission had set a July 1 deadline for all temporary housing facilities to close, but a federal judge issued an order last week that prevents the city from enforcing it. The immediate dilemma for the city now is that without the temporary housing ordinance, the existing man camps in and around Williston are operating with permits that expired last Dec. 31. The man camps will be allowed to continue operating without permits until the city commission decides on the next step, commissioners said Tuesday. Mayor Howard Klug directed the city attorney to draft some new ordinances for commissioners to consider at their July 12 meeting. Klug said hed like the matter resolved no later than the commissions last meeting in July. Commissioners voted 3-2 last November to phase out temporary housing in Williston. But Target Logistics and Lodging Solutions, which jointly own and operate temporary housing near Williston, challenged the ordinance in court. U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Hovland ruled last week that the man camp operators are likely to prevail in their argument that the city did not follow its own rules when it approved the ordinance. The challengers say the written protests submitted by man camp owners required the city to approve the ordinance with a supermajority 4-1 vote. The judges ruling also has changed how the city is proceeding with the deadline for man camps to be removed. Two weeks ago, commissioners adopted the first reading of an ordinance that would have given camps until 2018 to either find a new purpose for the buildings or remove them and clean up the sites. Now that deadline remains in limbo also after commissioners denied the second reading of that ordinance on Tuesday. City attorney Jordon Evert recommended that city commissioners deny that ordinance because it was related to the ordinance the judge said could not be enforced. The author of 'Future Shock' which predicted much of the post-industrial age when it was published in 1970 has died. Alvin Toffler, 87, had predicted the rise of digital technology and coined the term 'information overload', passed away at his home in Bel Air. The influential author was described as a 'futurist' who like to predict the impact industrial change would have on society and managed to make it popular. His 'Future Shock' book sold more than five million copies. Future Shock author Alvin Toffler predicted the growing influence computers would have on everyday life 'Future Shock,' a term he first used in a 1965 magazine article, was how Toffler defined the growing feeling of anxiety brought on by the sense that life was changing at a bewildering and ever-accelerating pace. His book combined an understanding tone and page-turning urgency as he diagnosed contemporary trends and headlines, from war protests to the rising divorce rate, as symptoms of a historical cycle overturning every facet of life. He wrote: 'We must search out totally new ways to anchor ourselves, for all the old roots religion, nation, community, family, or profession are now shaking under the hurricane impact of the accelerative thrust.' Toffler offered a wide range of predictions and prescriptions, some more accurate than others. He forecast 'a new frontier spirit' that could well lead to underwater communities, 'artificial cities beneath the waves,' and also anticipated the founding of space colonies a concept that fascinated Toffler admirer Newt Gingrich, the former House Speaker and presidential candidate. In 'Future Shock,' released in 1970, he also presumed that the rising general prosperity of the 1960s would continue indefinitely. 'We made the mistake of believing the economists of the time,' Toffler told Wired magazine in 1993. 'They were saying, as you may recall, we've got this problem of economic growth licked. All we need to do is fine-tune the system. And we bought it.' Alvin Toffler, pictured here in 1994, wrote that the rising prosperity of the 1960s would carry on indefinitely But Toffler attracted millions of followers, including many in the business community, and the book's title became part of the general culture. Curtis Mayfield and Herbie Hancock were among the musicians who wrote songs called 'Future Shock' and the book influenced such science fiction novels as John Brunner's 'The Shockwave Rider.' More recently, Samantha Bee hosted a recurring 'Future Shock' segment on Comedy Central. Toffler is credited with another common expression, defining the feeling of being overrun with data and knowledge as 'information overload.' In the decades following 'Future Shock,' Toffler wrote such books as 'Powershift' and 'The Adaptive Corporation,' lectured worldwide, taught at several schools and met with everyone from Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to network executives and military officials. The book sold more than five million copies China cited him along with Franklin Roosevelt, Bill Gates and others as the Westerners who most influenced the country even as Communist officials censored his work. In 2002, the management consultant organization Accenture ranked him No. 8 on its list of the top 50 business intellectuals. His most famous observation: 'The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.' After 'Future Shock,' Toffler also continued to sketch out how the world was changing and how to respond. In 'The Third Wave,' a 1980 best-seller that AOL founder Steve Case would cite as a formative influence, he looked to a high-tech society that Case, Steve Jobs and others were just starting to put in place. He forecast the spread of email, telecommuting, teleconferences, interactive media, devices that remind you 'of your own appointments' and online chat rooms. Overall, he pronounced the downfall of the old centralized hierarchy and looked forward to a more dispersed and responsive society, populated by a hybrid of consumer and producer he called 'the prosumer.' Case told The Associated Press on Wednesday that Toffler was a 'real pioneer in helping people, companies and even countries lean into the future.' 'He will be missed,' Case said. Toffler collaborated on many of his books and other projects with his wife, Heidi, who survives him. He is also survived by a sister, Caroline Sitter. Toffler's daughter, Karen, died in 2000. Toffler, a native of New York City, was born Oct. 4, 1928 to Jewish Polish immigrants. A graduate of New York University, he was a Marxist and union activist in his youth, and continued to question the fundamentals of the market economy long after his politics moderated. He knew the industrial life firsthand through his years as a factory worker in Ohio. 'I got a realistic picture of how things really are made the energy, love and rage that are poured into ordinary things we take for granted,' he later wrote. He had dreamed of being the next John Steinbeck, but found his talents were better suited for journalism. He wrote for the pro-union publication Labor's Daily and in the 1950s was hired by Fortune magazine to be its labor columnist. Toffler famously said: 'The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn' and predicted the rise of email and electronic gadgets The origins of 'Future Shock' began in the 1960s when Toffler worked as a researcher for IBM and other technology companies. 'Much of what Toffler wrote in 'Future Shock' is now accepted common sense, but at the time it defied conventional views of reality,' John Judis wrote in The New Republic in 1995. 'Americans' deepest fears of the future were expressed by George Orwell's lockstep world of 1984. But Toffler, who had spent five years in a factory, understood that Americans' greatest problem was not being consigned to the tedium of the assembly line or the office. An Australian man accused of molesting at least 11 underage girls in Bali offered them cash, food and clothes in return for bathing them, a court has heard. Robert Ellis, 69, appeared calm and was even seen chatting with some of his alleged victims during the first day of his trial at Denpasar District Court on Thursday. Prosecutors allege the Melbourne man lured at least 11 girls to his rented room in Tabanan, near Kuta, with promises of gifts between 2014 and 2015. Australian Robert Andrew Fiddel Ellis comes out of a holding cell before his trial at the Denpasar District Court in Bali, Indonesia Robert Ellis is accused of molesting at least 11 underage girls in Bali between 2014 and 2015 Once inside he bathed them, touching their bodies. In one instance, prosecutors say Ellis washed three girls at once and then took them to a mall and bought them clothes. 'After that, the defendant took the three girls home to where they were staying and the defendant gave them each 200,000 rupiah (about $A20),' the indictment given to Denpasar District Court stated. Speaking after the proceedings, Ellis's lawyer Benny Hariyono said they did not challenge the indictment as many of the instances had already been confirmed by his client. Ellis does, however, dispute touching their genitals, Mr Hariyono added. 'Robert never ordered them. He only said that if they wanted to go for a walk, they must take a bath first and after that, they were given a push bike,' the lawyer told reporters outside court. Robert Ellis of Australia waits inside the court room during his trial in Denpasar Robert Ellis, 69, appeared calm and was even seen chatting with some of his alleged victims during the first day of his trial at Denpasar District Court on Thursday Siti Sapura, who works at the child protection centre that brought Ellis to the attention of authorities, said he would ask the girls: 'Would you like to have bicycle? Want some clothes? Want something to eat?' She claimed two women were also involved in bringing the children to Ellis, although they are not facing trial. 'Robert gave them motorbikes, push bikes, jewellery, nice clothes, good food. All of them received push bikes and money,' she explained. Robert Ellis (right) prepares to attend his trial in Denpasar Australian Robert Andrew Fiddel Ellis arrives for his trial at the Denpasar District Court in Bali For every shower the girls were paid between 100,000 to 300,000 rupiah. He also paid for some of them to get dental braces. After he was charged in May, Ellis said he hoped 'people are reasonable and no one sees a minor offence as a major offence'. His case will return to court at a later date. Donald Trump now wants those 'sore losers' who haven't endorsed him yet to be punished. At a campaign appearance yesterday in Bangor, Maine, the presumptive Republican nominee railed against his former rivals who didn't hold up their end of the Republican National Committee's pledge to support the eventual GOP nominee. 'They broke their word and in my opinion they should never be allowed to run for public office again because what they did is disgraceful,' Trump told the crowd. Scroll down for video Donald Trump called out those 'sore losers' who haven't endorsed him yet - as seven of his former rivals have yet to officially say that they're behind their party's presumptive nominee HOLD-OUTS: Sen. Ted Cruz (left), former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (center) and Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (right) all signed the pledge, but haven't endorsed the GOP nominee Trump said had he lost he 'would have honored the pledge.' 'It's amazing what can happen when you lose, it's amazing what can happen when you lose,' Trump said, according to CNN. WHO HASN'T ENDORSED DONALD TRUMP? Sen. Ted Cruz Gov. John Kasich Gov. Jeb Bush Gov. Scott Walker Gov. George Pataki Sen. Lindsey Graham Carly Fiorina Advertisement Out of the 16 candidates who ran for president against Trump, nine have now publicly expressed support for Trump while another seven Republicans are holding out. Most notably Sen. Ted Cruz and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, the last two Republican rivals Trump faced off against in the primaries. Neither Cruz nor Kasich have endorsed their party's presumptive nominee, as they both had expected a contested convention and then a delegate fight in Cleveland. Instead, Trump neatly beat them both in the Indiana primary on May 3, with Cruz dropping out that night and then Kasich pulling out the day after. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, who was leading in the Iowa polls early on, but whose campaign never really got off the ground, is another endorsement hold-out who's expected to play a large role in the Republican Party for years to come. Most recently Walker told a local Fox affiliate that he wasn't even sure if he would speak at the Republican National Convention. 'It all depends on what the parameters are,' Walker said on Monday. 'If I can talk about my concerns about Hillary Clinton, then I'll probably talk about that.' Also missing from the Trump endorsement list former Govs. Jeb Bush and George Pataki, who likely won't run for office again. ENDORSED TRUMP Sen. Marco Rubio Dr. Ben Carson Gov. Chris Christie Sen. Rand Paul Gov. Bobby Jindal Gov. Rick Perry Gov. Jim Gilmore Sen. Rick Santorum Gov. Mike Huckabee Advertisement Of all his rivals, Trump probably had the most acrimonious relationship with Bush, who he dubbed 'low energy' last summer, a label that stuck like glue to the former Florida governor throughout the campaign. Now Bush says he won't even vote for him. 'In November, I will not vote for Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton, but I will support principled conservatives at the state and federal levels, just as I have done my entire life,' Bush wrote on his Facebook page. Not only is Jeb Bush skipping the RNC, but his brother, former President George W. Bush, won't be in attendance and neither will their dad, former President George H.W. Bush. In fact the only living Republican nominee who plans to attend is the 92-year-old Bob Dole, as Sen. John McCain and Gov. Mott Romney are also sitting out. Pataki, the former New York governor, has not endorsed Trump yet, but seems more open to it, suggesting in late May that he needs to hear some 'thoughtful positions' out of the presumptive Republican nominee. Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, who briefly became Ted Cruz's running mate, has preached party unity but has yet to utter Donald Trump's name when making this case Ohio Gov. John Kasich (left), the last Republican standing in the primary race, has yet to endorse - along with former New York Gov. George Pataki (right), who did applaud a recent Donald Trump hire 'He has yet to articulate a very strong policy towards how hes going to keep America safe and go after radical Islam,' Pataki added. More recently the former New York governor tweeted in support of Trump hiring Maricelly Velez-Delgado, a former Pataki adviser who now serves as Trump's deputy press secretary for Hispanic media. That hire was announced last week. Carly Fiorina, the former Hewlett-Packard CEO who ran for president and then said she'd be Cruz's running mate, has also stayed mum on an endorsement of Trump, though she's been active on social media criticizing Clinton and the Supreme Court. In late May she called for GOP unity against Clinton at a speech in Stanford, Connecticut, though wouldn't mention Trump's name. As for whether this was an official endorsement, an email addressed to a former campaign aide went unreturned. Rounding out the batch of no-thank-yous is Sen. Lindsey Graham, who as of two weeks ago said he still couldn't support the presumptive Republican nominee. Graham said Trump was moving in the right direction by meeting with the National Rifle Association to talk about restricting firearms from people who are on terror watch lists. Earlier this month, Sen. Lindsey Graham suggested Donald Trump's comments about a Mexican-American judge could provide an 'off-ramp' for those looking to un-endorse the party's nominee However, the senator also suggested in early June that is Republican peers un-endorse The Donald over comments Trump made about Mexican-American judge Gonzalo Curiel. 'If anybody was looking for an off-ramp, this is probably it,' Graham said. As for the nine rivals who are now on Trump's side, some of those endorsements have been ringing. Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry said Trump will 'peel [Clinton's] skin off' during presidential debates, while volunteering himself for the role of vice president. Both Gov. Chris Christie and Dr. Ben Carson stood alongside the candidate to officially endorse. Other endorsements have been of the hold-your-nose variety. Sen. Rand Paul said that he will 'honor the pledge,' when he was asked about supporting Trump in mid-May by Breitbart News. Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal said he was backing Donald Trump after calling him an 'egomaniacal madman' in the primary because he was concerned that Clinton might appoint bad justices to the Supreme Court. 'Mr. Trump might not support a constitutionalist conservative focused on original intent and limits on the court's power,' Jindal wrote in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal headlined 'I'm voting for Trump, warts and all.' 'He may be more likely to appoint Judge Judy,' the governor said. It's not known whether the attacker in the video knew his victims He's believed to have been involved in another assault earlier in the day The attacker was arrested by police, who say he is Clarence Seely, 32 He also rants and shouts, and smashes the PVC pipe into the ground In the footage the man attacks two people and threatens others with a pipe Frightening footage of a shirtless man attacking passersby in Denver, Colorado, with a long pipe Wednesday has emerged. The video, posted on Facebook by local Caleb Bonham, shows the half-naked man - identified by police as Clarence Wayne Seely, 32 - screaming and shouting in the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver before attacking two people. During the footage the man also threatens a number of other bystanders, and at one point breaks the pipe in half with his bare hands. Scroll down for video Attacker: The video begins with the man - who has not yet been identified - walking across Denver's pedestrianized 16th Street Mall, carrying a long PVC pipe he'd stolen from a construction van Violence: The man then runs up to his first victims and strikes one of them with the pipe. It's not yet known whether they knew the attacker or not. The woman flees, but the struck man is pursued by the thug Struck: The white-shirted man falls to the ground, where the attacker is able to get in another blow to his side. The victim is able to sprint away before he can be attacked again, however The appalling scene - filmed from inside a high-rise building at just after 6pm - begins with the shirtless man striding across a large pedestrianized area, holding a long pipe that he had taken from a construction truck. The man rants and points at someone off-camera, but it's impossible to hear what he's saying. Suddenly he breaks into a run and brings the pipe - identified by 9News as being made of PVC - down on the neck and shoulders of a bystander. That man falls to the floor while the woman he's with runs out of reach. The attacker then hits him again while he's down, and tries a third time, but by that point the man has scrambled away. Chase: After first threatening the woman, the man with the pipe then chases the white-shirted man down another street. But this time he attacks the man with the red rucksack, who is pointing at him Hit: The rucksack man falls to the ground as the pipe crashes down on his neck. Both victims declined medical attention once authorities arrived Looking more like an ape than a man, the attacker then slams the pole into to the ground and shouts aggressively, threatening the woman who was with his victim. She backs off and he walks away for a second - then takes a long run-up at another man down the street. That man is stood next to the first victim and apparently pointing at the attacker just before he is hit, but it's not clear why he is targeted. As the second victim slumps to the ground and the first victim backs off, the attacker turns around and begins striding away - breaking the pipe in half with apparently very little effort. He turns and shouts, gesturing to himself, before the video ends. The suspect, who is not being identified, was taken into custody by Denver Police after the event, 9 News reported. According to a statement by Denver police he gave himself up without incident. He has been charged with assault. It's not known whether the attacker knew his victims, who both turned down medical attention. One of the men, a 35-year-old who was not named, was bleeding from a head wound, according to a police report. Police say they believe he may have been involved in another assault that occurred downtown prior to the incident. On Monday, Denver Police Department had announced that it would increase officer presence in the mall, which is promoted as a tourist attraction on a Denver Visitors' Bureau website. A painter and decorator lost three of his fingers after a police cell door was allegedly slammed on his hand when he was arrested over a domestic incident. Jamie Clark said he was being restrained into the cell by officers when he put his hand on the hinge to stop the door being closed. As he did, the door was allegedly slammed shut, instantly severing his middle finger and leaving two of his other fingers 'totally crushed'. Painter and decorator Jamie Clark (pictured) lost three of his fingers after a police cell door was allegedly slammed on his hand when he was arrested over a domestic incident Jamie Clark said he was being restrained into the cell by officers when he put his hand on the hinge to stop the door being closed. His hand was then twisted and crushed, chopping off the tops of his fingers The tradesman claims it was another 20 seconds before police opened the door after hearing his shouts and screams. By that point, there was 'blood everywhere' and three of his fingers had been completely twisted off. Mr Clark claims he was then left in the police cell for another five hours after the horrific incident. At the time, Mr Clark had been arrested over a domestic incident and taken to Llanelli police station, South Wales, but was later released without charge. The incident is now being investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Commission. Mr Clark said: 'My hand actually went in between the hinge of the door and I knew my middle finger was severed immediately. 'The policeman picked it up. The door was closed for about 20 seconds and I was banging on the door to get them to open it again. I've never felt pain like it.' Mr Clark said that, after his hand was released from the door, two other fingers were left totally 'crushed and twisted'. The tradesman claims it was another 20 seconds before police opened the door after hearing his shouts and screams. He said he cannot work and his life will never be the same again 'There was blood everywhere,' he said. 'It was horrific.I was looking at my hand bleeding and my fingers were crushed.' The tradesman said he can no longer work because he needs plastic surgery and physiotherapy on his hand. Mr Clark had been arrested over a domestic incident related to his girlfriend Anna Walters (pictured) but was later released without charge He said: 'I had a job lined up and now that's all gone. I have a diploma in painting and decorating - how can I ensure the same standards? 'It has ruined my life. My life will never be the same again.' Mr Clark, from Burry Port, near Carmarthen, was arrested after an argument with his girlfriend. He was later released on police bail. He said: 'They left me to bleed out, alone, naked and humiliated in my cell. 'I'm absolutely devastated and am taking counselling to try and get past it but the flash backs are horrendous. This will affect me for years and my mental scars may never heal.' He added: 'The pain is unbearable and I know my life will never be the same again after this. I want to say a big thank you to all those close friends and family helping me through what is no doubt the most traumatic experience of my life. A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesman said: 'We can confirm an incident occurred on the night of Monday, June 20, whereby a male required hospital treatment after suffering an injury while in custody. 'The matter has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission. It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.' A spokesman for the IPCC said: 'We received a referral from Dyfed-Powys Police after a man suffered a serious hand injury while in custody. Mitt Romney said Wednesday his family is still urging him to make a play for the presidency. 'I got an email from one of my sons yesterday that said, "You've got to get in, dad. You've got to get in,' " the 2012 Republican nominee who lost to incumbent Barack Obama said. But Romney, age 69, says he sees no path to victory within or without the GOP and has decided not to play spoiler for Donald Trump, even though he has serious doubts about his candidacy and may write his wife Ann's name on the ballot. 'I'll either write in my wife's name, who'd be an ideal president, or I'll write in the name of a third-party candidate,' he said at the Aspen Ideas Festival. Mitt Romney said Wednesday his family is still urging him to make a play for the presidency. 'I got an email from one of my sons yesterday that said, "You've got to get in, dad. You've got to get in,' " the 2012 Republican nominee said 'Our nominee is saying, "Hey look its these people here. Its these Mexicans coming across the border....its them, and its Muslims,' Romney said. 'And unfortunately, Im afraid that the things Mr. Trump has said have been unfortunately branding of our party in a negative way.' Romney said that image is also, unfortunately, 'consistent with the image that many people have of my party.' Asked it Trump's shift to prepared text that he reads off a telepromper would help resolve Republican lawmakers' concerns, Romney said, 'No.' 'It might help electorally.' he admitted. 'I think Mr. Trump has demonstrated who he is by virtue of what he's said in the process to this point, and what he says from this point forward may paper over that.' In his approximation, 'the most important single characteristic' that voters look to when they're choosing a president is 'their character and what kind of person they are in their heart.' Candidates do that through their campaigns and lifetimes, he said. 'At this stage to say, "OK, now we're going to try and create different images for either candidate" would be something [that] most American people are going to ignore.' Romney said later in the conversation, 'I believe on the basis of temperament and character, that those are areas where I feel I simply can't vote for him.' The two-time presidential candidate considered giving the White House one final go at the end of 2014, then bowed out to make way for Jeb Bush, another former governor who was favored by the establishment. 'My wife and kids wanted me to run again this time, interestingly enough,' Romney revealed Wednesday at the Aspen Ideas Festival. He considered the toll that it would take on his family and decided against it, however. 'Its hard on family. Its hard on your spouse sitting there in debates just agonizing over what youre going to say next. Or what your kids have to go through. Or your grandkids go through,' Romney explained. The retired politician said 'late in the process' his family tried to coax him into challenging Trump for the GOP's mantle because they were 'concerned about the direction of the nominating process in our party.' 'I just dont think in good conscience that Im the right person to run as long as there was a better alternative, who had a better chance of winning, rather,' Romney said, according to Politico. 'And once the nomination was locked up I didnt see a chance of winning that was realistic.' The retired politician said 'late in the process' his family tried to coax him into challenging Donald Trump for the GOP's mantle because they were 'concerned about the direction of the nominating process in our party' It's hard not to wonder what might of been, he admitted. 'The reality is, of course, you think about things like that from time to time,' the former Massachusetts governor told CBS' John Dickerson during the discussion in Aspen, Colorado. Romney said that he knows he was right to resist the temptation, though. 'I dont think an independent candidate could win, and the idea of running and asking people to come around me with the sole purpose of being a spoiler is not something I could go out in good faith to donors and to workers and to voters and say, "Come help me stop this candidate or that candidate." ' Joking, Romney said, 'That door is closed unless both candidates come to me and ask me to please save them.' Romney professed that he just can't bring himself to vote for his party's standard bearer, Trump, in November - but he won't back Democrat Hillary Clinton, either. 'I disagree with her on so many things I can't possibly vote for her,' he told Dickerson. 'I'd love to see someone run who I could vote for and feel good about.' Even if an independent candidate comes along that agrees with, Romney noted it's a near-impossible climb, unless they 'implode in one way or another' which he said is 'very possible.' 'I think it's highly probable that Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump is the next president,' he said. He won't be one of the millions of Americans voting for them though, he insisted, 'For me, it's a matter of personal conscience,' Romney told Dickerson at the forum, sponsored jointly by The Atlantic and the Aspen Institute. 'I just can't vote for either of those two people.' She filed for divorce in May Next to his body were those of Dalavanh, 15; Xonajuk, 14; and Anhurak, 9 She escaped but he then gunned her down outside a Walgreens Good Samaritan tried to intervene, but Dej-oudom was kidnapped by him Phoukeo Dej-oudom, 35, tried to escape the clutches of her husband A man chased and shot dead his wife on a Las Vegas street before returning home and committing suicide surrounded by the bodies of their three children, aged nine to 15, Wednesday night. The man, who is not being named by police, was spotted chasing his wife, identified as Phoukeo Dej-oudom, 35, on Torrey Pines Drive, just south of Lake Mead north of the family's 1900 N. Torrey Pines apartment. A good Samaritan attempted to intervene and save the woman, but was powerless to stop the horrific events from unfolding, the Review Journal said. Chase: Phoukeo Dej-oudom, 35, was chased by her husband before being shot in a Walgreens parking lot (pictured) in Las Vegas Wednesday. Her husband - who is not being named by police - fled the scene Bystanders: Witnesses (pictured) heard four shots before Dej-oudom fell down dead. Her husband was tracked to the couple's home by a SWAT team, but they didn't enter until they realized kids were inside Dej-oudom was spotted screaming for help at about 7.20pm Wednesday by a man driving his car down Torrey Pines Drive. He picked her up, but then found himself being chased by her husband. The killer pursued them to a CVS drug store two blocks away, before pulling a gun on the pair and dragging his wife into his car at gunpoint. As he sped off, Dej-oudom hung out of the window, eventually escaping and running away. She managed to run to a Walgreen's about half a mile away, but her husband caught up with her in his car. Witnesses outside the store reported hearing four gunshots at around 7:30pm. A bystander rushed to the woman after she slumped to the ground, but she was already dead. She had suffered at least one gunshot wound to the head. Her killer fled, but a relative called police at around 8pm saying the man was at the family's apartment and suicidal. A SWAT team responded to the address, deploying flashbang grenades and shouting 'We know you're in there' though loudhailers, but failed to make contact with the man. Hours passed before they learned that the couple's children were inside, at which point they entered the building. Inside they found the bodies of the father and three children - Dalavanh Ariel Dej-oudom, a 15-year-old girl; and two boys, Anhurak Jason Dej-oudom, 9, and Xonajuk J.J. Dej-oudom, 14 - in a bedroom. Authorities are not sure if he killed the children before or after his wife. Siege: After SWAT officers entered the home on Torrey Pines Drive (pictured, with police barricade), they found the father's body as well as those of Dalavanh, 15; Xonajuk, 14; and Anhurak, 9 Video courtesy of KTNV 'It's really hard to understand how this could happen, how somebody could do that to children,' police Lt. Dan McGrath said. He added that the carnage inside the home was hard on the investigators. Domestic violence reports involving the family were noted earlier this month at the same apartment and in an out-of-state incident in 2006, he added. A spokesman from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department said she could not comment on why the perpetrator is not being named by detectives. However, the Review Journal said that Phoukeo Dej-Oudom married Jason Dej-Odoum, 34, in 2000, according to Franklin County, Ohio, records. Records at Clark County Family Court - which would deal with Las Vegas family cases - show that she filed for divorce on May 25. This is the horrific moment a plain clothes police officer was shot at point blank range by an ISIS suicide bomber during the Istanbul airport massacre. Footage shows an undercover policeman approach a man in a black jacket walking through Ataturk airport before collapsing to the floor in agony. An extended version of the CCTV video then shows the jihadist taking aim at the officer while he is writhing on the ground before firing again. CCTV footage captures the horrific moment a plain clothes police officer was shot at point blank range by an ISIS suicide bomber during the Istanbul airport massacr Footage shows an undercover policeman approach a man in a black jacket walking through Ataturk airport before collapsing to the floor in agony Three suicide bombers went on a coordinated rampage through the terminal on Tuesday night killing 43 people - 19 of them foreigners - and injuring more than 300. The latest CCTV footage, obtained by Turkish broadcaster Haberturk, was taken from a camera near elevators at the airport moments before the main attack got underway. The officer is believed to have approached the bomber because he was suspicious about him wearing a raincoat in summer. They exchange words before footage shows the policeman rolling around on the floor. After seeing that the officer was not dead, the gunman reportedly extended his arm and shot at his victim again. An extended version of the CCTV video then shows the jihadist taking aim at the officer while he is writhing on the ground before firing again After seeing that the officer was not dead, the gunman reportedly extended his arm and shot at his victim again. He then steps over the officer and puts the gun away before getting into a lift He then steps over the officer and puts the gun away before getting into a lift. According to the Mirror, the condition of the policeman is not yet known. Authorities have identified the bombers as a Russian, an Uzbek and a Kyrgyz national. Turkey has been plunged into mourning over the carnage at Ataturk airport, the deadliest of several attacks to strike Turkey's biggest city this year. Police carried out more than a dozen raids across Istanbul early Thursday, arresting 13 people including four foreigners, Interior Minister Efkan Ala said. Turkey has suffered a string of deadly attacks in the past year blamed on either IS or Kurdish rebels, and the airport attack comes just at the start of the crucial summer tourist season. Ala told reporters late Wednesday there was an ongoing 'serious and comprehensive investigation' into who was behind the attack. Using another name for IS, he said: 'First signs point to Daesh, but it's not certain yet.' CIA director John Brennan said the attack, which has sparked international condemnation, bore the 'hallmark' of the jihadist group. Today it emerged that undercover officers unwittingly tried to stop one of the Istanbul terrorists in his tracks just moments before the cell began their murderous rampage - causing the panicked jihadi to open fire early. Text messages between the officer and his colleague reveal how he spotted the man wearing inappropriate winter clothing at Ataturk Airport on Tuesday night and deciding to investigate. The three smiling suicide bombers are seen walking calmly together towards the airport, wearing heavy clothes with one carrying a bag A woman cries as people start to gather at the airport on Thursday afternoon for a memorial service to remember those who lost their lives But the decision proved to be almost fatal: his intervention caused the terrorist to begin the attack early, with his first target being the officer. According to Hurriyet, the officer texted his friend about the man after deciding he looked suspicious. 'He is walking around with a coat in this weather,' he wrote, adding: 'Brother, he looks like a robber, shall we follow him?' His friend encourages him, and the men call on back up. Unaware of the danger, they asked for ID, and the man bent down, pretending to look for it. When he stood back up, he was holding a gun, which he fires at the officers three time. The terrorist then ran downstairs, outside in front of international arrivals, where - near the taxi rank - he explodes at exactly 9.51pm. The officer, who is expecting his first child with his wife, is now fighting for his life in hospital. The story emerged at the same time as a still from airport CCTV showing one of the terrorists shooting a plain clothes policeman at point-blank range. An image of the three of them walking into the airport together has also been made public, while Turkish officials have revealed the men came from Russia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. It is thought there were eight other people involved in the terror plot. This is the first clear picture of the man Turkish media are claiming is one of the men who attacked the airport on Tuesday A second suicide bomber can be seen here, making his way through the terminal with what appears to be a gun One of the three terrorists that struck at Turkey's Ataturk Airport wields an AK-47 as he carries out his killing spree (left), while a man carries a wounded boy away from the airport (right) The attack came just a day after the Kremlin revealed it had received a letter of apology from president Recep Tayyip Erdogan after Turkey downed one of Russia's jets over Syria earlier this year. The CCTV image - which appears to show the killers grinning as they walk towards the building - matches those release yesterday, one of which shows the man in the centre walking alone into the airport, alongside an unsuspecting pilot. The man at the back was seen on other CCTV, gun in hand - apparently shooting indiscriminately at his innocent victims. In another clip, one of the men was seen being shot by a policeman, falling to the floor before igniting his explosives. A newly released video of the attack shows people fleeing in front of a gunman, clearing what appears to be the check in area before he appears in shot. An aerial view of the airport shows where the suicide bombers are believed to have detonated their explosives, close to the entrance to the international arrivals terminal The man then runs around a bit, apparently shooting at something, before dropping his gun. He picks it up, and then runs off back to where he has come from. It is unclear which bomber he was. By the time the final bomber detonated his suicide vest, the terrorists had killed dozens of people and injured hundreds. On Thursday, the death toll rose to 43. The exact identities of the men remains unclear, but speaking today, an official said 'extensive soft-tissue' damage had complicated efforts to identify the attackers. 'A medical team is working around the clock to conclude the identification process,' he told journalists. As they continue to try to establish exactly who they were, Turkish police located an alleged terrorist hideout said to have been used by the cell to plot the airport atrocity. A woman who lives in the same apartment building said: 'There were strange smells. 'It was like a gas and it never went. We heard clicking sounds and we think whey were making bomb.' Three bombers used this flat - which had a steel door - in the Fatih suburb in the European part of Istanbul. Bodies lie on the pavement outside Istanbul's international airport after explosions and gunfire shook the terminal People who had just arrived at the airport in Istanbul after the blasts were pictured running as they tried to flee the scene According to reports, they paid a three month rent upfront for the apartment in the Ardic apartment building, where they kept the curtains and windows shut at all times - using air conditioning to keep cool during the Turkish summer. One woman claimed she went to see the local authorities amid suspicions over the new identities. She went to see a local official 'and asked him if he knew who they are. 'And the muhtar told me not to worry: 'We know everything'.' Experts have described the attack as being planned with precision which was akin to that of 'special forces'. Writing in the Daily Beast, Clive Irving noted: 'It was carried out in a way that suggests the kind of advance intelligence, careful study of a target, and cool execution that would normally be practised by Western special forces.' Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Wednesday that one of the attackers blew himself up outside, giving the other two the opportunity to get inside the building. He said: 'When the terrorists couldn't pass the regular security system, when they couldn't pass the scanners, police and security controls, they returned and took out their weapons out of their suitcases and opened fire at random at the security check. 'One blew himself up outside and the other two took advantage of the panic created during the shoot out and got inside and blew themselves up.' ISIS have yet to claim responsibility for the attack, but Turkish officials say it carries all the hallmarks of the terror group - and is similar to the attack in Brussels. BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner said: 'The lack of any immediate claim for this attack by so-called Islamic State is not surprising..(but) all the signs point towards them being the culprits.' Decision caused outrage, with many comparing it to case of Brock Former Indiana University student John P. Enochs, of Downers Grove, Illinois, allegedly raped one girl in April 2015 and another in 2013, but was sentenced to a year of probation after accepting a plea deal The parents of two women who say they were raped by a former frat boy have slammed prosecutors for their lenient sentence. The families said they did not know about the plea deal that was given to ex-Indiana University student John Enochs that meant he didn't get any prison time. They also accused the Monroe County Prosecutor's office of shaming their daughters in the media by not releasing vital evidence. Enochs, of Downers Grove, Illinois, allegedly attacked one girl in April 2015 and another in 2013. But the 22-year old had both felony charges against him dropped after he accepted a plea deal to a lesser charge of battery. He was sentenced to one year probation and spent only one day in jail. Prosecutors have said there were problems with the DNA evidence and could not rely on witness statements from the nights the attacks took place. The decision was met with outrage, with many comparing it to the light prison term given to the rapist Stanford swimmer Brock Turner. In a statement to Daily Mail Online, released by lawyers on their behalf on Thursday, the parents said: 'These last few days have been extremely painful and frustrating for our daughters. 'As with all victims of sexual assault, it took tremendous strength and courage for them to come forward. 'Despite understanding the high burden the State faces in a criminal trial and knowing the additional emotional pain trials would cause, our daughters were resolute that a jury would eventually hear and see all of the evidence and then decide Mr. Enochs' fate. 'We make this statement to clarify some misconceptions in the various media accounts. 'Our daughters were in frequent contact with the prosecuting attorneys throughout the criminal litigation process. 'They both fully cooperated with everything that was asked of them. They were never told a plea agreement was even being discussed with Mr. Enochs' attorneys. 'They were shocked to learn the charges in one case had been dismissed and an insignificant plea had been reached in the other case. 'They learned of these outcomes not from the prosecuting attorneys, but second-hand. 'It was only when we contacted the prosecuting attorneys that we were told. What is even more troubling is that the prosecuting attorney's recent public statement presents the evidence only in a light most favorable to Mr. Enochs. 'While we will not discuss specifics of the evidence in either case, the prosecutor's statement fails to mention many critical pieces of evidence that we believe a jury would have relied upon to render a guilty verdict. An affidavit describes the incident that allegedly occurred in April, saying a woman was at a party at Enochs' frat house (pictured), drinking with friends, when she went to find a bathroom. The next thing she remembers is a man having sex with her, who she did not know 'Ultimately, we conclude that the prosecuting attorney released that statement in an attempt to save face when confronted with the type of intense scrutiny our daughters have faced since they decided to come forward. 'Our daughters are determined and resolute to seek justice, not only for themselves, but also in the hope that other victims of sexual assaults will not be discouraged from coming forward. 'Our daughters appreciate the support being expressed to them by thousands of people they do not know and will likely never know.' Jeff Herman, the victim's attorney, said: 'The comments about other DNA are disappointing. It amounts to nothing more than victim shaming. The only relevant question is whether the accused perpetrator's DNA is present. Both of these young women should be applauded for their bravery in coming forward.' Prosecutors have explained why they gave no prison time to a former frat boy accused of raping two women. In response, the Monroe County Prosecutor's office said they couldn't prove rape as there were issues with DNA evidence. They also said witnesses couldn't recall some events because they had been drinking. Herman says one of the victims is 'frustrated' by the lack of time behind bars and announced that she is now planning to file a civil suit. 'This obviously has been devastating for her,' said Herman. 'It has forced her to have to leave school. For her, it's a life sentence.' Prosecutors said on Monday that the case presented a 'very unusual' set of circumstances. The jury in either case from learning about the other allegation if the cases went to trial. Prosecutors also said there were 'evidentiary' problems with both cases, according to the Indianapolis Star. In the investigation from 2013, witnesses couldn't recall some important details because so much time had passed and they'd been drinking. There were also photographs that are believed to have contradicted 'the assertion that the complaining witness was incapable of engaging in consensual activity shortly before the alleged assault'. In the more recent case, prosecutors said DNA evidence was problematic; prosecutors also said video before and after the alleged assault did 'not support the assertion of a forcible rape'. Therefore they said it was impossible for them to prove to a jury that Enochs had caused the victim's injuries by sexual assault. The decision was met with outrage, with many comparing it to the light prison term given to the rapist Stanford swimmer Brock Turner (above) Enochs, formerly a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity, firmly denies both charges. The 22-year-old was facing two counts of felony rape, but instead will only be convicted of a misdemeanor battery with moderate bodily injury charge. An affidavit describes the incident that allegedly occurred in April, saying a woman was at a party at Enochs' frat house, drinking with friends, when she went to find a bathroom. She says the next thing she remembers is being in a private room with an unknown man who was having sex with her, the affidavit alleges. The unidentified woman said when she realized what was happening she pushed the man off her, said 'no' and, after the act finished, ran to a bathroom to hide until her friends found her. The police were called and the woman was given a rape kit test if she had been assaulted. Security footage showed Enochs entering a room with the woman and his DNA was found on her, the affidavit says. She later identified him in a line up, according to the Indianapolis Star. Enochs' attorney, Katharine C. Liell vigorously denies this allegation and the one from 2013. 'I totally believe John has been caught up in a whirlwind of emotion surrounding any allegation involving sexual assault on campus,' Liell said. She called the incidents 'histrionics' caused by other college rape cases. The 2013 accusation of rape came from a woman who said Enochs was seen having sex with her, although the woman herself doesn't recall the incident. Enochs is alleged to have assaulted this woman before attending a Greek function on the college campus. The woman was passed out during the incident, it is alleged. A friend claims she rushed upstairs to stop the rape, but the door was locked, the affidavit reads. Twitter tore into Enochs, likening his case to that of Brock Turner, who was found guilty on three sexual assault charges for raping a woman on the campus of Stanford University and later was sentenced to only six months Initially the woman did not want to press charges until she heard of the case from 2015, and then decided to report the assault. Following the plea deal, Twitter users tore into Enochs, likening his case to that of Brock Turner, who was found guilty on three sexual assault charges for raping a woman on the campus of Stanford University and later was sentenced to only six months in jail. One Twitter user, Kimberly Turner wrote: 'White male privilege must be nice #johnenochs #rapeculture.' Enochs' LinkedIn page shows that he was scheduled to graduate this year, though a university spokesman said when he was charged that Enochs is no longer a student at the school, according to the New York Daily News. A Columbia University student from Brooklyn joined ISIS but was soon begging American officials to rescue him. In October 2014, the FBI received an email from a 25-year-old man from Brooklyn identified by the Washington Post as Mohimanul Alam Bhuiya, now in his late 20s. He told the agency he had slipped into Syria to join ISIS but had soon become 'fed up with this evil' and wanted out, reports the outlet. Documents of his case were unsealed last month. Mohimanul Alam Bhuiya, above, was 25 in 2014 when he wrote an email to the FBI begging them to rescue him from ISIS, which he had joined voluntarily 'I am an American whos trying to get back home from Syria,' he wrote, according to government documents. 'I just want to get back home. All I want is this extraction, complete exoneration thereafter, and have everything back to normal with me and my family... Please help me get home... I am fed up with this evil.' As the FBI was trying to verify his identity, he managed to escape and slip into Turkey. From there, he made it back to the US, where he was promptly arrested and charged with providing material support and receiving military training from the Islamic State. In 2014, he pleaded guilty to both counts. His sentencing is today and he faces up to 25 years in prison, according to Red State. The former Columbia University student could have had a bright future ahead of him until he decided to travel to Syria to join up with the terrorist group The Washington Post reports that the man's name was redacted in court documents because it was 'necessary to protect the integrity of the ongoing government investigations and the safety of the defendant and his family.' Before he joined the terrorist organization, Bhuiya appeared to have a bright future ahead of him. He attended Columbia University School of General Studies for one semester from January to May 2013. He did not receive a degree after dropping out. He began to drive a taxi. Mohimanul Alam Bhuiya grew up in Brooklyn (above his parents' house) and went to John Dewey High School In his Brooklyn high school, John Dewey High School, he wrote an essay for the school newspaper, saying, 'I always wanted to become someone extraordinary and unbelievable, someone people would ponder and admire, just as I admired Superman and Batman.' He went on to praise everyone from Albert Einstein to President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Winston Churchill to Frank Sinatra to his teachers. He concluded it with 'I want to be a superhero.' In June 2014, the FBI learned that he was planning to visit Syria, but when authorities interviewed him at his home in Brooklyn, he told them he was interested in 'rebel groups' but had no money to get there. However, days later, he went anyway, and soon was in Syria, embedded with ISIS fighters, but begging them not to send him to the front lines. According to an NBC interview he gave in May using the name Mo, he said he told them he didn't want to fight, but could be useful in other ways. He said he was appalled by the 'bloodthirst' of the fighters who were bragging about being terrorists and getting slave girls. 'It was just not the Islam I grew up with,' he said. Mohimanul Alam Bhuiya wrote an essay for his high school newsletter saying he wanted to be a 'superhero' - above, where he grew up in Brooklyn Soon, he was trying to figure out a way to escape the 'dystopia' of ISIS. 'You could see madness in their eyes,' he said. He somehow made it to a US outpost in Turkey without a passport, which ISIS had confiscated, and from there to the US, where he was apprehended. An Arkansas special needs school is under investigation after a teacher allegedly forced a four-year-old with special needs to drink hot sauce after he acted out in a speech therapy class. Melaina Whitley realized something was wrong when her son Tanner came home early from Friendship Pediatric Services in Bryant last month and began vomiting violently. At first she thought it was just a bug - but a few days later she found out the truth. 'He said, "I got hot sauce at school,"' she told Us Weekly. 'He said it was hot and he had to get water. Im assuming that [the teacher] really had to force the hot sauce down.' The young boy was visibly upset when he told his mom what had happened. 'He was upset and kept saying, "Its not funny," she said. 'So maybe they were laughing when it happened. But I wasnt laughing.' Whitley went to police - who were told by the school's director that the boy had been made to drink the painful liquid as punishment. Tanner had hit a friend in class, Whitley said. The daycare's program administrator, Karla Curry, told officers that the teacher, who hasn't been identified, had admitted to putting hot sauce in the child's mouth. She added that it was 'a common discipline for children in (the teacher's) culture,' according to a police report. The Department of Human Services (DHS) says that the only acceptable punishment is a time out, according to KATV. And Whitley is not just unhappy about the embarrassment and pain her son felt - but also the circumstances around the punishment. 'I know when she was like, "Let me give you hot sauce," he didn't just say, "Okay, cool", and open his mouth. It must have been forced... 'He said he was crying and had to get water and it was nasty,' she added. 'I don't know if this was the first time or he was the only child.' She's also frustrated by what she says is inaction on the part of the school. 'They should at least fire her I think. Just anything, just something at all. I know for a fact she still works there.' The school would not confirm whether or not the teacher was still working there, but did say in a statement that it had 'self-reported' violations of day-center regulations and injury to a child to the DHS. 'We expect to be held accountable and to learn from events to ensure the situation is never repeated,' the school said. It also said that it could not talk to the press about an active investigation, under DHS rules. Statement: The school said that it was being investigated by the Department of Human Services and that it self-reported the incidents and will put into place measures to make sure it doesn't happen again Samuel Adams was the Founding Father in charge when crates of British tea were ceremoniously dumped into Boston's bay. It seems fitting, therefore, that the Boston Beer Company, maker of Samuel Adams lager, is looking to benefit from Britain's political woes once again - using a quintessentially British drink. The firm has applied to trademark 'Brexit' for a new batch of hard cider made with British apples. The application for the political moniker was filed on June 24, just a day after the vote was announced, sending world leaders and world markets into disarray. Samuel Adams maker The Boston Beer Company has applied to trademark 'Brexit' for a batch of hard cider It was filed on an intent-to-use basis. A spokesman for the firm told Daily Mail Online that the name will likely be used for its 'Angry Orchard' range, which is made with British apples. It is not the only 'Brexit' trademark application to be filed. A clothing firm in Colorado has applied to use the name. And a man in Texas has since applied to trademark the word 'Texit' on shooting paraphernalia and apparel. If it comes out soon, Brexit cider will share shelf space with other political beverages. Budweiser trademarked 'America' this year. The patriotic cans and bottles - featuring the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner - are already on sale, and will run until after the election in November. Britain will almost double its number of troops in Iraq in a bid to reassure nervous allies in the wake of Brexit. A total of 250 military personnel are to deploy to the war-torn region to help in the fight against ISIS at the end of the summer. They will join around 300 soldiers already there. Although the plans have been underway for weeks, the announcement came as the Ministry of Defence sought to reassure other EU nations that Britain would remain a key player. Britain will almost double its number of troops in Iraq in a bid to reassure nervous allies in the wake of Brexit (file pict Defence Secretary Michael Fallon is determined to highlight that the United Kingdom will stay a world power despite the EU vote. Mr Fallon wants it to send a strong message to Britains allies, sources said. Most of the soldiers will go to Al Asad airbase in Anbar province, western Iraq, 100 miles west of Baghdad. They include 50 trainers, 90 soldiers to protect the base, and 30 to set up a headquarters. About 80 engineers will work on infrastructure for six months. About 300 British personnel are already in the country helping to train Iraqi and Kurdish forces. British forces will not be there to fight and all the training will take place behind the wire, in the safety of the base, the MoD said. In a written statement to Parliament, Mr Fallon said the deployment would add to the UKs significant contribution to the campaign against the barbaric militants. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon is determined to highlight that the United Kingdom will stay a world power despite the EU vote Mr Fallon said: With Coalition support, Iraqi forces are pushing Daesh back and reoccupying territory. Fallujah has now been liberated after suffering at the hands of Daesh since early 2014. As Iraqi forces continue to regain territory and begin preparatory operations to retake Mosul, it is important that the Coalition continues to provide the support needed to allow them to make further progress. The announcement comes after he told a Royal United Services Institute conference in London that Britain would stay a world power despite the EU vote. The Remain campaigner said Britain would continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the US. Speaking on Wednesday, he said : We will remain a major international power with global responsibilities. General Sir Nick Carter, head of the army, told an international audience at the think-tanks land warfare conference: As far as were concerned there is absolutely no change to our army to army relations. Heavy machine gun and sniper rifle ammunition worth 1.4 million will also be handed to Iraq for use with the weapons previously gifted by the UK for the fight against IS, also known as Daesh. The RAF has so far conducted around 900 air strikes against IS targets in Iraq and Syria. Haleigh Maynard, 24, allegedly killed her client while working as a prostitute in 2015, stabbing him 50 times in the head and neck A Michigan prostitute who allegedly killed her 70-year-old client by stabbing him 50 times in the head and neck has been deemed competent to stand trial. Haleigh Maynard, 24, has been charged with open murder in the death of Gary Schneider during a dominant-submissive sexual encounter in March 2015. Maynard told police that she began prostituting to support her cocaine habit and had met Schneider while looking for business on the street. They later reconnected on Backpage.com. The two built up a routine in the year and a half that they knew each other before Schneider's murder, according to police. Maynard charged Schneider $35, five dollars less then her going rate, per session. Every time they met Maynard wound undress and immediately stand on the scale to see if she had gained weight. Schneider would then spank her 10 times for every pound she gained since their last meeting, Tpsilani Police Detective Robert Peto testified during her preliminary examination. On the day Schneider was killed, Maynard had gained 10 pounds. Peto said Maynard have revealed during her interview that she had used cocaine that day, and that the pair had smoked marijuana and were drinking alcohol, according to Michigan Live. Maynard asked for a break after Schneider spanked her, first with a belt and then with a stick, about 20 to 25 times. She told police that the spankings had began to bring on 'flashbacks' of past abuse she had suffered as a child and that she began to get 'angry with the situation'. Maynard said she then went into the kitchen to grab a drink, but Schneider followed her and began to playfully 'swat' her. 'Ms Maynard stated that she told him not to, and that she was getting angry,' Peto said on the stand. 'Mr Schneider was kind of playfully laughing while he was doing it and he asked her, "Oh, is this making you angry?" - kind of taunting her.' Maynard told Peto she blacked out and began attacking Schneider with a knife, first stabbing him when his back was turned. She said he seemed 'shocked' and 'called her a b****', according to Peto. Maynard told police she and Gary Schneider, 70, had a routine. Maynard would stand on a scale and then he would then spank her 10 times for every pound she gained since their last meeting (pictured in 2012) When she realized what she was actually doing, Maynard told police she 'felt it was too late to stop'. Schneider was found with 50 stab stab wounds, 48 of which were to his head and neck. Authorities said Maynard, who claims to have a history of fits of anger and blackouts, then took Schneider's wallet but dropped it on the ground as she fled his Ypsilanti home. It was Schneider's neighbor Barb Basset who found his wallet while walking her dog. She tried to return it, but he never came to the door. Basset said she then went to his next door neighbor and asked if they would call Schneider. The neighbors called the police when they realized his house was open, according to Fox 2 Detroit. Schneider was found dead on March 26, 2015. It took months before Maynard was arrested for Schneider's murder. Police found her fingerprints all over his house and her footprints in his blood. She was charged in August 2015 and is being held at Washtenaw County Jail without bond. Maynard was once again found competent to stand trial after her attorney asked for a new competency evaluation in April. Herr trial will begin in October. She faces life in prison if convicted. Family Division judge at the High Court, Mr Justice Baker (pictured) said the mother's objections were reasonable and blocked the move The Hungarian parents of an eight-month-old baby have won their fight for her to be adopted in England. The 21-year-old mother and 37-year-old father came to Britain to work in hotels and agreed to give up their little girl for adoption in England when she was born in October last year. However the local authority, which cannot be named for legal reasons, took the girl (referred to as AO) into care and placed her with foster parents, before deciding she should be sent back to Hungary. Today, Family Division judge at the High Court in London, Mr Justice Baker, said the mother's objections were reasonable and blocked the move. The local authority have now agreed to find adoptive parents, who cannot be identified, in England in compliance with the mother's wishes. The judge said the parents had come to England a couple of years ago to 'better themselves' and 'were not in a position to bring up the baby themselves.' They had no plans to return to Hungary. When the mother found out she was pregnant she sought a termination but it was too late. The local authority began care proceedings and the moment the baby was born they took her away. The parents said they did not want her to know about her origins and history and did not want any involvement after birth. In evidence the mother said she came from a poor background in Hungary and was sending money back to help them. But said she did not want them to know about the baby. The judge said: 'The mother agreed that one reason why she did not want the child to be adopted in Hungary was because she feared that this would make it easier for her to trace her relatives. She stressed, however, that her principal reason for wanting her baby adopted in this country was because she believed that she would have a better life here.' He added that all things being equal it would be to AO's advantage to grow up in her own culture. But all things were not equal as she had become settled with her English foster carer and a move to Hungary 'would in my judgment be far more disruptive and damaging than an adoptive placement in this country which will involve only one change of carer, no language difficulties, and a transition that can be arranged at a pace and in a way that best meets AO's needs. 'It is, of course, very important that AO should be brought up with an awareness of her cultural background. 'But in my judgment this can be addressed by carefully selecting adopters who are able and willing to accept that she has such needs which they as her permanent parents will have to meet. 'I acknowledge the potential difficulties if Hungary refuses to recognise an English adoption of a child that it regards as Hungarian, but in my judgment this factor, and the others identified by the local authority, do not outweigh the clear benefits of proceeding to place her for adoption in this country.' The Hungarian parents of an eight-month-old baby have won their fight for her to be adopted in England. Pictured is the Family Division of the High Court in London He added: 'It should not be assumed that this will be the outcome in every case where a child of foreign parents is relinquished for adoption. 'Each case will turn on its own facts. In this case, it is plain that this is the outcome which best meets the welfare needs of this child. Weak leadership, poor judgment, a lack of 'warfighting toughness' and a litany of other errors led to the capture of 10 US sailors by Iran back in January, Navy investigators say. In a report into the incident, released today, officials say the men were unprepared for interrogation, gave away information including the passwords to phones and laptops, and details about their vessel and mission. The damning report concludes that 'decision makers at every level failed to intervene' in order to stop the mission from becoming an embarrassing failure. Scroll down for video Failures at every level by Navy commanders and personnel led to the capture of 10 US sailors by Iran back in January, according to a scathing report released today Investigators found the mission was poorly planned, commanders underestimated the risks involved, sailors failed to navigate properly, and repeatedly breached protocol after being captured The boat's commanders also broke protocol by agreeing to be filmed eating and looking happy by their Iranian captors, and agreeing to read a statement of apology in order to be released. Both actions were ultimately unnecessary as the American government had already negotiated their unconditional release, according to the official Navy report into the incident, seen by Mail Online. In fact the mission was so riddled with errors that the Navy now plans to use it as a test case in training as an example of what not to do. Presenting the findings to the Pentagon, Admiral John Richardson said: 'Our actions on that day in January and this incident did not live up to our expectations of our Navy. 'Big incidents like this are always the result of the accumulation of a number of small problems.' The sailors were captured in the Persian Gulf after unknowingly straying into Iranian international waters where one of their craft broke down, before captains ordered the other vessel to stop while repairs were carried out. While sailors were attempting to repair the engine, multiple Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps craft approached with their weapons drawn, forced them to surrender, and then detained them on nearby Farsi Island. Both commanders and boat captains failed to map the route properly, allowing the boats to inadvertently stray into both Saudi and Iranian waters, where they were eventually captured The captains of the two captured boats were blasted in the report for 'failing to meet even the most basic requirements of leadership, planning and tactical execution' The men were released the following day, but the captured proved a boon to Iranian state television which broadcast images of the American sailors on their knees as propaganda. It also destabilized peace efforts in the region, coming at the same time as a prisoner swap between the U.S. and Iran, and as the Iranian nuclear deal came into effect. Problems with the mission began even before the Riverine Command Boats 802 and 805 left port in Kuwait on a 259 nautical mile trip to Bahrain, the report states. Captain Kyle Moses, commodore of the task force which included the two boats, ordered them to undertake the trip on short notice, despite there being no pressing reason for the mission. The trip was the longest undertaken by the crews, and was so far outside of normal operating range for both boats that a refueling stop had to be organized at the halfway point. The report says Moses: 'Demonstrated poor leadership by ordering the transit on short notice without due regard to mission planning and risk assessment. 'He severely underestimated the complexity and hazards associated with the transit. 'He lacked a questioning attitude, failed to promote a culture of safety, and disregarded appropriate backup from his staff and subordinate commands.' The captains agreed to be filmed eating and smiling while in captivity, and recorded a message of apology despite the government having already negotiated their unconditional release Moses, who is not named in the report but was identified as the head of Commander Task Force 56 after being sacked last week, also failed to provide surface or air oversight for the boats. Such monitoring 'would likely have prevented' the sailors' capture by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, according to the report. Planning for the trip had been rushed, meaning one of the vessels was not mission-ready and the crew had to spend the night before preparing it, the report says. At least one Patrol Officer, who would ultimately oversee the mission, reported getting no sleep at all, while other sailors were not aware of a mandatory rest requirement before getting underway. The RCB captains were savaged in the report, for 'failing to meet even the most basic requirements of leadership, planning and tactical execution.' Investigators added: 'The two RCB Boat Captains made poor tactical decision during the transit that further compounded these problems. 'Unprepared and unaware the boat crews were late in responding to approaching [Iranian] patrol craft, delaying action to take up a heightened security posture. 'Their lack of adequate force protection left them few realistic options to avoid detention.' In mission planning, commanders used a standard route that would have avoided territorial waters altogether, the report says. However, this was changed at the last minute when the mission began running four hours late to make sure refueling could happen in daylight. The course to the rendezvous was straightened, knocking around an hour off the mission time, but taking the craft into Iranian waters. Commanders did not realize this, however, because they had not charted the course on paper and were instead relying on coordinates that did not indicate territorial waters or Farsi Island. Admiral John Richardson told Pentagon officials that the errors uncovered are so broad that he now intends to use the mission as a test case in training, saying: 'This will be something we can mine for a lot of lessons' Both commanders and captains 'did not know where Farsi Island was located, nor understood its significance', the report states. The course was changed even further during the trip, according to the report, but boat Patrol Officers failed to chart it, or report the changes to their superior officers. When the engine failure occurred, boat captains failed to report it, and also did not report sighting Farsi Island because they wrongly believed it to be Saudi territory. Because they were not aware of the impending danger, rather than getting the operational boat to two the broken one back into international water for repairs, the commanders instead allowed them to drift even closer to the island. While adrift, neither boat captain ordered their gunners to don protective equipment, nor man their weapons, even when two craft were spotted approaching at high speed. Only when the Iranian vessels were within several hundred yards of the boats did crew begin taking up positions, but stopped after being ordered to do so by their commanders, who believed they could 'talk their way out of' the situation. Once in captivity, the report notes that the sailors were given three meals, and were encouraged to eat by their commanders, though the superiors asked them to stop after the Iranians began filming. During the interrogation, crew gave inconsistent answers, and while many played dumb or refused to answer, several were truthful. Passwords were given out to laptops and phones, while crew also shared details of the mission and RCB capabilities, the report states, in violation of American military protocol. While the captors did threaten to send some crew to the Iranian mainland, nobody was harmed and weapons were not used to intimidate them. Despite this, one of the boat commanders agreed to give a videotaped apology to the Iranians the following morning, falsely believing it would secure their release. The report does lay some blame with the Iranians, however, saying that they violated international law and sovereign immunity by boarding and searching the two American boats. While the commanders did not intend to be in Iranian waters, the report says, they have the right to 'innocent passage' and are allowed to stop if suffering a malfunction. New York City mayor Bill de Blasio will have to find a new social media head after a recent hire quit New York City mayor Bill de Blasio's new social media director quit on Tuesday, just eight weeks after he accepted the job. Scott Kleinberg announced his departure in a social media post - naturally - writing he had to leave 'for the sake of my health and my sanity.' 'Well, that was fast,' he wrote Tuesday night in a now-removed Facebook post. 'I moved to NYC for a dream job and that's not what I got.' 'I tried to stick it out, but it was impossible,' Kleinberg continued. 'I don't even know the word quit, but for the sake of my health and my sanity, I decided I needed to do just that. Now, for the first time in my life, I'm unemployed...' 'I've learned a lot in the past several weeks, including something I've ignored in many a fortune cookie: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.' In response, one friend wrote: 'I'm sure it's impossible for someone of your caliber, with your work ethic and honesty, to survive in a sea of cut-throat political hacks,' Kleinberg, 43, agreed, writing: 'I ended up with political hacks plus a boss who just couldn't get it. It was a bad combination for sure.' He further complained that frequent 13-hour shifts and weekend work left him sleep deprived and suffering from chest pains. Scott Kleinberg, 43, couldn't stand working at City Hall for more than eight weeks. He announced his departure Tuesday in a Facebook rant Scott Kleinberg announced his departure in a social media post, writing he had to leave 'for the sake of my health and my sanity' Kleinberg also charged that his bosses in the communications office demanded he let them approve social media posts - even personal ones - before he published them. In an email to Daily Mail Online, Kleinberg wrote he 'will not be commenting' on the Facebook post and his departure from City Hall. The newly-unemployed social media director formerly worked with the Chicago Tribune, where he ran the social media team for five years and wrote the column 'So Social.' C'mon, bro: The mayor's office responded to Kleinberg's departure in a statement, writing 'New York City government is a tough, fast-paced job that is not for everyone' His employment at City Hall was announced in a May 3 press release, in which de Blasio's office wrote: 'Kleinberg and his team will infuse personality and engagement into the social media channels for the Office of the Mayor and City government as a whole.' In Tuesday's Facebook post, Kleinberg wrote he intends to stay in New York and asked his friends for job leads. It looks like he will not be welcome back at City Hall, however. In a statement, the mayor's communications head wrote: Chilling CCTV footage has emerged that shows how terrified passengers fled the terminal as ISIS gunmen opened fire. Holidaymakers can be seen calmly going about their business in what appears to be the airport check-in area before a commotion by the entrance causes activity to ground to a halt. As the passengers realise that the airport is under attack, they start running away from the entrance and further into the airport seeking cover. The ISIS gunman (circled) bursts into frame in the CCTV footage after terrified passengers fled after a commotion erupted at the entrance of the terminal Passengers realise the airport is under attack and run for cover as the gunman storms into the terminal, in this CCTV footage obtained from a camera behind a shop counter In less than 30 seconds, the whole area is clear and the ISIS gunman can be seen running from the entrance into the centre of the space. He appears unclear on what to do next, shooting randomly around the terminal before throwing his AK-47 to the ground. After picking up his gun he continues to stumble around the terminal before appearing to run back out through the entrance through which he came in. Three suicide bombers went on a coordinated rampage through the terminal on Tuesday night killing 43 people - 19 of them foreigners - and injuring more than 300. The video was obtained by Turkey's Birgun newspaper, and recorded from behind the cashier's desk of a shop in the terminal. Turkey has been plunged into mourning over the carnage at Ataturk airport, the deadliest of several attacks to strike Turkey's biggest city this year. The three smiling suicide bombers are seen walking calmly together towards the airport, wearing heavy clothes with one carrying a bag This is the first clear picture of the man Turkish media are claiming is one of the men who attacked the airport on Tuesday A second suicide bomber can be seen here, making his way through the terminal with what appears to be a gun One of the three terrorists that struck at Turkey's Ataturk Airport wields an AK-47 as he carries out his killing spree (left), while a man carries a wounded boy away from the airport (right) Police carried out more than a dozen raids across Istanbul early Thursday, arresting 13 people including four foreigners, Interior Minister Efkan Ala said. Turkey has suffered a string of deadly attacks in the past year blamed on either ISIS or Kurdish rebels, and the airport attack comes just at the start of the crucial summer tourist season. An image of the three of them walking into the airport together has also been made public, while Turkish officials have revealed the men came from Russia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. It is thought there were eight other people involved in the terror plot. Speaking today, an official said that 'extensive soft-tissue' damage had complicated efforts to identify the attackers. An aerial view of the airport shows where the suicide bombers are believed to have detonated their explosives, close to the entrance to the international arrivals terminal Bodies lie on the pavement outside Istanbul's international airport after explosions and gunfire shook the terminal People who had just arrived at the airport in Istanbul after the blasts were pictured running as they tried to flee the scene A woman cries as people start to gather at the airport on Thursday afternoon for a memorial service to remember those who lost their lives 'A medical team is working around the clock to conclude the identification process,' he told journalists. As they continue attempts to establish exactly who they were, Turkish police located an alleged terrorist hideout said to have been used by the cell to plot the attack. A woman who lives in the same apartment building said: 'There were strange smells. A 14-year-old boy armed himself with a broken bottle and stabbed a classmate in the face while on a school trip after being repeatedly goaded into fighting. Cardiff Crown Court heard the two boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons, began fighting during a school trip to Cardiff city centre, with one needing 12 stitches to a wound to his face. School staff who organised the end-of term trip tried in vain to stop the fighting, which took place in front of Christmas shoppers on December 11 last year. Cardiff Crown Court heard the victim provoked the attack by the other boy after goading him online and in person and ended up needing 12 stitches to a wound to his face, leaving him scarred The court heard the school staff were not aware there had been a simmering social media feud between the two boys for months, leading to the eventual confrontation. If they had been, they probably would not have taken them on the same visit, said prosecutor Tony Trigg. The teenage boy who stabbed the other in the face has now pleaded guilty to a charge of wounding and possessing an offensive weapon. Neither he or the victim, their Cardiff school or its staff can be identified for legal reasons. A judge heard how trouble started immediately when the boy who was to become the victim of the stabbing, saw his rival arriving. The teenage boy who stabbed the other in the face has now pleaded guilty to a charge of wounding and possessing an offensive weapon 'There had been animosity for months - threats and abusive messages had been exchanged with a suggestion that they fight - but unfortunately the teaching assistants with them did not realise the background between them,' Mr Trigg said. 'When they were together in the city centre there was friction immediately. '(The victim) said he straight away contemplated fighting and one of his friends advised him to wait until they were out of sight of the CCTV cameras or the teachers - or preferably both.' A female teaching assistant later told police how the victim was provoking the other boy but he refused to fight, telling him to behave himself. 'But he carried on goading, then attacked him when they were in the Hayes,' Mr Trigg told the court. 'It was an attack, in public, in broad daylight with the defendant being punched and repeatedly kicked while on the ground. 'They were separated by staff but the victim forced his way back in and continued until a member of the public intervened and pulled him away' The boy attacked was said to have been 'angry' as a female member of staff tried to usher him down the street in another direction. Mr Trigg said. 'He kept repeating 'I'm going to stab him' and was looking for a shop to buy a knife when he saw the milk bottle lying on the ground and picked it up. You may be only 14 but you have to make choices for yourself and picking up that bottle was a bad choice. I urge you to take this as the moment you change direction and let's hope it is the last we ever see of you 'He turned back at speed towards the library, striking the bottle against a lampost until the bottom dropped off, leaving two jagged edges. 'He was being pursued by (the female teaching assistant) who was making fruitless efforts to stop him.' The victim came out of the library when friends shouted that the boy was back. 'He came out and punched him then struck him repeatedly, unaware that he was armed with the broken bottle, until he found himself stabbed in the face.' It left a deep laceration - and an attempt was made to stab him in the stomach but was said to have fortunately caused only a small cut. Mr Trigg told the court: 'It was a nasty injury and 12 stitches were needed. It was very fortunate there was no injury to the eyes but there is scarring.' The two pupils were pulled apart by members of the public who again had to intervene - but even then the attack continued. Mr Trigg said: 'The victim realising he himself was badly hurt, attacked again, this time with two others, punching and kicking the defendant on the ground.' The defendant eventually got up and ran and was arrested nearby with bruises on his face from the attacks on him. In court, he was said to have acted under provocation. His barrister Peter Harding-Roberts said he had also ended up in hospital himself. He told the court, the boy had been one of few selected to go on a part-time apprenticeship and it was an opportunity to make something of his life if he was given a chance. Recorder of Cardiff Judge Eleri Rees agreed the provocation had been 'severe' and said the defendant - who was allowed to sit alongside his mother for the hearing which was conducted with the judge having removed her formal wig - had not been the instigator of the event. She imposed a referral order with supervision and a three-month evening curfew. The Recorder told him: 'You may be only 14 but you have to make choices for yourself and picking up that bottle was a bad choice. Suspicions have run high in Italy that Egyptian police were behind murder The 28-year-old had been researching independent trade unions in Egypt Comes following the brutal murder of Italian student Guilio Regeni in Cairo Italy has voted to block a defence contract with Egypt for what it says is a lack of cooperation in investigating the torture and death of a Cambridge University graduate. Medical student Giulio Regeni was abducted in Cairo on January 25. His body, bearing signs of torture, was found nine days later on the side of a suburban Cairo road. Suspicions have run high in Italy that Egyptian police were behind the death, but Egypt has denied any police role. Medical student Giulio Regeni was abducted in Cairo on January 25. His body, bearing signs of torture, was found nine days later on the side of a suburban Cairo road The Italian parliament has now voted to no longer provide spare parts for Egypt's fleet of F16 war planes, as retaliation for perceived inaction by the authorities in Cairo in the murder investigation. Mr Regeni, 28, was researching the activities of independent trade unions in Egypt as part of a PhD thesis at Girton College, work which allegedly attracted the attention of the country's security services. He disappeared in Cairo in January and his corpse was found in a ditch on a busy road leading out of the Egyptian capital more than a week later, his body showing signs of sustained torture. An autopsy examination has revealed that Mr Regeni's neck was twisted or struck which broke a vertebra and left him unable to breathe. Mr Regeni, a student of Cambridge's Department of Politics and International Studies, had been in Cairo for just a few months, as part of his PhD research. He had left his apartment with a plan to travel by subway to meet a friend in the city, but was never seen again. A second autopsy in Italy shed further light into Mr Regeni's death with details so shocking that interior minister Angelino Alfano said he struggled to catch his breath after reading the report. Mr Regeni, a student of Cambridge's Department of Politics and International Studies, had been in Cairo for just a few months, as part of his PhD research Mr Alfano said the student had suffered 'something inhuman, animal-like, an unacceptable violence'. The Italian senate's 159 to 55 vote on Wednesday was largely symbolic since the parts are widely available on the open market. But Sen. Gian Carlo Sangalli, who pushed the amendment through, said he hoped it would 'send a signal to Egypt'. He said Egypt and Italy remain friends and allies, but that Italy wants to 'know the whole truth'. Egypt's foreign ministry called the vote 'inconsistent' with the investigation. In a statement, the ministry added that its ambassador in Rome would deliver the message to Italian authorities. It is unclear if the measure - contained in a bill authorizing foreign missions - would be in the legislation before the lower Chamber of Deputies. They also said in the suit that he's been manipulated by his daughter Dauman and George Abrams contested their removal from the trust and from the board and claimed Redstone is not mentally competent His mental state is at center of fight to determine whether he had capacity to oust Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman and four others from board deteriorated over the years, along with health A court battle for Viacom resumed Thursday in a Massachusetts courtroom as a document showed that media mogul Sumner Redstone can no longer sign his name. The issue now, is whether the 93-year-old knew what he was doing in recent weeks when he reordered the power structure atop his media empire, which includes controlling stakes in Viacom. Redstone's mental state is at the center of the fight to determine whether he had the capacity to oust Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman and four others from the company's board, according to the New York Post. Scroll down for video A court battle for Viacom resumed Thursday in a Massachusetts courtroom as a document showed that media mogul Sumner Redstone can no longer sign his name The issue now is whether the 93-year-old knew what he was doing in recent weeks when he reordered the power structure atop his media empire, which includes controlling stakes in Viacom Redstone's mental state is at the center of the fight to determine whether he had the capacity to oust Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman and four others from the company's board. And one piece of evidence that could be presented is Redstone's signature (pictured), which has deteriorated over the years But Delaware judge Andre Bouchard told lawyers for the five directors, including Dauman, that they could remain in place until he holds a hearing in July on the legality of Redstone's order. One piece of evidence that could be presented is Redstone's signature, which has deteriorated over the years. On June 6 Redstone's Delaware-incorporated National Amusements Inc, which has 80 per cent control of Viacom, replaced the five in a move that would effectively give Viacom vice chair Shari Redstone, who is her ailing father's legal caretaker, control of the company. Dauman and George Abrams shot back with their own Massachusetts lawsuit contesting their removal from the trust and from the board of National Amusements. In their suit, they claimed that Redstone is not mentally competent and has been manipulated by his daughter. Redstone has called that allegation 'offensive and untrue' in court filings. His signature on a document stating that he wants 'any challenge' to his competency to be decided in a Los Angeles court appeared to be a squiggly line compared to his signature in past years. On June 6 Redstone's Delaware-incorporated National Amusements Inc, which has 80 per cent control of Viacom, replaced the five in a move that would effectively give Viacom vice chair Shari Redstone (right), who is her ailing father's legal caretaker, control of the company In a filing with the Norfolk Probate and Family Court, CEO Philippe Dauman and George Abrams asked for a court order requiring Redstone, who has trouble speaking and needs around-the-clock care, to provide medical records relating to his mental condition for the past six years Redstone's lawyer Robert Klieger explained that his client's handwriting deterioration is a function of Redstone's arthritis and his difficulty with his hand that was badly burned in a fire Judge George Phelan is expected to decide whether to the case should take place in his courtroom or in a Los Angeles court closer to Redstone's home, according to the Post. Last week Dauman and board member George Abrams asked a Massachusetts court to require an immediate medical exam of Redstone. Dauman and Abrams pointed to National Amusements' move to replace the five individuals from the company's board, adding that a medical exam was necessary because events impacting Redstone's media empire 'are unfolding at a quick pace, and are in danger of becoming irreversible'. In a filing with the Norfolk Probate and Family Court, Dauman and Abrams also asked for a court order requiring Redstone, who has trouble speaking and needs around-the-clock care, to provide medical records relating to his mental condition for the past six years. Those purporting to act on Redstone's behalf 'have orchestrated one of the most incredible and audacious corporate takeovers in the history of American business,' they wrote in a court filing. Dauman's legal team argued that Redstone is a 'ghost' in legal papers filed Wednesday. Ana Hick with her mother Elga Hick.Ana Hick, 18, who graduated from Loreto College, Dalkey, collapsed and later died after taking ecstasy tablets on a night out in Dublin The mother of a teenage girl who died after taking ecstasy at a nightclub has urged young people to 'value their lives'. Elga Hick's daughter Ana, 18, collapsed outside the Twisted Pepper nightclub in Dublin city centre in May last year after taking the drug. Paramedics performed CPR on her in the street and she was taken to the city's Mater Hospital but died the following day. Ana, from nearby Dun Laoghaire, had been with friends celebrating the end of her first year in college. Her mother said: 'Just a message to all young children out there. You are special. There is only one of you in the world. 'You cannot be replaced. Value your life higher. Be aware.' Ana, who was ambitious but hedonistic, was due to celebrate her 19th birthday two days after her death. A friend told the inquest Ana was not drinking on the night, which she understood meant she was taking ecstasy. The friend said she knew Ana had taken it at least once before and she said 'she was on a good buzz', dancing and joking with friends. The inquest was told Ana met her boyfriend in the club and he was seen taking a clear plastic bag with a number of pills in it from his jeans pocket. He was immediately pushed out the side door of the nightclub by bouncers, but later he came back into the club. The inquest heard she had taken three ecstasy pills. A friend said: She seemed okay, but as time went on she got worse. It was really hot in there.' Anas balance deteriorated, she was leaning against her boyfriend and using a CD to fan herself. A friend told the inquest Ana Hick, pictured, was 'always up for fun. On the night she died she was dancing to a set by DJ Hannah Wants at the nightclub Her friend said: She was standing but she was out of it.' Bouncer Sue Campbell saw her outside at 3am, looking unwell, being held up by two boys, with her legs shaking and her body limp. She said: 'I asked did she want an ambulance and she jumped off the ground like Lazarus. I got a fright.' Paramedic Ross McCob said she had a temperature of 39 degrees in the ambulance on the way to hospital. Dr Niall Mulligan, a pathologist, said he had found she had consumed a lethal dose of MDMA, better known as ecstasy, and had suffered multiple organ failure. The drug stimulates the heart to such a level that it may not function properly, it may stop, he said. The coroner, Dr Myra Cullinane, recorded a verdict of death by misadventure. The inquest heard a file was submitted to Ireland's Director of Public Prosecutions but no charges were brought in relation to Anas death. After the inquest Mrs Hick said: 'I'd like to thank all who attended for showing such bravery in reliving the most painful and tragic events of last May, for standing up to have their witness statements read. A gun-toting would-be killer was put in his place Sunday when a bikini-clad barista he threatened to shoot told him to wait his turn, according to police. Jorge Carrillo, 43, had been to south Modesto's Pink Pantherz Espresso - a drive-thru coffee shop whose staff are all clad in bikinis and lingerie - twice early on Sunday, but returned a third time at 1:30pm with a gun, according to police. Carrillo is alleged to have then pointed the weapon at the head of the woman who was serving him and threatened to shoot her - but she just told him to get in line, the Modesto Bee reported. Outwitted: The woman, who has not been identified, then slipped out the back of the coffee house and ran next door, where she called police. Pictured: Pink Pantherz employees outside a mobile drinks truck The woman, who is not being named, said to the gunman that she needed to serve another customer on the other side of the coffee shop, and turned her back on him. Suspect: Jorge Carrillo (pictured) pulled a gun on the bikini-clad barrista at drive-thru coffee joint Pink Pantherz Espresso in Modesto - but she told him to wait while she served another person, cops said But it was a ruse: the quick-thinking barista took the chance to leave the small building and run to the Family Dollar store next door, where she called police. Police say they arrived just as Carrillo was making his fourth return to the coffee shop. They said they found him to be in possession of a loaded gun, brass knuckles, a knife and thousands of dollars in cash. Carrillo was a regular at the coffee shop, according to Marissa Pinedo, a colleague of the victim. She said that he had never been a problem before, but that it's hard to know what to expect from customers. 'You never know what you are going to get when people walk up to the window,' she said. 'Sometimes people get the wrong impression because of what we wear. They want us to dance or strip for them and get offended when we say "No."' Carrillo was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, possession of loaded and concealed firearm, possession of a dirk or dagger, possession of brass knuckles and making criminal threats. Police said it's not clear what Carrillo's motivation was. A Tory MP burst into tears the moment Boris Johnson announced he was quitting the Tory leadership race today. Nadine Dorries, Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire, couldn't hide her emotion as he told a shocked audience in central London he was not standing because he was not up to the job of being Prime Minister. In a historic day in British politics, the Brexit champion decided to pull out of the race to replace David Cameron after his campaign manager Michael Gove deserted him and declared he was running himself. Footage shows Ms Dorries the moment he made the sensational announcement. Sat in the front row of the audience, tears come to her eyes as she reaches out to fellow Boris backer Nadhim Zahawi for support. Nadine Dorries (pictured), Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire, couldn't hide her emotion as he told a shocked audience in central London he was not standing because he was not up to the job of being Prime Minister. Footage shows Nadine Dorries the moment he made the sensational announcement. Sat in the front row of the audience, tears come to her eyes as she reaches out to fellow Boris backer Nadhim Zahawi for support It reveals just how last-minute the shock announcement was that Mr Johnson - who was previously the favourite in the race - hadn't even told close allies of his decision not to run. She later said today's events had been more dramatic than a Game of Thrones episode. 'Today has been a bit like playing an extra in an episode of Game of Thrones, but with more blood,' she wrote. In his speech, Mr Johnson said the next Prime Minister had to seize Britain's 'moment to stand tall in the world'. 'But I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punch line for this speech, that having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in Parliament, I have concluded that person cannot be me,' he said. 'My role will be to give every possible support to the next Conservative administration, to make sure that we properly fulfill the mandate of the people that was delivered at the referendum and to champion the agenda I believe in.' In a historic day in British politics, the Brexit champion Boris Johnson decided to pull out of the race to replace David Cameron after his campaign manager Michael Gove deserted him and declared he was running himself. Nadine Dorries later said today's events had been more dramatic than a Game of Thrones episode 'Today has been a bit like playing an extra in an episode of Game of Thrones, but with more blood,' she wrote Nadine Dorries had supported Mr Johnson for leader because 'he is a winner' and had led the triumphant Brexit campaign Ms Dorries had supported Mr Johnson for leader because 'he is a winner' and had led the triumphant Brexit campaign. But her endorsement of the old Etonian surprised some in the party considering her comments in 2012 describing David Cameron and George Osborne as 'arrogant posh boys who 'don't know the price of milk'. EIGHT HOURS THAT CHANGED THE FACE OF BRITISH POLITICS 8.57am: Michael Gove tells Boris Johnson he will be standing as Tory leader. 9.02am: Mr Gove issues a statement confirming his candidacy. 9.17am: Andrea Leadsom, another leading Tory Brexiteer, launches her own leadership bid. 9.35am: Chris Grayling, yet another senior member of Vote Leave, introduces Theresa May at her expected leadership campaign launch. 9.57am: Asked why she should be Prime Minister, Mrs May declares it's because she would be best at the job. 10.55am: Dominic Raab, a close of Boris Johnson who today wrote a newspaper column endorsing the ex-London Mayor, appears on Sky News to back Michael Gove. 11.10am: Nicky Morgan and Jeremy Hunt, who both revealed they were considering leadership challenges, drop out and back Michael Gove and Theresa May respectively. 11.44am: Mr Johnson arrives at the St Ermin's Hotel in central London for his leadership campaign launch. 11.53am: Mr Johnson reveals the 'punchline' in his speech is he is not running for leader. 12.00pm: Nominations close. Five candidates have filed papers - Mrs May, Mr Gove, Ms Leadsom, Liam Fox and Stephen Crabb. 4.38pm: Tory MP Jake Berry tweets there is a 'very deep pit reserved in hell' for Mr Gove. 17.02pm: After hours of clips of him insisting he was neither capable of or interested in being Tory leader and Prime Minister, Mr Gove gives an interview explaining he decided to run after allies said 'Michael - it should be you!' Advertisement After Mr Johnson's dramatic announcement today, allies of the former London mayor warned Mr Gove there is a 'deep pit in Hell' waiting for him tonight. Mr Gove delivered a brutal verdict on Mr Johnson's capabilities and questioned whether his 'heart and soul' were in taking us out of the EU, effectively ending his hopes of succeeding David Cameron, as he announced his own bid for Downing Street. Damning his friend with faint praise, Mr Gove said he had 'enjoyed working with him' during the referendum campaign. But he said: 'I realised in the last few days that Boris isnt capable of building that team and providing that unity. 'And so I came reluctantly but firmly to the conclusion that as someone who had argued from the beginning that we should leave the European Union and as someone who wanted ensure that a bold, positive vision for our future was implemented, that I had to stand for leadership of the Conservative party. He added: I thought it was right that following the decision that the people took last week that we should have someone leading the Conservative party and leading the country who believed in their heart and soul that Britain was better off outside the European Union.' As the blows rained down on Mr Johnson this morning, key backers Nick Boles and Dominic Raab defected to Mr Gove's campaign and arch-rival Theresa May won support from Leader of the House Chris Grayling - another Brexit champion. Within hours Mr Johnson, who had been the hot favourite, was using an event that had been intended as his campaign launch to rule himself out. Tory MP Jake Berry posted on Twitter: 'There is a very deep pit reserved in Hell for such as he. #Gove' And an aide is said to have texted a journalist: 'Gove is a c*** who set this up from the start.' Mr Johnson's father Stanley cited the famous Shakespeare rebuke from Julius Caesar after his friend Brutus stabbed him. '"Et tu Brute" is my comment on that,' he told BBC Radio 4. 'I dont think he is called Brutus, but you never know. As a young BBC journalist in 1993, a 25-year-old Michael Gove reported how the 'strange relationships within the Tory party' had thwarted moves to lower the age of consent for gay men. Today - 23 years on - Mr Gove proved those 'strange relationships' in the party were still alive and well after he stabbed fellow Brexit champion Boris Johnson in the back by ditching his leadership bid and declaring he is running to replace David Cameron himself. Mr Gove had put the former London mayor in prime position to enter Downing Street on September 9 after agreeing to be his campaign manager. As a former chief whip and journalist his network within the party is broader than any other Tory MP and - before today at least - he was well-liked and respected among the rank and file - particularly since he led the triumphant campaign for Britain to quit the EU. As a young BBC journalist in 1993, a 25-year-old Michael Gove (pictured) reported how the 'strange relationships within the Tory party' had thwarted moves to lower the age of consent for gay men The pair had shown a united front as they campaigned together on the EU referendum campaign trail, but said events since last Thursday had 'weighed heavily with me'. Mr Gove also once had a close friendship with Prime Minister David Cameron, but that came under increasing strain as the rough and tumble of the campaign battle took its toll. Born in Edinburgh in 1967, Mr Gove, 48, was adopted as a baby by a Labour-supporting couple and brought up in Aberdeen. He studied English at Oxford University and became a journalist, working as a leader writer on The Times as well as for the Aberdeen Press & Journal, where he was involved in a strike over union recognition in 1989. Michael Gove is married to Daily Mail columnist Sarah Vine (pictured with the Justice Secretary and right, with their award-winning dog Snowy) Michael Gove (centre) had put Boris Johnson (left) in prime position to enter Downing Street on September 9 after agreeing to be his campaign manager. As a former chief whip and journalist his network within the party is broader than any other Tory MP and - before today at least - he was well-liked and respected among the rank and file - particularly since he led the triumphant campaign for Britain to quit the EU He is married to Daily Mail columnist Sarah Vine, who yesterday sent an email to the wrong person revealing his concerns about Mr Johnson's leadership bid. Regarded as an intellectual heavyweight, Mr Gove has been responsible for a number of justice policy U-turns since replacing Chris Grayling as Justice Secretary in May last year. After taking over the brief following the general election, arch reformer Mr Gove wasted little time in jettisoning coalition-era Ministry of Justice (MoJ) policies. The most high profile was the decision to wind up an MoJ commercial arm that was undertaking work in countries with questionable human rights records. He also ditched plans for 'secure colleges' for young offenders and eased restrictions on books in prisons. Michael Gove (pictured left entering Number 10 earlier this year) stabbed fellow Brexit champion Boris Johnson in the back by ditching his leadership bid and declaring he is running to replace David Cameron himself. His wife Sarah Vine (right) triggered today's dramatic events by sending an email to the wrong person Michael Gove (pictured left with his wife Sarah Vine, a Daily Mail journalist and right, leaving his home this morning) was born in Edinburgh in 1967 and adopted as a baby by a Labour-supporting couple As a former chief whip and journalist Michael Gove's (pictured at the Tory party conference in 2014) network within the party is broader than any other Tory MP and - before today at least - he was well-liked and respected among the rank and file - particularly since he led the triumphant campaign for Britain to quit the EU As Education Secretary, Mr Gove won admirers and detractors in equal measure as he took on the teaching establishment, which he accused of holding back children's life-chances with its adherence to outdated 1960s methods. He forced through widespread reforms, enacting legislation to allow the creation of free schools within weeks of the 2010 election and ushering more than 400 of them into existence during the course of the Parliament, while also dramatically expanding the academy network. He also spearheaded radical reforms to exams, the curriculum, childcare, primary school testing, teachers' pay and league tables. But he was often a polarising figure, and his time in charge was marked by strikes and claims he was alienating teachers. His replacement in 2014 by Nicky Morgan was widely seen as an attempt to smooth ruffled feathers ahead of the general election, but Downing Street insisted his move to Chief Whip was not a demotion. First elected MP for Surrey Heath in May 2005, Mr Gove served as shadow minister for housing and planning and shadow secretary of state for children, schools and families in opposition, before joining the coalition Cabinet with the education brief following the 2010 general election. Now, 23 years after the fresh-faced Mr Gove appeared on the nation's screens reporting on frustrations among the gay community at the lack of progress from a Tory government, Mr Gove is nine weeks away from potentially becoming Prime Minister. A Fox Business Network producer, a Chipotle executive and an associate at Merrill Lynch are among a group of 18 high-flyers who have been arrested after a massive New York cocaine ring was cracked. Katie Welnhofer, 29, who works on 'Mornings with Maria' on Fox Business, and the Mexican fast food chain's Chief Marketing and Development Officer, Mark Crumpacker, 53, have been indicted after the operation. Christopher Dodson, 28, a client associate at Merrill Lynch, and his brother Austin, 24, an associate at real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield, were also arrested. Underwriting consultant Christian Jewett, 31, Marwood Group senior associate Kyle Holmes, 27, tax accountant Roman Yoffe, 36, and Huffington Post blogger and education professional Alexander Mallory, 31, were also among those indicted. They were all charged with the criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, according to court documents seen by Daily Mail Online. It followed a year-long investigation into a massive drug ring that sold $75,000 worth of cocaine and operated from the Lower East Side. Katie Welnhofer, 29, who works on 'Mornings with Maria' on Fox Business, has been arrested as part of a huge crackdown on cocaine buyers in New York She was led into Manhattan Criminal Court on Thursday morning in a jumpsuit with handcuffs and with her hair pulled back. She is named for a March and a May cocaine purchase in the indictment Three kingpins Kenny 'Jay' Hernandez, Felix Nunez and Oscar Almonte were also arrested. They allegedly used livery services to deliver cocaine to customers throughout Manhattan. The probe is believed to have begun after investment banker Thomas Hughes jumped to his death from his 24th floor luxury apartment in May last year. Reports suggest police found the number of his dealer on his cell phone when they searched his home. Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance said: 'Drug dealers profit by sowing seeds of addiction that destroy lives, families, and communities. 'We are dedicated to stemming both the supply and demand for dangerous narcotics, and the crime that accompanies the market for illegal drugs.' She was led back to the cells after the short hearing. She was one of 18 people arrested in the operation Welnhofer, who hails from Illinois, has previously worked on Good Morning America The producer (pictured third from left) attended Eric Trump and Lara Yunaska's lavish wedding in 2014 Maria Bartiromo is the anchor of 'Mornings with Maria' on Fox Business. She was nicknamed 'Money Honey' in the 1990s for being the first woman to report live from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange The investigation is believed to have begun after successful investment banker Thomas J Hughes (above) jumped to his death from his 24th floor luxury Manhattan apartment in May 2015 'I thank my Office's prosecutors and our partners at the NYPD, and in particular, the undercover detectives who put their lives at risk to protect our City's residents,' said Police Commissioner William J. Bratton. 'This narcotics operation was organized and discreet, but it could not withstand the precision of this long-term investigation'. 'Selling cocaine in a variety of bars and clubs throughout Manhattan, the ringleader also allegedly sold to NYPD undercovers on more than a dozen instances. 'I commend the brave work of all the investigators who built this case, along with the Violent Criminal Enterprises Unit at District Attorney Vance's Office.' From June 2015, they were allegedly obtaining, transporting, processing, packaging, selling, and delivering large quantities of powder cocaine to customers throughout Manhattan, the indictment reads. Kenny Herndandez, the alleged leader of the cocaine ring, walks into court to face the judge He is accused of using a livery service to distribute cocaine to multiple locations, including pharmacies Hernandez oversaw the ring and personally conducted the vast majority of the sales, including eleven separate sales to undercover detectives. As detailed in the indictment, members of the ring allegedly used car services to deliver the drugs to buyers, including to delis, restaurants, bars, apartments, hotels, and the buyers workplaces. The defendants delivered to locations across Manhattan, including the Lower East Side, the Upper East Side, Chelsea, the Financial District, and Midtown, as well as areas of Brooklyn and Queens. Many of the sales took place in delis or Duane Reade and CVS pharmacies. Customers generally paid between $200 and $300 per transaction. Welnhofer and the Dodsons were arraigned in Manhattan Criminal Court on Thursday morning. According to the indictment, Welnhofer made two purchases of cocaine - one in March and one in May - to an address on West 25th Street. The producer was led into the court in a jumpsuit with handcuffs and with her hair pulled back. She was held on $15,000 bail. According to her Facebook profile, Welnhofer is from Wilmette, Illinois. Before joining Fox Business, where she produces for 'Money Honey' Maria Bartiromo, she worked for One World Sports. The Northwestern University graduate has also been a producer of Good Morning America and had stints at Inside Edition and CNBC. In November 2014, she attended Eric Trump and Lara Yunaska's lavish wedding. At the time she and Lara were colleagues at Inside Edition. It is not believed that she and the Trumps remain friends but she does still post on his social media pages. It is her 30th birthday on Friday. Christopher Dodson, a client associate for Merrill Lynch, was one of those collared in the operation He bowed his head as he was formally charged with possession of cocaine. He was an All American lacrosse player at Dickinson Police say that members of the drug ring, including Dodson, had cocaine delivered to their homes Austin Dodson, Chris' brother, looked stunned as he appeared in court. He is an associate at real estate firm Cushman and Wakefield Austin Dodson is pictured leaving Manhattan Criminal Court with his girlfriend Rosalin Savoie Dodson (right) leaves court after his family posted bail. He bought cocaine twice - one in February and once in March, according to the indictment Austin Dodson met his 23-year-old girlfriend (pictured together) at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania Christopher Dodson made at least 17 purchases of cocaine between January and May this year. Many of the transactions occurred in Duane Reade pharmacies. His brother Austin bought cocaine twice - one in February and once in March. According to the indictment, the March purchase was made at a restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. Both Austin and Christopher Dodson played lacrosse at Dickinson College in Pennsylvania after graduating from the elite Landon School. Austin met his girlfriend Rosalin Savoie, 23, a marketing co-ordinator with Rimmel London, at Dickinson, where she played soccer. Savoie, of Bethel, Connecticut, was pictured picking him after he posted bail on Thursday evening. Roman Yoffe, 36, a tax accountant, also appeared in court as his pregnant wife sat in the public gallery. He made at least seven cocaine purchases that were delivered to his Water Street place of work, according to the indictment. One was made in a Gristedes supermarket. Roman Yoffe, 36, (pictured in court) was also arrested in the operation. The accountant made repeated orders of cocaine to his work, according to the indictment Yoffe appeared in court as his pregnant wife Katya Rayevsky Yoffe sat in the public gallery Yoffe and his wife are pictured on a night out together. He made at least seven cocaine purchases that were delivered to his Water Street place of work Mark Crumpacker, 53, was named Chipotle's first Chief Marketing Officer in January 2009. According to his LinkedIn page he oversees all of the company's marketing functions including advertising, design, events, public relations, social media, and research. Sources told Daily Mail Online Crumpracker is set to surrender in the next couple of days. He made six purchases between January and May, all delivered to his home on West 13th Street in the West Village. Many were made in February and March of 2016, the height of his busy tax season. Mark Crumpacker, Chipotle's Chief Creative and Development Officer, has also been indicted but not yet surrendered Huffington Post education blogger Alex Mallory was among those arrested in the huge undercover operation He wore jeans as he was led into the courtroom at the Manhattan Criminal Court. He went to high school at Manhattan's pricey Fieldston school before graduating with honors from Williams In 2013, Crumpacker was named Chipotle's Chief Development Officer and now leads the company's real estate, design, construction and facilities functions worldwide. Prior to joining Chipotle, he was the founder, CEO and Creative Director at Sequence, a San Francisco-based branding and interactive agency. Mallory has blogged on Huffington Post, went to Manhattan's Fieldston school before Williams and also founded the company Competitive Edge Tutoring. He made seven purchases between March and May this year, five at a CVS pharmacy near Washington Square Park and two at his home address in the West Village. Kyle Holmes, 27, of Astoria, Queens, a Senior Associate at healthcare focused financial services firm the Marwood Group, was also indicted. He made at least six purchases of cocaine between January and April. One purchase, in March, was delivered to the Quality Italian restaurant on West 57th Street. Mallory is seen lying on his huge dog in this photo uploaded to his Facebook account Kyle Holmes, 27, of Astoria, Queens, also appeared in court on charges he possessed cocaine Holmes made at least six purchases of cocaine between January and April. One purchase, in March, was delivered to the Quality Italian restaurant on West 57th Street A bizarre museum dedicated to Swedish furniture store Ikea has opened to the public to celebrate the shop's history. Based on the site of its first ever store in Almhult, Sweden, the unusual museum boasts a string of exhibitions focusing on its roots, journey and the stories of its buyers. Ikea first opened in 1958 by founder Ingvar Kamprad who had a dream of selling well-designed furniture at an affordable price. This photograph shows one of the exhibition pieces at the newly-opened Ikea museum in Almhult Sweden Living room interior from one of Ikea's catalogues - along with a information board - is one of the site's attractions The museum boasts a spacious, stylish interior with a lighted staircase and information boards hanging from the ceiling A kitchen which is part of Ikea's temporary exhibition and right, customers share their stories about Billy bookcase and Klippan sofa This huge table holds a selection of multi-coloured material samples which visitors can pick up and read about Ikea first opened in 1958 by Ingvar Kamprad (pictured) who had a dream of selling well-designed furniture at an affordable price. Opening today, the website reads: 'We will be sharing everything that makes IKEA what it is today, and what it may be tomorrow: the ideas and the driving forces, the people and the furniture, the mistakes and the lessons learned.' It adds that it hopes visitors will get a 'better understanding' of how the company works, while explaining 'our origins, our values and our company culture'. The extraordinary gallery is set over 7,000 square metres and includes a whopping 20,000 objects among its archives and exhibitions. Guided tours of the site - which last 45 minutes - are available in Swedish, English and German. Open daily from 10am until 7pm, the museum also features a temporary exhibition - which currently looks into the life of the kitchen - a restaurant, shop and educational facilities. And it even has an entire area dedicated to buyers where families have shared their stories on how they decorated their home with Ikea products. This particular part of the exhibition displays furniture, such as chairs and lights, and staff uniform from the 1950s Another display at the Ikea museum's temporary exhibition, which currently focuses around kitchens This colourful wall display welcomes visitors into its main exhibition, which focuses on the store's roots, journey and the stories of its buyers Furniture pieces since the 1950s - when the first Ikea store opened - line the rooms inside the museum Creative leader at the museum, Cia Eriksson (pictured), gave a tour to groups at the site's opening today Ikea founder Ingvar Kamprads sits at a desk in the mid 1960s - just as his stores were taking off across the globe The museum takes a close look at Mr Kamprad's childhood in 19th-century Smaland, and the conditions that unfolded in the country where the youngster's dreams took off. At the age of five, Mr Kamprad started selling matches to nearby neighbours. Over time - and with the help of his bicycle - he began trading further afield, and sold products such as flower seeds and pencils. Beginning as a makeshift mail order service, the first Ikea store opened in 1958. Ikea has a series of stores across 28 different countries. The newly-opened museum sits inside this stylish buildng in Almhult, Sweden, and boasts 20,000 objects as part of its exhibitions Attack may be linked to death of homeless man stabbed 50 times Monday Police arrested Hart just five minutes away from the theater Then threw away 'large kitchen knife' in trash before walking out of lobby Delonte Anthony Hart, 23, allegedly came behind him and attacked Adam Lucero was stabbed at the Roxy Stadium 14 theater in Santa Rosa Delonte Anthony Hart, 23, was arrested for allegedly stabbing Adam Lucero, 21, at a Santa Rosa theater A 21-year-old California man is fighting for his life after he was brutally stabbed by a stranger while watching Blake Lively's new film The Shallows in a movie theater. Adam Lucero was watching the thriller at the Roxy Stadium 14 in Santa Rosa when Delonte Anthony Hart, 23, allegedly came up behind him and began to stab him multiple times. Police said Lucero was stabbed several times in the throat, chest and arm just 30 minutes after the movie started on Wednesday afternoon. Hart walked out of the theater lobby after throwing a knife in a trash can outside the auditorium, according to the Press Democrat. People in the nearly empty theater rushed to help the victim, who was conscious but taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Santa Rosa Police Capt Ray Navarro told the Daily Mail Online the suspect is expected to survive but has 'significant' injuries to his upper body. Police said Hart was arrested within minutes after the stabbing was reported. He is now in custody for attempted murder. Hart appeared 'calm and nonchalant' at the time of his arrest, according to Sgt Josh Ludtke. Authorities said the stabbing appears to be unprovoked and it has been classified as 'random'. A weapon, which Navarro described as a 'large kitchen knife', was recovered from the scene. Hart is homeless and has only been in the Santa Rosa area for about four months, police said. He is originally from Baltimore, Maryland. Lucero is fighting for his life after he was brutally stabbed in the throat and chest while watching Blake Lively's new film The Shallows on Wednesday Authorities said Hart had recently been arrested for being drunk in public.It is not yet known if he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the theater stabbing. Detectives are now asking the public to help learn more about Hart's recent activities and whereabouts to see if he was involved in any other violent crimes, Navarro told Daily Mail Online. Authorities are also trying to determine if Hart is responsible for another random stabbing that took place in the city just two days before. Homeless man Cirak Tesfazgi, 32, was killed just after midnight on Monday. He was discovered with 50 stab wounds in a doorway where he often slept in the downtown area. A bent chef's knife was found on the ground near his body. 'Based on the randomness of the act, the brutality of the act, certainly he's a person we're looking into as a suspect,' Ludtke said of the 23-year-old. The two-story movie theater's entire upstairs was closed for the rest of the night on Wednesday so that police could collect evidence. It was expected to be fully open on Thursday. Whoever said 'love knows no bounds' had probably never met this adorable Frenchie or her koi carp best friend, but the statement rings true none-the-less. Meet Daisy, the French Bulldog from Seattle who loves nothing more than to share some 'kisses' with her unlikely bestie, Frank. The pair have amassed almost 3,000 followers on Instagram, where their beautiful friendship is documented, along with the lives of their fellow dog and fish companions. A video posted by Tomato & Company (@cnote76) on Apr 26, 2016 at 9:22pm PDT Daisy the French Bulldog, who lives in Seattle with her owner, has formed an unlikely friendship with Frank the koi carp as the pair share 'kisses' at the edge of Frank's pond Video of the pair shows Daisy sitting at the edge of Frank's pond and ignoring several other fish who emerge to see what's going on until Frank appears so she can move in for a smooch Daisy is one of three French Bulldogs owned by a user who identifies herself only as 'Tomato & Company', the other two being called Tomato and Walter. Frank is one of 11 koi and a goldfish that live together, though it is not clear from the Instagram page what the other fish are called. Describing her life, the woman writes: 'Three French Bulldogs and a bunch of koi fish share their adventures and trials in life, made public by popular demand. I ride motorcycles, knit, cook, and love the beauty of life.' Videos of the pair show Daisy waiting patiently at the side of the pond for Frank to appear, shunning several other fish who come up to take a peek. But as soon as golden koi Frank appears she leans in close for a smooch as he comes up to the surface to greet her. While you might expect a fish to be put off by being licked on the face, Frank appears to love it, moving back in for more after drifting away in the water. Daisy is perhaps the most famous dog of the family, but she is not alone, living with fellow Frenchies Tomato (right) and Walter (center) Donald Trump tried something different on Thursday, hosting about 120 people for a small-scale town hall event about trade issues in a parking lot that could easily hold 5,000. For his trouble, he got a one-on-one exchange with an elderly anti-semite who insisted 'Zionists' are dictating American military policy. Warren Goddard of Portsmouth grabbed the microphone from an aide for what was to be the final question of the day, and delivered a pair of zingers. 'Number one, I'm opposed to the murder of unborn babies being legal,' he said. 'Number two, I'm opposed to our wasting our military in the Middle East on behalf of Zionist Israel.' Trump was unflappable, staring him down. 'Lemme just tell you that Israel is a very, very important ally of the United States,' he replied. 'And we are going to protect them 100 per cent. 100 percent! They've been our most reliable it's our true friend over there and we're going to protect Israel 100 per cent.' 'As to number one,' Trump added about abortion, 'we're with you.' Scroll down for video UNUSUAL: Donald Trump talked about trade and job outsourcing to just 120 people in a parking lot that could have held 5,000 trying a town hall format that nearly backfired on him when an old man put his anti-semitism on display After calling the anti-Israel jab 'nasty,' Trump patted himself on the back for facing the unknown and opening himself up to tough questions. 'Do you think Hillary Clinton would ever do a news conference like this? Totally unvetted?' he asked, before executing a nonsequitur-pivot. 'And speaking of unvetted, we're going to take care of our vets!' Goddard was seen sitting in the shade before the Trump event began, far away from the rest of the crowd, talking to someone on his cell phone. Retail: Trump took questions from supporters at the town hall-style meeting 'Well, I just came over,' he said. 'they closed the gates, but I'm in here now.' The afternoon event was supposde to be invite-only. Security officers on-site said they were unaware of whether or not he was admitted by mistake. The cantankerous Goddard told DailyMail.com after Trump spoke that the Pentagon habitually invades countries 'on orders from Zionist Israel.' 'We went into Iraq on orders from Netanyahu. That's clearly the case. And we lost 5,000 men!' he said, arms gesticulating. Asked how he knows 'Zionists' are directing America's military appparatus, he responded: 'Very simple. Because they are.' Goddard wouldn't say whether or not he was satisfied with Trump's answers. But he indicated that he would vote for the Republican in November. 'I can't go with Hillary,' he said. 'She's evil!' 'ZIONIST' CONSPIRACY: Warren Goddard from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, declared that American military policy in the Middle East was being directed by Benjamin Netanyahu but Trump insisted that he would always side with Israel '100 per cent' He spoke at a Sylvania factory that is expected to meet the wrecking ball soon Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, had just wrapped up more than an hour of talking about trade and job outsourcing in a New Hampshire setting that recalled the tiny audiences who watched also-ran candidates in the Granite State just five months ago. There were no rally signs, no shouts of 'Trump! Trump! Trump!' and no sternum-shaking, high decibel music. The silence was nearly as deafening as the occasional airplane that passed overhead on its way to the Manchester airport, drowning out America's loudest politician for moments at a time. 'That could be a Mexican plane up there!' Trump quipped after the third airliner stepped on his messages. 'They're getting ready to attack!' Mexico was on the real estate tycoon's mind all afternoon, urging a return to the days of 'Made in the USA' labeling campaigns, even at the risk of shutting out cheaper goods from overseas. 'We're better off paying a little bit more and having jobs,' he said a position that Republicans would bristle at if it came from a Democrat. 'We do a higher-quality good, and we're known for that,' Trump said, while allowing that American products often can't compete on price. 'The goods can come in cheaply' from overseas, he sighed, but unemployed Americans 'don't have any money to buy them.' Drone on: Trump joked that a loud airplane overhead was probably a Mexican plane 'ready to attack' Of counsel? Former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, who recently got fired and now consults for CNN on the air, was spotted heading to the event backstage Trump held a more traditional rally in Bangor, Maine Wednesday Trump spoke in a decrepit parking lot behind an industrial building that housed an Osram Sylvania plant until September 2014. When it closed, 139 full-time jobs went with it. The company blamed changes in consumer demand for traditional lighting fixtures, not trade imbalances with foreign coutries, for the outpost's demise. But Trump said the jobs fled south of the border to Mexico, and also to China. 'This is the legacy of Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton,' he insisted, tracing job losses back to the former president's signature on the North American Free Trade Agreement and the inclusion of China in the World Trade Organization. He said he would use the carrot-and-stick approach of tariffs on products made by American outsourcers and tax breaks for companies that come home all in a bid to restore the country's once-great manufacturing muscle. 'Were going to simplify the tax code, and we're going to cut the hell out of taxes,' he pledged. Trump introduced one man who he said 'had the distinct lack of honor of training people from Mexico to take his job.' 'Mike,' the former Sylvania employee with 29 years on the job, 'took a large group of people he trained them! they're right now down in Mexico,' Trump said. The man took the microphone to say he was a Trump-backer. 'This place used to be a place I called home, where my bread and butter was,' he told the crowd. 'I continue to work and prosper but it's just heartbreaking, heartbreaking to see jobs go to Mexico.' Trump rattled off a list of other companies that pulled jobs out of New Hampshire and relocated them to Mexico, among them Rockwell Automation and Ethan Alllen Interiors. He called the regional job loses 'fantastically bad and disgraceful.' The Sylvania building site is now expected to meet a wrecking ball before construction starts on a $60 million shopping center. Trump has railed against America's global trade environment for the loss of 'good' manufacturing jobs and the rise of 'bad' service-sector positions many of them part-time gigs. Thursday's event was originally slated to be a scripted speech before invited guests, according to a campaign aide, but morphed into a town hall-style campaign stop. The billionaire is accustomed to speaking before crowds of between 5,000 and 20,000 screaming fans. But the group who met his gaze in Manchester was barely 120-strong. The press corps covering Trump, too, was a skeleton crew fewer than a dozen video cameras and barely 20 print reporters. The open-air environment and the bare-bones feel resembled a New Hampshire primary stop by a third-tier candidate, not a flag-planting economics lecture by a top White House contender. Trump made the case on Wednesday that such small-scale retail politicking was intentionally left out of his playbook in favor of mega-rallies in high school gyms and concert halls. 'When I was in the primaries, everyone said, You can't do that in New Hampshire. You can't do that. You have to go and meet little groups",' he recalled during a rally in Bangor, Maine. 'Because I did these big rallies where three, four, five thousand people would come ... we'd pack the places. And that's never happened before.' Trump eschewed some small-scale events during the primaries because he said he thought people would think, 'I got Trump in my living room! This is weird!' The scene at a Trump rally in Manchester back in February the day before voters went to the polls 'And they said, "Wait a minute! Trump can never make it, because that's not the way you deal with New Hampshire",' he continued. '"You have to go into people's living rooms, have dinner, have tea, have a good time".' 'I think if they ever saw me sitting in their living room, they'd lose total respect for me. They'd say, "What? I got Trump in my living room! This is weird!"' While the back lot of an abandoned light factory isn't exactly a backyard barbecue, Trump's embrace of a smaller stage that's not open to his rowdy throngs represents a tactical shift. He was in the Granite State less than three weeks ago, again speaking before an intimate gathering for a speech that was originally slated as a slash-and-burn attack on Hillary Clinton. After an Islamic jihadi killed 49 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando, however, he shifted focus to talk about terrorism. Tory master-strategist Sir Lynton Crosby told Boris Johnson to quit just an hour after Michael Gove launched a devastating assault on his character yesterday, it has emerged. The Australian, who captained David Cameron's surprise election victory last year, told the former London mayor that Mr Gove's brutal intervention had wrecked his dream of becoming prime minister. Sir Lynton, who was running Mr Johnson's campaign, said an immediate withdrawal from the leadership race was his only hope of escaping with some of his dignity intact. Scroll down for video Mr Gove telephoned Sir Lynton Crosby to say he was withdrawing his support shortly before making his bombshell announcement at 9am, leading Sir Lynton to warn Boris Johnson that an immediate withdrawal from the leadership race would be the only way to save face With Mr Johnson scheduled to launch his campaign just two hours later, he had to make an immediate call on whether to fight on The move came after Mr Gove telephoned Sir Lynton to say he was withdrawing his support shortly before making his bombshell announcement at 9am. Sources close to the Justice Secretary claim he tried to call Mr Johnson directly but 'couldn't get through' a claim disputed by friends of Mr Johnson. It was then left to a furious Sir Lynton to break the news to the man he had guided to two victories in London. Mr Gove's statement, in which he questioned Mr Johnson's commitment to Brexit and suggested he was not fit to be prime minister, led to an immediate haemorrhaging of support for the frontrunner who had led the campaign to get Britain out of the EU. Skills minister Nick Boles immediately announced he was deserting Mr Johnson for Mr Gove, as did Dominic Raab. The justice minister had hailed Mr Johnson as a 'Heineken politician' in yesterday's Sun newspaper, adding: 'I struggle with the idea that an 'Anyone But Boris' candidate would be well placed to build unity.' BORIS' ALLIES ON MICHAEL GOVE There is a very deep pit reserved in Hell for such as he. Tory MP Jake Berry 'Et tu Brute' is my comment on that. I don't think he is called Brutus, but you never know. Boris Johnson's father Stanley on Michael Gove It just reminds me of student union politics. I can't be dealing with this and I think it's shameful. Sir Edward Garnier He [Gove] clearly thought that [US political drama] House of Cards was a training manual. Tory MP James Cleverly Advertisement With Mr Johnson scheduled to launch his campaign just two hours later, he had to make an immediate call on whether to fight on. The decision to quit was taken with Sir Lynton, a small group of aides and his wife Marina. Even MPs backing his campaign were not informed. As journalists gathered for his launch event at a Westminster hotel, rumours swirled that he would not turn up. But when Mr Johnson eventually arrived, he was greeted with wild cheers from supporters and there was no clue that he was about to quit. As he began his speech it appeared that he would press ahead with his campaign, telling supporters it was 'not a time to quail'. Britain had a chance 'to think globally again, to lift our eyes to the horizon, to bring our uniquely British voice and values, powerful, humane, progressive, to the great global forums without being elbowed aside by a supranational body,' he said. The agenda for the next PM would be to 'seize this chance and make this our moment to stand tall in the world.' But, with just ten minutes to go until the noon deadline for nominations for the Conservative leadership, Tory grandee Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee, was sat in the Commons growing increasingly anxious that he had heard nothing from the Johnson camp. Half a mile away, Mr Johnson was about to unleash his own bombshell. As his speech concluded, he told supporters and journalists: 'I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punchline of this speech, that having consulted colleagues, and in view of the circumstances in Parliament, I have concluded that person cannot be me.' It was left to a furious Sir Lynton to break the news to Mr Johnson, the man he had guided to two victories in London, that Mr Gove had launched his own bid for the Tory leadership. Pictured, Sir Lynton at Mr Johnson's press conference on Thursday Mr Gove's statement, in which he questioned Mr Johnson's commitment to Brexit and suggested he was not fit to be prime minister, led to an immediate haemorrhaging of support for the frontrunner who had led the campaign to get Britain out of the EU The decision also sparked a furious backlash from Mr Johnson's critics, who accused him of taking Britain out of Europe 'for nothing'. Former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine accused him of 'contemptible' irresponsibility Long-time supporters, such as Tory MPs Nadine Dorries and Nadhim Zahawi, stared in open-mouthed shock as Mr Johnson revealed he was pulling out, while journalists sprinted from the room to report the news. James Cleverly, another MP supporter, fought back tears and said: 'I'm gutted'. In a bitter attack on Mr Gove, Mr Cleverly said: 'Some people seem to think [US political drama] House of Cards is a training manual.' Even Mr Johnson's minister brother Jo did not appear to know he was pulling out. Asked what had gone wrong, he replied tersely: 'Ask Michael Gove.' The decision also sparked a furious backlash from Mr Johnson's critics, who accused him of taking Britain out of Europe 'for nothing'. Former deputy prime minister Lord Heseltine accused him of 'contemptible' irresponsibility. 'There will be a profound sense of dismay and, frankly, contempt. He has ripped the party apart,' he said. 'He has created the greatest constitutional crisis in modern times. He has knocked billions off the value of the nation's savings. The MP had been favourite to win the leadership after securing the Brexit vote and had 81 nominations from Tory MPs far ahead of his rivals 'He is like a general who led his army to the sound of guns and at the sight of the battlefield abandoned the field to the claims of his adjutant who said he wasn't up to the job in the first place. 'I have never seen such a contemptible and irresponsible situation. He must live with the shame of what he has done.' On Twitter, the actor Ewan McGregor sent a foul-mouthed rant to Mr Johnson, saying: 'You spineless ****. You lead this ludicrous campaign to leave EU. Win, and now f*** off to let someone else clear up your mess.' Mr Johnson has dreamed of being prime minister since childhood, when he would tell adults he wanted to be 'world king' when he grew up. The MP had been favourite to win the leadership after securing the Brexit vote and had 81 nominations from Tory MPs far ahead of his rivals. Yesterday's events appeared to dash his hopes of ever becoming premier. But last night allies insisted that he would not depart Westminster and could yet serve in the Cabinet. A friend of Mr Johnson said he had 'no intention of quitting front line politics'. The White House is sending Hillary Clinton reinforcements on the campaign trail in the form of President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. The Clinton campaign announced Wednesday that Obama would join his former rival on the trail July 5 in Charlotte, North Carolina, a Republican-run state where Clinton is ahead of Donald Trump, but only by two in a CBS poll that came out this week. Now the Democrat's campaign says Biden will make an appearance with Clinton, as well, on July 8. They'll campaign together in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he was born and raised. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO The White House is sending Hillary Clinton reinforcements on the campaign trail in the form of President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden President Barack Obama (left) wasn't a huge fan of Hillary Clinton (right), now his party's likely nominee, but their relationship eventually warmed up. A point he plans to make to the American people when he campaigns for her next week in North Carolina Clinton's father also grew up in Scranton. She regularly props up her grandfather's work at a lace mill there as evidence of her family's working-class roots. Despite the state's strong ties to labor, Clinton is struggling to break away from Trump. A Quinnipiac University poll taken earlier this month had her winning by a single percentage point, 42-41. Her Super PAC has come to the rescue and will drop $10.5 million on ads there next month. It's spending $117.5 million in ads spread over nine states, including North Carolina, which Obama won in 2008 but Mitt Romney won in 2012. Clinton's own campaign is running ads in North Carolina and seven other battleground states she's worried about losing to Trump. Obama was supposed to make his first foray on the trail with Clinton in Green Bay, Wisconsin, a week after endorsing her Oval Office bid. Then, an extremist attacked a gay night club in Orlando, and the president postponed the trip indefinitely. The White House had been tight-lipped about when their joint appearance would be rescheduled. President Obama wasn't always a huge fan of his 2008 Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, at one point candidly saying she was 'likable enough.' Looking for an authentic way to get voters excited about a Clinton candidacy, Obama plans to remind the electorate that his lukewarm attitude toward her eventually warmed up, reported Politico. 'He can make the case as the highest profile convert to be her supporter,' explained White House communications director Jen Psaki to the online publication. NOT A FAN: In the run-up to the 2008 election tensions flared between Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton, with him proclaiming once on the Democratic debate stage that she was 'likable enough' WAIT YOUR TURN: Hillary Clinton and her allies didn't appreciate the gall of Sen. Barack Obama, who announced his bid for the White House after spending just about two years in the U.S. Senate Democrats are realizing that Clinton can't just be the anti-Donald Trump if they hope to win the White House by comfortable margins. 'You want people to feel as passionate about Hillary Clinton being president as they do about stopping Donald Trump. If this isn't a close race, it's still going to matter a great deal for her presidency,' David Plouffe, Obama's 2008 campaign manager, told Politico. 'That's one place where we need to see some improvement, on the intensity side of the Clinton question,' added Plouffe, who now consults for Obama and the Clinton campaign. While Obama and Clinton had served in the U.S. Senate together, Clintonworld collectively scoffed when Obama, a first-term senator from Illinois who had previously served in the state senate, threw his hat in the presidential ring in February 2007. But a year later, after improbably winning the Iowa caucuses, Obama's candidacy had taken off. The two Democrats had a protracted and bitter primary with Clinton eventually throwing in the towel in early June, endorsing Obama at the same time. They appeared together in Unity, New Hampshire to show the the country they'd buried the hatchet. By the time the Democratic National Convention rolled around in 2008, the relationship between presumptive nominee Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton was already thawing In the final days of the 2008 election, Sen. Barack Obama and his former rival Sen. Hillary Clinton were attached at the hip, with Obama asking Clinton to serve as secretary of state shortly after his election Once Obama won the White House, he asked Clinton to become his secretary of state, bringing them even closer together. Now, eight years later, Obama is ready to assist Clinton the way that she boosted him after a long, grueling Democratic primary. He's also ready to pay back Bill Clinton, who played the role of 'secretary of explaining stuff,' during his tough 2012 re-election campaign against Republican Mitt Romney. As Politico put it, now Obama will be the 'secretary of explaining her.' Two days after the California primary and just hours after meeting with her rival, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, at the White House President Obama threw his weight behind his party's likely nominee via a web video. He'll hit the trail for her next week president as he tries to shore up her support within sections of the Democratic base, including young, progressive and anti-establishment voters, who were more attracted to Sanders' candidacy than Clinton's and are in danger of tuning out. And Obama will, of course, take on Trump too, something that particularly delights the current commander-in-chief as the billionaire was one of the loudest behind the 'birther' movement, which eventually forced Obama to produce his long-form birth certificate to quash rumors that he was secretly born in Africa. 'The way the president sees it is: there will be a lot of people out there talking about Donald Trump there's more than enough material,' said Psaki, the White House communications director. Joshua Brown, 40, was in the Tesla Model S car when it collided with a tractor trailer earlier this month in A former Navy SEAL has become the first person to die at the wheel of a self-driving car - and a witness has claimed he was watching a Harry Potter movie when his Tesla collided with a truck while on autopilot. Joshua Brown, 40, died after his computer-guided Tesla Model S plowed into a tractor trailer on a freeway in Williston, Florida, in May. Despite the claim, Tesla says it is not possible to play films on the vehicle's touchscreen - however it is possible Brown was using another device. The driver of the truck, Frank Baressi, said the Tesla driver was 'playing Harry Potter on the TV screen' at the time of the crash. 'It was still playing when he died and snapped a telephone pole a quarter mile down the road,' Baressi, 62, said. 'He went so fast through my trailer I didn't see him,' he added. Baressi says he only heard the movie in the aftermath of the crash - and police did not mention the driver being distracted by a film in any of their reports. Tesla said its autopilot system failed to detect the truck because its white color was similar to that of the bright sky, adding that the driver also made no attempt to hit the brakes. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating. Preliminary reports suggest Baressi's truck left in front of Brown's Tesla at an intersection of a divided highway where there was no traffic light, officials said. By the time firefighters arrived, the wreckage of the Tesla - with its roof sheared off completely - had come to rest in a nearby yard hundreds of feet from the crash site, assistant chief Danny Wallace of the Williston Fire Department said. It has also emerged that Brown - who served in the Navy for 11 years - narrowly avoided a very similar smash earlier this year, when his car did not notice a white truck turning in on him on the freeway. The driver of the truck, Frank Baressi, said the Tesla driver was 'playing Harry Potter on the TV screen' at the time of the crash. Tesla said it is impossible to play movies on its screens (file picture) Billionaire chief executive of Tesla Motors Elon Musk tweeted his condolences following Brown's death Tesla confirmed the man's 'tragic' death, but defended its vehicles, saying they were safer than other cars. 'This is the first known fatality in just over 130 million miles where Autopilot was activated. Among all vehicles in the US, there is a fatality every 94 million miles,' the company said in a statement. It said neither the driver nor the car hit the brakes as the trailer passed over the Tesla, with the self-driving vehicle colliding with the bottom of the truck. The company claimed that had the trailer crashed into the front or the rear of the Model S, the driver would have survived. The statement added that motorists should keep their hands on the wheel and 'be prepared to take over at any time'. Tesla informed the NHTSA, which has launched an investigation. It has called for 'an examination of the design and performance of any driving aids in use at the time of the crash'. The agency has not demanded a recall of the vehicles. Brown died of injuries caused in the crash on May 7. He was involved in a similar near-miss on April 5 and posted a video of the close call online. The video shows the Canton, Ohio, resident taking manual control of the Tesla to swerve out of the way of a white truck as it moved in front of him on the freeway. STEERING, AVOIDING CRASHES & PARKING: TESLA AUTOPILOT'S FUNCTIONS Autosteer: This feature, which is currently in beta, keeps the car in the current lane and engages Traffic-Aware Cruise Control to maintain the car's speed. Tesla requires drivers to remain engaged and aware when Autosteer is enabled and drivers must keep their hands on the steering wheel. Auto Lane Change: When the driver flicks the indicator switch and turn signal, the Model S will move itself to the adjacent lane when safe to do so. Automatic Emergency Steering and Side Collision Warning: Side Collision Warning alerts drivers to objects, such as cars, that are too close to the side of Model S. When the car detects an object close to its side, fluid lines will appear around an image of the Model S image in the instrument panel. Autopark: When driving at low speeds around cities, a 'P' will appear on the instrument panel when the Tesla detects a parking spot. The Autopark guide appears on the touchscreen along with the rear camera display, and, once activated, Autopark will begin to park itself by controlling steering and vehicle speed. The Model S features a forward radar, a forward-looking camera, 12 long-range ultrasonic sensors positioned to sense 16ft around the car in every direction at all speeds, and a high-precision digitally-controlled electric assist braking system. The lane-changing feature is illustrated Advertisement Brown narrowly avoided a very similar smash earlier this year, when his car did not notice a white truck turning in on him on the freeway. Pictured, the truck cutting him up in April Tesla said the Model S's autopilot system failed to detect the truck because its white color was similar to that of the bright sky. File picture of a Tesla Model S Tragic: Tesla said Brown (pictured) - a former Navy SEAL - failed to hit the brakes before the crash on May 7 He said of the incident: 'Once the roads merged, the truck tried to get to the exit ramp on the right and never saw my Tesla. I actually wasn't watching that direction and Tessy (the name of my car) was on duty with autopilot engaged. 'I became aware of the danger when Tessy alerted me with the "immediately take over" warning chime and the car swerving to the right to avoid the side collision. 'You can see where I took over when there's a little bit of blip in the steering. Tessy had already moved to the right to avoid the collision.' Tesla said its cars come with autopilot disabled and that owners have to acknowledge the system is new when they use it. 'The customer who died in this crash had a loving family and we are beyond saddened by their loss,' Tesla said. 'He was a friend to Tesla... a person who spent his life focused on innovation and the promise of technology and who believed strongly in Teslas mission. We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.' Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla Motors, tweeted: 'Our condolences for the tragic loss.' Mr Musk has been bullish about autopilot, despite Tesla's own warnings that the feature is not for all conditions and not sophisticated enough for the driver to stop concentrating on the road. He said the the system reduced the probability of having an accident by 50 per cent, without detailing his calculations. In January, he said autopilot is 'probably better than a person right now'. Shares in Tesla Motors Inc. fell $6.77, or 3.2 per cent, in after-hours trading after news of the crash was released. Self-driving cars are on the increase as the likes of Tesla and Google explore driverless technology. A major study released earlier this month said the looming arrival of self-driving vehicles is likely to vastly reduce traffic fatalities, but also poses difficult moral dilemmas. Showman to the last, Boris Johnson delayed his declaration to the last moments. A large crowd had gathered at the St Ermin's Hotel in Westminster, expecting him to say that he was still going to seek the Tory crown, even after being deserted at dawn by Michael Gove. Boris entered the large, white room cake-decoration cornices and air conditioning to enthusiastic cheers at 11.40am. He had opened his speech with some stuff about how this was 'not a time to quail nor should we see it as a moment for wobbling or self-doubt'. After that Churchillian oratory he drifted off into less gripping passages which reprised his achievements as London mayor. He said Britain needed to unite after the EU referendum and become a one-nation Tory country in which the low-paid had a better deal while FTSE-100 bosses contributed rather more. A large crowd had gathered at the St Ermin's Hotel in Westminster, expecting Boris Johnson to say that he was still going to seek the Tory crown Boris gathered his script and bowled off. Exit stage left. He had arrived at the hotel via a tradesman's entrance and departed the same way, pursued not by a Shakespearean bear but by TV news crews who rushed through the lobby of the St Ermin's to the bafflement of international business types having coffee meetings 'That is the agenda for the next prime minister of the country,' said Boris in his gruff, staccato way. Then, after a tiny pause and a wrinkle of V-sloping eyes: 'Well, I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punchline of this speech, that having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in Parliament, I have concluded that person cannot be me.' My wristwatch said 11.52am. Rolling-news reporters later claimed that at that moment there were 'audible gasps in the room'. I didn't hear any. I was struck by the way the assembled MPs, activists and reporters in fact barely reacted. There was a lacuna. An inaudible gulp. A silence in which second hands ticked. Was everyone dumbfounded? Or had it been inevitable once 'The Gover' walked out on him with such pointed remarks about Boris's lack of leadership potential. Boris gathered his script and bowled off. Exit stage left. He had arrived at the hotel via a tradesman's entrance and departed the same way, pursued not by a Shakespearean bear but by TV news crews who rushed through the lobby of the St Ermin's to the bafflement of international business types having coffee meetings. These British, they crazy. And so fell Boris the Brave, Boris the Bold, Boris the Brexiteer. Shambolic, heroic, flawed, magnificent. As with Hailsham, Heseltine, Clarke, a crowd-pleaser, a campaigner who electrified the public, had been seen off by the forces of greyness. Politics is supposedly a popularity contest but he had proved too successful at that. The way he seduced the voters and made them laugh had secured him the envy of parliamentary colleagues. How they resent panache. Word of the Gove-Boris spat broke just after 9am as we all gathered for Theresa May's campaign declaration at the Royal United Services Institute on Whitehall. This was the building used by David Cameron for his campaign launch in 2005 but whereas he had gone for fishtank music and fruit smoothies in the Rotunda, Mrs May opted for a staider affair. Her venue was the marble-pillared library, all tasteful taupes and walnut polish. Behind her, from floor to ceiling, were shelves of books about warfare and statecraft. Among them I noticed 'Between Peace & War' and 'Sea Killers in Disguise'. Of the MPs who turned out to support the Home Secretary, many were spongy consensualists pro-EU puddings such as Dominic Grieve, Damian Green, Sarah Wollaston. The current Immigration Minister, James Brokenshire, was there. Brokenshire! Should he not have been down at Dover Docks, checking lorries for Turkish stowaways? Two of Parliament's most assiduous sycophants were present: Havant's Alan Mak and 'Sir' Michael Ellis from Northampton North. Sir Alan Duncan (Rutland & Melton) was in the front row, jacket off, just to show he meant business. When these people heard that Gove was going solo, how they laughed. The happiness! The hatred of Boris! Coffee cups clinked and you could almost sense the System clutching its damp hanky and sensing that the nightmarish populist uprising might be about to ebb. We had been promised a mystery guest. Was it Falklands War hero Simon Weston? He was certainly there. But the big shot was Chris Grayling, one of the Leave campaign's top men. He proceeded to do the warm-up speech. The country needed 'a strong prime minister', he said, and he was backing Mrs May, whom he had first met 25 years ago in that hotbed of revolutionary zeal, the Wimbledon Conservative Association. Enter the candidate. The room leapt to a standing ovation all credit to Mr Mak, he was first to jump to his feet. She was dressed in a clan Campbell tartan trouser suit. Red nail varnish, hunched shoulders, a pale-pink Jermyn Street shirt and Thatcherish make-up. She stood on a high podium, thrust slightly into the auditorium. And so fell Boris the Brave, Boris the Bold, Boris the Brexiteer. Shambolic, heroic, flawed, magnificent. As with Hailsham, Heseltine, Clarke, a crowd-pleaser, a campaigner who electrified the public, had been seen off by the forces of greyness The early buzz words were delivered with a deepening of the voice: 'Clear Patriotic Strong Reassure.' She asserted that 'Brexit means Brexit' and there must be 'no attempts' to stay in the EU, to rejoin it or to seek a second referendum. To one side of the room stood a grandfather clock. In due course she would disclose that her own grandfather had been a regimental sergeant-major and her father had been a parson public service flowed in her veins. At this point in the morning, Boris was still thought to be a rival. She took several swipes at him, mocking the way he once bought some second-hand German water cannon (such was the level of his negotiating ability, she scoffed). And she deplored attempts by Leave campaigners to 'wriggle out' of immigration-control pledges. But could she, who had campaigned for the EU in the referendum, really lead the largely Eurosceptic Tories? Could she control immigration? She kept showing us how serious she was if politics ever goes wrong for her, she has a fine future playing Lady Bracknell on the Maidenhead amateur stage but she caved in on her earlier proposal to withdraw from the European Court of Human Rights. 'I am Theresa May and I think I'm the best person to be Prime Minister,' she declared, with a flash of the eyes to defy any doubters. The past few nights in our household and, I think, a good many others have been sleepless indeed. We have learned to accept the reality of the earthquake created by the referendum result. But we could not endure the prospect of Boris Johnson becoming Britain's prime minister. 'BoJo', that roly-poly bundle of fun, for six days seemed likely to secure the premiership on the back of his role as the Leavers' foremost cheerleader. My old friend Sir Nicholas Soames, a passionate European, so far lost his compass that he and others publicly endorsed Johnson as the 'unity' Tory leadership candidate. Boris seemed poised to skip into Downing Street in his cap and bells, dispensing a jolly jest for one and all, and for all we know a kiss for the chambermaid as well. In the eyes of many of us, a signal would have gone out to the world that Britain no longer wished to be regarded as a serious nation. Boris seemed poised to skip into Downing Street in his cap and bells, dispensing a jolly jest for one and all, and for all we know a kiss for the chambermaid as well, writes MAX HASTINGS Think of it. Here is Johnson, a man who is obliged to pay for extra weight at airports because of all the skeletons in his luggage, many of them those of women he has betrayed. He aspired to become prime minister with fantasies of morphing into Winston Churchill whose biography he has written and was fool enough back in May to compare the EU's ambitions with those of Adolf Hitler. It says much about his reputation that when yesterday he announced his retreat from the Conservative leadership contest, the news unleashed fevered speculation about whether this is merely because of his past follies, deceits and breaches of trust, or whether there is some new one in his bottom drawer that the British people have yet to discover. About now, you may ask: why does this amiable cove, who has enchanted so many audiences, and millions of viewers of Have I Got News For You, deserve such bilious words as these, when he has just seen the succession cruelly snatched from his hands, even as he straddles the political corpse of the Prime Minister whom he did more than anyone else to destroy? The answer on my part is not personal ill-will I wish him boundless success on stage and screen but revulsion against a new political world in which social media empowers celebrity freaks such as Johnson to break out of their rightful careers as variety stars and serial seducers, and aspire to political power such as they are wholly unfit to wield. Johnson is a great journalist and entertainer. As mayor of London, he was a brilliant front man for the 2012 Olympics. He became the most conspicuous hero of the Leave referendum campaign which, I submit, could not have prevailed without him. Many rank-and-file Tories have lately been baying for Boris to become prime minister because he seemed a winner, a star, a luvvie for all occasions who can bring fun back into people's lives and reach parts of the British electorate that no other contemporary politician can glimpse. Yet Johnson is one of those people who shines brilliantly when viewed from the remoteness of the stalls, yet shrinks and yellows the nearer one approaches to his greasepaint. Scarcely anybody who knows him well trusts him, including Michael Gove, his brother-in-arms on the referendum stump, who has dealt the coup de grace to his leadership candidacy. 'BoJo', that roly-poly bundle of fun, for six days seemed likely to secure the premiership on the back of his role as the Leavers' foremost cheerleader Johnson is what used to be called on racecourses a 'welsher', one who does not pay his debts in his case, political, moral and financial and I have painful personal experience of the last failing. I have known Johnson passably well since he worked for me as a journalist almost 30 years ago. Back in 1990, as Editor of the Daily Telegraph, I was sent a tape of a phone conversation between convicted fraudster Darius Guppy and his old Oxford Bullingdon Club friend Johnson, asking that Johnson, our then-correspondent in Brussels, should get the address of a journalist against whom Guppy had a grudge, so that he could give the man a hiding. Johnson did not demur. We called him back to the office from Brussels to explain himself, because the tape would obviously soon be public property. His defence was that, though he did not refuse Guppy's request, neither did he act upon it: the journalist was never attacked. But why did he not flatly refuse Guppy? 'Loyalty. Loyalty to an old friend,' said Johnson. After a wigging we sent him back to Brussels, and a dazzling success he made of his time there. Yet I could not then, and cannot now, imagine giving a friend who had turned into a crook reason to suppose even wrongly that I would help have somebody 'done over'. Here was an early example of a character flaw that remains fundamental: Johnson, yearning for love and approval even from the likes of Darius Guppy, always wants to tell an audience what it wishes to hear. That applies whether with one person or a thousand. And if the following week they want to be told something different, that, too, will be genially provided. Johnson treats every day like Groundhog Day the movie in which Bill Murray repeats everything that has happened to him previously, until he gets it right. Except that Boris is not interested in getting it right, but instead merely in altering yesterday's yarn until he finds a version that plays better with today's audience. It is not so much that we never know what he is going to say next: nor does he. He brilliantly simulates warmth, yet exposes a fundamental heartlessness by his indifference to others around him, especially women, and especially the wife whom he has humiliated so often. Back in 2013, the Court of Appeal judge who refused a gagging order on reporting of his illegitimate child said that the public had a right to know about his 'reckless' behaviour. In the eyes of many of us, a signal would have gone out to the world that Britain no longer wished to be regarded as a serious nation if Boris Johnson was to become PM When he first considered running for London mayor back in 2008, he took me to lunch and asked if I could offer any advice. Yes, I said: 'Lock up your willy.' It seemed to me that he could not credibly step on to a big political stage unless he was willing to abandon his career of manic sexual adventuring. What was at stake was not morality, which I have absolutely no claim to pontificate about, but rather the need to practise a self-discipline that is vital to any successful public career. In the event, of course, he could not bring himself to give up the women. His former lover Petronella Wyatt, who was rash enough to believe that he would marry her, had an abortion and miscarriage during their relationship. Boris Johnson may be many good and clever things, but he is emphatically not 'nice'. He once threatened a BBC chairman with exposure of his own personal life in the Spectator, which Johnson then edited, unless the BBC laid off its reporting of his affair with Wyatt. I have a memorably nasty letter in my own file from Boris, threatening me with revenge because I had said that a speech he made as a shadow education spokesman was insulting rubbish. In all this, there is more than a touch of Silvio Berlusconi, except that the lothario former Italian prime minister created a media empire, where Boris's substantive achievements can be summarised on a postage stamp. You ask: 'But wasn't he a brilliant mayor of London?' Rather, he was a brilliant maitre d', showing visitors to their tables in the greatest city on Earth. The record of his real doings, and carelessness about public money, have incurred harsh scrutiny. The bill for the fabled 'Boris bikes', which were supposed to be cost-neutral, runs into hundreds of millions. He never gripped the chronic, brutal problem of the unions' stranglehold on the Underground system, beyond bribing drivers who are already grossly overpaid to work nights. It says much about Johnson's reputation that when he announced his retreat from the Conservative leadership contest, the news unleashed fevered speculation about whether this is merely because of his past follies His indifference to truth seems comic to some people, but became repugnant in an aspiring prime minister. During the referendum campaign, he repeatedly promised cuts in immigration, but then wrote in Monday's Daily Telegraph: 'It is said that those who voted Leave were driven mainly by anxieties about immigration. I do not believe that is so.' A few hours later he turned another somersault, recanting that remark, under pressure from his backers in the Leave campaign. Yet last Friday's announcement of Leave's triumph seemed to terrorise him. In almost every published picture since, we could glimpse his fear. Johnson is not a man of courage. It suddenly dawned on him that, after a lifetime of evasions, half-truths and double-crosses, he was in line for the highest office in the land. He faced the prospect of assuming real responsibility for real decisions; for making choices that could not afterwards be denied. And, of course, his personal history would receive relentless review. All those women, conquered or merely propositioned, who did not seem to matter much while he was a mere journalist, suddenly became a matter of large and legitimate public interest when the man who had dallied with them aspired to rule Britain. I suppose that I have some personal interest in Johnson's withdrawal from the leadership contest, because it will spare me from having to fulfil my 2012 pledge in these pages that I would catch a plane to Buenos Aires if this essentially brutal buffoon became prime minister. Now, however, my gratitude is for this country. Thank God Boris Johnson has been found out before it is too late. He, who has shafted so many others, has been himself royally and deservedly shafted by Michael Gove. Whichever of the declared candidates becomes prime minister, none is likely to make Britain ridiculous, as Johnson would have done. It is said that, if he is not to be premier, he fancies himself spending a couple of years as defence secretary. Heaven forbid! It would be the height of recklessness to place this unguided missile within reach of the nuclear deterrent. If he is well-advised, he will retire to his rightful trade as a journalist and entertainer. Resigning Prime Minister David Cameron appears not to have a care in the world tonight, as his Tory colleagues tear each other apart in the battle to succeed him. On a day of extraordinary viciousness in the Conservative party, Mr Cameron headed out to dinner at a restaurant near to Victoria Station in London. The pair had dinner after attending a service on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme at Westminster Abbey. And the former leader and his wife Samantha would have enjoyed their Italian food free from the taste of bitterness that is no doubt filling the mouths of other high-ranking Tories tonight. Scroll down for video Relaxed: David Cameron and his wife Samantha headed out to dinner tonight at an Italian restaurant near to Victoria Station in London It comes at the close of one of the most vicious days of campaigning that the Conservatives have seen, as several high-ranking members launch their campaigns to take Number Ten It comes just a day after Mr Cameron attended his 10th and final Conservative summer party ball on Wednesday night. He is pictured flanked by Heather Kerzner (left) and Kim Johnson (right) It comes just a day after Mr Cameron was pictured flanked by Heather Kerzner and Kim Johnson at his 10th and final Conservative summer party ball on Wednesday night. Mr Cameron appeared more relaxed and calmer than he has for months in a selfie with the two women. Wife of billionaire hotelier and casino mogul Sol Kerzner, Heather is no stranger to the lavish party lifestyle. A member of the international jet-set, with regular holidays in some of the world's most extravagant and far-flung destinations, she would have been fine company to help Mr Cameron say farewell to Number Ten in style. Meanwhile Kim Johnson, glamorous bride-to-be of Elizabeth Hurley's ex-husband Arun Nayar, also joined the celebrations. Other guests at the bash were Theresa May, Michael Gove, Boris Johnson, Stephen Crabb and Jeremy Hunt - many of whom have now announced their bids for party leadership. Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha leave Il Posto restaurant in Victoria, London, after attending a service on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme at Westminster Abbey The former leader and his wife Samantha would have enjoyed their Italian food free from the taste of bitterness that is no doubt filling the mouths of other high-ranking Tories In an astonishing move earlier today, Mr Gove delivered a brutal verdict on Mr Johnson's capabilities and questioned whether his 'heart and soul' were in taking us out of the EU, effectively ending his hopes of succeeding David Cameron, as he announced his own bid for Downing Street. Damning his friend with faint praise, Mr Gove said he had 'enjoyed working with him' during the referendum campaign. But he said: 'I realised in the last few days that Boris isn't capable of building that team and providing that unity. Within hours Mr Johnson, who had been the hot favourite, was using an event that had been intended as his campaign launch to rule himself out. Mrs May also dramatically announced that she will abandoned the government's whole austerity plan if she ends up in Number 10. She said there would no longer be a target to eradicate the deficit by 2020. Despite campaigning for Remain, the Home Secretary promised to take Britain out of the EU and curb the free movement of migrants. Cameron (centre) with French president Francois Hollande, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Charles and Prince Harry at the Thiepval Memorial today Owners of more than 300,000 Hondas and Acuras are warned to stop driving their cars immediately because their airbags are at risk of exploding when deployed. Some 29 million Takata airbags have already been recalled worldwide due to the exploding-airbag defect, which has been linked to 10 deaths in the US and 13 worldwide, as well as scores of injuries. Honda has repaired more than 70 per cent of the vehicles in this group, but some 313,000 cars remain unrepaired, regulators at the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said Thursday. Scroll down for video Takata airbags in some 313,000 Hondas and Acuras are at risk of exploding when deployed Safety regulators say the Takata airbags are 50 times more likely to explode when deployed in an accident than other brands, CNN Money reported. The most defective airbags were found in the following Honda-made models: 2001-2002 Honda Civic, 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2002-2003 Acura TL, 2002 Honda CR-V, 2002 Honda Odyssey, 2003 Acura CL and 2003 Honda Pilot. The NHTSA said eight of 10 confirmed fatalities in the US due to Takata ruptures were from this group of vehicles. FIND OUT IF YOU ARE SAFE Models affected : 2001-2002 Honda Civic, 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2002-2003 Acura TL, 2002 Honda CR-V, 2002 Honda Odyssey, 2003 Acura CL and 2003 Honda Pilot. What to do: Head to SaferCar.gov or consult a local dealer to check if your car is on the recall list Advertisement 'The airbag inflators in this particular group of vehicles pose a grave danger to drivers and passengers that must be fixed right away,' said NHTSA administrator Mark Rosekind. 'Drivers should visit SaferCar.gov or contact their local dealer to check whether their vehicle is affected. 'If it is, they should have the vehicle repaired immediately for free at an authorized dealer.' Describing the hazard in these vehicles as 'grave,' the NHTSA said the risk was greatest in hot and humid regions like Florida, Texas and the Gulf Coast. The NHTSA warning comes ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, often a time when for road trips near the peak of the summer vacation season. Federal safety regulator Mark Rosekin of the NHTSA, right, says owners of the affected vehicles should have their cars immediately checked and repaired. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL), left, holds up a damaged airbag that was manufactured by Takata during a hearing before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee Takata Corp's chief executive has said he would resign so that the auto parts supplier could move ahead in dealing with its multi-billion dollar airbag recall. Takata, one of the world's largest suppliers of auto safety equipment, has been searching for a financial backer to help it overhaul the business and carry ballooning costs. The Japanese firm's airbag woes first emerged in 2008 but its troubles have grown over the past three years as fatalities linked to its airbags rose and recalls mounted to the point where some analysts have questioned its future. The most defective airbags were found in the following Honda-made models: 2001-2002 Honda Civic, 2001-2002 Honda Accord, 2002-2003 Acura TL, 2002 Honda CR-V, 2002 Honda Odyssey, 2003 Acura CL and 2003 Honda Pilot. CEO Shigehisa Takada a quiet, bookish presence in contrast to his gregarious, hands-on father who previously led the company is the first member of the founding family to take public responsibility. He apologized for the scandal last year, but has also defended the company's products. The creator of popular BBC childrens series Trumpton has died at the age of 95. Gordon Murray, who created the much-loved Trumptonshire puppet trilogy first screened in the 1960s, passed away yesterday. The trilogy Camberwick Green, Trumpton and Chigley were shown weekly on the BBC for 20 years and captivated generations of children with their innocent snapshots of Middle England. Gordon Murray (pictured) - known for his much-loved Trumptonshire puppet triology - died yesterday aged 95 Each series was named after a fictitious English village and followed characters such as aristocrat Lord Belborough and Windy Miller and his brigade of firemen. They were narrated by Brian Cant and ran for a total of 39 episodes between 1966 and 1969, airing before the midday news on BBC One. The BBC continued to broadcast them throughout the 1970s and 80s. Camberwick Green, which was made using stop-motion animation, was the first childrens show to be aired in colour on the BBC in 1966. Justin Johnson, childrens programmer at the British Film Institute, described Murray as a true hero of childrens TV. He said: The Trumptonshire Trilogy was a beautifully observed picture of everyday middle England. Ordinary, everyday people doing everyday tasks. Gordon Murray, who created the much-loved Trumptonshire puppet trilogy (pictured), passed away yesterday Murray set up a puppet company in the 1950s and was scouted by a BBC producer while touring theatres in the UK with the company It worked because the scripts were always well constructed with believable characters. Every week, Lord Belborough on his train, the Trumptonshire clock or the Fire Engine being called out. Murray was born in London in 1921 and attended Emanuel School in Battersea, South-West London. In 2011, Murray's series were digitally restored and re-released after the original footage was found in the familys attic and in the BBC archives After leaving school, he began working as a journalist and joined the Territorial Army before being enlisted in 1939 in the London Scottish Regiment. In 1944, he took part in the Normandy landings as a platoon commander having been commissioned into the Royal Corps of Signals and landed on Gold Beach. After the war, he worked as an actor in repertory theatre where he met his wife, ballet dancer Enid Martin. Murray set up a puppet company in the 1950s and was scouted by a BBC producer while touring theatres in the UK with the company. He first appeared on television as a puppeteer in 1954 on Bengo, a childrens programme about the adventures of a boxer puppy. Having turned down the chance to become the BBCs head of childrens programmes, Murray started his own production company which launched the Trumptonshire trilogy. The three series used eight-inch 3D models with heads made out of ping-pong balls and clothes out of foam latex. In 2011, the series were digitally restored and re-released after the original footage was found in the familys attic and in the BBC archives. The mother was heard screaming after her infant fell 65 feet, report said for food in north-west China when tragedy occurred Heart-breaking images show a golden snub-nosed monkey refusing to leave her dead baby's body after the one-year-old baby fell from the top of a tree and died. The young monkey had been gathering food in north-west China with its mother when it plummeted more than 20 metres (65 feet) on June 28, reports the People's Daily Online. The mother was heard screaming after she saw her baby lying on a rock after the fall, report said. Tragic: The mother sits with her dead infant after it fell from a tree and died in a mountainous area in China Heartbreaking: The mother clutches at her baby, refusing to let go after the infant's death on June 28 Refusing to let go: Reports say that the infant fell some 65 feet from a tree and was instantly killed Sad story: The monkeys had been foraging for food when the baby fell to the ground in north-west China The images were taken in the Qin Ling mountains in China's Shaanxi province on Tuesday. The heartrending images show how the monkey's mother tried to wake up her dead baby. She could also be seen carrying the infant around with her and climbing up trees, refusing to acknowledge that her child has died. According to reports, the monkeys were in the process of food gathering. The mother can be seen screaming while her baby lies on the rock. She then leaves the rock carrying her baby's body. Golden snub-nose monkey, also known as the golden hair money in China, is native to the central and western part of the country. The animal is listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Hard to let go: The mother drags around the infant while other babies look on in the Qin Ling mountains Distraught: According to reports, the mother let out loud screams after finding her dead infant According to the organisation, there has been a decline of over 50 percent in the animal's population in the last three generations, or approximately 40 years, due to forest loss. Guo Songtai, an Chinese professor specialised in the golden snub-nosed monkey told ifeng.com that it was not uncommon for a primate to carry its dead baby. It has been observed in the Qin Ling mountains for a golden snub-nosed monkey to carry her infant for as long as 35 days after its death, said Guo, who teaches at the College of Life Sciences in the Northwest University in Xi'an. The reason why the mother eventually gives up could be the fact that carrying around the dead body has interrupted her own life, such as eating, according to Guo. There are around 16,000 golden snub-nosed monkeys living in China's Gansu, Hubei, Shaanxi, and Sichuan provinces, said IUCN. In the Qin Ling mountains, there are around 4,400 of them and the Chinese officials have set up the Zhouzhi Nature Reserve to help protect the species. FACTS ABOUT THE GOLDEN MONKEY: TREASURED ANIMAL FROM CHINA Golden snub-nosed monkeys are scientifically known as Rhinopithecus roxellana The animals make their homes at altitudes higher than any other primate except humans They grow to a length of 51 to 83 centimetres (20-32 inches) with a tail of 55 to 97 centimetres (21-38 inches) They live and travel in communities made up of small family groups consisting of one male, several females and their children Golden snub-nosed monkeys spend most of their time in trees, eating only plants They have a wandering lifestyle covering a few kilometers in one day The animals give birth around once every two or three years Source: China.org.cn, Nature.org Advertisement An 86-year-old woman in China has spent five years building a grand palace using porcelain. The woman from Xinping village in Jiangxi province spent six million yuan (670,000) on building her dream home, reports the People's Daily Online. The porcelain enthusiast saw a similar hose a few years ago while on a business trip and knew she had to have her own porcelain palace, which she would be use as a museum. Amazing: Yu has spent five years building a grand museum to show off her collection of porcelain Amazing: The building has brought plenty of visitors to the village of Xinping in China's Jiangxi province Home for her things: The woman surnamed Yu needed somewhere to put her treasured collection of porcelain The woman surnamed Yu said that the palace is made of three portions, each measuring around 400 square feet. The first layer is blue and white ceramic, the second layer is famille-rose porcelain and the third is a mix of the two. Xinping village is part of the city of Jingdezhen which is often referred to as the capital of porcelain. Historical records show that porcelain making in Jingdezhen dates back to the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD). When Yu was just 12-years-old, she worked in a ceramic workshop, learning how to master the art of porcelain making. She then moved and worked at an art porcelain factory and learnt even more about the skill and porcelain business. After reforms in the country, she then moved to a ceramics plant operator for decades. As ceramics were her hobby, she collected over 60,000 pieces of porcelain. What a beautiful view: Stunning photos show the detail put into the porcelain museum Dream come true: According to Yu, the museum had been a dream of hers for some years before it was made Stunning colours: Inside the museum which contains 60,000 items of the woman's porcelain Because of her work, she was often sent on business trips. One day, she visited the city of Tianjin and saw a house made entirely from porcelain. She vowed that one day she would make a similar building. When she told friends and family of her plan, they said it was a bad idea. The woman invested six million yuan (670,000) and used over 60,000 pieces of porcelain to create the exquisite palace which was finally finished at the end of last year. She even drew up the plans herself. Yu had to sell some gold and silver jewellery in order to pay off the remaining cost of the building process. The finished product has brought a lot of tourists to her museum. Yu said: 'A lot of American and Japanese tourists have visited the porcelain palace and were delighted.' The woman hopes to build several others in the future. Yu became transfixed by the world of porcelain after taking up a job at a porcelain factory at the age of 12 Double trouble: Another museum is under construction after the woman realised she wanted another This Saturday, June 30, is the 211th birthday of Frederic Bastiat, one of the greatest political philosophers of the modern era. Considered among the founding fathers of classical liberalism, Bastiat is known for his simple and direct explanations of political and economic realities, his arguments against oppressive economic regulations and his clear and concise vision of a government of limited, enumerated powers, operating under the rule of law and unencumbered by favoritism or distributionist policies. Bastiat drew on his Catholic faith and the writings of Adam Smith and John Locke to articulate a vision of limited, efficient government that respects each citizens God-given dignity, strictly adheres to the rule of law, and allows for a largely un-regulated economy in which individuals are free to pursue their interests through peaceable exchange with each other. His best-known works, and those most central to his ideas, are The Law and The Seen and the Unseen, articulating his central political and economic ideas, respectively. The Law was first published as a pamphlet in 1850, shortly before Bastiats death. Despite its brevity, it thoroughly documents the errors and pitfalls of socialism and its establishment of legalized plunder, in which the law favors the immediate interest of one group of citizens at the expense of another. In a testament to his deeply imbued Catholic faith, Bastiat begins by explaining that the human faculties of liberty, individuality and property are the most basic gifts from God. They are prior to any human institution and cannot justly be taken away by men. Because each man has a natural right to use force against another only to defend his own person, property and liberty, it follows that a group of men may use common force to defend their common rights to the same. The law being an institution of human society inasmuch as if men did not live in society, there would be no need for human laws Bastiat defines law as the collective organization of the individual right to lawful defense (To avoid the accusation of circularity in this definition, one may substitute just for lawful). From this Bastiat goes on to explain that any government that takes one mans property and gives it to another, not as a punishment for a crime, but simply because the other man demands it, is committing plunder. A truly just system of government is one that does not favor any constituency over another, and does not attempt to mold men to behave in a certain way to satisfy the interests of those governing. Bastiat caustically accuses socialists of thinking of themselves as potters: omniscient, omnipotent, believing citizens to be mere clay in their hands: mindless, passive matter, ready to be shaped and formed by their government, and offering no resistance. Bastiat also realized that essential to political freedom was economic freedom. His pamphlet The Seen and the Unseen which also first appeared in 1850, brilliantly explains why economic policies, both domestically and in international trade, that are aimed at artificially altering market forces to protect the immediate, short-term interests of a certain industry are bound to cause more damage than good to a society. Bastiat uses parable of the broken window, to explain why despite the appearance of promoting economic growth, the reckless destruction of property, and in fact any economic transaction conducted purely for its own sake, actually causes a net loss to a societys economy. In just a few pages, Bastiat preemptively disproves all make-work schemes proposed by politicians in the last few centuries. He essentially predicted, eighty-some years before it happened, that President Roosevelts New Deal would not bring the U.S. out of the Great Depression. Sadly, many countries around the world, including ours, have chosen instead to learn Bastiats lesson the hard way (And the recent behavior of countries like Greece shows that some still havent learned it). Bastiat explains that the truly good economist is one who can look ahead to the future and see the negative consequences of an economic policy, which are usually not obvious and not immediate. Meanwhile, the bad economist only notices the intended consequences of a policy, because they are immediate and obvious, and seem beneficial. Nearly a hundred years later, Henry Hazlitt would reiterate this same principle in his now classic Economics in One Lesson (Sorry Hazlitt fans, but his seminal work is essentially a rehashing of Bastiat). Bastiats principles of limited, rule-of-law government and free, unfettered market economies respect God-given human dignity and promote human flourishing infinitely more than do centralized, socialist ones. His message is central to the Acton Institutes Core Principles, and on this anniversary of his birth, I recommend that all lovers of religion and liberty renew our dedication to the cause which he so eloquently defended. Further reading (both available in the Acton Bookshoppe): Providence and Liberty, a companion to Bastiats The Law. Economics in One Lesson by Henry Hazlitt. Technology allowing a pre-programmed robot to shoot to kill, or a tank to fire at a target with no human involvement, might only be years away. And a new report from the UN warns of the dangers if terrorists got their hands on these kind of 'killer robots'. The report, which was a result of a week-long meeting on such weapons, held in Geneva earlier this year, said swarms of autonomous weapons would be capable of carrying out attacks. As artificial intelligence advances, the possibility that machines could independently select and fire on targets is fast approaching. Fully autonomous weapons, also known as 'killer robots,' are quickly moving from the realm of science fiction (like the plot of Terminator, pictured) toward reality THE LAWS REPORT Experts from dozens of countries gathered in Geneva earlier this year to consider the implications of 'Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems' (LAWS). These are weapons that would be capable of killing without a human at the controls. The UN report also said, 'swarms of such systems with complementary capabilities may carry out attacks.' 'In these scenarios where swarms of LAWS act as force multipliers, it would be unclear how meaningful human control could be maintained over the use of force, especially as the available time frame for human intervention is likely to be restricted.' Advertisement Experts from dozens of countries gathered in Geneva earlier this year to consider the implications of 'Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems' (LAWS). These are weapons that would be capable of killing without a human at the controls. The goal of the meeting was to begin the process of setting strict guidelines governing the use of killer robot. This is to make sure they will not end up being used as indiscriminate weapons of war. But the report said terrorists might not abide by these guidelines. 'Whilst these [robotic killing] systems might be available to technologically advanced countries in an initial phase, it is likely that they will proliferate,' the report said. Experts from dozens of countries gathered in Geneva earlier this year to consider the implications of 'Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems' (LAWS). Michael Mller, Acting Director-General UN Office pictured at Geneva They also added that 'there may be no incentive for such actors to abide by international norms and this may further increase global or regional instability.' The UN report also said, 'swarms of such systems with complementary capabilities may carry out attacks.' 'In these scenarios where swarms of LAWS act as force multipliers, it would be unclear how meaningful human control could be maintained over the use of force, especially as the available time frame for human intervention is likely to be restricted.' A previous report called for humans to remain in control over all weapons systems at a time of rapid technological advances. It said requiring humans to remain in control of critical functions during combat, including the selection of targets, saves lives and ensures that fighters comply with international law. 'Machines have long served as instruments of war, but historically humans have directed how they are used,' said Bonnie Docherty, senior arms division researcher at Human Rights Watch, in a statement. 'Now there is a real threat that humans would relinquish their control and delegate life-and-death decisions to machines.' Some have argued in favor of robots on the battlefield, saying their use could save lives. Last year, more than 1,000 technology and robotics experts, including scientist Stephen Hawking, Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, warned that such weapons could be developed within years, not decades. Some have argued in favor of robots on the battlefield, saying their use could save lives. STEPHEN HAWKING WARNS OF A ROBOTIC UPRISING A sinister threat is brewing deep inside the technology laboratories of Silicon Valley, according to Professor Stephen Hawking. Artificial Intelligence, disguised as helpful digital assistants and self-driving vehicles, is gaining a foothold, and it could one day spell the end for mankind. The world-renowned professor has warned robots could evolve faster than humans and their goals will be unpredictable. On the Larry King Now show, Professor Hawking spoke of his fears about the future of the human race. 'I don't think advances in artificial intelligence will necessarily be benign,' Professor Hawking said. The physicists has previously been outspoken on his believes. Professor Hawking was interviewed from the Canary Islands, where he was being honored at the 'Starmus' Festival, aimed at making science accessible to the public. 'Once machines reach a critical stage of being able to evolve themselves we cannot predict whether their goals will be the same as ours.' 'Artificial intelligence has the potential to evolve faster than the human race.' Advertisement In an open letter, they argued that if any major military power pushes ahead with development of autonomous weapons, 'a global arms race is virtually inevitable, and the endpoint of this technological trajectory is obvious: autonomous weapons will become the Kalashnikovs of tomorrow.' Professor Stephen Hawking reiterated his concerns just last week, speaking on the Larry King Now show. 'I don't think advances in artificial intelligence will necessarily be benign,' Professor Hawking said. The physicists has previously been outspoken on his believes. 'Once machines reach a critical stage of being able to evolve themselves we cannot predict whether their goals will be the same as ours,' he added. 'Artificial intelligence has the potential to evolve faster than the human race.' According to the London-based organization Campaign to Stop Killer Robots, the United States, China, Israel, South Korea, Russia, and Britain are moving toward systems that would give machines greater combat autonomy. Human Rights Watch is a co-founder of the organization. The UN meeting of experts on the issue, chaired by Germany, continued talks that took place in April 2015 and May 2014. But Google chairman Eric Schmidt wrote in an opinion piece this week that everyone should 'stop freaking out' about artificial intelligence. 'The history of technology shows that there's often initial skepticism and fear-mongering before it ultimately improves human life,' Mr Schmidt said. Mr Schmidt and Mr Thrus said while 'doomsday scenarios' deserve 'thoughtful consideration,' the best course of action is to get to work on creating solutions. Advertisement On Earth they produce mesmerising riots of colour that light up the night sky around the poles. But our planet is not the only world to enjoy stunning aurora better known as the northern and southern lights. Now scientists are hoping to unravel the secrets of the biggest such polar light show in our solar system by focusing their attention on Jupiter's aurora. Scroll down for video Scientists are using the Hubble Space Telescope to watch Jupiter's aurora (pictured) for more than a month in the hope of trying to unravel what causes these enormous light shows. The ultraviolet and X-ray aurora on Jupiter occur continuously on the giant planet and are the size of the entire planet Earth JUPITER'S GIANT AURORA Jupiter's auroras were first discovered by the Voyager 1 spacecraft in 1979. A thin ring of light on Jupiter's nightside looked like a stretched-out version of our own auroras on Earth. But later, astronomers discovered that the auroras were best visible in the ultraviolet. Scientists also discovered the planet has X-ray aurora too. Jupiter's aurora are larger than our entire planet and unlike those on Earth, occur almost continuously. This suggests that the mechanism causing this light show is different from that on Earth. While Earth's Northern and Southern lights are triggered by energetic particles from the sun slamming into gas atoms high in the atmosphere, Jupiter appears to have another source. Scientists believe its powerful magnetic field accellerates charged particles from the space around it towards its poles, to cause similar interactions. The volcanic moon Io spews oxygen and sulfur ions into Jupiter's spinning magnetic field, which sends them hurtling towards the planet below. Upon entering the atmosphere, their electrons are first stripped away by molecules they run into, but as they slow down they start grabbing electrons back. The 'charge exchange reaction' produces intense X-ray auroras. Yet scientists have been baffled as to how Jupiter's magnetic field accelerates these particles. Advertisement They are using the Hubble Space Telescope to study the giant planet's atmospheric light shows, which cover an area larger than the entire Earth. New images captured by the telescope reveal the flickers and flashes produced as high energy particles in the solar wind collide with gases over Jupiter's poles. This produces vivid ultraviolet displays that cap the giant planet. Astronomers are combining the observations with data being collected by Nasa's Juno spacecraft as it races towards Jupiter. The probe is currently surfing through the solar wind as it prepares to enter orbit around Jupiter on July 4. It is designed to help scientists unpick how Jupiter's giant magnetic field interacts with the supersonic solar wind. They also hope to discover what may be causing the magnetic field, as many believe the huge ball of gas may have a solid core. Dr Jonathan Nichols, a space scientist at the University of Leicester who is taking part in the Jupiter aurora project, said: 'These auroras are very dramatic and among the most active I have ever seen. 'It almost seems as if Jupiter is throwing a firework party for the imminent arrival of Juno.' Hubble is spending a month observing Jupiter daily to help scientists understand how the aurora form on the largest planet in the solar system. By comparing the aurora to data from Juno about the solar wind, it will help scientists unravel the influence the sun has on the polar light show. The aurora on Jupiter are hundreds of times more energetic than those seen on Earth and occur ceaselessly. On Earth aurora are often fleeting and have become a prized tourist attraction in countries around the North Pole. While on Earth aurora are caused by solar storms when highly energetic particles ejected by the sun collide with atoms in our atmosphere to release light Jupiter's aurora are also caused by other sources. The strong magnetic field of the gas giant, which extends up to two million miles from the planet, captures charged particles from its surrounding environment, accelerating them towards the poles. Debris thrown into space by the volcanoes on one of Jupiter's moons, Io, is also responsible for causing these aurora. Juno itself will attempt to look inside Jupiter with a pair of magnometres to map the giant planet's magnetic field. When combined with the observations by Hubble it promises to help scientists unravel the cause of Jupiter's aurora. Jack Connerney, deputy principal investigator and head o the magnetometer team at Nasa's Goddard Space Flight Centre in Maryland, said: 'The best way to think of a magnetometer is like a compass. The huge aurora on Jupiter (pictured) are thought to be caused by solar particles and volcanic debris in the space around the giant planet being accelerated towards the poles by its powerful magnetic field On Earth the aurora - known as the Northern and Southern Lights - produce colourful but fleeting displays in the night's sky around the poles. These are caused by energetic particles form the solar wind colliding with the gases in the atmopshere (Aurora Borealis as seen in Iceland pictured) The images captured by Hubble of the aurora on Jupiter (pictured) will be combined with data obtained by the Juno spacecraft when it reaches Jupiter on July 4 Jupiter's powerful magnetosphere extends up to two million miles into the space around the planet (illustrated) and is thought to be responsible for sending charged particles in the space around it hurtling at high speeds towards the poles 'Compasses record the direction of a magnetic field. But magnetometers expand on that capability and record both the direction and magnitude of the magnetic field. 'This is our first opportunity to do very precise, high-accuracy mapping of the magnetic field of another planet. 'We are going to be able to explore the entire three-dimensional space around Jupiter, wrapping Jupiter in a dense net of magnetic field observations completely covering the sphere.' Nasa's Juno spacecraft is currently racing towards Jupiter in a bid to study the planet's huge magnetic field. The picture of Jupiter above was captured by Juno from 6.8 million miles away on 21 June this year The hole in the ozone layer over the Antarctic has finally begun to heal after persisting for years. A new study has recorded an ozone increase in the icy region, suggesting the agreement signed nearly three decades ago to limit the use of substances responsible for ozone depletion, is having a positive effect. As well as creating an identifying ozone increase, its slowing the rate of ozone depletion in the stratosphere - Earth's second major atmospheric layer. The hole in the ozone layer over the Antarctic has finally begun to heal after persisting for years. A new study has recorded an ozone increase in the icy region, suggesting the agreement signed nearly three decades ago to limit the use of substances responsible for ozone depletion, is having a positive effect WHAT IS THE OZONE LAYER? Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen molecules which can be hazardous to our health on the ground, but in the upper atmosphere it protects us by soaking up ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without it, the planet's surface would be exposed to dangerous levels of UV-B rays which can shred DNA, leading to mutations that cause cancers. Advertisement Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen molecules which can be hazardous to our health on the ground, but in the upper atmosphere it protects us by soaking up ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without it, the planet's surface would be exposed to dangerous levels of UV-B rays which can shred DNA, leading to mutations that cause cancers. Towards the end of the 20th Century, the ozone was found to have been depleted by the now banned chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which react with the ozone as they break down. Ozone is a gas composed of three oxygen molecules which can be hazardous to our health on the ground, but in the upper atmosphere it protects us by soaking up ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without it, the planet's surface would be exposed to dangerous levels of UV-B rays which can shred DNA, leading to mutations BUT THERES A GROWING HOLE OVER THE ARCTIC Extended cold periods, like the Arctic winter, result in the prefect conditions for ozone destruction. The layer has been depleted by the use of the now banned CFCs which react with ozone as they break down. But clouds of nitric acid, from natural sources, have condensed in the upper atmosphere this year. These clouds can react to cause chlorine in the atmosphere to react in the sunlight and destroy ozone further. If the cold air system above the article - the polar vortex - persists into the spring and summer, this could create a perfect storm for ozone destruction. Dr Markus Rex, an atmospheric chemist at the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI) in Germany explained that by the end of February as much as a quarter of the Arctic's ozone will be destroyed. The hole over the Canadian Arctic was thought to be around 770,000 square miles (two million square kilometres) or around the size of Greenland in January. Advertisement The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, came into effect in 1989 and was an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out CFCs. Understanding the degree to which the ozone is healing in response to this agreement and related efforts is of enormous interest to scientists and policy makers alike. While previous research has shown some early signs of stratospheric ozone recovery in Antarctica since the agreement's signing, the signs have largely been of a reduced rate of ozone decline and levelling off of ozone depletion. Less has been documented about ozone increase in the polar regions and in October 2015 the Antarctic ozone hole reached a record size, providing a conflicting result. Susan Solomon, a Professor of Atmospheric Chemistry and Climate Science at MIT and her colleagues examined polar ozone trends since 2000, using a combination of direct ozone measurements and model calculations. They identified several consistent signals of healing in the Antarctic ozone layer, particularly in the month of September, when they found regular, seasonal increases in ozone column amounts. The researchers also evaluated changes in ozone health caused by natural factors including volcanic eruptions. They say that since about 2005, eruptions have delayed healing and made a large contribution to the inter-annual variability in ozone loss in recent years. The ice cap on Antarctica (pictured) has remained largely unaffected by modern climate change and in many areas it has increased in mass. However, some areas, such as the Antarctic Peninsula, have seen increased loss of ice in recent decades The details of 2.2 million suspected terrorists have been leaked. Taken from the World-Check database, which is maintained by Thomson Reuters, the entries were leaked to an online security expert. Chris Vickery, who obtained the information, asked users on Reddit whether he should make the details available or not. The details of 2.2 million suspected terrorists have been leaked. Taken from the World-Check database, maintained by Thomson Reuters, the entries were leaked to an online security expert, who has not yet made the information available online WHAT IS WORLD-CHECK? Thomson Reuters bought World-Check in 2011, after it had been set up in London in 2000. According to Vice.com, the database is used by over 300 government and intelligence agencies, 49 of the 50 biggest banks, and 9 of the top 10 global law firms. The current version of the database contains, among other categories, a blacklist of 93,000 individuals suspected of having ties to terrorism. Advertisement Thomson Reuters bought World-Check in 2011, after it had been set up in London in 2000. According to Vice.com, the database is used by over 300 government and intelligence agencies, 49 of the 50 biggest banks, and 9 of the top 10 global law firms. The current version of the database contains, among other categories, a blacklist of 93,000 individuals suspected of having ties to terrorism. 'No hacking was involved in my acquisition of this data,' Mr Vickery said on Reddit. 'I would call it more of a leak than anything, although not directly from Thomson Reuters. 'No hacking was involved in my acquisition of this data,' Mr Vickery said on Reddit . 'I would call it more of a leak than anything, although not directly from Thomson Reuters' WILL THE DATE BE RELEASED? Mr Vickery listed his reasons for and against releasing the data. He said the reasons for were that 'innocent people that have been put on this list deserve to know that they are on it, the data is apparently all aggregated from public sources and the database is already accessible to anyone that is willing to pay Thomson Reuters for it.' But there were more reasons listed against. 'Releasing it may tip off some actual bad guys that really should be on such a list,' he said. 'Thomson Reuters' legal team will likely have some words for me. After all, they do invest considerable time and effort in categorizing and analyzing the data even if it is from public sources. There's probably a copyright argument to be made. 'I have nothing against Thomson Reuters and I'm generally a pretty friendly guy. 'Some harm will likely be done to individuals that shouldn't be on the list, but are on the list by mistake. Suddenly the mistaken listing would be much more widespread than even Thomson Reuters' subscribers.' Advertisement Thomson Reuters (HQ pictured) bought World-Check in 2011, after it had been set up in London in 2000 'The exact details behind that can be shared at a later time.' 'This copy has over 2.2 million heightened-risk individuals and organizations in it. The terrorism category is only a small part of the database,' he said. 'Other categories consist of individuals suspected of being related to money laundering, organized crime, bribery, corruption, and other unsavory activities.' Mr Vickery listed his reasons for and against releasing the data. He said the reasons for were that 'innocent people that have been put on this list deserve to know that they are on it, the data is apparently all aggregated from public sources and the database is already accessible to anyone that is willing to pay Thomson Reuters for it.' But there were more reasons listed against. 'Releasing it may tip off some actual bad guys that really should be on such a list,' he said. 'Thomson Reuters' legal team will likely have some words for me. After all, they do invest considerable time and effort in categorizing and analyzing the data even if it is from public sources. There's probably a copyright argument to be made. 'I have nothing against Thomson Reuters and I'm generally a pretty friendly guy. 'Some harm will likely be done to individuals that shouldn't be on the list, but are on the list by mistake. Suddenly the mistaken listing would be much more widespread than even Thomson Reuters' subscribers.' In a statement, a Thomson Reuters spokesperson said: 'Thomson Reuters was yesterday alerted to the fact that out of date information from the World-Check database had been exposed by a third party. 'We are grateful to Chris Vickery for bringing this to our attention, and have acted with the upmost urgency to contact the third party concerned with whom we are now in contact in order to secure the information.' A spokeswoman for the UK's Information Commissioner Officer told the BBC the Data Protection Act required personal information to be kept secure even if it had been collated from public sources. 'Organisations must take appropriate measures against unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and against accidental loss, destruction or damage,' she said. 'We'll be making enquiries.' This means they could see different partners or improve their appearance Robots are already putting a variety of jobs under threat from security guards to office managers, but soon they could be venturing into the sex industry too. Women and men could begin swapping human partners for androids within the next 10 years, according to predictions by a futurologist. Dr Ian Pearson, an inventor who has made a career out of predicting the future for PR firms, has produced a report on the future of sex. Sex with robots could soon replace human intimate relationships according to a recent report. It claims that intercourse with robots could overtake human intercourse by 2050. Already it is possible to buy basic sex robots like the True Companion Roxxxy (pictured) but technology will make make such bots more realisitic He believes that sex with robots will become so popular that it will eventually overtake human intercourse by around 2050. WOULD YOU MARRY A ROBOT? While there are fears robots may rise up to take over the world if artificial intelligence progresses too quickly, some of us may find ourselves simply marrying machines in the future. A leading computer scientist has predicted that as robots become more human-like, people may start turning to them for companionship. His predictions mirror the plot of the hit TV series Humans, where people formed emotional attachments to robots brought in to help out around the home. Unlike other technology, such as mobile phones and computers, robots will have the ability to interact with us in a far more realistic way. Dr Kevin Curran, a senior member of the Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers and a computer scientist at the University of Ulster, argues cloud computing has the potential to transform artificial intelligence so robots can become far more lifelike. Speaking to MailOnline, he said: 'It seems that when these machines do act in ways just like adults, where they can interact and talk in real-time, robots will become the perfect companion. 'We have got to ask ourselves will robots be re-purposed for companionship? Will humans become intimate with robots? The answer, I believe, is yes. 'Will we start to see people fighting court cases to win the right to marry their companion? We may see court cases arguing that these artificial beings have the same rights as humans.' Advertisement He believes that while the market for sex dolls is currently driven by male customers, sex robots could become as popular with women. In the report, commissioned by Bondara, an adult online store, he said most people will have some form of sex using virtual reality headsets by 2030. It comes at a time when many sex toy companies are developing new devices that integrate with smartphones and link to the internet. Dr Pearson believes that in the future many toys will link directly to our nervous systems or even tap into our dreams. Speaking to MailOnline, he said: 'While there will be some people who will buy robots specifically for sex, most will buy them for use around the home. 'But if they are spending as much on a domestic robot as they would on a family -sized car, they are not going to go for something ugly. They are going to pick robots they find attractive. 'With artificial intelligence it is likely people will form relationships with these household robots and it is inevitable then that they will have sex with them too.' In a recent presentation he made at the Eindhoven Design Academy, he said people may also be able to 'hack' their own appearance with technology. For example polymer displays could be used to enhance nipples while hair extensions could incorporate ultrafine optical fibres. Writing in his report for Bondara, Dr Pearson said: 'As well as toys and apps, we'll also get direct nervous systems links, dream linking and even body sharing. 'You'll be able to link your dream sex to other people, feel their sensations as well as your own, and directly stimulate orgasms by the touch of an icon, or even send someone an orgasm over messages. 'Sex will be easier, safer, more frequent and a lot more fun.' The report also suggests people will have 'real sex' wearing VR contact lenses and could be seeing a totally different person such as a celebrity, or alter their partner's face or 'costume' to make them more attractive. Along with the use of virtual reality, it claims humans will one day use technology to directly stimulate the septal area of the brain to create an orgasm at the touch of a button, share experiences, inhabit other people's bodies, even lock a partner in place or control them electronically. The report says sexbots could be used in strip clubs and be 'perfect for those people who want to live their ultimate fantasy without all the strings and emotional commitments of real relationships'. However, others think sexbots (one pictured) could seriously damage human relationships and are 'unneccesary' The report looks at how sex will evolve and predicts love and sex will become increasingly separate in the future, as robots take on human roles such as in sci-fi scenarios seen in 'Humans' and Spike Jonze's film, Her (a still from Her is pictured showing Joaquin Phoenix's character falling in love with an operating system As imaged in the sci-fi drama 'Humans', the report predicts robots will replace human workers in strip clubs and brothels, while wealthy households could have their own 'sexbots' in just 10 years' time. PREDICTIONS FOR SEX EVOLUTION The report claims: By 2030, most people will have some form of virtual sex as casually as they browse porn today. By 2035 the majority of people will own sex toys that interact with virtual reality sex. 'Sexbots' will start to appear in high-income, very wealthy households as soon as 2025. Sex with robots will be more popular than human-human sex in 2050 Love and the act of sex is set to become increasingly separate, with relationships increasingly becoming based on more than just sex. Advertisement The report suggests such robots would have AI 'to offer a customisable personality with only the emotional baggage you want' and would be 'perfect for those people who want to live their ultimate fantasy without all the strings and emotional commitments of real relationships. The report says: 'For humans, VR can enhance appearance and the appearance of ability. 'Your partner could have the perfect physique and entertain you with the sexiest moves, or they could just be their regular selves.' Currently rudimentary robot sex dolls are available. One variety called True Companion which comes as Roxxxy for the female variety and Rocky for the male - sell for $9995 (6,900). The dolls can be customised and the company offers a variety of skin tones, faces and hair colours. But while its articulated skeleton means the dolls can be positioned by hand, they cannot move their limbs independently. NO SEX FOR PEPPER! ROBOT'S JAPANESE MAKERS OUTLAW PHYSICAL RELATIONSHIPS Within a minute of going on sale two months ago, the first 1,000 Pepper robots sold out in Japan. The robot that can read human emotions, comes with a set of comprehensive instructions and guidelines, preparing owners for life with him - and warning them not to have sex with the machine. Dig deeply enough, and there are some rules related to ethics and proper conduct, and one in particular has been gaining headlines in Japan - there will be no sex for Pepper. The loosely translated rule states using Pepper for 'acts for the purpose of sexual or indecent behavior, or for the purpose of associating with unacquainted persons of the opposite sex' is prohibited, and would break the ownership contract, according to Rocket News. Japanese journalist Yuri Kageyama spent half a day with the robot ahead of its delivery to its first customers later this month. He said that the most striking feature is the 'absolutely ardent attention it gives you.' It told Mr Kageyama he looked a bit thin and should watch what he eats, before it asked him about his day According to initial reviews, the four-foot (1.2 metre) machine-on-wheels is charming, considerate, offers advice and will 'prattle on and on' making small talk. Japanese journalist Yuri Kageyama spent half a day with the robot ahead of its delivery to its first customers last month. He said that the most striking feature is the 'absolutely ardent attention [Pepper] gives you.' From telling Mr Kageyama he looked a bit thin and should watch what he eats to reciting a series of quiz questions, the 198,000 yen (1,107 or $1,600) Pepper was also inquisitive and asked him about his day. 'I'm Japanese and so I'm a sucker for cute things, like manga, quirky figurines and mascot characters,' explained Mr Kageyama. 'And Pepper delivers cuteness like you've never seen.' 'This is not some slapped together toy of a robot.' Advertisement Dr Pearson said: 'Sex and the pleasure it provides has been fundamental to the human race for three billion years, and it isn't going away any time soon. 'VR and AI will together transform opportunities and exploration of desires. Social values will adapt to these new possibilities and loving relationships will remain important in spite of these shifts in values. The potential complexities of humans having relationships with robots was explored in the recent TV drama Humans (pictured) 'If we can keep love and our emotional human relationships but have more, better and safer sex, what's not to like?' HOW WOULD ROBOTS HAVE SEX? Opinions differ as to how robots could breed and reproduce in the future. George Zarkadakis, an engineer and novelist, believes robots that are both silicon and carbon based, could have sex at a molecular level to produce offspring - although how this could happen is unclear. Professor Noel Sharkey said that there might not be any need to look at molecules as robots can be 'bred' by swapping software so that the code used to make robots perform certain tasks particularly well, can be combined to create a 'child'. He believes that robots of the future will be able to print their offspring, a little like a 3D printer, but could assemble them too. Mr Zarkadakis said if robots could have sex, it would defend them from computer viruses and make them more robust. Advertisement However, some experts believe sexbots could seriously damage human relationships and Kathleen Richardson, robot ethicist at DeMontfort University, Leicester, said technology is 'unnecessary and undesirable'. But Noel Sharkey, professor of artificial intelligence and robotics at Sheffield University, has also warned that teenagers may lose their virginity to sex robots in the future. Speaking at the Cheltenham Science Festival Professor Noel Sharkey, Emeritus Professor in Robotics at Sheffield University warned that robot nannies, driverless cars and android sex dolls may have damaging consequences for society. He said that just as the rise of porn on the internet took the government by surprise, a robot revolution is on the way with wide-reaching effects. Professor Sharkey, who was speaking at the Cheltenham Science Festival, explained: 'It's not a problem having sex with a machine, people do that sort of thing already. But what if it's your first time, your first relationship? 'What do you think of the opposite sex then? What do you think a man is, or a woman is? He added: 'It will get in the way of real life, stopping people forming relationships with normal people.' But, the researchers say there may be a limit Army ants band together to create living nests around their young, using collective body heat to increase temperatures at the core. A new study in Costa Rica found that this tactic helps them to survive at high altitudes, creating an environment up to 13 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than surface temperatures. Keeping the nest warm is critical to the development of their offspring in the stages just before they become adults, and researchers say ants likely expend a lot of energy to maintain the heat. Army ants band together to create living nests around their young, using collective body heat to raise temperatures inside. A new study in Costa Rica found that this tactic helps them to survive at high altitudes, creating an environment up to 13 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than surface temperatures WHAT THEY FOUND The researchers found that the bivouacs consistently stayed warm enough to sustain the young, despite colder temperatures in the soil and surface. Underground, the temperatures were only about 1 degree F warmer than above but, the bivouacs achieved a mean temperature of 13 degrees F above the surface. But, the research suggests that there is a ceiling to the ants warming capabilities. Even at their coolest points, temperatures in the lower bivouac, at 950 meters, were consistently warmer than the highest temperatures of the nest at 1,565 meters. Advertisement In the new study published recently in the journal Insects Sociaux, Drexel University researchers tracked three different nests known as bivouacs at different elevations. The lowest community observed was at 950 meters above sea level, and the highest was at 1,565m. Nomadic army ants Labidus Praedator follow carefully planned lifecycles, moving when their young are freshly hatched larvae. Once these turn to pupae, just before they become adults, the colony stays in one bivouac for weeks. Researchers say the temperature of this structure may be a critical component in the survival of the young, and the ants ability to stay mobile. As is the case for most insects, army ant brood temperature is a key determiner of the time required for each hatched egg to reach adulthood, said Kaitlin Baudier, a graduate student in Drexels College of Arts and Sciences, who teamed with Drexel professor Sean ODonnel. Its especially crucial for these bivouacs to remain warm at higher elevations, as they must stay within an ideal temperature range. At high elevations, bivouac heating may be even more important than at low elevations because ambient air temperatures are further below optimum growth temperatures, Baudier explained. The researchers measured surface and soil temperatures, and found that the bivouacs consistently stayed warm enough to sustain the young, despite colder temperatures in the soil and surface. Underground, the temperatures were only about 1 degree F warmer than above but, the bivouacs achieved a mean temperature of 13 degrees F above the surface. Once offspring turn to pupae, just before they become adults, the colony stays in one bivouac for weeks. Researchers say the temperature of this structure may be a critical component in the survival of the young, and the ants ability to stay mobile Researchers say this indicates the heat is generated from their bodies. This study lifts the roof on what we thought army ants were capable of in terms of warming their young in the face of the more extreme cold and wet conditions at high elevations, Baudier said. But, the research also suggests that there is a ceiling to the ants warming capabilities. Even at their coolest points, temperatures in the lower bivouac, at 950 meters, were consistently warmer than the highest temperatures of the nest at 1,565 meters. The record high elevation for an army ant in Costa Rica was a specimen of a Labidus coecus a close relative, though more subterranean than L. praedator that was found at 3,000 meters above sea level. However, in the case of L. praedator, the highest Im aware of is about 1,750 meters above sea level, Baudier said. I do suspect that cold temperatures are a major factor in setting these upper elevational ranges. The highest bivouacs seem to struggle to keep warm in wet, cold soil. Advertisement These amazing pictures of abandoned shipwrecks at the bottom of the sea will take your breath away. An adventurous group of divers swam more than 98ft down into the depths of the Mediterranean sea to explore the crumbling wrecks. The stunning snaps were taken by underwater photographer Wojciech Podhorski, from Chorzow, Poland, during a holiday to Malta's Gozo Island with his friends. Wojciech, 48, said: 'I'd heard from friends that there were very interesting shipwrecks around Gozo. Diving in a shipwreck can be dangerous - you have to be aware of your surroundings, because there may be a lot of sharp edged from mangled metal pieces and of course underwater creatures. 'Avoiding them can be difficult because of strong, unpredictable ocean currents, which can push divers into dangerous situations. The shipwrecks were quite large, so we had a few cylinders with different mixes of gases to maximise our time underwater. 'It was an amazing experience - it wasn't my first dive, but it was incredible and unique.' Stunning snaps, including this one of Rozi shipwreck, were taken by underwater photographer Wojciech Podhorski, from Chorzow, Poland The scuba diver took the images while on holiday with his friends. Here is one from his collection of the shipwreck Um El Faroud An adventurous group of divers swam more than 98ft down into the depths of the sea to explore the crumbling wrecks. Pictured is a scuba diver swimming in wreck P29, a former Maltese patrol boat that is now a shipwreck off the coast of Gozo A diver swims in the crystal clear waters surrounding the impressive shipwreck Um El Faroud which attracts explorers from around the world Colourful marine life has taken over the the wreck P29, as talented photographer Podhorski discovered during his exploration The vast Um El Faroud now lies on the bottom of the sea following being decommissioned after a gas explosion during maintenance work in 1995 This haunting image shows P29, which was originally used for detecting and removing or destroying explosive mines After the Rozi shipwreck was decommissioned, she was placed off the harbour of Cirkewwa at the northernmost part of Malta as an artificial reef In 1992, Rozi was originally used for Underwater Safari Tours operated by Captain Morgan Cruises. These tours no longer run but divers still flock to see inside of the wreck for themselves Um El Faroud is also used as an artificial reef and diving attraction and is now home to a wealth of different fish species and plant life Um El Faroud weighs 10,000 tons and is 377 ft long, providing many areas for intrepid divers to explore during their underwater trips Spectacular surroundings: The eerie but beautiful silhouette of Rozi is visible 118ft deep near the island of Gozo Several divers take a closer look around different sections of Um El Faroud, which is now home to species such as tuna, jacks and barracudas A bird's eye view of P29. Podhorski said that diving in a shipwreck can be dangerous as you have to be aware of your surroundings, because there may be a lot of sharp edged from mangled metal pieces Travelling the world is supposed to open up the mind but sometimes tourists get far more than they bargained for when a holiday goes wrong. While for many a vacation nightmare might involve getting food poisoning or missing a flight, for others their adventure can escalate into something much more serious. A wrong turn down a dark alley can result in a robbery at gunpoint or even a full-blown kidnapping. One traveller revealed how he was kidnapped while travelling through the bush in the Democratic Republic of Congo With enough horrifying tales to put you off holidays forever, seasoned travellers have been sharing their worst stories in a forum on Reddit. They include dodgy bouncers trying to extort money in Tijuana, Mexico, and getting caught in cross-fire at an airport in Djbouti, Africa. One of the most terrifying accounts though, was of a man who was working in the Democratic Republic Of Congo as an aid worker. The user called Borisdiebestie revealed: 'Due to my work for an aid agency in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I often stay in the very unstable and violent east of the country. 'Two persons including me were kidnapped by the FDLR rebel group (an organisation that exists since the Rwandan genocide) when we entered a region which is located outside the governmental and the UN jurisdiction in the deep bush to provide medical help after a rebel attack on a village in that region. 'Despite having worked under similar conditions and experienced other life threatening events like bombardments, the situation in the Congo was the single most dangerous event in my life, which also made me overthink my lifestyle of 'just hoping for the best' all the time.' A young woman was attacked in Florence with a needle and woke up on a hospital trolley down a dark city alleyway Travellers don't have to be in the deep bush of a war-torn country in order to come face-to-face with trouble though. A young woman visiting the Italian city of Florence was horrified after being attacked with a needle while enjoying evening drinks. The user called Princetonkane said: 'I was 19 and having a few drinks at the bar, the last thing I remember was going to the toilets, then standing outside leaning against a wall and then finally waking up in an alleyway on a hospital bed with no mattress. 'As I began to come to, I notice my belt had been cut and my jacket was next to me... and there's a needle hanging out of my arm. 'I heard some noises coming around the corner, so pulled the needle out and ran towards the light of the streets. but could barely walk and I fell over a few times. 'I managed to stumble into a hotel, where the concierge was kind enough to draw me a map back to Central station where my hotel was. It was the scariest night of my life and I had to be tested for diseases for the following six months.' Often, criminals tend to prey on tourists who are drinking at bars as they believe the alcohol lets people's guard down. Tourists in Tijuana were threatened by bouncers and coerced into paying an extortionate amount of money for drinks on a night out (file image) For this reason, holidaymakers visiting well-known vacation party spots can often get into trouble with locals after a night out. But in some cases, the staff inside the venue are the ones not to be trusted. Like in the case of Sublimotion, who revealed: 'On our first day in Tijuana, we went to a bar that was packed and crowded outside, but totally empty inside except for us. 'We got a few drinks, finished them and ask for the bill but they said we had to order more before we could leave. 'Eventually they had two bouncers guarding the door to keep us from leaving unless we ordered more, so with no choice, we ended up spending more than $300 on the bill before they allowed us to leave. A family were approached by machete-wielding men while on holiday in El Salvador (file image) 'We decided to cut our trip short and head back up to the U.S instantly that very night.' While most people would be on guard in downtown drinking areas or while travelling in the bush, it is usually expected that a person would be safe after passing through the security gates while waiting to board a flight though. But that wasn't the case for a user called Feawen when he was travelling through Djbouti airport on his way to Dubai from Dublin. He said: 'I ended up getting shot at by the presidential guard, and the whole airport disappeared, but I had no idea what to do as I had turned in my work cell phone so had no way of contacting anyone to get out of the place. 'They were actually shooting at each other, but our bus was behind the second guy getting shot at and it peppered the bus on the runway tarmac. 'If you haven't heard gunfire aimed at you, it really doesn't sound loud, but once that full auto goes off, you know exactly what it is and you hit the ground.' While all of these tales ended with the person involved escaping unharmed, they were able to think on their feet to manoeuvre out of the situation. But nowhere more was that so than on a holiday a user called Yoboyobo took to El Salvador with his family. He said:'I was with my wife our two boys and my best friend who is from there. 'We were hiking this jagged and black volcanic rock field along an open stretch of the highway, but we knew we shouldn't really be there as we had to crawl through barbed wire to get in. 'We were about 200 yards from the road when two men with machetes started to approach us, but my friend didn't notice them until they were about 20 yards away. 'As they got closer, my friend who was using our camcorder and span around and started interviewing them like they were on CNN. She's one of the biggest supermodels of all time, as well as a lingerie designer and TV presenter. But Heidi Klum's most important job is that of mother to her four children. The 43-year-old always makes time amid her busy schedule for the youngsters, and on Wednesday she was spotted taking them to see a Broadway musical in New York City. Scroll down for video Model mother: Heidi Klum proved once again what a devoted mother she is as she spent the day with her four kids on Wednesday taking them to see the Broadway musical, School of Rock The Project Runway host and judge dressed down for the occasion in a white T-shirt, jeans and trainers. But there was a sexy touch to her look, as the top was sheer enough to reveal Heidi's black bra underneath. The German beauty paired the outfit with a large zebra-printed tote bag, while wearing her blonde hair down. Heidi finished off her look with aviator sunglasses over her minimally made-up face. Always looks like a star: The mother-of-four stepped out in a comfortable yet chic outfit as she wore a see-through white shirt, partly tucked into cropped faded jeans, and black-and-white Nike trainers Apple doesn't fall far: The German beauty passes on her trendy style to her kiddos as they looked stylish for the streets in their outfits Heidi certainly knows how to pass on her trendy taste over to her children as they donned sharp outfits for their exciting outing to the musical, School of Rock. Her 12-year-old daughter Helene rocked a blue-and-black laced dress that she paired with black fringed ankle boots The youngest daughter of the group, six-year-old Lou, wore a colorful pink and blue dress, metallic silver flats, and a matching color ribbon tied in her hair. Hold on tight! The America's Got Talent judge walked side-by-side with, (from left), 12-year-old Helene, ten-year-old Henry, and six-year-old Lou Henry, 10, who is also one of the four kids who Heidi shares with ex-spouse Seal, looked smart in a bright blue collared shirt, denim jeans, and sunshine yellow Nike sneakers. Nine-year-old Johan was not seen heading to the musical, but later appeared in Heidi's Instagram picture after they watched the musical. The mother-of-four shared a festive photo on her Instagram page where she and her four kids faced their backs to the camera as they held up their hands in a rock-and-roll gesture. Kids of Rock: The family enjoyed their afternoon watching the musical, School of Rock, as Heidi posted this to her Instagram after the show saying, 'We loved School of Rock #kidsrule #broadway #rockon' VIP: Heidi and her family got all-access passes to the event, and the German beauty posed backstage She captioned the photo: 'We loved School of Rock #kidsrule #broadway #rockon.' The family were lucky enough to get to meet the young cast members of the play backstage, and Heidi happily posed for some photos with them. Heidi and Seal announced their separation in January 2012 after almost seven years of marriage, and finalised their divorce last October. The stunner has been dating art dealer Vito Schnabel, 29, for the past two years. Prior to that she was in a relationship with her former bodyguard Martin Kristen. You did great: Heidi was more than happy to chat to the young members of the musical's cast Demi Lovato is all about body confidence. And for the cover of her appropriately named new single Body Say, the 23-year-old songstress decided to pose topless for a steamy photo. The former Disney star smouldered in a black and white shot which showed her wearing no clothes but facing with her back to the camera. Scroll down for video Body confident! Demi Lovato decided to pose topless for a steamy photo for her upcoming single, Body Say The tantalizing picture showed her sitting on a bed with the covers draped over her slightly whilst a black lacy bra is at the end of the bed. Topless Demi showed off one of her many tattoos. On her shoulder the Cool For The Summer hitmaker has 'now I'm a warrior' written across the back of her left shoulder. Looking good! Demi joked around on Snapchat ahead of her big night with some Snapchat filters Smouldering: She was clearly excited for the evening ahead as she played around with all the filters Atlanta bound! The brunette beauty will perform the first night of her Future Now Tour with Nick Jonas The tattoo is a mantra similar to many of the pop stars other inkings including, however Demi drew inspiration for this one from her own lyrics, from the song of the same name. Despite now being body confident Demi has struggled her entire life with body image and just recently the brunette beauty opened up to American Airlines magazine, American Way. She discussed her battles with bulimia, bipolar disorder and addiction issues for their July cover. Prepping: It looked as though Nick was getting in a workout ahead of his big performance in Atlanta Selfie time: Nick couldn't resist taking some selfies and a video ahead of the big night Demi revealed her eating disorder began when she was just a toddler, because she was influenced by her mother's eating disorder, and she also felt judged for her looks after competing in child beauty pageants from the age of seven. 'My body-image awareness started way before that,' she said. 'But I do attribute a little of my insecurities to being onstage and judged for my beauty.' The outspoken pop star now encourages her fans to embrace their bodies. The team's together! Nick and Demi were seen in a huddle with the rest of their crew On Tuesday, Demi tweeted: 'Whenever you start to judge your body, remember it's keeping you alive.. so cherish it,' adding a heart emoji. Meanwhile, Demi will kick off the first night of The Honda Civic: Future Now Tour in Atlanta with Nick Jonas on Wednesday evening. The pair got snap happy on both their Snapchats as they took some videos and selfies ahead of their big night. Deep in thought: The duo looked like they needed a minute to get in the zone before their performance Team spirit! The entire crew were seen huddling and high fiving ahead of the first night in Atlanta The benefits of free trade are vast, and enjoyed throughout the world. The alternative trade restricted by protective tariffs and quotas concentrates benefits to a protected few who profit due to less competition from foreign competitors. The morality of free trade is clear. Individuals can choose what they buy from where, linking the world through a network of exchange. Integration through trade and exchange is a major factor lifting people out of poverty. The more and freer the trade, the better for human flourishing. Despite this, there is a growing protectionist movement in the United States political landscape. In Abraham Kuypers book Antirevolutionaire Staatkunde (or Anti-Revolutionary Politics), he discusses his political support of tariff increases in the Netherlands. One of Kuypers arguments in defense of tariffs is a moral argument, which stems from concerns over unemployment. He writes: Excessive enthusiasm for Free Trade and for free movement of population can deprive men of work who would otherwise have it in abundance. Free Trade can have as a consequence that many items are fabricated abroad so that there is no work to be done here. This can be observed in its simplest form in the case of lumber. If unsawed logs are imported, then the wages of sawing can be earned here. If, however, lumber arrives sawed, then the wages for sawing are lost here. Frederick Nymeyer, in a 1956 article titled Abraham Kuypers Unscriptural And Unsound Ideas On Tariff Protection, takes Kuyper to task for what he sees as grievous moral and economic errors in his defense of tariffs. Kuypers defense of protectionism is rooted in concern for workers, like Dutch sawmill workers, who might be unemployed due to imports of already sawed lumber. These workers, and the sawmill owners, capture the concentrated benefits of restricted trade on lumber. The costs of such a restriction, however, are spread across all the consumers of lumber throughout the Netherlands. They pay in higher prices. As Nymeyer writes: From this viewpoint there was no gain to be obtained by Dutch sawmill employees except at the expense of other Dutchmen, namely the consumers. What virtuous morality is there in helping one man at the expense of another? Is this good Calvinist brotherly love? Is this the Christian religion? Is this Anti Revolutionary statesmanship? [emphasis added] Dutch citizens are not the only ones harmed by this protectionist policy designed to benefit domestic sawmill workers. Foreign sawmill workers are harmed in the same way Kuyper fears for the Dutch. With fewer markets for their products, they may also end up unemployed. Nymeyer argues that Kuyper rejects what he calls the law of brotherly love in advocating for economic programs that unfairly advantage Dutch over foreign sawmill workers. In plain language, Kuyper has scales for morality with two sets of weights; one set of weights for Dutchmen; another set of weights for Swedes (foreigners). Somewhere in Scripture there is a very unfavorable comment on the morality of different sets of weights. Nymeyer rejects the notion that Christians are more obligated to their brothers and sisters that happen to share the same nation as them than those that do not. Citing the Parable of the Good Samaritan, he proclaims ALL men are our neighbors. Tariffs are immoral because they unfairly benefit one group of people over another through the coercion of the state. They erode individual choice, while simultaneously reinforcing nationalist ideas. The morality (or lack thereof) of tariffs remains an important consideration even today, given todays political rhetoric condemning trade and calling for renewed protectionism and restricted trade. Christians should reject protectionist tariffs not only because they are economically unsound, but also because of their immorality and incompatibility with Christianity. Shanina Shaik certainly dares to bare as she poses for Seafolly's Spring/Summer 2016/17 collection campaign. In one of the stunning frames from the new shoot, the 25-year-old Australian model, who is the new face for the stylish swimwear label, is seen sporting a black printed bikini top teamed with matching leggings. She flashes a generous glimpse of her taut stomach, while teasing fans with just a hint of her cleavage as she poses side-on for the outdoor shot. Scroll down for video Swimwear stunner: Shanina Shaik dares to bare in Seafolly's Spring/Summer 2016/17 collection campaign Shanina's classic triangle-cut bikini top is made of a black fabric, with a bold multicoloured floral print splashed across. The same pastel design is printed on the matching leggings, which hug her trim pins perfectly as she poses on the beach. A black jacket is seen draped from her arms, as she leans her head back and sultrily stares into the camera lens. Captured in New South Wales coastal town Byron Bay, the shoot showcases Seafolly's Spring/Summer 2016/17 collection. Runway sensation: Shanina has previously flashed the flesh when strutting the catwalk for Victoria's Secret on several occasions - pictured at the 2015 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in New York Shanina, who is currently in Australia to promote her latest project, is no stranger to flashing the flesh. She has strut the catwalk for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show on several occasions, first in 2011, and then in 2012, 2014 and 2015. The stunner began her modelling in her teenage years and finished as runner-up in 2008 on Australian reality television show Make Me A Supermodel. And she has plenty to celebrate in her personal as well as professional life. The model is set to wed DJ Ruckus, real name Gregory Andrews, the pair having announced their big engagement news late last year when Ruckus popped the big question. Kendall Jenner is a Snapchat queen. And on Wednesday, the 20-year-old used the social media app's face swapping function to trade looks with pal Willow Smith, 15. The reality star kept her followers and herself entertained as she sat in the backseat of a car and superimposed Willow's face over her own. Scroll down for video Optical illusion: Kendall Jenner, 20, used Snapchat's face swapping function to trade looks with pal Willow Smith, 15,including her nose ring and dreadlocks Kendall appeared delighted with the results, captioning the clip: 'Me as Willow is wow.' In the image, the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star is seen wearing heavy eye make-up and sporting the teen's famous dreadlocks and nose ring. Only Kendall's top half was in view in the selfie as she tilted her face back and forth showing off her social media illusion. The real thing: Willow, the daughter of Hollywood stars Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, also posted a selfie on her Instagram showing her in close-up while sitting in a car Charmed lives: The reality star and the celebrity offspring, pictured in April 2014, both grew up in the LA suburb of Calabasas and are close friends, along with Kendall's siser Kylie, 18, and Willow's brother Jaden, 17 Kendall and Willow have grown up close to each other in the increasingly exclusive LA suburb of Calabasas. Both have famous parents who have encouraged them to seek fame and celebrity from an early age. Kris Jenner has orchestrated her daughter's modeling ambitions via the exposure gained on the family's long-running reality series. Ambitious: Willow, who had a hit record Whip My Hair at the age of nine thanks to her family connections, is now following her reality star BFF into modeling. She's pictured at the Met Gala in NYC in May Meanwhile, Will and Jada helped their daughter score a hit record Whip My Hair at the tender age of nine. She's now following BFF Kendall into modeling and has just shot her first Chanel eyewear campaign. The two girls along with Kendall's sister Kylie, 18, and Willow's brother Jaden, 17, are a tight group and often hang out together. In fact, Kendall and Jaden traveled from France to London together on Monday, posting a black and white Instagram snap of them sitting side by side. She spent the weekend strutting her stuff in the muddy fields of Glastonbury. But Daisy Lowe opted for a much more polished look as she attended the world premiere of Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, on Wednesday. The 27-year-old oozed glamour as she poured her infamous curves into a stunning silver and black Vivienne Westwood gown. Scroll down for video Glamorous! Daisy Lowe opted for a polished look as she attended the world premiere of Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, on Wednesday However, she suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction as she accidentally flashed her spanx while curtsying for the camera. Maintaining her composure, the brunette beauty continued to smile throughout her red carpet appearance. But it's perhaps no surprise that the model wanted to wear control pants, as the gorgeous semi-sheer gown clung to her womanly physique in all the right places. Stylish! The 27-year-old oozed glamour as she poured her infamous curves into a stunning silver and black Vivienne Westwood gown As well as flaunting her fabulous figure, Daisy also showed off her decolletage and bare shoulders in the dress with an on-trend bardot neckline. Daisy opted for delicate jewelry to complement her outfit, with a matching silver necklace and bracelet. And she kept her accessories to a minimum as she toted a tiny black clutch bag. Oops! Daisy suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction as she accidentally flashed her spanx while curtsying for the camera. The model also kept her look ladylike as she added some extra height to her alreay endless legs with a pair of towering stiletto heels. Despite her mainly muted shades, Daisy couldn't resist adding a pop of colour to her look as she sported a vibrant scarlet manicure. But she kept the rest of her makeup to a minimum apart from lashings of mascara and a delicate nude lip. Daisy also showed off her pretty features as she parted her bangs in the centre and let her brunette locks cascade down her black into glossy waves. Composed: The brunette beauty continued to smile throughout her red carpet appearance Fashionista! Daisy showed off her decolletage and bare shoulders in the dress with an on-trend bardot neckline But it's not the only high profile event that the star visited on Wednesday - as she was also seen at the Rimowa store opening. The daughter of rocker Gavin Rossdale couldn't be happier as she recently confirmed a new romance with Darius Campbell just weeks after splitting with her ex Thomas Cohen. She told Grazia magazine: 'No, I'm not single and, yes, he's a lovely guy.' However, the model admitted that she's not quite ready to settle down yet. She added in the interview: 'I used to be such a Saffy [from Ab Fab]. Even in my early twenties, all I wanted was to settle down and have a family, but now it's time to get out there, follow my dreams and have some fun.' Mix and match: Daisy opted for delicate jewelry to complement her outfit, with a matching silver necklace and bracelet Daisy has faced her fair share of heartbreak over the years and has had a number of high-profile lovers, including DJ Mark Ronson and actor Matt Smith. The first big screen adaptation of the hit TV comedy features Eddy and Patsy fleeing to the French Riviera after being caught in a media storm. Also starring in the movie are Julia Sawalha (Saffy), Jane Horrocks (Bubble), June Whitfield (Mother), Rebel Wilson, Kate Moss, Celia Imrie, Lulu, Jean Paul Gaultier, Cara Delevingne and Emma Bunton, among others. In scenes filmed on location by London's River Thames last November, it looks like supermodel Kate - playing herself - will be killed off. Walking tall! Daisy added some extra height to her alreay endless legs with a pair of towering stiletto heels Wearing a floor-length sequinned number, a chain-smoking and champagne swilling Kate was seen filming scenes wading through the murky waters of the Thames. Fashionable extras were also spotted creating a shrine to the model by Tower Bridge, suggesting Kate has died. Jennifer revealed that a movie version of the sitcom - which originally ran on the BBC from 1992 - 2012 - was on the cards early last year. Red hot! Daisy couldn't resist adding a pop of colour to her look as she sported a vibrant scarlet manicure She said the decision was spurred on by co-star Joanna, who told her they had to 'do it before we die'. Joanna has said of getting back together to shoot the film: 'All the old cast are in it, there are plenty of surprises. It's a fantastic story. It's very funny. It's divine, glamorous, ridiculous and fabulous.' Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie is due for release in UK cinemas on 1 July and US cinemas on 22 July. She's no stranger to heartbreak following her public break-up with The Bachelor 'love rat' Blake Garvey two months ago. But it certainly looked as if Louise Pillidge had found her 'happily ever after' moment as she posed for a wedding photo shoot with a handsome mystery man. The 28-year-old was pictured displaying her slender frame in a plunging white bridal gown as she enjoyed her 'first dance'. Scroll down for video Happily ever after? Ex-Bachelor star Louise Pillidge (right) played the role of blushing bride to perfection with a handsome mystery man in a wedding photo shoot - just two months after her split from Blake Garvey Louise played the role of blushing bride to perfection as she cuddled up to a male companion in promotional shots for an upcoming fashion event. The reality TV star appeared a picture of bliss alongside her 'husband' while they put on a very affectionate display for the cameras. Meanwhile, she recently shared several behind-the-scenes images from the photo shoot on her blog Louise Pillidge Lifestyle. In character: Louie - who is hosting a bridal fashion event in Perth next month - was a picture of happiness as make-up artists and hair stylists added finishing touches to her wedding day look Louise also announced she will be hosting the She Wears White Bridal Fashion Fest in Perth next month. The festival, which is priced from $85 to $100, is scheduled to take place at The Old Pickle Factory in West Perth on July 30th. In the on-set photos, Louise looks comfortably in character as a young bride on her wedding day - despite her recent split from Blake. Special day: The 28-year-old shared several behind-the-scenes images from the photo shoot on her blog Romance: Other photos show a glamourous set complete with candles, luxury furniture and floral displays She is shown smiling happily in a jewelled headpiece as make-up artists and hair stylists add finishing touches to her look. It isn't hard to imagine similar scenes on Louise's real wedding day, whenever that may be. Other photos show a glamourous set design complete with candles, luxury furniture and floral displays. The backdrop of the photo shoot creates a romantic atmosphere for the 'husband' and 'wife' on their special day. Luxury: The backdrop of the photo shoot creates a romantic atmosphere for the 'husband' and 'wife' on their special day Always a bridesmaid? It isn't hard to imagine similar scenes on Louise's real wedding day, whenever that may be. Pictured at a separate bridal event last month Louise placed third in The Bachelor 2014, but later began dating series hunk Blake after he abruptly ended his engagement to winner Sam Frost. The Perth auctioneer, 33, was later branded Australia's 'most hated man' for unceremoniously dumping Sam just five weeks after his proposal. Meanwhile, his decision to enter a relationship Louise drew public scrutiny, which she later admitted was 'hard to move on from'. In April, Blake and Louise called off their 18-month romance - but caused controversy yet again by posing for a 'break-up' photo shoot in New Idea. His third choice? Louise was a runner-up in The Bachelor 2014, but later began dating series hunk Blake Garvey (right) after he abruptly ended his engagement to winner Sam Frost She's known for playing the ever-so-sensible Saffron Monsoon, in Absolutely Fabulous. But Julia Sawalha showed off her more daring side as she flaunted her impressive cleavage in a glitzy gown for the Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie premiere, on Wednesday. And after taking centre stage on the red carpet, the 47-year-old was later joined by her toyboy boyfriend, Luke Hollingworth, 30, at the film's after party. Scroll down for video Loved-up: Julia Sawalha was later joined by her toyboy boyfriend, Luke Hollingworth, 30, at the film's after party The stunning actress met her other half on the set of the feature-length film when he worked as a sound engineer and she described the hunk as 'quite a dish' at the premiere that night. Julia looked a vision of youth in the glamorous ensemble, which showed off her fabulous figure with a pretty fit and flare finish. Initially the actress complemented her dress with a pair of towering silver heels. However, she later slipped into a pair of more comfortable metallic brogues as she got ready to dance the night away with her beau. Flaunting it! Julia Sawalha showed off her more daring side as she flaunted her impressive cleavage in a glitzy gown for the Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie premiere, on Wednesday Julia made sure that she shimmered all over as she tightly grasped a small golden clutch bag and sported some large drop earrings that drew attention to her elegantly long neck. But she balanced out her look as she kept her hair and makeup low-key and tied her brunette locks into a sophisticated up-do. And she drew attention to her piercing peepers with an expertly blended smokey eye and a subtle rose lip. All that glitters: Julia slipped into a pair of more comfortable metallic brogues as she got ready to dance the night away with her beau Ladylike: Julia looked a vision of youth in the glamorous ensemble, which showed off her fabulous figure with a pretty fit and flare finish Meanwhile, Luke looked extremely dapper as he stood proudly next to his girlfriend. The sound engineer cut a classic figure in a well-tailored black suit and crisp white shirt. But he kept things casual, as he rounded off his style with a pair of monochrome trainers. Luke also accentuated his chiseled good looks with some designer stubble and glossy shoulder length hair. Golden girl: Julia made sure that she shimmered all over as she tightly grasped a small golden clutch bag What a gem! Julia sported some large drop earrings that drew attention to her elegantly long neck Stylish: Julia balanced out her look as she kept her hair and makeup low-key and tied her brunette locks into a sophisticated up-do Julia and Luke found love on the set of the show's film. Speaking to The Mirror, she said: 'The age gap took a while to get my head around but hes so emotionally mature he helps me be more relaxed. Hes younger than me but hes an old soul. 'We have the same sense of humour. We laugh all day and hes the kindest and most loving partner I would ever wish for. Ive always dated men my age or significantly older and none of them are a patch on Luke. Standing tall: Initially the actress complemented her dress with a pair of towering silver heels Made-up! Julia drew attention to her piercing peepers with an expertly blended smokey eye and a subtle rose lip 'Before Luke, I was single for seven years. By the time we got together, Id stopped looking for someone else to fill the void.' The first big screen adaptation of the hit TV comedy features Eddy and Patsy fleeing to the French Riviera after being caught in a media storm. Also starring in the movie are Julia Sawalha (Saffy), Jane Horrocks (Bubble), June Whitfield (Mother), Rebel Wilson, Kate Moss, Celia Imrie, Lulu, Jean Paul Gaultier, Cara Delevingne and Emma Bunton, among others. Pucker up! The actress blew a kiss to her adoring fans as she stepped out on to the red carpet Shining brightly! The sequinned gown perfectly matched the glittery theme of the evening In scenes filmed on location by London's River Thames last November, it looks like supermodel Kate - playing herself - will be killed off. Wearing a floor-length sequinned number, a chain-smoking and champagne swilling Kate was seen filming scenes wading through the murky waters of the Thames. Fashionable extras were also spotted creating a shrine to the model by Tower Bridge, suggesting Kate has died. Jennifer revealed that a movie version of the sitcom - which originally ran on the BBC from 1992 - 2012 - was on the cards early last year. She said the decision was spurred on by co-star Joanna, who told her they had to 'do it before we die'. Joanna has said of getting back together to shoot the film: 'All the old cast are in it, there are plenty of surprises. It's a fantastic story. It's very funny. It's divine, glamorous, ridiculous and fabulous.' Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie is due for release in UK cinemas on 1 July and US cinemas on 22 July. Shes been a household name for decades thanks to her dazzling career on stage and in film. But Dame Judi Dench showed she still had the power to shock after she got a tattoo for her 81st birthday. Dame Judi, whose unconventional present was given to her last year by daughter Finty, had the words carpe diem inked onto her right wrist. The Oscar-winning actress claimed that the gift had been a surprise and that the words were meant to be her motto, although the wording caused some confusion among the company of The Winters Tale, with whom she was performing at the time. Scroll down for video Dame Judi's new ink can be seen on the inside of her wrist, after she got a 'Carpe Diem' as part of an 81st birthday present from her daughter She told Surrey Life: Thats my motto: Seize the day. Finty gave it to me for my 81st birthday shes wonderful with surprises. Nice idea: The block text was clear to see as she shook hands Mind you the company of A Winters Tale used to say that it said fish of the day. Dame Judi also hinted that while the tattoo showed her determination to remain young she admitted that the effects of age were also catching up with her. She added: I just want to go on being mobile and able to do things. Im not going to be beaten by my eyes. I have macular degeneration but you just have to settle for it. On my scripts, my font is point-size 22, so you can imagine Its ridiculous, its a farce but Im not going to give in. With the typical pluck that exemplified her performances as M in the James Bond films, Dame Judi refused to consider retirement and claimed that she fully intended on carrying on with acting. She said: Its an awful word retirement. I see it as a step back in a way, a step down. And if you give up on one thing then it seems to me that you might as well give up another and so on, when its so much better to keep the mind active. Dame Judi also hinted that while the tattoo showed her determination to remain young she admitted that the effects of age were also catching up with her. She unveiled her tattoo in an appearance at Chelsea Flower Show last month (pictured) Dame Judi has previously expressed an interest in having a tattoo. Talking to Good Housekeeping magazine in 2015, she said: I am tempted to have a tattoo to mark my birthday. Fintys [her daughter] very keen on me having one. Theres an Indian symbol that I like which supposedly represents life and love and everything. Other veteran actresses with tattoos include Dame Helen Mirren, aged 70, who has been inked with interlocking Vs on her left hand. She previously claimed that she had tattoo done while very drunk when acting with an American Indian theatre group in Minnesota as a young woman. Dame Helen explained: About six of us got them at the same time. Its a kind of mad bonding thing you do from time to time in your life. It was done with a safety pin and was very painful. She later told Hello! magazine: I have a tattoo that means love thy neighbour, even if your neighbour is as different from you as you can possibly imagine. She surprised everyone when she married Ryan Dorsey in 2014, two months after splitting from Big Sean and without having revealed that they were dating. But Naya Rivera and her husband are still going strong and will soon be celebrating their second wedding anniversary. The 29-year-old was seen stepping out ahead of the big day next month as she picked up supplies at Bristol Farms before visiting the Andy LeCompte Salon. Scroll down for video Looking good: Naya put her very enviable slim frame on display as she indulged in some shopping at Bristol Farms on Wednesday Naya put her very enviable slim frame on display in an all-black outfit for her day out, and showed off her freshly blown out tresses. She wore a pair of skinny black jeans and a casual black vest as she accessorized with a pair of black shades and a subtle silver chain. The Californian-born beauty kept with the black theme as she carried a matching bag with her and also showed off black nail polish. It's hard to believe that Naya welcomed her first child with Ryan just nine months ago. Lovely: The 29-year-old Glee star also visited the Andy LeCompte Salon as she showed off her flowing raven tresses New style: Naya was sporting a bob hairstyle after her appearance at the salon Black is the new black: The brunette beauty donned an all black outfit for her day out The mother-of-one has gave birth to son Josey on September 17, 2015. The couple - who have known each other for four years - surprised everyone when they married in a secret ceremony in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico on July 19, 2014. But it seems the pair couldn't be happier and just last week for Father's Day Naya shared a sweet snap of her two favourite boys. Doing the shopping: Naya went to Bristol Farms to do her weekly grocery shop All black: The Californian-born beauty kept with the black theme as she carried a black bag with her and also showed off her black nail polish. New venture: Naya - who is mostly known for playing Santana Lopez on the Fox hit series - is likely enjoying a bit of time off as she's been busy with her latest project - her book She captioned it: 'And a very happy first Father's Day to my partner in crime @dorseyryan thank you for everything that you do. We love you!' Naya - who is mostly known for playing Santana Lopez on Fox hit series Glee - is likely enjoying a bit of time off as she's been busy with her latest project. She has had a hectic schedule lately promoting her new book, Sorry Not Sorry: Dreams, Mistakes, and Growing Up. Getting candid: She has had a hectic schedule lately promoting her new book, Sorry Not Sorry: Dreams, Mistakes, and Growing Up Promotion time: She has been posting about it all over social media and last month uploaded a behind the scenes look on Instagram Naya has been posting about it all over social media and last month uploaded a behind the scenes look on Instagram. She captioned the video: 'I had a blast shooting the cover for my book "Sorry Not Sorry: Dreams, Mistakes, and Growing Up" in NYC. Here's a BTS look of the shoot! #sorrynotsorry.' The actress opens up about her roller coaster ride to stardom in her new memoir, hitting shelves in September. Happy couple: The pair have been married since 2014 and have a baby boy together Earlier this month, Australian 5SOS rocker Michael Clifford stepped out in Sydney showing off his peroxide blonde locks that appeared to be thinning and patchy. And on Wednesday, the guitarist covered up his mane with a black cap as he was spotted at Los Angeles International Airport. While there, the 20-year-old gave a young female fan a hug, as he cut a casual figure in his signature all-black ensemble. Scroll down for video 5SOS' Michael Clifford covered his hair with a cap at LAX on Wednesday after showing off what appeared to be patchy and thinning hair in Sydney recently. While there, he made a fan's day when he gave her a hug Wearing skinny leg tracksuit pants, an American-printed T-shirt and his favourite Harley-Davidson jacket and combat boots, he appeared ready for a long flight. He covered up his face wearing a pair of dark tinted aviator shades, with his cap featuring a bear symbol. Swung over both shoulders were two black bags. Ready to go: Wearing skinny leg tracksuit pants, a American-printed T-shirt and his favourite Harley-Davidson jacket and combat boots he appeared ready for a long flight Keeping it under wraps? It comes after he was spotted in Sydney recently at the Vegemite Mitey Drum launch with his hair appearing to feel the strain after years of playing around with hair dye Star-struck? The young fan looked both excited and nervous to approach him, wearing shorts and a T-shirt and glasses, carrying a Starbucks drink Michael - who is dating brunette model Crystal Leigh - appeared in high spirits. The young fan looked both excited and nervous to approach him, wearing shorts and a T-shirt and glasses, carrying a Starbucks drink. Michael smiled as she made her way over to him. It remains unclear where the star was travelling, however 5SOS are currently on an international tour and are playing numerous dates in the US before they head back to Australia. Mixing it up: He's previously had everything from jet-black hair to bright red and even blue streaks Nice and bright: he is seen here earlier year with blue hair It comes after he was spotted in Sydney recently at the Vegemite Mitey Drum launch with his hair appearing to feel the strain after years of playing around with hair dye. He's previously had everything from jet-black hair to bright red and even blue streaks. In 2015, when performing in London, his hair even caught fire, before he got treated. It is possible the onstage incident has contributed to his now thinning and patchy locks. Serious: In 2015, when performing in London, his hair even caught fire, before he got treated Off the market: Michael is dating brunette model Crystal Leigh (R), who is seen here with model Bryana Holly who previously dated Michael's 5SOS bandmate Ashton Irwin Where you headed? It remains unclear where the star was travelling, however 5SOS are currently on an international tour and are playing numerous dates in the US before they head back to Australia The group includes Michael, lead vocalist Luke Hemmings, Ashton Irwin and Calum Hood with the boys being known for hits including She Looks So Perfect and Amnesia. Michael - who hails from Sydney - was spotted on Sunday catching a flight to the US from Sydney Airport with girlfriend Crystal. It is unclear how long Michael and Crystal have been dating, though the pair have been pictured in some social media snaps in recent months. Earlier this year, they also enjoyed a short trip to Bali together with friends and his 5SOS bandmates. Ariel Winter served as an extra sexy advert for her upcoming film Dog Years on Wednesday. The 18-year-old shared a snap of herself on the set of the upcoming drama, soaking up in bathtub with strategically placed bubbles to protect her modesty. Ariel was quick to reassure her followers, however, that the wine glass next to her was non-alcoholic, and that she wasn't completely nude either. Rub a dub dub! Ariel Winter shared a snap of herself on Wednesday from the set of Dog Years, soaking up in bathtub with strategically placed bubbles to protect her modesty 'Today's office...relax everyone it's cranberry juice and I'm wearing lady bit pasties,' she wrote in the caption, along with the hashtags, '#DogYears #set #movie.' The Modern Family actress was the picture of relaxation as she lounged in her spa-like and candlelit set. Ariel plays Lil in Dog Years, a movie about a former film star who realizes he has passed his prime. The actress' revealing photo comes days after she announced her split from longtime boyfriend Laurent Claude Gaudette. Posterior take, please! Winter recently celebrated the social media milestone of 2 million followers by posting a racy picture of herself wearing a skimpy bikini A busty graduation: Ariel was forced to defend herself against body-shamers after she posted a picture of herself prepared for her graduation party in a skin-bearing, figure-hugging pink dress The duo has been on and off since 2013, and not too long ago Ariel quoted Beyonce's breakup track Sorry on one of her prom pictures The star took to her Twitter account to let fans know shes available on Saturday, sharing a Kim Kardashian gif along with the caption, 'Im like dropping hints that Im single.' This comes after she was forced to defend herself against body-shamers as she posted a picture of herself prepared for her graduation party in a skin-bearing, figure-hugging pink dress. Here's some more skin: On Friday she took to social media once more where she posted a pic of herself wearing a tiny pair of daisy duke shorts and crop top that had Burt Reynolds face on it Back on the market: The Modern Family star took to her Twitter account to let fans know shes available on Saturday, sharing a Kim Kardashian gif along with the caption, 'Im like dropping hints that Im single' After receiving numerous mean comments in response to the attire, the TV personality took to Twitter to shut down the haters. She wrote: 'Dear sorry body-shamers, I looked HOT in that dress. And if you hate it, don't buy it. But please get a hobby. XOXO Ariel #EmbraceYourBody.' On Friday she took to social media once more where she posted a pic of herself wearing a tiny pair of daisy duke shorts and crop top that had Burt Reynolds face on it. Burt will co-star with the beauty in the upcoming movie Dog Years, currently filming in in Knoxville, Tennessee. Big news! Although going through a breakup is always tough, Ariel, pictured in April in West Hollywood, has a lot to look forward to, including starting UCLA in the fall When asked her about the proliferation of revealing pictures on her Instagram page, the actress explained that shes sharing the photos because her body confidence is so high these days. She said: 'Ive been through a rollercoaster with myself definitely, growing up in the public eye.' Although going through a breakup is always tough, Ariel has a lot to look forward to, including starting UCLA in the fall. 'It's an AMAZING DAY! I'm going to UCLA," she shared on Instagram with a photo of her online admissions page from the school's website. "Thank you to everyone who has been there for me on this journey! #bruinsbaby.' She can call him her ex: The TV personality recently announced her split from longtime boyfriend Laurent Claude Gaudette. The pair is pictured here at an event in Hollywood in March Cool customers: Winter posted an Instagram of herself with a sharply-dressed friend on Instagram on Tuesday She graced the Givenchy show during Paris Fashion Week with her ethereal presence. Bella Hadid showed more of that flair for style as she emerged for an evening out with friends in New York City. The 19-year-old model was glowing in a white clingy sweater dress that stopped way above the knees and was paired with black thigh-high boots. Scroll down for video Hot in the city: Bella Hadid wore a clingy white sweater dress and thigh-high boots for an evening out on the town in NYC on Wednesday She gave no heed to the sultry 80-plus degree Fahrenheit temperatures judging by the outfit and seemed bent on having a good time. Bella smiled a little while crossing the sidewalk to a waiting car, a chic patterned bag clutched between her arm and her side. She wore her dark tresses pulled up into a tight top knot which made her creamy porcelain complexion glow all the more. Gorgeous at all angles: The model also showed off her red hot look from behind while getting into a car Leggy girl: The 19-year-old runway princess displayed long lean legs while leaving a building with her pals Ethereal: The brunette wore her hair in a tight top knot that showed off her creamy complexion So polished: Bella's tall black boots had a remarkable shine to them Let's go: The model stepped into the street towards a waiting vehicle that would take them all to their destination A light dusting of rouge could be detected on those cheeks and a touch of gloss on her mouth, but otherwise her look was natural-toned. Earlier in the day, Bella was beautiful in blue as she headed to her next meeting in New York City on Wednesday. The designers darling exuded appeal in a light blue, tightly cropped turtleneck sweater that allowed a peek of her stomach above the waistline of her faded jeans. Breezy in blue: Earlier on Wednesday, Bella looked stylish in a tight cropped turtleneck and high-waist jeans while out and about in NYC She means business: Bella's black tote bag was stuffed with papers Onward: The younger sister of Gigi Hadid emerged from a large black SUV and headed to her meeting Bella added a dark denim embroidered skirt and black boots despite the 80-degree Fahrenheit temperatures. She found a way to stay cool by pulling her dark locks into a tight topknot while shielding her eyes behind tinted shades. Papers stuffed into her chic black tote proved that this supermodel meant business as she emerged from a black SUV and stepped onto the curb. Cyclops: Bella borrowed a look from Greek and Roman mythology as she played with a another Snapchat imaging feature So silly: Bella appeared to be scaring herself at one point during her Snapchat fun Hungry pirate: Bella was dressed for her night out as she posted a pirate selfie The sister of Gigi Hadid also graces the cover of the July/August cover of L'Officiel Russia magazine. Bella's outing comes on the heels of an eyebrow-raising nterview involving her stepsisters Erin and Sara Foster. Erin and Sara shed new light on how they really feel about their father David Foster's ex-wife Yolanda Hadid, Bella and Gigi's mother. The Barely Famous stars took a blunt approach when speaking about their former stepmom and her fight against Lyme disease during a chat on SiriusXM's Dirty, Sexy, Funny with Jenny McCarthy on Wednesday. The sisters, who were promoting their own VH1 program that takes aim at reality shows, made it clear that their loyalty is to their music mogul dad in the wake of his split from the Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star, adding that people 'are so off the mark on how things went down.' Brynne Edelsten, the ex-wife of millionaire businessman Geoffrey Edelsten, was declared bankrupt on Thursday. The 33-year-old socialite was spotted looking tired and downcast while leaving Melbourne's Federal Circuit Court holding a stack of documents. It was previously reported that a Victorian law film had begun proceedings against Brynne for $70,000 in unpaid bills. Scroll down for video Legal battle: Brynne Edelsten (pictured), the ex-wife of millionaire businessman Geoffrey Edelsten, was declared bankrupt on Thursday According to public documents, an 'Affidavit of Service of Bankruptcy Notice' was filed by MGA Lawyers back in January. Brynne reportedly owes thousands in legal fees to the same lawyers who represented her during her separation from Geoffrey, 73. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Brynne's representatives for comment. Financial troubles: The 33-year-old socialite looked downcast as she was spotted leaving Melbourne's Federal Circuit Court holding a stack of documents this week Tired: It was previously reported that MGA Lawyers - who represented her during her separation from Geoffrey Edelsten - had begun proceedings against Brynne for $70,000 in unpaid bills Frugal: The former fitness instructor, from California, has publicly claimed to have 'cut back (her) cost of living dramatically' amid her financial troubles Meanwhile, the former fitness instructor has publicly claimed to have 'cut back (her) cost of living dramatically' amid her financial troubles. Brynne told the Herald Sun in April she was living 'on a budget' in a one-bedroom apartment while waiting for a divorce settlement. MGA Lawyers Mark Geremia told the publication: 'We issued a proceeding to recover the debt and she failed to file a defence. We were issued a judgment so we have begun bankruptcy proceedings.' Cutting back: Brynne told the Herald Sun in April she was living 'on a budget' in a one-bedroom apartment while waiting for a divorce settlement Single life: Following the breakdown of her marriage, Brynne has been linked to several men. Her ex-husband Geoffrey remarried Gabi Grecko in June 2015 but they split after just four months Brynne and Geoffrey, who share a 40 year age gap, wed in a lavish $3 million affair at Melbournes Crown Casino in November 2009. But they split in early 2014 amid rumours Geoffrey had taken another woman on holiday after meeting her on a 'sugar daddy' website. He denied having an affair, saying he did pay for a woman to travel with him to Miami - but the trip was strictly business. In April, Geoffrey told Daily Mail Australia that he's 'got nothing to do with' his former wife, adding that he hasn't 'spoken to her for nearly two years'. Whoops! At one point, Brynne was pictured collecting some papers that she dropped on the floor She's one of the world's most popular style icons. And on Wednesday, Australian fans finally got the chance to personally bask in Dita Von Teese's presence when the diva stopped by a Sydney Wheels & Dollbaby store for a meet-and-greet event. Before mingling with members of the public, the 43-year-old starlet posed for photos in the store with a few of her fellow burlesque performers. Strike a pose! Dita Von Teese is currently in Australia for her Strip Strip Hooray! burlesque tour The vintage clothes-loving bombshell was dressed in her National Velvet Dita Von Teese cardigan, which is currently being sold exclusively through Wheels & Dollbaby for $190.00 AUD. The stylish garment is embroided with black sateen roses, and features 'delicate pleated satin ribbon trim, plush black velvet buttons and a matching lush velvet necktie.' Dita made sure to spruik the limited edition product by not only wearing it herself, but also dressing her fellow burlesque performers in it. Fan service: The 43-year-old appeared at a Sydney Wheels & Dollbaby store to meet fans and fellow burlesque performers Matching: Dita was also promoting her National Velvet cardigan, which is sold exclusively through Wheels & Dollbaby for $190.00 AUD She paired the stunning piece with a vintage high-waisted pencil skirt and a pair of classic black kitten heels. Dita enjoys quite a strong following Down Under, with her signature lingerie collection currently being stocked by Myer. Hard at work: Dita posed for a photo with the owner of Wheels & Dollbaby, Melanie Greensmith Her Strip Strip Hooray! tour has been a huge hit across the country, with the glitzy starlet selling-out multiple shows in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. The glamourpuss, who was once married to shock rocker Marilyn Manson, now fronts her own multimillion-dollar branding empire. The burgeoning brand currently includes lingerie, perfume, clothing, books, and fake nails. She's previously rubbed shoulders with political elite. And on Thursday Real Housewives Of Melbourne star Gamble Breaux hit the campaign trail again with Malcolm Turnbull ahead of the upcoming Federal Election. The blonde beauty took to Instagram, sharing a snap with the Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party, looking chic for the occasion in a statement leather dress. Scroll down for video On the campaign trail: Real Housewives Of Melbourne star Gamble Breaux took to Instagram on Thursday sharing a snap with Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party Malcolm Turnbull, cutting a chic figure in a statement black dress 'It's no secret who I'm voting for in this election! Go @turnbullmalcolm Go @liberalaus,' she began the caption. 'Who ever you vote for make a sensible choice and enjoy being in a democracy!!! Happy federal election trendsetters!!!,' the television personality added. Gamble wore a peplum-style leather dress featuring an intricate belt that accentuated her slim waist. Accessorising with a diamond ring and pearl necklace, she let her long tousled tresses fall effortlessly around her shoulders. Mingling: Excited to catch Scott Morrison campaign trail La Trobe with favourite MP Jason Wood, she wrote alongside the snap shared to her social media accounts while at the Federal Budget launch last month This is not the first time the outspoken reality star has been vocal about her preferred choice of leadership. Last month she was spotted mingling at the Federal Budget launch with Treasurer Scott Morrison and MP Jason Wood. Excited to catch Scott Morrison campaign trail La Trobe with favourite MP Jason Wood, she wrote on Twitter and Instagram. The post drew the ire of some Twitter users, with one calling her out for supporting the Liberal Party, saying: Gamble, youre political views are f***ed. With all due respect I don't think you know what they are, Gamble shot back soon after, to which her critic said it was obvious who she supported since she was taking selfies with Liberals. Say cheese: Gamble rubbed shoulders with Malcolm whom she said had a lot of charisma and a great energy, while in Canberra last month for the budget 'My favourite': The art consultant was in Canberra last month attending a function at Parliament House for Mr Wood, who is the local member for La Trobe near her home in Melbourne Gamble posted other photos from her trip to Canberra last month for the budget. She was in the capital attending a function at Parliament House for Mr Wood, who is the local member for La Trobe near her home in Melbourne. Before the event she slipped her slender frame into a lace top, black knee-length skirt and coordinating jacket. Her two-toned locks were left out and curled, and she sported her favourite pearl necklace. Posing: She also snapped a photo with Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs Julia Bishop (R) and her partner David Panton (L) The art consultant later hit the Budget Ball and posted selfies with Tony Abbott, Julie Bishop, Scott Morrison, Peter Dutton, and Malcolm Turnbull. She later told the Herald Sun she was a fan of Mr Turnbull after meeting him and was very proud to be a Liberal Party supporter.' 'The Prime Minister had a lot of charisma, he had a great energy and was really focused and so personable, I was really impressed, she said. It was one of those moments you will never forget, meeting so many key people of our country. Gamble also confessed to the Canberra Times that she has parliamentary question time on in the background when she is doing the housework. She usually steps out wearing outfits that show off her incredible figure. But Jesinta Campbell, 24, once again swathed her physique in billowing fabric, donning a shapeless white gown as she attended the Olay Total Effects campaign launch in Sydney's Potts Point on Thursday. The brunette beauty, who was named as the face of Olay's Total Effects range earlier this month, hid most of her famous body underneath her sheath-like frock, which featured one-shoulder detailing and a thigh split. Scroll down for video Not her usual style! Jesinta Campbell, 24, once again swathed her figure in billowing fabric, donning a shapeless white gown as she attended the Olay Total Effects campaign launch in Sydney's Potts Point She completed her look with a pair of pointy-toed pumps in black and white stripes and adorned her slender arms with a scattering of delicate jewelry. Her makeup was kept fresh and feminine, with a touch of apricot-coloured blush, bronze eye-shadow and defined eyebrows. Channeling her inner Grecian goddess, the David Jones model swept her curled brunette locks to the side and plaited into a loose braid at the nape of her neck. She's got it covered! The brunette beauty, who was named as the face of Olay's Total Effects range earlier this month, hid most of her famous figure underneath her sheath-like frock, which featured one-shoulder detailing and a thigh split Glamour girl: She completed her look with a pair of pointy-toed pumps in black and white stripes and adorned her slender arms with a scattering of delicate jewelry She also proudly wore her weighty engagement ring, which she received from her beau Buddy Franklin in 2014. E! Australia host Ksenija Lukich also sat down with Jesinta for an interview, which will be featured on an upcoming episode of The Hype. Ksenija looked stylish in a black lace skater dress layered underneath a military jacket. Primped: Her makeup was kept fresh and feminine, with a touch of apricot-coloured blush, bronze eye-shadow and defined eyebrows Getting down to business: E! Australia host Ksenija Lukich also sat down with Jesinta for an interview, which will be featured on an upcoming episode of The Hype On trend: Ksenija looked stylish in a black lace skater dress layered underneath a military jacket She completed her look with a pair of sexy thigh-high suede boots and an application of vampy maroon nail polish. Following the interview, Jesinta and Ksenija made sure to cuddle up for a pouty selfie. Jesinta first burst onto the scene as a fresh-faced Gold Coast girl, who competed in the world's biggest pageant, Miss Universe, in 2010. She made her debut on the David Jones catwalk in August 2015, wowing the audience with her newly gym-honed pins and eye-popping abs. And it was announced in February that she would become an ambassador for the department store. Chic details: She completed her look with a pair of sexy thigh-high suede boots and an application of vampy maroon nail polish But first, let me take a selfie! Following the interview, Jesinta and Ksenija made sure to cuddle up for a pouty selfie Rise to fame: Jesinta first burst onto the scene as a fresh-faced Gold Coast girl, who competed in the world's biggest pageant, Miss Universe, in 2010 It's been a tough few weeks for PR maven Roxy Jacenko after her husband was sentenced to two years in jail for conspiring to commit insider trading. But on Thursday, the 36-year-old director and founder of Sweaty Betty PR and The Ministry of Talent showed her 101,000 Instagram followers she was back in routine taking her usual elevator selfies. Roxy snapped a picture of herself wearing a slick black Chanel blazer teamed with a crisp white T-shirt and Current/Elliott denim trousers. Scroll down for video She's back: PR maven Roxy Jacenko marks her return to 'HQ' in elevator selfie after her husband Oliver Curtis was sentenced to two years in jail She finished off her stylish look with a pair of aviator sunglasses and a Hermes Birkin bag slung over one arm, while proudly displaying her diamond encrusted wedding rings on her ring finger. The mother-of-two wore her blonde tresses out and straight, and opted for a natural palette of make-up to highlight her striking features. Meanwhile, Roxy's four-year-old daughter Pixie also made her return to social media after her father's sentencing on Friday. Catchy: Roxy's Instagram star daughter Pixie Curtis made entertaining return to social media with her younger brother Hunter after their father was sentenced to two years in prison The insta-famous four-year-old and her two-year-old brother were back to their old tricks and had social media fans applauding their adorable rendition of Justin Bieber's song Love Yourself. In the short video, uploaded to Pixie's Instagram account, the siblings were seen singing into their ice blocks. 'I've told him, follow my lead, stomp and don't stop - until I give you word.@huntercurtis14,' the video was captioned, penned by Pixie's mother who manages Pixie's account. The social media posts comes after Roxy's husband, Oliver Curtis, was jailed for two years on Friday after a lengthy trial in Sydney where he was found guilty of conspiring to commit insider trading in 2007 and 2008. Makeshift microphones: In the short video, uploaded to Pixie's Instagram account, the siblings were seen singing in what appears to be their ice blocks Roxy was by his side throughout the court proceedings, arriving at court on her husband's arm dressed in a parade of designer outfits. During most days of the trial, Roxy would capture the outfit she was wearing that day in an elevator selfie. Before his sentence was handed down last week, she pleaded with the court not to jail him, giving an emotional character reference in which she described him as their children's 'primary carer'. 'Pixie and Hunter adore their dad. He's fun, tolerant, uncomplaining and loving. They screech with excitement as soon as they see him and no one else matters to them not even me. 'Because of my work hours, I would describe Oli as the primary carer of Pixie and Hunter. 'Oli is a kind, considerate and reliable man. I have no doubt that he will never be involved in anything like this again,' she said. On Friday, Roxy returned to work after her husband's sentence was handed down. Oliver handed her his wedding ring, watch and a wad of $50 notes before being led away from the dock. Past week: The posts comes after her husband, Oliver Curtis, was jailed for two years on Friday after a lengthy trial in Sydney where he was found guilty of conspiring to commit insider trading in 2007 and 2008 She gave away her newborn at the end of Juno. But Ellen Page's character reverses the trick as she steals a baby and tries to pass it off as her own in the trailer for forthcoming Netflix film Tallulah. As if that was not enough, her con artist vegabond character then uses the child as a prop so she can force her way into an ex boyfriend's mother's life. Scroll down for video Snatched: Ellen Page's vegabond character steals a baby and tries to pass it off as her own in the trailer for forthcomng Netflix film Tallulah Unusually this is the fodder for a comedy-drama movie, which is written and directed by Orange Is The New Black scribe Sian Heder It kicks off with Ellen's lazy character sleeping in her van before heading to New York, where her ex boyfriend had wanted to go and start a proper life together, but left after she refused. Tallulah heads to the home of his mother, played by her old Juno co-star Allison Janney, but is told: 'I cant help you I haven't seen my son in two years. I dont know who you are.' The door is then angrily slammed on her face when she begs her to hand over some cash. Hop it: Her ex's mother is quick to tell her to get out of her building when she begs for cash Scavanger hunt: After being ejected she heads to a posh hotel to try and steal food and money Handed on a silver platter: She creeps around the corridors before finding a freshly delivered tray As you do: A mother comes to the door and assumes she is hotel staff and begs her to look after her baby The resourceful hippie then heads to a nearby posh hotel, where she intends to steal scraps and, if possible, some cash. But as she snatches some room service she is mistaken for a hotel worker, with a neglectful mother, who is played by soap favourite Tammy Blanchard, asking her to look after her child while she meets a lover for an illicit rendezvous. She wins the woman's confidence, and she is told: 'This is too much for me. Nobody ever tells you how hard it's going to be. 'This is too much for me': The woman complains about the difficulty of looking after a child She's got bottle: The youngster is shown wandering around the room with some beer Obvious course of action: When the woman passes out drunk Tallulah snatches her new employers baby 'I see all these women on TV and on the street and they're doing it and I don't know how.' When the woman passes out drunk Tallulah follows the only obvious course of action - snatching the child, heading back to her ex's home and trying to pass her off as their child. Of course she soon develops a bond with the gullible mother, and in one emotional scene in a park, tells her she herself was abandoned as a child. Big con: She marches to her ex's mother's house and claims that the youngster is theirs Taking the rap: The mother admits she has been neglectful when child services come Investigation: New York's finest then start a hunt to find out what happened to the baby She said: 'When I was six my mum sat me up on the stoop and told me to wait. I never saw her again. I think its better to not be needed.' A further twist in the tale comes when Tallulah finds out her new mother-in-law is in the midst of a messy divorce, which was sparked after her husband came out the closet and revealed he is gay. The film, which received mixed reviews after debuting at Sundance earlier this year, is available on Netflix on July 29. Bonding: Tallulah explains she was abandoned during a picturesque picnic in the park Meanwhile: Allison Janney's character is going through a divorce after her husband comes out as gay She's known for rocking edgy fashion ensembles on the catwalk. But Adriana Lima proved she can look good in anything, standing out from the crowd in an understated shorts and blazer suit as she attended a store opening at designer shopping centre Leblon in Rio De Janeiro. The 35-year-old bombshell looked every inch the Brazilian Lara Croft as she rocked a bold red lip and wore her long brunette hair in a sleek high ponytail on Wednesday. Scroll down for video Model behaviour: Adriana Lima showed off her cleavage and legs in a sexy shorts suit as she attended a store opening at designer shopping centre Leblon in Rio De Janeiro on Wednesday Pro: Showing off her stunning bone structure and piercing blue eyes, the supermodel perfected understated elegance in a black blazer and shorts suit Showing off her stunning bone structure and piercing blue eyes, the supermodel- who is of indigenous Brazilian, Swiss, Japanese, African and West Indian ancestory, perfected understated elegance in a black blazer and shorts suit. Rocking a low cut blue vest underneath she showed off her long lean legs and a hint of her tanned decolletage. Keeping her make-up simple, she wore a touch of bronzer accentuating her glowing complexion and high cheekbones. Chic: The 35-year-old bombshell looked every inch the Brazilian Lara Croft as she rocked a bold red lip and wore her long brunette hair in a sleek high ponytail on Wednesday Legs for days! Rocking a low cut blue vest underneath she showed off her long lean legs and a hint of her tanned decolletage And in keeping with her simple theme, she accessorised with knot earrings, nude nails and black killer heels. The mother-of-two showed off a delicate ankle tattoo and posed up a storm for the cameras. Later on she had a rifle through the racks of pretty monochrome clothing. Angles! Keeping her make-up simple, she wore a touch of bronzer accentuating her glowing complexion and high cheekbones Browsing: Later on she had a rifle through the racks of pretty monochrome clothing Multi talented? Despite being a world famous supermodel and successful Victoria's Secret Angel, Adriana recently revealed she she'd love to try her luck at acting and wants to star in a Tarantino film Despite being a world famous supermodel and successful Victoria's Secret Angel, Adriana recently revealed she she'd love to try her luck at acting and wants to star in a Tarantino film. Speaking to The New York Post's Page Six at the Fragrance Foundation Awards in New York City on Tuesday. 'My dream role is with Quentin Tarantino,' the Victoria's Secret Angel confessed, adding: 'Fingers crossed.' But the mother of Valentina, six, and Sienna, three - with ex-husband Marko Jaric - noted: 'I haven't had a chance to tell him that directly. 'I'm just waiting for someone to see me. I'm like, 'Hello, I'm here.'' Smile! The mother-of-two showed off a delicate ankle tattoo and posed up a storm for the cameras Her fiance DJ Ruckus - real name Greg Andrews - and former beau Tyson Beckford were involved in a nightclub brawl with one another last month. And on Thursday Victoria's Secret model Shanina Shaik shrugged off their feud as 'funny' while speaking to Daily Mail Australia. It was reported at the time that the two males were fighting over the 25-year-old catwalk stunner following a night club appearance. Scroll down for video Centre of attention: Shanina Shaik shrugged off the feud between fiance DJ Ruckus - real name Greg Andrews - and former beau Tyson Beckford as 'funny' on Thursday 'It was funny at the time,' she said, adding: 'I wasnt even in town and I was working so I didnt know what was happening.' While trying to turn a blind eye to the internationally reported feud the Australian beauty insisted all is well between Tyson and Ruckus. 'Everything is really great now and I wish him [Tyson] well and the most happiness just like my fiance and I have,' Shanina grinned to Daily Mail Australia. Head-to-head: It was reported at the time that the two males were fighting over the 25-year-old catwalk stunner following a night club appearance (Left, Ruckus, right, Tyson) Speaking to Daily Mail Australia on Thursday the 25-year-old said: 'It was funny at the time...I wasnt even in town and I was working so I didnt know what was happening' Her comments comes a week after Ruckus told Arzo Anwar's So Chic podcast he wants a re-match against the muscular model, saying: 'If you want to fight, Ill fight'. Ruckus seemed to confirm that the rivalry over Victoria's Secret model Shanina still continues four weeks after their infamous NYC brawl. 'Id love (a re-match)' he revealed, before clarifying: 'In a somewhat controlled environment, away from police, cameras.' The day after the 'bloody' brawl last month, Shanina posted to Twitter, 'I only know of one man and he fights for me'. Well wishes: The Australian model added: 'Everything is really great now and I wish him [Tyson] well and the most happiness just like my fiance (pictured) and I have' Round two? Her comments comes a week after Ruckus told Arzo Anwar's So Chic podcast he wants a re-match against the muscular model, saying: 'If you want to fight, Ill fight' Alongside the statement she included a screenshot of the front page of The New York Post, which featured an image of her down the left side of the page. The headline for the story read: 'The woman everyone is fighting over'. At the time it was reported that Tyson got into a late night fight with Ruckus over the Victoria's Secret model. The brawl between the former friends happened outside the Up & Down nightclub in Manhattan, New York, according to TMZ. Message: The day after the 'bloody' brawl last month, Shanina posted to Twitter, 'I only know of one man and he fights for me' Everyone loves her! Alongside the statement she included a screenshot of the front page of The New York Post which read: 'The woman everyone is fighting over' Tyson, a former Ralph Lauren model, had dated the Australian beauty on and off since 2008. But the couple finally called time on their relationship last year. And it seems Tyson wasn't best pleased when Ruckus, who has a residency at Hakkasan Las Vegas, got with his ex just a couple of months later. Apparently bad feelings had been growing between the two, and it surfaced when they bumped into one another at the nightclub. A slanging match erupted, with the 32-year-old DJ flipping off the 45-year-old model turned actor, sources told TMZ, and they then took it out to the street. Former flame: Tyson, a former Ralph Lauren model, had dated the Australian beauty on and off since 2008. But the couple finally called time on their relationship last year In love: Shanina and Ruckus are now planning their wedding after getting engaged during a romantic holiday in the Maldives, last December The website reported that the fight was violent and bloody, with Tyson on top of Ruckus beating him up as one of the DJ's friends began punching Tyson in the head. A doorman called the cops, but by the time they got there the men were gone and no arrests were made. Shanina and Tyson met on the set of Australia's Make Me A Supermodel in which she was a contestant and he was the host as well as a judge and mentor. Shanina and Ruckus, whose real name is Gregory Andrew, are now planning their wedding after getting engaged during a romantic holiday in the Maldives last December. It's the highly-anticipated show that has the ability to put you on the edge of your seat for the duration of every episode. And the first preview of Survivor Australia has been released giving audiences an insight into the high-octane, high-pressure, and very sexy-looking series ahead. The veteran American reality series, of which the long-time slogan is 'outwit, outplay, outlast', proves once again the experience isn't for the faint-hearted in the short preview released by Channel 10. Scroll down for video Main man: Adelaide-born actor Jonathan LaPaglia is the host of the newest season of Survivor Australia The clip involves a fast-paced montage showing a slew of bronzed bodies fighting it out in Samoa to the tune of Beyonce's Survivor. As well as giving audiences a glimpse of the potential eye candy on the show, several secretive details are revealed about the contestants' jobs and personalities. A high school teacher, a lawyer, a firefighter, a law student, an air traffic controller and a financial analyst are among the select group to fight it out on the island, reports News Corp. Battle time: The show will see 24 Australian castaways fight it out over 55 days in Samoa Easy on the eye! A high school teacher, a lawyer, a firefighter, a law student, an air traffic controller and a financial analyst are among the select group to fight it out on the island These individuals were selected from over 15,000 applicants, and they seem to be very easy on the eye, as they sport the signature branded Survivor bandanas and flaunt their toned bodies. One of the 24 Australian castaways reveals that despite being 'a teacher', he is 'a student at this game', while a female voice can be heard saying: 'I prosecute criminal cartels.' Another woman reveals in a stern voice that she is an 'intelligence analyst' involved in 'covert surveillance' and 'drug ops'. It's on! The show will see the contestants pitted against one another, with no idea who to trust Team spirit: Success on the veteran reality series relies heavily on making alliances and forming friendships The video continues to reveal the intentions and game plans of the chosen castaways. While one determined contestant says they will 'lie, cheat and steal' to make it through the 55 days, one of their competitors says 'mateship is very very imortant.' Another hopeful agrees, saying: 'Honesty can get you the full way, if you believe in yourself.' The series is the third Australian installment of the hugely-popular American show, however it sees the debut of new host, Adelaide-born actor Jonathan LaPaglia. Chosen ones: The 24 individuals to star on the show were selected from over 15,000 applicants While speaking to Nova 96.9 FM's Fitzy and Wippa show in May, the father-of-one admitted that his role on the show was more complex than he first thought. 'When the job was first presented to me, I looked at it and thought, "That's simple enough," but when I really looked at it, I realised that it's not that simple,' he said during the radio interview. Praising the show's long-standing host Jeff Probst, the actor added: '[Jeff] is so good at it, he makes it look easy.' Busty! The show sees the contestants sporting next-to-nothing as they attempt to survive on a tropical island Conniving: In the clip released on Wednesday, one determined contestant says they will 'lie, cheat and steal' to make it through the 55 days During his appearance on the breakfast radio show, Jonathan was also pressed by hosts Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli to reveal some of the contestants. While he remained tight-lipped about the details, the actor did say that one of the participants may be recognised by the public as a former sportsman whose profession involved a 'round ball'. As for the age of contestants, the Los Angeles-based actor said: 'The age [range] is from mid 20s to mid 60s.' She's been reviving her Liberty X days with a slew of performances up and down the country. But Michelle Heaton took a break from her singing prowess to attend the premiere of Eugenius at the London Palladium on Wednesday. The 36-year-old beauty off-setted her deep tan with a stunning monochrome ensemble which flaunted her gym-honed physique. Scroll down for video Edgy beauty: Michelle Heaton, 36, stunned in a monochrome ensemble as she attended the premiere of Eugenius at the London Palladium on Wednesday A sleeveless white top showcased her toned arms and glistening collarbone, which was further highlighted by a stack of silver necklaces. The racy high-waisted leather skin tight bottoms clad on to her every inch and featured an exposed silver zipper. A pair of caged black heels boded well with the edgy attire and accentuated her poker straight posture as she posed with a hand on her hip. Complementing her sunny glow was her deep red glossy pout and fluttery lashes, while her highlighted locks fell perfectly on her shoulders. Bold look: Complementing her sunny glow was her deep red glossy pout and fluttery eyes, while her highlighted locks fell perfectly on her shoulders Details: A sleeveless white top showcased her toned arms and glistening collarbone, which was further highlighted by a stack of silver necklaces Michelle recently joined her Liberty X bandmates with Tony Lundon, Jessica Taylor, Kelli Young and the recent Voice winner Kevin Simm to perform at Birmingham Pride earlier this month. The band catapulted to fame in 2001 after being formed on the ITV talent show, Popstars. Another talent star on the red carpet was Roxanne Pallett who took time out from her hectic schedule filming horror flick Habit. Arriving at the musical, the 33-year-old actress, who's appearing in Some Girl(s) at London's Park Theatre later this summer, looked pretty in a flirty floral dress with lace overlay. Flirty floral: Roxanne Pallett, 33, looked glam in sheer lace number as she attends the World Premiere concert performance of Eugenius at The London Palladium on Wednesday evening The pale pink number featured grey flower embellishments, and accentuated her golden tan. Wearing her glossy brunette hair in its trademark box fringe style, Roxanne went for bold brows, bronzed cheekbones and lashings of mascara. The former Emmerdale star accessorised with golden ballet pumps, layers of bangles and a matching pink box bag. Glam: Arriving at the musical, the actress looked pretty in a flirty floral dress with lace overlay Glowing: Wearing her glossy brunette hair in its trademark box fringe style, Roxanne went for bold brows, bronzed cheekbones and lashings of mascara The musical cast includes Warwick Davis of Star Wars and Harry Potter, David Bedella who starred in In The Heights, and Amy Lennox of Legally Blonde. Based in the eighties, the musical tells the story between lovestruck Janey and comic-mad writer Eugene, who against all odds ends up in Hollywood as the star of his own intergalactic battle. Last month Roxanne filmed a documentary to help raise awareness of the plights of the elderly, disguising herself as an older woman for the day. 'I only went through it for a few hours but it's left me with a really heavy heart,' said Roxanne- who is an ambassador for Age UK. Star studded cast: The musical cast includes Warwick Davis of Star Wars and Harry Potter (above) Continuing about her experience and the lack of help she received, she mentioned: 'No one was assisting me and it was obvious I needed help. 'One man barged me when I was walking down the street, it was like I didn't matter. 'There's a lot of chivalry out there but it doesn't seem to apply to older people and that's not right and it's not fair.' Since leaving Emmerdale in 2008, Roxanne has appeared in the stage production of the Rocky Horror Show and is set to star in the British film The Violaters this coming June. Having a heart for the poor isnt hard. Having a mind for the poorthats the challenge. Poverty, Inc. This quote from the documentary Poverty, Inc. highlights the reason why so many people are willing to give their money to foreign aid, without necessarily understanding its harmful effects. This quote can also shed some light on the recent embrace of socialism by many millennials. When young people look at the rate of poverty in the U.S. and see that we are not doing as well as some other developed countries, it is easy for them to place this blame on what they believe is capitalism. If capitalism has caused the U.S. to experience this poverty then it logically follows that people today, especially millennials, would embrace socialism instead of capitalism. Given that I am a millennial myself, this makes sense to me. Its clear that we care about these causes and that we are willing to give our time and money. Thats the easy part. We have a heart for the poor. The challenge is having a mind for the poor. Having a mind for the poor may seem like a challenge, but its certainly not impossible. It all begins with a basic understanding of economics. It is not capitalism that makes people poor, but the crony capitalism that creates a two-tiered society. Socialism does not help the poor, but a combination of moral principles and free-market capitalism does. Sam Gregg recently highlighted how free-markets revived West Germanys stagnant socialist economy in 1948. Up until recent political movements, this was rarely debated among the different sides of the political spectrum, especially among the major political parties. Many understood that the power of the free-market was the leading tool used in alleviating poverty. Economics does not change because of current political and social movements. All that changes is the way that people understand economics. What was once understood as free-market capitalism became horribly mistaken for a big government that chooses winners and losers in the economy. Crony capitalism and free-market capitalism are now grouped together as simply capitalism and capitalism has become public enemy number one for millennials and other social justice warriors. Last January, the hashtag #resistcapitalism trended throughout the world on Twitter. Do the people who belong to this movement truly understand what capitalism is? Socialist/Communist/Anti-capitalist history is heroic! A fight for humanity and for this planet! #ResistCapitalism pic.twitter.com/KGnEyLScGK TayGo (@taygogo) January 8, 2016 This tweet using the hashtag #resistcaptialism, claims that Socialist/Communist/Anti-capitalist history is heroic! I cant think of one situation when socialism or communism was heroic. There is something genuinely appealing about belonging to a movement that claims to be for the underdog and against the establishment. Its appealing to belong to the camp that claims to care for the less fortunate and is actually talking about these issues. This is why a previously unknown senator from Vermont was able to start a movement that quickly attracted millions of followers. Everything about his democratic socialism sounds good but none of it makes any economic sense at all. When college students are asked what they like about Bernie Sanders, one student replies with I like socialism! I wonder if she truly knows what socialism is. Or does she know of all the harm that socialism has caused? One phrase that I often hear from millennials is I dont know the economics of socialism, but look, its working in all of the Nordic countries. How can people who know practically nothing about economics and claim to want to help the poor be so quick to embrace an economic system that is responsible for the death of millions of people? Murray Rothbard once said, It is no crime to be ignorant of economics but it is totally irresponsible to have a loud vociferous opinion on economic subjects while remaining in this state of ignorance. We cannot let the ignorance of economics blind us to the most effective ways of bringing about poverty alleviation. Instead, we should use what we know about economics to approach the issue of poverty in a way that has proven to be successful. Before we can begin to talk about helping the poor, not only in our country but all across the world, we need to educate ourselves on the differences between capitalism, cronyism, and socialism. We need to educate ourselves on what works and what doesnt. He is notoriously difficult to impress in the kitchen. But Heston Blumenthal heaped praise on MasterChef Australia contestant Elena Duggan on Thursday night, saying her seafood dish was worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant. The world-famous chef said Elena 'nailed' her orange-inspired 'reef walk' creation which combined prawns, crabs and scallops with seafood broth. Impressed: Heston Blumenthal heaped praise on MasterChef Australia contestant Elena Duggan on Thursday night, saying her seafood dish was worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant After tasting her dish, Heston said: 'She's nailed that. That broth feels like the sea. As the sun goes down, when the tides go down a bit from the rocks. 'These layers of flavours burst and then you've got in the background this really soft richness with the roasted shellfish. 'This dish, it's something really special. It's the best dish I've had all week. It's fit for a Michelin-starred restaurant.' Relief: Elena Duggan (pictured) was seen smiling after she received the positive feedback Elena, who grew up in Noosa, Queensland, told the judges the dish was inspired by beach walks with her sister in their teenage years. 'We would stay out on the reef as long as we could until dinnertime, just playing. I hope that she would like eating this dish,' she told the Channel 10 show. The seven contestants in the elimination round were tasked to creative an inventive dish each using a different colour of the rainbow as inspiration. Heather Day was sent home after her lemon delicious dessert was branded Lemon disastrous by judge Gary Mehigan. Big fan: After tasting her dish, Heston said: 'She's nailed that. That broth feels like the sea. As the sun goes down, when the tides go down a bit from the rocks 'It's fit for a Michelin-starred restaurant': The orange-inspired 'reef walk' creation combined prawns, crabs and scallops with seafood broth Emotional moment: Elena started crying after she was told her dish was Michelin-star worthy Chloe Bowles also narrowly missed out on elimination after her indigo-inspired dark night dessert 'failed to meet the brief'. But Theresa Visintin impressed the judges with her stunning 'toadstool' dessert with a berry parfait, sponge and ganache stem and a salted praline for the grass. Earlier in the episode she had a minor disaster when she accidentally poured liquid nitrogen into her raspberry parfait. 'I have my mould in the tray and I pour a little bit around. Oh, that's inside it! Oh, that's no good,' she said. Creative: Theresa Visintin impressed the judges with her stunning 'toadstool' dessert with a berry parfait, sponge and ganache stem and a salted praline for the grass She pulled it together: Earlier in the episode, Theresa had a minor disaster when she accidentally poured liquid nitrogen into her raspberry parfait 'I accidentally spill the liquid nitrogen into my parfait and it just ruins everything. I'm in a lot of trouble now. These domes have to be perfect. They are the top of my mushroom cap.' But Theresa pulled it together to produce a stunning dish. Heston told her: 'Every single thing on that plate serves a purpose and supports everything else on the plate, and I love the fact that the level of sweetness it leaves - absolutely bang-on.' He spoke to the contestants about the importance of colour in cooking, saying it can affect the expectation of taste. He said: 'In fact, we're currently working with one of the top theatrical lighting specialists in the world on the effect of light on the colour of food. 'You can accentuate, for example, the herby, floral notes in a dish if you really pump up those bright colours. 'So we have an expectation from green for certain things - it shows vibrancy and freshness.' Disappointed: Heather Day was eliminated from MasterChef Australia on Thursday after failing to take the judges' concerns on board during Heston Blumenthal's colour challenge Disaster: Her yellow-inspired dessert, which combined lemon, coffee and hazelnuts, collapsed into a mess on the plate and was branded 'lemon disastrous' by judge Gary Mehigan She's known for her buxom figure and eye-popping cleavage. And Casey Batchelor had no problem flaunting her physique as she celebrated the launch of own teeth whitening product Warpaint at Champneys Health Resort in Hertfordshire on Wednesday The 31-year-old model radiated in a figure-hugging floral number which plunged heavily down the middle- proving difficult to contain her ample assets. Scroll down for video Flower power: Casey Batchelor, 31, flaunted her busty physique in a floral number as she celebrated the launch of own teeth whitening product Warpaint at Champneys Health Resort in Hertfordshire on Thursday Cinching her in at the waist, the number further emphasised her plentiful front, before going on to fall at a midi length. The blue and white floral printed design added a ladylike element to the attire, which was further accentuated by a pair of beige stilettos. Ensuring all eyes were on her famed physique, she tied her brunette tresses up in to a stunning up do, while a few strands broke free to frame her face. Eyes up here! The model radiated in a figure-hugging dress which plunged heavily down the middle- proving difficult to contain her ample assets Hugging her in all the right places: Cinching her in at the waist, the number further emphasised her plentiful front, before going on to fall at a midi length Details: A delicate silver chain rested upon her collarbone as she struck a variety of smiley poses Lovely: The blue and white floral printed design added a ladylike element to the attire The former Celebrity Big Brother star's eye were smoked to perfection, while her lively pout featured a slick of nude gloss and enhanced her chiselled cheekbones. Casey obviously didn't mind flashing her dazzling white smile, which is the outcome of using her Warpaint product, which promotes natural and organic ingredients. Helping her celebrate was her pal Caprice Bourret who stunned in a plunging purple bandage number. Striking a fierce pose, she allowed a pair of large silver hoops to frame her stunning make-up application. Glam gals: Helping her celebrate her tooth-whitening product was her pal Caprice Bourret Sexy: The businesswoman stunned in a plunging purple bandage number Sizzler: The blonde locks were blow-dried to perfection while a silver chain dangled down her front Beauty icon: A pair of large silver hoop earrings framed her face and her face boasted subtle make-up application Bevy of beauties: Joining Casey and Caprice were (L-R) Cally Jane Beech, Jasmin Walia and Imogen Thomas Others who attended the event was Desi Rascals star Jasmin Walia, Imogen Thomas and Love Island's Cally Jane Beech. Candice and Casey also spent time together earlier on in the day where they enjoyed a splash in the venue's jacuzzi. Casey showcased her voluptuous cleavage in a patterned bikini as she joined Caprice, 44, for an interview about Warpaint. Hometown hotties: Former TOWIE star Jasmin looked lovely in an off-the-shoulder black and white number as she accompanied fellow Essex beauty Casey Knowing what works: She looked sensational in the monochrome number which showed off her slim figure Smitten: Love Island's Cally Jane Beech arrived on the arms of her beau Luis Morrison Edgy stunner: The brunette beauty flashed a peek of her abs and teased her slim legs in a sheer lace white skirt Keeping it simple: Imogen Thomas arrived in a summery light blue shirt dress Casey put her enviable curves on display in the zig zag patterned, halterneck number as she relaxed in the water. The Essex girl was given a glamorous updo and a heavy smoky eye for the occasion, and wore a pendant necklace around her neck. Caprice was giving her pal a serious run for her money in a seriously sexy swimsuit with chain detailing on the straps. Busty beauty: Casey was showcasing her ample cleavage in a patterned bikini at a photocall for Warpaint on Wednesday Glamorous: Caprice was giving her pal a serious run for her money in a seriously sexy swimsuit with chain detailing on the straps Gal pals: Casey put her enviable curves on display in the zig zag patterned, halterneck number as she relaxed in the water Looking good: The Essex girl was given a glamorous updo and a heavy smoky eye for the occasion, and wore a pendant necklace around her neck The cut-out number drew attention to her flat stomach and slender waist, and she added a touch of bling thanks to large hoop earrings. The pair were getting on like a house on fire, chatting in the jacuzzi before wrapping up in towelling robes. Casey has recently been working hard on maintaining her fitness, often taking to her social media accounts to share evidence of her progress with her plethora of followers. In great shape: Caprice's cut-out number drew attention to her flat stomach and slender waist, and she added a touch of bling thanks to large hoop earrings Getting the giggles: The 44-year-old model was in high spirits as she splashed around in the jacuzzi Back on our screens: Casey has had a busy schedule of late, getting in front of cameras to shoot her new reality show The Big Fish Off The star has had a busy schedule of late, getting in front of cameras to shoot her new reality show The Big Fish Off. Meanwhile, Carprice recently hit the headlines when she revealed she was too scared to leave her London home unaccompanied after a terrifying encounter with a gang of youths. The Californian stunner, 44, was walking in London with her sons Jett and Jax, two, recently when she was threatened by the youngsters. Scary encounter: Meanwhile, Caprice recently hit the headlines when she revealed she was too scared to leave her London home unaccompanied after a terrifying encounter with a gang of youths Toned: Casey has recently been working hard on maintaining her fitness, often taking to her social media accounts to share evidence of her progress with her plethora of followers She said during an appearance on Loose Women: 'These three kids surrounded me. The main one was starring at me. I didn't know what they were saying because they were speaking in a different language. 'I didn't know if they wanted the children or me. I froze. I thought what if they attack me? All I could think about is the children. Is this stroller gonna go in the canal and they drown?' Fortunately, the gang were interrupted by another couple walking along the canal, leaving a relieved Caprice breaking down in tears. Touch of glamour: Despite the poolside shoot, Casey was decked out in silver jewellery Cosying up: The models and TV personalities wrapped up in towelling robes Jodie Marsh was the victim of an embarrassing make-up faux pas during an appearance on This Morning on Thursday. The glamour model and fitness enthusiast sat on the couch opposite Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield to discuss her decision to give up sex forever, but viewers were incredibly distracted by the dark red lipstick smudged across her teeth. Jodie, 37, was unaware of her cosmetic fail, which was made all the more obvious thanks to the deep vermillion shade on her bright white teeth. Scroll down for video Oh no! Jodie Marsh appeared on This Morning on Thursday and embarrassingly had red lipstick smeared across her teeth 'Bad girl code!' Viewers slammed host Holly Willoughby for not telling Jodie her make-up faux pas during the live interview And, as viewers of the popular ITV daytime show took to Twitter to share their amusement at the lipstick error, others slammed Holly for not letting her know and allowing her to continue speaking without sorting herself out. One This Morning viewer, @kirstyj19, accused the blonde presenter, 35, of breaking the 'girl code' by staying silent despite the obvious error. 'Bad girl code of @hollywills not telling @JodieMarsh she had lipstick on her teeth #girlcode #thismorning,' she wrote. Others mimicked this sentiment, with @winter1856 adding: '@JodieMarsh @itvthismorning Holly should have told you that you had lipstick all over your teeth. Mean Holly.' You can't miss it: The 37-year-old model sported a deep vermillion shade of lipstick, much of which found itself spread across her pearly white teeth Outrage: Fans at home were irked by 'mean' Holly for not telling Jodie, allowing her to continue the interview while unaware of the lipstick on her teeth 'Poor Jodie marsh! Maybe Holly could've told her she had lipstick all over her teeth before the interview ended #jodiemarsh #thismorningitv,' @AmyHasson fumed. 'Someone so common and trash on tv. She's got nothing to say. Holly you should have told her about lipstick,' pitched in @hadenjonah, who - despite not seemingly being a fan of Jodie - thought that Holly should have made her aware of the lipstick fail. Jodie fan @xGrslack commented: '@JodieMarsh I no you looked so beauts and I was thinking come on Holly tell her bless ya you still looked lovely babe x.' Hilarity: However, many people just found the incident amusing and a distraction from the real topic of Jodie's interview Others watching at home found it all rather amusing, with many of them sharing how much they enjoyed the chat because of the silly faux pas. Tweeted @AussieKelly joked: 'Phil & Holly did very well not to laugh at Jodie Marsh. Started with bright white teeth & ended with lipstick for top teeth. #thismorning.' 'The amount of lipstick on Jodie marsh's teeth lol I thought she had purple braces on #thismorning,' @missANPPeterson added. All in good humour: After the show, Jodie tweeted that 'no on told me about the lipstick on teeth' @Emrwoody was amused as she wrote: 'When Jodie marsh has lipstick all over her teeth on this morning #thismorningitv.' Still, Jodie herself found the whole situation funny after she left the TV studios and discovered her mishap. The good-natured star wrote on Twitter: 'Aw no one told me about lipstick on teeth. Never mind. It's only a fun chat show! Hope you all enjoyed X X X.' Eek: The dark shade spread across her gnashers was incredibly noticeable Not fair? Holly, 35, conducted the interview live on TV with Phillip Schofield, 54 Major fail: The interview went on for minutes without anybody altering Jodie to the cringey error Meanwhile, unlucky-in-love Jodie - who looked pretty with her peroxide locks styled in a half-braided 'do and a blouse layered under dungarees - appeared on the show to discuss her determination to have a baby with a sperm donor after her marriage to James Placido failed. The British model previously revealed her ambition of becoming a mother and although she put those plans on hold while she married her now-estranged husband James Jodie revealed she remains intent on having a child. The star also said she is proudly celibate once again, writing on Instagram: 'I may have sex appeal but I don't do SEX (sic).' Jodie said she is relishing not having sex for a sustained period of time. Opening up: Jodie appeared on This Morning to discuss her personal life, her love of being single following her recent marriage split and her choice to use a sperm donor to have kids That's better! After the show, Jodie posed for snaps and kept her lips shut while smiling She explained: 'I'm on 'This Morning' on ITV ... and I'll be talking about why being celibate is amazing, why I've been put off sex, why I don't need a man and why I'll be having a sperm donor baby.' And, while on the programme, she explained: 'I started to respect myself so much more than I ever have in my life - it gives you a self worth that only you can give you. 'Where guys would treat you like a sex object, it weeded out the good guys from the bad boys.' She went on, explaining her choice to use a sperm donor to have kids: 'Before I got married last year, I was looking into sperm donation because I realised that time is ticking and there are limited options available now. 'I'd done my research and I was going to Denmark because it's anonymous and then I met James, thought I was in love, and he convinced me that I didn't need it any more. 'I'd done my research': Jodie revealed she planned to use a sperm donor before she married her now-estranged husband James Placido Lovely: Jodie looked pretty - despite the lipstick/tooth error - in a pair of dungarees worn with a nude and red blouse, her blonde locks half-braided 'I'm using the British Surrogacy Centre, in America. It depends how much money a channel might offer,' she revealed, also admitting that she has been told she has a low egg count and it might be difficult to conceive. Holly - who has been married to husband Dan Baldwin for nearly 10 years, and has three children with him agreed with Jodie's plans. Holly said: 'If I hadn't been lucky enough to meet Dan and if I'd got to a certain age, I always said I would have done it by myself. ' Jodie also revealed how happy she is about being single, saying: 'I'm so happy on my own, I've never been happier. I love my life, I have a really good life. Everything is where I want it to be. Admission: Holly - who has been married to husband Dan Baldwin for nearly 10 years, and has three children with him agreed with Jodie's plans Celibate: Following her split from husband James, Jodie has promised to remain celibate for five years 'I have exhausted partners, I can't keep putting myself out there to expect love to get it thrown back at me. Anyone that knows me properly, knows that I don't want a bad boy, I want a decent guy.' Jodie has previously abstained from sex for as long as four years and said it was 'the best thing' she has ever done. And earlier this month, Jodie revealed she is planning to be celibate for five years. Jodie and James split after just eight months of marriage in April and she has subsequently imposed a lengthy bedroom ban on herself. However, she also insisted giving up sex doesn't mean she'll be a 'good girl' and will still tease her fans with saucy images. He was spotted on Tuesday cutting a very casual figure as he arrived in Japan to promote his latest film, Independence Day: Resurgence. And now that Liam Hemsworth appears to have had some time to settle in, he has upped the ante with his outfit choices. The 26-year-old was spotted in Tokyo on Thursday looking handsome in a sleek charcoal-coloured suit. Scroll down for video Polished! Liam Hemsworth put on a dapper display in a charcoal-coloured suit and a crisp white shirt His sandy locks were perfectly tousled and he left the first few buttons of his crisp white shirt open at the collar. Liam looked his usual dapper self as he attended the promotional event in Minato, Tokyo flashing his wide smile for fans and answering questions. He was joined on stage by his Independence Day co-star Jeff Goldblum, and the pair tried their hand at decorating a Japanese daruma doll. Scrubbed up nicely! The 26-year-old is currently in Japan promoting his new film, Independence Day: Resurgence Focused: Liam has been busy promoting the film, which is directed by Roland Emmerich Jeff was sporting a slightly more casual ensemble, wearing a pair of beige chinos, an orange T-shirt and a black leather jacket. The actor, who loves the addition of a hat to any outfit, made sure to don one for the occasion, as well as his pair of statement black-rimmed glasses. Their co-star Maika Monroe and the film's director Roland Emmerich joined the two actors at the event and Japanese actor Tatsuya Fujiwara posed for photos with the stars of the highly-anticipated film. Fans galore: The popular actor seemed happy to be in Tokyo, and smiled and waved at his fans Liam spoke to GQ earlier this month about his relationship with former flame Miley Cyrus, with whom he recently reignited his romance. Regarding the current state of their relationship, he told the publication: 'People will figure it out, they already have...They're not dumb.' Of dating Miley, Liam told GQ that he tries not to concern himself with what other people think. 'I guess when I feel something, then I just feel it and I go for it,' he said. All dressed up: His sandy locks were perfectly tousled and he left the first few buttons of his crisp white shirt open at the collar Revealing all: The actor all but confirmed his relationship with Miley Cyrus is back on, in an interview with GQ magazine earlier this month 'I make my decisions about what's going to make me happy, what I think is right and what I want to do - and I don't worry too much outside of that', he told them. Speculation regarding Liam and Miley has been going into overdrive during the last few months, fuelled by the fact that Miley was spotted wearing the engagement ring Liam bought her in 2013. The couple were spotted at Falls Festival in Byron Bay and Miley is said to have welcomed in 2016 at a party at Liam's brother Chris and wife Elsa Pataky's house. More recently, Miley accompanied Liam home to Australia in April, during which time the two were spotted out and about on various laid-back outings as they soaked up the Australian sun. Teamwork: Liam was joined on stage by his co-star Jeff Goldblum, and the two tried their hand at decorating a Japanese daruma doll He coincidentally revealed Richie Strahan has the new Bachelor hours before the official announcement earlier in the year. And on Thursday Michael Turnbull, 35, revealed his winner prediction moments after Channel 10 officially revealed the line-up of 22 beauties. 'I know Richie. I know the type of girls he typically likes,' the reality star told Daily Mail Australia. Scroll down for video Is he onto a winner? Michael Turnbull, 35, revealed his winner prediction for the upcoming Bachelor series moments after Channel 10 officially revealed all 22 beauties He continued: 'I know he likes blondes and I know he likes tall, fit girls. Tiffany looks tall and fit. 'I think she is going to win,' the former real estate agent said. Indeed Tiffany is a 29-year-old training administrator from Western Australia, the same state as 30-year-old Richie. Close friend: Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, he said: 'I know the type of girls he typically like...He likes blondes and I know he likes tall, fit girls. Tiffany looks tall and fit' The attractive blonde has a super toned figure and is seen showing off her impressive six-pack in the television series promotional photo. 'I think she has better abs than Richie. Richie is going to have to pick up his ab game,' Michael joked to Daily Mail Australia. The Bachelorette runner-up added that he believes Megan, 27 and Keira, 29, will also make the final selection on the show. Are they the one? Tiffany (L) is a 29-year-old training administrator from Western Australia. Michael also predicted 27-year-old Megan (R) will be runner-up Megan is also from Western Australia and is a health promotions officer while Keira has settled in New South Wales with a career as an account manager. Joining the group of ladies is 34-year-old Marja who is a yoga instructor in New South Wales and project manager Laura, 24, from Victoria. Also hoping to win over Richie's heart is business development manager Aimee, 31, from Victoria and Janey, 27, from Queensland who works as a childrens entertainer. Meet the girls: Channel 10 released the official photo of the 22 beauties on Thursday night Venue manager, Alex, 24 from Victoria is also in the running, along with New South Wales event coordinator Eliza, 31. In the new advertisement for the show, Richie is seen welcoming the ladies one by one as they exit the car. In the piece to camera, Keria asked: 'What the hell have I gotten myself into?' Channel 10 are yet to announce an official debut date for The Bachelor Australia. She enjoys making others laugh. But on Thursday, the tables were turned on Sophie Monk as the radio presenter became the butt of the joke. While co-hosting KIIS FM's Winter Fling show alongside Matty Acton, the Gold Coast native was left seething after getting pranked. Scroll down for video Furious: Sophie Monk was left seething after being pranked on KIIS FM on Thursday In a sneak peak video of the prank, which plays out in full tomorrow, Sophie was heard slamming her colleagues before flipping the bird. 'This is killing me. You guys are nasty and I hate you all. Suck a d***!' she said. Matty took to Instagram to gloat while taunting his co-host, in a video that suggests that the prank could mark 'the most humiliating moment in [her] career.' Humiliating: The media personality covered her eyes in shame after the prank 'We gotcha gooooood,' he wrote alongside a clip directing his followers to tune in to find out what happened. The prank comes just days after the model returned to airwaves alongside Matty as part of KIIS FM's 'Winter fling' series. 'What happened to me is playing out tomorrow! It's SO $?!& mean! You guys are absolute pricks!!! Best prank ever. #TheFling @mattyacton @KIIS1065 @KIIS1011,' she captioned the video. The culprits: The model let it be known that she was not happy about the joke although she managed to laugh it off The blonde beauty had a chuckle of her own while bringing the laughs to fans on Tuesday, when she parodied Kanye West's controversial new Famous music video. Wearing only gold jewellery with a white bed sheet covering her chest, a sleeping Sophie was surrounded by doll versions of the likes of Kanye and his wife Kim Kardashian. With Kanye's latest track blaring in the background, the camera pans to a series of lifeless dolls that are supposed to also represent Harry Styles, Sia and Sophie's best friend, Kelly Osbourne. Famous guests: Sophie and Matty recently spoke to Keith Urban on their KIIS Winter Fling show The Australia's Got Talent judge is comfortably wedged between a snoring Kanye and Kim when suddenly, her KIIS FM co-host, Matty Acton, emerges. 'Alright, where do you guys want me?' a robe-clad Matty asks to which a puzzled Sophie replies: 'Matty what are you doing?' He then makes a swift exit as the video ends. 'In bed with Kanye for his new music video @kellyosbourne #Thefling @kiis1065 @kiis1011 6-9am with @mattyacton,' she captioned the spoof video. He shocked fans with frightening footage of him flipping over in a Hemi Under Glass during a stunt gone wrong for his show Jay Leno's Garage. But just days later the 66-year-old was spotted riding a motorcycle at his garage in the San Fernando Valley. It seemed Jay was left unfazed following the crash, despite the jarring footage that aired on his CNBC series. Scroll down for video Back at it! Jay Leno looked unfazed as he was spotted riding a motorcycle at his garage in Burbank, California on Wednesday, following the release of footage of a car crash the occurred while filming his CNBC series Jay was seen riding his motorcycle at his Big Dog Garage in Burbank, California, where he films his show. He was dressed in a long-sleeved, denim button down, which he sported with the sleeves rolled up to just past his elbows. The former Tonight Show host teamed that with a pair of coordinating, light wash jeans, accessorizing with a black leather belt. Laid-back: The former late night host sported a denim button down coupled with a coordinating pair of light wash jeans and a black leather belt Off they go! The incident occurred as the star was showing off a trick in a Hemi Under Glass - driven by famous, 80-year-old stunt driver Bob Riggles - for a segment on Jay Leno's Garage He finished off his look with a pair of black sneakers, and was spotted wearing a black and red helmet as he took off on the motorcycle. The helmet was a smart choice after a recent segment of his series featured footage of the star flipping over in a Hemi Under Glass. He had joined 80-year-old, legendary stunt driver Bob Riggle, as they were attempting to show off a drag racing car that has the engine in the back, allowing the front two wheels of the car to lift off of the ground. Bracing themselves: The car had lifted up on two wheels safely, but then after returning to four wheels something went amiss Frustrated: Bob was clearly upset that the trick hadn't gone smoothly, as he could be seen struggling to right the vehicle, but fortunately neither men were hurt The incident occurred in Irwindale Speedway in California as Bob drove, with the car flipping after it returned to four wheels, following the two-wheel demonstration. In the video, a safety worker can be seen rushing over to the car, asking the men their name, age, and what track they were at to make sure they were not hurt. After Bob gave his answers, Jay responded in kind, joking: 'My name is Bob Riggle and Im 80 and Im at Irwindale.' Unfazed: Jay didn't seem bothered by the incident, cheerfully telling producers: 'It doesn't get more exciting than that!' On to the next one: New episodes of Jay Leno's Garage can be seen Wednesdays on CNBC at 10pm Jay's joke had suggested as much, but once the men got out of the car they revealed that, fortunately, neither had been injured in the crash. 'It doesn't get more exciting than that!' Jay gushed, after a producer asked him if he was okay following the accident. She's been busy filming her hit HBO show Girls around New York City in recent weeks. But Allison Williams enjoyed some down time as she stopped by Broadway musical The Color Purple on Wednesday. The actress was all smiles as she chatted with the stars of the show - which recently won a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical - including British star Cynthia Erivo and actor Heather Headley. Scroll down for video Broadway style: Allison Williams beamed as she caught up with The Color Purple stars Heather Headley, left, and Cynthia Erivo backstage at The Jacobs Theatre on Wednesday The actors all appeared to be in great spirits as they chatted backstage at The Jacobs Theatre. The Girls actress, 28, wore a crisp white dress and matching white sandals as she attended the show, which is executive produced by Oprah Winfrey. Allison's dress featured a sporty collar, fitted waist and a full skirt with front pockets, which hit at the knees. She left her brunette hair down, added dark pink lipstick and matching white sandals. Musical fan: The Girls star wore a sporty white dress as she chatted with the Tony Award winners. London-born Cynthia, right, just won Best Actress in a Musical earlier this month Big fan: The 28-year-old was all smiles as she chatted with The Color Purple actors Carrie Compere and Kyle Scatliffe Tony Award winner Heather, 41, who has stepped into Jennifer Hudson's shoes on the show, wore a white V-neck shirt and bright red capris. London-born actress Cynthia, 29, - who won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a musical earlier this month for her role as lead Celie - looked stylish in a flowing navy top and high waisted denim trousers. Also catching up with Allison at the show were cast members Carrie Compere and Kyle Scatliffe. Relaxed style: The Girls star wore a summery white frock while Kyle - who plays Harpo in the show - went for a slim grey hoodie Carrie, who plays one of the gossipy church ladies, opted for an all-black look and wore her hair in curls over her shoulders. Kyle, who plays Harpo in the show, also went for a casual look in a slim grey hoodie and blue jeans. Allison, whose father is MSNBC journalist Brian Williams, is married to College Humor co-founder Ricky Van Veen, 35. She is currently taking the world by storm with her striking looks. And on Tuesday Australian transgender model Andreja Pejic paraded a stunning off-the-shoulder gown as she hosted A Dinner for Etro, La Sirena in New York. At the event the 24-year-old stunned in the blue patterned garment which fell loosely over her slender frame before finishing at her ankles. Twirling around: Australian transgender model Andreja Pejic paraded in a stunning off-the-shoulder gown on Thursday as she hosted A Dinner for Etro, La Sirena in New York She highlighted her slender waistline as she tied a folded belt tightly around her torso. The runway model accessorised her flawless look with a pair of beige strappy heels and a chunky silver necklace. Andreja opted for a simple hair-do, wearing her blonde locks out and styled with a natural wave. Summer inspired: At the event the 24-year-old (R) slipped into the blue patterned garment which fell loosely over her slender frame Get the look: The runway model (R) accessorised her flawless look with a pair of beige strappy heels and a chunky silver necklace She also kept her makeup simple as she leant towards a nude-base that included a clear lip-gloss and a light layer of black mascara. Born in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Andreja and her family immigrated to Melbourne as political refugees when she was eight years old in 2000. She was scouted at age 16 while working at McDonald's and began making a name for herself as an androgynous model, showcasing both male and female designs. Simple: Andreja opted for a simple hair-do, wearing her blonde locks out and styled with a natural wave Pure beauty: The beauty (R) also kept her makeup simple as she leant towards a nude-base that included a clear lip-gloss and a light layer of black mascara In 2014, Andreja made the transition to female and has since forged a successful modelling career. She became the first openly transgender model to be profiled by Vogue in May last year and is well known in the industry as the first transgender women to be named as the face of a major cosmetics brand Make Up For Ever. In February last year, Andreja made her triumphant debut on the catwalk as a woman following a year spent undergoing a series of gender reassignment procedures. She recently published a book on staying healthy. And Kate Hudson showed off the results of her fitness regime as she shared an artsy nude photo on Instagram on Thursday. The actress, 37, bares her derriere as she stands silhouetted in front of a window in the throwback image. Scroll down for video Body confident: Actress Kate Hudson posted a naked throwback photo of herself baring all before a large window on Instagram on Thursday The mother-of-two lifts her arm into the air and rests a hand on her hip in the snap, which was taken by photographer Darren Ankenman. The Almost Famous star left her long blonde hair down as she posed beside a 'Love' sign. Kate added hashtags for Throwback Thursday, as well as #LOVE, #AlmostFriday and #PrettyHappy. It's not the first time the body-confident star has appeared in cheeky snaps on Instagram. Cheeky: Kate's stylist Sophie Lopez shared another nude snap of the star resting in a bubble bath earlier this year In January, her stylist Sophie Lopez posted a polaroid photo of Kate baring her bottom while lounging in a bubble bath, prompting the movie star to joke she was going to fire her. Kate also recently published her guide to healthy living, Pretty Happy, which hit The New York Times bestseller list. The fitness enthusiast, whose mother is Goldie Hawn, also runs her own line of workout wear, Fabletics. Kate, who will next be seen in upcoming film Deepwater Horizon, toldSelf Magazine earlier this year that she likes to mix up her exercise regime and believes a balanced mindset is key to staying fit. She rotates between pilates, outdoor exercise, spin class and yoga, and believes women should celebrate their bodies, she said. 'Weve been programmed to feel like were under this great obligation as women to look and be a certain way,' she told Self. 'And thats not our fault. Thats what culture and society have gifted us as women. Thank you but no thank you.' Kate, who recently dated Nick Jonas, is mom to two sons: twelve-year-old Ryder (with ex-husband Chris Robinson) and four-year-old Bingham (with ex-fiance Matt Bellamy). He's reportedly seeking joint custody of son Freddie with ex-girlfriend Brianna Jungwirth. And TMZ reports that Louis Tomlinson, 24, is said to have started the proceedings over claims Brianna is keeping his son away because she doesn't want him around his new girlfriend, Danielle Campbell. The website claims that Brianna has complained of their five-month-old son 'smelling like perfume', suggesting to her that Freddie has spent time around the former Disney star. Scroll down for video Stuck in the middle: Louis Tomlinson has reportedly sought joint custody of his five-month-old son Freddie as his former flame has reportedly kept him away because of his new girlfriend Danielle Campbell (pictured) Brianna is also said to have concerns over the security of herself and her child and believes Danielle is 'nothing more than a crazed fan who now knows her home address and gate security code.' The starlet will also reportedly be objecting to joint custody if Louis hires a nanny as that is not 'true parenting.' Meanwhile, Louis is said to believe his ex's fears have been caused by jealously. A representative for Louis declined to comment when contacted by MailOnline. Concerned: Briana and Louis welcomed their son Freddie five months ago, but she is reportedly concerned about her son being around his new girlfriend Danielle Campbell Momma's boy: Briana shared this cute snap of herself with Freddie on May 7 Sources close to the British star claim that Briana has been 'inconsistent' when it comes to allowing Louis time with Freddie and he wants equal access. The website said that he will seek joint physical and legal custody of Freddie and also a stipulation that the child should spend equal time with his mom and his dad in a 50-50 split. Louis has been renting a $1 million home for Briana, 23, in Calabasas, just outside of LA, and is rumored to be paying her around $15,000 a month in child support. On June 19, he celebrated his first Father's Day as a dad, posting a sweet photo of his hand holding his son's hand. Dad rights: Louis , seen pushing baby son Freddie in a stroller in LA in April, is said to be heading to court to seek joint physical and legal custody of the five-month-old after issues with his ex over access Louis confirmed last fall that LA stylist Briana was pregnant with his child and Freddie was born in January. He is currently dating actress and Disney star Danielle Campbell, 21. The relationship between Louis and Briana appeared to have soured of late with the former lovers meeting on neutral ground last month for a handover of their baby. Dotes on him: Louis posted this heartfelt note and sweet image to his Instagram on June 19 as he celebrated his first Father's Day as a dad The meeting in a hotel parking lot came after Briana reportedly banned the musician from her house. In February, it was reported that the pair had reached a 'temporary custody settlement,' in which it is said to have been specified that Louis could only visit Freddie at Briana's LA home, alone. Since then, the 1D star has been seen spending time with son Freddie in the company of girlfriend Danielle as well as his own mother mum Johannah Deakin, his stepdad Dan and his extended family. Her stunning red carpet looks have long captivated the general public. But Elizabeth Olsen looked rather ordinary during a recent trip to Whole Foods Market in West Hollywood, blending in among fellow shoppers on Wednesday afternoon. Nonetheless, the 27-year-old actress' natural beauty couldn't help but catch the attention of onlookers as she sported a casually chic ensemble perfect for cooling down in the scorching Los Angeles heat. Scroll down for video Just another day: Elizabeth Olsen looked rather ordinary during a recent trip to Whole Foods Market in West Hollywood, blending in among fellow shoppers on Wednesday afternoon The Captain America: Civil War star played up her long legs in a pair of loose-fitting cut-off shorts that barely peaked out from underneath her lace-trimmed tunic. Olsen cinched her svelte waist with a black cardigan tied in a knot, completing the daytime-appropriate look with a pair of leather criss-cross sandals. Ever conscious of the beating sun, Elisabeth sported a wide-brimmed Panama hat and effortlessly cool shades as she leisurely strolled into the grocery store with an eco-friendly tote bag in hand. On the move: The Captain America: Civil War star played up her long legs in a pair of loose-fitting cut-off shorts that barely peaked out from underneath her lace-trimmed tunic Never not chic: Ever conscious of the beating sun, Elisabeth sported a wide-brimmed Panama hat and effortlessly cool shades as she leisurely strolled into the grocery store with an eco-friendly tote bag in hand The younger sister of twins Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen has had a particularly busy year, most recently as the hypnosis-inclined hero Scarlet Witch in Marvel's Avengers: Age of Ultron and Captain America: Civil War. When asked if the blonde beauty would ever consider starring in her own solo spin-off with the character, she told The Huffington Post there's one condition. 'I wouldnt just do it just to do it,' Olsen explained. Itd have to make sense for how it advances in the world. But Id be open to talking about it. Id never say no to just an idea.' Cheery gal: The actress sure does enjoy flaunting her slender legs, this time at the 2016 Vueve Clicquote Polo Classic in June Emma Stone showed her love and support at the Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates movie premiere after party, which starred Anna Kendrick, Zac Efron, Aubrey Plaza, and Adam DeVine. The 27-year-old stunner wowed in a sleeveless black dress at the Hollywood hotspot, 33 Taps Bar, as she caught up with friend and actress Sugar Lyn Beard. Scroll down for video Unexpected guest! Emma Stone enjoyed herself at the after party for Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates movie premiere on Wednesday night with actress Sugar Lyn Beard The Amazing Spider-Man actress accessorized her fitted black dress with a Gucci cross-body purse adorned with a gold chain. Her matching color, closed-toe shoes strapped around her ankles, and she opted for a statement-making rope chain with a dangling red heart, which jazzed up her dress. Emma's raging red locks were tied back, showing off her radiant face. She went for a light smokey eye, and a light red lip. Hollywood hotties: The Aloha star wore a tight black dress and a Gucci cross-body purse while her Aloha co-star wowed in a plunging flirty dress La La Land: The star of Damien Chazelle's upcoming La La Land movie was in her own world sipping on cocktails and enjoying the night festivities The Aloha actress seemed to enjoy her time with Canadian actress and Aloha co-star. Sugar Lynn looked ravishing in a plunging, dark olive green dress that showed off her ample cleavage and toned pins. The 50/50 star wore a criss-cross body necklace and donned a loosely curled hairstyle. Time to leave! InStyle attended the event and reported that the red-haired beauty was seen shimmying to Eminem's Lose Yourself on the dance floor InStyle reported the red-haired beauty sipped on cocktails over some conversation with Sugar Lynn and was later seen shimmying to Eminem's live rendition of Lose Yourself. E! News, who was also at the Fiji-themed party, witnessed a huge table set up at the party with red Solo cups for anyone to play beer pong. Later on in the evening, Emma was ushered out by her male friend who looked smart in a fitted, maroon suit as the Easy A actress trailed behind him, holding his hand and beaming widely. Gushing Emma! The 27-year-old held hands with her male friends as she walked behind him on Hollywood Blvd Emma will reunite with Crazy, Stupid, Love co-star Ryan Gosling in the musical romance, La La Land, directed by Whiplash's Damien Chazelle. It opens the Venice Film Festival on August 31st. Additionally, the Superbad actress is slated to star in two films set to open in 2017; Battle of the Sexes and The Croods 2. She was also announced to star as the titular villain in Disney's Cruella, which has yet to have an opening date, and in talks to star in an Agatha Christie film headed by Paramount. She's had a troubled past year following two arrests and trips to rehab. But on Tuesday, Kim Richards looked radiant as she was seen in Beverly Hills sporting a head-to-toe white ensemble. The 51-year old TV personality flaunted her legs in a pair of skinny white jeans and a long white top with very colorful and extravagant flower patterns. The blues is gone? Kim Richards looked as radiant as ever as she was seen in Beverly Hills wearing a head-to-toe white ensemble on Tuesday The former child actress wore her jeans cuffed pretty irregularly, donning one single roll on one leg and one long roll on the other. The Bravo star rounded off her daytime ensemble with a set of slip on nude sneakers. Kim kept her trademark blonde tresses loose and added some volume and texture by pulling back her bangs which she pinned neatly on top of her head. Give me some white! The 51-year old TV personality flaunted her legs in a pair of skinny white jeans and a long white top with very colorful and extravagant flower patterns The make-up free star added some sparkle to her white look choosing a set of multicolored beaded bracelets. She also had on a white prayer bead necklace which she paired with a black choker. Kim shielded her eyes from the hot Los Angeles sun with a pair of fashion-forward aviator shades. The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills cast member took to Instagram on Tuesday to share her newly found nirvana. The snap shows a wisdom quote, which she captioned: 'This has taken me some time... But I have arrived at this place called "PEACE".' Flowing with the spiritual vibes: The former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills cast member took to Instagram on Tuesday to share her newly found nirvana After production wrapped on Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills in early 2015, Kim was arrested with public intoxication, resisting arrest and battery after she allegedly kicked a police officer at the Beverly Hills Hotel's Polo Lounge. But it looks like she has finally found some inner strength by spending more time with her four children. She has two with ex-husband Gregg Davis: Whitney, 26, and Chad 24, and she also has Brooke, 30, and Kimberly, 20, from other relationships. Mom and daughter time: The actress took to Instagram again on Sunday sharing a picture of herself cradling her daughter Brooke Wiederhorn's growing baby bump The actress took to Instagram again on Sunday sharing a picture of herself cradling her daughter Brooke Wiederhorn's growing baby bump. Last week she shared another snap where she is being hugged by her son, Chad, adding the caption: 'Me & My boy @chaddyboy91 I love you so much.' She's a strikingly beautiful model but even Elsa Hosk has her bad habits. The 27-year-old Victoria's Secret Angel enjoyed a cheeky cigarette on Wednesday during a leisurely stroll around the Tribeca neighbourhood of New York. Sporting a pretty black prairie-style dress with embroidered dots, the Swedish born star looked slender and sophisticated. Scroll down for video Model behaviour: Elsa Hosk was spotted out in Tribeca, New York on Wednesday enjoying a nicotine fix The 5ft 10in stunner teamed it with stylish beige and black flats and carried a red quilted Chanel bag. Her blonde locks appeared slightly unkempt hung loose around her shoulders. Elsa covered her eyes with some black cat-eye shades to finish off the outfit. Smokin'! The 27-year-old model wore a pretty prairie style midi dress with flats on the outing Taking a moment: The Swedish beauty sat checking her phone as she perched on a ledge Clearly pleased with the look the VS beauty shared a snap of her outfit on Instagram on Thursday and revealed that her dress was by eco-friendly designer Reformation. Elsa was crowned an Angel for Victoria Secret in 2015, having worked extensively as part of it's younger-targeted brand, PINK. The Swedish clotheshorse has modeled for other famous companies, including Dolce & Gabbana and Lilly Pulitzer. Too cool for school: Elsa teamed the look with a red Chanel bag and stylish shades Recently, Elsa has become part of a new campaign for shoe brand, ZCD Montreal. She has joined forces with model Devon Windsor to be spokeswomen for the Canada-based company, and no doubt she has plenty of thrilling insight into the world of footwear. The sneakers featured a thick, white bottom, and sell for nearly $400. Another night out, another stunning outfit from Millie Mackintosh's never-ending wardrobe. However, this time, it was the socialite's own party as she hosted an event to celebrate her new collaboration with Birchbox on Thursday. The former Made In Chelsea star, 26, looked lovely in a powder blue shirt maxi dress as she arrived at the Bloomsbury Hotel in London. Babe in blue: Millie Mackintosh looked lovely in a powder blue maxi dress as she arrives at the Birchbox party in London on Thursday The former make-up artist completed her summery look with a pair of nude strappy sandals, with her light brown hair styled in natural waves. The party was celebrating the launch of the July Birchbox, a collection of make-up curated by Millie for the subscription beauty site. Entitled 'Never-Ending Summer', the collection was inspired by 'sunset hues and bohemian summers'. It's my party and I'll pose if I want to: It was the socialite's own party as she hosted an event to celebrate her new collaboration with Birchbox Natural beauty: The fitness fanatic completed her summery look with a pair of nude strappy sandals, with her light brown hair styled in natural waves Posting a photo on her Instagram, Millie wrote: 'Celebrating the launch of my collab with @BirchboxUK for their July box! Can't wait for you to try my new LOC lip crayon, which will be in EVERY box in July! #BirchboxXMillie #BirchboxUK.' Missing out on the evening was her new boyfriend and former Made In Chelsea co-star Hugo Taylor. Millie and Hugo, who previously dated for six months back in 2011, started seeing each other again in March - just weeks after the socialite split from husband Professor Green. Flying solo: Missing out on the evening was her new boyfriend and former Made In Chelsea co-star Hugo Taylor After weeks of rumours, the pair finally went public with their reconciled romance in Monaco in May, a few days after her divorce was granted from the rapper after two and a half years of marriage. Speaking about her romance with the sunglasses designer, she told The Telegraph last weekend: 'Im great. Hes great. Im very happy, thats all I can say.' While she gushed over Hugo, the fashion designer was wholly less forthcoming with talk of her ex-husband as she said: 'I cant really talk about it. Its for legal reasons.' Fans have been eagerly waiting to meet the lovely ladies who will fight for the heart of Richie Strahan on season four of The Bachelor this year. And the wait is finally over, with The Herald Sun releasing the list of the dating show's 22 love hopefuls that are set to grace our screens over the coming months. It seems that this season will boast some of the most colourful contestants yet; with the likes of a massage therapist, children's entertainer and a former athlete entering the fray. Scroll down for video Meet the ladies! The list of 22 women vying for the attention of Richie Strahan on the upcoming fourth season of The Bachelor Australia has been unveiled Ages of the women range from 23 to 34, with contestants flying in from across Australia to try their luck at impressing oil rig worker Richie Strahan, 31, who hails from Western Australia. The line-up of ladies is certainly eclectic, with one particular contestant, Alexandra Nation being a single mother of one. Another contestant is communications officer Natalie, who admitted to the publication that she has never had a boyfriend. 'I'm almost 28 and have never had a boyfriend. I'm at the stage where I would love to share my life with someone,' revealed the slender brunette. A bevvy of beauties! (L-R) Mia, Keira, Olena, Marja, Kiki and Eliza Contestant Laura, a 24-year-old project manager, confessed to the publication that she didn't think she would ever make it onto the show, saying: 'I actually applied for The Bachelor because I wanted to open myself up and find love, and it was also a dare by my friends. I didn't think I'd make it this far!' In contrast, Marja, the oldest contestant on the show, exuded nothing but confidence during her chat with the publication, with the 34-year-old yoga instructor saying 'I am just a catch', when quizzed about why Richie should pick her. It comes after Daily Mail Australia reported that Playboy model Kirralee Morris would join the show. A gaggle of glamazons! (L-R) Georgia, Tolyna, Laura, Alex and Aimee The brunette bombshell from Sydney has a modelling portfolio that extends to racy men's magazines such as Ralph and Zoo, and she's graced many a magazine cover. The glamorous stunner, who goes by the moniker 'Kiki', is however described as a personal assistant in the recent Herald Sun article. Meanwhile Lara Bingle-lookalike Keira Maguire was also pinned as another contestant this year. Keira some leverage over her rivals, thanks to he friendship with Richie's cousin Lisa Clark and former contestant Lisa Hyde. Busty bombshells! (L-R) Faith, Vintaea, Janey and Noni Mother-of-one Alexandra Nation was also identified as joining the program earlier this year. Producers likely cast the actress in the hopes that she would follow in the footsteps of last year's winner Snezana Markoski, who won over Bachelor Sam Wood despite having a ten-year-old daughter. Bachelor hopeful Tolyna Baan was identified earlier this month as also joining the show. The blonde beauty, who is believed to be part Dutch, works under modelling company Wink Models and has previously appeared on an insurance TV advert. Lovely ladies! (L-R) Megan, Natalie, Rachael, Nikki and Tiffany Who will he choose? Ages of the women range from 23 to 34, with contestants flying in from across Australia to try their luck at impressing oil rig worker Richie Strahan, 31, who hails from Western Australia Present Laughter (Theatre Royal Bath and touring) Rating: When in doubt at the Theatre Royal, Bath, stage some Noel Coward. Sure enough, Present Laughter has come round in the rations again, and a pretty good production of it at that. This is the 1939 Coward play about a theatrical galaxy whose great glorious sun is West End star Garry Essendine, a man with 18 silk dressing gowns and almost as many lovers. Pretty good production: The Theatre Royal Bath is staging Present Laughter by Noel Coward The show opens with a pretty little thing called Daphne (Daisy Boulton) tiptoeing round Essendines apartment in the morning in a pair of his pyjamas. She has become the latest adornment in his chaotically crowded life. Designer Simon Higlett has devised a sumptuous set: Essendines London lair is adorned with all the clutter and panache you would expect of a 40-year-old star of the stage: a piano, ashtrays, big fireplace, statues. Images of him and posters from his plays fill the walls. He sleeps upstairs, at the top of a spiral staircase. Essendine is played by Samuel West a strong performer, but is he perhaps these days a little too jowly to play such a magnet? Phyllis Logan is splendid as his frightful old warship of a secretary, Monica. Essendines domestics include a maid who is a Scandinavian spiritualist (Sally Tatum, not exactly under-acting) and a spivvy valet (Martin Hancock). Once some problems with volume were resolved on Wednesday, Rebecca Johnson was perfect as his estranged wife. Another technical distraction was a blue light or reflection on a table in the upstage hallway. Ladies man: Sam West and Zoe Boyle The pleasure of watching Present Laughter goes beyond the drolleries and the elegant costumes and even the nostalgia hit. We can now contemplate the autobiographical nature of the play substitute Essendines women for Cowards men. We thus see that Coward was being remarkably frank about his own selfishness. He WAS also taking a swipe at prigs who set themselves up as middle-class moralisers. Yet the story ends with Essendine returning to the wife who is so plainly the best thing in his life. Poor Noel. He hated to be judged yet he ached for humdrum domesticity. Director Stephen Unwin has assembled a strong cast for this touring production. Look out not only for sweet Miss Boulton but also for Zoe Boyle, slinky in a bare-backed green velvet dress as temptress Joanna. Toby Longworth and Jason Morell play Essendines producers. Patrick Walshe McBride is perhaps five per cent over the top as the deranged young playwright Roland Maule. Essendines telephone and doorbell ring with yet more interruptions of his artistic sensibilities. Another back-of-the-hand to fevered brow. His creative life is becoming a vortex. When the doorbell chimes yet again, he wails that it is no doubt the Lord Chamberlain at his door. Back in 1939 that high officer of the kingdom could still censor plays thought to carry too low a moral tone. Today, the sexual shenanigans of the Essendine apartment may seem tame, but the tension of multifarious amorous entanglements has not and will never abate. Maggie and Pierre (Finborough Theatre) Rating: Maggie Trudeau was the exciting, erratic wife of late Canadian prime minister Pierre. Her son, Justin, is Ottawas current PM. Maggie, 29 years younger than Pierre, was 18 when he met her in Tahiti. They married quietly in 1971 and the PMs glamorous wife became a media sensation. She was indiscreet, feisty, and had a fruity past a slimmer cross between Cherie Blair and Karen Danczuk. Kelly Burke stars in the one-woman biographical show Maggie and Pierre and tries gamely to keep it interesting. However the script or direction do not help This one-woman biographical show, written in 1979, gives us three personalities: Maggie, Pierre and a journalist called Henry. Youthful Kelly Burke tries gamely to keep it interesting for its 85 minutes but she is not much helped by the script or budget direction (what a boring wardrobe!). Malaria vaccine loses effectiveness over several years: study An experimental vaccine against malaria known as Mosquirix -- or RTS,S -- weakens over time and is only about four percent effective over a seven-year span, researchers said Wednesday. The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, are based on a phase II clinical trial involving more than 400 young children in Kenya. There is currently no vaccine against malaria on the world market and Mosquirix -- developed by the British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline -- is the experimental vaccine in the most advanced stage of development. A health official tests for malaria, a disease that killed more than 400,000 people worldwide in 2015, with most of the deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa Pius Utomi Ekpei (AFP/File) It has also been tested in a vast clinical trial that spanned seven African nations, and last year the European Medicines Agency gave it a "positive scientific opinion" regarding its use outside the European Union. But the current study, involving 447 children from five to 17 months of age, suggested otherwise. Some of the infants were given three doses of the malaria vaccine, while others received a vaccine against rabies for comparison. In the first year, the protection against malaria among Mosquirix-vaccinated children was 35.9 percent. But after four years this protection fell to 2.5 percent. Researchers said that on average, over the course of seven years, the vaccine would be considered just 4.4 percent effective against malaria. This rate "was substantially lower than that seen over short-term follow up," said the study. Furthermore, among children who were more frequently exposed to mosquito-borne malaria, cases of infection with the parasite P. falciparum in the fifth year were higher than in the control group. Researchers said this phenomenon may be occurring because the vaccine protects against the earliest form of malarias life cycle, known as sporozoites, and reduces exposure to a later form, known as the blood-stage parasite, which causes the clinical symptoms of malaria such as fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. "The reduced exposure to blood-stage parasites among persons who have received the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine may lead to a slower acquisition of immunity to blood-stage parasites, leading to an increase in episodes of clinical malaria in later life," said the study. The results of a larger, phase III clinical trial with the same vaccine, published last year, showed that three doses could reduce the risk of malaria by 28 percent over a period of four years. The rate of protection rose to 36 percent when children received a fourth dose of the vaccine, suggesting that this additional dose was significant. Malaria killed more than 400,000 people worldwide in 2015, with most of the deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and most among children under age five. The research was funded by the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Brexit shadow hangs over Australian polls Australia heads to the polls Saturday with a suave multi-millionaire former banker vowing only he can ensure stability in the wake of the Brexit vote for a nation used to a revolving door of prime ministers. Malcolm Turnbull, 61, became Australia's fourth leader in just over two years when he ousted fellow Liberal Tony Abbott in September -- and he has jumped on Britain's decision to leave the European Union to bolster his position. Brexit illustrated how "critical it is that we maintain strong, stable leadership", he said, adding that his Labor opponent Bill Shorten, 49, would not provide that. People walk past political placards outside a polling station in Sydney's central business district William West (AFP) "Now more than ever we need confidence, we need investment, we need employment, we need stability, we need leadership. And that is what we provide and that is what only we can provide in the choice that Australians face on July 2," he said this week. The right-leaning Liberals and centre-left Labor have polled neck and neck for much of a lacklustre eight-week campaign as they criss-crossed the country to shore up support in marginal seats. But last week's shock decision by Britain has stoked anxiety about pressures facing Australia's economy, playing more to the Liberal's focus on "jobs and growth". A poll on Monday showed Turnbull inching ahead 51-49 percent. Turnbull has called an election early because crossbenchers -- politicians who are independent or from minor parties -- hold the balance of power in the upper house Senate. They have failed to pass deadlocked legislation to overhaul unions which provided the trigger for a double dissolution of parliament, where all seats in the upper and lower houses are contested. Some predict the upper house could end up with more crossbenchers after the election than before, as voters fed-up with traditional politicians look for alternatives. - 'Battle for our generation' - Dozens of minor parties and niche candidates are standing on Saturday and political strategist Glenn Druery said they could capitalise on disillusionment with Labor and the Liberals. "Generally speaking, the votes for minor parties is going up, up, up," he said, adding that "essentially, people are dissatisfied with the major parties". But Nick Economou, who teaches politics at Melbourne's Monash University, said there is far less public anger toward the current government than Labor's Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard -- both of whom were removed. "The anger towards those people was palpable," he said. Nevertheless, Shorten has been driving home the party's traditional values of improving health and education while pledging more renewable energy and a fairer tax system. "What we're doing is giving working class people the opportunity to have a good standard of living," he said, rejecting Turnbull's definition of stability. "That's how you keep a society coherent and united." Turnbull has centred his campaign around economic management, arguing the government has the fiscal know-how to oversee the transition from Australia's mining investment boom to one that is more diverse and creates new jobs. He has also highlighted the government's immigration policies that have stopped asylum-seeker boats and pledged to hold a plebiscite on gay marriage as soon as possible. The Greens -- viewed as the third party in Australian politics -- have been campaigning on inequality, climate change and asylum-seekers. Voting is mandatory in Australia for all adults, with turnout never falling below 90 percent since it became compulsory in 1924. Socio-economic factfile on Australia Gal ROMA (AFP) Malcolm Turnbull, 61, became Australia's fourth leader in just over two years when he ousted fellow Liberal Tony Abbott in September 2016 Mark Graham (AFP/File) CAIR Loses in Court, Media Fails to Notice | Main | National Post Headline Casts Doubt: Murder of Hallel Ariel Maybe Not Terrorism June 30, 2016 After Mother of Terrorist Says Son "Hero" and "Martyr," NY Times Mistranslates to Hide Her Words (UPDATED) UPDATE: Following communication with CAMERA staff, the New York Times has corrected its subtitles. They now accurately show the woman using the word "hero" to describe terrorists like her son, and no longer claim she called the killing a "crime." A New York Times video segment entitled "Reactions to West Bank Stabbing" includes an interview with the mother of a Palestinian terrorist who murdered a 13-year-old girl today. But a series of mistranslations downplayed the mother's words, which showed her proud support for her son's deed. A twitter user named Akiva Cohen flagged one error, noting that although the audio clearly captured the mother calling her son a shahid, or "martyr," the subtitle showed her saying only "son." Mom of terrorist who murdered 13yr old girl calls him "martyr". @nytimes edits 2 "my son". @GileadIni @elderofziyon pic.twitter.com/Ag0hN2Rsag Akiva Cohen (@AkivaMCohen) June 30, 2016 The mistranslation was quickly corrected. But other mistranslations, which also soften the mother's extreme rhetoric, remain. Where the mother says that of course anyone who would commit such an act is a "hero," the subtitle shows her saying the word "bold" instead of hero. Likewise, the subtitle translates her referring to the murder as a "crime," though she does not actually use that word. CAMERA has called on the newspaper to correct the remaining mistranslations. It should also figure out who mistranslated the segment in this way, what went wrong, and how to ensure that future translations even of inflammatory statements by Palestinians are rendered accurately. Posted by GI at June 30, 2016 04:29 PM I can't comprehend how any mother would applaud her son committing such an atrocity. Where are her ethics and morals. Islam is supposed to be a religion of peace. She is NOT a true Muslim. Posted by: Pat at June 30, 2016 07:35 PM To be fair to the NY Times, if you were anti Israel like the Times is, you too would be lying to avoid talking how Palestinians love slaughtering Israeli teenagers in their sleep. Posted by: Barry Rosen at June 30, 2016 08:15 PM This may be one more example of the translator knowing better than the speaker what their words really meant and to spare the sensibilities of the anti-Israel crowd from dealing with reality. Recall the time "Yahud" was incorrectly translated as "Zionist" rather than "Jew" when their murder was called for by a baying crowd in Gaza. Thus does the media fail in its most important self-imposed responsibility: to inform as accurately as humanly possible. Posted by: Charlie in NY at July 1, 2016 07:34 AM The NY Times has long been revered as a bastion for honest and articulate journalism...and a lot of other things, too. It is extremely disquieting to consider that the Times intentionally mistranslated. Posted by: Dorothy sklaroff at July 1, 2016 10:03 PM Sneaking into the bedroom of a 13 year old girl and murdering her as she slept was the act of a coward. She was absolutely no threat to anyone. He murdered an innocent person. He died a coward. Posted by: Grace at July 2, 2016 01:42 PM The NY Times is a liberal newspaper which will always take the side of the real murderers which they always slant as the victim. What civilized person would be proud of their son killing a little girl, yes she was a LITTLE GIRL no harm to anyone. They are barbaric and they are made out to do something noble?. Sad that people still pay for the alleged journalism, it's really liberal rhetoric. Posted by: Tia at July 3, 2016 02:10 PM Standard operating procedure for NYT. Posted by: ThatSkepticGuy at July 4, 2016 11:47 AM "Islam is supposed to be a religion of peace. She is NOT a true Muslim." It seems as though you've never read the Quran, the Haddith or any history of Islam. Posted by: ThatSkepticGuy at July 4, 2016 11:53 AM It is absolutely unacceptable to commit "typos" in translating these matters, and make mother appear more human, show her for what she is, do the "honors" and translate her accurately for the monster she is and for the beast she has raised. Posted by: Judy Escayo at July 5, 2016 01:59 AM This shows how the word we choose to use is so important. I cringe every time I read or hear the term Palestenian used to describe Arabs and Muslims who claim to be indignous to Israel. Suha Daoud Tawil Arafat, the Mrs. Yasser Arafat, admitted a couple of years ago on BBC radio, via NPR.com, that her husband made this 'people' up in the 1960s as a political move against Israel. Posted by: Yosef ben Avraham at July 8, 2016 08:25 PM Guidelines for posting This is a moderated blog. We will not post comments that include racism, bigotry, threats, or factually inaccurate material. Post a comment N. Korea leader Kim Jong-Un gets new 'top post' North Korea has created a new, supreme governing commission with leader Kim Jong-Un as its chairman, underlining the 33-year-old's absolute control over every aspect of state policy in the isolated, nuclear-armed nation. The country's legislative body, the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA), unanimously voted Kim as head of the State Affairs Commission on Wednesday, the North's official KCNA news agency said. The new agency replaces the National Defence Commission as the country's highest branch of government and supreme policymaking organisation. North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un attends the fourth session of the 13th Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK on June 29 in Pyongyang Nominating Kim for the post, SPA president Kim Yong-Nam said it was the "unshakable faith and unswerving will of all service personnel and people of the country to uphold Kim Jong-Un ... at the top post of the DPRK". DPRK is the official acronym for North Korea. Cheong Seong-Chang, a North Korea expert at the Sejong Institute think-tank in Seoul, said the move effectively raised Kim Jong-Un to the post of supreme head of state. "It's commensurate with the title of 'President of the Republic' given to (his grandfather) Kim Il-Sung in 1972," Cheong said Thursday. Kim Il-Sung was declared North Korea's "eternal president" following his death in 1994. Kim Jong-Un bears a striking resemblance to his grandfather -- a similarity he has played up in a clear attempt to co-opt Kim Il-Sung's legacy. -- Out of father's shadow -- His new position also marks a further break with the legacy of his father, Kim Jong-Il, who until his death in late 2011 had effectively ruled North Korea as chairman of the now defunct NDC. The military-dominated NDC was responsible for all defence and security-related affairs, but under Kim Jong-Il's military-first policy it also exercised control over other key, non-defence related policymaking areas. The new commission has three vice chairmen under Kim, each explicitly responsible for military, party and governmental affairs. "This marks a clear departure from the era of his father," said Yang Moo-Jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. "And, by making himself the head of an umbrella commission with control over the military, party and government, Kim Jong-Un has become supreme leader in both name and reality," Yang said. Almost the entire front page of the ruling party's official Rodong Sinmun on Thursday was taken up with a formal, colour headshot of Kim Jong-Un, wearing a sombre expression and a Mao jacket buttoned to the neck. "We offer the greatest honour to Dear Comrade Kim Jong-Un, the supreme leader of the Party and the people," ran the accompanying block-letter headline in red ink. The SPA meets only once or twice a year, mostly for day-long sessions to rubber-stamp budgets or other decisions made by the leadership. Wednesday's session included discussion of a new, five-year economic plan unveiled by Kim Jong-Un at a rare party congress in May -- the first such document to come out of the North Korean leadership for decades. Few specific details of the plan have emerged and the KCNA report on the SPA meeting stuck with general exhortations about boosting production and easing the country's energy crunch. North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly unanimously has voted for Kim Jong Un to be head of the State Affairs Commission, the country's highest branch of government and supreme policymaking organisation Beijing to reject Hague ruling on South China Sea case Beijing will reject any ruling by an international tribunal in a contentious case brought by the Philippines over the South China Sea, the foreign ministry said, as tensions mount over the disputed waters. The United Nations-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) said Wednesday it will rule on July 12 in a closely watched case challenging China's claims to much of the strategic waterway. Beijing has consistently rejected the tribunal's right to hear the case and has taken no part in the proceedings, mounting a diplomatic and propaganda drive to try to undermine its authority. Alleged on-going reclamation by China on Mischief Reef in the Spratly group of islands in the South China Sea Ritchie B. Tongo (POOL/AFP/File) "With regard to territorial issues and maritime delimitation disputes, China does not accept any means of third party dispute settlement or any solution imposed on China," foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said in a statement on its website. The tribunal was "established on the basis of illegal conduct and claims of the Philippines" and "has no jurisdiction over the relevant matters", he said. At a regular briefing on Thursday he added that by bringing the case to the arbitration court, the Philippines "disregards China's choice to resolving disputes in ways of its own choosing". The Philippines insisted both it and China were required to follow the tribunal's ruling. "Despite its non-appearance, China is and remains a party to the arbitration and is bound under international law by an award rendered by the tribunal," Manila's foreign ministry said in a statement. "The Philippines believes that the rule of law prescribes a just and peaceful means of resolving differences, which is why the Philippines will fully respect the tribunals award." Manila lodged the suit against Beijing in early 2013, saying that after 17 years of negotiations it had exhausted all political and diplomatic avenues to settle the dispute. Spanning more than three years, two hearings and nearly 4,000 pages of evidence, the arbitration case in The Hague is extremely complex. China claims most of the sea, even waters approaching neighbouring countries, based on a vaguely defined "nine-dash" Chinese map dating back to the 1940s. In recent years Beijing has rapidly built up reefs and outcrops into artificial islands with facilities capable of military use. As well as the Philippines, several other littoral states have competing claims, and the dispute has also embroiled the United States, which has defence treaties with several allies in the region. "I hereby once again emphasise that the Arbitral Tribunal has no jurisdiction over the case and the relevant subject matter, and that it should not have heard the case," Hong said in the statement, released late Wednesday. Quotes of acid-tongued Philippine president Duterte Rodrigo Duterte, who was sworn in as Philippine president on Thursday, is known for an acid tongue. On the campaign trail he made international headlines with inflammatory statements such as calling Pope Francis a "son of a whore" and joking about wanting to rape an Australian missionary woman who was killed in a Davao prison riot. After winning last month's elections in a landslide, the former mayor of the southern city of Davao has continued to make provocative, foul-mouthed statements. Rodrigo Duterte, who has been sworn in as Philippine president, is known for an acid tongue calling Pope Francis a "son of a whore" and joking about wanting to rape an Australian missionary woman Manman Dejeto (AFP/File) Here are some of his post-election quotes: - Some journalists deserve to die - "Just because you are a journalist, you are not exempted from assassination if you are a son of a bitch." (Explaining that many of the journalists killed in the Philippines -- one of the most dangerous nations in the world for media workers -- are corrupt.) - Attack on the United Nations - "That's the trouble here, they're always raising fears about this or that United Nations convention. I say, fuck you UN, you can't even solve the Middle East carnage... couldn't even lift a finger in Africa (with the) butchering (of) the black people. Shut up all of you." (A seemingly unprovoked attack on the United Nations, perhaps due to a UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings highlighting concerns in 2008 about vigilante killings in Davao.) - Slams Catholic Church - "You sons of whores, aren't you ashamed? You ask so many favours, even from me." (Part of a series of tirades against leaders of the Catholic Church, which counts 80 percent of Filipinos as followers.) - Pardons for killer cops - "It's a very simple sentence in the constitution, which says the president has the power to pardon a criminal offender. If I tell someone, kill them (criminals) and they say 'but sir, I will be charged,' I just (answer)... get a carbon copy of the (pardon) paper and I will sign it. If the lawyer objects, even the lawyer, you kill him." (Duterte has said thousands of criminals will die in his war on crime. Here he is offering an assurance to police concerned his shoot-to-kill orders may be illegal.) - Inciting public to join killing spree - "If they are there in your neighbourhood, feel free to call us, the police or do it yourself if you have the gun. You have my support. If he fights and fights to the death, you can kill him. I will give you a medal." (Duterte calling on ordinary Filipinos to also kill suspected criminals) - Military snipers to kill criminals - "I need the military to pitch (in the anti-drug campaign). I need military officers who are sharp-shooters and snipers. It's true. If you (criminals) fight, I will have a sniper shoot you." (Duterte telling reporters he will use military snipers to kill criminals. He later said he would employ machine-gunners as well.) - How's your wife's vagina? - "How is the condition of your wife's vagina? Does she have vaginitis? Does it stink? Is it smelly or not smelly? Give me the report." (Duterte directs offensive and humiliating questions at a journalist in angry retaliation for the reporter questioning him about his health.) - Cut off penises - "Three kids are enough. You social workers must be proactive. Tell them: 'Mayor said if you will have a fifth child, he will cut off your penis'." New Philippine President Duterte vows deadly crime war Authoritarian firebrand Rodrigo Duterte was sworn in as the Philippines' president Thursday -- and quickly launched a foul-mouthed vow to wipe out drug traffickers and even urged ordinary Filipinos to kill addicts. Duterte, 71, won last month's election in a landslide after a campaign dominated by threats to kill tens of thousands of criminals in a relentless war on crime, and tirades against the nation's elite that cast him as an incendiary, anti-establishment hero. After a measured speech after taking his oath before a small audience inside the presidential palace, the outspoken leader paid an evening visit to a Manila slum and unleashed profanity-laden threats against drug traffickers in front of a crowd of about 500 people Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gestures to the crowd he visited composed of families living in slum area of Manila on June 30, 2016 Noel Celis (AFP) "These sons of whores are destroying our children. I warn you, don't go into that, even if you're a policeman, because I will really kill you," the head of state told the audience. "If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself as getting their parents to do it would be too painful." Duterte has previously alleged some police officers were engaged in drug trafficking. Repeating a favourite campaign refrain, the new president also said it would make good business sense to set up funeral parlours. "I assure you you won't go bankrupt. If your business slows I will tell the police, 'Do it faster to help the people earn money.'" In his speech earlier at the Malacanang presidential palace, as he took over from Benigno Aquino, Duterte had given notice there would indeed be dark days during his six years in office. - Rough ride - "The ride will be rough but come join me just the same," Duterte said in his remarks, which opened with familiar themes about the need to instil discipline in a graft-infested society. "The problems that bedevil our country today which need to be addressed with urgency are corruption, both in the high and low echelons in government, criminality in the streets and the rampant sale of illegal drugs in all strata of Philippine society and the breakdown of law and order." Duterte, a lawyer who earned a reputation as an authoritarian figure as mayor of the southern city of Davao over most of the past two decades, said these problems were symptoms of eroding Filipino faith in their leaders. He had previously outlined a vision for his anti-crime programme that included reintroducing the death penalty, with hanging his preferred method of execution. He said he would issue shoot-to-kill orders to the security services and offer them bounties for the bodies of drug dealers. He also urged ordinary Filipinos to kill suspected criminals. During the campaign, Duterte said 100,000 people would die in his crackdown, with so many dead bodies dumped in Manila Bay that fish there would grow fat from feeding on them. He has been accused of links to vigilante death squads in Davao, which rights groups say have killed more than 1,000 people. Such groups are concerned that extrajudicial killings could spread across the Philippines under him, with a police crackdown following his election already leaving dozens of people dead. -'I know what is legal'- Duterte said at the presidential palace on Thursday his fight against crime would be "relentless and sustained", as he called on human rights monitors and critics in Congress to respect the mandate the Filipino people have given him. But he also insisted he would work within the boundaries of the law. "As a lawyer and former prosecutor, I know the limits of the power and authority of the president. I know what is legal and what is not. My adherence to due process and rule of law is uncompromising," he said. Duterte also sought to portray himself as unifying figure. "I was elected to the presidency to serve the entire country. I was not elected to serve the interest of any person or any group or any one class," Duterte said. During the election campaign, Duterte picked fights with the envoys of key allies the United States and Australia after they criticised his joke about wanting to rape a "beautiful" Australian missionary who was sexually assaulted and killed in a Davao prison riot. After his election win, Duterte also launched a seemingly unprovoked attack against the United Nations. "Fuck you UN, you can't even solve the Middle East carnage... couldn't even lift a finger in Africa (with the) butchering (of) the black people. Shut up all of you," he said. On Thursday, Duterte offered a muted message of friendship to the international community. "On the international front and community of nations, let me reiterate that the Republic of the Philippines will honour treaties and international obligations," he said. Rodrigo Duterte Gal Roma (AFP) Incoming Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte (L) listens to outgoing President Benigno Aquino ahead of his swearing-in ceremony at Malacanang Palace in Manila on June 30, 2016 Ted Aljibe (AFP) Activists rally in support for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in Manila on June 30, 2016 Noel Celis (AFP) Crowds rally in Manila in support of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on June 30, 2016 Noel Celis (AFP) Philippines' Duterte a controversial anti-establishment firebrand To his critics, Rodrigo Duterte is a foul-mouthed, serial adulterer fixated on killing criminals. But the millions who voted for the new Philippine leader see him an anti-establishment hero. Duterte, 71, was sworn in on Thursday as the 16th president of the Philippines after a controversial but wildly successful election campaign dominated by his vows to kill tens of thousands of criminals and tirades against the nation's elite. He became the oldest president of the Southeast Asian nation of 100 million people and the first from Mindanao, an impoverished and conflict-plagued region that makes up the southern third of the country. Outgoing Philippines President Benigno Aquino shakes hands with his successor Rodrigo Duterte (center) during the departure ceremony for Aquino at Malacanang Palace in Manila on June 30, 2016 Ted Aljibe (AFP) Duterte rose to the nation's top job after spending most of the past two decades as mayor of Davao, the biggest city in Mindanao, earning a reputation as a ruthless leader willing to forsake human rights to enforce law-and-order. A lawyer and former city prosecutor, Duterte is accused of links to vigilante death squads that rights groups say killed more than 1,000 people in Davao -- accusations he has variously accepted and denied. Aided by bucketloads of charisma, Duterte was undoubtedly a hugely popular leader of Davao, where many of the city's nearly two million residents welcomed his authoritarian touch in helping to deliver relative peace and economic prosperity. To win last month's elections, Duterte promised to roll out his style of governance across the rest of the country. He vowed to end crime within six months, at one point saying 100,000 people would be killed. In an era where populist politicians are on the rise around the world, Duterte also shrewdly capitalised on his image as a man-of-the people with no tolerance for the nation's political and business elite. "When I become president, by the grace of God, I serve the people, not you," Duterte told reporters in the final stages of the election campaign, referring to the elite. "Shit. My problem is the people at the bottom of society... my problem is how to place food on the table." In a nation where roughly a quarter of the population live below the poverty line -- barely changed despite six years of stellar economic growth under outgoing leader Benigno Aquino -- his disdain for the wealthy proved a huge vote winner. - 'Authenticity' - Duterte's man-of-the poor image was burnished by his disdain for formal clothes, his preference for eating food with his hands and living in a simple home in Davao. The father-of-four's incessant swearing and admissions on the campaign trail to being a serial adulterer, with two mistresses kept in cheap boarding houses in Davao, seemed to add to his aura of authenticity. Other controversial campaign comments -- such as calling Pope Francis a "son of a whore" and joking that he wanted to rape an Australian missionary who was sexually assaulted and killed in a Davao prison riot -- failed to stop his sensational rise. Nevertheless, Duterte is in many respects a traditional politician. He is related to powerful clans from the central Philippines and his father was an influential politician, serving for three years as a cabinet secretary in Ferdinand Marcos's 1960s government before the nation was plunged into dictatorship in 1972. In Davao, Duterte has created his own political dynasty, with his daughter taking over from his as mayor and his son as vice mayor. And since winning the election, Duterte has highlighted his close relationship with the Marcos family. Ferdinand Marcos and his wife, Imelda, were accused of overseeing widespread human rights abuses and plundering $10 billion from state coffers during the strongman's rule, which ended with a famous "People Power" uprising in 1986. Duterte has in recent weeks said he will finally allow the late dictator to be buried at the national hero's cemetery in Manila. Many Filipinos have no doubt that Duterte is the right man to instil discipline in society, after three decades of chaotic and corruption-plagued democracy that has condemned tens of millions to deep poverty. Profile of new Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte. Gal Roma (AFP) Islamic State makes inroads into Kenya Recent arrests show the Islamic State's growing presence in East Africa, where they are recruiting young Kenyans for jihad abroad and raising fears some of them will return to threaten the country. Kenyan intelligence agencies estimate that around 100 men and women may have gone to join the IS in Libya and Syria, triggering concern that some may come back to stage attacks on Kenyan and foreign targets in a country already victim to regular, deadly terrorism. "There is now a real threat that Kenya faces from IS and the danger will continue to increase," said Rashid Abdi, senior analyst at the International Crisis Group think tank in Nairobi. A Kenyan police officer folds up a flag inscribed with the logo of the Islamic state (IS) following a raid on two mosques in the coastal city of Mombasa The problem of eager but often untrained extremists gaining terrorist skills with IS and coming home to launch attacks is one European nations are already grappling with, and may soon be Kenya's problem too. "It's a time bomb," said George Musamali, a Kenyan security consultant and former paramilitary police officer. "People going to Libya or Syria isn't a problem for Kenya, it's what they do when they come back." The first Al-Qaeda attack in Kenya was the 1998 US embassy bombing and the most recent large one a university massacre in Garissa last year, but the IS threat is new and as yet ill defined. In March four men appeared in court accused of seeking to travel to Libya to join IS. Then in early May, Kenyan police announced the arrest of a medical student, his wife and her friend accused of recruiting for IS and plotting an anthrax attack. Two other medical students were said to be on the run. - 'IS terror network' - Police chief Joseph Boinnet described a countrywide "terror network" linked to IS and led by Mohamed Abdi Ali, a medical intern at a regional hospital, "planning large scale attacks" including one to "unleash a biological attack... using anthrax". Three weeks later Kenyan police announced (using another IS acronym) the arrest of two more members of "the ISIS network that is seeking to establish itself in Kenya in order to conduct terror attacks against innocent Kenyans." Police said they had found "materials terrorists typically use in the making of IEDs" -- homemade bombs -- as well as "bows and poisoned arrows". Some experts dismissed the suggestion of an imminent large-scale attack in Kenya, but said the threat of IS radicalisation, recruitment and return is genuine. "We can't see either the intent to carry out such an attack nor any real planning for it," said one foreign law enforcement official who has examined the anthrax allegation. "But there is something in it: there is IS here, mainly involved in recruitment and facilitation." Martine Zeuthen, a Kenya-based expert on violent extremism at Britain's Royal United Services Institute, said the recent arrests "indicate that radicalisation continues to be a serious security concern". She said that while recruitment into the Somalia-based Al-Qaeda group Shabaab remains the primary danger, "there are also credible reports of recruitment from Kenya to violent groups outside the region, such as those fighting in Libya." "Like those who went to fight in Somalia and returned to Kenya, this new category of recruit may also return and pose a security risk to Kenya," said Zeuthen. - Multiplying threats - Kenyan authorities already struggle to manage the return of their nationals from Somalia, where hundreds of Kenyans make up the bulk of Shabaab's foreign fighters. In the future they will likely also have to deal with returning IS extremists as well as self-radicalised "lone wolf" attackers inspired by the group's ideology and online propaganda. "Kenya risks finding itself fairly soon in the position that Belgium or France or the US does, as IS-inspired extremists pose a domestic threat," said Matt Bryden, director of Sahan Research, a Nairobi-based think tank. "In Kenya, we're not yet at the point where experienced fighters are coming back but it may not be far off." Bryden and others believe that for now the true number of Kenyan IS recruits may be just "a handful" but the existence of sympathisers with the capacity to help aspiring jihadis travel to Libya and Syria, often via Khartoum, Sudan, is not in doubt. IS is a new entrant to a well-established jihadist scene in Kenya, exploiting the diverse grievances of angry, frustrated and disaffected young Kenyans. Recent security operations on Kenya's coast have forced Shabaab recruiters into retreat, inadvertently opening up space for IS. "Success in dismantling the organised jihadi networks has created a vacuum into which IS is stepping," said Abdi. "There is a proliferation of jihadi groups, and that makes for a much more dangerous situation." Billboard put up by the Kenyan Interior Ministry in Nairobi picturing alleged Shabaab commander Mohamed Mohamud, suspected of being the mastermind of the Garissa University attack, which left 148 people dead Simon Maina (AFP/File) Workers put the final touches on a memorial to the victims of the massacre of 148 mostly students of Garissa University College, in Garissa, Kenya Tony Karumba (AFP/File) Rumi wasn't yours: Afghan fury as Iran, Turkey claim Sufi poet Who can lay claim to Rumi, the Sufi mystic who is one of the world's most beloved poets? A bid by Iran and Turkey to do so has exasperated Afghanistan, country of his birth eight centuries ago. Tehran and Ankara asked to list the work of Jalal ud-Din Muhammad Rumi as their joint heritage on the UN's "Memory of the World" register in May. The register, falling under the UN's cultural organisation UNESCO, was formed in 1997 to protect the world's documentary heritage -- archives, correspondence and writing -- especially in troubled or conflict-ridden areas. The ruins of the house of Sufi mystic and poet Rumi in the Khowaja Gholak district of northern Balkh province, Afghanistan FARSHAD USYAN (AFP) But the Afghan government has denounced the bid, which mainly concerns the 25,600 verses of "Masnavi-i-Ma'navi", one of the most influential works in Persian literature. He is one of the best-selling poets in the US, and his works have been translated into more than 23 languages. Hollywood is planning a Rumi biopic -- also mired in controversy after rumoured plans for Leonardo DiCaprio to play him were met with accusations of "whitewashing". The poet and philosopher "was born in Balkh in Afghanistan and made us proud," the Ministry of Information and Culture insisted. UNESCO "never asked us" about the proposal, Harron Haklimi, the ministry's spokesman, said, acknowledging that Kabul had been beaten to the punch but hoping they can yet convince the organisation that Afghanistan has the better claim to the poet. - Son of Balkh - For Afghans, who learn his poems in primary school, Rumi is "Maulana Jalaludin Balkh", or "Maulana" (literally "our master"), or simply "Balkhi". Most researchers agree he was born in Balkh, Afghanistan in 1207 -- though this too has been the subject of debate: a few argue he was born just across the border, in what is modern day Tajikistan, in a region also known as Balkh. Today, the Afghan town of Balkh is a small provincial settlement, but back then it was an ancient religious capital and centre for Buddhist and Persian literature. It was sacked by Genghis Khan and his Mongal hordes in 1221. The young Rumi and his family fled to Turkey, where he spent most of his life -- he died in the city of Konya in 1273. It was there that his son founded the Order of the Whirling Dervishes to perpetuate his father's teachings. But for Afghans, he remains a child of their country and it is still possible to visit the house in which they believe he was born. The powerful governor of Balkh province, former warlord General Ata Mohammad Noor called on Afghanistan's representative to the United Nations to protest. "By limiting Maulana to only two countries, we do not do justice to a global personality who is truly cherished and admired across the world," he said. "He is considered an important part of the culture and identity of Afghanistan," writer and poet Sadiq Usyan, professor at the Balkh university in nearby provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif, told AFP. Separating the two is considered an "insult" and even a "threat" to Afghanistan, he said. A UNESCO representative in Kabul argued there had been some "confusion". "Any country, delegation or even individual can submit a request to be considered under this program," said spokesman Ricardo Grassi. He noted the backlash, adding: "But this request has still to be considered." To accede to it without mentioning Afghanistan would be unacceptable, said the director of Balkh's provincial cultural department, Salih Mohammad Khaleeq. "Maulana belongs to Afghanistan." - #RumiWasntWhite - Khaleeq has big plans for Balkh -- especially since Oscar-winning star DiCaprio was tipped to play Rumi in the new Hollywood film. The unconfirmed rumour spread rapidly on social media with accusations of film industry "whitewashing", with the hashtag #RumiWasntWhite swiftly trending. "So easy for Hollywood to find Muslims to play terrorists, but they can't cast a Muslim as Rumi?" read one typical tweet. Another said: "remember when idris elba wasn't 'english enough' to play james bond, but it's chill if leo dicaprio plays rumi." For Khaleeq, however, the film is an opportunity. "We want this place to become a tourist site where tourists can come and visit," he said. A large portrait of Rumi already greets visitors arriving in Balkh. However, his childhood home has been ravaged by time, badly weathered with its ochre-coloured mud walls collapsed, the interior open to the wind. The controversy has warmed spirits in the region, with an online petition collecting nearly 6,000 signatures. President Ashraf Ghani, who in mid-June hosted Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, has been carefully diplomatic, with a statement saying Rumi is "a shared pride of the two countries". It added he was ready to register Rumi's works "as a shared heritage of Turkey and Afghanistan". He made no mention of Iran. Clues to what Rumi himself might have made of the dispute may lay in his writings. In 2007, Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey came together with UNESCO to mark the 800th anniversary of his birth. Then, the cultural organisation issued a medal in his honour while citing one of his famous couplets: "I do not distinguish between the relative and the stranger". Sufi mystic and poet Rumi was born in Balkh in 1207, Afghan officials say, although this has been the subject of debate among researchers Farshad Usyan (AFP) The ruins of the house of Sufi mystic and poet Rumi in the Khowaja Gholak district of northern Balkh province, Afghanistan Farshad Usyan (AFP) Golden age Hollywood starlet Olivia de Havilland turns 100 Screen legend Olivia de Havilland, who turns 100 on Friday, is the last surviving star from "Gone with the Wind" and one of the last great stars of Hollywood's bygone golden era. The two-time Oscar winner and five-time Academy Award nominee came to embody the elegant glamour of the silver screen in the 1930s and 1940s. But she also made waves with a landmark legal battle against the Hollywood studios and a secret feud with her equally famous sister, Joan Fontaine. Two-time Oscar winner Olivia de Havilland (2L) came to embody the elegant glamour of the silver screen (L to R)Broderick Crawford, de Havilland, Mercedes McCambridge and Dean Jagger with their Oscars in 1950 The 1939 box-office blockbuster "Gone with the Wind" brought de Havilland wide acclaim for her role as the noble, long-suffering Melanie, starring opposite Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable in the US Civil War epic. Her performance as love rival to the fiery Scarlett O'Hara, played by Leigh, led to de Havilland's first Oscar nod for best supporting actress. But she lost out to co-star Hattie McDaniel, who played the character of Mammy and became the first African-American to win an Academy Award. The film sealed De Havilland's reputation as one of Hollywood's top leading ladies, but with her doe-eyed looks she soon felt frustrated at the roles she was offered, fearful of being typecast as a sweet, innocent young thing. "Playing a good girl was difficult in the 30s, when the fad was to play bad girls," she once said in an interview. "Actually, I think playing bad girls is a bore. I have always had more luck with good girl roles because they require more from an actress." Her screen debut had come as Hermia in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" in 1935 after director Max Reinhardt spotted her in a local theatre production of the play. She won accolades for her role opposite swashbuckling actor Errol Flynn in "Captain Blood" later the same year, and their on-screen chemistry persuaded studio bosses to cast her alongside Flynn in seven other movies. - Correcting 'a serious abuse' - De Havilland incurred the wrath of the bosses at Warner Bros., who at that time effectively owned their stars, by rejecting script after script. In what was a shocking move for the era, she sued the studios to be released from her seven-year contract and won, in a far-reaching 1945 ruling which gave actors the right to choose their own roles and career paths. It is still known as the De Havilland law, and the actress once said of it: "I was very proud of that decision, for it corrected a serious abuse of the contract system... No one thought I would win, but I did." During her court case, she was blacklisted for three years and unable to work, but her legal victory kickstarted her career. The following year in 1946 she won her first Oscar for her portrayal of Jody Norris in "To Each His Own", in an edgier role as an unmarried mother and her heartbreaking struggle to stay near to the child she could never acknowledge. She won her second Academy Award for playing the socially inept spinster Catherine Sloper in "The Heiress" in 1949. In a real-life Hollywood drama, De Havilland was estranged for many years from her sister Joan Fontaine, her junior by a year and a screen legend in her own right. Neither actress has ever spoken publicly about their feud, but in 1941 De Havilland lost out on an Oscar for her lead performance as Emmy Brown in "Hold Back the Dawn" to Fontaine, who picked up the statuette for Alfred Hitchcock's "Suspicion". The sisters remain the only siblings in Oscar history to have both won lead acting honours. - 'Soul-crushing' - The two girls were born to British parents living in Tokyo. In a twist of fate, De Havilland fell ill as a girl leading to an initially short stay in California that stretched into years. De Havilland became a naturalised US citizen in 1941, but in the 1950s her career began to wilt as she despaired at the growing promiscuousness in the movie world. She appeared in a few films in the 1970s and also did some television work in the 1980s. But she is said to have once pronounced: "The TV business is soul-crushing, talent-destroying and human-being-destroying." Romantically, De Havilland was linked to John Huston, James Stewart and Howard Hughes in the 1940s, but she married novelist Marcus Goodrich in 1946, by whom she had a son, Benjamin. The couple divorced in 1953, and De Havilland later married French journalist Pierre Galante, with whom she had a daughter, Giselle, in 1956. They later divorced but when Galante fell ill, she nursed him during his final days in Paris and remained in the French capital. Olivia de Havilland plays Melanie Wilkes in a scene from the 1939 Hollywood epic "Gone With the Wind" HO (HO/AFP/File) US president George W. Bush (R) presents the National Medals of Arts to actress Olivia de Havilland in 2008 in the East Room of the White House Jim Watson (AFP/File) Olivia de Havilland (R) is congratulated by French president Nicolas Sarkozy after being made a chevalier of the Legion of Honour in 2010 at the Elysee Palace in Paris Eric Feferberg (AFP/File) Stabbing at West Bank settlement, attacker shot dead: army An attacker stabbed and wounded one person at a Jewish settlement on the outskirts of the flashpoint West Bank city of Hebron on Thursday and was shot dead, the Israeli army said. The army described the attacker as a "terrorist," usually used to indicate Palestinian assailants. Israeli medics said a 15-year-old was critically wounded and a 30-year-old was severely hurt at the Kiryat Arba settlement, but further details were not clear, including how the second person was injured. Israeli security forces patrol at the entrance of the Israeli settlement of Kiryat Arba in the southern occupied West Bank Hazem Bader (AFP/File) Initial reports from medics described the attack as a shooting before the army said it was a stabbing, but details were still emerging. "A short while ago, a terrorist infiltrated and stabbed a civilian in the community of Kiryat Arba," the army said in a statement. "The attacker was shot, resulting in his death. Two civilians were wounded and are being evacuated to a hospital for further medical treatment." Violence since October has killed at least 211 Palestinians, 32 Israelis, two Americans, an Eritrean and a Sudanese. Most of the Palestinians were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities. Japan charges US base worker with rape and murder: media Japanese prosecutors on Thursday charged a US military base employee with the alleged rape and murder of a local woman on the southern island of Okinawa, media reported. Kenneth Franklin Shinzato, 32, a former US Marine employed at the US Air Force's sprawling Kadena Air Base, was first charged in early June for allegedly disposing of the body of the victim, identified by local media as Rina Shimabukuro. As is common practice in Japanese law, he was again charged by Okinawa prosecutors, this time for the separate crime of the alleged rape and murder of the 20-year-old woman, Jiji Press and other news reports said. Policemen try to control protesters outside the US Marine Corps' Camp Schwab base in Nago on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa on June 17, 2016 Toru Yamanaka (AFP/File) Prosecutors and court officials in Okinawa refused to confirm the reports. The case has intensified longstanding local opposition to the American military presence on the strategic island, which reluctantly hosts nearly 75 percent of land alloted for US bases in Japan even though it accounts for just a fraction of the country's total area. Crimes by US personnel have long sparked protests on crowded Okinawa, and have been a frequent irritant in relations between close security allies Japan and the United States. Shinzato's initial arrest in May sparked fresh anger among Okinawans as well as a harsh public rebuke by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to US President Barack Obama when he visited Japan for a Group of Seven summit. Obama expressed regret over the incident while vowing measures to prevent crime by Americans. The military on Okinawa, meanwhile, imposed restrictions including a curfew and temporary curbs on alcohol consumption. More than half the 47,000 American troops in Japan under a decades-long security alliance are stationed on Okinawa, the site of a major World War II battle that was followed by a 27-year US occupation of the island. A series of crimes including rapes, assaults, hit-and-run and drink-driving accidents by military personnel, dependants and civilians, has long sparked protests. In mid-June, tens of thousands rallied on the island to protest against the heavy US military presence and violent crimes by American personnel. UN security handover point of pride and fear in Liberia As Liberia's security forces take over Thursday from UN peacekeepers for the first time since civil war ended 13 years ago, national pride is mixed with fears the underfunded police are not up to the task. Government forces and rebel groups raped, maimed and massacred hundreds of thousands of people during two conflicts between 1989 and 2003, and the highly politicised police and army were disbanded after committing some of the worse abuses. Since then UN peacekeepers have largely ensured the country's security, though their numbers have dwindled from 15,000 in the aftermath of war to just under 4,000 today, as the nation's re-trained forces were assimilated. Liberian soldiers take part in a training excercise as the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) hands back security to Liberia's military and police Zoom Dosso (AFP) On Thursday UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon paid tribute to "the determination of the people and the Government of Liberia to work towards lasting peace," calling the handover a "major benchmark in the peace process." From this week UN peacekeepers will have a small supporting role only. "Everything I know about policing, I learned from UNMIL," said Dao Freeman, Liberia's national deputy police commissioner, using the mission's UN acronym. Freeman, a product of training that has attempted to instil an anti-corruption ethos and respect for human rights, believes the country has "quality not quantity" when it comes to keeping order on the streets. "If we continue to build that capacity and also provide the resources that are needed, I believe that we can take responsibility of our country's security," he told AFP. But citizens are far from convinced, scarred by the memory of forces loyal to former president Charles Taylor who razed whole villages and hunted down those who fled into the bush. On the eve of UNMIL's drawdown, the implications have set the country on edge, with radio and television chat shows buzzing with talk of little else. "I would prefer UNMIL to stay forever," John Gweh, a 56-year-old farmer, told AFP at his rubber plantation, flicking through a newspaper with its front page dominated by the same story. Aware of the high costs of the UN mission, Gweh said he was thankful for the international community's long intervention, but added he was still wary of the Liberian National Police (LNP) despite years of reform. "My greatest fear is how trustworthy our security forces are. Will they go back to the same old thing we were used to, treating civilians like animals? I am worried," Gweh added. - No cars, no uniforms - Liberia's police force is chronically underfunded, like many state services, with basic equipment in short supply, salaries paltry and the number of armed officers in the low hundreds of a 5,170-strong corps. "We need cars, we need communications and we need other items like uniforms," said Freeman. UNMIL has a $344-million (311-million euro) annual budget, while the government's draft national security budget for 2016/2017 is only about $90 million, pending approval from the legislature. This will likely worsen a situation in which three-quarters of Liberians reported paying a bribe to police in the last year, according to the most recent survey conducted by anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International. "When we say we are worried that UNMIL is leaving, people say they have trained our security (forces)," market seller Catherine Gayflor said at her stall in a market, in a suburb north of the Liberian capital. "But even with the presence of UNMIL we see how our police can be beating on us," she added, referring to officers' arbitrary confiscation of goods from vendors, an abuse long-documented by rights groups. The ratio of police to citizens will be around 1:1000, in a country with dire transport links and regions that remain under the influence of former warlords. "Yes, there are challenges," Information Minister Eugene Nagbe told AFP, downplaying concerns as "gaps that we still need to fill". Nagbe underlined that the military and police had worked alongside UNMIL for years, arguing that the core of the country's security was assured. "The national apparatus is ready to assume this great responsibility," he said decisively. "What we continue to do is to strengthen our apparatus in the areas of logistics, the areas of training, in the areas of compensation to the security forces." - Terrorism, election challenges - Liberians, like many west Africans, are increasingly concerned about the threat of terrorism in the region, although no groups have made particular threats against Africa's first democracy. Neighbouring Ivory Coast was hit by its first-ever jihadist attack in March, when Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb militants killed 19 people in Grand-Bassam, a beach resort town. Nagbe said the appointment of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to the head of regional grouping ECOWAS had "put national security and regional security at the top of her agenda." However, experts say the greatest challenges remain domestic, with some perceptions of the police unchanged since the war ended. In an interview with AFP, Saah R. Gbollie, an associate professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Liberia, said favouritism based on political affiliation still dogs the force. "The security sector has got to be depoliticised if we should move forward and be able achieve security sector reform," said Gbollie. "We should be sure that there is an independent complaints commission," along with an arbitration body for appointments, added the former top cop and ex-head of the Liberian parliament's security commission. This will be especially important ahead of next year's presidential election, he said, when the broadly unifying figure of Sirleaf will be absent. Liberia's police force is chronically underfunded, like many state services, with basic equipment in short supply, salaries paltry and the number of armed officers in the low hundreds of a 5,170-strong corps Zoom Dosso (AFP) UNMIL has a $344-million annual budget, while the Liberian government's draft national security budget for 2016/2017 is only about $90 million, pending approval Zoom Dosso (AFP) Boko Haram suicide bomber kills 11 in Cameroon A suicide bombing by a Boko Haram jihadist has killed 11 people in northern Cameroon, a provincial governor said Thursday, warning civilians not to breach special security measures aimed at preventing such attacks. It was the latest in a spate of raids blamed on the Nigeria-based Islamist militant group in the area, which have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes. A security source said the attacker blew himself up in the town of Djakana near the Nigerian border overnight. Soldiers from Chad patrol at the border between Nigeria and Cameroon, part of a military contingent battling the Islamist group Boko Haram Ali Kaya (AFP/File) "Seven people were killed immediately, including the bomber," the source said, adding that most of the victims were members of a local vigilante group tasked with hunting down Boko Haram fighters. "They were gathered in a video room when the attacker entered and triggered his explosives," the security source said. Midjiyawa Bakari, the governor of the region, told AFP that 11 people had died and four had been wounded. Bakari slammed "the imprudence of the youths running the video club," adding: "While such activities are forbidden, they take risks in showing films at night in the bush... "We are asking on the local population to wait until we give the go-ahead for the resumption of such activities, especially on the frontline," he said, referring to security measures put in place in the area in the wake of Boko Haram raids. Boko Haram's seven-year insurgency has left at least 20,000 people dead in Nigeria and border areas of neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon, and made more than 2.6 million homeless. Some 2,000 Chadian soldiers are set to launch a counter-offensive against the group in the region, as part of a fightback by the four countries targeted by the group. Boko Haram has regularly used women and children to stage suicide bombings, targeting mosques, markets, bus stations and checkpoints. But the overnight attack comes after a lull in violence in this border zone near Nigeria. - Humanitarian crisis - The UN humanitarian coordinator for Cameroon warned this month that unabated attacks by the jihadists had sparked food insecurity and driven 190,000 people from their homes thereby creating a fertile ground for recruitment by Boko Haram. Najat Rochdi had told AFP in an interview that Boko Haram members were attacking villages and food supply routes as well as burning homes and fields across northern Cameroon on a daily basis. She said that in the last six months alone, the number of Cameroonians displaced within their own country had jumped from 60,000 to 190,000. In addition, Cameroon is hosting 60,000 refugees from Nigeria and another 312,000 from the Central African Republic, amounting to more than 500,000 displaced people in all. The number at risk of going hungry has soared from 900,000 to 2.4 million since January. "It is a kind of silent crisis, which is really the danger," Rochdi said, warning that if humanitarian needs are not addressed in Cameroon, "we will see a radicalisation" of young people in the country. "If people are not left with some hope, the only alternative for them is Boko Haram," she cautioned. There is a gaping budgetary gap with only 30 percent of the requested $280 million (248-million-euro) humanitarian aid budget for Cameroon this year funded so far. According to the UN, some 250 children recruited or abducted by Boko Haram in Cameroon have meanwhile managed to escape over the past nine months, according to the UN. Some of them were girls who had been raped daily. Air strikes decimate IS forces fleeing Iraq's Fallujah Iraqi and US-led coalition aircraft decimated the Islamic State group's forces fleeing the Fallujah area, destroying hundreds of vehicles and killing dozens of jihadists, officials said on Thursday. Fallujah, a city west of Baghdad, was wrested from IS by Iraqi forces on Sunday after more than two years under the group's control. The strikes -- which the Iraqi government said took place from Wednesday to Thursday -- compounded what was already a major defeat for the jihadists. Smoke rises in the city of Fallujah on June 30, 2016 as Iraqi forces destroy a booby-trapped building after recapturing the city from Islamic State (IS) jihadists Ahmad Al-Rubaye (AFP) The Pentagon estimated that coalition strikes destroyed some 175 IS vehicles, while Iraq's Joint Operations Command said the country's forces destroyed 603. Those figures could not be independently confirmed. "Over the last two days, the Iraqi security forces and the coalition conducted strikes against two large concentrations of (IS) vehicles and fighters," Pentagon spokesman Matthew Allen said. Allen said the coalition destroyed an estimated 55 vehicles from a convoy that gathered in areas southwest of Fallujah and a further 120 in an area northwest of the city. "We know the Iraqi security forces destroyed more," he said. Iraq's Joint Operations Command said the air force destroyed 96 vehicles and killed "a large group" of fighters from June 29 to 30, while army aviation destroyed 507 and killed "dozens" over the same period. While the JOC did not provide precise figures for the number of jihadists killed in Iraqi strikes, it said coalition bombing left 349 dead. - Massive IS convoys - It was not clear how the dead were counted and identified. The defence ministry released aerial footage showing dozens of vehicles being targeted, and JOC spokesman Yahya Rasool said commandos had also seized large quantities of weapons and ammunition. The strikes targeted massive convoys of IS vehicles including pickup trucks, minibuses and cars. "This is a desperate attempt on the part of the terrorists to flee to their areas in Al-Qaim near the Syrian border and Tharthar," said Anbar Operations Command chief Staff Major General Ismail al-Mahalawi. Tharthar is a lake north of the Euphrates surrounded by desert through which IS fighters still have lines to reach Mosul, the country's second city and their last remaining major Iraqi hub. Iraqi forces retook full control of Fallujah, just 50 kilometres (30 miles) west of Baghdad, after a vast operation that was launched in May. After tough battles to breach IS defences in south Fallujah, elite Iraqi forces conquered the rest of the city with relative ease. They took full control of the city on Sunday after IS fighters abandoned the Jolan neighbourhood and retreated to rural areas to the west. The account of the air strikes provided by the JOC suggests IS fighters had no choice but to attempt a suicidal convoy that they knew would leave them exposed to air strikes. According to Rasool and other military sources, the first strikes broke up a massive initial convoy that stretched several kilometres (miles). - 'A great victory' - Some left their vehicles and hid in a spot which was subsequently struck by Iraqi aircraft, resulting in a very high death toll, he said. Fragments of the convoy were able to move on and some more vehicles were destroyed in subsequent strikes. "We achieved a great victory by killing dozens of militants and the leaders of this organisation who tried to flee after their defeat," Rasool said. The JOC said the majority of the strikes were carried out by Iraqi aircraft and that US-led coalition warplanes joined the operation later. It was not immediately clear whether some IS militants were able to survive the aerial onslaught and reach their strongholds near Syria. The strikes appear to spell the end of fixed IS positions in eastern Anbar province, further shrinking the "caliphate" the group proclaimed over large parts of Iraq and Syria two years ago. After losing the provincial capital Ramadi, as well as the towns of Heet and Rutba, defeat in Fallujah means the jihadist footprint in their traditional stronghold of Anbar is limited to areas near the Syrian border. Iraqi forces are now training their sights on Mosul and pressing simultaneous operations from the south and the east of Qayyarah, a town in the Tigris valley they want to use as a launchpad for a full-fledged offensive on IS's de facto Iraqi capital. Iraqi forces have recaptured Fallujah from IS after more than two years under the group's control Burned out vehicles are seen in the city of Fallujah following battles between Iraqi pro-government forces and Islamic State (IS) group jihadists, on June 30, 2016 Ahmad Al-Rubaye (AFP) A member of the Iraqi police forces holds an Islamic State (IS) flag in a street in Fallujah on June 30, 2016 Ahmad Al-Rubaye (AFP) Mongolia vote landslide stinging rejection of government policy A landslide election victory by Mongolia's opposition is a stinging rejection of the government's failed economic policies, analysts and voters said Thursday, as the country struggles to turn its vast natural resources into national wealth. The Mongolian People's Party (MPP) won 65 out of 76 seats in the State Great Hural parliament, leaving the ruling Democratic Party (DP) in single figures with a mere nine spots, the election commission announced early Thursday. Among the casualties was outgoing prime minister Chimediin Saikhanbileg, who lost his own Bayanzurkh seat in Ulan Bator to a virtual unknown. A man casts his vote in Mandalgovi in the Gobi desert, Mongolia on June 29, 2016 Johannes Eisele (AFP) "I voted for the MPP because the DP used their power only for their own good," said Magsarjaviin Bold, 46, a construction worker in the capital. "They are mostly businessmen and did things that only profited them." Billions of dollars' worth of natural resources lie buried beneath Mongolia's sprawling steppes, drawing the attention of multinational mining giants such as Anglo-Australian Rio Tinto, which has a multi-billion-dollar copper and gold project at Oyu Tolgoi. But development has been delayed for years by disputes over the role of foreign investment, while slowing growth in Mongolia's biggest customer China has done nothing to help, and the ruling party paid the price for an anaemic economy. In 2011, the year before the DP came to power, Mongolia's GDP rose a world-leading 17.3 percent. By last year expansion had slumped to 2.3 percent. Marissa Smith, a Mongolia expert at De Anza College in San Francisco, told AFP: "There has been a shift since the last election away from blaming foreigners towards blaming Mongolian politicians and other elites for the failure of Oyu Tolgoi and (coal project) Tavan Tolgoi to have met expectations." - 'Wrong direction' - Turnout was 72 percent and 13 women were elected, up from 11 last time, despite a cut to a quota for female candidates. Pre-election polling by the International Republican Institute (IRI) showed that over 60 percent of Mongolians felt their country was "headed in the wrong direction", a sentiment driven by concern over corruption and the government's inability to transform resources into new jobs. "Voters were very clear with their ballots... they wanted change," said IRI's country director Ashleigh Whelan, adding that the victory will give the MPP an overwhelming majority in the legislature: "Any initiative that they want to pass... they'll pass it." After the scale of the MPP's victory emerged, party chairman Miyegombiin Enkhbold vowed to put the country back on track, saying it would "do our best to fix the economic and social downturns." But while the MPP was the ruling party during Mongolia's Communist era and the DP guided it to its democratic present, many Mongolians see little difference between the two parties and how much will change remains unclear. Both ran virtually identical campaigns, focused on the importance of job creation through resource development, but short on practicalities. "Our political parties don't really have a political ideology that unites them," said Mogi Badral Bontoi, CEO of market intelligence firm Cover Mongolia. "Politicians join their parties not because of their political ideology... but which party gives them the best chance to gain power, gain influence." The election result was "tentatively positive" for foreign miners, which also include Chinese state-owned coal giant Shenhua, said Greg Kwan of the Economist Intelligence Unit in a research note, as the new government was unlikely to reverse "a recent shift to a more friendly stance". Mogi hoped the next government would be "much more focused on the economy than China", he said, "less populist, less nationalist, less protectionist". Not all MPP supporters agree. "I don't want the new government to sell Mongolian natural riches for lower prices to foreigners," said Zagdiin Sesemjav, a 62-year old pensioner who backed the party. "That is giving them away," she said. "Most income must come to Mongolia, not foreign companies." Factfile on Mongolia Gal Roma (AFP) Villagers leave a polling station after voting in parliamentary elections in Mandalgovi, in Mongolia's middle Gobi province on June 29, 2016 Johannes Eisele (AFP) Herder Shagdarjaviiu Batsargal carries an injured sheep near Luusiin in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia Johannes Eisele (AFP) South Sudan ceasefire monitors warn of violence Ceasefire monitors in war-torn South Sudan warned Thursday of "appalling" violence in breach of a peace deal, as rivals battle despite the formation of a unity government in the world's youngest nation. "The recent incidents and clashes in various parts of the country are clear indication of the fragility of the security situation," said Molla Hailemariam, an Ethiopian major-general heading the internationally backed ceasefire monitoring team. Civil war erupted in South Sudan in December 2013 but rebel chief Riek Machar returned to the capital in April as part of a peace deal which saw him become vice president, forging a unity government with President Salva Kiir. Civil war erupted in South Sudan in December 2013 and despite a peace deal fighting between the rival sides and militia groups continues in the war-torn nation. Albert Gonzalez Farran (AFP) Fighting continues, including between multiple militia forces who now pay no heed to either Kiir or Machar. Molla, in a speech in the capital Juba, said he was "deeply concerned" at recent fighting with "limited progress" in implementing the peace deal. Clashes have taken place across the country. "It is worrisome that violence continued to occur, as evidenced by the clashes that broke out in Kajo-Keji, Central Equatoria, Raja, Western Bahr El Ghazal, Leer, Unity State and the most recent and appalling fighting in Wau, Western Bahr El Ghazal last week," Molla said. Gunmen also shot at two cars belonging to troops loyal to Machar in Juba, Molla said. The two sides are deadlocked over where troops from their respective armies should gather -- designated cantonment sites where troops are meant to surrender weapons -- and are arguing over the number of states. Last year Kiir ordered the number of regional states be nearly tripled to 28, undermining a fundamental pillar of the power-sharing deal. Over a third of South Sudanese face starvation and the risk of a full-blown famine remains, the UN and government warned on Wednesday. Nearly five million people -- more than ever before -- need food aid to survive. Iran 'to hang two Afghans' for rape of French hiker Iran sentenced to death two Afghans convicted of raping a French tourist hiking in the high mountains just north of Tehran, a government newspaper reported on Thursday. Two other defendants, who absconded during the trial, remain at large, the Iran daily said. Both men convicted had pleaded not guilty to the charge of raping the 24-year-old tourist as she was hiking in the Farahzad district on September 19 last year. Two Afghan men sentenced to death for raping a 24-year-old French tourist as she was hiking north of Tehran on September 19 last year had pleaded not guilty Atta Kenare (AFP/File) She was rescued by a fifth Afghan. The court fined a sixth Afghan for helping the two absconders to flee the country, the government daily said. UN extends Darfur mission despite Sudan opposition The UN Security Council has extended the mandate of an international peacekeeping force in Darfur for a year despite fierce opposition from the Sudanese government. On Wednesday, the Security Council extended the mandate of the UN-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) to June 30 next year, saying that the situation in Sudan threatened global peace and security. About 18,000 troops and police from more than 30 countries will continue to deploy as part of the peacekeeping mission in Darfur, a region the size of France where tens of thousands of civilians have been killed since 2003. About 18,000 troops and police from more than 30 countries will continue to deploy as part of the peacekeeping mission in Darfur Asharf Shazly (AFP/File) The UNAMID mission was first deployed in Darfur in 2007, a compromise between Western calls for a fully-fledged UN peacekeeping mission and Khartoum's insistence on an African solution. The Security Council decided to extend its mandate after "determining that the situation in Sudan constitutes a threat to international peace and security," said the resolution adopted on Wednesday. The extension had been recommended in a report by UN chief Ban Ki-moon and African Union Commission chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma. In the run-up to the vote, Khartoum had expressed stiff opposition. Last month, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Kamal Ismail said: "It's time to say goodbye to the UNAMID mission." Khartoum insists that unrest in Darfur has ended, and that an April referendum in Darfur -- boycotted by the opposition and widely criticised by the international community -- had "turned a page" on the conflict. Officials said almost 98 percent of voters opted to maintain Darfur as five separate states, not the single region favoured by the opposition. Violence erupted in Darfur when ethnic minority rebels rose up against President Omar al-Bashir, accusing his Arab-dominated government of marginalising the region. Bashir mounted a brutal counter-insurgency and at least 300,000 people have been killed in the conflict, the UN says. Another 2.5 million have fled their homes. Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court on war crimes charges related to Darfur, which he denies. The Security Council said that Darfur remains prey to insecurity. It said Darfur continued to witness attacks by rebel groups and government forces in the central Jebel Marra highlands, inter-tribal fighting, banditry and crime. It said "sexual and gender-based violence targeting women and girls" also affected the region. The Security Council noted that 80,000 people fled their homes in the first five months of the year adding to hundreds of thousands of displaced people already living in camps. "The continued denial of access and restrictions imposed on humanitarian actors have left signficant gaps in the delivery of humanitarian assistance," it said. There have been persistent reports of violence in recent months. Earlier this month, gunmen killed four people at a camp for displaced people in Central Darfur. In May, Arab tribesmen shot dead eight ethnic minority villagers as they prayed, in a revenge killing in West Darfur. Vietnam says Taiwanese steel mill to pay $500mn for pollution A Taiwanese steel mill has agreed to pay $500 million compensation for discharging pollution that decimated Vietnam's fishing industry in several central provinces this year, officials said Thursday. Tonnes of dead fish, including rare species that live far offshore, began washing up along Vietnam's central coastline in April and activists have been demanding answers ever since. After weeks of investigation, Vietnamese officials laid the blame on Formosa, a Taiwanese conglomerate that is building a multi-billion-dollar steel plant in the area where the fish died. A villager shows dead fish he collected on a beach in Phu Loc district, in the central province of Thua Thien Hue in April "Violation and mistakes" in building the Formosa plant caused the pollution and "abnormal mass fish deaths", according to Mai Tien Dung, chairman of the government's office. The plant is still under construction. Dung said Formosa, which has a history of environmental scandals spanning the globe, has agreed to pay $500 million in compensation for the incident, which hammered the local seafood industry and sparked public outcry. Vietnamese authorities have come under pressure to show that foreign investors are not ushered in without controls. "I reaffirm we will not trade the environment just to attract foreign investment," Dang Huy Dong, deputy minister of planning and investment, told reporters. Formosa is no stranger to controversy in Vietnam, where anti-China riots at its Ha Tinh steel plant killed three in 2014 and a scaffolding collapse killed 14 last year. The company's scandals also stretch from Texas to Taipei, where the conglomerate has paid millions of dollars in fines over environmental mishaps. Taiwan's Formosa Plastics Group, which is a major shareholder of Formosa Ha Tinh Steel Corporation, said it could not immediately confirm the $500-million payment but would issue a statement on the matter later Thursday. But a representative of their Vietnamese operations, Tran Nguyen Thanh, apologised for the "environmental incident" and said the firm was ready to pay an unspecified amount of compensation "in terms of the economy, for the people... and dealing with the pollution". Lawmakers in Taipei warned this month that a firm link between Formosa and Vietnam's fish deaths could damage Taiwan's efforts to bolster economic ties across Southeast Asia as the island looks to ease its economic reliance on China. Frustration over Vietnam's perceived reluctance to blame Formosa led to rallies across the country, with police stepping in to arrest scores of demonstrators. Formosa drew ire in April when a public relations officer in Vietnam said the country had to choose between protecting marine life or foreign investment. Mideast Quartet gives Israel, Palestinians 'wakeup call' A much-awaited report by the Middle East diplomatic quartet should serve as a "wakeup call" to Israel to halt the expansion of settlements and to the Palestinians to renounce violence, the UN envoy said Thursday. Nickolay Mladenov said ongoing Israeli construction in the West Bank was one of three "negative trends" that must be quickly reversed to keep the hope of an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal alive. Violence and incitement, settlements and the Palestinian Authority's lack of control over the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip "severely undermine hopes for peace," Mladenov said. Buildings under construction in the Israeli settlement of Har Homa, in annexed east Jerusalem Thomas Coex (AFP/File) "These negative trends can and must be urgently reversed in order to advance the two-state solution on the ground," he told the Security Council. The 10-page report prepared by the quartet -- the United States, European Union, Russia and the United Nations -- is to be released on Friday after several delays. Its findings and recommendations are to serve as the basis for reviving the Israeli-Palestinian peace process that has been comatose since a US initiative collapsed in April 2014. In an interview with AFP, Mladenov said he hoped the report would prompt both sides and world leaders to take action to revive the peace process. "Certainly I would hope that this report would serve as a wakeup call," he said. "We can't leave this the way it is. We simply can't." There has been growing alarm that ongoing violence and the construction of Jewish settlements on land earmarked to be part of a future Palestinian state are killing off prospects for a peace deal. - Time for action - Mladenov, a Bulgarian diplomat who has served as the UN's Middle East coordinator since 2015, said both the Israelis and the Palestinians will receive recommendations on steps they can take to address all three tracks -- violence, settlements and Hamas rule in Gaza. "Certainly we want action, on all fronts," said Mladenov. "These are parallel trends that are happening as we speak and they are all in of themselves causes of trouble." The report "will not be a score card for assigning blame," but rather the consensus view of the quartet powers on what needs to be done to revive prospects for a two-state solution, he said. As the council discussed the new peace plan, a Palestinian attacker stabbed and killed a 13-year-old girl in her home in a Jewish settlement in the West Bank. The State Department confirmed she was a US citizen. Israeli-Palestinian violence since October has killed at least 211 Palestinians and 33 Israelis, as well as five foreigners. Mladenov declined to say how long it might take to relaunch peace talks, but he argued that a return to negotiations was the only course of action. "Endless occupation is a recipe for disaster" that will lead to a "perpetual lack of security and violence," he told AFP. The UN envoy asked the Security Council to endorse the report recommendations in a move that would turn the document into an internationally-agreed roadmap for Israeli-Palestinian peace. French Ambassador Francois Delattre said the report could help advance plans for a Paris peace conference on the Middle East later this year. "The French initiative and the quartet report mutually reinforce each other and have a common goal to put the peace process back on track," Delattre said. France has set up working groups that will draw up a list of incentives for both the Israelis and the Palestinians to come to the table for talks. US human trafficking downgrade 'regrettable': Myanmar Myanmar's new civilian government rebuffed a United States decision to brand the country as one of the world's worst human trafficking offenders on Friday, calling the move "regrettable" at a time when the nascent democracy is finding its feet. The US State Department downgraded Myanmar in its annual human trafficking report Thursday, putting the former junta-run country into the lowest "Tier 3" category for failing to combat people smuggling and slavery. Years of poverty and corruption under Myanmar's former military rulers have fastened the Southeast Asian nation as a major source of forced labour and sex trafficking. The US State Department downgraded Myanmar in its annual human trafficking report, putting the country into the lowest "Tier 3" category for failing to combat people smuggling and slavery Januar (AFP/File) Democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi is now leading Myanmar's first civilian government in nearly half a century, with strong support from Washington, who lifted a host of economic sanctions in May. But the trafficking downgrade comes after the country spent the four years on the "Tier 2 watch list" -- the maximum period it can be allowed under US law to improve its practices or be demoted to the third tier. On Friday Myanmar's Foreign Ministry described Washington's decision as "regrettable... at a time when the new democratic government is stepping up its efforts to protect its migrant workers and victims of human trafficking and forced labour". But human rights groups welcomed the move, calling it long overdue. "The military is an unreformed institution, continues to use forced labour with impunity, and needs to do more to end the practice," said Matthew Smith, the director of Fortify Rights. The 2016 State Department report noted that people across Myanmar are subject to exploitation, but stressed that the Rohingya, a stateless Muslim minority, are "particularly vulnerable to sex and labor trafficking in Rakhine State, including forced labor perpetrated by government authorities". Tens of thousands of Rohingya have been relegated to squalid displacement camps ever since religious violence tore through their Buddhist-majority state in 2012. Scores have fled the troubled region on rickety boats bound for Muslim-majority Malaysia. But many fall into the hands of traffickers who detain and abuse the migrants in Thai jungle camps until their relatives pay release ransoms. An unprecedented Thai crackdown last year saw more than 90 alleged traffickers arrested and has slowed the tide of dangerous sea crossings. Thailand was bumped up to Tier 2 in this year's report after spending two years in the lowest category -- a move welcomed by the country's ruling junta but criticised as premature by rights groups. "We are looking for big fish," Thailand's Foreign Minister, Don Pramudwinai, said Friday of the country's effort to arrest trafficking bosses. He said the number of trafficking trials increased this past year to 317, compared to 212 the previous year. US Secretary of State John Kerry speaks during the release of the 2016 Trafficking in Persons Report on June 30, 2016 at the State Department in Washington, DC Mandel Ngan (AFP) At least 70 killed in north of Syria's Aleppo: monitor At least 70 regime and rebel fighters have been killed in 24 hours in a government assault and a jihadist-led counterattack in northern Syria, a monitor said Thursday. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said 30 regime soldiers and 39 rebel fighters had been killed in battles around Al-Maleh, north of Aleppo, since Wednesday afternoon. Jihadists fighting for the Al-Nusra Front, the Syrian branch of Al-Qaeda, were also killed, said Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman, who did not provide a precise number. Syrian army soldiers patrol in government-controlled Aleppo's al-Khalidiya area where the army progressed towards the industrial zone of al-Layramoun and Bani Zeid on June 28, 2016 Georges Ourfalian (AFP/File) The government of President Bashar al-Assad has been attempting to seize Al-Maleh for more than two years. His forces have been trying for months to surround Aleppo by cutting supply lines between rebel-held districts of the city and nearby Turkey, which supports opposition forces. For nearly a week, regime troops backed by Syrian and Russian warplanes have been battling for control of Al-Maleh. Assad's regime is also attempting to cut the Castello Road, a key supply route from the Turkish border to rebel-held eastern suburbs of Aleppo. The pro-regime website Al-Masdar News reported that the Syrian army withdrew from the farms of Al-Maleh as they faced a rebel counter-offensive led by the Al-Nusra Front. It said rebels attacked government forces with two suicide car bombs. The Observatory said two children were killed by regime bombs in a rebel-held area of Aleppo. The majority of Aleppo province is controlled by Al-Nusra and its Islamist allies, while the city, the country's pre-war commercial capital, has been divided since July 2012 into rebel-held and regime-held areas. Five civilians including three children were also killed by regime bombs that landed on eastern Ghouta, the Observatory reported on Thursday. Egypt priest killed in IS-claimed attack An Egyptian Coptic priest was shot dead Thursday in the Sinai Peninsula where authorities are battling a jihadist insurgency, officials said, in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group. The violence came as the country marked the third anniversary of mass protests that prompted the military to overthrow Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, unleashing a crackdown on dissent and a jihadist insurgency. The priest, Raphael Moussa, 46, died instantly when a man shot him in the head as he was standing next to his car in El-Arish, the capital of North Sinai, said Boulos Halim, a church spokesman. Copts, who make up about 10 percent of Egypt's population of 90 million, have faced persecution and discrimination that spiked during the 30-year rule of Hosni Mubarak, who was toppled by a popular uprising in 2011. Mohamed El-Shahed (AFP) The Islamic State group's Egypt branch claimed responsibility for the murder in a statement posted on social media, accusing him of "combating Islam". Moussa had earlier left a church where he attended mass, Halim said. The interior ministry said the priest was gunned down after having gone to an area of El-Arish with mechanics to have his car repaired. The IS affiliate in restive Sinai has waged an insurgency that has killed hundreds of policemen and soldiers. It has kept up the attacks, mostly roadside bombings and ambushes, despite a massive military campaign to uproot jihadists from the eastern peninsula bordering Israel and the Palestinian Gaza Strip. Moussa was not the first priest killed in Arish. Mina Aboud, a fellow priest, was shot dead on July 6, 2013, three days after the military toppled Egypt's Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, unleashing clashes and a crackdown on his supporters. Pro-Islamists attacked and torched dozens of churches and Christian properties a month later, after police killed hundreds of Morsi supporters in Cairo clashes. They accused the Coptic minority of supporting the overthrow of Morsi, whom the army deposed after millions of Egyptians rallied to demand his resignation. Leading Muslim clerics, as well as the opposition and the Coptic Orthodox Church, supported his overthrow after a year of divisive rule. Apart from Christians and security forces, jihadists in Sinai have also targeted Muslims they accuse of working with the government. The group has also carried out attacks in the country's western desert and along the long border with Libya, which is also used by weapons and drug smugglers. On Thursday, the military said "armed smugglers" killed six soldiers in an exchange of fire. Jihadists have attacked foreign tourists and beheaded a Croatian oil worker after abducting him near Cairo. IS claimed responsibility for last October's bombing of a Russian airliner carrying holidaymakers from a resort in southern Sinai, killing all 224 people on board. "The whole situation in El-Arish and North Sinai is under threat," said Halim. "Many people (Christians) have left." Copts, who make up about 10 percent of Egypt's 90-million population, faced persecution and discrimination during the 30-year rule of president Hosni Mubarak, who was toppled by a popular uprising in 2011. Dozens have been killed in sectarian attacks and clashes across Egypt. US adds Al-Qaeda South Asia affiliate to 'terror' list The United States added Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent, a regional branch of the global extremist network, to its terror blacklist on Thursday. The State Department designated AQIS a "foreign terrorist organization" and its leader, Indian-born Asim Umar, a "specially designated global terrorist." Al-Qaeda, the jihadist movement founded by the late Osama bin Laden, has long been a banned group, but Thursday's order singles out a relatively new offshoot. In September 2014, Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, pictured on June 6, 2013, announced the formation of Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent to carry the group's fight to India, Pakistan and Bangladesh Bin Laden's successor, Egyptian Islamist ideologue Ayman al-Zawahiri, announced the formation of AQIS in September 2014 to carry the group's fight to India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Since then, the group has claimed responsibility for a number of deadly and sometimes spectacular attacks, which may explain the US decision to list it separately. Under the new designation, if investigators tie any assets or property under US jurisdiction to the group or its leader, they will be frozen. In addition, US citizens are forbidden from having any dealings with the group on pain of prosecution. In a statement announcing the order, the State Department said AQIS had claimed responsibility for the September 6, 2014 attack on a Pakistani naval dockyard. The attack left one Pakistani officer and three attackers dead, while seven sailors were wounded as the militants attempted to hijack a docked frigate. More recently, the group claimed the killings of several Bangladeshi atheists, gay rights activists, bloggers, US citizen Avijit Roy and US embassy employee Xulhaz Mannan. Umar, who has appeared in Al-Qaeda propaganda as the AQIS leader, is a shadowy figure. He is thought to be based in Pakistan but, according to the US Treasury sanctions list, was born between 1974 and 1976 in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India. Britain's Corbyn under fire over Israel comments Embattled British opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn came under fire Thursday for allegedly comparing the state of Israel to "self-styled Islamic states." Britain's chief rabbi condemned the comments, made at the launch of a report on anti-Semitism in the party, as "offensive" and said they were likely to cause more concern about Labour's stance. Veteran socialist Corbyn is clinging to office despite a huge revolt by Labour lawmakers who say he did not campaign hard enough to keep Britain in the EU in last week's vote for Brexit. The leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn leaves his home in London on June 30, 2016 Leon Neal (AFP) "Our Jewish friends are no more responsible for the actions of Israel or the Netanyahu government than our Muslim friends are for those of various self-styled Islamic states or organisations," said Corbyn. Amid a barrage of criticism, Corbyn denied comparing Israel with the so-called Islamic State (IS) group. But Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said: "The comments by the leader of the Labour party at the launch, however they were intended, are themselves offensive, and rather than rebuilding trust among the Jewish community, are likely to cause even greater concern." Labour commissioned the report in response to multiple allegations of anti-Semitism among its members. In the most high-profile case, former London mayor Ken Livingstone was suspended from the party after saying that Adolf Hitler "was supporting Zionism" before he "went mad and ended up killing six million Jews". Livingstone's comments were in defence of a Labour MP who was suspended for sharing posts on social media two years ago suggesting that the solution to the Palestinian conflict was to move Israel to the United States. While criticising Corbyn's comments in a statement posted on his Twitter account, the chief rabbi welcomed the report itself. Its recommendations included that Labour members should "resist the use of Hitler, Nazi and Holocaust metaphors" and avoid terms such as "Paki" and "Zio". US military lifts ban on transgender personnel Transgender personnel will no longer be barred from serving openly in the US military, the Pentagon announced Thursday -- a major milestone that immediately drew fire from Republican lawmakers. Lifting the ban on transgender service members is "the right thing to do, and it's another step in ensuring that we continue to recruit and retain the most qualified people," Defense Secretary Ashton Carter told reporters. "Good people are the key to the best military in the world." The U.S. military has announced it will now pay for gender reassignment surgery for transgender soldiers (US Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter lifted the ban on transgender troops in June) The move is the latest in a series of Pentagon personnel reforms under Carter, who has repeatedly stressed the need for the military to modernize to draw from as deep a talent pool as possible. He last year ordered all military roles -- including combat positions -- to be opened to women, and has overseen benefits changes to make the military more family friendly. As recently as five years ago, the US military still banned gay troops from openly discussing their sexuality under a "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy. Today, the Army has an openly gay man, Eric Fanning, working as the service's highest civilian leader. The new transgender policy will be phased in during a one-year period, but the military can no longer discharge or deny reenlistment to troops based solely on their gender identity, effective immediately. By July 1 next year, the services will begin allowing transgender personnel to sign up, assuming they have met the necessary physical and mental standards to do so, the Pentagon said. Under the new policy, the Pentagon will cover medical expenses related to being transgender, including gender reassignment surgeries when these are deemed "medically necessary." - Republican scorn - Republican Congressman Mac Thornberry, who chairs the House Armed Services Committee, said the move could lead to troops not being ready to deploy for medical reasons. "This is the latest example of the Pentagon and the president prioritizing politics over policy," Thornberry said. "Our military readiness -- and hence, our national security -- is dependent on our troops being medically ready and deployable." Republican Senator Jim Inhofe, who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the move was a distraction. "Our military is facing historic readiness shortfalls, putting our service members' lives at greater risk. Addressing this crisis should be the sole focus of the Obama administration, but instead they continue to be more interested in forcing their social agenda," Inhofe said. The US military has about 1.3 million service members. According to a RAND study, about 2,500 of these active-duty service members are transgender, as well as about 1,500 out of approximately 825,000 reserve troops. The new policy allows transgender troops "to continue to serve without living a lie, and provides much-needed clarity to commanders who for years have been stuck in the middle of a confusing policy," Democratic Senator Dick Durbin said. The military will start paying for transgender-related medical treatment no later than October 1. Officials said the overall costs are negligible. At least 18 countries already allow transgender personnel to serve openly in their militaries, Carter said, including Britain, Israel and Australia. Lifting the ban on transgender service members in the US military is the latest in a series of Pentagon personnel reforms under Defense Secretary Ashton Carter Shah Marai (AFP/File) Reagans' Sinatra, Thatcher gifts to be shown in London Personal effects owned by Ronald and Nancy Reagan, including gifts from Frank Sinatra and Margaret Thatcher, are to go on display in London on Friday before being offered for auction. Reagan, who died in 2004, has become one of the most revered modern US presidents. When his widow Nancy died in March, Hollywood stars and political powerbrokers attended her funeral in California. Christie's is auctioning items from the couple's personal collection in New York on September 21-22, including jewelry, art, books and furnishings from their Los Angeles home and their time at the White House. Personal effects owned by Ronald and Nancy Reagan are to go on display in London on Friday before being offered for auction by Christie's in New York Stan Honda (AFP/File) Items to go on view in London include a diamond and gold lion necklace, valued at $30,000-50,000, and matching ear clips worth $15,000-20,000, which Nancy Reagan wore on a state visit to Britain in 1988. Also earmarked for display is a $5,000-10,000 marine chronometer, which Sinatra and his wife had engraved with "Good Morning Mr President" and dedicated "Love Francis and Barbara" for his inauguration in 1981. Christie's said it would also display a $1,000-2,000 pair of Elizabeth II silver beakers inscribed "With love, from Margaret and Denis Thatcher." Britain's first woman prime minister, who was already in power when Reagan took office, was arguably his closet foreign ally. Some of the Reagans' American, English and Chinese furnishings will go on view in New York before the September 21-22 sale, Christie's said. The auction house valued individual lots from $1,000 to $50,000 and expects the auction to fetch more than $2 million. All proceeds will go to The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. Ronald Reagan served from 1981-89 and oversaw the end of the Cold War nuclear stand-off between the United States and the Soviet Union. US on track to take in 10,000 Syrian refugees: official The United States has ramped up refugee processing and is now likely to meet the administration's goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees by October 1, a senior official told Congress Thursday. Citing the humanitarian crisis triggered by Syria's brutal civil war, President Barack Obama had called for a dramatic increase in the number of Syrian refugees resettled in America in fiscal year 2016. But bureaucratic red tape, terror fears, concerns about inadequate security checks and congressional efforts to block refugee flows had left the process far behind in meeting the president's goal. Syrian refugees watch a play at an unofficial refugee camp in the Lebanese village of Bar Elias on June 22, 2016 Joseph Eid (AFP/File) Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson however said Washington had "added security checks to the process where they are warranted" and overcome early hurdles. The United States has "just about crossed the 5,000 mark" in terms of Syrian refugees, he told a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. He said 5,000 to 6,000 more have been "conditionally approved" for US resettlement, subject to security checks. "So I believe we will make the 10,000," Johnson said. After last year's terror attacks in Paris, critics including presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump have warned that the Islamic State was seeking to infiltrate the United States through poorly monitored refugee flows. Earlier this month in congressional testimony, CIA director John Brennan warned that the extremist group "is probably exploring a variety of means" to get operatives into the West, "including in refugee flows, smuggling routes, and legitimate methods of travel." Trump has seized on the issue, demanding an immediate end to US refugee admissions from Middle Eastern nations until a better vetting system is established. "Our country has enough difficulty right now without letting the Syrians pour in," Trump said in a National Border Patrol Council podcast earlier this month. "They could be ISIS. They could be who knows. But we're going to stop that immediately." Democratic White House hopeful Hillary Clinton said last year that Washington should expand the Syrian resettlement program to 65,000 refugees. Trump has warned voters that Clinton planned to spend hundreds of billions of dollars to resettle Middle Eastern refugees in the United States, or enough money to "rebuild every inner city in America," he said last week in a New York speech. Ten held in Burkina over West Africa jihadist attacks Authorities in Burkina Faso have arrested 10 people over a jihadist attack on a hotel and cafe in the capital and a separate rampage at a resort in neighbouring Ivory Coast, the interior minister said Thursday. Three of those being held are suspected of involvement in both the January 15 attack on the Splendid Hotel and Cappuccino cafe in Burkina's capital Ouagadougou and the bloodshed at the Grand Bassam resort across the border on March 13, minister Simon Compaore said. Thirty people were killed when gunmen stormed the four-star hotel and nearby cafe in Ouagadougou, while 19 were killed when gunman opened fire on a beach and bars in Grand Bassam. Burkina Faso's Interior Minister Simon Compaore speaks on June 30, 2016 in Ouagadougou during a press conference on attack claimed by Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (dQIM) at the Splendid Hotel and cafe Capuccino Ahmed Ouoba (AFP) The Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) group behind a string of attacks in west Africa in recent years claimed responsibility for the two strikes, along with a bloody hostage-taking at a top hotel in Mali in November, in which 20 people were killed. In both cases, the jihadists targeted venues popular with Westerners. Compaore said the top three suspects have also been linked to an attack in August 2015 on police in the northern Burkina town of Oursi, near the borders with Mali and Niger. There were no fatalities in that incident. One of the three "left Mali, did Niger, Burkina and then continued onto Ivory Coast," Compaore said. A total of 49 people of "various nationalities" were questioned over the various attacks, 39 of whom were later released for lack of evidence, Compaore said. A foreign woman, whose brother acted as driver for the jihadists in both Ouagadougou and Grand Bassam was among those arrested. Six others including the driver, all of whom are known to the intelligence services, are still being sought in connection with the Ouagadougou attack, the minister added. Compaore said the suspects were apprehended on the basis of information supplied by his services as well as those in Ivory Coast, Mali and Niger -- neighbours of Burkina Faso -- and Algeria, which has decades of experience fighting Islamist radicals. "Each country has a database of dangerous terrorist elements and in exchanging (information), we cross-checked and (found) that there were names that came up both in Ivory Coast and here over the attacks in Grand Bassam, on the Cappuccino (cafe) and Splendid Hotel," he said. US boosting security for July 4th holiday US authorities are increasing domestic security for the Independence Day holiday weekend, especially at airports and other transport hubs following the deadly attack in Istanbul, a senior official said Thursday. "The American public should expect to see, this July 4th weekend, an enhanced security presence at airports, train stations and other transit centers across the country by TSA (Transportation Security Administration) and state and local law enforcement," Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson told lawmakers. Johnson made reference to the boosted efforts following the suicide attacks Tuesday at Turkey's main airport that left 44 people dead, and heightened concerns about international attacks by extremist groups including the Islamic State. With the summer season in full swing, Americans are bracing for longer-than-usual security checkpoint lines, a concern that erupted last month when long wait times led to more missed flights and visible public anger over the screening delays Spencer Platt (Getty/AFP/File) Johnson said one US citizen suffered "minor injuries" in the attack. The top US domestic security official encouraged the public to celebrate the upcoming holiday and "continue to go to public events," but stressed the need to remain vigilant. "Public awareness and public vigilance can and does make a difference in terms of detecting possible terrorist plots, terrorist activity," Johnson told a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. US security has increased since deadly attacks in Brussels in March, with TSA's Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) teams more visible at airports and other transit centers. With the summer season in full swing, Americans are bracing for longer-than-usual security checkpoint lines, a concern that erupted last month when long wait times led to more missed flights and visible public anger over the screening delays. Johnson insisted that with safety paramount, US authorities "will not shortcut aviation security in response to increased travel volume or longer wait times" at US airports. Michelle Obama 'proud' woman may be elected US president US First Lady Michelle Obama said Thursday she was "proud" that a woman might be elected president of the United States this year, during a speech in Madrid to promote education for girls. "I'm proud to say that this year, for the first time in history, we might just elect a president -- a female president of the United States," she said, without naming presumptive Democratic White House nominee Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama's former rival who went on to become his secretary of state. Her comments come as President Obama prepares to campaign with Clinton for the first time next Tuesday in the swing state of North Carolina, one of about a dozen battleground states where November's election is expected to be decided. US First Lady Michelle Obama (L) and then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton look on during the 2012 International Women of Courage Awards ceremony at the State Department in Washington, DC, on March 8, 2012 Jewel Samad (AFP/File) Michelle Obama, accompanied by her daughters Malia and Sasha and her mother Marian Robinson, arrived in the Spanish capital on Wednesday night from Morocco. The US first lady and her daughters struggled to hold down their billowing dresses as they descended from their plane at Madrid's Torrejon air base. Spain was the last stop of a three-leg tour, which also included Liberia to promote her "Let Girls Learn" education initiative, which she launched in March 2015 to help teenage girls across the world access a quality education. During her address to a group of young women and girls in Madrid, Michelle Obama said 62 million girls worldwide "can't develop their full potential because they don't have the chance to attend school." "Now just imagine how that must feel. Imagine if, at the age of 10, or 11 or 12, someone came to you and said, 'Sorry, you're a girl, you're finished with your education. Forget about all your dreams. Instead you'll marry a man twice your age and start having babies'," she added. Palestinian kills US-Israeli girl in West Bank home A Palestinian attacker fatally stabbed a US-Israeli teenager in her home at a Jewish settlement in the West Bank before being shot dead by security guards on Thursday. The Israeli army said the young Palestinian killed the 13-year-old in her bed after breaking into her home in the Kiryat Arba settlement outside the flashpoint city of Hebron. Security personnel rushed to the house and fired on the attacker, who wounded a guard before being shot dead, it said. Israeli Rina Yaffa Ariel, mourns over the body of her daughter Hallel, a 13-year-old girl who was fatally stabbed by a Palestinian attacker in her home, during her funeral in the Kiryat Arba settlement on June 30, 2016 Gil Choen-Magen (AFP) The girl was taken to hospital in Jerusalem in critical condition and died of her wounds. The State Department said later that she also held US citizenship. The attacker was identified by the Palestinian health ministry as Mohammed Nasser Tarayra, 19, from the village of Bani Naim, just outside the city, in the south of the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Hallel Yaffa Ariel's family said she was attacked in her sleep, and the military released a photograph of her blood-spattered bedroom. As mourners visited the family home, the girl's father said she had been sleeping late after a dance performance the night before and that he had been on his way to the house to wake her for work when he heard of the attack. She worked in his winery during the summer vacation which just started, he told AFP. "At the first moment I thought everything was well, but I knew deep in my heart she was not alive," said Amichai Ariel, 59. "I shouted at her." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held talks with Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman after the attack, and the home village of the assailant was sealed off. Israeli work permits for members of Tarayra's extended family were also to be revoked and authorities began procedures aimed at demolishing his home, a measure often taken against attackers. "I expect the Palestinian leadership to clearly and unequivocally condemn this vicious murder and take immediate action to stop the incitement," Netanyahu said. "The entire world needs to condemn this murder just as it condemned the terrorist attacks in Orlando (Florida) and Brussels." The European Union expressed its "deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the victim." "Hallel Yaffa Ariel was brutally murdered in her home in Kiryat Arba," it said. "There can be no justification for such acts of terror." Hours later in the town of Netanya, on the Mediterranean coast north of Tel Aviv, a Palestinian from the northern West Bank stabbed a man and woman, both Israelis, before being shot dead by a passing civilian, police said. - Flashpoint city - Hebron has been a flashpoint in a spate of deadly unrest that has rocked Israel and the Palestinian territories since last October. Hundreds of Jewish settlers live in a tightly guarded enclave in the heart of the city of more than 200,000 Palestinians, a persistent source of tensions. In New York on Thursday, the UN envoy on Middle East peace said that a report by the diplomatic Quartet, expected to be release on Friday, demands Israel take urgent steps to halt the expansion of settlements. Nickolay Mladenov told the Security Council that ongoing Israeli construction in the West Bank was one of three "negative trends" that must be quickly reversed to keep the hope of an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal alive. Palestinian incitement to violence and the Palestinian Authority's lack of control over the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip also "severely undermine hopes for peace", Mladenov said. Violence since October has killed at least 212 Palestinians, 33 Israelis, two Americans, an Eritrean and a Sudanese. Most of the Palestinians were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities. Others were killed in clashes with security forces or by Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip. Analysts say Palestinian frustration with Israeli occupation and settlement-building in the West Bank, the complete lack of progress in peace efforts and their own fractured leadership have fed the unrest. Israel says incitement by Palestinian leaders and media is a leading cause of the violence. On a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories this week, UN chief Ban Ki-moon condemned the recent wave of attacks as "terrorism". But he urged Israel to address the "key underlying causes of violence" including "growing Palestinian anger, the paralysis of the peace process, the nearly a half-century of occupation". Negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians have been at a standstill since a US-led initiative collapsed in April 2014. France is planning to hold an international conference before the end of the year in a bid to restart the peace process. Israel opposes the French initiative, calling instead for bilateral negotiations, while Palestinian leaders have expressed support for it. Israeli soldiers stand guard outside a house in the Jewish West Bank settlement of Kiryat Arba where a 13-year-old Israeli girl was fatally stabbed, on June 30, 2016 Menahem Kahana (AFP) Friends and relatives of Israeli Hallel Yaffa Ariel, a 13-year-old girl who was fatally stabbed by a Palestinian attacker in her home, mourn during her funeral in the Kiryat Arba settlement on June 30, 2016 Gil Choen-Magen (AFP) An Israeli ambulance and soldiers are seen outside the house in the Jewish West Bank settlement of Kiryat Arba where a 13-year-old Israeli girl was fatally stabbed, on June 30, 2016 Menahem Kahana (AFP) US House plans vote on gun control next week The US House of Representatives will vote next week on a measure aimed at blocking terror suspects from purchasing guns, House Speaker Paul Ryan told lawmakers Thursday on a conference call. Ryan said that following the July 4th holiday on Monday, the chamber will take up an anti-terrorism package that will include "a provision to prevent suspected terrorists from buying guns," according to a source who participated in the call. The announcement comes one week after congressional Democrats staged a dramatic, 25-hour sit-in on the House floor to demand action on reducing gun violence in the aftermath of the Orlando massacre, the deadliest mass shooting on record in US history. Protesters hold up signs and flags to show solidarity with House Democrats after they staged a sit in over gun-control laws on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on June 23 Andrew Caballero-Reynolds (AFP/File) Lawmakers in the Republican-led Congress have faced criticism for inaction in the face of US mass shootings. Democrats introduced legislation that would bar anyone on the FBI's no-fly list from purchasing a firearm, and that would expand gun-sale background checks to gun shows and the Internet. Both measures, and two others introduced by Republicans, failed in the Senate last week. But a bipartisan compromise authored by Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine emerged that would prohibit gun sales to people on two terror watch lists including the no-fly list, and would allow US citizens to appeal if their purchase is rejected. Collins said Senate leadership will allow a vote on her measure soon. It was not immediately clear if the legislation Ryan mentioned would be similar to the Collins bill. Restricting terror suspects' access to guns has been a point of convergence for many Republicans and Democrats, with Ryan calling it "common sense." But he has expressed concern that a blanket restriction on people on the watch lists could violate their right to due process, something he reiterated on the call with lawmakers. "He wanted to look at this deliberatively to protect due process and make sure we get this right," the source on the call said. In addition, "he reminded members that the FBI has told people that if we get it wrong, we will undermine terrorism investigations." Guns are responsible for some 90 deaths each day in the United States, but serious legislative efforts to enact gun control are only raised after particularly horrific shootings. Opponents have argued that gun control measures would infringe on the constitutional rights of gun owners. Ryan also said the House will consider legislation that would address gun violence by overhauling the mental health system. After their historic sit-in, several Democrats including Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi held events around the country demanding action to address gun violence. Many have threatened to again seize control of the House floor if there is no vote on gun legislation. Tesla driver killed on 'autopilot' mode, US probe opened Tesla said a driver was killed while using its "autopilot" self-driving mechanism on its Model S electric car, leading to a US federal safety investigation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said that it has opened a "preliminary evaluation" into the performance of Autopilot after the electric car company notified the agency of a fatal crash in Florida in May. In a statement, Tesla said the fatality was "a tragic loss" and was the first such incident with its Autopilot system activated. Just a few days ago, the first fatality in a Tesla Model S using the autopilot function was brought to our attention. Now another severe Tesla crash has occurred while the vehicle was allegedly on autopilot "This is the first known fatality in just over 130 million miles (209 million kilometers) where Autopilot was activated," the company said. "Among all vehicles in the US, there is a fatality every 94 million miles. Worldwide, there is a fatality approximately every 60 million miles," it said. "It is important to emphasize that the NHTSA action is simply a preliminary evaluation to determine whether the system worked according to expectations." NHTSA communications director Bryan Thomas said in a release that the agency deployed a special team to the scene of the crash and opened a "defects investigation" focused on the automated driving system. Preliminary reports indicated that the crash happened when a tractor-trailer made a left turn in front of the Tesla at an intersection, according to Thomas. Tesla said the car was on a divided highway when the tractor-trailer drove across the road to be situated perpendicular to the Tesla. The NHTSA cautioned that it was too early in the investigation to determine whether a defect existed or played a part in the crash. Tesla, known for its high-end electric cars, unveiled the system last year which allows the vehicle to automatically change lanes, manage speed and even hit the brakes. The system is activated and overridden by the driver. - Blinded by light - "Neither Autopilot nor the driver noticed the white side of the tractor-trailer against a brightly lit sky, so the brake was not applied," the statement said. "The high ride height of the trailer combined with its positioning across the road and the extremely rare circumstances of the impact caused the Model S to pass under the trailer, with the bottom of the trailer impacting the windshield of the Model S." Tesla said that if there had been an impact against the front or rear of the trailer, even at high speed, "its advanced crash safety system would likely have prevented serious injury as it has in numerous other similar incidents." Tesla said it followed "our standard practice" by informing federal safety officials. "It is important to note that Tesla disables Autopilot by default and requires explicit acknowledgement that the system is new technology and still in a public beta phase before it can be enabled," Tesla said. When drivers activate the system, they see a warning saying that it is "an assist feature that requires you to keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times," and that "you need to maintain control and responsibility for your vehicle" while using it, according to the company. The news comes amid growing interest in self-driving cars following tests over the past few years by Google and research by several major automakers. Investments are also being made in autonomous trucks and small buses. A major study released earlier this month said the looming arrival of self-driving vehicles is likely to vastly reduce traffic fatalities, but also poses difficult moral dilemmas. The scientists said autonomous driving systems will require programmers to develop algorithms to make critical decisions that are based more on ethics than technology, such as whether to sacrifice a driver or passenger rather than pedestrians. Tesla, known for its high-end electric cars, unveiled the system last year which allows the vehicle to automatically change lanes, manage speed and even hit the brakes Johannes Eisele (AFP/File) US judge grants new trial for 'Serial' murderer A US judge on Thursday ordered a new trial for a man convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend, whose case was turned into a global sensation by a hit podcast. Adnan Syed, 35, the son of Pakistani immigrants, was sentenced to life imprisonment 16 years ago for the murder of Hae Min Lee in suburban Baltimore. The case was largely ignored in the media until it was taken up by weekly podcast "Serial" and turned into a blockbuster when an American journalist revisited the story and cast doubt on Syed's guilt. Adnan Syed, 35, the son of Pakistani immigrants, was sentenced to life imprisonment 16 years ago for the murder of Hae Min Lee in suburban Baltimore Gil Cohen Magen (Pool/AFP/File) Judge Martin Welch in Baltimore granted Syed's request for a new trial in a court document issued Thursday. "We won a new trial for Adnan Syed," tweeted his defense lawyer Justin Brown. Maryland state prosecutors had fought against the move, insisting that Syed was given a fair defense and there was no need to reopen his case. The podcast, a mix of investigative journalism, first-person narrative and dramatic storytelling, focused its first season entirely on Syed's story in a nail-biting 12 episodes. The show cast doubt on whether Syed received proper representation at trial and whether he had in fact murdered Lee. At trial, prosecutors argued that Syed strangled Lee after school in the parking lot of a Best Buy electronics store, jealous that she was seeing another, older man after they broke up. Both were honor students and children from immigrant families -- Syed's from Pakistan and Lee's from South Korea -- who had concealed their relationship from their conservative parents. Protesters rally in Hong Kong on handover anniversary Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Hong Kong Friday to mark the anniversary of the city's handover from Britain to China, with pro-independence groups rallying for the first time amid fears Beijing is tightening its grip. But a second demonstration planned for early evening at China's representative office in the city --- expected to be a flashpoint -- was halted due to a heavy police presence. It comes as a Hong Kong bookseller who was detained and interrogated for months in mainland China, and was due to lead the annual march, also pulled out of protests at the last minute citing a "serious threat" to his security. Protesters take to the streets in Hong Kong on July 1, 2016, on the sidelines of the annual flag raising ceremony to mark the anniversary of Hong Kong's handover from Britain to China Anthony Wallace (AFP) Tensions are high in the southern Chinese city after the explosive revelations by bookseller Lam Wing-kee, whose account of his detention on the mainland after he went missing last year sent shockwaves through a city where residents are worried of eroding freedoms. The 61-year-old was one of five employees of a Hong Kong firm that published salacious titles about leading Chinese politicians and who disappeared only to resurface over the border. His story fanned growing concerns that Beijing is increasing its influence in semi-autonomous Hong Kong, which is ruled under a "one country, two systems" deal enshrined in the July 1997 handover agreement, guaranteeing its freedoms and way of life for 50 years. "Lam Wing Kee is facing a serious threat and is forced to not attend the rally," said protest leader Lau Shan-Ching, who spent 10 years in a Chinese jail as a prisoner of conscience. The march organisers said Lam had pulled out because he had been tailed in recent days. "He had observed that he had been followed by strangers in the last two days. He got greatly annoyed about his personal safety so he decided not to come today," pro-democracy lawmaker Albert Ho told reporters. "Mr Lam has reason to be scared that this may be people from the mainland," Ho added. The march got underway nonetheless at around 3:30 pm (0730 GMT) from the city's Victoria Park, with the front protesters holding a huge banner that read "Stand in Unity. Protect Hong Kong". - Anger, disappointment - "We want to choose our own government," shouted protesters, some of whom carried yellow umbrellas -- a symbol of the pro-democracy movement that brought parts of the city to a standstill for months in 2014. "As a Hongkonger, I feel I need to speak out for the city. To pursue democracy is the issue this generation is most concerned about," rally participant Eva Li, 20, told AFP. Rally organisers said some 110,000 took part in the protest, more than double last year's turnout, while police put the figure at up to 19,300. Scuffles broke out when a small group of protesters who broke away from the main rally to march to Hong Kong leader Leung Chun-ying's residence were stopped by officers. A government spokesman said in a statement: "It (the government) takes note of different views on policies and initiatives... it sincerely hopes that various sectors will, in the interest of Hong Kong, strive to seek common ground." Leaders of several pro-independence groups who had planned a second rally outside China's liaison office in Western District said the demonstration could not go ahead due to a police cordon blocking protesters from entering the area. "It is a violation of people's freedom of expression," Baggio Leung, of Youngspiration, one of the groups that organised the protest, told reporters. The groups are calling for more autonomy for the city, including independence from China, following the failure of the 2014 protests to bring political reforms. Some are now demanding a return to British rule as a stepping stone towards independence, while others say violence may be necessary to bring change. People react as they raise Chinese and Hong Kong flags during the open day of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy Base at Stonecutter Island in Hong Kong on July 1, 2016 Anthony Wallace (AFP) PLA soldiers march during the open day of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy Base at Stonecutter Island in Hong Kong on July 1, 2016, to mark the 19th anniversary of the Hong Kong handover to China Anthony Wallace (AFP) At 150, KKK sees opportunities in US political trends BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) Born in the ashes of the smoldering South after the Civil War, the Ku Klux Klan died and was reborn before losing the fight against civil rights in the 1960s. Membership dwindled, a unified group fractured, and one-time members went to prison for a string of murderous attacks against blacks. Many assumed the group was dead, a white-robed ghost of hate and violence. Yet today, the KKK is still alive and dreams of restoring itself to what it once was: an invisible white supremacist empire spreading its tentacles throughout society. As it marks 150 years of existence, the Klan is trying to reshape itself for a new era Klan members still gather by the dozens under starry Southern skies to set fire to crosses in the dead of night, and KKK leaflets have shown up in suburban neighborhoods from the Deep South to the Northeast in recent months. Perhaps most unwelcome to opponents, some independent Klan organizations say they are merging with larger groups to build strength. In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan participate in cross burnings after a "white pride" rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town, Ga. Born in the ashes of the smoldering South after the Civil War, the KKK died and was reborn before losing the fight against civil rights in the 1960s. Membership dwindled, a unified group fractured, and one-time members went to prison for a string of murderous attacks against blacks. Many assumed the group was dead, a white-robed ghost of hate and violence. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) "We will work on a unified Klan and/or alliance this summer," said Brent Waller, imperial wizard of the United Dixie White Knights in Mississippi. In a series of interviews with The Associated Press, Klan leaders said they feel that U.S. politics are going their way, as a nationalist, us-against-them mentality deepens across the nation. Stopping or limiting immigration a desire of the Klan dating back to the 1920s is more of a cause than ever. And leaders say membership has gone up at the twilight of President Barack Obama's second term in office, though few would provide numbers. Joining the Klan is as easy as filling out an online form provided you're white and Christian. Members can visit an online store to buy one of the Klan's trademark white cotton robes for $145, though many splurge on the $165 satin version. While the Klan has terrorized minorities during much of the last century, its leaders now present a public front that is more virulent than violent. Leaders from several different Klan groups all said they have rules against violence aside from self-defense, and even opponents agree the KKK has toned itself down after a string of members went to prison years after the fact for deadly arson attacks, beatings, bombings and shootings. "While today's Klan has still been involved in atrocities, there is no way it is as violent as the Klan of the '60s," said Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center, an advocacy group that tracks activity by groups it considers extremist. "That does not mean it is some benign group that does not engage in political violence," he added. Historian David Cunningham, author of "Klansville, U.S.A.: The Rise and Fall of the Civil Rights-Era Ku Klux Klan," notes that while the Klan generally doesn't openly advocate violence, "I do think we have the sort of 'other' model of violence, which is creating a culture that supports the commission of violence in the name of these ideas." Klan leaders told the AP that most of today's groups remain small and operate independently, kept apart by disagreements over such issues as whether to associate with neo-Nazis, hold public rallies or wear the KKK's trademark robes in colors other than white. So-called "traditional" Klan groups avoid public displays and practice rituals dating back a century; others post web videos dedicated to preaching against racial diversity and warning of a coming "white genocide." Women are voting members in some groups, but not in others. Some leaders will not speak openly with the media but others do, articulating ambitious plans that include quietly building political strength. Some groups hold annual conventions, just like civic clubs. Members gather in meeting rooms to discuss strategies that include electing Klan members to local political offices and recruiting new blood through the internet. It's impossible to say how many members the Klan counts today since groups don't reveal that information, but leaders claim adherents in the thousands among scores of local groups called Klaverns. Waller said his group is growing, as did Chris Barker, imperial wizard of the Loyal White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan in Eden, North Carolina. "Most Klan groups I talk to could hold a meeting in the bathroom in McDonald's," Barker said. As for his Klavern, he said, "Right now, I'm close to 3,800 members in my group alone." The Anti-Defamation League, the Jewish protection group that monitors Klan activity, describes Barker's Loyal White Knights as the most active Klan group today, but estimates it has no more than 200 members total. The ADL puts total Klan membership nationwide at around 3,000. The Alabama-based SPLC says there's no evidence the Klan is returning to the strength of its heyday. It estimates the Klan has about 190 chapters nationally with no more than 6,000 members total, which would be a mere shadow of its estimated 2 million to 5 million members in the 1920s. "The idea of unifying the Klan like it was in the '20s is a persistent dream of the Klan, but it's not happening," Potok said. Formed just months after the end of the Civil War by six former Confederate officers in Pulaski, Tennessee, the Klan originally seemed more like a college fraternity with ceremonial robes and odd titles for its officers. But soon, freed blacks were being terrorized, and the Klan was blamed. Hundreds of people were assaulted or killed within the span of a few years as whites tried to regain control of the defeated Confederacy. Congress effectively outlawed the Klan in 1871, leading to martial law in some places and thousands of arrests, and the group died. The Klan seemed relegated to history until World War I, when it was resurrected. It grew as waves of immigrants arrived aboard ships from Europe and elsewhere, and grew more as the NAACP challenged Jim Crow laws in the South in the 1920s. Millions joined, including community leaders like bankers and lawyers. That momentum declined, and best estimates place Klan membership at about 40,000 by the mid-'60s, the height of the civil rights movement. Klan members were convicted of using murder as a weapon against equality in states including Mississippi and Alabama, where one Klansman remains imprisoned for planting the bomb that killed four black girls in a Birmingham church in 1963. Cunningham, the historian, said the Klan dwindled to nearly nothing during the 1970s and '80s, when the SPLC sued the Alabama-based United Klans of America over the 1981 murder of Michael Donald, a black man whose beaten, slashed body was hanged from a tree. In an odd twist, Donald's mother wound up with the title to the Klan's headquarters near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, because the group didn't have the money to pay the $7 million judgment awarded in the SPLC suit. KKK leader Brent Waller was raised in Laurel, Mississippi, in the shadow of the civil rights-era Klan. He has boyhood memories of flaming crosses and of Sam Bowers, a Klan boss who served six years in prison for his role directing the murders of three civil rights workers in 1964, and who later was convicted of killing a civil rights leader in 1966. Rather than a white robe, Waller, 47, wears a snow-white suit and orange tie when in public on Klan business and insists on donning sunglasses in photos to protect his identity. Stopping immigration, not blocking minority rights, is the Klan's No. 1 issue today, Waller said. His group operates by the KKK rulebook called the "Kloran," which was first published in 1915. Various versions of the book are now online, and an edition posted by the University of Wisconsin library states in part: "We shall ever be true in the faithful maintenance of White Supremacy and will strenuously oppose any compromise thereof in any and all things." The current hot-button issue for Klan members fighting immigration and closing U.S. borders is one of the most talked-about topics in the presidential election. Klan leaders say Donald Trump's immigration position and his ascendancy in the GOP are signs things are going their way. "You know, we began 40 years ago saying we need to build a wall," Arkansas-based Klan leader Thomas Robb said. Years ago, the group Robb heads near Harrison, Arkansas, changed its name from the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan to the Knights Party USA, mainly to get away from the stigma associated with the Klan name. It now presents itself as more of a political or Christian entity. "There is a lot of baggage with the name," said Rachel Pendergraft, Robb's daughter, who leads the group with him. "You say the name 'KKK' and a lot of people have a narrative in their minds of what it is about, what it does. The name resonates with people, whether it is good or whether it is bad." Despite trying to rebrand itself in many ways, 150 years later, the Klan has not stepped away from burning crosses, though it rarely does so in public. Instead, the "lightings," as members call them, are held on private property away from law enforcement and demonstrators. In April, Klan members and other white supremacists held two rallies on the same warm Saturday in Georgia. As the sun set, about 60 robed Klan members and others holding flaming torches gathered in a huge circle in a field in northwest Georgia to set a cross and Nazi swastika afire. "White power!" they chanted in unison. "Death to the ungodly! Death to our enemies!" ___ Associated Press writer Ryan Phillips in Stone Mountain, Georgia, and AP photographer Mike Stewart in Rome, Georgia, contributed to this report. In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan participate in cross and swastika burnings after a "white pride" rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town, Ga. The Alabama-based Southern Poverty Law Center, an advocacy group that tracks activity by groups it considers extremist, says theres no evidence the Klan is returning to the strength of its heyday. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan participate in a "white pride" rally in Rome, Ga. Klan leaders say they feel that U.S. politics are going their way, as a nationalist, us-against-them mentality deepens across the nation. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, Loyal White Knights Grand Dragon Will Quigg of Anaheim, Calif., center, shouts to protestors during a "White Pride," rally, in Rome, Ga. The name "Ku Klux Klan" evokes horror for many, but what is the organization today? The AP is interviewing imperial wizards and grand dragons, a watchdog group and others to develop a portrait of the KKK as it exists in 2016. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, a member of the Ku Klux Klan uses a mobile device during cross burnings after a "white pride" rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town, Ga. As the KKK marks 150 years of existence, it is trying to reshape itself for a new era. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) This April 28, 2016 photo shows Brent Waller, Mississippi grand dragon and spokesman for the Tennessee-based Ku Klos Knights of the Ku Klux Klan. Waller has since become the imperial wizard of the United Dixie White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan. He has boyhood memories of flaming crosses and of Sam Bowers, a Klan boss who served six years in prison for his role directing the murders of three civil rights workers in 1964, and who later was convicted of killing a civil rights leader in 1966. (AP Photo/Jay Reeves) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan participate in cross burnings after a "white pride" rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town, Ga. In 2016, KKK leaders say they feel that U.S. politics are going their way, as a nationalist, us-against-them mentality deepens across the nation. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan participate in cross and swastika burnings after a "white pride" rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town, Ga. Today, the KKK dreams of restoring itself to what it once was: an invisible empire spreading its tentacles throughout society. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) In this Saturday, April 27, 2016 photo, supporters of the Confederate flag, who were expecting the Ku Klux Klan to show up, participate in a rally at Stone Mountain Park in Stone Mountain, Ga. Klan leaders say they feel that U.S. politics are going their way, as a nationalist, us-against-them mentality deepens across the nation. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) FILE - In this Jan. 30, 1939 file photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan, wearing white hoods and robes, watch a burning cross in Tampa, Fla. In 2016, KKK leaflets have shown up in suburban neighborhoods from the Deep South to the Northeast. (AP Photo/File) FILE - In this Sept. 10, 1947 file photo, Ku Klux Klan member Stetson Kennedy, 30, of Jacksonville, Fla., walks away from the U.S. Capitol building in Washington. Police had escorted him out of the Un-American Activities Committee room. (AP Photo/File) FILE - In this Feb. 3, 1948 file photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan wear white hoods and robes as they march in single file around the town square in Swainsboro, Ga., on their way to the Emanuel County Courthouse where they burned a cross on the lawn. In 2016, the KKK dreams of restoring itself to what it once was: an invisible empire spreading its tentacles throughout society. (AP Photo/File) FILE - In this Feb. 13, 1925 file photo, Ku Klux Klan members hold a ceremonial meeting near Los Angeles. Congress effectively outlawed the Klan in 1871, but it was resurrected in World War I. It grew as waves of immigrants arrived aboard ships from Europe and elsewhere, and grew more as the NAACP challenged Jim Crow laws in the South in the 1920s. (AP Photo/File) FILE - In this May 3, 1939 file photo, a noose dangles from an automobile carrying Ku Klux Klan members, warning blacks to stay away from polling places for a municipal primary election in Miami. In spite of the threats, over 600 black voters cast their ballots. (AP Photo/File) FILE - In this April 20, 1980 file photo, two boys raise their arms as an adult holds a "White power" T-shirt in front of them during a rally near Benson, N.C. Dozens of Nazis, Ku Klux Klansmen and right-wing sympathizers attended the rally. Historian David Cunningham says the KKK dwindled to nearly nothing during the 1970s and 80s. (AP Photo/Bob Jordan, File) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, protesters listen to members of the KKK speak during a "white pride" rally across the street in Rome, Ga. The Klan was formed just months after the end of the Civil War by six former Confederate officers. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, a police officer speaks to a man protesting a "white pride" rally across the street in Rome, Ga. Born in the ashes of the smoldering South after the Civil War, the Ku Klux Klan died and was reborn before losing the fight against civil rights in the 1960s. Membership dwindled, a unified group fractured, and one-time members went to prison for a string of murderous attacks against blacks. Many assumed the group was dead, a white-robed ghost of hate and violence. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, a protester raises his fist as he and others watch a "white pride" rally across the street in Rome, Ga. While todays Klan has still been involved in atrocities, there is no way it is as violent as the Klan of the 60s, says Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center, an advocacy group that tracks activity by groups it considers extremist. "That does not mean it is some benign group that does not engage in political violence," he added. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) In this Saturday, April 23, 2016 photo, members of the Ku Klux Klan participate in a "lighting" after a "white pride" rally in rural Paulding County near Cedar Town, Ga. Participants walked in a clockwise direction chanting "White Power" and other slogans. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart) Police: Man fatally shot by trooper had lighter, not gun FREDERICA, Del. (AP) Authorities say a Maryland man fatally shot by a Delaware State Police trooper was carrying a cigarette lighter that looked like a gun. State police spokesman Sgt. Richard D. Bratz on Wednesday identified the man shot Monday night as 25-year-old Raymond A. Hutson of Greensboro. Hutson was shot after Caroline County, Maryland, sheriff's deputies pursued a stolen pickup truck into Delaware, where troopers joined the chase. Officials initially said that Hutson, who was wanted for burglaries in both states, displayed a gun during the pursuit and ignored commands after stopping his vehicle to drop it. Bratz says in a news release that what police thought was a small-caliber handgun was in fact a gun-shaped cigarette lighter. The incident remains under investigation. LA votes to put $1.2 billion homeless measure on ballot LOS ANGELES (AP) The Los Angeles City Council voted Wednesday to place a $1.2 billion bond measure before voters to raise money to fight homelessness. The council voted 14-0 to put a measure on the November ballot to provide a decade's worth of money for shelters, permanent housing, drug and alcohol treatment and mental health services to the homeless. It also would provide affordable housing to poor people in danger of becoming homeless, ranging from the elderly to battered women and their children. Los Angeles is struggling to deal with a surging homeless population, now estimated at 27,000. FILE - In this Jan. 26, 2016, file photo, tents from a homeless encampment line a street in downtown Los Angeles. The Los Angeles City Council will ask voters to pass a $1.2 billion bond measure to fight homelessness. The council voted Wednesday, June 29, 2016, to place a measure on the November ballot to raise a decade's worth of funding to provide housing and services for the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File) "Every night in Los Angeles, tens of thousands of Angelenos men, women, children, veterans, and seniors sleep on our streets," Mayor Eric Garcetti said in a statement praising the council decision. "This crisis is pervasive, it endangers public health and stifles economic prosperity." "As we continue working on regional solutions with state and county officials, we must seize this moment and we'll need everyone's help," the mayor said. The cost of repaying the bonds would fall on property owners, who on average would pay an extra $40 to $80 a year in taxes, according to city estimates. An alternative funding method would be to create a parcel tax on property improvements that could raise around $90 million a year over 10 years. The City Council postponed, until at least Friday, a decision on whether to put that measure on the November ballot. The council hasn't decided which funding method to pursue and would have until Aug. 12 to pull one or the other off the ballot. Both measures will face opposition from apartment building owners, said Dan Feller, president of the Los Angeles-based Apartment Owners Association of California. "We're taxed to death already," he told City News Service. "The city of Los Angeles already puts a cap on our income with our rent control, harasses us with property inspections, and now they want to put more tax on us." City officials have a 10-year plan to battle homelessness at a cost of nearly $2 billion but haven't nailed down the funding. In May, the City Council approved a budget plan that set aside $138 million to provide services and 600 units of housing. However, part of that money would come from charging new fees to developers that haven't been approved. The council's decision Wednesday came as dozens of media outlets in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle were saturating online, TV and print publications with stories about homelessness. In San Francisco, several city supervisors are trying to place a measure on the November ballot that would create a 1.5 percent payroll tax on technology companies to pay for homeless and housing services. The ordinance reflects a deep divide in a city where thousands of people have marched on city hall to halt evictions and decry spiraling rents they say is due to the growing number of newcomers to San Francisco. Supervisors have until Aug. 2 to get the ordinance through the 11-member board. Alex Tourk, a spokesman with technology advocacy group sf.citi, called the proposal a "disincentive to job growth" and the "antithesis of thoughtful policy development." "Instead of penalizing success," he wrote in an email, "legislators should be engaging many of these revolutionary companies who are changing the future of work as we know it to work with government on solutions to complex problems such as homelessness." ___ Associated Press reporter Janie Har in San Francisco contributed to this report. FILE - In this April 25, 2016, file photo, homeless people, mostly women, spend the night in the courtyard of the Midnight Mission for their safety in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles City Council will ask voters to pass a $1.2 billion bond measure to fight homelessness. The council voted Wednesday, June 29, 2016, to place a measure on the November ballot to raise a decades worth of funding to provide housing and services for the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) FILE - In this Jan. 26, 2016, file photo, tents from a homeless encampment line a street in downtown Los Angeles. The Los Angeles City Council will ask voters to pass a $1.2 billion bond measure to fight homelessness. The council voted Wednesday, June 29, 2016, to place a measure on the November ballot to raise a decade's worth of funding to provide housing and services for the homeless and those in danger of becoming homeless. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel, File) Man sentenced for smuggling military-grade arms to China WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) A Chinese national has been sentenced to 30 months in prison for smuggling military-grade arms from Delaware to China. The U.S. Attorney's Office said in a news release that 26-year-old Kan Chen of Ningbo, China, was sentenced Wednesday in federal court in Wilmington. According to court documents, Chen illegally exported more than 180 export-controlled items, valued at more than $275,000, from the United States to China. Prosecutors say Chen purchased the items, which included night vision and thermal imaging scopes, on the internet. Authorities say Chen had the items mailed to reshipping companies in New Castle, Delaware, which then sent the goods to China. Duterte sworn in as president of Philippines MANILA, Philippines (AP) Rodrigo Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with some hoping his maverick style will energize the country but others fearing he will undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid threats to kill criminals en masse. The 71-year-old former prosecutor and longtime mayor of southern Davao city won a resounding victory in May's elections in his first foray into national politics. Duterte, who begins a six-year term as president, captured attention with promises to cleanse the poor Southeast Asian nation of criminals and government crooks within six months an audacious pledge that was welcomed by many crime-weary Filipinos but alarmed human rights watchdogs and the influential Roman Catholic church. New Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, left, and outgoing President Benigno Aquino III salute during inauguration ceremony Thursday, June 30, 2016 at Malacanang Palace grounds in Manila, Philippines. Duterte becomes the 16th President of the Philippine Republic.(AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) Shortly after Duterte's election win, policemen launched an anti-drug crackdown under his name, leaving dozens of mostly poor drug-dealing suspects dead in gunfights with police or in mysterious circumstances. Days before his swearing in, Duterte was threatening criminals with death if they wouldn't reform. "If you destroy my country, I will kill you," he said in a warning to criminals in a speech during the last flag-raising ceremony he presided as mayor in Davao city this week. Vice President Leni Robredo, a human rights lawyer who comes from a rival political party, was sworn in earlier in a separate ceremony. Vice presidents are separately elected in the Philippines, and in a sign of Duterte's go-it-alone style, he has not met her since the May 9 vote. In a country long ruled by wealthy political clans, Duterte rose from middle-class roots. He built a reputation on the campaign trail with profanity-laced speeches, sex jokes and curses that sideswiped even the widely revered pope and the United Nations. His brash style has been likened to that of presumptive U.S. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, although he detests the comparison and says the American billionaire is a bigot and he's not. Duterte is the first president to come from the country's volatile south, homeland of minority Muslims and scene of a decades-long Muslim separatist insurgency, where he said his central Philippine-based family migrated in search of better opportunities. New Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, second from left, talks with outgoing President Benigno Aquino III during inauguration ceremony Thursday, June 30, 2016 at Malacanang Palace grounds in Manila, Philippines. Duterte becomes the 16th President of the Philippine Republic.(AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) New Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, right, stands on the dais as outgoing President Benigno Aquino III reviews the troops during inauguration ceremony Thursday, June 30, 2016 at Malacanang Palace grounds in Manila, Philippines. Duterte becomes the 16th President of the Philippine Republic.(AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) New York's FDR Library to mark 75th anniversary HYDE PARK, N.Y. (AP) The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in New York is marking its 75th anniversary this week with a series of events. The nation's first presidential library was officially dedicated on June 30, 1941, in Hyde Park, FDR's hometown located 75 miles north of New York City. The library houses millions of pages of historical documents about Roosevelt, the nation's 32nd president and the only one elected to four terms. FILE - This Monday, Nov. 2, 2009, file photo shows the bust of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in front of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, N.Y. The library and museum is marking its 75th anniversary, being celebrated Thursday, June 30, 2016, with a ceremony for library members and invited guests only, followed by the public opening of the library exhibit "Day of Infamy: 24 Hours that Changed History." (AP Photo/Craig Ruttle, File) The 75th anniversary is being celebrated Thursday with a ceremony for library members and invited guests only, followed by the public opening of the library exhibit "Day of Infamy: 24 Hours that Changed History." A panel discussion of the history of the library also will be held. Malaysian opposition politician charged with graft KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) A Malaysian opposition politician, who has strongly criticized financial scandals involving Prime Minister Najib Razak, was charged Thursday with corruption. The prosecution of Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of northern Penang state, has sparked accusations of a witch hunt by the government, which itself faces allegations of massive corruption in a multibillion-dollar scandal involving a state investment fund. His lawyer Gobind Singh Deo said Lim was charged with abusing his power by purchasing a house in Penang at below market value after approving the conversion of a piece of agricultural land for commercial purposes to a company owned by the house seller. FILE - In this June 29, 2016, file photo, Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of northern Penang state, is arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) at his office in Penang island, Malaysia. Lim, a Malaysian opposition politician who has strongly criticized financial scandals involving Prime Minister Najib Razak, has been charged with corruption on Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo/Gary Chuah, File) Lim has led Penang, one of three states run by the opposition, since 2008 and his possible jailing is a blow to an already weakened opposition. Singh said Lim, who pleaded not guilty, faces up to 20 years in jail. He said businesswoman Phang Li Khoon, who sold the house to Lim, was also charged with abetting him. Both are free on bail. Lim has a record of clean government in Penang, introducing open tenders for contracts and publicly declaring his personal assets. He bought the house last year for 2.8 million ringgit ($700,000) and said it was an open transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller. National ruling party lawmakers have said the house is worth at least double that amount, and the anti-graft agency has been probing the sale since early this year. Opposition leaders slammed Lim's arrest as a double standard, noting that no one has been charged over the billions of dollars missing from state investment fund 1MDB. Lawmaker Charles Santiago said the arrest is an "act of intimidation and abuse." Lim's father, Lim Kit Siang, said his son's prosecution came just days after a purge at the anti-corruption agency, with the removal of its top two officials. He said the charges are the latest bid to destroy the opposition. Lim's party is part of a three-member opposition group, which has been weakened by infighting. Najib has faced accusations of corruption and mismanagement over allegations that nearly $700 million was channeled into his personal bank accounts from 1MDB. Najib has denied the money came from the fund. The government cleared him in January, saying the money was a donation from the Saudi royal family and that Najib had returned most of it. The explanation was met with widespread skepticism. Police: Man plotted armed mannequin, bomb attack on officers HARTVILLE, Ohio (AP) A man who allegedly plotted to attack an Ohio police station using armed mannequins and explosives has been arrested. Fifty-one-year-old Timothy Ward was arrested Tuesday at his father's home in Lake Township on weapons and retaliation charges. It wasn't immediately known if he has an attorney. Ward was accused in 2008 of tying his wife to a chair and threatening to kill her while he went off to fight demons. He was found not guilty by reason of insanity and was released from community supervision last year. Police were notified in June by a former girlfriend that Ward was planning to use mannequins to shoot officers and blow up the police station in Marlboro Township, according to court documents. In response, federal and local law enforcement officials searched Ward's and his father's homes June 15. Police Chief Ron Devies said the FBI told him they found bomb-making materials and weapons parts. Authorities also said Ward, using the pseudonym "Joe Smith," posted videos to YouTube that included artwork signed by "Comrade," mannequins dressed in patriotic garb and Bible recitations by candlelight. Hope and fear as combative president takes over Philippines MANILA, Philippines (AP) Rodrigo Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with many hoping his maverick style will energize the country but others fearing he could undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid his threats to kill criminals en masse. The 71-year-old former prosecutor and longtime mayor of southern Davao city won a resounding victory in May's elections in his first foray into national politics. He has described himself as the country's first leftist president and said his foreign policy will not be dependent on the United States, a longtime ally. The frugal noontime ceremony at Malacanan, the Spanish colonial- era presidential palace by Manila's murky Pasig River, was a break from tradition sought by Duterte to press the need for austerity amid the country's grinding poverty. In the past, the oath-taking has mostly been held at a grandstand in a historic park by Manila Bay, followed by a grand reception. In this image made from video provided by Radio Television Malacanang, new Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte takes the oath during the inauguration ceremony in Malacanang Palace, Thursday, June 30, 2016 in Manila, Philippines. Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with many hoping his maverick style will energize the country, but others fearing he could undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid his threats to kill criminals en masse. (Radio Television Malacanang via AP Video) Vice President Leni Robredo, a human rights lawyer who comes from a rival political party, was sworn in earlier in a separate ceremony in her office compound. Vice presidents are separately elected in the Philippines, and in a sign of Duterte's go-it-alone style, he has not met her since the May 9 vote. Duterte, who began a six-year term, captured attention with promises to cleanse his poor Southeast Asian nation of criminals and government crooks within six months an audacious pledge that was welcomed by many crime-weary Filipinos but alarmed human rights watchdogs and the dominant Roman Catholic Church. Duterte's inauguration address, before a crowd of more than 600 relatives, officials and diplomats, was markedly bereft of the profanities, sex jokes and curses that were a trademark of his campaign speeches. There were no menacing death threats against criminals, but he pressed the urgency of battling crime and graft, promised to stay within the bounds of the law and appealed to Congress and the Commission on Human Rights "to mind your work and I will mind mine." "There are those who do not approve of my methods of fighting criminality, the sale and use of illegal drugs and corruption. They say that my methods are unorthodox and verge on the illegal," Duterte said. He added: "The fight will be relentless and it will be sustained." "As a lawyer and a former prosecutor, I know the limits of the power and authority of the president. I know what is legal and what is not. My adherence to the due process and the rule of law is uncompromising," he said to loud applause. Appearing Thursday night at a Manila slum to thank his poor voters, Duterte was soon back to his old form, calling on parents to kill the children of other families if they're drug addicts "so it wouldn't be that painful." He thanked the crowd and gave a livelihood tip in line with his anti-crime campaign. "I'll tell you in the coming days, if you have a funeral parlor, you will earn a lot," he said, sparking laughter. Shortly after Duterte's election victory, police launched an anti-drug crackdown under his name, leaving dozens of mostly poor drug-dealing suspects dead in gunfights or in mysterious circumstances. The killings provided a fearsome backdrop to Duterte's rise. After his resounding victory, he promised to mellow down on the vulgarity and promised Filipinos will witness a "metamorphosis" once he becomes president. Days before his swearing in, however, he was still warning "If you destroy my country, I will kill you," in a speech this week. In a country long ruled by wealthy political clans, Duterte rose from middle-class roots. His brash style has been likened to that of presumptive U.S. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, although he detests the comparison and says the American billionaire is a bigot and he's not. Duterte is also the first president to come from the country's volatile south, scene of a decades-long separatist insurgency by minority Muslims. He has said he would direct security forces to refocus on fighting Muslim and Maoist insurgents a reversal from his predecessor, Benigno Aquino III, who shifted the military to take charge of territorial defense while police handle the insurgencies. Duterte's initial foreign policy pronouncements point to potential problems for Washington at a crucial time for the region. An arbitration tribunal in The Hague is scheduled to rule July 12 on a case in which the Philippine government questioned the validity of China's vast territorial claims in the South China Sea. China has refused to join the arbitration. Duterte has suggested he will keep the U.S. at arm's length and has shown readiness to mend frosty ties with China. Those potential shifts have raised the specter of another difficult phase in more than a century of a love-hate relationship between the Philippines and its former American colonizer. In Washington, State Department spokesman John Kirby said the U.S. looks forward to working closely with the Duterte administration. He said the Philippines is a U.S. ally and partner but has every right to pursue relations with China. "To the degree there's avenues for dialogue and discussion and constructive movement forward in the region, that's healthy and we would want to see that," Kirby told reporters. A senior Philippine diplomat said American and Australian officials are curious how the new president will handle relations with their governments, which have enjoyed strong ties with Aquino, who bolstered security relations as a way to counter China's assertiveness in disputed South China Sea territories. The Chinese ambassador, on the other hand, has worked hard to repair damaged relations with Manila. He told Filipino diplomats Beijing would extend an invitation to the new president to visit China within the next six months, according to the Philippine diplomat who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity for lack of authority to discuss such topic with reporters. "Definitely if the Philippines backs away somewhat from supporting the U.S. in the South China Sea, this would be a problem for the U.S.," said Malcolm Cook, a senior fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. "China likes to present the U.S. as a destabilizing outsider in the South China Sea and in Asia more generally," he said. "The fewer Asian states that publicly counter this Chinese depiction, the more isolated the U.S." ____ Associated Press writer Matthew Pennington in Washington contributed to this report. New Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, right, stands on the dais as outgoing President Benigno Aquino III reviews the troops during inauguration ceremony Thursday, June 30, 2016 at Malacanang Palace grounds in Manila, Philippines. Duterte becomes the 16th President of the Philippine Republic.(AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) CORRECTS DUTERTE'S POSITION TO LEFT - In this photo provided by the News and Information Bureau, Malacanang Palace, new Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, left, takes his oath before Philippine Supreme Court Associate Justice Bienvenido Reyes during inauguration ceremony in Malacanang Palace Thursday, June 30, 2016 in Manila, Philippines. Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with many hoping his maverick style will energize the country but others fearing he could undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid his threats to kill criminals en masse. Holding the bible is President Duterte's daughter Veronica. Others in photo are Duterte's children, from right, Paolo Duterte, Sarah Duterte and Sebastian Duterte. (The News and Information Bureau, Malacanang Palace via AP) Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gestures during a solidarity dinner with the poor at a slum area in Manila, Philippines on Thursday, June 30, 2016. Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with many hoping his maverick style will energize the country but others fearing he could undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid his threats to kill criminals en masse. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, left, distributes food packs to a woman resident during a solidarity dinner with the poor at a slum area in Manila, Philippines on Thursday, June 30, 2016. Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with many hoping his maverick style will energize the country but others fearing he could undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid his threats to kill criminals en masse. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) In this photo provided by the News and Information Bureau, Malacanang Palace, new Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, second from right, takes the oath as his daughter Veronica holds the Bible during the inauguration ceremony in Malacanang Palace Thursday, June 30, 2016 in Manila, Philippines. Duterte was sworn in Thursday as president of the Philippines, with many hoping his maverick style will energize the country but others fearing he could undercut one of Asia's liveliest democracies amid his threats to kill criminals en masse. (The News and Information Bureau, Malacanang Palace via AP) Illinois lawmakers, governor OK stopgap spending deal SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) Illinois lawmakers approved a partial spending plan Thursday that would ensure schools stay open another year and give colleges and human service programs funding for six months, a rare bipartisan accomplishment but one that won't end the yearlong gridlock on a full budget. The Democratic-led House and Senate overwhelmingly passed the plan, and Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner signed it later Thursday, the last day of the fiscal year. Democratic leaders and Rauner crafted the agreement after days of negotiations amid increased public pressure to avoid entering a second fiscal year without spending certainty. About a dozen Illinois newspapers used their front pages Wednesday to publish editorials demanding that the two sides strike a deal and stop the bickering that has led to layoffs at colleges and forced social service providers to close their doors or make cuts. Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, looks on as Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, D-Chicago, speaks to reporters after leaving Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner's office at the Illinois State Capitol Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. Illinois' new fiscal year begins Friday. That's when billions in patchwork spending that lawmakers approved for the current fiscal year, including money for K-12 education, will expire. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Before the 105-4 House vote, Democratic House Leader Barbara Flynn Currie acknowledged the plan doesn't solve the state's fiscal mess. "It is meant to keep the lights on," she said. Illinois is the only state in the country without a full budget for this year. In all, lawmakers are agreeing to spend $25 billion in state and federal funds for the current budget year, and another $50 billion for the upcoming fiscal year. Schools will get just over $11 billion to stay open for a full year. The agreement also provides Chicago some relief on pension payments for teachers, an idea Rauner had resisted until Democratic lawmakers agreed to lower the amount they wanted. But while schools and cash-strapped colleges and social service providers can breathe a sigh of relief, the partial spending plan also means both parties will face high-stakes elections in November to influence budget discussions in January when a new legislative session begins and money starts to run out. Republican House Leader Jim Durkin said it would have been "atrocious" and likely spurred a public revolt if lawmakers finished another fiscal year without a budget. He noted that even with the compromise, the ongoing budget standoff between Rauner and Democrats who control the Legislature will be an election-year issue. "Mark my word that it will be articulated in the fall by various entities," he said. For 18 months, Rauner has demanded business-friendly, union-weakening laws as a condition for agreeing to a spending plan that would include a tax hike. Democrats say the governor's initiatives would hurt middle-class families and have nothing to do with the budget. The partial budget won't solve that ideological divide. While Rauner has not gotten his demands, he's not giving up and said Thursday that November's elections will determine whether his party has a greater voice to help him achieve what he wants. "This election will largely determine that outcome," he said. Under the plan, schools are getting over $500 million more in state aid than they did last year. There will also be a $250 million "equity" grant to help schools with low-income students. Chicago would get $100 million of that. Part of the deal includes passing legislation to allow Chicago to raise $250 million in property taxes to help with teacher pension payments. A companion proposal will have the state cover $215 million in future pension costs beginning in June, like it does for all other Illinois school districts, but only if lawmakers pass legislation to reform the overall pension system next year. Democrats initially wanted $400 million for Chicago Public Schools, including money to help make the city's teacher pension payments. The emerging plan calls for a $673 million increase for human services programs, including $20 million to restore programs that Rauner suggested eliminating. There is also $1 billion for colleges and universities about 85 percent of what they received the last time the state approved higher-education funding. Various state agencies, including the Department of Corrections, are getting $709 million to cover operational expenses. Even before the partial budget agreement, a large chunk of Illinois' spending was on autopilot because of court orders requiring payments to Medicaid and state employees. Those court orders will continue, increasing the state's debt. Rep. Jack Franks, a suburban Chicago Democrat who voted no on Thursday's funding measure, said it delays a long-term solution. "I don't believe there's any profiles in courage today," he said. ___ This story has been updated to correct that Democrats were initially seeking $400 million for Chicago Public Schools, not $700 million in pension help. Illinois Rep. Robert Martwick, D-Chicago, left, and Rep. Christian L. Mitchell, D-Chicago, top right, talk with fellow lawmakers and staff while on the House floor during before session begins at the state Capitol, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Rep. Ron Sandack, R-Downers Grove, speaks to reporters at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, speaks to reporters at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Rep. Ron Sandack, R-Downers Grove, left, and Illinois House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, right, watch the vote tote board while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, speaks to lawmakers while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Rep. David Harris, R-Mount Prospect, speaks to lawmakers while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Rep. Barbara Flynn Currie, D-Chicago, speaks to lawmakers while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Rep. Ron Sandack, R-Downers Grove, speaks to lawmakers while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois lawmakers debate legislation while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) Illinois Rep. Al Riley, D-Hazel Crest, speaks to lawmakers while on the House floor during session at the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) In New Mexico, New Deal legacy gets a second look SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) Amid the misery of the Great Depression, Rupert Lopez gratefully worked for $1 a day for the Civilian Conservation Corps, making adobe-block walls for a new regional National Park Service administration building in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The 100-year anniversary of the National Park Service is igniting new interest in the majestic Spanish-pueblo themed building that Lopez and other "CCC boys" built, along with other remote cabins, furniture and artwork of the 1930s that transformed and popularized national and state parks while putting millions of impoverished Americans back to work. The Old Santa Fe Trail Building, nicknamed after its address alongside the former frontier migration and supply route, was stocked with hand-carved furniture and Native American pottery and paintings commissioned under the Work Projects Administration from local artists. In this Friday, June 24, 2016 photo, former Civilian Conservation Corps laborer Rupert Lopez, 100, right, of Corrales, N.M., speaks with Nina Roosevelt Gibson, a granddaughter of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in Santa Fe, N.M on , in Santa Fe, N.M. The two met at a symposium about the legacy of the New Deal organized by the New Mexico chapter of the National New Deal Preservation Association. (AP Photo/Morgan Lee) It is now celebrated as a graceful landmark that blends with the surrounding high-desert landscape while serving as a testament to President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal public works projects. That legacy is slipping from living memory. Lopez, who turned 100 in January, is the only known surviving member of the work crew that laid the foundation and hoisted hand-carved wooden beams called vigas. In June, preservationists of the New Deal era brought together Lopez with descendants of Franklin D. Roosevelt and several Cabinet secretaries that had helped ramp up government employment and infrastructure projects in the midst of the Great Depression. They met in downtown Santa Fe, blocks from frescos in the New Mexico Museum of Art and canvas federal courthouse murals commissioned by the Public Works of Art Project, another New Deal institution. Nina Roosevelt Gibson, the daughter of the President Roosevelt's youngest son, said she had to take a history course in college to fully appreciate the Depression-era accomplishments of her grandfather, who she knew only briefly as a young girl. Gibson said the New Deal agencies would be difficult or impossible to replicate today but still serve as call to collective action. "The spirit of the New Deal is all over the country, in every national park you go to, there are CCC trails that have been developed, you go into post offices and there are murals and art work ... that were created through funding of various New Deal projects," she said. "And then I see it in the hearts of men and women, their families were able to keep hope during a time when there was a lot of hopelessness." Beyond Santa Fe, an online archive called The Living New Deal is bringing the national scope of Roosevelt-era public works sites into sharper focus. More than 10,000 site locations are tagged to a Google map for browsing. The crowdsourced archive started as a student project and is hosted by the Department of Geography at the University of California, Berkeley. Susan Ives, who works for the project from Mill Valley, California, said amateur contributors have helped identify public works buildings where plaques and labels went missing through neglect and as Roosevelt's progressive political ideals fell out of favor during the Cold War years. "They were taken down when the pendulum swung to the right," she said. When it comes to national parks and monuments, meanwhile, many devotees of New Deal history want that era's artifacts to be given a larger stage of their own, after serving for some 80 years as the backdrop to other wonders of nature and human history. The National Park Service already juggles those competing missions at Bandelier National Monument, 18 miles from Santa Fe, where the main attraction is ancestral Native American cliff dwellings carved into soft rock. The monument also is home to a cluster of 31 support buildings created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s that mimics a small New Mexican village, and is designated as a historic district in its own right. Jerry Rogers of Santa Fe, a retired cultural preservation official at the National Park Service, thinks it is time for a special Park Service unit devoted solely to New Deal preservation. The Old Santa Fe Trail Building could be exhibit No. 1, he said, emphasizing the human drama behind the structure where inside-and-out renovations are planned during 2017. "What was going on in New Mexico at the time, like the whole nation, the bottom has just fallen out the economy," he said. "But New Mexico was already kind of poor when that started. There was genuine hunger, and not just scarcity." In this Tuesday, June 28, 2016 photo, a custodian works at the National Park Service administration building, nicknamed the "Old Santa Fe Trail Building," where photographs on display show members of the Civilian Conservation Corps building the structure in the late 1930s, in Santa Fe, N.M. The 100-year anniversary of the National Park Service is kindling interest in the cabins, murals, furniture and artwork of the New Deal era that transformed and popularized national and state parks while putting impoverished Americans back to work. (AP Photo/Morgan Lee) Official: Airport attackers from Russia, Central Asia ISTANBUL (AP) As the death toll from the Istanbul airport attack rose Thursday to 44, a senior Turkish official said the three suicide bombers who carried it out were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and Turkish police raided Istanbul neighborhoods for suspects linked to the Islamic State group. Turkish authorities say all information suggests the Tuesday night attack on Ataturk Airport, one of the world's busiest, was the work of IS, which boasted this week of having cells in Turkey, among other countries. Police raided 16 locations in three neighborhoods on both the Asian and European sides of the city that sprawls across the Bosporus Strait, rounding up 13 people suspected of having links to IS. Relatives mourn as they gather around the Turkish flag-draped coffin of Habibullah Sefer, one of the victims killed Tuesday at the blasts in Istanbul's Ataturk airport, during the funeral in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Suicide attackers killed dozens and wounded scores of others at the busy airport late Tuesday, the latest in a series of bombings to strike Turkey in recent months. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the militant group, which has used Turkey to establish itself in neighboring Syria and Iraq. IS has repeatedly threatened Turkey in its propaganda, and the NATO member has blamed IS for several major bombings in the past year in both Ankara and Istanbul. Across Istanbul and beyond, funerals were held for the airport victims Thursday, and heartbroken families sobbed as they bid their loved ones farewell, including several local airport workers. Nilsu Ozmeric wept over the coffin of her fiance, Jusuf Haznedaroglu, a 32-year-old airport worker who was fatally wounded while waiting for a bus to go home. "The wedding was next week," sobbed his mother, Cervinye Haznedaroglu, as visitors offered condolences. A video obtained by the Turkish newspaper Haberturk purported to show a police officer asking one of the suicide bombers for identification before he was subsequently shot by the attacker. The video shows the alleged police officer, in short sleeves, approaching a man dressed in black. The man in black then appears to shoot the officer, who falls to the ground. The Associated Press was not able to independently verify the location of the video or the sequence of events. A Turkish senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because government regulations did not authorize him to talk to the media, said the attackers were from Russia and the Central Asian nations of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. A medical team was working around the clock to identify the suicide attackers, the official said, noting their bodies had suffered extensive damage. Kyrgyzstan's Foreign Ministry denied that an attacker came from that country. Asked about the possible involvement of a Russian in the attacks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had no information on that and there was no comment either from Uzbekistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said between 5,000 and 7,000 people from Russia and other nations of the former Soviet Union have joined the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq. People from Chechnya and other provinces in Russia's volatile North Caucasus region have had a visible presence among Islamic State fighters. Turkish state media said the death toll in the attack rose to 44 after a 25-year-old airport worker succumbed to his wounds. Interior Minister Efkan Ala said the dead included 19 foreigners. Officials said 94 of the over 230 people reported wounded in the attack were still hospitalized. Two memorial services for victims were held at the airport, one of them honoring taxi drivers slain in the attack. Five funerals were held elsewhere, including for four members of the Amiri family. Abdulmumin Amiri escaped death because he went to look for a taxi while his relatives watched their luggage. "At that time, the bomb went off," he told The Associated Press. "I was about four or five meters (13 to 16 feet) away." At the funeral for Ferhat Akkaya, who had gone to the airport to see off a friend, his wife and three children sobbed as they clutched his coffin in the northern province of Ordu. His relatives railed against Turkish authorities, blaming them for failing to ensure airport security. "Damn it! The state should hear our voices and take the necessary precautions," said Ferhat Kabakci, the victim's brother-in-law. "Now a widow and three orphans have been left behind. Who will look after them?" In Paris, the Eiffel Tower was illuminated in the red-and-white colors of the Turkish flag to honor the victims in Istanbul. The U.N. Security Council condemned the attack, saying that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable and are "one of the most serious threats to international peace and security." Unconfirmed details about the attack flooded Turkish media. The private Dogan news agency said the Russian attacker had entered the country one month ago and left his passport in a house the men had rented in Istanbul's Fatih neighborhood. The Karar newspaper, quoting police sources, said the attackers were part of a seven-member cell that entered Turkey on May 25. The assailants raised suspicions of airport security on the day of the attack because they wore winter jackets on a summer day, media reported. Police officer Yasin Duma, meanwhile, was praised as a hero. He was wounded in an exchange of gunfire with one of the attackers and reportedly saved many lives by shouting "Bomb!" Turkey's interior minister said the explosives used were a mix of RDX, TNT and PETN that were "manufactured." That combination is military-grade, raising the question of how the attackers obtained the bombs, said Jimmie Oxley, a chemist and explosives expert at the University of Rhode Island. The Dogan news agency broadcast video of the Istanbul police raids showing a special forces team carrying what appeared to be a steel shield to protect themselves as they entered a building. In separate police operations, nine suspects believed to be linked to the IS group were also detained in the coastal city of Izmir. It was not clear if the suspects had any links to the airport attack but the report said they were in contact with IS militants in Syria and were engaged in providing financial resources, recruits and logistical support. On June 25, Turkish security forces killed two suspected IS militants trying to cross the border illegally after they ignored orders to stop, local media reported. One of the militants was wanted on suspicion he was planning a suicide attack in Ankara or the southern city of Adana, Anadolu said. Turkey's leaders tried project an air of normalcy amid the airport investigation and the funerals, appearing Thursday at the opening of a suspension bridge in northwest Turkey. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, speaking at the ceremony, made a vague reference to the "forces" that don't want his country to succeed including the separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, the Syrian Kurdish militia YPG and the Islamic State group. "They have been let loose against us by the forces who hold their leashes," Erdogan said, warning that "the bombs that explode in our country today will tomorrow explode in the hands of those who sent them." ___ Fraser reported from Ankara, Turkey. Zeynep Bilginsoy, Bulut Emiroglu, Cinar Kiper and Bram Janssen in Istanbul, Lori Hinnant in Paris and Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow contributed reporting. A man reacts looking at their photographs as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Photographs of victims displayed among carnations as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Photographs of victims were displayed among carnations as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) An official sits as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony for Tuesdy victims at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Two women embrace as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Photographs of victims were displayed among carnations as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) A woman reacts as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Men react as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Special police members patrol as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Special police members patrol as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Mourners carry the coffin of Muhammed Eymen Demirci, killed Tuesday at the blasts in Istanbul's Ataturk airport, during the funeral in Istanbul's Basaksehir neighbourhood, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Demirci was 25 years old and worked for ground services at the airport. Suicide attackers killed dozens and wounded scores of others at the busy airport late Tuesday, the latest in a series of bombings to strike Turkey in recent months. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) TURKEY OUT Police officers monitor busy traffic at the entrance of the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official said the three suicide bombers who carried out the Tuesday night attack on Ataturk Airport, were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and police raided neighborhoods looking for suspects linked to the Islamic State group. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey. (AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Other Europeans unhappy with EU could seek to follow UK out LISBON, Portugal (AP) Disenchantment with the European Union is not limited to British voters who opted to leave the bloc. Across the continent, anti-EU sentiment is bubbling up, fueled by far-right movements and others unhappy about government spending cuts, the influx of migrants and other policies overseen from the 28-nation bloc's headquarters in Brussels. Some political parties are offering to fight the cause of those disgruntled voters in upcoming national elections while a few far-right groups are demanding a ballot in their own countries on whether to follow the United Kingdom out of the EU door. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, left, leaves an EU summit in Brussels on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. European Union leaders are meeting without Britain for the first time since the British referendum to rethink their bloc and keep it from disintegrating after Britains unprecedented vote to leave. (Geert Vanden Wijngaert) That prospect is sending a shudder through top EU officials because it could propel a process where the bloc breaks up or collapses as fast as an Arctic ice sheet, wrecking Europe's delicate postwar balance. "Will Britain's shock vote to leave the (EU) embolden populists elsewhere in Europe? That has become the key question for Europe," Holger Schmieding, the chief economist at German bank Berenberg, wrote in an analysis. France's far-right National Front lost no time in claiming that the U.K. referendum outcome was an emphatic endorsement for the proposals it has been putting forward for years. The nationalist party's leader, Marine Le Pen, posted a Union Jack photo on her Facebook page when the result came out last week, saying, "The United Kingdom has started a movement that will not stop." She told the European Parliament on Tuesday: "I believe the consequences (of the U.K. vote) can only be positive ... the people can only gain from getting back their independence, a democratic process and control of their destiny." Le Pen predicts that Europe's future shape will now be a central issue in campaigning for the French presidential election in about a year's time. Numerous polls have shown her reaching a runoff against a mainstream candidate. The British decision to leave was also met with joy by Dutch firebrand lawmaker Geert Wilders, whose anti-Islam and euroskeptic Freedom Party is riding high in polls ahead of a general election next year. "We want to be in charge of our own country, our own money, our own borders, and our own immigration policy," Wilders said, pledging to hold a referendum on EU membership if he takes power. "Let the Dutch people decide." Eager to nip such talk in the bud, EU leaders are taking a tough line with the British government refusing to hold any talks on future ties with Britain until London formally notifies Brussels it is leaving. "No notification, no negotiation," EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said Tuesday also sending a signal that leaving the bloc won't be painless. It's not hard to find European politicians disaffected with the EU. They might not want to quit the bloc, but they do want it to do some things differently and now they are finding public support. Earlier this month, an anti-establishment party founded by a comic triumphed in Italian mayoral runoff elections, upending the established order of municipal politics in Rome and Turin. The 5-Star Movement candidates trounced Italian Premier Matteo Renzi's mainstream rivals. "We want a Europe that is more a 'community' and not a union of banks and lobbies," the 5-Star Movement's founder, comic Beppe Grillo, wrote on his blog after the British vote. "The European Union must change, otherwise it dies," he wrote. "There are millions and millions of European citizens ever more critical, who don't recognize themselves in this union, made of banks and economic blackmail." Grillo was apparently referring to the deeply unpopular austerity measures designed to cut government debt in Europe after the continent's financial crisis. Although the immediate threat of a disintegration of the 19-nation eurozone that uses the euro currency has eased, the budget cuts have stayed. So has the resentment of them. Since a general election in Portugal last year, an anti-austerity Socialist government has been kept in power by an unprecedented alliance with the Communist Party and radical Left Bloc. While Portugal has won too many benefits to want to leave the EU, the government's reversal of austerity measures is a clear act of defiance against Brussels. EU nations such as Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic and others have also defied EU officials in Brussels by refusing to accept the principle of sharing the refugee load among all EU members and helping hard-hit Greece and Italy. Even in Germany, a bedrock EU member, there are stirrings of dissent against the bloc. Although Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative bloc is easily the strongest political force, its ratings have sagged over recent months amid the huge surge of migrants to Germany and the fierce debate about how to respond. At the same time, the 3-year-old nationalist Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, has surged in the polls and hopes to enter the national parliament next year. It opposes the EU becoming a "centralist federal state" and demands that the EU go back to being a community of "sovereign, loosely connected individual states." If the EU doesn't scrap its "quasi-socialist experiment of deeper political integration, more European people will win back their sovereignty the British way," AfD leader Frauke Petry said. And even the wealthy countries of Northern Europe have not been immune from the anti-EU malaise, with the U.K. referendum result encouraging euroskeptic parties there as well. The nationalist Sweden Democrats reiterated their calls for a similar anti-EU referendum in Sweden, while the leader of the anti-immigrant Danish People's Party, Kristian Thulesen Dahl, said Denmark should wait to see what kind of exit deal Britain gets and then hold its own referendum. Britain's impending departure from the EU which is apparently is going to be a much longer process than EU officials want has not triggered a groundswell of other countries eager to follow suit. Still, it has given European leaders a lot to think about. "Obsessed with the idea of instant and total integration, we failed to notice that ordinary people, the citizens of Europe, do not share our euro-enthusiasm," EU President Donald Tusk said. ____ Elaine Ganley in Paris, Geir Moulson in Berlin, Frances D'Emilio in Italy, Michael C. Corder in The Hague and Karl Ritter in Stockholm contributed to this report. 5 Palestinians dead in West Bank shootings RAMALLAH, West Bank (AP) Five Palestinians, including two police officers, were killed in two overnight shootings in the West Bank, Palestinian police said Thursday. Police spokesman Loaie Izrekat said that 16 others were injured in the shootings. The incidents underscore the inability of Palestinian police to crack down on widespread illegal gun possession in the West Bank. In one incident, a Palestinian shot at the home of a police officer in the town of Nablus. When police arrived to investigate, they came under fire and two officers were killed, Izrekat said. Three more Palestinians were killed in a shootout between two clans that was sparked by an argument over a wedding hall in the town of Yaabad in the northern West Bank, according to Izrekat. He said the argument escalated into clashes, with rival clans setting houses alight and firing at each other in the street. Palestinian police imposed a curfew on Yaabad to restore order. Gun violence is rampant in the West Bank, Izrekat said. Recently the house of Nablus mayor Ghassan Shakeh came under fire. The late governor of Jenin Qadura Mussa died of a heart attack after assailants fired at his home in 2012. He had attempted to crack down on weapons dealing. The Latest: Video in Turkey shows man being shot at airport ANKARA, Turkey (AP) The Latest on the attack on Istanbul's main international airport (all times local): 9:20 p.m. A video obtained by the Turkish newspaper Haberturk shows a man being shot purportedly during Tuesday's triple suicide bombing at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport that killed 44 people and wounded hundreds. Photographs of victims displayed among carnations as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Turkish media late Thursday are reporting that the man was a plainclothes police officer who asked one of the suicide bombers for identification and was subsequently shot. The video shows the alleged police officer, in short sleeves, approaching a man dressed in black. The man in black then appears to shoot the officer, who falls to the ground. The Associated Press was not able to independently verify the location of the video or the sequence of events. The Turkish government is blaming the airport attack on Islamic State militants, but there has been no claim of responsibility from the group. ___ 9:05 p.m. The United Nations Security Council is strongly condemning the triple suicide attack that killed at least 44 people and wounded hundreds at Turkey's busiest airport. The council says Thursday the perpetrators and organizers of the attack on Istanbul's Ataturk Airport need to be brought to justice and reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable and are "one of the most serious threats to international peace and security." Turkish authorities have blamed the shooting and suicide bombing attacks Tuesday night on the Islamic State group. The 15-member council expressed its sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Turkish government. ___ 8:20 p.m. Turkey's leaders are trying to project an air of normalcy by opening a newly constructed suspension bridge, days after a devastating attack that killed at least 44 people at the country's busiest airport. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Prime Minister Binali Yildirim attended Thursday's inauguration of the bridge in northwest Turkey that will cut by several hours travel between the cities of Istanbul and Izmir. They were joined by the Albanian prime minister. Speaking at the ceremony, Erdogan said forces not wanting Turkey to succeed are behind a spate of terror attacks in the country. Erdogan said: "The separatist organization on one side, the YPG on the other. then the dark organization called Daesh. They have been let loose against us by the forces who hold their leashes." Erdogan was referring to a Kurdish rebel group, a Syrian Kurdish militia and to the Islamic State militants. He said: "The bombs that explode in our country today will tomorrow explode in the hands of those who sent them." ___ 6:30 p.m. The Eiffel Tower is to be illuminated in the colors of the Turkish flag in homage to the victims of the Istanbul Airport attack. The initiative that will see the Paris monument lit up in red and white at 11pm local time had been planned for Wednesday, but was delayed 24 hours. Deputy Paris Mayor Bruno Julliard said that it would be "a reminder of the unbreakable support of the City of Paris" to the Turkish nation and to the victims of Tuesday's gun-and-bomb attacks that killed more than 40 people, including at least 10 foreigners. Wednesday saw the image of the Turkish flag projected onto several world sites including Berlin's Brandenburg Gate and Amsterdam's Royal Palace. ___ 5:35 p.m. Turkey's state-run news agency says a man who was wounded in the triple suicide attack at Istanbul's airport has died of his wounds, raising the death toll to at least 44. Anadolu Agency says 25-year-old Yasin Ocal died in a hospital on Thursday. Ocal, who was married and an employee at Ataturk Airport had sustained serious wounds to the head, the agency said. ___ 3:25 p.m. A Turkish official says the death toll from a triple suicide attack at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport has climbed to 43. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Thursday that Sondos Shraim, a woman in her 20s who was caught up in Tuesday's attack had succumbed to her wounds. Shraim was a native of the West Bank town of Qalqilyeh. She had travelled to Istanbul with her husband and 3-year-old son for Ramadan. Her friend Nisreen Melhim, 28, was also killed, while Melhim's husband and 3-year-old daughter were wounded. Turkish Interior Minister Efkan Ala told parliament 19 foreign nationals were among the victims. The death toll excludes the three suicide bombers. Out of the 238 who were wounded, 94 remain in hospital, the Istanbul Governor's office reported. ___ 1:55 p.m. A senior Turkish official says the three suicide attackers who carried out the deadly attack on Istanbul's main airport were nationals of Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. The official on Thursday could not confirm Turkish media reports that the Russian national was from the restive Dagestan region. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed 42 people and wounded more than 230 others. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with government regulations. ___ 1:45 p.m. The European Union says it still wants Turkey make changes to its anti-terrorism laws that EU officials say are used to muzzle dissent a stance rejected by Turkish officials in the wake of the bloodshed at lstanbul's airport. "New demands directed at Turkey, that would encourage the terrorists," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Thursday. "We can't make any changes in our terrorism laws. Tomorrow maybe, when conditions change." Cavusoglu and other high-ranking officials from Ankara were at EU headquarters to resume negotiations on their country's application to join the European Union. As part of a deal to secure Turkish help in cutting the flow of migrants into Europe, the EU wants Turkey to narrow its legal definition of terrorism and amend other laws to bring them in line with EU standards. Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders, whose country holds the revolving EU presidency, indicated the bloc's position remains unchanged following the attack at Ataturk Airport that killed 42 people on Tuesday. "We cannot have our agenda being decided by terrorists. We have an agreement with Turkey, we're working on the benchmarks, and that will continue," Koenders said. "And I hope we come to an agreement." ___ 12:35 p.m. The German government says Chancellor Angela Merkel has spoken with Turkey's president, assuring him that Germany stands by the country in the fight against terror. Merkel's office says the chancellor condemned Tuesday's attack on the main Istanbul airport and offered her condolences in a Wednesday evening telephone conversation with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. A government statement Thursday said the leaders agreed that "the threat from fanatical terrorism must be faced together." Relations between Germany and Turkey have been strained since the German Parliament voted on June 2 to label the killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks a century ago genocide. That decision infuriated the government in Ankara. ___ 12:10 p.m. Turkey's state-run news agency says police have detained 13 people in connection to the deadly airport attack. Anadolu Agency says the three foreign nationals are among the group of suspects detained in Istanbul on Thursday. Anadolu said police conducted simultaneous raids at 16 locations in the city, Anadolu said. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bomb attack on Ataturk Airport killed 42 people and wounded more than 230 others ___ 11:05 a.m. Turkey's state-run news agency says nine suspects linked to the Islamic State group were detained during a large-scale police operation in the coastal city of Izmir. The Thursday morning raids unfolded simultaneously in the neighborhoods of Konak, Bucak, Karabaglar and Bornova neighborhoods, according to Anadolu Agency. Police say they found three hunting rifles and documents relating to the Islamic State group, the prime suspect for the attack on Istanbul's International Ataturk Airport that killed 42 people. The report says the suspects were in contact with IS militants in Syria and were engaged in "activities that were in line with the organization's aims and interests," including providing financial sources, recruits and logistical support. ___ 10 a.m. Turkey's state-run news agency says police have conducted a series raids in Istanbul neighborhoods, targeting Islamic State suspects following the gunfire and suicide bomb attack at Ataturk Airport which killed 42 people. Anadolu Agency said police searched residences in Istanbul's Pendik, Basaksehir and Sultanbeyli neighborhoods but it was not clear if any arrests were made. Authorities blamed the IS group for three assailants' coordinated attack late Tuesday on one of the world's busiest airports, that also injured more than 230. There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the militant group. ___ 9:30 a.m. A Turkish news report says security forces have killed two suspected Islamic State militants at the border with Syria. Private NTV television said Thursday the two Syrian nationals "were neutralized" after they ignored security forces warnings, but provided no further details. It was not immediately clear if they were trying to cross illegally into Turkey. NTV, without citing any sources, said one of the two militants was wanted by Turkey on suspicion that he would carry out suicide attacks in the capital Ankara or in the southern city of Adana. The reported incident comes days after suspected IS militants attacked Istanbul's busiest airport with gunfire and bombs Tuesday, killing 42 people and wounding more than 230 others. Candles are placed in front the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The Brandenburg Gate was illuminated with Turkey's national flag after suicide attackers killed dozens and wounded more than 140 at Istanbul's busy Ataturk Airport late Tuesday, the latest in a series of bombings to strike Turkey in recent months. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber) The Turkey flag is illuminated onto the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The Brandenburg Gate was illuminated with Turkey's national flag after suicide attackers killed dozens and wounded more than 140 at Istanbul's busy Ataturk Airport late Tuesday, the latest in a series of bombings to strike Turkey in recent months. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber) Police officers monitor busy traffic at the entrance of the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official said the three suicide bombers who carried out the Tuesday night attack on Ataturk Airport, were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and police raided neighborhoods looking for suspects linked to the Islamic State group. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey. (AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Relatives mourn as they gather around the Turkish flag-draped coffin of Habibullah Sefer, one of the victims killed Tuesday at the blasts in Istanbul's Ataturk airport, during the funeral in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Suicide attackers killed dozens and wounded scores of others at the busy airport late Tuesday, the latest in a series of bombings to strike Turkey in recent months. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) A man reacts looking at their photographs as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Photographs of victims were displayed among carnations as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Two women embrace as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) People look at the portraits of victims as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) An official sits as family members, colleagues and friends gather for a memorial ceremony for Tuesdy victims at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) A woman reacts as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Men react as family members, colleagues and friends of the victims of Tuesday blasts gather for a memorial ceremony at the Ataturk Airport in Istanbul, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A senior Turkish official on Thursday identified the Istanbul airport attackers as a Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz national hours after police carried out sweeping raids across the city looking for Islamic State suspects. Tuesday's gunfire and suicide bombing attack at Ataturk Airport killed dozens and injured over 200. Turkish authorities have banned distribution of images relating to the Ataturk airport attack within Turkey.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) Saudis reject rights groups' 'accusations' over Yemen policy GENEVA (AP) The Saudi ambassador to the Human Rights Council said Thursday that his country rejects "accusations" from two top human rights groups, who have called for Saudi Arabia's suspension from the U.N.-backed body over its military campaign in Yemen. Ambassador Faisal Trad said that Saudi Arabia was "keen" to abide by international law, review allegations about its military operations and assist aid workers and advocacy groups in Yemen, where a Saudi-led, U.S.-backed coalition has been fighting Shiite and other rebels since March 2015. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International on Wednesday called for Saudi Arabia's suspension from the Geneva-based body until Saudi forces halt indiscriminate airstrikes in Yemen that have killed over 900 civilians In an email to The Associated Press, Trad countered that the two groups were "rejecting the facts" and "the truth about what is happening in Yemen," pointing to "violations" committed by the rebels. "With regard to Yemen, Saudi Arabia and the coalition (are) keen to abide by international humanitarian law and apply the highest international rules of engagement which corresponds with international regulations," Trad wrote. The rights groups argued that if Saudi Arabia is found guilty of war crimes, the U.S. could be complicit because it provides airstrike targeting information for the Saudi-led coalition. The State Department would not comment Wednesday on allegations of possible U.S. complicity in war crimes or whether Saudi Arabia should be suspended from the council. Under U.N. rules, a two-thirds majority of the General Assembly in New York would be needed to suspend the rights of any Human Rights Council member a virtually impossible outcome in the case of Saudi Arabia, considering its political and economic clout. McConnell's challenge: Save GOP majority in Senate WASHINGTON (AP) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is wrestling with an unenviable, arguably impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval caused by Donald Trump's presidential candidacy. If he fails it won't be for lack of preparation, hard work and cold-blooded political calculation. In many ways Trump's polar opposite, the close-mouthed, deliberate, uncharismatic McConnell maneuvered into his dream job as majority leader just last year, and has been working every angle to ensure he hangs onto it, even if a backlash against Trump provokes a Democratic tidal wave. If they keep the presidency, Democrats need to pick up four Senate seats to take back the majority. FILE -In this Nov. 13, 2014 file photo, Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., right, followed by Senate Minority Whip John Cornyn of Texas, center, and Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., leave after McConnell was chosen to be the new majority leader, on Capitol Hill in Washington. McConnell faces a nearly impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Trumps polar opposite in almost every way, the close-mouthed, uncharismatic 74-year-old finally got his dream job just last year and is trying to keep it, even if a Trump backlash provokes a Democratic tidal wave in November. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) For McConnell, 74, avoiding that outcome means running a Senate schedule designed to assist a handful of vulnerable GOP incumbents in states such as Pennsylvania, New Hampshire and Ohio. He's allowing them to take votes and stack up accomplishments on issues like opioid addiction that they can brag about to voters back home. "It's certainly helped me," said one of these lawmakers, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin. It means having the foresight to push for an independent super PAC run by allies that is focused solely on Senate Republicans, built on a model that helped McConnell himself to a resounding re-election win in Kentucky two years ago. The Senate Leadership Fund, run by his former chief of staff Steven Law, announced this week it was reserving nearly $40 million in air time for the fall in five states. McConnell, in an interview with The Associated Press, said Republicans have "a great shot" at keeping their majority despite Trump. "I think the Senate races are going to be big enough to where they're largely unaffected by the top of the ticket," he said. "I don't think we're going to have a wave election this year in any event." McConnell has engaged in a delicate dance with Trump, whom he was quick to endorse in May, declaring that Trump had "won the old-fashioned way he got more votes than anybody else." The approach was markedly different from that of House Speaker Paul Ryan, whose hesitation before finally backing Trump provoked weeks of headlines on GOP infighting, and private grumbling from some Republicans who thought Ryan should have acted more like McConnell. Since then McConnell has picked his moments on Trump. For two weeks running at his weekly Senate press conferences he refused to engage on questions about "the presidential candidate," as he referred to Trump. This week, nobody asked. But in a series of interviews to promote his new memoir, "The Long Game," McConnell has mostly answered directly and offered frank criticisms, declaring that Trump can't win without improving his measly fundraising numbers, needs to stop criticizing people, start reading off a script, and, in short, behave like a "serious candidate." The two men have spoken privately on a number of occasions, and McConnell himself notes that Trump has started to become more scripted, whether or not that is a result of taking his advice. "I think he's made a lot of progress toward passing what I would consider sort of the credibility threshold," McConnell said. Allies say his handling of Trump is typical of the taciturn McConnell, who is preternaturally disciplined and focused on what he can control, tuning out what he cannot. "I think he's been a model for how you handle the Trump phenomenon in a way that generates the least amount of daily news," said Law, his former chief of staff. In his new book McConnell recounts overcoming childhood polio with his mother's help, being ordered by his father to beat up the neighborhood bully, and locking down endorsements from the popular kids to become president of his high school class. Slightly bug-eyed with multiple chins, McConnell has a demeanor that can at times be so staid as to seem comical. His staff is extremely devoted, generally a marker of a lawmaker's character. McConnell was personally involved in getting former GOP presidential candidate Marco Rubio to agree to run for re-election to his Senate seat in Florida, urging fellow senators to lean on Rubio, who had pledged repeatedly to retire. Rubio changed his mind, a decision Republicans believe will all but ensure they hang onto his Florida seat. McConnell allies also got involved in the May GOP primary in Indiana to ensure a winner, Rep. Todd Young, heavily favored to prevail in the general election. Republicans face a daunting Senate map that has them defending 24 seats, including highly vulnerable incumbents around the country. Democrats do not have any incumbents who are truly vulnerable, although that picture will reverse itself in 2018. It has made McConnell's steady hand all the more crucial and lawmakers said he has taken to citing examples from the past, when the Senate managed to withstand a disastrous presidential election. In 1996, when it became clear that Bill Clinton would win re-election, Republicans began to run ads calling on voters to keep them in control of Congress to provide a check on presidential powers; Democrats lost Senate seats that year even while winning the White House. Republicans hope it won't get that bad for them this year, but even admirers acknowledge that some things are beyond even McConnell's control. "He's got a tough task," said Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona. "A wave will wash us all away." FILE -In this July 23, 2013 file photo, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., stands outside of the Capitol in Washington. McConnell faces a nearly impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Trumps polar opposite in almost every way, the close-mouthed, uncharismatic 74-year-old finally got his dream job just last year and is trying to keep it, even if a Trump backlash provokes a Democratic tidal wave in November. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) FILE - In this March 11, 2014 file photo, Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., leaves the Senate chamber on Capitol Hill in Washington, during a series of votes. McConnell faces a nearly impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Trumps polar opposite in almost every way, the close-mouthed, uncharismatic 74-year-old finally got his dream job just last year and is trying to keep it, even if a Trump backlash provokes a Democratic tidal wave in November. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) FILE -In this Dec. 17, 2014 file photo, Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., talks about his agenda for a GOP-controlled Congress during an interview with The Associated Press on Capitol Hill in Washington. McConnell faces a nearly impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Trumps polar opposite in almost every way, the close-mouthed, uncharismatic 74-year-old finally got his dream job just last year and is trying to keep it, even if a Trump backlash provokes a Democratic tidal wave in November. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) FILE - In this Dec. 17, 2014 file photo, Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., talks about his agenda for a GOP-controlled Congress during an interview with The Associated Press, on Capitol Hill in Washington. McConnell faces a nearly impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Trumps polar opposite in almost every way, the close-mouthed, uncharismatic 74-year-old finally got his dream job just last year and is trying to keep it, even if a Trump backlash provokes a Democratic tidal wave in November. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) FILE -In this Dec. 17, 2014 file photo, Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., talks about his agenda for a GOP-controlled Congress during an interview with The Associated Press on Capitol Hill in Washington. McConnell faces a nearly impossible task this election year: protecting Senate Republicans from the political upheaval of Donald Trumps presidential campaign. Trumps polar opposite in almost every way, the close-mouthed, uncharismatic 74-year-old finally got his dream job just last year and is trying to keep it, even if a Trump backlash provokes a Democratic tidal wave in November. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File) For Clinton, tiny fundraisers equal big campaign money WASHINGTON (AP) A single elevator could have accommodated the donors who recently gathered with Hillary Clinton at the Pritzker family home in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood. Small in number, the group was big in largesse, contributing at least $1 million to help elect her and other Democrats this fall. It would have taken a 37,000-seat stadium of Bernie Sanders fans each chipping in the campaign's self-described average donation of $27 to raise that much money. In her bid for the White House, Clinton is using every fundraising technique at her disposal, including salon-style gatherings with elite donors. Alongside small-donor efforts like email marketing and happy hours for young professionals, these intimate events are helping Clinton collect as much as $1 billion to battle Republican Donald Trump. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton speaks at a Digital Content Creators Town Hall at the Neuehouse Hollywood in Los Angeles, Tuesday, June 28, 2016. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) Clinton's micro-fundraisers have landed big money: At least $19.5 million has flowed from 16 of them over the past two months, according to an Associated Press review. But they also may open her up to criticism. Like her Democratic opponent Sanders, Trump eagerly depicts Clinton as bought and paid for by her wealthy contributors. "The people who rigged the system are supporting Hillary Clinton because they know as long as she is in charge nothing's going to change," Trump told employees of an aluminum scrap metal factory in Monessen, Pennsylvania, earlier this week. And as Clinton works to win over her party's liberals after a divisive primary, the events may undercut her argument that she would be a strong proponent of campaign finance reform. Clinton says Democrats cannot unilaterally disarm in the midst of a tough presidential election, but that if elected she'd work to reduce big money in politics a line President Barack Obama also used. Both Clinton and Trump can solicit checks of $350,000 or more from a single donor thanks in part to a 2014 Supreme Court ruling that lifted an overall per-person cap on political contributions. That's roughly triple what the individual donor limit was in 2012. The resulting money flow could help the presidential candidates build robust on-the-ground voter contact and turnout operations, and pay for costly advertising. That is in addition to money that can be raised by super PACs. Those groups cannot directly coordinate their spending with the candidates and face no contribution limits whatsoever. Clinton has made high-dollar fundraisers a staple of her campaign financing plan, frequently pairing a small pricey event with a larger one that has a lower entry fee. It's similar to what Obama did in 2012, when he held small roundtables with big donors, sometimes just a few blocks from the White House at the Jefferson Hotel. In addition to the 10-person Monday night confab at the home of J.B. and M.K. Pritzker among the heirs to the Hyatt hotel fortune Clinton has held at least nine other events with 15 or fewer donors, according to AP's review. The candidate mingled Wednesday with 15 donors at trendy San Francisco brunch spot Boulettes Larder. During a mid-May spree of intimate donor gatherings in and near New York City, Clinton scooped up at least $4 million. Her schedule included stops at hedge fund manager Orin Kramer's home and financier Steven Rattner's place. Donors at the smallest events typically were asked to give at least $100,000 to the Hillary Victory Fund. Clinton also has entertained 50 or fewer donors at six more events where the minimum contribution generally was $33,400. The campaigns can accept only $2,700 per donor for each election, but a victory fund allows candidates to ask for more and then parcel out the money to the campaign, national political party and dozens of state parties. Both Trump and Clinton have set up these kinds of accounts. "When a candidate takes that much money, they become dependent on those donors and cannot afford to act against their wishes," said Josh Silver, director of Represent.us, a group working to reduce the influence of money in politics through state-level public financing measures. "This is exactly why Democrats and Republicans are falling short on the public interest demands of their constituents, and it has a lot to do with the remarkable popularity of Bernie Sanders." While raking in big cash, the Clinton campaign has emphasized its efforts to appeal to the kinds of small donors that fueled Sanders' candidacy. It also has tried to give some small donors big-donor-level access by holding raffles for private dinners with her. The AP was able to conduct its review of Clinton's fundraisers because her campaign shares background information about its finance events. Trump's campaign does not. Trump associates say he has held several small gatherings with bigger donors, including during a May swing through California. ___ Associated Press writers Lisa Lerer and Ken Thomas contributed to this report. ___ Follow Julie Bykowicz on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/bykowicz ___ The Latest: UK govt puts off London airport runway decision LONDON (AP) The Latest on Britain's vote to leave the European Union (all times local): 7:15 p.m. The British government says a decision on whether to build a third runway on a London-area airport will be delayed until at least October another sign of uncertainty after the U.K.'s vote to leave the European Union. The governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney listens to a question during a press conference, his first since the leave result of the European Union referendum, at the Bank of England in the City of London, Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, Pool) The government had planned to announce this summer whether Heathrow or its rival Gatwick would be expanded, a year after Britain's Airports Commission unanimously recommended the construction of a third runway at Heathrow, Europe's busiest airport. But Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin says Thursday that "given recent events, I cannot now foresee an announcement until at least October." The British Chambers of Commerce said the government was "missing a golden opportunity to stimulate business confidence" in the wake of the EU referendum. Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye said expanding the airport would be "the strongest possible signal that Britain is open for business and confident in its future." ___ 4:30 p.m. The governor of the Bank of England warns that while the central bank is likely to act to help the economy, it will not on its own be able to protect Britain from economic pain. Highlighting the uncertainties caused the vote to leave the European Union, Carney said in a speech Friday that "monetary policy cannot immediately or fully offset the economic implications of a large, negative shock." He said the bank "has identified the clouds on the horizon" and is likely to offer more monetary policy over the summer. But "one uncomfortable truth is that there are limits to what the Bank of England can do." Central bankers have increasingly called on governments to take more action to help their economies to create jobs and improve living standards. The pound fell sharply on news that more monetary stimulus, which tends to weigh on a currency, is likely. It was down $1.3295 from $1.3429 before Carney's comments. ___ 4:15 p.m. The head of the Bank of England says the uncertainty over Britain's exit from the European Union means the central bank will likely have to provide monetary stimulus this summer. In a speech delivered Thursday, Mark Carney said that "the economic outlook has deteriorated and some monetary policy easing will likely be required over the summer." That could mean a cut to the benchmark interest rate, which is now at a record low of 0.5 percent, or the injection of more money into the financial system. Carney said that the Bank of England's policymakers will assess the situation at their meeting July 14. They will prepare new economic forecasts and in August "we will also discuss further the range of instruments at our disposal." ___ 3:50 p.m. Slovakian Finance Minister Peter Kazimir says the European Union needs to find "a new balance" following Britain's decision to leave the bloc. Kazimir, who will chair meetings of EU finance and economy ministers over the next six months, said Thursday it is vital there is "no revenge or hatred, just simple business and common sense." He said the EU split with the U.K., Europe's second biggest economy, is "really sad," adding that "we need the U.K. and the U.K. needs us." Likening it to a marriage breakdown, Kazimir said "you hope for the best, you get counseling, but even though, you end up getting divorced." ___ 2:25 p.m. Poland's President Andrzej Duda said the EU means different things for Britons, members of more than 40 years, and for Poles, who joined in 2004 and have seen the country modernize largely thanks to EU funds. In an interview for the Onet.pl website, Duda said: "We feel the real benefits. o us the union means freedom, becoming richer, receiving funds." He commented as a poll showed 81 percent of Poles want to remain in the EU. ___ 2:05 p.m. Germany's Vice Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel says strong support for European Union membership among voters in Britain's referendum suggests the country could rejoin the bloc at a later date. On a visit to Greece Gabriel said: "There's no doubt that young people proved to be wiser and smarter than the political leadership in Britain ... My hope is that when it's their turn to assume power and responsibility in Britain, there could be a return." The leave campaign won with 52 percent pf the vote. Gabriel insisted that the British vote to leave would not reduce the global importance of the EU, adding: "Europe will not be destroyed because Britain is leaving." "We Europeans have to understand that we need to help each other more," he said. ___ 2:00 p.m. Slovak Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak says the European Union has no plans to open more membership talks with Turkey, after the two began negotiations on finance and budget issues. Lajcak told reporters in Bratislava on Thursday that "there is no prospect for further chapters." All aspiring EU members must complete negotiations with the EU in 35 policy areas, or chapters. Lajcak, whose country takes over the reins of the EU's rotating presidency on July 1, said that at the moment the EU and Turkey "differ over what chapters to open." The EU and Turkey officially opened the budget talks earlier on Thursday. The EU has offered Turkey fast-track membership talks and other incentives to convince Ankara to stop migrants reaching Europe. ___ 1:55 p.m. As the European Union reflects on a future without Britain, Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico says it's time for big member states to stop taking decisions alone. Fico said Thursday "the crucial decisions on the future of Europe cannot be defined by the decisions of one or two member states, or by the founding member states." His remarks were made to reporters as he laid out the aims of Slovakia's six-month presidency of the EU, which starts on July 1. Fico also says that EU nations should be leading decision-making and not the bloc's institutions. He says informal summits of EU leaders like the one being held in Bratislava in mid-September to deal with the fallout of the U.K. exit should be the way to go in the future. ___ 1:35 p.m. As videos, photos and written accounts of intolerant abuse percolate across the internet in the wake of Britain's referendum to leave the European Union, Juan Jasso has become one of the country's best-known victims. The U.S. Army veteran is seen deflecting abuse as a British-sounding youth in a baseball cap, clutching a bottle of beer, screams expletives and demands that the immigrant get off the tram running through the northern city of Manchester. The youth shouts: "Go back to Africa!" "How old are you?" Jasso shouts back at one point. "I've been here longer than you have." The video, carrying nakedly aggressive racial abuse against a veteran, became among the most widely shared accounts of intolerance which have emerged since Thursday's vote. ___ 12:45 p.m. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of lasting fallout from Britain's vote to leave the European Union. Putin previously deflected the allegations that it's in Russia's interests to have Britain, one of its fiercest critics, out of the EU. Addressing Russian diplomats in Moscow on Thursday, Putin said the world will feel the "traumatic effect" from the out vote for a long time. Putin would not say directly whether Russia would want Britain to follow through and leave the EU but added that "we shall see how they actually carry out democratic principles over there." ___ 12:40 p.m. A survey shows that Poland remains enthusiastic for European Union membership with 81 percent of those polled saying the nation should remain in the bloc. The TNS polling center held the telephone survey of 1,000 adults on Monday and Tuesday, a few days after Britons voted to leave the group. Poland's conservative government is stressing the nation wants to remain an EU member. Britain's decision may have direct consequences to the hundreds of thousands of Poles who live and work in Britain, and to their families in Poland. Thirteen percent of respondents in the poll published Thursday said Poland should leave the EU and six percent had no opinion. The margin of error was plus or minus 3.1 percentage points. ___ 9 a.m. France's foreign minister says the EU should not negotiate eventual membership with Scotland while it is a member of the United Kingdom. Ayrault said Thursday on France-2 television that "Europe should in no case contribute to the dismantling of nations." Voters in Scotland strongly backed remaining in the EU in last week's British referendum, but were outvoted by a majority nationwide. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has suggested a new referendum on Scottish independence, met with European Parliament and EU Commission officials in Brussels on Wednesday on the sidelines of an EU summit. Ayrault insisted that "you have to respect the history" of each of the 28 EU member states and let the nations themselves decide on their futures, instead of holding negotiations with one region such as Scotland. ___ 8:55 a.m. British authorities say a London man has been arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred by detectives investigating extreme right-wing, anti-Islam and anti-Semitic postings on social media. Scotland Yard said the 44-year-old was taken into custody Wednesday morning and later bailed. Hate crimes and other intolerant acts have gained increasing prominence following Britain's vote to leave the European Union. The governor of the Bank of England Mark Carney gives a press conference, his first since the leave result of the European Union referendum, at the Bank of England in the City of London, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Carney says the uncertainty over Britain's exit from the European Union means the central bank will likely have to provide monetary stimulus this summer. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, Pool) Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico, left, talks to Ministry of the Interior Robert Kalinak, right, prior a government meeting in Bratislava, Slovakia, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Slovakia will undertake their six-month presidency of the European Union from July 2016. (AP Photo/Bundas Engler) Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during his meeting with Russian Ambassadors in Moscow, Russia, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Putin said that Russia will respond to NATO's military buildup near its borders, but will not be drawn into an arms race. (AP Photo/Ivan Sekretarev, pool) Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico, left, talks to ministry of Interior Robert Kalinak, right, prior a government meeting in Bratislava, Slovakia, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Slovakia will undertake their six-month presidency of the European Union from July 2016. (AP Photo/Bundas Engler) From letf, French President Francois Hollande, Prime Minister Manuel Valls and Foreign Minister Jean Marc Ayrault meet French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, right, at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Saturday, June 25, 2016. France's President Francois Hollande is holding exceptional meetings with the leaders of France's political parties as EU leaders try to keep the union together after Britain's vote to leave the EU. (Christophe Saidi, Pool Photo via AP) Iraq airstrikes kill scores of IS fighters fleeing Fallujah BAGHDAD (AP) Iraq's Defense Ministry has released footage showing airstrikes on dozens of vehicles described as a convoy of Islamic State fighters fleeing the western city of Fallujah following its recapture by the Iraqi military. Scores of militants are thought to have been killed in the airstrikes, which authorities lauded as an operation carried out exclusively by the Iraqi military. "More than 20 helicopters took part in the mission and were able to destroy more than 138 vehicles," Iraqi army commander Lt. Gen. Hamid al-Maliki said. This image released by Iraq's Counterterrorism Service shows militant vehicles after Coalition and Iraqi security forces targeted a convoy of Islamic State fighters fleeing the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Iraq's Defense Ministry has released footage showing airstrikes on dozens of vehicles, which officials said was an IS convoy fleeing the western city of Fallujah following its recapture by the Iraqi military.(Iraq Counterterrorism Service via AP) Al-Maliki, who is speaking in the footage released by the Defense Ministry late Wednesday night, said Iraqi helicopters carried out all of the strikes. "No other force took part in the operation," he said. The U.S.-led coalition said Thursday that they also conducted airstrikes on "two large concentrations of Daesh vehicles and fighters," according to spokesman Col. Christopher Garver. Daesh is an Arabic name for the Islamic State group. The strikes came in waves. Iraqi air force and coalition planes began attacking one convoy late Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning and a second group of IS vehicles on Wednesday. Over the course of the two days, the coalition strikes were estimated to have destroyed 175 suspected IS vehicles, according to a statement from Garver. He said "we know the Iraqi security forces destroyed more" vehicles. Iraqi forces declared the city of Fallujah fully liberated on Sunday, after government troops pushed the remaining IS fighters out of the city's north and west under close cover of U.S.-led coalition airstrikes. Hundreds of IS fighters were suspected to have escaped the city during the month-long operation, according to Iraqi commanders on the ground. IS has suffered a string of military defeats in Iraq over the past year. At the height of the group's power, in 2014, IS controlled nearly a third of Iraq, having blitzed across large swaths of the country's north and west and captured Iraq's second-largest city of Mosul. Now the group is estimated to control 14 percent of Iraqi territory, according to the office of Iraq's prime minister. Following territorial losses, the Islamic State group often turns to increased militant attacks in and around Baghdad. On Thursday, police said separate attacks targeting commercial areas in the Iraqi capital killed at least 12 civilians. The deadliest was in the southwestern neighborhood of Shurta al-Rabia where a suicide bomber blew himself up in an outdoor market, killing seven people and wounding at least 15. In Baghdad's western Ghazaliya neighborhood, an explosion killed three civilians and wounded 11 in a commercial area. In a bombing in a commercial area in southeastern district of Zafaraniya, two civilians were killed and eight were wounded, police added. Medical officials confirmed the casualty figures. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to release information. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but it bore the hallmarks of the IS group. Also Thursday the U.N. children's fund warned that the IS surge in Iraq and the military operation to route the extremist group from captured territory have had a "catastrophic impact," with some 4.7 million Iraqi children in need of humanitarian assistance. UNICEF warned that 3.6 million Iraqi children are at "serious risk" of death, injury, sexual violence, abduction and recruitment into armed groups, and called on warring parties in Iraq to protect their rights. It said that the number of children in Iraq at serious risk of death or wartime exploitation had increased by 1.3 million in the past 18 months. "Children in Iraq are in the firing line and are being repeatedly and relentlessly targeted," said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF's Iraq representative. "We appeal to all parties for restraint and to respect and protect children. We must help give children the support they need to recover from the horrors of war and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Iraq." ___ Associated Press writers Murtada Faraj and Ahmed Sami contributed to this report. This image released by Iraq's Counterterrorism Service shows a destroyed militant vehicle after Coalition and Iraqi security forces targeted Islamic State fighters fleeing the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Iraq's Defense Ministry has released footage showing airstrikes on dozens of vehicles, which officials said was an IS convoy fleeing the western city of Fallujah following its recapture by the Iraqi military.(Iraq Counterterrorism Service via AP) This image released by Iraq's Counterterrorism Service shows militant vehicles after airstrikes on a convoy of Islamic State fighters fleeing the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Iraq's Defense Ministry has released footage showing airstrikes on dozens of vehicles, which officials said was an IS convoy fleeing the western city of Fallujah following its recapture by the Iraqi military. (Iraq Counterterrorism Service via AP) This image released by Iraq's Counterterrorism Service shows a destroyed militant vehicle after airstrikes on Islamic State fighters fleeing the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Iraq's Defense Ministry has released footage showing airstrikes on dozens of vehicles, which officials said was an IS convoy fleeing the western city of Fallujah following its recapture by the Iraqi military. (Iraq Counterterrorism Service via AP) This image released by Iraq's Counterterrorism Service shows destroyed militant vehicles after airstrikes on Islamic State fighters fleeing the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Iraq's Defense Ministry has released footage showing airstrikes on dozens of vehicles, which officials said was an IS convoy fleeing the western city of Fallujah following its recapture by the Iraqi military. (Iraq Counterterrorism Service via AP) MSF: Syrians trapped without aid near Jordan face starvation AMMAN, Jordan (AP) Tens of thousands of Syrians stranded on the Jordanian border face starvation and dehydration, the aid group Doctors Without Borders said Thursday, calling for an immediate resumption of aid deliveries that were halted after Jordan sealed the border following a suicide attack. The international community must eventually relocate the more than 60,000 Syrians trapped in the remote desert near the border to safe countries, said the group, adding that Jordan cannot be expected to shoulder the responsibility alone. Abandoning displaced Syrians in the border area or sending them back to war-ravaged Syria are unacceptable options, the group said. "We see this as a collective responsibility and as a consequence we also see this as a collective failure of the international community to do its duty," said Benoit De Gryse, operations manager at the group, also known as Medecins Sans Frontieres, or MSF. In this Tuesday, June 28, 2016 photo, Syrian refugees gather for water at Ruqban border camp in northeast Jordan. Syrian refugees and international aid officials say little water and no food has reached 64,000 Syrian refugees stranded in the desert since Jordan sealed its border in response to a suicide attack on June 21, 2016. (AP Photo) Jordan sealed the border area, known as the berm because of an earthen mound marking the frontier, after a June 21 suicide attack. The car bomb, claimed by the extremist group Islamic State, killed seven Jordanian troops and wounded 13. Jordan signaled it would not lift the closure. "The security of our country and Jordanians is the government's top priority," said government spokesman Mohammed Momani. "Therefore, the border remains a close military area." He said the refugees at the berm are an international problem, but that Jordan is willing to help. De Gryse said the situation at the berm is very critical and "getting worse day by day," with people currently receiving only an average of about 1.5 liters of water per person per day far below the required amount. About half of those stranded in the desert are children, he said. "The people live in an environment where the temperature currently rises to 40 degrees (104 Fahrenheit)," he said. "There are sand storms, there is no vegetation to provide shelter. The tents are often makeshift or extremely flimsy, offering no protection from the sun and the wind." "If this continues like it is now, we will soon see starvation, dehydration and we will be confronted with preventable deaths at the berm," he added. Close to 5 million Syrians have fled their homeland since 2011, including more than 650,000 who settled in Jordan. Since early 2016, populations in two tent encampments on the Jordanian border have grown fourfold. The bottle neck is a result of more Syrians fleeing and stringent Jordanian security checks, amid fears that IS extremists posing as refugees will try to seek entry to Jordan. In recent months, aid groups have started distributing food, water and bread from the Jordanian side. From mid-May until the border closure, MSF operated clinics from the backs of trucks and said it was able to treat about 3,200 patients. This included delivering a baby in a truck and referring several critical patients to hospitals in Jordan. About one-fourth of the children treated by MSF suffered from watery diarrhea and 200 were malnourished, the aid group said. Brexit shakes hopes of Balkan EU bidders BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) When Britain voted to leave the European Union, pro-Russians in Serbia were quick to proclaim the bloc's death: they lit candles and laid flowers in front of the EU headquarters in Belgrade and declared the country's efforts to join the 28-nation club null and void. Although the mock death certificate published by a Kremlin-backed group may be a bit premature, Serbia and other Balkan nations that suffered through wars and violent breakups of their states in the 1990s will certainly now face more hurdles and delays to their membership bids as the EU itself is falling apart. It was the promise of Eastern expansion, championed by Britain, that helped halt the brutal 1990s wars among former Yugoslav republics. With the EU membership prospect now diminishing and the EU facing internal strife, the volatile Balkan region bordering the EU could now fall prey to power players such as Russia. A seamstress sews an EU flag in a workshop in Belgrade, Serbia, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania, all at different stages in joining the EU, have declared that the British exit in a referendum last week will not diminish their membership efforts. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania, all at different stages in joining the EU, have declared that the British exit in a referendum last week will not diminish their membership efforts. But their leaders have acknowledged that the weakened EU may not be as appealing as it used to be. "This is the biggest political earthquake since the fall of the Berlin wall," Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic said. "There is no doubt that this will leave significant consequences not only in short but in long terms. What will the EU enlargement policy be I cannot tell you at this moment." On Thursday, the EU further delayed formally opening accession talks with Serbia a move described by Serbia's Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic as "shameful, incomprehensible and humiliating." Dacic who has close ties with Moscow said in a strongly-worded statement that the EU decision amounted to "open political pressure" and called for urgent government consultations on future foreign policy strategy. Serbia, strategically important for Russia as it remains its only real ally in the region, has faced relentless propaganda and political pressure from the Kremlin to ditch its pro-Western alliances. Russian officials have demanded that referendums be held in Serbia on its EU and possibly NATO bids, counting on strong historic ties between the two Slavic nations. "The Brexit is not good news for the countries in the region, especially Serbia which has the closest ties to Russia," said Jelica Minic from the European movement for Serbia, adding that the latest polls show that Serbs are largely Euro-sceptics and increasingly turning toward Russia. "Serbia is dangerously sliding toward Russia," she said. Moscow has also been very active in Bosnia, working through the Bosnian Serb mini-state there whose officials have been blocking the country's Muslims and Croats from their efforts to join the EU and NATO. For years membership in the EU was seen by many in Bosnia as a goal that would bring some stability in people's lives, but the rupture in the EU brings back bad memories of the Yugoslav tragedy. "This is not going to end well. I see nothing good in the future," said Sarajevan Zuhra Coric, referring to the British exit. Bosnian political analyst Ivana Maric believes what is happening now in the EU could have a positive effect as Britain has never been completely integrated and the Union may come out of this more "connected." "What happened to the pound will discourage other forces in Europe who considered similar referendums," she said, referring to the drop of the British currency on the exchange markets immediately after the referendum. "However, the enlargement process may be delayed." Macedonia has been an EU candidate member since 2005, but its bid has been blocked by Greece over the name dispute. Macedonian president Gjorge Ivanov expressed "great concern" with Brexit and said he fears that the EU may now split up with more of its member states leaving. "We, who are older generation, experienced the tragedy of the former Yugoslavia, where there was also a system of collective decision-making. Where is that state now? We are worried by the possibility that the European Union may follow the same road," Ivanov said. In the Serbian capital, the pro-Russians were gloating. They stuck a death notice to the entrance of the EU office, with a note: "We are informing the citizens of Serbia that after a long and serious illness, the European Union died at the age of 59." ___ Associated Press writers Aida Cerkez and Konstantin Testorides contributed. A seamstress irons an EU flag in a workshop in Belgrade, Serbia, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania, all at different stages in joining the EU, have declared that the British exit in a referendum last week will not diminish their membership efforts. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) Seamstresses sews EU flags in a workshop in Belgrade, Serbia, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Serbia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania, all at different stages in joining the EU, have declared that the British exit in a referendum last week will not diminish their membership efforts. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) Theater shows R-rated comedy trailer with "Finding Dory" CONCORD, Calif. (AP) The owner of a California movie theater is apologizing after a trailer for an R-rated upcoming Seth Rogen comedy was shown ahead of a screening of Disney's "Finding Dory." The East Bay Times reports (http://bit.ly/2930i2e) moviegoers eager to see the PG-rated "Dory" at a Brenden theater in the Bay Area city of Concord were surprised earlier this month with a preview of Rogen's "Sausage Party," animated film with dark themes about what happens to food after it's taken home from the supermarket. Brenden vice president Walter Eichinger tells the newspaper it was a one-time mishap due to the theater "moving screens around in effort to accommodate several large last-minute groups wanting to see 'Dory.'" He says the wrong movie was started by mistake and insists it won't happen again. OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Two fireworks shows and a free concert highlight Fourth of July weekend activities in Jackson County. Saturday night, Ocean Springs LIVE will present its second free concert, this one featuring Jimmy Hall & Muscle Shoals Revisited at 6:30 p.m. in Rosetti Park at 709 Church Street in downtown Ocean Springs. Opening acts will begin performing at 5 p.m. The concert is free to attend and patrons are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets to the park. Refreshments will be sold on site. Also on Saturday is the 36th annual Wesson Memorial Run at the Ocean Springs YMCA on Government Street. Day-of registration begins at 7 a.m., with the race set to start at 8 a.m. Registration is $20. There is also a 1/4 mile kids run/walk which begins at 8:30 a.m. Cost to register is $10. Sunday night, July 3, the City of Ocean Springs will present its annual July 4 fireworks show on Front Beach Drive. View the show from the beach or Fort Maurepas Park. The fireworks are set to begin at 9 p.m. The county's largest fireworks show is set for 9 p.m. Monday night at Beach Park in Pascagoula. Radio station 93.7 FM will provide accompanying patriotic music for the show. Residents are reminded personal fireworks are not allowed in public areas. Elsewhere along the Mississippi coast: PICTURED: Kiev's outdoor gym flourishes 50 years on KIEV, Ukraine (AP) Every day in summertime, hundreds of people flock to an outdoor gym on an island in the Dnieper river in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev. This unique gym dates back to the late 1960s when a subway line was built to link Kiev's historic right bank and the left bank, which became home to sprawling Soviet-era housing developments. One station, Hydropark, was built on the island, giving residents easy access to the park, and they immediately adopted it for jogging and picnics. Yuri Kuk, the 70-year old bespectacled co-founder of the gym, said it all began with a simple horizontal bar to do chin-ups. Kuk, a mathematician who worked in a cybernetics research center, says it was easy to obtain materials and factory hands willing to shape the equipment in the 1970s, when Soviet heavy industry was still flourishing. In this photo taken Saturday, June 25, 2016 a man trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) "There was a lot of scrap metal around, just lying about," he said. "We wanted people to have an active leisure time, not just play cards on the beach." Nearly 50 years on, the gym boasts about 200 hand-made machines, from leg and arm trainers to more sophisticated contraptions. The Hydropark gym is free of charge, but after Ukrainian authorities hiked electricity prices Kuk began to collect donations to keep the lights on at the gym when it's dark. The gym is open all year round in the city where it's not unusual for temperatures to drop to minus 15 Celsius (5 Fahrenheit). A few dozen of die-hard gym fans visit and work out in wintertime when the island is covered in snow and the river freezes over. Lush Kiev summertime is the best, Kuk says. "It's nice that the Dnieper is nearby: you can take a dip after the workout," he said. "It's stuffy inside gyms in summertime. Here there is fresh air all year around." In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a man trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Tuesday, June 28, 2016, Yuri Kuk speaks to the Associated Press in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Kuk, a 70-year old bespectacled co-founder of the gym, a mathematician who worked in a cybernetics research centre, says it was easy to obtain materials and factory hands were willing to wield simple trainers in the 1970s when the Soviet heavy industry was still flourishing. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a man works out in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a young woman trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Saturday, June 25, 2016 a man trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. TEvery day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a man works out in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a man trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Saturday, June 25, 2016 a gym goer trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a man trains in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) In this photo taken Thursday, June 23, 2016, a cat rests in a shade while people training in the outdoor gym on an island on the Dnieper River in Kiev, Ukraine. Every day hundreds of people flock to Kiev's legendary gym on the Dnieper island which dates back to the 1960s. (AP Photo/Sergei Chuzavkov) Italy lowers toll from 2015 migrant wreck after ship raised ROME (AP) Italian authorities on Thursday significantly lowered the estimated number of migrants who died in a 2015 shipwreck that spurred Europe to beef up Mediterranean rescue efforts, suggesting the final death toll could be around 500 rather than 800. Survivors of the April 18, 2015, wreck had told investigators that the fishing boat was carrying from 700 to 800 people, most of them trapped in the hull. Only 28 survived. But after the ship was raised from the seafloor this week and authorities got a look at its dimensions, they lowered the estimated number of passengers and dead. Divers recovered 169 bodies from the seabed and discovered another 10-11 once the resurfacing operation got under way. Navy Rear Adm. Pietro Covino said there were likely "no fewer than 300" bodies left in the hull. Combined with the 180 bodies already found, the final toll could be around 500. Covino stressed that forensic investigators hadn't had a chance yet to enter the hull to count the bodies or start the identifying process, something that is planned for the next several days. As that work begins, rescues continue: The coast guard said Thursday it had rescued 223 people in two operations and found the bodies of 10 women in a partially submerged dinghy off Libya's coast. The presumed deaths of so many migrants in a single 2015 shipwreck sparked renewed outrage and soul-searching in European capitals, which agreed to send in EU naval reinforcements to cast a wider safety net to try to rescue the waves of migrants leaving Libya on smugglers' boats. Most of the boats that sink are never recovered, and the dead are never retrieved or identified. But Italy pledged to recover the wreck and spent 9.5 million euros to raise it to the surface in hopes of identifying the dead and creating a data bank of information for families to contribute identifying information. The operation involved a complicated pulley system fixed to a support frame that attached to the shipwreck some 370 meters (1,214 feet) down. Strong currents and poor weather complicated the efforts, with the final resurfacing operation alone taking 20 hours, officials said. Discrepancies over death tolls are not unusual: Humanitarian organizations and investigating authorities typically rely on survivors' accounts to piece together how many people may have been killed during a capsizing, relying on overlapping accounts to try to establish a level of veracity. But given the trauma of the survivors, the lack of ship manifests and overall chaos of the smuggling operations, the estimates often vary. Even when there are reliable estimates, they in no way paint the full picture of migrant deaths since there are some ships that sink without a trace. The U.N. refugee agency estimates that from April 19, 2015, to today, some 4,937 people have perished making the sea crossing to Europe. ___ The Latest: Evans, Torres pay visit to swim trials The Latest on the Olympics ahead of the Rio Games (all times local to Rio): ___ 12:30 a.m. Michael Phelps spits water after swimming in the men's 200-meter individual medley preliminaries at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Janet Evans and Dara Torres are visiting the U.S. Olympic swimming trials with their young daughters in tow. Evans and daughter Sydney Wilson were part of the medal ceremony for the men's 200-meter breaststroke on Thursday night. Torres and her 10-year-old daughter Tessa caught the action a night earlier when Michael Phelps joined Torres as a five-time Olympian. The young girls are both swimmers; Sydney in Orange County, California, and Tessa in the Boston area. Torres says she only lets her daughter swim a couple of times a week and encourages her to participate in other sports such as gymnastics. ___ 10:35 p.m. Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte have set up their only showdown of the U.S. Olympic swimming trials. The longtime rivals cruised through the semifinals of the 200-meter individual medley Thursday night, each winning their heats in dominating fashion. Lochte was the top qualifier at 1 minute, 56.71 seconds, while Phelps took the second spot in 1:57.61. That means they'll be right beside each other for Friday night's final, just as they've been so many times during their dazzling careers. Phelps has already qualified for the Olympics in the 200 butterfly, giving him a chance to add to his record haul of 18 golds and 22 medals overall. Lochte, an 11-time medalist, has yet to claim an individual event while battling a groin injury. Still in a lot of pain, he has adjusted his breaststroke just a bit and seems much more comfortable than he did in previous events. ___ 10:10 p.m. Nathan Adrian will get a chance to defend his Olympic title in the 100-meter freestyle. The 27-year-old Adrian used a powerful finishing kick to post a winning time of 47.72 seconds at the U.S. swimming trials Thursday night. That's not far off the time of 47.52 that gave him the gold medal in London four years ago. Caeleb Dressel will also swim the 100 free at Rio, taking second place behind Adrian in 48.23. Thirty-five-year-old Anthony Ervin, the oldest swimmer at the trials, got off to a blistering start but couldn't hold on. He touched fourth in 48.54, also finishing behind Ryan Held (48.26). But Ervin assured himself of a third trip to the Olympics, locking up a spot on the 4x100 free relay team along with the rest of the top four. The next two Jimmy Feigen (48.57) and Blake Pieroni (48.78) are also likely to be part of the team as possible relay swimmers. ___ 10:05 p.m. After initially being disqualified during the preliminaries, Cammile Adams is heading to the Olympics for the second time. The 24-year-old Texas native won the 200-meter butterfly at the U.S. swimming trials Thursday night, touching in 2 minutes, 6.80 seconds. Hali Flickinger took the second spot on the Olympic team in 2:07.50. Adams was disqualified for an illegal turn after posting the fastest time in the preliminaries. That decision was quickly overturned after officials looked at a replay provided by the underwater camera. Adams will now head to the Olympics as a medal favorite, having captured a silver at last year's world championships. She was fifth in the same event at the London Games four years ago. ___ 10 p.m. QUALIFICATION ALERT: Nathan Adrian has qualified for the Rio Olympics in the 100-meter freestyle. ___ 9:50 p.m. QUALIFICATION ALERT: Cammile Adams has qualified for the Rio Olympics in the 200-meter butterfly. ___ 9:35 p.m. Missy Franklin has missed out on another event that was part of her Olympic program four years ago. Franklin was only the 11th-fastest qualifier in the semifinals of the 100-meter freestyle at the U.S. swimming trials Thursday night, missing a spot in Friday's final. Abbey Weitzeil was the top qualifier at 53.57 seconds, and Katie Ledecky also advanced as the seventh seed at 54.04. The top eight will swim in the final. Also advancing were Simone Manuel (53.64), Amanda Weir (53.72), Dana Vollmer (53.74), Lia Neal (53.87), Kelsi Worrell (54.00) and Allison Schmitt (54.07). Franklin could only produce a time of 54.24, while Natalie Coughlin's Olympic hopes likely ended altogether. The 12-time Olympic medalist struggled to a 14th-place showing in 54.87. In 2012, Franklin finished fifth at the Olympics in the 100 free, one of seven events on her grueling program. So far, she's qualified in only one individual event, the 200 freestyle. ___ 9:15 p.m. Josh Prenot has knocked off Kevin Cordes in the 200-meter breaststroke at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, sending another rookie to the Rio Games. Cordes won the 100 breast to earn a trip to the Olympics, and he was heavily favored going into the longer event. Cordes took it out fast, putting him more than a second under the world-record pace at the final turn. But the 22-year-old Prenot was much stronger on the closing lap, bouncing up and down furiously in the water to surge past Cordes. The Californian touched in 2 minute, 7.17 seconds the fastest time of the year and just off the world mark of 2:07.01 set by Japan's Ahkiro Yamaguchi in 2012. Cordes barely held on for second, giving him a second individual event at the Olympics. He touched in 2:08.00 just 14-hundredths of a second ahead of Will Licon. Prenot's victory means up to 21 first-time Olympic swimmers will be on the U.S. team in Rio. ___ 9:05 p.m. QUALIFICATION ALERT: Josh Prenot has qualified for the Rio Olympics in the 200-meter breaststroke. ___ 8:10 p.m. Sprinter Carmelita Jeter will miss the Olympic Trials after re-aggravating an injury to her left quadriceps. Jeter, who won silver in the 100 and bronze in the 200 at the 2012 London Olympics, made the announcement Thursday on Instagram. The 36-year-old addressed her fans and said it's been a rough two years that's included two torn quadriceps along with surgery. She also told them not to forget she's still "the fastest woman alive." ___ 6:05 p.m. The U.S. Olympic roster stands at 299, with more than 200 more athletes still to be named. Alan Ashley, chief of sport performance for the U.S. Olympic Committee, says that as of Thursday afternoon, one short of 300 Americans had punched their tickets to Rio de Janeiro. He expects a team of 552 when all the qualifying is complete by mid-July. Swimming trials are in full swing in Omaha, Nebraska, this week, while the track and field trials ramp up Friday in Eugene, Oregon. Ashley wouldn't venture any guesses on how many medals those 550-plus athletes will bring home from Brazil. At the last Summer Games, Americans led the way with 103. ___ 4:15 p.m. Maria Michta-Coffey and Miranda Melville have earned spots on the Olympic team in the 20-kilometer race walk at U.S. Olympic trials. They finished 1-2 in the race, held in Salem, Oregon, and were the only two who have met the Olympic qualifying standard. John Nunn won the men's race, but doesn't have the standard. Nunn had previously qualified for the 50-kilometer race. Rio will mark his third Olympics ____ 3:55 p.m. Happy birthday, Michael Phelps. Phelps marked his 31st birthday at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials Thursday by posting the second-fastest time in morning preliminaries of the 200-meter individual medley. The most decorated athlete in Olympic history says he definitely feels older. He says his muscles "aren't the same" and he's in a lot of pain after winning the 200 butterfly the previous night. Asked how he plans to celebrate his birthday, Phelps replied, "I'm not." ____ 3:40 p.m. Nick Symmonds, the 800-meter runner who also serves as a major voice for athlete's rights in track, will not compete at Olympic Trials because of a left ankle injury. He posted the announcement on Instagram, saying he has a torn ligament and a stress fracture. The 32-year-old runner said he is not retiring, but his 2016 season is over. Symmonds boycotted the world championships last year to protest what he called unfair restrictions on what apparel athletes were allowed to wear. He will still be at the stadium this week in Eugene, Oregon, promoting his Run Gum company and his cause. He's hoping thousands of fans and dozens of athletes will wear black tape on their skin as a sign of protest over restrictions placed on which sponsor logos athletes are allowed to display during major events. ____ 2:40 p.m. Ryan Lochte qualified fastest for the 200-meter individual medley semifinals at the U.S. Olympic trials, with Michael Phelps in second. Lochte was timed in 1 minute, 58.05 seconds in the preliminary heats. He emerged from the pool limping as a result of the groin injury that has compromised his swimming since the trials began last Sunday. Phelps finished second in 1:58.95, advancing to the evening semifinals on his 31st birthday. Four years ago in London, Phelps won gold and Lochte took silver. Lochte won the 200 IM at last year's world championships in Russia, where Phelps couldn't compete while serving a suspension from USA Swimming after his second drunken driving arrest. Phelps' 7-week-old son, Boomer, was on the lap of his mother Nicole Johnson during the race with Phelps' mother Debbie sitting next to them. Also making the semifinals was Austin Surhoff, the son of former major league baseball player B.J. Surhoff. ____ 2:20 p.m. Micah Lawrence has topped the 200-meter breaststroke qualifying at the U.S. swimming trials. She was fastest in the morning heats with a time of 2 minutes, 26.27 seconds in a bid to make her second Olympic team. Four years ago in London, Lawrence finished sixth in the event. Also advancing to the evening semifinals is Lilly King, who is already on the U.S. team, and Breeja Larson, sixth in the 100 breast in London. ____ 2:00 p.m. NBC says it will provide 85 hours of virtual reality programming during the Rio Olympics in August, available only to users of Samsung Galaxy smartphones and the Samsung Gear VR headset. It's the first time Olympics programming will be available in virtual reality. The Olympics video, which will be presented on delay during the games, will include opening and closing ceremonies, men's basketball, gymnastics and track events. Other virtualized sports will include beach volleyball, diving, boxing and fencing. NBC Olympics president Gary Zenkel says the Rio Games will provide a showcase for the "cutting-edge" technology. Viewers also will need the NBC Sports app. ____ 1:50 p.m. Matt Grevers may have competed in the last race of his career. The six-time Olympic medalist qualified for the semifinals of the 200-meter backstroke at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials Thursday, but he knows he's got no chance of actually making the team in that event. Grevers is considering whether to scratch from the evening session, which would likely mark the end of his storied career even though he's also entered in the 50 freestyle. Grevers won four golds and six medals overall at the last two Olympics. The 31-year-old was hoping to make the team one more time, but he finished third about a half-second out of a spot for Rio in the 100 back. That was the race he won at the 2012 London Games. Grevers says he's proud of his career and appreciative of all the support he's received since his loss in the 100 back. He's also about to become a father for the first time. ____ 1:40 p.m. World champion Vivian Cheruiyot has qualified for the Olympics by winning the 10,000 meters at Kenya's track and field trials. Sally Kipyego, the silver medalist at the 2012 Olympics, was the first big name to miss out on the opening day of the trials after finishing sixth in the 10,000 final. Betsy Saina qualified after finishing second and Alice Aprot earned a wild-card place. World silver medalist Caleb Ndiku is looking forward to another shot at Olympic and world champion Mo Farah in Rio after winning the men's 5,000 meters. World-record holder and Olympic champion David Rudisha won his 800 meters semifinal in his best time of the year. ____ 1:15 p.m. Jacob Pebley has qualified with the fastest time in the 200-meter backstroke at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials. His time of 1 minute, 56.29 seconds led 16 men into the evening semifinals on Day 5 of the eight-day meet. Defending Olympic champion Tyler Clary was second fastest in 1:56.85. Also advancing were 100 back trials winner Ryan Murphy and Matt Grevers, whose third-place finish in the 100 back cost him a chance to defend his gold medal in Rio. Coming up later in the preliminary session is Michael Phelps, who turns 31 on Thursday. ___ 12:40 p.m. Abbey Weitzeil is the top qualifier for the 100-meter freestyle at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials. The 19-year-old sprinter based in California was timed in 53.58 seconds in Thursday's preliminaries. Amanda Weir, a 30-year-old former Olympian, was second fastest in 53.76. Among others advancing to the 16-woman evening semifinals is Dana Vollmer, Simone Manuel, Kelsi Worrell, Katie Ledecky, Lia Neal, Missy Franklin, Olivia Smoliga, Natalie Coughlin, and Allison Schmitt. ____ 12:20 p.m. Olympic gold medalist Nicola Adams will headline Britain's largest Olympic boxing squad in 32 years at the Rio Games. Britain, the third-most successful country in Olympic boxing, will have a 12-strong squad in Brazil 10 men and two women. Adams, who won gold in the flyweight category in London in 2012, will look to become Britain's first two-time Olympic boxing champion. Mark England, Britain's chef de mission, says it "demonstrates the strength this sport and our boxing program can boast across the weight divisions." Britain has won 53 medals in boxing at the Olympic Games 17 gold, 12 silver and 24 bronze. ____ 12 p.m. Former No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki has won her appeal for a tennis spot in the Rio Olympics, while 14-time major champion Rafael Nadal's status is still up in the air. The International Tennis Federation released a provisional entry list for Rio on Thursday, and 2008 gold medalist Nadal's participation is contingent on either making himself available for Spain's Davis Cup matches in July or an ITF Olympic Committee appeal. Wozniacki already has been picked as Denmark's flag-bearer for the Olympics. She appealed for a berth in the event, saying injuries prevented her from meeting the Fed Cup requirements. The top three men's players in the world Novak Djokovic of Serbia, 2012 gold medalist Andy Murray of Britain, and Roger Federer of Switzerland are all in the field for Rio, where tennis begins Aug. 6. The U.S. tennis team is led by past gold medalists Serena and Venus Williams. The American men on the provisional list include 589th-ranked Brian Baker. ____ 11:40 a.m. Kanak Jha is having quite a year. He spent nine months playing professional table tennis in Europe, threw out the first pitch at a New York Mets game on his birthday and qualified for the Rio Olympics. And the kid from California is only 16. U.S. Olympic coach Massimo Costantini says Jha has "a good fighting spirit." Players need "a strong mental balance," especially when competing against the Chinese, who dominate the sport in the Olympics. Since 1988, China has won 47 medals, followed by South Korea (18) and Germany (5). The U.S. has never won a medal. Olympic teammate Jennifer Wu moved from Beijing to New York eight years ago and became an American citizen. Wu says "table tennis in China is like the NBA here, everybody plays." ____ 10 a.m. Michael Phelps will see several new faces on the U.S. team at the Rio Games. Phelps was just 15 when he made the first of his five Olympic teams in 2000. Now he's 31 and getting ready to hang up his suit after Rio. David Plummer made the Olympic team on his third try. The 30-year-old from Oklahoma City recently finished second in the 100 backstroke at the U.S. swimming trials to qualify. Like Phelps, he's the father of a baby boy. Among the Olympic hopefuls are Lilly King and Olivia Smogliga. The 19-year-old King broke the American record in the 100- and 200-yard breaststrokes while winning a pair of NCAA titles for Indiana in March. Smogliga is one of the taller female athletes at 6-foot-2. She won NCAA titles in the 50 and 100 freestyles for Georgia. Her biggest previous international competition was the 2015 Pan Am Games, where she qualified to swim the 100 back in Rio by finishing second. ____ 9:20 a.m. Kacey Oberlander is missing her dogs back home, and she's more than a little stressed competing in the high-pressure environment at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Nebraska. That's where Holly comes in. The adorable, 4-year-old Havanese is available for petting and furry hugs. Yep, these Olympic trials have gone to the dogs and the athletes are loving it. USA Swimming, in an effort to ease some of the anxiety accompanying such a major meet, has partnered with Domesti-PUPS a nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, Nebraska. It's providing the four-legged companions for the athletes' lounge. Oberlander says its calms her down "to see the happy puppy dogs running around when everything is so intense and everyone's so serious." Oberlander swims for York YMCA in Pennsylvania and will attend Alabama in the fall. ____ 8:40 a.m. Double shooting gold medalist Michael Diamond has been ruled ineligible to represent Australia at the Rio Olympics. Diamond was charged by police last month with drunk driving and firearms offenses, which he denies. But he'd not due in court again until July 25, which is past the Australian Olympic Committee's deadline of July 4 for selection. The 44-year-old Diamond appeared before the AOC's executive committee Thursday to argue his case for selection. The committee later upheld Shooting Australia's decision not to nominate Diamond for selection in trap shooting. _____ 8:30 a.m. Possible new slogan for the U.S. Olympic track team: Higher, Faster, Younger. There could be a youth movement underway on the track over the next two weeks. A group of up-and-comers are angling for spots on America's Olympic track team, hoping to duplicate the success a new crop of swimmers is making at that sport's trials in Omaha, Nebraska. That includes 17-year-old sprinter Candace Hill, longshot possibility to make the U.S. squad for the Rio Olympics in the 100 meters, 200 meters or perhaps even both. Hill is already the world's fastest girl ever, courtesy of a number of youth records she set last season, including in the 200, which she ran in 22.43 seconds. Ryan Lochte swims in the men's 200-meter individual medley preliminaries at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner) Caeleb Dressel, left, and Nathan Adrian start a men's 100-meter freestyle semifinal at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Cammile Adams swims in a women's 200-meter butterfly semifinal at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Missy Franklin dives at the start of her heat in the women's 100-meter freestyle preliminaries at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Josh Prenot swims in a men's 200-meter breaststroke semifinal at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) A women competitor casts a shadow during the 20-kilometer race walk at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Salem Ore. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) Maria Michta-Coffey, winner, middle, Miranda Melville, second place, left, and Katie Burnett, third place, celebrate after the womens 20-kilometer race walk at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Salem Ore. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) Michael Phelps waits for his heat in the preliminaries of the men's 200-meter individual medley at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb., Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner) Michael Phelps smiles after winning the men's 200-meter butterfly final, and qualifying for the Olympic team, at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Michael Phelps hugs his fiancee, Nicole Johnson and their baby, Boomer, after winning the men's 200-meter butterfly at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Lilly King swims in the women's 200-meter breaststroke preliminaries at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb., Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner) Matt Grevers checks his time after his heat in the men's 200-meter backstroke preliminaries at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Missy Frankln, right, checks out a stuffed shark after receiving her medal with teammate Katie Ledecky, left, for the women's 4x200-meter relay at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb., Wednesday, June 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark reacts after losing a point to Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia during their women's singles match on day two of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Tuesday, June 28, 2016. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis) In this June 18, 2016, photo, Yue "Jennifer" Wu serves the ball during an exhibition match in Dunellen, N.J. Wu is the first player to make the U.S. Olympic table tennis team by winning the Pan American Games. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson) In this June 18, 2016, photo, Kanak Jha returns a shot during an exhibition match in Dunellen, N.J. The 16-year-old qualified for the Olympic games in Rio as the youngest male table tennis player in Olympic history. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson) Lilly King, right, celebrates with Katie Meili, left, after King won the women's 100-meter breaststroke at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb., Tuesday, June 28, 2016. Meili finished in second place. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) David Plummer checks the clock after a men's 100-meter backstroke semifinal at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, Monday, June 27, 2016, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Larry, a goldendoodle, waits for athletes to arrive while working as a therapy dog at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Omaha, Neb., Wednesday, June 29, 2016. USA Swimming, in an effort to ease some of the anxiety accompanying such a major meet, has partnered with Domesti-PUPS, a nonprofit organization based in Lincoln, Neb., that is providing four-legged companions for the athletes' lounge. (AP Photo/Orlin Wagner) Bosnia's population shrank by nearly a quarter in 25 years SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina (AP) Authorities said Thursday Bosnia's population shrank by nearly a quarter over the past 25 years, a period marked by the devastating 1992-95 war that took 100,000 lives and turned almost half of the population into refugees either within the country or abroad. The results of the 2013 census were published a day after the legal deadline because Bosnian Serbs disagreed with the EU-recommended counting methodology that was applied. According to the results, 3.5 million people live in the country, compared with the nearly 4.4 million counted in 1991. Half of the population, or 50.11 percent, are Muslim Bosniaks, 15.43 percent are Roman Catholic Croats and 30.78 percent are Christian Orthodox Serbs, the report said. In 1991 the population consisted of 43.47 percent of Bosniaks, 17.38 percent Croats and 31.21 percent of Serbs. The rest were minorities. The worst conflict in Europe since World War II divided once ethnically mixed Bosnia along new ethnic lines and forced many people to flee to areas controlled by the armed forces of their own ethnic group. The country now consists of two semi-autonomous regions, linked by a joint government, a three-member presidency and a parliament. Although the ethnic cleansing was most severe in the Bosnian Serb half of the country, post-war refugee return brought the percentage of Bosniaks there from nearly zero in 1995 to 13.99 percent and the Croat population to 2.41 percent. However, in the other half, where political power is shared equally between 70.4 percent of Bosniaks and 22.4 Croats, the number of Serbs was reduced to 3.6 percent of the population. The Bosniak-Croat part has nearly twice as many residents as the Serb part. Sensitive Philippine comments on sea feud aired partly on TV MANILA, Philippines (AP) The new Philippine foreign secretary made sensitive remarks Thursday about territorial disputes in the South China Sea that were broadcast live by the state-run TV network before it abruptly cut away from its coverage of the new president's first Cabinet meeting. Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay's remarks during the meeting touched on how the government should respond to a much-anticipated international arbitration ruling on July 12. The Philippines brought its long-simmering disputes with China in the South China Sea to international arbitration in January 2013 after Beijing took control of disputed Scarborough Shoal following a standoff. After Rodrigo Duterte was sworn in as president Thursday, he called his first Cabinet meeting, where he expressed the need for the Philippines to fully study the impact of the ruling, whether favorable or not. Yasay spoke about an apparent wish by some foreign governments for Manila to issue a stronger statement about the dispute if the tribunal rules favorably. "I am adverse to that idea," he told Duterte and fellow Cabinet members, echoing the president's remarks on the need for the government to further study the ruling's repercussions. "There are lots of nuances that we do not know as yet," Yasay said. "But the bottom-line question is what will happen if the decision is in our favor," Yasay said, adding that China could potentially "dig in and put us to a test." If that happens, he said, "there is no point for us to yell." Journalists covering the president asked his spokesman why the delicate discussion was conducted on nationwide television, and if it was a mistake, but there was no immediate government explanation. Analyst Richard Heydarian of Manila's De La Salle University said the Philippines "is in the middle of a geopolitical chessboard, therefore, we have to exercise maximum discretion in discussing strategic options in the South China Sea, especially after the arbitration case is concluded." Duterte's predecessor, Benigno Aquino III, has said the United States brokered a deal for China and the Philippines to simultaneously withdraw their ships from the fishing region around Scarborough Shoal. The Philippines complied but China reneged on the agreement and its ships continue to guard the shoal, Philippine officials say. In its arbitration complaint, the Philippines questioned the validity of China's vast territorial claims under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. It also asked the arbitration tribunal in The Hague to classify whether several disputed areas were islands or low-tide coral outcrops to determine the stretch of territorial waters they project. China has argued against the tribunal's authority to hear the Philippine complaint, but the tribunal ruled last year that it has jurisdiction and will rule on the case. The United States, a treaty ally of the Philippines, and several other Western and Asian governments have called on China to comply with any decision. Albanian southern town erects bust of Hillary Clinton SARANDA, Albania (AP) A bust of U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was unveiled Thursday in the main square of Albania's southernmost city of Saranda to honor what officials say is her contribution to Albania in the international arena. The Saranda city council decided unanimously more than a month ago to erect the bust to depict Clinton's "dimension as a woman in politics, as a representative of the old Albania-U.S. friendship, for her contribution to the Albanian nation in different historical moments." Their efforts were aided by a local non-governmental organization and city hall. Saranda Mayor Florjana Koka said Clinton's bust was a way of sending thanks "to the American people and government for what they have done for the Albanian people and nation." She specifically mentioned Clinton's involvement with the Albanian community's issues in the United States, her promotion of the role of women, her denunciation of the Serb genocide and protection of Kosovo's independence. The Mayor of Saranda Florjana Koka, centre , poses with other local dignitaries after a ceremony unveiling a bust of U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton in honor of her contribution in the international arena for the Albanian nation in the town of Saranda Albania Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo) "We are convinced that Hillary Clinton's bust, as an emblematic figure of the American diplomacy and politics, with direct contributions to the Albanian people, honors not only Saranda but its citizens and friends worldwide," said Koka. "Clinton gives us the model of women in politics, diplomacy and governing at the most democratic country in the world." Albanian sculptor Idriz Balani and participants insisted it was not linked to the U.S. presidential process. "We thought of putting it in Saranda because Saranda is Albania's pearl and such a lady, whom I would paraphrase with the word 'pearl' too, would stay beautifully near Albania's pearl," said Balani. Saranda is a tourist town close to the ancient Roman archaeological spot of Butrint, near the Greek border. _____ Llazar Semini in Tirana contributed to this report. Romania calls for probe of 2 ex-prison chiefs for 204 deaths BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) A Romanian government institute tasked with investigating communist-era crimes has called for two former prison chiefs to be probed on suspicion of causing the deaths of 204 political prisoners. The Institute for Investigating the Crimes of Communism gave the files, based on written testimonies and state archives, to the general prosecutors' office on Thursday. Institute chief Radu Preda said Marian Petrescu, 84, commander of several labor colonies and prisons from 1956 to 1966, is suspected of running an abusive regime, leading to 104 deaths. Gheorghe Bostina, 86, is suspected of causing the deaths of 100 prisoners from 1957-1960. FILE - In this file photo taken Dec. 10, 2010, a bird flies above a guard tower in Fort 13 of the Jilava jail where numerous political prisoners were held and executed, in Jilava, Romania. A government institute tasked with investigating communist crimes has called for two former prison chiefs to be probed on suspicion of causing the deaths of 204 political prisoners.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, File) The institute could not say where the two men were. Testimonies connected to the cases spoke of arbitrary beatings, insufficient food, a lack of medical treatment, cold and exhaustion from hard labor endured in the camps. In 2013, the institute began investigating the deaths of thousands of political detainees. Two former prison commanders have been sentenced for crimes against humanity. An estimated 500,000 people who fell afoul of the communist regime after World War II were locked up in prisons and labor camps until a general amnesty was declared in 1964. FILE - In this file photo taken Dec. 10, 2010, a bird sits on a pole behind barbed wire fences in Fort 13 of the Jilava jail where numerous political prisoners were held and executed, in Jilava, Romania. A government institute tasked with investigating communist crimes has called for two former prison chiefs to be probed on suspicion of causing the deaths of 204 political prisoners.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, File) FILE - In this Dec. 10, 2010 file picture, a woman, who declined to be identified, holds a candle as she walks in a prison cell of the Fort 13 at the Jilava jail, in Jilava, Romania, during a religious service for the political prisoners that died here. A government institute tasked with investigating communist crimes has called for two former prison chiefs to be probed on suspicion of causing the deaths of 204 political prisoners.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, File) US takes Thailand off human trafficking blacklist WASHINGTON (AP) The United States removed Thailand from its human trafficking blacklist on Thursday, though forced labor remains widespread in the nation's lucrative seafood industry. The State Department made the assessment in its annual Trafficking in Persons Report, which examines 188 governments' efforts in combating modern-day slavery. Key U.S. trading partner Malaysia was taken off the blacklist controversially in 2015, soon after the discovery of mass graves of suspected trafficking victims. Malaysia retained its ranking, though it has initiated fewer trafficking investigations and prosecutions in the period covered by this year's report. The report was released by Secretary of State John Kerry, who called it an attempt to bring public attention to the full nature and scope of the $150 billion human trafficking industry that has snared some 20 million people. He said the conclusions were based on facts and did not take into account political or other factors. "There were some tough calls. In the end, they come down to an element of discretion, but not much, because we have a fixed set of rules that Congress has created, and we follow those rules," he said. The promotion for military-led Thailand could ease tensions with the U.S., its longtime ally. The Thai government reported an increase in prosecutions and convictions for trafficking and had lobbied hard for an upgrade after two years on "tier 3" the lowest ranking in report, which it had shared with the likes of North Korea and Syria. It is now on the "tier 2 watch list," which is for governments that do not fully meet the minimum standards of combating trafficking but are making significant efforts to do so. Labor abuses in the Thai seafood industry gained in prominence around the globe after a two-year investigation by The Associated Press that led to the freeing of more than 2,000 slaves and the arrest of more than a dozen alleged traffickers. Several have been convicted. Neighboring Myanmar, which recently shifted to a popularly elected civilian government after decades of military domination, was demoted to tier 3. It had faced a mandatory move up or down the rankings after four years on the watch list. The department said forced labor persists and that military and children are still being recruited into the armed forces. Myanmar's denial of legal status to minority Rohingya Muslims also increased their vulnerability to trafficking, it said. Rohingya have been targets of communal violence, and tens of thousands have fled the country. Myanmar's Foreign Ministry said the downgrade was regrettable and called on the U.S. not to impose restrictions that would hamper U.S.-Myanmar cooperation. President Barack Obama now has 90 days to determine whether to apply sanctions on tier 3 nations. But the U.S. often chooses not to, based on its national security interests, as it did last year for Thailand. Uzbekistan was put on tier 3 because of state-led forced labor in the cotton harvest. Djibouti, Haiti, Papua New Guinea, Sudan, Suriname and Turkmenistan were also demoted to the blacklist, while Kuwait was taken off. There are now 27 nations on tier 3. The advocacy group Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking welcomed the downgrades for Uzbekistan and Myanmar. Human Rights Watch echoed that, and said that the report generally reflected the record of countries around the world, but that the rankings of Thailand and Malaysia were "problematic." Thailand has been under immense international pressure to clean up its $7 billion annual seafood export industry. AP's reporting followed slave-caught seafood from fishing boats, to the Southeast Asian nation and on to American dinner tables. This month, the European Union warned Thailand to take "swift and determined action" to improve its fisheries and labor practices or face a possible EU ban on Thai seafood by year's end. The Thai Embassy in Washington said the report "recognizes the progress and significant efforts made by Thailand in the fight against human trafficking." The State Department credited Thailand for undertaking legal reforms; for convicting 241 traffickers during 2015, compared with 104 in 2014; and for filing criminal charges against 34 officials in 2015, up from seven in 2014. But the department said reports persist that some government officials are directly complicit in trafficking, and migrant workers, especially those who are undocumented, are fearful of reporting trafficking crimes and cooperating with authorities. Republican Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, author of the legislation that mandates the trafficking rankings, said the Obama administration has failed to correct last year's "egregious" upgrade for Malaysia, which he linked to its participation in the U.S.-backed Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement. He also accused the administration of turning a blind eye to abuses in Cuba, which was removed last year from tier 3 after diplomatic normalization with Washington. Democratic Sen. Robert Menendez of New Jersey said Malaysia had failed to prosecute anyone in connection with the discovery of the mass graves at the Malaysia-Thai border in May 2015. He said he would introduce legislation to reform the tier ranking process. ____ 'Active shooter' report at military base was false alarm JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (AP) The military base outside Washington where the presidential plane Air Force One is stationed was temporarily locked down Thursday after an "active shooter" report that turned out to be a false alarm. The report stemmed from someone who made a distress call after seeing security forces doing a routine inspection. The confusion was heightened by a planned active-shooter drill at Joint Base Andrews that had not yet begun. Officials said in a Facebook post Thursday that there was no shooter and no threat to the base or workers there. The base about 20 miles from Washington was placed on lockdown about 9 a.m. About an hour and a half later, the military post tweeted that the lockdown had been lifted, except for the medical building where the active shooter was reported. In a later statement, the base confirmed there was no gunman and no threat to public safety. People with arms raised people are lead out of the Malcolm Grow Medical facility on Andrews AFB in Morningside, Md., when the base wasplaced on lockdown after an active shooter was reported, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Officials say reports of an active shooter at the military post stemmed from someone who made a distress call Thursday after seeing security forces doing a routine inspection. (Linda Davidson/The Washington Post via AP) /The Washington Post via AP) WASHINGTON TIMES OUT; NEW YORK TIMES OUT;THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER AND USA TODAY OUT; MAGS OUT; NO SALES; MANDATORY CREDIT "Fortunately, this was not a life-threatening situation," Col. Brad Hoagland, 11th Wing and base commander, said in the post. "We take all threats seriously and reacted to ensure the security of those on the base." Joint Base Andrews is home to the presidential air fleet, and the president, vice president and other senior government officials fly in and out of the base. Vice President Joe Biden was scheduled to leave from Andrews on Thursday morning, but his trip was delayed by the lockdown. Biden was due in Columbus, Ohio, for a midday campaign event for former Gov. Ted Strickland, who is running for Senate. President Barack Obama was last at the base Wednesday night when he returned from a trip to Ottawa, Canada. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said the situation was handled relatively well, despite the apparent communication problem that led to the false report. "I think we need to pay attention to how to minimize the chances of false alarms like that," Carter said. "At the same time, I think it's important to have a reasonable level of awareness of the possibility of this kind of event and what to do, and I thought the response was strong and solid." Emergency vehicles in the area of the base had on lights Thursday, but no sirens. At least three people in camouflage and helmets could be seen walking working dogs around the three-story medical building. About 10:15 a.m., a few people could be seen walking out of the building, including a person being moved in a wheelchair. Chris Grollneck, an active-shooter-prevention consultant who has worked on training at Army and Air Force bases, said the response to the report at Andrews was well-orchestrated and shows how much the military's training for active-shooter situations has improved. He also said the person who reported the shooter should be praised for taking the "see something, say something" message seriously. "There was no catastrophic failure," Grollneck said. "Everybody took a pause, everybody evaluated what was going on and they started bouncing information off one another and realized there was no shooter." Rodney Smith, the patient advocate at the Andrews medical facility, said he knew about the scheduled active-shooter exercise but then got reports of a real shooter and was told to stay in place. "First it was an active-shooter exercise. Then it came back 'real world,'" Smith said by phone during the lockdown Thursday morning. ___ Nuckols reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Sarah Brumfield, Robert Burns and Eric Tucker in Washington. ___ This story has been corrected to show that Ted Strickland is a former, not current, governor of Ohio. Security personnel patrol outside the Malcolm Grow Medical facility on Andrews AFB in Morningside, Md., when the base was placed on lockdown about 9 a.m. after an active shooter was reported, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Officials say reports of an active shooter at the military post stemmed from someone who made a distress call Thursday after seeing security forces doing a routine inspection. (Linda Davidson/The Washington Post via AP) /The Washington Post via AP) WASHINGTON TIMES OUT; NEW YORK TIMES OUT;THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER AND USA TODAY OUT; MAGS OUT; NO SALES; MANDATORY CREDIT Medical personnel are escorted out of the Malcolm Grow Medical facility on Andrews AFB in Morningside, Md., when the base wasplaced on lockdown about 9 a.m. after an active shooter was reported, Thursday, June 30, 2016. Officials say reports of an active shooter at the military post stemmed from someone who made a distress call Thursday after seeing security forces doing a routine inspection. (Linda Davidson/The Washington Post via AP) /The Washington Post via AP) WASHINGTON TIMES OUT; NEW YORK TIMES OUT;THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER AND USA TODAY OUT; MAGS OUT; NO SALES; MANDATORY CREDIT The Malcolm Grow Medical Center is seen at Joint Base Andrew, Md., Thursday, June 30, 2016. The military post near Washington said a lockdown was lifted Thursday except for a medical building where an active shooter was reported earlier in the day. Joint Base Andrews said in a tweet that the all-clear was given for the base except for the medical building. The base did not say why the Malcolm Grow Medical Facility remained on lockdown. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- A south Louisiana sheriff was taped making anti-Semitic threats that he apparently directed at a federal prosecutor assigned to a civil rights case against him, according to a court filing. Prosecutors said in Wednesday's court filing that an "unsolicited informant" recently provided them with a series of recorded conversations between Iberia Parish Sheriff Louis Ackal and others. A transcript of one conversation includes Ackal recounting a meeting with a prosecutor in which the sheriff claims he threatened to shoot the prosecutor right between his "Jewish eyes" after the prosecutor vowed to send him to prison. Ackal's meeting with the prosecutor and other federal authorities occurred before Ackal's original March 9 indictment on charges over the alleged beatings of five jail inmates, prosecutors said. "Although the conversation was frank, it was cordial and professional and is mischaracterized by Mr. Ackal in this recording," prosecutors from U.S. Attorney Stephanie Finley's office wrote. Prosecutors say that they believe Ackal made those taped remarks on March 14, but that they didn't learn of them until after his March 31 arraignment. Prosecutors argue that Ackal's remarks are grounds for tightening the conditions of his pre-trial release. A federal magistrate in Lafayette didn't immediately rule on their request to bar Ackal from possessing any weapons and require him to submit to unannounced inspections of his home, vehicle and office. "The Government believes that the proposed conditions are reasonable and are the least restrictive to ensure the safety of others," prosecutors wrote. Ackal's attorney, John McLindon, said he hasn't heard the tapes. "Before I can comment, I'd like to hear the tapes to see if they're legitimate," he said. "I want to find out who did the recording and who sent them in there to do that." Ackal didn't immediately respond to a message left at the sheriff's office. Ackal's trial is scheduled to start Oct. 31. His original indictment claims he directed officers to assault inmates in the parish jail's chapel, where no video surveillance cameras would record the April 2011 beatings. Earlier this month, Ackal was indicted on a new charge that he conspired in 2014 to assault a man who was accused of assaulting one of Ackal's relatives. Nine former employees of the Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office already have pleaded guilty to related charges. Journey to Jupiter: NASA spacecraft nears planet rendezvous LOS ANGELES (AP) Jupiter takes center stage with the arrival next week of a NASA spacecraft built to peek through its thick, swirling clouds and map the planet from the inside out. The solar-powered Juno spacecraft is on the final leg of a five-year, 1.8 billion-mile (2.8 billion-kilometer) voyage to the biggest planet in the solar system. Juno promises to send back the best close-up views as it circles the planet for a year. Jupiter is a gas giant made up mostly of hydrogen and helium unlike rocky Earth and its neighbor Mars. The fifth planet from the sun likely formed first and it could hold clues to how the solar system developed. This composite image provided by NASA on Thursday, June 30, 2016 illustrates auroras on the planet Jupiter. This view was produced by NASA using a photograph made by the Hubble Space Telescope in spring 2014, and ultraviolet observations of the auroras in 2016. Earths polar lights are triggered by solar storms, which occur when a cloud of gas from the sun encounters the planets magnetic field. Jupiters powerful auroras are sparked by the planets own rotation. (NASA/ESA/Hubble via AP) A look at the $1.1 billion mission: THE ARRIVAL As Juno approaches Jupiter late Monday, it will fire its main rocket engine to slow down and slip into orbit around the planet. This carefully orchestrated move, all preprogrammed, is critical because Juno will zip past Jupiter if it fails to brake. The engine burn lasting about a half hour is designed to put Juno on a path that loops over Jupiter's poles. Since it takes 48 minutes for radio signals from Jupiter to reach Earth, mission controllers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California won't be able to intervene if something goes awry. They'll watch for beeps from Juno that'll signal whether the engine burn is going as planned. "Everything's riding on it," Juno chief scientist Scott Bolton said Thursday during a press briefing. THE MISSION Spacecraft have visited Jupiter since the 1970s, but there are still plenty of questions left unanswered. How much water does the planet have? Is there a dense core? Why is its signature Great Red Spot a hurricane-like storm that has been raging for centuries shrinking? During the mission, Juno will peer through Jupiter's dense clouds, flying within 3,100 miles (5,000 kilometers), closer than any other spacecraft. The goal "is learning about the recipe for how solar systems are made," said Bolton, who's from the Southwest Research Institute in Texas. Earlier visitors included the Voyagers and Pioneers, Galileo, Ulysses, Cassini and most recently, New Horizons, which reached Pluto last year. Most were quick flybys en route to other destinations. Only Galileo named for the Italian astronomer who discovered Jupiter's large moons orbited the massive planet and even released a probe. THE SPACECRAFT Named after the cloud-piercing wife of the Roman god Jupiter, Juno carries nine instruments to map Jupiter's interior and study its turbulent atmosphere. Also stowed aboard are three mini figures of Jupiter, Juno and Galileo designed by the Lego Group. The Italian Space Agency donated a plaque inscribed with Galileo's writings. Previous trips to Jupiter have relied on nuclear power because of the distance from the sun. Juno is the first spacecraft to venture this far out on solar power. Juno, about the size of an SUV, has three tractor-trailer-size solar wings that extend outward like blades from a windmill. The solar panels are designed to face the sun during most of the mission. After its launch on Aug. 5, 2011, Juno took a roundabout journey to Jupiter, swinging around the inner solar system and using Earth as a gravity boost to the outer solar system. THE PICTURES The Hubble Space Telescope and other spacecraft have returned stunning pictures of Jupiter, including a new photo released Thursday of its northern lights. But scientists said the best views are yet to come. Juno will get in closer and will provide the most detailed look at the planet's polar regions, clouds and auroras. The camera onboard the JunoCam has been snapping pictures of Earth, Jupiter and its moons along the way. But the camera and other instruments were turned off this week to avoid any interference during the critical arrival. So there won't be images at the nail-biting moment when Juno enters orbit around Jupiter. The public can also vote on where to point the camera. NASA has said pictures from the mission won't be publicly released until at least late August. THE FINISH Once Juno wraps up its work, it will deliberately dive into Jupiter's atmosphere and burn up. The fiery finale expected in 2018 ensures that the spacecraft doesn't accidentally crash into Jupiter's moons, particularly the icy moon Europa, a prime target for future missions. ___ Online: Mission page: http://tinyurl.com/Jupitermission ___ Follow Alicia Chang on Twitter: @SciWriAlicia This artist's rendering provided by NASA and JPL-Caltech shows the Juno spacecraft above the planet Jupiter. Five years after its launch from Earth, Juno is scheduled to go into orbit around the gas giant on Monday, July 4, 2016. (NASA/JPL-Caltech via AP) FILE - In this Friday, Aug. 5, 2011 file photo, an Atlas V rocket carrying the Juno spacecraft lifts off from Space Launch Complex-41 in Cape Canaveral, Fla. It was the first step in Juno's 1.7 billion-mile voyage to the gas giant planet, Jupiter. (AP Photo/Terry Renna) The Latest: Shooter report stemmed from misunderstanding JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (AP) The Latest on reports of an active shooter at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington (all times local): 11:45 a.m. Officials say reports of an active shooter at a military post outside Washington stemmed from someone who made a distress call after seeing security forces doing a routine inspection. In this photo taken July 15, 2016, President Barack Obama rides in his limousine as he arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Md. Joint Base Andrews tweets that the base is on lockdown due to a report of an active shooter. The tweet sent Thursday, June 30, 2016, instructs all personnel at the base in Washington's Maryland suburbs to shelter in place and says more information will be released as it comes. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) The confusion was heightened by a planned active shooter drill at Joint Base Andrews that had not yet begun and was planned for later in the morning. The base said in a Facebook post Thursday that there was no shooter and no threat to the base or workers there. The base had been placed on lockdown after an active shooter was reported. The base is home to Air Force One and is about 20 miles from Washington. ___ 10:45 a.m. A military post near Washington says a lockdown has been lifted, except for the medical building where an active shooter was reported. Joint Base Andrews said in a tweet Thursday morning that the all-clear was given for the base except for the medical building. The base did not say why the building remained on lockdown. A law enforcement official says no active shooter was found at a military post outside Washington. The law enforcement official was not authorized to discuss the matter by name and spoke on condition of anonymity. The base had been placed on lockdown after an active shooter was reported. The base is home to Air Force One and is about 20 miles from Washington. ___ 10:35 a.m. A law enforcement official says no active shooter was found at a military post outside Washington. The law enforcement official was not authorized to discuss the matter by name and spoke on condition of anonymity. Joint Base Andrews had been placed on lockdown Thursday morning after an active shooter was reported. The base is home to Air Force One and is about 20 miles from Washington. An active shooter exercise had also been planned at the base, but officials said the situation became "real world." The situation unfolded at a medical facility on the post. Joint Base Andrews issued a tweet telling all personnel at the base in Washington's Maryland suburbs to shelter in place. ___ Associated Press writer Eric Tucker contributed to this report from Washington. ___ 10:30 a.m. Vice President Joe Biden was scheduled to leave from Andrews on Thursday morning, but his trip has been delayed by the lockdown. The vice president's office says he is waiting out the delay at his residence at the Naval Observatory in Washington. Biden was due in Columbus, Ohio for a midday campaign event for former Gov. Ted Strickland, who is running for Senate. The president, vice president and other senior government officials fly in and out of Joint Base Andrews. The base is the home of Air Force One and other aircraft used for official travel. President Barack Obama was last at the base Wednesday night when he returned from a trip to Ottawa, Canada. ___ This story has been corrected to show that Strickland is former, not current, Ohio governor. ___ 10:20 a.m. Emergency vehicles with lights on but no sirens are in the area of a military base on lockdown after an active shooter was reported on the post. At least three people in camouflage and helmets could be seen walking working dogs around the three-story medical building at Joint Base Andrews. The post is home to Air Force One and is about 20 miles outside Washington. The base was put on lockdown Thursday morning after an active shooter was reported. An active shooter exercise had been planned, but officials say reports of a real-world active shooter came in. Around 10:15 a.m., a few people could be seen walking out of the building, including a person being wheeled in a wheelchair. Helicopters hovered overhead, but it is unclear if they are news or military helicopters. ___ 10:10 a.m. Officials say first responders are trying to secure the scene of an active shooter report at a military post near Washington. Joint Base Andrews, which is about 20 miles outside the nation's capital and is home to Air Force One, said in a tweet Thursday that the base is reacting to the active shooter report to ensure the safety of all personnel. It was not immediately clear if any shots were fired or if anyone was wounded. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson says there is an "unfolding situation" at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland but is providing no further details. The base tweeted Thursday morning that it was on lockdown after reports of an active shooter. ___ 10 a.m. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson says there is an "unfolding situation" at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland but is providing no further details. The base, which is home to Air Force One, tweeted Thursday that the base is on lockdown due to a report of an active shooter. The tweet instructs all personnel at the base in Washington's Maryland suburbs to shelter in place and says more information will be released as it comes. Johnson is testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee. He says he may have to take a break from the hearing as the situation at Andrews develops. ___ 9:55 a.m. An employee at a medical facility at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington says an active-shooter drill had been planned, but officials later told workers it was a "real-world" situation. Rodney Smith is a patient advocate at the military post's medical facility. He said Thursday that he was on lockdown and didn't have any more information. Smith said by phone: "First it was an active-shooter exercise. Then it came back 'real world.'" Smith said the situation was unfolding at the newer of two buildings at the Malcolm Grow Medical Facility on the base. He was in the older building. Joint Base Andrews said in a tweet that the incident is ongoing and that first responders are on scene. ___ 9:50 a.m. Joint Base Andrews tweets that the base is on lockdown due to a report of an active shooter. The tweet sent Thursday morning instructs all personnel at the base in Washington's Maryland suburbs to shelter in place and says more information will be released as it comes. A second tweet from the base says the incident is ongoing at the Malcolm Grow Medical Facility and first responders are on the scene. It instructs everyone to continue to shelter in place, a precaution meant to keep people safe while remaining indoors. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson confirms the reports of an active shooter at Joint Base Andrews, Md., as he appears before the Senate Judiciary Committee for an oversight hearing on his cabinet agency, Thursday, June 30, 2016, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson confirms the reports of an active shooter at Joint Base Andrews, Md., as he appears before the Senate Judiciary Committee for an oversight hearing on his cabinet agency, Thursday, June 30, 2016, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson confirms the reports of an active shooter at Joint Base Andrews, Md., as he appears before the Senate Judiciary Committee for an oversight hearing on his cabinet agency, Thursday, June 30, 2016, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, closes the door to a room where Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson was monitoring reports of an active shooter at Joint Base Andrews, Md., prior to an appearance before the committee, Thursday, June 30, 2016, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Official: Suicide attack on Afghan police convoy kills 37 KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) Taliban militants launched a twin suicide attack on Thursday, targeting a convoy of buses carrying Afghan police cadets outside of the capital and killing 37 people, mostly policemen, and wounding 40, an Afghan official said. The attack took place in Paghman district, some 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of Kabul, according to Mousa Rahmati, the district governor of Paghman. The first suicide attacker struck two buses carrying trainee policemen, and a second attacker targeted those who rushed to the scene to help and also hit a third bus, Rahmati said. He said that four civilians were among those killed. Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) The cadets were returning from a training center in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave, Rahmati said. In a statement later on Thursday, the Interior Ministry said that 30 police recruits had been killed and 58 others wounded in the attack. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the different casualty figures. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack in an email sent to The Associated Press by spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Mujahid said that the attack was the work of two suicide bombers. The first targeted the bus carrying the trainee policemen and their instructors. A second bomber attacked 20 minutes later, when policemen had arrived at the scene to help, according to Mujahid's account. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an "attack on humanity" in a statement and ordered an Interior Ministry investigation into the incident. In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul condemned the attack. "This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramadan is abhorrent," it said. Later Thursday, and attack on a convoy carrying security forces in eastern Ghazni province killed two and wounded four troops, said Jaweed Salangi, spokesman for the provincial governor. The attack took place in Andar district as the convoy was en route from Paktika province toward Ghazni, Salangi said, adding that the deputy chief of the Paktika intelligence service was among those killed. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack in Ghazni, though the Taliban are known to be active in the province. The Taliban have lately stepped up their attacks as part of their summer offensive. The insurgents frequently target convoys of Afghan troops or buses carrying civil servants or those perceived to be working for the Kabul government. Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghans look out their windows after a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan, Thursday, June 30, 2016. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others on Thursday, an Afghan official said. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) Italian bank UniCredit taps Mustier as CEO to boost profits ROME (AP) The board of Italy's largest bank, UniCredit, has named Jean-Pierre Mustier as CEO as it tries to improve its profitability and help the shares recover from a slump this year. Mustier, who held several positions at French bank Societe Generale before first joining UniCredit in 2011, replaces Federico Ghizzoni. UniCredit announced Ghizzoni's resignation last month amid investor discontent over the bank's weak capital position and low profitability. Ghizzoni's nearly six-year tenure spanned the sovereign debt crisis and Italian recession, and has been marked recently by cost-cutting and moves to shrink its load of impaired loans. In Panama for business? Take a side trip to the famous canal PANAMA CITY (AP) Dozens of spectators gawk from an observation deck as a bulk freighter carrying grains from the United States to China inches its way closer. Forty-ton locomotives known as mules latch onto the massive vessel with cables and guide it inside the Miraflores locks, employing a mechanical precision that keeps it from banging into the concrete walls despite the tight fit. The ship's crossing through the Panama Canal is nearly complete as the 700-ton steel doors swing shut. While most of their bulk is hidden underneath the water, they're as tall as an eight-story building and the same ones that have been doing the job for over a century. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. In this June 25, 2016 photo, two canal workers on a small rowboat catch a line from a massive cargo ship as it prepares to enter the Pedro Miguel locks in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. Although the Pedro Miguel locks do not have a visitor's center, the parking lot offers a good viewpoint to see the activity at the locks. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) Shipping geeks in particular will delight at this engineering marvel that revolutionized global maritime trade when it opened for business on Aug. 15, 1914, but it also appeals to a broader audience with nearly 3,000 people visiting each day during the January-April high season. The Miraflores Visitor Center offers several stories of space with an up-close view of the machinations of the canal, where ships pass through about 35-40 times a day. With each crossing, an enthusiastic guide informed visitors on a recent sticky, tropical morning, the locks fill with about 26 million gallons (100 million liters) of fresh water that then spill into the Pacific Ocean. "I'm impressed by the magnitude of this operation," said Vicky Londono, a Colombian traveler who flew into the airport that day with her husband and hopped in a cab to see the canal before continuing to their final destination, Madrid. The Canal Authority threw a big bash on Monday to formally inaugurate its new Cocoli locks, which doubled the waterway's capacity and can accommodate huge New Panamax-class vessels that carry up to three times as much cargo as those previously able to fit. There will be no separate viewing platform at Cocoli for at least two years, but for now you can see some of the action at a distance from Miraflores. Tip: Bring binoculars. "This is spectacular," said Tom Matz, a retired lawyer from New York, as a sky-blue liquid petroleum gas ship emerged from Cocoli bound for the Atlantic. "The past, present and future of the canal, all right here." Getting to the canal is a snap, with a host of travel agencies and hotel tours competing for your business. For $30 or so, depending on your willingness to haggle, taxi drivers will take you from the city center and pick you up a couple of hours later. Plan on $60 or more if you're starting from the airport, as well as a 30- to 45-minute cab ride there possibly longer due to Panama City's chronic traffic congestion. If no ship is passing through right when you arrive, while away the time in the facility's theater and museum for comprehensive exhibits on the canal and its construction which claimed the lives of more than 25,000 workers, most of them from Caribbean islands, and mostly from tropical diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. A simulator lets you play captain and virtually maneuver a ship through the locks. There's also a snack bar, and a pricier restaurant upstairs that stays open into the evening. ___ If You Go ... PANAMA CANAL: Miraflores Visitor Center, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults (non-Panamanians), $15. Busiest time for crossings: 9-11 a.m. Schedules for ship crossings: http://visitcanaldepanama.com/en/ . Additional viewing platforms located at old and new Atlantic locks near the northern city of Colon, about an hour away by car. GUIDED TOURS: These well-established travel agencies offer canal visits: Pesantez Tours, http://www.pesantez-tours.com/ Viajes Arco Iris, http://www.arcoirispanama.com.pa/ City Sightseeing Panama, http://www.city-sightseeing.com/tours/panama/panama-city.htm RESTAURANT: Atlantic & Pacific Co.: http://www.atlanticpacificrestaurant.com/ ___ In this June 24, 2016 photo, Tourists visit the Agua Clara locks during the last test of the newly expanded Panama Canal, in Agua Clara, Panama. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) In this June 24, 2016 photo, People take photos at sunset from a footbridge in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) In this June 24, 2016 photo, Tourists visit the Agua Clara locks during the last test of the newly expanded Panama Canal in Agua Clara, Panama. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion.(AP Photo/Moises Castillo) In this June 24, 2016 photo, a couple sits in a bench overlooking the skyline at the seaside Democracy Plaza in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion.(AP Photo/Moises Castillo) In this June 25, 2016 photo, A cargo ship passes through the Miraflores locks during its transit through the Panama Canal in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) In this June 25, 2016 photo, a cargo ship prepares to cross the Miraflores locks, as seen from the visitor's observation deck, in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) In this June 25, 2016 photo, a cargo ship prepares to cross the Miraflores locks, as seen from the visitor's observation deck, in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) In this June 25, 2016 photo, a cargo ship prepares to cross the Miraflores locks, as seen from the visitor's observation deck, in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) In this June 25, 2016 photo, a cargo ship prepares to cross the Miraflores locks, as seen from the visitor's observation deck, in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) In this June 25, 2016 photo, a person walks through one of the Miraflores locks, as seen from the visitor's observation deck, in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills) In this June 24, 2016 photo, tourist take a break during their walk at the seaside Balboa Avenue in Panama City. As a major Latin American hub of finance, commerce and transportation, the Panamanian capital is a growing destination for business travelers. For anyone looking to duck out of a convention center for a few hours, fill a gap between meetings or even if you've just got a long layover at the airport, a visit to Panama City's No. 1 attraction and its newly expanded locks makes for the perfect side excursion. (AP Photo/Moises Castillo) Airport attack comes just as Turkey tries to rebuild bridges ANKARA, Turkey (AP) When he took office in May, Turkey's prime minister declared it was time for the country to put its international affairs in order and reclaim its place as an oasis of stability in a war-torn region. Turkey was trying to do just that mending fences with both Israel and Russia only this week when suicide bombers hit its main airport, throwing those plans into disarray. Tuesday's gun-and-bomb attacks killed more than 40 people, including at least 10 foreigners, and highlighted Turkey's precarious position on the borders of Syria and Iraq. Just a day earlier, Turkey and Israel had announced a deal ending six years of acrimony, and Turkey had expressed regret to Russia over its downing of a warplane, paving the way for reconciliation with Moscow. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim pinned the airport attack on the Islamic State group, which is battling an array of enemies in Iraq and Syria including Western powers and Russia. Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim addresses lawmakers at the parliament a day after he announced the details of an agreement reached with Israel, in Ankara, Turkey, Tuesday, June 28, 2016. Israel and Turkey struck a broad reconciliation pact Monday that will restore full diplomatic relations after six years of animosity between the once-close Mideast powers. (AP Photo) "It is meaningful that this heinous attack came at a time when we have become successful in the fight against separatist terrorism... and at a time when we started a process of normalizing ties with our neighbors," Yildirim said. Sabah newspaper, which is close to the government, called the attack a "treacherous ambush on peace," saying it came as Turkey was spearheading peace initiatives that would "change regional balances." While any direct link between the attack and Turkey's reconciliation efforts is uncertain, there is no doubt that it has a destabilizing effect on a country where a renewed conflict with Kurdish separatists and a spate of attacks by the IS group have kept tourists and investments away. Turkey's crackdown on dissenting voices and media freedoms has also hurt its international standing. Giray Sadik of Ankara's Yildirim Beyazit University said such attacks are usually pre-planned, making any connection to Monday's normalization moves unlikely. But, he said, "it will harm Turkey's image. It came at a time when (Turkey) was hoping that the rapprochement with Russia would revive its tourism industry." The charm offensive with Israel and Russia follows several years of foreign policy bungles that crippled Turkey's influence in the region and left it with few friends. Relations between Israel and Turkey began to decline after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose party has Islamist roots, became prime minister in 2003 and got even worse when he criticized Israeli operations against Palestinians. They reached an all-time low over Israel's 2010 raid against a Turkish ship aiming to breech the blockade of Gaza. Nine Turks, including a dual American citizen, were killed. Another later died of his wounds. This week's agreement with Israel will now lead to an exchange of ambassadors, a revival of economic ties and new energy deals. The same day that deal was announced, Erdogan sent a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin expressing regret over an incident seven months ago where Turkey shot down a Russian jet on a mission in Syria, triggering a slew of Russian sanctions that have dealt a blow to the Turkish economy. In a sign of warming ties, the two leaders talked by phone Wednesday and agreed to meet face-to-face during a G-20 summit in China. In the Syrian conflict, Turkey has been accused of supporting Jihadist groups in a bid to bring about Syrian President Bashar Assad's ouster, a move critics say helped exacerbate the civil war and cause the refugee crisis. Turkey, which has taken in some 3 million Syrian refugees, strongly rejects the accusation. Turkey also has turbulent relations with the European Union over the implementation of a deal to stem the flow of migrants and is frustrated with the United States over its support of a Syrian Kurdish militia. The latter plays a key role in the U.S. fight against IS in Syria, but Turkey considers it a terror organization because of its affiliation with Turkey's Kurdish rebels. Svante Cornell, Director of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute and Silk Road Studies Program, said the airport attack is an indication of how difficult it will be for Turkey to clean up years of foreign policy failures. "Turkey inserted itself in the affairs of the Middle East, threw its support behind non-governmental armed groups, taking sides in various conflicts without seriously considering the consequences," Cornell said. "If you use these kinds of groups they have a tendency to turn back and bite and Turkey is now paying the price for its decisions." Turkey's Prime Minister Binali Yildirim addresses lawmakers at the parliament a day after he announced the details of an agreement reached with Israel, in Ankara, Turkey, Tuesday, June 28, 2016. Israel and Turkey struck a broad reconciliation pact Monday that will restore full diplomatic relations after six years of animosity between the once-close Mideast powers. .(AP Photo) Japanese visitor gets bag full of cash back from Bangkok cab BANGKOK (AP) A Bangkok taxi driver says he didn't know what was in the green backpack a Japanese customer left behind in the trunk of his cab, but he knew what he had to do hand it over to police. When he did, Thanakrit Hengniran learned that inside were 16 fancy T-shirts, a Macintosh computer and 800,000 yen ($7,800) in cash. Thanakrit, 40, said he had no regrets about handing over the bag to the Tourist Police, who returned it Thursday to its owner, 29-year-old Keishi Kobayashi, who is in the garment business. "I'm happy that he's OK and didn't lose anything, that it made him feel good about Thailand and Thai people," said Thanakrit. "We have discipline, just like the people in his own country." For his good deed, Thanakrit received a 5,000 baht ($140) reward from Kobayashi, who lost the backpack on June 24. Already scrambling to make ends meet, Bangkok taxi drivers are facing increasing competition from motorbikes and services such as Uber. However, good Samaritan stories involving taxi drivers are not unusual, said Deputy Superintendent Pramote Chanboonkaew of Bangkok's Bukkalo Police Station, where cabbie, customer and backpack were reunited. 3rd driver in a week slams into Boston-area work zone RAYNHAM, Mass. (AP) For the third time in less than a week, a driver suspected of being drunk has slammed into a highway work zone in the Boston area. No one was hurt in the crash Thursday morning on Route 24 in Raynham. Massachusetts State Police say a Brockton woman's Jeep struck a Bristol County sheriff's office van providing a safety detail. The woman was charged with operating under the influence of liquor and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. On Tuesday, a highway worker was killed after he was hit on Interstate 93 in Medford. The driver was charged with vehicular homicide and operating under the influence. UN's Yemen envoy says more than 700 prisoners released KUWAIT CITY (AP) Yemen's warring sides have freed a total of more than 700 prisoners, including more than 50 children, since the start of the peace talks a little more than two months ago, the U.N. special envoy for Yemen said Thursday. The release is an apparent good-will gesture amid peace talks underway in Kuwait. The U.N. envoy, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, did not say where and when the Yemeni captives were released or give a breakdown of prisoners freed by each side. The peace talks are being suspended for the next two weeks, to allow the sides return to Yemen to consult their leadership. The parties will reconvene on July 15 in Kuwait, the envoy said. A boy carries food supplies provided by a local charity to conflict-affected Yemenis in Sanaa, Yemen, Monday, June 27, 2016. (AP Photo/Hani Mohammed) Yemen's war, which has killed an estimated 9,000 people, pits Shiite rebels known as Houthis against the government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, backed by a Saudi-led coalition of Arab states. Negotiators have said the suspension comes after weeks of deadlock in the talks. The internationally recognized government of Yemen has demanded the implementation of a U.N. Security Council resolution calling on the Houthis to withdraw from all towns and cities, including the capital, Sanaa, which they have overrun and surrender their heavy weapons. The Houthis want to form a unity government prior to any changes on the ground, according to the negotiators. Though a truce went into effect a week before the talks began, the two sides have repeatedly accused each other of breaking it. Speaking to reporters in Kuwait, the U.N. envoy said Thursday that a "de-escalation and coordination committee" made up of members of both sides of the conflict would be based out of Saudi Arabia's southern Asir region to monitor the cease-fire. An elderly woman carries food supplies provided by a local charity to conflict-affected Yemenis in Sanaa, Yemen, Monday, June 27, 2016. (AP Photo/Hani Mohammed) Homeland Security head: US will meet Syrian refugees goal WASHINGTON (AP) Homeland Security Secretary Jeh (jay) Johnson says he believes the government will meet its goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees this year. Johnson tells the Senate Judiciary Committee that approximately 5,000 refugees have been approved for settlement, and an additional 5,000 to 6,000 have been conditionally approved, pending security checks. The Obama administration decided last year to sharply increase the number of Syrian refugees taken into the United States. That decision was hotly opposed by congressional Republicans who warned that it could let terrorists into the country. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson is sworn in on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, June 30, 2016, prior to testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee for an oversight hearing on his cabinet agency. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) The House passed legislation in the wake of the Paris attacks last fall to increase screening of Syrian refugees, but the Senate didn't follow suit. Syria's civil war has produced a refugee crisis. OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Neil Harris is not giving up his battle to claim ownership of the portion of Ocean Springs' East Beach across from his home. Early this month, Chancellor Hollis McGehee ruled that all of East Beach belongs to the public and not to Harris and his neighbor, Clyde "Buddy" Gunn. McGehee entered the formal final judgment on June 10. Six days later, however, Harris -- through his attorney, David Harris Jr. -- filed a motion for McGehee to recuse himself from the case and all of his previous rulings be set aside. Harris Jr. practices in the law firm in which Gunn is a partner. In court documents obtained by The Mississippi Press, Harris cites "newly discovered evidence" which could call McGehee's impartiality into question, including the fact that McGehee resides in the City of Ocean Springs -- one of the plaintiff's in the beach ownership case, along with Jackson County and the State of Mississippi (through the Secretary of State's office). In addition, Harris' motion cites a petition for divorce filed by McGehee and his wife, Carolyn, on June 15, 2016, as further evidence that McGehee should be recused. The motion says Neil Harris, in his role as a Jackson County Chancery Court Judge, has been assigned to hear the McGehee's divorce case. "Under these circumstances," the motion reads. "A reasonable person knowing all the circumstances could question Judge McGehee's impartiality, and these circumstances create an appearance of impropriety. Judge McGehee should immediately recuse from this matter." A response filed by attorneys on behalf of Ocean Springs, the county and state calls Harris' claims "nonsense," that the motion is frivolous and groundless" and was "filed only because of dissatisfaction with Special Judge McGehee's rulings." The response outlines several issues with the motion for recusal: -- The motion failed to meet the 30-day deadline for a motion to recuse as set forth in state law. McGehee was appointed to hear the beach ownership case by the Mississippi Supreme Court in June 2015. Only in the event Harris could prove and and his attorney could not have "reasonably known" of McGehee's Ocean Springs residence could that 30-day window be extended. The response includes copies of emails from Nov. 12, 2015, which McGehee sent to attorneys for all parties and lists his Ocean Springs address. "If either counsel has documents too large to mail in the time frame available," McGehee wrote in one of the emails, "you may leave them on the front porch of my residence at 2207 Government St., #14, Ocean Springs, MS 39564." Among other documents included in the response is a letter from Harris Jr., also dated Nov. 12, 2015, in which he informs McGehee that he has sent a Federal Express package containing court documents to: Honorable Hollis McGehee 2207 Government St., #14 Ocean Springs, MS 39564 Also, during a pretrial conference on April 18, 2016 -- three-weeks prior to the trial -- counsel for all parties set up a personal inspection of the East Beach property. McGehee said at the time that "he could go by and inspect the Plaintiff's property at any time since he lives in Ocean Springs. "In short, Plaintiffs' claim that they first learned of Special Judge McGehee's residence in Ocean Springs, Mississippi in June 2016 is simply false." Attorneys for the city, county and state also note that the argument that McGehee residing in Ocean Springs would compromise his impartiality is "ridiculous." "Special Judge McGehee is also a resident of the State of Mississippi, which is a defendant herin. To take Plaintiffs' argument to its logical conclusion, no judge in Mississippi would be qualified to hear this matter." As to the argument that Harris being assigned to the McGehee's divorce case, the response notes that the case shouldn't have been to assigned to Harris in the first place, as it is contrary local court rules. The McGehee's have filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. According to the rules for the 16th Chancery Court District, cases where irreconcilable differences are cited are "exempt from initial assignment to an active Chancellor." Further, Harris withdrew himself from the McGehee's divorce case on June 16 -- the same day his motion for McGehee to recuse himself was filed, thus eliminating "any possible or potential issue created by the assignment of Juge McGehee's divorce case to Judge Harris." Trey Jones, another attorney representing the three government entities, wrote a letter, also obtained by The Mississippi Press, to Harris Jr., requesting that the motion for recusal be withdrawn. "To wait until after you've lost a trial and to then make these types of groundless and false claims to argue that a good and fair judge should recuse himself is absolutely outrageous," Jones wrote. "Then to attach Judge McGehee's personal divorce papers to try to support this baseless motion? I can only imagine this is a matter that he would rather not have advertised unnecessarily. Your motion also suggests that perhaps you or (I certainly hope not) Judge Harris may have been communicating ex parte with the court administrator about this matter? "It is hard to put into words the utter lack of principle reflected in this paper," Jones wrote, adding that they would "seek every available sanction possible" if the motion is not withdrawn. Harris Jr. wrote a response to Jones, saying the motion would not be withdrawn and taking issue with the claim that all parties knew McGehee was a resident of Ocean Springs. "Certainly, all parties were aware that Judge McGehee was living in Ocean Springs during the pendency of these proceedings," Harris Jr. wrote. "However, living in a location and declaring that location as your legal residence are two separate things." Harris Jr. also noted that under Mississippi the law the test for recusal is whether a a reasonable persons, given the totality of the evidence, might question a judge's impartiality and goes on to discuss the potential conflict of Harris hearing the McGehee's divorce case. The email was sent June 16 -- the same day Harris recused himself from the McGehee's divorce and the same day the motion for McGehee's recusal was filed. With both the motion and response filed, it will be up to McGehee to rule on the motion. Should he rule not to recuse himself, Harris and his attorneys can appeal to the Supreme Court. If that happens, it will mark the third time the state's High Court has heard arguments relative to the East Beach ownership dispute. Obama admin changing coal royalty program to boost revenue WASHINGTON (AP) The Interior Department said Thursday it is changing the way it values coal mined from public lands in the West to make sure mining companies are not shortchanging taxpayers on sales to Asia and other markets. A final rule issued Thursday comes after coal exports surged in recent years amid a weak U.S. market. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell said the updated rule will ensure that taxpayers receive "every dollar due" from coal leases on federal lands, a billion-dollar-a-year program that accounts for more than 40 percent of U.S. coal production. FILE - In this Dec. 9, 2015 file photo, Interior Sally Jewell testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington. The Interior Department is changing the way it values coal mined from public lands in the West to make sure mining companies are not shortchanging taxpayers on sales to Asia and other markets. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File) "These improvements were long overdue and urgently needed to better align our regulatory framework with a 21st century energy marketplace," Jewell said.' Under rules in place since the 1980s, companies can sell the fuel to affiliates and pay royalties to the government on that price, then turn around and sell the coal at higher prices, often overseas. Under a rule set to take effect Jan. 1, the royalty rate will be determined at the time the coal is leased, and revenue will be based on the price paid by an outside entity, rather than an interim sale to an affiliated company. Lawmakers and watchdog groups have complained for years that taxpayers were losing hundreds of millions of dollars annually because royalties are improperly calculated. The change in the way royalties are calculated comes as the Obama administration has launched a wide-ranging review of the federal coal-leasing program, including a three-year halt on new coal leases on federal lands. Officials also are determining if longstanding royalty rates charged to mining companies are too low and reviewing how coal production on federal land contributes to climate change. Critics say the lease moratorium and other changes are part of a broader effort to dismantle the coal industry at the expense of thousands of mining jobs in Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, Utah and other states with large, public coal reserves. The National Mining Association said the Obama administration is collaborating with "extreme environmental interests" as it works "overtime to advance more job-crushing and market-distorting policies." Coal is the largest source of electricity generation in the United States, and coal mined from federal lands accounts for about 44 percent of that total. Production of about 450 million tons a year brings in more than $1 billion in annual revenue, a figure watchdog groups say is artificially low due to a notoriously uncompetitive bidding process. A Government Accountability Office study found that almost 90 percent of the 107 coal tracts leased since 1990 received just a single bid. A White House report last week said a sharp increase in royalties paid by companies extracting U.S.-owned coal would trigger only modest mining reductions. The report from the White House Council of Economic Advisers said that doubling the royalty rate on each ton of coal extracted would reduce mining from federal lands by just 7 percent, while bringing in as much as $730 million a year in new revenue. Coal miners and their supporters have lined up at meetings in Montana, Wyoming and other states to protest the moratorium. They say it would be a major blow to an industry already reeling from widespread bankruptcies, pollution regulations and competition from other fuels such as natural gas. ___ Child porn found on phone of man who filmed fight with cop CLINTON, Conn. (AP) Connecticut police looking at cellphone video taken by a man who said he recorded an officer assaulting him say it actually shows him assaulting the officer. They say he also had child pornography on the phone. WFSB-TV reports (http://bit.ly/29tkE5V) Clinton police announced Thursday they've charged 19-year-old Austin Haughwout (HOW'-it) with assault as well as enticing, inducing and/or coercing a minor with a computer, possession of child pornography and other charges. Police said Haughwout accused an officer of excessive force during his arrest on an unrelated warrant last July. Haughwout recorded the altercation on his cellphone. But police examining the phone say the video shows Haughwout assaulted the officer. They also found obscene images of children and sexual conversations with kids. Haughwout and his lawyer didn't immediately return messages Thursday. ___ Lebanon judge indicts 3 over Australian kids' abduction BEIRUT (AP) Lebanon's state-run news agency says a judge has indicted three people in the case of a botched attempt to kidnap two Australian-Lebanese children caught up in a custody battle earlier this year. Judge Rami Amin charged Sally Faulkner, the children's Australian mother, and two British men with forceful kidnapping, a charge punishably by up to 15 years imprisonment. Faulkner and an Australian TV crew were detained and charged over the attempt to seize the children from their Lebanese father in April. They were released on bail later the same month and have since returned to Australia. Adam Whittington, a British-Australian, and a British colleague remain in custody. 'If I can get that coin back, I can forgive anything,' But worst of all, he took a special coin she received from President Obama A robber attacked the nation's oldest full-time park ranger in her San Francisco Bay Area home this week and made off with a coin she received from President Obama, authorities said. Betty Reid Soskin, 94, who works as an interpretive ranger at the Rosie the Riveter World War II Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, California, was awoken by an intruder who punched her several times in the face, police Lt. Felix Tan said. She reached for her cellphone but he grabbed it from her, dragged her out of the bedroom and beat her again, Richmond police said. She was able to crawl away to the bathroom and locked herself inside until the robber left early Monday. Betty Reid Soskin, a community outreach worker at the Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historic Park, was beaten and robbed in her Bay Area home Monday. She is pictured above in 2007 The robber punched Soskin repeatedly in the face, splitting her lip and bruising her. She managed to flee into the bathroom 'I fully expected he was going to kill me,' Soskin said of the robber. She is pictured above at her workplace in 2013 'I fully expected he was going to kill me,' Soskin told Bay Area news station KTVU-TV. 'He doubled up his fist and hit me a couple of times on the sides of my face with all his might.' She called the encounter terrifying and said the blows bruised her face and split open her lips. 'Nothing else I could think of was to scream and scream and scream,' Soskin told the TV station. While in the bathroom, Soskin said, she grabbed an iron and 'set it to linen, which is the hottest.' 'I figured if he would come in I would brand him and that would mark him for the police.' Police say the thief stole her cellphone, iPad, laptop, camera, jewelry and the coin the president gave her to honor her achievements. She said most items she can live without, but the coin is special to her. 'If I can get that coin back, I think I can forgive anything,' she said After a life in public service, Soskin became a park ranger about 10 years ago and leads tours at the historical California park and museum honoring the women who worked in factories during wartime Soskin introduced president Barack Obama at the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at the White House last December Soskin introduced him at the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at the White House last December. She said most items she can live without, but the coin is special to her. 'If I can get that coin back, I think I can forgive anything,' she told KTVU. After a life in public service, Soskin became a park ranger about 10 years ago and leads tours at the historical California park and museum honoring the women who worked in factories during wartime. Before her appearance at the tree-lighting ceremony, Soskin made headlines in 2013 when she complained about a government shutdown, saying she didn't have time to waste sitting at home at her age. UK Labour leader criticized for Israel, Islamic State remark LONDON (AP) Embattled Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has been harshly criticized for comments made Thursday during the release of an independent inquiry into anti-Semitism in the party ranks. The U.K.'s main opposition party leader said Thursday that "Our Jewish friends are no more responsible for the actions of Israel or the (Benjamin) Netanyahu government than our Muslim friends are for those of various self-styled Islamic states or organizations." The party leader later denied he was comparing the state of Israel to the Islamic State extremists. Britain's Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn delivers a speech on Labour's anti-Semitism inquiry findings at Savoy Place, London Thursday June 30, 2016. The opposition Labour Party is in disarray, with leader Jeremy Corbyn facing intense pressure to resign after losing a confidence vote. He has lost the support of the party's lawmakers but claims the rank and file still back him. (Jonathan Brady/PA via AP) UK Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis called the comments "offensive" and counterproductive. "The comments by the leader of the Labour Party at the launch, however they were intended, are themselves offensive, and rather than rebuilding trust among the Jewish community, are likely to cause even greater concern," said Mirvis. Corbyn had set up the independent inquiry after several party members were suspended for making anti-Semitic comments before Britain's general election in May. The inquiry carried out by former Liberty director Shami Chakrabarti found that the Labour Party "is not overrun by anti-Semitism, Islamophobia or other forms of racism." It did find "an occasionally toxic atmosphere is in danger of shutting down free speech within the party" and called on Labour Party members to refrain from using Nazi imagery and metaphors when discussing current events in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. She also said there's no place in the Labour Party for denying or minimizing the impact of the Holocaust. Corbyn's reaction seemed to generate more controversy, however. Labour Party lawmaker Ruth Smeeth said the party "cannot be a safe space" for British Jews after Corbyn did nothing while she was verbally abused with anti-Semitic slurs by one of his supporters at the event. "I call on Jeremy Corbyn to resign immediately and make way for someone with the backbone to confront racism and anti-Semitism in our party and in the country," she said. Corbyn already faces strong pressure to step down as party leader after losing a no confidence vote earlier this week and being on the losing side of Britain's referendum on EU membership. Britain's Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn smiles as he leaves his home in north London, Thursday June 30, 2016. The opposition Labour Party is in disarray, with leader Jeremy Corbyn facing intense pressure to resign after losing a confidence vote. He has lost the support of the party's lawmakers but claims the rank and file still back him. (Lauren Hurley/PA via AP) The Latest: 2 counties added to Florida's emergency zone STUART, Fla. (AP) The Latest on an algae bloom that prompted Florida's governor to declare a state of emergency (all times local): 6:40 p.m. Florida's governor has added two more counties to the state of emergency declared over an algae bloom on the Atlantic coast. A dead walking catfish lays on the shore with algae along Sewell's Point on the St. Lucie River under an Ocean Boulevard bridge on Monday, June 27, 2016. The Martin County Commission decided at an emergency meeting Tuesday to ask state and federal authorities to declare a disaster where blue-green algae has closed beaches. County officials on Florida's Atlantic coast want the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to close the locks between Lake Okeechobee and the St. Lucie River. (Richard Graulich/The Palm Beach Post via AP) Gov. Rick Scott signed the amended executive order Thursday, adding Lee and Palm Beach counties to Wednesday's emergency declaration for Martin and St. Lucie counties. Palm Beach County is directly south of the existing emergency area, while Lee County is on Florida's Gulf coast. Multiple Florida lawmakers have asked federal authorities that oversee Lake Okeechobee to immediately stop freshwater releases that coastal communities blame for algae blooms and other environmental damage. ___ 4 p.m. As a noxious algae bloom fouls beaches on Florida's Atlantic coast, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says it will reduce the flow of water from Lake Okeechobee that many blame for fueling the problem. The Corps said in a news release Thursday that its Jacksonville District will begin the reductions Friday, targeting the Caloosahatchee Estuary and the St. Lucie Estuary. The action comes after Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency over the problem, and as politicians and residents are blaming the federal government. Multiple Florida lawmakers have asked federal authorities that oversee Lake Okeechobee to immediately stop freshwater releases that coastal communities blame for algae blooms and other environmental damage. ___ 11:50 a.m. Lawmakers say a southwest Florida county should be added to the state of emergency declared over an algae bloom on the Atlantic coast. Gov. Rick Scott directed state and local authorities to fast-track water storage projects to help reduce the algae's spread in waterways in Martin and St. Lucie counties. Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto of Fort Myers and Reps. Matt Caldwell of North Fort Myers and Ray Rodrigues of Estero issued a joint statement Thursday asking Scott to include Lee County as well. The three Republicans say Scott's declaration draws attention to water quality issues also affecting the Caloosahatchee River. The lawmakers also have asked federal authorities that oversee Lake Okeechobee to immediately stop freshwater releases that coastal communities blame for algae blooms and other environmental damage. ___ 7:40 a.m. Officials want federal action along a stretch of Florida's Atlantic coast where the governor has declared a state of emergency over algae blooms. In a statement Wednesday, the Martin County Commission said it's inviting the president to view deteriorating water conditions that local officials blame on freshwater being released from Lake Okeechobee. Gov. Rick Scott has directed state and local authorities to fast-track water storage projects that would help reduce the algae's spread along the St. Lucie River and other waterways in Martin and St. Lucie counties. He has criticized the Obama Administration and the U.S. Army Corps for pumping water east and west of the lake. That relieves pressure on the lake's aging dike, but local officials say it's ruining coastal estuaries. Both of Florida's senators plan to visit the area this week. Water full of algae laps along the Sewell's Point shore on the St. Lucie River under an Ocean Boulevard bridge, Monday, June 27, 2016. The Martin County Commission decided at an emergency meeting Tuesday to ask state and federal authorities to declare a disaster where blue-green algae has closed beaches. County officials on Florida's Atlantic coast want the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to close the locks between Lake Okeechobee and the St. Lucie River. (Richard Graulich/The Palm Beach Post via AP) An aerial photo shows blue-green algae enveloping an area along the St. Lucie River in Stuart, Fla.,Wednesday, June 29, 2016 Officials want federal action along the stretch of Florida's Atlantic coast where the governor has declared a state of emergency over algae blooms. The Martin County Commission is inviting the president to view deteriorating water conditions that local officials blame on freshwater being released from the lake, according to a statement released Wednesday. (Greg Lovett/The Palm Beach Post via AP) SUPREME COURT NOTEBOOK: Thomas' dissents rise in nixed cases WASHINGTON (AP) One measure of Supreme Court justices' rising frustration is the number of times they can't recruit three colleagues to hear a case, then feel compelled to tell the world about it. Justice Clarence Thomas did so nine times this past term, or about as often as he did in the four previous years combined. Most appeals are denied with no objection noted. Thomas' dissents generally came when he could not persuade enough of the other conservatives on the court to hear cases about guns, religious rights or campaign finance restrictions. Justice Samuel Alito was second with six noted dissents. FILE - In this Jan. 26, 2012 file photo, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas speaks at College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass. One measure of Supreme Court justices' rising frustration is the number of times they can't recruit three colleagues to hear a case, then feel compelled to tell the world about it. Thomas did so nine times this past term, or about as often as he did in the four previous years combined. Most appeals are denied with no objection noted. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File) It was an especially trying term for conservatives after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia in February. "First Amendment rights are all too often sacrificed for the sake of transparency in federal and state elections," Thomas wrote on Tuesday, when the court refused to hear a conservative group's challenge to disclosure requirements in a Delaware campaign finance law. Alito wrote the same day to describe as "ominous" the court's rejection of an appeal from Washington state pharmacists who hold religious objections to dispensing emergency contraception. Thomas and Chief Justice John Roberts joined the dissent, but they evidently could not win the vote of Justice Anthony Kennedy. It takes four votes to hear an appeal and five to decide a case, even now, when there are only eight justices since Scalia's death. ___ Thomas' supporters this week reflected on his time on the court in advance of the 25th anniversary of his nomination by President George H.W. Bush on July 1, 1991. Bush tapped Thomas, the second African-American on the court, to replace Thurgood Marshall, the first black justice. C. Boyden Gray, Bush's White House counsel, said the president was so enamored of Thomas that he almost nominated him earlier, when Justice William Brennan retired in 1990. Bush's legal team knew a second high court opening was possible because of Marshall's failing health, Gray said. One reason Bush considered Thomas for Brennan's seat was that he "didn't want to have a black replacing a black," Gray said during a telephone conference sponsored by the Federalist Society. Instead, Bush chose David Souter because Gray and others thought Thomas, in his early 40s and newly confirmed as an appellate judge, needed more experience on the bench. Thomas' nomination, contentious from the start, was nearly derailed by accusations from former colleague Anita Hill that he sexually harassed her. Thomas adamantly denied Hill's claims, which sparked a national debate about sexual harassment on the job. He called the nationally televised hearings a "high-tech lynching." Former law clerk Gregory Katsas said Thomas has never been afraid to speak out or go his own way. "Justice Thomas has the courage of his convictions and he has this incredible sense of duty to the country and to himself and to his oath to get cases right even if that means bucking his colleagues and bucking conventional opinion," Katsas said. Another former clerk, Carrie Severino, discounted talk that Thomas would soon retire, either with President Barack Obama still in office or during a Hillary Clinton presidency, if she is elected. Allowing either Democrat to name his successor "would be admitting defeat, and he's not about to do that," Severino said. ___ Thomas is one of three justices traveling to the Europe this summer to teach or speak in desirable surroundings. He will be on the French Riviera, in Nice, as part of the San Diego-based Thomas Jefferson School of Law summer program. Scalia had been scheduled to teach a constitutional law class and Thomas stepped in after his friend's death. Alito also will be in France at Tulane Law School's summer abroad program in Paris. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg heads to Venice where she will preside over a mock trial drawn from William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice." The trial is part of a commemoration of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death and the 500th anniversary of the formation of the Jewish ghetto in Venice. Cinemark attorneys want victims to pay $700K in legal fees CENTENNIAL, Colo. (AP) Attorneys for Cinemark want victims of a 2012 shooting at a Colorado movie theater to pay nearly $700,000 in legal fees after they unsuccessfully sued the theater chain. The company's lawyers told a judge they need the money to cover the costs of preserving evidence, retrieving and copying records, travel and other expenses, according to court documents filed this month. A judge didn't immediately rule on the request. But Colorado courts allow the winning side of a court case to recover legal fees. Jurors in May ruled in Cinemark's favor over 28 victims and their families who argued the nation's third-largest theater chain should have done more to prevent the attack that killed 12 people and left more than 70 others injured. They sued in state court, saying security lapses allowed for the July 20, 2012 attack at a midnight premiere of a Batman film. A judge last week dismissed a similar lawsuit in federal court, saying Cinemark's lack of security was not a substantial factor in the deaths. In both lawsuits, victims cited a lack of guards and no alarm on an emergency exit door that would have sounded when James Holmes slipped into the crowded theater and started shooting. Cinemark argued it could not have foreseen the attack, and nothing could have stopped the heavily armed Holmes. Lawyers for the plaintiffs in the state case have said they are considering appealing the verdict. Lawmakers consider boosting funds to defend LGBT rights law RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) North Carolina lawmakers took steps Thursday to set aside a half-million dollars for the legal defense of a law limiting protections for LGBT people as a judge sought to streamline a cluster of lawsuits it has inspired. Republican lawmakers were mapping out the end of the session, including possible changes to the law known as House Bill 2, which has attracted high-profile critics including the NBA. The session could end this weekend. But there was no appetite to change the provision requiring transgender people to use restrooms corresponding to the sex on their birth certificate in schools, universities and many other public buildings. The law also excludes sexual orientation and gender identity from statewide anti-discrimination protections. Pressure to change the law has come from several quarters including NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who said earlier this month that there needed to be progress on changing the law this summer to ensure the league keeps its 2017 All-Star Game in Charlotte. The league issued a joint statement late Thursday with the Charlotte Hornets saying they were doubtful that proposed changes would go far enough. "We have been engaged in dialogue with numerous groups at the city and state levels, but we do not endorse the version of the bill that we understand is currently before the legislature," the statement said. Legislative leaders were weighing possible adjustments, while trying to determine whether there's enough support to get the legislation to Gov. Pat McCrory's desk. McCrory has urged lawmakers to repeal a provision preventing workers from using state law to sue over workplace discrimination. "The governor has been public in what he has asked us to look at," House Speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, said Thursday. "We are reviewing those matters and it's just still in discussion." Moore confirmed other changes are being considered but he declined to elaborate. The Senate also approved a plan to give McCrory's office $500,000 to defend the law in court, by transferring money from a disaster relief fund. The measure still must pass the House. Entertainers including Bruce Springsteen canceled concerts to protest the law, while scores of business leaders signed a letter seeking its repeal. Rallies to support the law, meanwhile, drew thousands of conservatives to Raleigh. Other legislators have said possible changes include increasing criminal penalties for people who commit sexual assaults in bathrooms and locker rooms. There also could be dispensations for transgender people who have undergone sex reassignment surgery but were born in the few states where the sex on a birth certificate can't be changed. Gay rights advocates held a news conference to say nothing short of the law's repeal would suffice. "There is only one fix for H.B. 2, and it's full and total repeal," said Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin. "If they choose not to and Gov. McCrory and his political cronies run out the clock on this short session, they won't be able to outrun the voters of this state in November." McCrory discussed the law privately with Democratic legislators at the Executive Mansion. Sen. Floyd McKissick, D-Durham, described the discussion as candid. But he said Democrats remained concerned that proposed changes don't fix fundamental problems with the law. A spokesman for McCrory's re-election campaign, Ricky Diaz, later said in an email: "Any Democrat standing with the Human Rights Campaign and other out-of-state liberal interest groups by refusing any compromise is attempting to drive the NBA All-Star Game from North Carolina." Transgender residents and the U.S. Department of Justice have challenged the law in court, while McCrory, legislative leaders and a citizen group filed lawsuits to defend it. Legislative leaders will have their own legal expenses after filing a lawsuit separate from the governor's. Federal Judge Louise Wood Flanagan, who was overseeing lawsuits by the legislative leaders and citizens' group, on Wednesday ordered that they be sent to another federal court hearing separate challenges to the law. Her move increased the likelihood that at least four of the five cases will end up before one judge. It also denied efforts to consolidate the two cases with the lawsuit filed by McCrory before a different judge. Canada task force to study marijuana legalization TORONTO (AP) Canada launched a task force Thursday to study the regulation of recreational marijuana ahead of a legalization measure the government plans to send to parliament in the Spring of 2017. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had promised to legalize the drug during his 2015 campaign. Canada's Minister of Justice Jody Wilson-Raybould said that the task force will help devise a system regulating marijuana production, distribution and sales. Anne McLellan, who will chair the task force, said they will be consulting with provincial and municipal governments, as well as with U.S. states like Colorado and Washington, where recreational marijuana is legal. McLellan said there's been a deeper understanding of the marijuana landscape over the past decade. "I think so many people have come to the conclusion, for so many reasons, that the current situation is not working and we need a better way forward," she said. "I have, myself, concluded that legalization with a regulatory regime, such as the task force will be exploring, is the way forward." The task force is made up of experts in public health, substance abuse, law enforcement and justice. The panel, whose recommendations will be made public, will have to report back to the government by November before legislation is introduced in 2017. The government will also hold an online public consultation that will be open until the end of August. The legislation will need to be voted on in Canada's House of Commons, but since the current ruling Liberals hold a majority of seats, the bill is expected to pass. While it's still unclear what restrictions will be imposed on marijuana growers, Bill Blair, the parliamentary secretary to the justice minister, said the government had a responsibility to put in place legislation "to control the production, distribution and the consumption" of pot, especially to keep it out of the hands of children and criminals. ___ On the Web: Chris Epps Former Mississippi Corrections Commissioner Chris Epps, center, and his attorneys, walk to the federal courthouse for a hearing in Jackson, Miss., Thursday, June 9, 2016. The hearing is on evidence of how much the bribes taken by Epps cost Mississippi's taxpayers. That determination, in turn, will influence how long Epps spends in prison for money laundering and filing false tax returns related to $1.4 million in bribes prosecutors say he took. (Rogelio V. Solis/The Associated Press) JACKSON, Mississippi -- As many as 11 more people may face criminal charges stemming from a Mississippi prison contract bribery scheme, a federal prosecutor said Wednesday. Assistant U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca told U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate during a hearing that prosecutors plan to announce the charges by mid-July. The hearing concerned evidence relating to the sentencing of former Corrections Commissioner Christopher Epps and Brandon businessman Cecil McCrory. The prosecutor also said inquiries reach beyond prison-related corruption and stretch outside Mississippi. "We're getting farther away from the trunk of the tree to the branches, but it all began with Mr. Epps, with the trunk," he said. LaMarca estimated that the net benefit to companies as a result of Epps' corrupt actions, after some costs were subtracted, was more than $65 million. He said 10 more people could face federal charges, while one could face state charges. LaMarca said investigators have determined that Epps demanded money to exercise his influence not only at the state level, but among county supervisors. Because Epps controlled where state inmates were housed, that gave him influence over local jails as well, LaMarca said. "Through his position, he was able to wield a great deal of influence, for which Mr. Epps wanted to be compensated above his salary," he said. Epps and McCrory pleaded guilty in February 2015. Epps faces up to 23 years on charges of money laundering and filing false tax returns related to $1.47 million in bribes prosecutors say he took. He's forfeiting $1.7 million in assets. McCrory, a former state House member, pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering conspiracy and faces a 20-year sentence. He agreed to forfeit $1.7 million in assets. In addition to McCrory, former prison phone consultant Sam Waggoner and Harrison County political operative Robert Simmons have pleaded guilty to bribing Epps in return for contracts. Former state Rep. Irb Benjamin of Madison is charged with bribing Epps for contracts at prison work centers and county jails. Benjamin's July 5 trial is likely to be delayed. Epps' sentencing could be delayed again past the current July 18 date by prosecutors' efforts to increase the recommended length of his prison sentence. If the court sentences Epps based on the prosecutors' $65 million estimate, federal sentencing guidelines would recommend a maximum of 23 years. However, defense lawyer John Colette continued Wednesday to ask Wingate to instead sentence Epps based on the bribes he collected. Lawyers said Wednesday that if the $1.47 million amount is used, Epps faces a recommended sentence between 14 and 17 1/2 years. Wingate doesn't have to accept either recommendation, and prosecutors have agreed to recommend less prison time for Epps because of his cooperation. Calculating benefit requires examining financial statements of 16 contractors. Colette said he received more than 1,500 pages of documents in the last week and needs at least 30 days to review them. Four companies are asking Wingate to shield their information from public view, while four others haven't responded to subpoenas. Wingate said he would hold a hearing in the next 10 days to consider requests for protective orders, and to consider ordering companies that haven't responded to show why Wingate shouldn't hold them in contempt. Wingate said he'd wait until the show-cause hearing to decide on whether he'll again delay sentencing. The Latest: Indiana governor disappointed by abortion ruling INDIANAPOLIS (AP) The Latest on a judge blocking Indiana's law banning abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormalities (all times local): 4:30 p.m. Republican Indiana Gov. Mike Pence's office says he is disappointed with a federal judge's decision to block a state law banning abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormalities. FILE - In this April 9, 2016, file photo, hundreds of abortion rights supporters gather at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis to protest an anti-abortion law signed by Gov. Mike Pence, that is among the most restrictive in the U.S. U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt has said she will issue a ruling before Friday, July 1, when the law adopted this year by the GOP-dominated Legislature is set to take effect. (Mykal McEldowney/The Indianapolis Star via AP, File) Pence spokeswoman Kara Brooks said Thursday that the governor "remains steadfast in his support for the unborn, especially those with disabilities." She says Pence believes citizens should be allowed "to determine appropriate medical safety standards and procedures through their elected representatives." A federal judge ruled a day before the law was to take effect that the state doesn't have the authority to limit a woman's reasons for ending a pregnancy. The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana sued the state on behalf of Planned Parenthood. ACLU attorney Ken Falk says he's confident the law will be found unconstitutional if the state continues its fight in court. __ 3:15 p.m. Indiana state Senate President David Long says he finds one part of the ruling that blocked a law banning abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormality "deeply troubling." The lawsuit challenged the law's provision requiring that aborted fetuses be buried or cremated. Planned Parenthood currently disposes of remains by incineration, as with other medical tissue. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt's Thursday ruling blocks the burial or cremation requirement from taking effect. Long, a Republican, said in a statement that equating "fetal remains with any other common medical waste is deeply troubling" and hopes that the court will change its mind. Pratt ruled a day before the law was to go into effect that the state doesn't have the authority to limit a woman's reasons for ending a pregnancy. Long also said that Indiana's attorney general has said he'll review Pratt's decision to temporarily block the law before saying whether he'll appeal. ___ 3 p.m. Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Pence's opponent in this fall's election says a state law that aimed to prohibit abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormalities was misguided. Democrat John Gregg said Thursday that the law approved by the Republican-dominated Legislature "was always more about Mike Pence's personal ideology than science, medicine or common sense." A federal judge blocked the law from taking effect as scheduled on Friday, saying the state doesn't have the authority to limit a woman's reasons for ending a pregnancy. The governor's office didn't immediately comment on the decision. Pence called the law one that "affirms the value of all human life" when he signed it in March. Pence and Gregg are in a contentious rematch of the 2012 election, which Pence narrowly won. ___ 2:15 p.m. A prominent Indiana anti-abortion group is urging the state to appeal a federal judge's decision to block a state law prohibiting abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormalities. Indiana Right to Life president Mike Fichter called Thursday's ruling "an appalling human rights injustice." U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt says she granted a preliminary injunction sought by Planned Parenthood of Indiana because the state doesn't have the authority to limit a woman's reasons for ending a pregnancy. The executive director of the anti-abortion group America Family Association of Indiana says he wasn't surprised by Pratt's decision. Micah Clark says the state was probably pushing the envelope on limiting abortions, but believed it was protecting unborn children with genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, from discrimination. ___ 1:30 p.m. A federal judge says she decided to block an Indiana law prohibiting abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormalities because the state doesn't have the authority to limit a woman's reasons for ending a pregnancy. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt granted a preliminary injunction Thursday sought by Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky. The decision came a day before the law was to take effect. Pratt said the Indiana law would go against U.S. Supreme Court rulings that states may not prohibit a woman from seeking an abortion before fetal viability. An attorney for Indiana argued before Pratt earlier this month that the state has an interest in "preventing discrimination" against fetuses with genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. ___ 1:10 p.m. A federal judge has blocked a new Indiana law that bans abortions sought because of a fetus' genetic abnormalities. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt released a ruling Thursday that grants the preliminary injunction sought by Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky. The law was to set to take effect Friday. Indiana and North Dakota are the only states with laws banning abortions that are sought due to fetal genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, or because of the race, sex or ancestry of a fetus. It also requires that aborted fetuses be buried or cremated. Senators urge Kerry to address political crisis in Bahrain WASHINGTON (AP) A simmering political crisis in Bahrain could spiral into violence, encourage meddling by Iran and weaken a key U.S. ally in the Persian Gulf, a bipartisan group of senators warned Thursday in a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry. The lawmakers told Kerry they are "deeply alarmed" by the government of Bahrain's suppression of free speech and political dissent. The senators want Kerry to tell them what specific actions the Obama administration is taking to press the government of Bahrain "to return to a path of reform and reconciliation." The tiny island kingdom of Bahrain hosts the Navy's 5th Fleet. In the last few weeks, the senators wrote, Bahrain's Sunni monarchy has "taken a series of troubling steps targeting the country's peaceful opposition, as well as nonviolent human rights defenders and members of civil society." Unless those actions are reversed, they told Kerry, "we fear that tensions in Bahrain could quickly intensify and destabilize an important United States ally." In one example, the senators cited a Bahraini court's decision to more than double a prison term for the secretary-general of the country's largest Shiite opposition group, Al-Wefaq. Bahrain also detained Nabeel Rajab, a prominent activist and the president of the Bahrain Center for Human Rights, on a charge of spreading "false news." Bahrain's government crushed the Arab Spring protests in early 2011 with the help of troops from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Since then, the island has seen low-level unrest, protests and attacks on police. But while the protests five years ago saw the island's Shiite majority and others rise up to demand more political freedom, the current crackdown has seen a growing level of sectarianism. A top general in Shiite-majority Iran has threatened the "destruction of the bloodthirsty regime" in Manama, Bahrain's capital and largest city. The senators said there is risk of the country spiraling into violence and "further exploitation" by Tehran unless Bahrain's government changes course. "Bahrain's failure to address the legitimate grievances of its citizens has strained the country's social fabric and invited outside actors to take advantage of the deteriorating situation," they wrote. State Department spokesman John Kirby said the department was aware of the letter but had not yet received it. Kerry has emphasized to Bahrain's foreign minister that "recent government actions against civil society will only lead to greater instability with potentially grave consequences for not only Bahrain, but also the broader region," Kirby said. A State Department report sent to Congress last week said Bahrain has fallen short in implementing a series of political and human rights reforms recommended by an independent commission after the 2011 uprisings. The report cited progress in several areas but said failures in others diminishes the improvements and minimizes "popular acceptance of newly established government institutions." Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Rep. James McGovern, D-Mass., introduced legislation last year to prohibit the United States from selling Bahrain weapons and crowd control equipment until the State Department certifies that all of the commission's recommendations have been put into action. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., led the letter, which also is signed by Wyden, Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., Robert Casey, D-Pa., Chris Coons, D-Del., and Tim Kaine, D-Va. ___ Associated Press writer Deb Riechmann contributed to this report. ___ OBAMA LEGACY: Immigration stands as most glaring failure WASHINGTON (AP) Hours after the Supreme Court sent his immigration policy into legal limbo, President Barack Obama huddled around a long conference table in the Roosevelt Room with disappointed activists. The president looked out at familiar faces, some teary. It had been a long and tough fight, Obama said, and he had taken some beatings even from supporters who "whupped on me good." He believed his policies would prevail, according to participants in the meeting, but said it was now up to voters and the next president to take up the baton. And with that, Obama delivered his version of a concession speech on a fight that has frustrated him like few others, roiled the campaign to replace him and is certain to test his successor. FILE - In this June 18, 2014 file-pool photo, detainees walk in a line at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection processing facility in Brownsville,Texas. Hours after the Supreme Court sent his immigration policy into legal limbo, President Barack Obama huddled around a long conference table in the Roosevelt Room with disappointed activists. The president looked out at familiar faces, some teary. It had been a long and tough fight, Obama said, and he had taken some beatings, even from supporters who whupped on me good. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, Pool, File) When Obama leaves office in January, immigration overhaul will stand as the most glaring failure in his 7 -year effort to enact a vision of social change. Despite two campaigns full of promises and multiple strategies, Obama imposed only incremental, largely temporary changes on the immigration system. He leaves behind an outdated and overwhelmed system, with some 11 million people living in the U.S. illegally. Behind that failure, Obama's legacy will be judged by a sometimes contradictory mix of policies some aimed at bringing immigrants "out of the shadows," others at removing them from the U.S. He will be remembered for protecting 730,000 young people, a generation of so-called Dreamers, who were brought to the U.S. as children. Advocates and allies will credit him with embracing a newly aggressive assertion of executive power that, despite the court deadlock and political opposition, remains a legal pathway for the next president. And he will go down as a leader who consistently defended the importance of immigrants in American life, as anti-immigrant sentiment swelled up in parts of the U.S. and abroad. "Immigration is not something to fear," Obama said last week. "We don't have to wall ourselves off from those who may not look like us right now or pray like we do, or have a different last name." "What makes us Americans," he proclaimed, "is our shared commitment to an ideal that all of us are created equal, all of us have a chance to make of our lives what we will." But Obama also will be remembered as a president who prioritized other issues, missing perhaps the best chance to pass sweeping legislation and only reluctantly adjusting his strategy in the face of firm opposition. And his administration aggressively enforced current laws, deporting more than 2.4 million people. The total is nearly as many as his two predecessors combined. "His strategy early on was to prove his enforcement bona fides," said Janet Murguia, president of the National Council of La Raza, an immigration advocacy group, who once labeled Obama the "deporter-in-chief." "He was facing an unprecedented, highly personalized opposition from Congress," she said. "We fault him, I believe correctly, for failing to recognize soon enough this intransigence by Congress and failing to use his authority sooner." __ If evaluating Obama's record is a matter of tallying two columns in one, the number of people he protected from removal; in the other, the number deported the Supreme Court went a long way last week toward tipping the ledger toward the latter. With its 4-4 tie, it thwarted Obama's last chance to shield up to 4 million people from deportation. The decision left in place an injunction freezing his 2014 executive action, which expanded his protection of Dreamers and temporarily protected some parents of people with legal status. The deadlock, resulting from a Republican blockade against Obama's Supreme Court nominee, left the constitutionality of the action unsettled. But it had a significant impact on Obama's legacy. "If the Supreme Court had ruled in his favor, he'd probably be remembered as the person who helped to protect half of the undocumented population in the country, which probably would have been a turning point toward reform sooner rather than later," said Frank Sharry, founder of the immigration reform group America's Voice. Instead, he said Obama will be most remembered for his administration's "record number of deportations." The White House rejects a by-the-numbers analysis. Work to modernize the border and bring new order to a chaotic deportation system isn't necessarily conveyed in the calculation, officials argue. The administration overhauled the role of local law enforcement. In 2014, the president declared the administration's limited resources would be focused on removing threats to national security and public safety and recent arrivals. Deportation has decreased since. Last year, the administration deported the fewest people since 2006. "Devising that approach and implementing it has fundamentally changed the way laws are enforced and has had a real impact on communities," said Cecilia Munoz, the president's chief adviser on immigration. "That's a very, very big change. That's a large piece of the legacy." It is a piece of the legacy that remains controversial. Prioritizing recent arrivals inevitably means targeting some of the women and children who have been fleeing violence in Central America. A series of Christmastime raids last year revived complaints about the policy from Democrats and immigrant advocates. The White House has shown no sign of backing down. __ Could Obama have charted a different course on immigration? Entering office during an economic crisis, Obama focused on stimulating growth and reforming the financial sector. Then there was his massive health care legislation. Along the way, he broke a campaign promise to back overhaul legislation on immigration in his first year. It was 2011 before Obama endorsed a set of reform principles. By then, Democrats had lost control of the House and the best window for passing a bill had closed. With Latinos, a key political constituency, restless ahead of his re-election bid, Obama announced his first executive action to shield Dreamers in June 2012. He made a new law a top priority of his second term. Although the Senate passed legislation, the GOP-led House refused to vote on it. "Republicans never gave him credit for the actions that were taken both in terms of security on the border and deportations that did occur," said Sen. Jeff Flake, a Republican from Arizona who backed the Senate bill but opposed Obama's executive actions. "It was a more robust program than Republicans ever gave him credit for. But no good deed goes unpunished in this political environment. The narrative was kind of set and it was furthered by the actions that he took." After claiming he did not have the authority, Obama bowed to intense pressure from advocates and announced a second executive action in November 2014. He'd waited until after midterm elections, concerned he would damage prospects for senators in tough races. Democrats lost the Senate anyway and the move revived Republican charges of unconstitutional overreach. More than two dozen states eventually signed on to a court challenge that froze the program. Still, allies cast Obama's about-turn as a game-changer. Future presidents almost certainly will try to flex similar authority to work around gridlock on Capitol Hill. Hillary Clinton, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has promised to go further than Obama. "He has rewritten the playbook and added several pages to it on what the executive can and should do. There's a lot of room there," said Angela Kelley, an immigration expert at the Center for America Progress. "Is that necessarily the best way? No. But it is legal, and it is smart and strategic." Whether the courts agree will help shape Obama's legacy. Resolution isn't likely until after he leaves office. Clinton would likely pick up where Obama left off in pushing to address the status of the millions of immigrants living in the U.S. illegally. If Republican Donald Trump prevails, Obama's effort could end up as another painful, close-but-not-quite moment. Trump has proposed building a wall along the border with Mexico and barring Muslims from the U.S. "The finish line has been in sight for a very, very long time," said Munoz, a veteran of legislative battles over immigration. "It is only a matter of political will." __ Associated Press reporter Alicia A. Caldwell contributed to this report. Amid crisis, support grows for Puerto Rico statehood SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) Porfirio Guerrero has grown increasingly frustrated as a decade-long recession has sapped business from his tailor shop in the Puerto Rican capital. He now feels the only way for the island to recover is to become a full-fledged part of the United States, a sentiment that is gaining force in the territory. Puerto Ricans have been divided for decades on whether to remain a semi-autonomous commonwealth, push for statehood or break away entirely from the United States. The island's economic crisis including a $70 billion debt and looming default have pushed many like Guerrero toward statehood. "Can't you see the devastation around here?" he says, gesturing at struggling and shuttered shops that make up the once thriving business district of Rio Piedras. "It would depress anyone. We need statehood." In this Monday, June 27, 2016 photo, Porfirio Guerrero poses for a portrait outside his tailor shop in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Puerto Ricans have been divided for decades on whether to remain a semi-autonomous commonwealth, push for statehood or break away entirely from the United States. The islands economic crisis, including a $70 billion debt and looming default, have pushed many like Guerrero toward supporting statehood. (AP Photo/Danica Coto) That feeling has been reinforced by Congress' approval on Wednesday of a measure meant to help the island out of its deep economic malaise. The bill, which President Barack Obama signed on Thursday, allows Puerto Rico to restructure some of its debt as U.S. cities and counties can. It also creates a board appointed by Congress and the White House that will oversee the debt-restructuring process and Puerto Rico's finances, including requiring the island to have balanced budgets. The measure came too late, with Puerto Rico's governor on Thursday declaring a debt moratorium on nearly $2 billion worth of debt that is due Friday, marking the largest default in the island's history. Though the bill is intended to help Puerto Rico, the outside oversight board and a provision to cut the minimum wage for some workers have fed into the sense of many that islanders are second-class citizens, forced to beg Congress for help in a time of need. "If Puerto Rico was a state, Congress could not approve a law of this nature," said Charlie Rodriguez, a former president of the island's Senate from the pro-statehood party. "But since Puerto Rico is a territory, Congress can do whatever it pleases." The shift in sentiment is dramatized by the woes of the governing Popular Democratic Party, the standard-bearer for the island's current status as a commonwealth. "The party has completely fallen apart," said Eduardo Villanueva, a political analyst who supports independence. He said the congressional action "was the final blow to the commonwealth status." Even some members of the party concede it faces a challenge. "There are legitimate questions about where we should be headed," said Roberto Prats, a former senator from the party. "We have a fiscal crisis; we have a debt crisis, an economic recession and an outcry of people demanding that we address the situation of the political status." Unemployment is at nearly 12 percent, higher than in any U.S. state, fueling an exodus of Puerto Ricans to Florida and other states something that itself strengthens the bonds with the mainland. Many of the problems stem from the end of a federal tax break for manufacturers that prompted many factories to close, as well as massive public pension liabilities and the high cost of energy. The territorial government, its municipalities and utilities accrued about $70 billion in debt that the governor finally declared "unpayable," last year, setting off a chain of defaults. Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898 and it gained limited political autonomy when the U.S. approved its constitution in 1952. The territorial status has helped the island to preserve some its cultural identity, allowing it, for example, to send its own athletes to the Olympics and to keep Spanish as an official language. That autonomy comes with a cost: While islanders are citizens, they can't vote in presidential elections and have no voting representative in Congress. They also pay Social Security and Medicare taxes, but receive less federal funding than U.S. states. Only a small minority now backs independence, and when times were good, many people like Guerrero supported the current status. They've since changed their mind. "Statehood would fix everything," said Jaime Cruz, a 73-year-old lottery vendor. "Things are going down the drain for me." Adel Musa, a 43-year-old clothing store owner, said he believes that statehood would help pull the island out of the economic slump. "People right now are living in misery," he said. "We're trying to survive, but it's hard." There haven't been reliable published polls on the statehood issue in recent months. But in a 2012 referendum, 54 percent said they wanted some change in the island's status. Sixty-one percent who answered a second question said they favored statehood. But so many people left that part blank that the supporters of the current status argue that the result was too muddled to be legitimate. Puerto Ricans may get another chance to formally express their views soon. Both the pro-commonwealth and the pro-statehood parties say they want a new, clearer referendum. Regardless of the outcome, the U.S. Congress has final say, and it may be reluctant to welcome an island of nearly 3.5 million people in economic shambles that could change the balance of power in the Senate. Jose Manuel Saldana, a former president of the University of Puerto Rico who has become a statehood supporter, said people are realizing the current status is no longer viable. "The crisis has proven that we need a change despite emotional attachments to the past," he said. "Human beings don't change substantially unless they're faced with an existential crisis. Puerto Rico has been presented with its existential crisis." Human, bear conflicts on the rise in Northern Rockies HELENA, Mont. (AP) Grizzly bears have rebounded from widespread extermination across the Northern Rockies over the past several decades. But conflicts with humans have been on the rise, and the death of a Montana man on Wednesday brings to at least seven the number of people fatally mauled by bears in the region since 2010. An estimated 1,000 grizzlies live in and around Glacier National Park, and at least 700 in and around Yellowstone National Park. The last time a bear killed someone in Glacier was 1998, when three bears killed and partially ate a park vendor employee while he was hiking. Here's a look at recent fatal bear attacks in the Northern Rockies: FILE-- This undated photo provided by the National Park Service shows a grizzly bear walking along a ridge in Montana. Grizzly bears have rebounded from widespread extermination across the Northern Rockies over the past several decades. But conflicts with humans have been on the rise, and the death of a Montana man on Wednesday,June 29, 2016, brings to at least seven the number of people fatally mauled by bears in the region since 2010. (National Park Service via AP) June 17, 2010 Erwin Evert, 70, a field botanist from Park Ridge, Illinois, is killed by a male grizzly bear in Wyoming, about 7 miles east of Yellowstone National Park. Researchers had recently captured and released the bear. ___ July 28, 2010 Kevin Kammer, 48, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, is killed when a female grizzly with three cubs pulls him from his tent in the middle of the night at the Soda Butte Campground where Kammer was sleeping alone near Cooke City, Montana. Two others in the campground were injured in separate attacks. ___ July 7, 2011 Brian Matayoshi, 57, of Torrance, California, is killed after attempting to run from a female grizzly that he and his wife encountered while hiking the Wapiti Lake Trail in Yellowstone National Park. ___ August, 2011 John Wallace, 59, of Chassell, Michigan, is killed by a grizzly while hiking alone on the Mary Mountain Trail in Yellowstone National Park. A female grizzly is later captured and killed after DNA evidence links it to the deaths of both Matayoshi and Wallace. ___ Sept. 4, 2014 Adam Stewart, 31, of Virgin, Utah, is killed by a bear while alone conducting research for an ecological consulting firm in northwest Wyoming's Bridger-Teton National Forest. Authorities are unable to say conclusively whether a black bear or grizzly bear was responsible. ___ August 7, 2015 Lance Crosby, 48, of Billings, Montana, is killed by a female grizzly with cub while hiking alone and off-trail near the Elephant Back Loop Trail in Yellowstone National Park. The female grizzly was later killed. ___ June 29, 2016 Brad Treat, 38, of West Glacier, Montana, is killed by a grizzly while mountain biking with a friend just east of Glacier National Park. FILE--In this Sept. 25, 2013 photo, a grizzly bear cub rests near a cabin a few miles from the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park in Gardiner, Mont. Grizzly bears have rebounded from widespread extermination across the Northern Rockies over the past several decades. But conflicts with humans have been on the rise, and the death of a Montana man on Wednesday,June 29, 2016, brings to at least seven the number of people fatally mauled by bears in the region since 2010. (Alan Rogers/Casper Star-Tribune via AP, file) A look at wildfires burning across the US West A look at wildfires burning in the West and the aftermath of earlier blazes: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Authorities planned autopsies on two charred bodies found 45 miles east of San Diego after a wildfire swept through the region. The county medical examiner's office said the male and female bodies located Wednesday were between two boulders on a hill 50 to 70 yards from the closest residence. Significant injuries prevented visual identification of the bodies. Residents had reported a couple that lived on the property was missing. Neighbors Leann Mitsui, left, and Stephanie Riverburgh hugged after they and two other women discovered the burned remains of two victims of the Potrero, Calif., fire, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. San Diego County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman Jan Caldwell said the unidentified man and woman were found Wednesday near a boulder in Potrero, about 45 miles east of San Diego. The property had been under mandatory evacuation orders after a fire began on June 19 and has since spread to nearly 12 square miles. (John Gibbins/The San Diego Union-Tribune via AP) The fire erupted near the town of Potrero on June 19 and forced extensive evacuations as it spread rapidly over several days, destroying five homes and 11 outbuildings while growing to nearly 12 square miles. It's 97 percent contained. Mop-up and investigation of the cause continued. In the southern Sierra Nevada, a fire that also killed two people and destroyed communities as it spread over nearly 73 square miles near Lake Isabella was 80 percent contained. A final tally counted 285 homes destroyed along with an AT&T microwave cell hub. Twelve residences were damaged. Two shelters remained open but all evacuations have been lifted. The cause of the fire, which erupted June 23, remained under investigation. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA A wildfire that charged through inaccessible terrain and climbed out of a steep canyon along the middle fork of the American River has now charred about two square miles. At least 400 homes about 50 miles northeast of Sacramento have been evacuated. The fire is threatening some than 2,600 homes, businesses and other structures. No damage to structures or injuries had been reported as of Thursday. The fire was 12 percent contained. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokesman Daniel Berlant says the Red Cross has set up an evacuation center in Auburn, near Sacramento and 140 miles northeast of San Francisco. IDAHO A wildfire burning through grass and sagebrush in the Boise foothills has destroyed a house and an outbuilding, but no injuries have been reported. Officials say the fire started around midnight Wednesday and has consumed more than 2 square miles. Several thousand homes were threatened, and voluntary evacuations were in place, but few residents used a shelter. Crews using bulldozers built a fire line to protect a subdivision. Fire spokeswoman Tammy Barry says investigators determined that fireworks sparked the blaze but have no suspects. Aircraft started dropping retardant early Thursday and the active part of the blaze has been stopped. Barry says helicopters will scoop water from the Boise River near Barber Park, so river floaters should be alert. About 140 firefighters are battling the blaze. MONTANA A wildfire burning on national forest land in southwestern Montana grew to 1.5 square miles on Thursday, mostly due to a burnout Wednesday afternoon that was intended to prevent the fire from spreading toward the community of Darby. Residents in 200 homes remained on notice to prepare for possible evacuation. The lightning-caused fire began at about noon on June 24 and is burning in steep, dangerous terrain about 10 miles south of Hamilton. Thunderstorms with gusty winds were forecast for Thursday afternoon and evening. Fire information officer Kimberly Nelson says the northwestern part of the fire is burning into a wilderness area, where it is unsafe to put firefighters on the ground. Nelson says there are 136 firefighters working the fire and six aircraft are available to dump water and retardant. A wildfire burns near the Table Rock cross in Boise, Idaho in the early morning hours of Thursday, June 30, 2016. Strong winds pushed the fire around Table Rock and south toward Warm Springs Mesa subdivision and Harris Ranch, according to the Idaho Statesman. (Joe Jaszewski/Idaho Statesman via AP) Queen marks deadly Somme centenary at Westminster Abbey LONDON (AP) Queen Elizabeth II attended a service at Westminster Abbey on Thursday, the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, one of the deadliest chapters of World War I. The 90-year-old British monarch laid a wreath of roses on the grave of the Unknown Warrior inside the ancient abbey in London before a bugler sounded the Last Post, a tribute to the fallen. An honor guard of soldiers and civilians will hold an overnight vigil at the grave, ending just before 7:30 a.m., the time British troops were sent into battle on July 1, 1916. The British and French offensive against German forces ground on for 141 days in 1916, leaving more than a million dead or wounded. Britain's Prince William, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, left, attend a military-led vigil on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme at the Thiepval Memorial in France, where 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers are commemorated, Thursday June 30, 2016. (Yui Mok/Pool via AP) Prince William, his wife Kate and Prince Harry attended a vigil Thursday evening at the Thiepval Memorial in northern France, where 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers are commemorated. On Friday, the young royals will join Prime Minister David Cameron, French President Francois Hollande and other dignitaries from the combatant nations at a service in France. Cameron said it was "an opportunity to think about the impact of the devastation felt by communities across all of the nations involved, which left mothers without sons, wives without husbands and children without fathers." "But today is also a chance to stand as friends with the representatives of all the countries who are here today," said Cameron, whose country voted last week to leave the European Union, an international alliance set up in the aftermath of another conflict, World War II. The vote has cost Cameron his job and a leadership race is now underway in Britain's Conservative Party to replace him. Britain's Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge attend a military-led vigil on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme at the Thiepval Memorial in France, where 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers are commemorated, Thursday June 30, 2016. (Yui Mok/Pool via AP) Britain's Prince William, right, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry attend a military-led vigil on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme at the Thiepval Memorial in France, where 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers are commemorated, Thursday June 30, 2016. (Yui Mok/Pool via AP) Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, right, his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge,leave at the end of a military-led vigil to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme, one of the deadliest chapters of World War I, at the Thiepval memorial, northern France, Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo/Francois Mori) A British soldier knees at Thiepval Memorial, ,northern France, during a military-led vigil to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme one of the deadliest chapters of World War I, Thursday, June 30, 2016. (AP Photo/Francois Mori) Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, right, his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, and Britain's Prince Harry, left, leave after a military-led vigil to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme, one of the deadliest chapters of World War I, at the Thiepval memorial, northern France, Thursday, June 30, 2016.(AP Photo/Francois Mori) Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, right, his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, and Britain's Prince Harry, left, attend part of a military-led vigil to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme, one of the deadliest chapters of World War I, at the Thiepval memorial, northern France, Thursday, June 30, 2016.(AP Photo/Francois Mori) Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, left, attend a service on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, one of the deadliest chapters of World War I, at Westminster Abbey in London, Thursday June 30, 2016. (Niklas Hallen'n/Pool via AP) British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha Cameron attend a service on the eve of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, one of the deadliest chapters of World War I, at Westminster Abbey in London, Thursday June 30, 2016. (Niklas Halle'n/Pool via AP) Turkish government lawyer: US cleric had 'unlawful conduct' SCRANTON, Pa. (AP) A lawyer representing the Turkish government says he'll continue exposing what he calls the "unlawful conduct" of a reclusive Muslim cleric in Pennsylvania whom Turkey's president accuses of orchestrating a coup attempt. Robert Amsterdam released a statement Thursday, one day after a federal judge in Scranton dismissed his lawsuit against Fethullah Gulen. "Despite the outcome of this ruling, a very clear message has been sent to Gulen and his co-conspirators in the Poconos: the days of impunity are numbered, and your unlawful conduct will be brought to light," Amsterdam said. The suit contended Gulen ordered sympathetic police, prosecutors and judges in Turkey to target members of a rival spiritual movement critical of his teachings. The legal action was filed as part of a crackdown on the Turkish cleric and his followers by President Recep Erdogan. U.S. District Judge Robert Mariani threw out the suit on Wednesday, ruling the claims did not belong in U.S. courts. Gulen's attorneys had called the legal action an attempt by Erdogan to silence Gulen, who has criticized the Turkish leader. Erdogan has launched a broad campaign against Gulen's movement in Turkey and abroad. The Erdogan regime has carried out a purge of civil servants suspected of ties to the movement, seized businesses and closed some media organizations. Gulen has been charged criminally with plotting to overthrow the government, and was placed on trial in absentia in Turkey earlier this year. The Latest: Rauner signs stopgap budget deal SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) The Latest on Illinois lawmakers' attempts to approve a stopgap state budget and money for schools (all times local): 8:45 p.m. Gov. Bruce Rauner has signed legislation that ensures public schools stay open for a year and provides colleges and social services programs money for six months. Sen. William Delgado, D-Chicago, right, who is retiring from the Senate this week, shakes hands with fellow senator Bill Cunningham, D-Chicago, during a standing ovation on the Senate floor in Springfield, Ill., Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Illinois lawmakers and Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner were trying to craft a short-term budget deal Wednesday to ensure public schools open this fall and other services are funded while a fight over a full spending plan continues. (David Spencer/The State Journal-Register via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT The Republican governor signed the partial budget Thursday evening after he and Democratic leaders crafted a deal after days of negotiations. The agreement brings short-term certainty to the state as a new fiscal year begins Friday, but it doesn't solve the ideological chasm that has led to Rauner and Democrats failing to pass a full budget. The plan gives schools just over $11 billion in state and federal dollars and higher education institutions $1 billion. Social services programs will get about $700 million and various state agencies are also getting funding to cover operational expenses until January. ___ 5:15 p.m. The partial-year budget the Illinois General Assembly sent to Gov. Bruce Rauner drew only a handful of "no" votes in the House. Democratic Rep. Jack Franks of Marengo says the piecemeal plan pushes hard choices off until after the November election. Franks is leaving the House to run for McHenry County Board chairman. He says there were no "profiles in courage" on Thursday. Barrington Hills Republican Rep. David McSweeney said before the vote he would oppose the plan because it would worsen the state's financial position and increase the likelihood lawmakers will have to approve an income tax increase in January. He says legislators should work on reforming spending on health care and pensions and opposes a property-tax increase for Chicago. Franks and McSweeney were among "no" tallies in the House's 105-4 vote. The Senate approved it 54-0. ___ 4:15 p.m. Democratic leaders in the Illinois General Assembly are congratulating their colleagues for adopting a partial-year budget plan but warn that serious work remains. The House and Senate sent Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner legislation Thursday to keep government operating for six months and schools funded for a full year. Chicago Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan indicated he had achieved what he's sought since Rauner took office 18 months ago. He says the deal is the result of "serious compromise and good-faith efforts." He noted Rauner set aside his agenda for changes to the business climate that Democrats oppose but acknowledged Democrats didn't get everything they wanted either. Senate President John Cullerton a Chicago Democrat says it's an indication of what can be done when all sides work together. ___ 3:50 p.m. Illinois lawmakers averted a shutdown of schools and avoided further uncertainty in government operations with a partial budget deal that funds education for a year and other areas for six months. The Illinois Legislature passed a package of bills Thursday to complete an agreement by Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic lawmakers after days of negotiations. But the deal means the state will still enter a second fiscal year Friday without a full budget and will likely extend the partisan fighting over a comprehensive spending plan past the November elections. The partial budget ensures schools will operate for a full academic year and brings a sigh of relief for districts that wondered whether they could open at all. Higher education institutions, social services providers, and government operations will get money for six months. ___ 3 p.m. The Illinois House has sent to the Senate the final pieces of a budget deal that would increase funding for schools by more than $500 million and keep the state operating for six months. Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic leaders negotiated the agreement to ensure schools open this fall and government services continue when the new fiscal year begins Friday. The House approved it 105-4. The stopgap budget includes money for universities, social services, prisons and other programs. No school district loses money compared with the current year. Districts that serve more low-income students will split a $250 million grant, with Chicago Public Schools receiving about $100 million. Lawmakers also allowed the Chicago Board of Education to raise property taxes $250 million to help pay billions in teacher pension debt. The Senate is expected to vote on the bills later Thursday. ___ 11:50 a.m. The Illinois House has approved the first pieces of a stopgap state budget deal aimed at funding education and keeping the state operating. Lawmakers passed a measure Thursday that allows Illinois not to repay about $454 million previously taken from special state funds, freeing up that money for other uses. The bill also freezes lawmaker pay and per diems for another year and extends online lottery sales. The House also approved legislation 73-37 to provide $215 million to Chicago Public Schools to help fund its teacher pensions, as the state does for districts outside the city. House GOP Leader Jim Durkin says under a deal negotiated between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic leaders, the bill won't go to the governor for his signature until the Legislature approves statewide pension reform. ___ 10:45 a.m. Illinois lawmakers have started advancing pieces of a stopgap budget deal to keep the state running and fund schools in the fiscal year that begins Friday. The House Executive Committee on Thursday morning unanimously passed legislation negotiated between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic leaders who control the General Assembly. The full House is expected to vote on the bills later Thursday, followed by the Senate. Lawmakers say the deal includes money to fund state services for the next six months. It also provides a full year of money for elementary and secondary education, including hundreds of millions of dollars for financially struggling Chicago Public Schools. The state also will begin contributing to the cost of pensions for teachers in Chicago, as it does for districts outside the city. ___ 1 a.m. Illinois lawmakers are expected to vote on a stopgap spending deal that would ensure schools open in August and would fund state services for the next six months. After days of negotiations, lawmakers said Wednesday that Democratic leaders and Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner had crafted a plan expected to be brought up for votes on the House and Senate floors Thursday, one day before the current fiscal year ends. The plan would bring certainty to schools and relief to cash-strapped colleges and social service providers. But it also means the state will enter a second fiscal year without a full spending plan in place, setting up a high-stakes November election that will influence budget discussions in January. A member of the media is silhouetted along with television cameras positioned outside the Governor's office at the Illinois Statehouse in Springfield on Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Illinois lawmakers and Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner were trying to craft a short-term budget deal Wednesday to ensure public schools open this fall and other services are funded while a fight over a full spending plan continues. (David Spencer/The State Journal-Register via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, left, and Illinois Senate President John Cullerton, D-Chicago, right, enter Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner's office at the Illinois State Capitol Tuesday, June 28, 2016, in Springfield, Ill. If Illinois enters another year without a budget by Thursday, cash will stop flowing to local 911 centers, preventative health screenings and tuition grants for low-income college students. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman) The Latest: Al Gore proud of daughter arrested in protest BOSTON (AP) The Latest on the arrest of former Vice President Al Gore's daughter during a protest of a Boston pipeline (all times local): 4:40 p.m. Former Vice President Al Gore says he's very proud of his daughter, who was arrested during a protest at a pipeline under construction in Boston. In this Wednesday, June 29, 2016 photo, Karenna Gore, daughter of former Vice President Al Gore protests at the site of Spectra Energy's West Roxbury Lateral pipeline in Boston. Karenna Gore was among demonstrators that tried to block construction activity on the site by lying in a trench. (Kori Feener via AP) Karenna Gore was arrested with 22 others on Wednesday during a protest at Houston-based Spectra Energy Corp.'s West Roxbury Lateral pipeline. They oppose the project because of safety and climate change concerns. She is due to be arraigned Friday. The Democratic former vice president says through a spokeswoman on Thursday that the country is facing a crisis and should speed up the transition from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy and a "decarbonized economy." A Spectra Energy spokesman says the company's pipelines provide a vital source of reliable, affordable energy, and that low energy prices help everyone, particularly those least able to pay their bills. ___ 4:20 p.m. A daughter of former Vice President Al Gore says she's honored to have been part of a protest at which 23 people were arrested at a pipeline under construction in Boston. The arrests happened Wednesday at the site of Houston-based Spectra Energy Corp.'s West Roxbury Lateral pipeline. Karenna Gore says in an email "there are higher moral principles at stake here that merit nonviolent civil disobedience." She's the director of the Center for Earth Ethics at the Union Theological Seminary in New York. She's due to be arraigned Friday on resisting arrest charges. The protesters oppose the pipeline because of safety and climate change concerns. Spectra Energy says it doesn't condone actions that take first responders away from their duties. ___ 1 p.m. Organizers say the daughter of former Vice President Al Gore was among 23 people arrested during a protest of a Boston pipeline under construction. The arrests happened Wednesday at the site of Spectra Energy's West Roxbury Lateral pipeline. Forty-two-year-old Karenna Gore was among demonstrators that tried to block construction activity on the site by lying in a trench. Protest organizers say Gore and others facing resisting arrest charges will be arraigned Friday, while others facing trespassing and disturbing the peace charges are being arraigned Thursday. Representatives for Gore and her father, a prominent climate change activist, didn't immediately return requests for comment. Creighton Welch, a spokesman for Houston-based Spectra Energy, said the company does not condone actions that take first responders away from their duties. Even if Anthony had a year to analyze and dissect each piece...(he couldn't tell if it would)... stand the harsh light of public exposure. WUWT insider Willis Eschenbach tells you all you need to know about Anthony Watts and his blog, WattsUpWithThat (WUWT). As part of his scathing commentary , Wondering Willis accuses Anthony Watts of being clueless about the blog articles he posts. To paraphrase: Click here to read more. Puerto Rico imposes moratorium on nearly $2B worth of debt SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) Puerto Rico's governor signed an executive order on Thursday to implement a debt moratorium on more than $1 billion worth of general obligation bonds as the government braced for the largest default in the island's history. The move comes as U.S. President Barack Obama signed a last-minute rescue package to restructure some of the island's $70 billion of public debt and temporarily protects it from lawsuits amid a worsening economic crisis that has led to several defaults. Puerto Rico faces a $2 billion debt payment due Friday that includes $1 billion worth of the general obligation bonds, which are protected by the island's constitution. Gov. Alejandro Garcia Padilla previously said the government did not have enough money to make those payments. FILE - In this July 29, file 2015 photo, the Puerto Rican flag flies in front of Puerto Rico's Capitol as in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Congress edged closer to delivering relief to debt-stricken Puerto Rico as the Senate on Wednesday, June 29, 2016, cleared the way for passage of a last-minute financial rescue package for the territory of 3.5 million Americans. (AP Photo/Ricardo Arduengo, File) Garcia also signed executive orders on Thursday that expands a state of emergency to four other government agencies, including the island's largest public university and a retirement system that has been shorted by $40 billion. "These measures are reasonable and necessary to ensure essential services while the debt is restructured under the legal framework provided by PROMESA," he said, referring to the acronym for the bill that Obama signed. Puerto Rico already faces three separate lawsuits filed by creditors challenging a law that allows the governor to declare debt payment moratoriums. Creditors have noted that general obligation bonds are protected by the island's constitution and are supposed to receive priority. Exempt from the debt moratorium is Puerto Rico's heavily indebted power company, which announced Thursday that it reached a separate deal with creditors to avoid defaulting on an upcoming $415 million payment. The Electric Power Authority said creditors have agreed to buy $264 million worth of bonds as part of the agreement. Those creditors hold 70 percent of the agency's $9 billion debt. County school official charged with having sex with students TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) A former principal who is now personnel director for schools in Alabama's most populous county was arrested Thursday on charges of having sex with students in two counties. Jefferson County schools personnel director Brett William Kirkham, 39, was arrested in Tuscaloosa County on charges of being a school employee and having sex with a student younger than 19, authorities said. He also faces related obscenity charges in the county. In Jefferson County, where Birmingham is the county seat, officials said Kirkham was charged with having sex with a student. Prosecutor Bill Veitch said Kirkham allegedly had a relationship for at least five years with a male who is no longer in school, and there could be additional victims. "There's a lot of people out there who know a lot," he said. "This has affected a lot of people." Kirkham has been on paid leave from his job as personnel director since earlier this month. Kirkham previously was a teacher and principal in Hueytown, and he was recently named as a finalist for the superintendent's job in his native Decatur, but the position was offered to another person. Court records were not immediately available to show whether Kirkham had a lawyer in either county to speak on his behalf. UN approves seat shared by Italy and Netherlands UNITED NATIONS (AP) The United Nations General Assembly has approved a deal that will give a Security Council seat to Italy in 2017 and the Netherlands in 2018. The two countries agreed to split the two-year term after neither received the two-thirds majority needed to win the seat outright and were deadlocked 95 to 95. The General Assembly formalized the agreement Thursday by voting Italy into the seat for a one-year term in 2017. The body will meet next spring to vote on the Netherlands for 2018. 'The Hunt' casts animal world's predators in new light LOS ANGELES (AP) Watching a polar bear stalking a doe-eyed seal for a meal tends to put our warm feelings for the bear on ice. But "The Hunt," a seven-part documentary series from the creators of the landmark "Planet Earth," presents the case for reconsidering predators as the bad guys of the natural world. That perspective along with a focus on the gripping drama of the hunt and not the grimness of the kill makes the series distinctive. It debuts 9 p.m. EDT Sunday on BBC America. In this photo provided by BBC America, from "The Hunt", a Thomson's gazelle leaps away from a cheetah's trip in Kenya. "The Hunt," a seven-part documentary series from the creators of the landmark "Planet Earth," presents the case for reconsidering predators as the bad guys of the natural world. Through its storytelling approach, "The Hunt" attempts to put each predators quest in context. "When you see a cheetah hunting and you realize she has four 8-month-old cubs and they will starve if she doesn't kill, then you're with the predator more," said executive producer Alastair Fothergill. (Gregoire Bouguereau/BBC America via AP) "If you look at the history of predator shows, they tend to be bite-y, bloody things," said executive producer Alastair Fothergill. "The predators are usually villains, and that's not only a little bit boring but totally inaccurate. Predators in the natural world are the hardest-working animals in nature and usually fail." As an example, he contrasts lions with the zebras that are among their plant-eating prey. "If the grass grows, the zebra's fine," Fothergill said. "Lions quite often get their jaws smashed by the kicking zebra. It's much harder for predators to succeed than you would think." With the number of kills depicted in "The Hunt" limited to one or two per episode and carefully edited, he said, the show is appropriate for family viewing. (That doesn't include the body count racked up by the likes of humpback whales or insects; as Fothergill sees it, it's "fur on fur" violence that generally spurs concern.) Through its storytelling approach, "The Hunt" attempts to put each predator's quest in context. "When you see a cheetah hunting and you realize she has four 8-month-old cubs and they will starve if she doesn't kill, then you're with the predator more," Fothergill said. Besides the reliably impressive narration of David Attenborough, the documentary series also captures scenes that are extraordinary even in an era of stellar nature documentaries. The same type of stabilized camera and powerful lens used on "Planet Earth" was employed for "The Hunt." Just a sampling of the memorable images: the polar bear perched majestically atop a delicate ice outcropping to scan the horizon for prey; rare underwater shots of a blue whale's seven-minute feast; and wild dogs in hot pursuit of a wildebeest. The last was tracked by a camera mounted atop a vehicle driving at 40-plus miles per hour alongside the fleeing African antelope, which "makes you feel that you're another dog running in the pack," Fothergill said. The sense of place that dominated "Planet Earth" and "Frozen Planet" is not lost in "The Hunt," Huw Cordey, who worked on those films and is a producer on "Hunt," said in a statement. But it was time to focus on animal behavior at its most compelling, Fothergill said. "Undoubtedly, the most dramatic, the most exciting, the most dynamic behavior in the natural world is the relationship between predators and prey," he said. ___ Online: http://www.bbcamerica.com/ ___ Minnesota woman accused of hiding machete used in beheading GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. (AP) A Minnesota woman was charged Thursday with hiding a machete her boyfriend allegedly used to decapitate a man she said raped her. Prosecutors charged the 22-year-old woman with being an accomplice to second-degree murder after the fact and with third-degree assault, both felonies. Her bail was set at $2 million without conditions, the same as her boyfriend's. She's accused of tying up and beating David Haiman, breaking his nose, after he arrived at the Grand Rapids apartment she shared with Joseph Thoresen, 35. She untied him, then Thoresen punched him repeatedly, the complaint said. This undated photo provided by the Itasca County Sheriff's Office in Grand Rapids, Minn., shows Joseph Thoresen. Thoresen is accused of decapitating another man after his girlfriend told him that the man had sexually assaulted her. (Itasca County Sheriff's Office via AP) Prosecutors allege Thoresen later ambushed Haiman along a road near Ball Club and used a machete to decapitate the 20-year-old Hibbing man. Authorities found Haiman's torso and head Sunday. The woman allegedly hid the machete in the couple's apartment. According to the complaint in Itasca County, the woman had told Thoresen that Haiman had sexually assaulted her. The Associated Press generally doesn't name people who say they're victims of sexual abuse. Her attorney didn't return a phone message seeking comment. Thoresen is charged with murder. His attorney, Darla Nubson, declined to comment. Itasca County sheriff's investigator Mark Weller told the Minneapolis Star Tribune that he "can't confirm or deny" whether the sexual assault occurred. "We are looking into that," Weller said. Obama signs bill easing access to government records WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama signed into law Thursday measures to give the public greater access to government documents and records under the nearly half-century-old Freedom of Information Act. The new law will require federal agencies to consider releasing records under a "presumption of openness" standard, instead of presuming that the information is secret. Supporters say the shift will make it harder for agencies to withhold information. The law also cuts the number of exemptions agencies may use to block the release of requested information. President Barack Obama closes the cover after signing the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016 as he looks to sign the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) A website will be created to streamline and centralize information requests to any agency. Agencies currently handle information requests in different ways. The White House said in a fact sheet released Thursday that the website, foia.gov, would be created sometime next year. The law also places a 25-year sunset on the government's ability to withhold documents that shed light on how the government makes decisions. Before the new law, many documents related to decision-making could be kept from the public forever. It also requires agencies to proactively disclose documents that are likely to be of interest to the public to make more government documents available outside the FOIA request process. Before he signed Senate bill S. 337 during a brief Oval Office ceremony, Obama said it would make permanent some of the changes the administration already has made to make government more open and responsive. "But I know that people haven't always been satisfied with the speed with which they're getting responses and requests," Obama said. "Hopefully, this is going to help and be an important initiative for us to continue on the reform path." The legislation was sponsored by Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt. The Freedom of Information Act became law on July 4, 1966. ___ Man at center of 'Serial' podcast granted a new trial BALTIMORE (AP) After spending 16 years in prison for the killing of his former high school girlfriend, a man at the center of popular podcast "Serial" has a chance at freedom. Retired Baltimore Circuit Judge Martin Welch ruled Thursday that Adnan Syed, 35, deserved a new trial because his lawyer didn't challenge testimony in the case that became the focus of the podcast, which captivated millions of listeners around the world. Syed was convicted in 2000 of murdering Hae Min Lee a year earlier and burying her in a shallow grave in a park in northwest Baltimore. He was sentenced to life in prison. FILE - In a Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016 file photo, Adnan Syed enters Courthouse East in Baltimore prior to a hearing. The hearing, scheduled to last three days before Baltimore Circuit Judge Martin Welch, is meant to determine whether Syed's conviction will be overturned and case retried. After spending 16 years in prison, Syed, convicted of murder, who was at the center of the podcast "Serial" has won a new trial in Baltimore. Baltimore Circuit Judge Martin Welch ruled Thursday, June 30, 2016, that Syed deserves another trial because his attorney failed to cross-examine a cell tower expert about the reliability of data. (Barbara Haddock Taylor/The Baltimore Sun via AP, File) WASHINGTON EXAMINER OUT; MANDATORY CREDIT /The Baltimore Sun via AP) WASHINGTON EXAMINER OUT; MANDATORY CREDIT During a post-conviction hearing in early February, Syed's attorneys argued he deserved a retrial on the grounds that his original attorney, Cristina Gutierrez, did not contact Asia McClain Chapman, an alibi witness who said she saw Syed at the Woodlawn library about the same time prosecutors say Lee was murdered. Additionally, Syed's current attorneys argued cell tower data linking Syed's phone to the burial site on the day of Lee's murder was misleading because it was presented to jurors without a cover sheet warning that incoming call data was unreliable. In Welch's order, he disagreed that Gutierrez erred when she failed to contact Chapman, or that prosecutors breached their duty by withholding exculpatory evidence. But Welch did agree that Syed's attorney provided "ineffective assistance for the failure to cross-examine the state's cell tower expert about the reliability of cell tower location evidence" that placed him near the burial site. The state had argued that because Syed didn't raise the issue of his trial attorney's failure to cross-examine the state's cell tower expert in a prior proceeding, he waived his right to make it an issue now. But the judge ruled that Syed didn't "intelligently or knowingly" waive his right to raise the issue, noting that he never completed his high school degree. "Requiring a layman who lacks a complete high school education to understand the intricacies of cellular network design and the legal ramifications of trial counsel's failures to challenge the evidence would be inconsistent with the spirit of the Sixth Amendment," the judge wrote. The judge said the attorney's performance "fell below the standard of reasonable professional judgment" when she failed to confront the state's expert about the reliability of the cell tower evidence. At a news conference, Syed's attorney Justin Brown said he "fully expects" the state to appeal the judge's decision. But he said he and the rest of the defense team have "dug our heels in" and remain determined to fight on Adnan Syed's behalf, including requesting that Syed be released from jail while he awaits retrial. "This is obviously an incredible victory," he said. "We know the state is not going to give up, and we're ready." Brown said earning a new trial in Baltimore is "very difficult." "This was us getting over the hill," he said. "There's a lot more work to be done, but we're feeling pretty confident." In a statement, the state attorney general's office said that although Welch ruled in its favor on some issues, "there does appear to be at least one ground that will need to be resolved by the appellate courts." "The State's responsibility remains to pursue justice, and to defend what it believes is a valid conviction," the statement concludes. During the extensive hearing, defense attorneys and prosecutors called witnesses and vigorously cross-examined others. Chapman spent nearly two days on the stand, testifying she and Syed spent about 15 minutes chatting in the library on Jan. 13, 1999, but that despite repeated efforts to reach Syed's defense team at the time with an offer to be an alibi, she was never contacted. Chapman wrote a pair of letters and sent them to Syed in jail days after the man's arrest, detailing their meeting. This was Syed's second attempt at a new trial. Welch denied the earlier post-conviction relief bid in 2014 after determining that Gutierrez's decision not to pursue Chapman was the result of reasonable trial strategy, not neglect. In his Thursday order, Welch reiterated his stance that failing to contact Chapman didn't constitute a failure of duty because her testimony, which pertained to the time of the Lee's murder, had little to do with Syed's defense strategy instead pertaining primarily to the timeline of Lee's murder. Brown also called witnesses to testify that cell tower data an important piece of the state's case against Syed should have never been presented to jurors without an instruction sheet warning that any incoming call data is inconclusive. Brown showed the judge an affidavit from the radio frequency technician who testified at Syed's trial for the prosecution that said his testimony would have been different had he seen the instruction sheet prior to taking the stand. But prosecutors countered that the instructions didn't pertain to any relevant data placing Syed's phone in Leakin Park during the time Lee was buried. This was the issue that persuaded Welch to grant Syed a new trial. The judge wrote, "there is a substantial possibility that the result of the proceeding would have been different but for trial counsel's failure to cross-examine the State cell tower witness about the disclaimer." The podcast, which debuted in the winter of 2014, attracted millions of listeners and shattered records for the number of times a podcast has been streamed and downloaded. The loyal army of listeners often acted as armchair detectives, uncovering new evidence and raising new questions about the case. When asked if Syed would have likely won a new trial without the fanfare surrounding "Serial," Brown said, "I don't think so." But in his ruling Welch directly addressed the issue. "Regardless of the public interest surrounding this case, the court used its best efforts to address the merits of the petitioner's petition for post-conviction relief like it would in any other case that comes before the court; unfettered by sympathy, prejudice or public opinion," he wrote. In a footnote, he added that he didn't listen to the podcast because it is not part of the evidentiary record. ___ Suriname court postpones decision on leader's murder trial PARAMARIBO, Suriname (AP) Suriname's military court on Thursday postponed a final decision on whether President Desi Bouterse will go back on trial for the killings of political opponents when he was a military dictator in 1982. Judge Cynthia Valstein-Montnor said an order from Bouterse to halt proceedings against him might apply to prosecutors but it did not affect judges on the military court. She said a final decision would be announced Aug. 5. Earlier this week, Bouterse instructed Suriname's attorney general to halt proceedings against him, invoking a constitutional article that allows the president to issue such orders in the interests of national security. FILE - In this Aug. 12, 2015, file photo, Suriname President Desire Delano Bouterse salutes during a military parade, after being sworn in for his second term, in Paramaribo, Suriname. A two-time coup leader and former dictator accused of executing 15 political opponents in 1982, Bouterse has again moved on Wednesday, June 29, 2016, to prevent authorities in the South American nation from putting him on trial for those 15 deaths. (AP Photo/Ertugrul Kilic, File) Hugo Essed, a lawyer for relatives of the 15 victims, said he was "hugely encouraged" by the court's postponement. "If the judges want to, they can keep going with this trial even if the prosecutor refuses to," Essed said. But Irvin Kanhai, Bouterse's lawyer, contended that the military court must follow the president's order to halt proceedings. "The government of Suriname has unanimously given the military court an order. When the prosecutor says he cannot prosecute, there is no trial," Kanhai said. The military court session followed a June court ruling that invalidated an amnesty law pushed through parliament by Bouterse's supporters after he was elected president. The court ordered the resumption of the trial against him and 24 co-defendants. Bouterse this week said the trial poses a danger to the internal security of the country, which is struggling through a recession because of the sharp drop in commodity prices. Bouterse and 24 allies from his time as a military dictator in the 1980s avoided trial until November 2007 on charges stemming from the execution of the 15 prominent political opponents. The former strongman returned to power in 2010 when he was elected president by parliament. Two years later, lawmakers passed an amnesty law and court proceedings were put on hold, angering human rights activists. Trump talks trade at shuttered NH factory MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) Republican Donald Trump talked trade at a shuttered New Hampshire factory on Thursday, putting a more personal spin on his vow to rip up the nation's trade deals and impose new tariffs in an effort to revive local manufacturing jobs. Speaking to a small, invitation-only crowd outside the closed Osram Sylvania plant, which used to manufacture lighting products, Trump again called for backing away from decades of U.S. policy that encouraged trade with other nations. The approach marks a departure from the free-trade tenants of conservative orthodoxy, and has been panned by Democrats as well as the usually Republican-friendly U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which warned it would lead to millions of job losses and a recession. Trump used the factory, which closed in 2014 and moved some of the 139 jobs moved to a plant in Mexico, as an example of the human toll of trade deals like NAFTA. And he put the blame solely on his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton and her husband, former Bill Clinton, who signed the deal. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a town hall-style campaign event at the former Osram Sylvania light bulb factory, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Manchester, N.H. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) "This legacy is largely due - and you could actually say entirely due to NAFTA," he said, adding: "The real Clinton Global Initiative is their economic plan to ship America's jobs overseas." However, a spokesman for Osram said Thursday the company did not shift jobs to Mexico due to any free trade agreements, including NAFTA. Instead, spokesman Glen Gracia said, the shift was a response to declining demand for traditional lighting products that were produced at the Manchester, New Hampshire facility. Gracia said the company transferred production for those products to Juarez, Mexico, and Foshan, China. Osram still has two plants open in New Hampshire, employing about 850 people, Gracia said. The Energy Independence and Security Act, signed by President George W. Bush in 2007, is part of what led to the use of more energy-efficient lighting and caused the lower demand in products made at the Osram plant, Gracia said. Trump argued that some incentives, such as interest-free loans, that have been used to keep companies in the country are ineffective. Instead, he's proposing a 35 percent tariff on goods like car parts and air conditioners produced by companies that ship jobs overseas. "We're either going to keep 'em here or we're going to make a hell of a lot of money. It's very simple," he said. "And they're going to regret that they ever moved." Trump made the case that, while his policies would most likely lead to price increases, more and higher-paying jobs would compensate. "When you forced workers in America to compete with workers earning $1 a day overseas, our whole standard of living goes down," he said. "We're better off paying a little bit more and having jobs," he added. "It's a much better system. The way it used to be." But polling shows that the vast majority of Americans say they prefer lower prices instead of paying a premium for items labeled "Made in the USA." A recent Associated Press-GfK poll found that, when asked to choose between $50 pants made in another country or an $85 pair made in the United States, 67 percent of respondents chose the cheaper pair. Only 30 percent would pony up for the more expensive American-made goods. Asked during the question-and-answer session whether he would push for a cultural change to that calculus, Trump embraced the idea. "Our people should have more pride in buying made in the USA," he said. Democratic groups were quick to point out that Trump's own clothing line, including shirts, ties and cologne, is manufactured in countries like Mexico, China, and Bangladesh. Trump has said in the past that current conditions make it "almost impossible for American companies to compete." Critics have taken issue with Trump's portrayal of trade as the ultimate boogeyman. While it's true that manufacturing is in rapid decline with 4.5 million manufacturing jobs lost since NAFTA took effect in 1994 it's not easy to assign blame. In a report last year, the Congressional Research Service concluded that NAFTA's effect on the nation's economy "appears to have been relatively small." Technology is likely the bigger culprit for job losses; robots and other machines make it possible to produce more with fewer workers. Levying tariffs would probably require congressional approval and could set off a trade war. Trump was also asked questions on other topics. One came from a man who said he was opposed to "wasting" military efforts in the Middle East on behalf of "Zionist Israel." Trump, who has sometimes been slow to shut down provocative questions, was quick to call Israel as a "very important ally" and vowed "to protect them 100 percent." He also received a question from a woman who argued that more veterans should be put in charge of border security and the TSA. Why not "get rid of all the 'heejabies' they wear at TSA?" the woman, who gave her name as Cathie Chevalier, asked apparently referring to hijabs worn by some Muslim women. "I've seen them myself." "I understand," Trump told her. "And we are looking at that. We're looking into a lot of things," he said. __ Colvin reported from Washington. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a town hall-style campaign event at the former Osram Sylvania light bulb factory, Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Manchester, N.H. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) OD victim's mom: Tunnel suspects 'heroes' for rescue attempt GLEN LYON, Pa. (AP) The mother of a woman whose overdose death in New York City spurred a rescue attempt by three people arrested with a cache of weapons near the Holland Tunnel said the suspects are heroes for trying to help. John Cramsey, Dean Smith and Kimberly Arendt, all from Pennsylvania, were arrested June 21 as they prepared to enter the tunnel in a truck carrying weapons, including a shotgun, five handguns, and a semi-automatic, military-style rifle. Cramsey, whose daughter died of a heroin overdose in February, had posted online he was heading to New York to "rescue" a 16-year-old girl whose friend had overdosed. Mandy Powell, of Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania, identified her daughter, 20-year-old Sierra Schmitt, as the overdose victim. "Kudos to them that they tried to save these girls. There should be more people like that out there. They are heroes, not convicts. If I ever get to see them or meet them, I'd thank them," Powell told The Citizens' Voice of Wilkes-Barre (http://bit.ly/29eK4Xd). Powell said she believes her daughter was given a lethal dose of heroin. She said she had warned her daughter about her lifestyle. "She always lived life on the edge. I warned her. I told her everybody is not her friend," Powell told the newspaper. The cause and manner of Schmitt's death remains under investigation, said Julie Bolcer, spokeswoman for the New York City Medical Examiner's Office. Cramsey, of Zionsville; Smith, of Whitehall; and Arendt, of Lehighton, are charged with several weapons offenses, but their attorneys have said the police search was illegal. They all remain jailed on $75,000 bail. ___ Minnesota dentist Walter Palmer paid an estimated $50,000 to kill Cecil after the lion wandered out of the protected range in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and into range of Palmers bow and arrow. Photo by Brent Stapelkamp/500pix Prime 13.3K shares David Cote, CEO of Honeywell, a company in the top tier of the Fortune 500, shot a white rhino and had parts of the prehistoric-looking animal made into two vases, an ashtray, and an ice bucket. Hows that for treating the natural world as your playground and reducing one of the most magnificent animals on the planet into an array of frivolous decorative items for your home? On his trips to Africa, perhaps on the dime of Honeywell and possibly delivered there courtesy of the company plane, Cote also shot leopards and even some captive animals, including an endangered Bontebok and a black wildebeest. He didnt restrict his killing to the southern hemisphere he pursued and killed lots of animals in the top half of the world, from Alaska to Russia. Hes hardly the only fat cat to use his wealth and privilege to spread suffering and death. Jimmy John Liautaud, CEO of the eponymous fast-food company, has killed enough animals to fill a museum including a rhino, an African elephant, a leopard, and even a hyena. He also shot a lynx and a wolf. He had a compatriot in former GoDaddy CEO Bob Parsons, too. In 2006 alone, SCI records show Parsons killed a kudu, an eland, a bushbuck, and a grysbok in Zimbabwe and even bison in the United States. In 2011, he posted a video of himself killing an elephant a hunt that could have cost him up to $500,000. But these guys are all pikers compared to Thomas J. Hammond, founder of Flagstar Bank, which in 2012 paid a $133 million settlement for predatory and fraudulent mortgage lending practices. Hammond has killed at least 13 African lions, 11 elephants, five leopards, and even a highly endangered cheetah, among thousands of other animals. In all, he claims hes killed 314 different species. Theres a fellow who values biodiversity as his own personal grab bag. Today, on the eve of the one-year anniversary of the slaying of Cecil the lion an act that inadvertently threw back the curtain on the perverse subculture of high-price competitive trophy hunting with the United States as the top importer The HSUS and Humane Society International release a report that reveals trophy huntings terrible foothold within the United States. Its a realm filled with thousands of people pursuing the biggest animals in the world, in order to get into the record books, by killing enough animals to qualify for the grand slams and inner circles that secure their place in the Safari Club Internationals pantheon of trophy hunting. The SCIs awards include the Africa Big Five, Bears of the World, Cats of the World, and Introduced Trophy Game Animals of North America, which essentially requires the trophy hunter to shoot dozens of captive animals on American canned hunting facilities. We had our cameras rolling at the SCI convention in Las Vegas earlier this year to get the unfiltered views of the trophy hunters and the guides and outfitters who are known to all but guarantee a successful hunt, in what is known in the industry as a no kill, no pay arrangement. Walter Palmer paid an estimated $50,000 to kill Cecil after the lion wandered out of the protected range of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and into range of Palmers bow and arrow. Trophy hunters may pay even more for an elephant or a rhino, or a little less for a leopard or a Cape buffalo. Drawing an estimated 25,000 trophy hunting enthusiasts, the SCI convention displays taxidermied lions, wolves, leopards, bears, elephants, mountain goats, and other creatures as killer porn bait for these bloodthirsty gents. Around 500 trophy hunting outfitters are on hand to book sales well into 2018. The annual convention is a major source of income for SCI. According to its financial statement for 2014, 62 percent of SCIs $23.8 million in revenue was generated by that years convention a large chunk of this was from auctioning off hunts to a host of willing bidders. Our cameras captured the guides and outfitters saying some pretty extraordinary things. A representative of Hallamore Hunts noted, The problem with lion, isnt to get him to eat the bait, hes gonna eat the bait. Problem is, does he have a nice mane? A person with Swanepoel Safaris noted that captive lion hunting is a major industry in South Africa, with probably 1,000 lions being shot there each year by hunters. In South Africa theyre so, so affordable. Thirty thousand dollars, you can shoot a hell of a big lion, you know. Just like the factory farms or commercial seal killing that are the targets of other HSUS and HSI campaigns, these activities are so removed from daily experience that most of us hardly realize that they are occurring. Thats why the image of the grinning Walter Palmer and his guide over the slain Cecil came as such a jolt it looked perfectly cruel and bizarrely colonial. With todays report, we remind the world that there are plenty of Walter Palmers still creating mayhem at the edges of the social grid. It will be made tougher now with U.S. restrictions, successfully petitioned for by The HSUS, Humane Society International and our partners, on the import of African lion trophies. And the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has not permitted the import of elephant trophies from Tanzania and Zimbabwe since 2014. But its still not enough to put a stop to this trophy hunting madness. Only shining a light on the participants, and passing stricter laws in the range countries, importing countries, and right here in the United States, can stop them from killing so many of the planets most majestic creatures for ego, for awards, and for a deep-seated instinct to dominate, kill, and acquire. It just fuels the outrage, on top of that, to see that these people have the audacity to try to excuse their selfish, life-nullifying acts as generous act of conservation. Anybody who sees what they do, and the trail of destruction they leave, knows better. California governor denies parole for ex-Mexican Mafia chief SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) Gov. Jerry Brown again blocked parole Thursday for a former leader of the Mexican Mafia prison gang who now helps law enforcement, discounting claims that the double murderer intended to enter the federal witness protection program. The governor similarly rejected parole for Rene "Boxer" Enriquez last year after concluding he is at risk of being killed if he is freed. His release also would endanger those around him who might be caught in the crossfire, the governor said in his latest decision. "He remains an active target for the Mexican Mafia and there are many who would go to great lengths to attack Mr. Enriquez because of his high-profile status as a gang dropout," Brown wrote. FILE - This April 17, 2015 file photo from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation shows Rene "Boxer" Enriquez. Gov. Jerry Brown is again blocking parole for Enriquez, a former leader of the Mexican Mafia prison gang who now helps enforcement. Brown says Enriquez is at risk of being killed if he is freed. Enriquez has been in prison since 1993 serving a sentence of 20 years to life for two murders, multiple assaults and drug trafficking conspiracy.(AP Photo/California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.) Enriquez said earlier this year that he would enter the federal witness protection program if he is released. But Brown said there is no evidence he has actually been accepted into a state or federal program or that other steps would be taken to conceal his identity or location. Enriquez, who turns 54 next week, has been in prison since 1993 serving a sentence of 20 years to life for two murders, multiple assaults and drug trafficking conspiracy. He drew attention last year when the Los Angeles Police Department cleared a downtown building so he could speak to law enforcement and business leaders about the secretive prison gang that has grown into a transnational criminal enterprise. Enriquez testified at his February parole hearing that he quit the gang in 2002 when he realized members were killing children and innocent relatives of gang members who fell into disfavor. "I was becoming this unsavory rat, this informant, this turncoat, this stoolie," he said, noting that it "was like committing suicide ... renouncing everything" when he turned his back on his former colleagues. He later published a tell-all book, "The Black Hand," using a nickname for the gang also known by its Spanish language initial, La Eme. Brown praised Enriquez's cooperation with law enforcement but said Enriquez continues to blame the gang for his own choices. "He personally molded and shaped the Mexican Mafia's expectations of its members and expanded the gang's reach outside the prison," Brown wrote. "Mr. Enriquez made a career of sophisticated gang warfare." He not only smuggled large amounts of drugs into prison but pioneered a way to control a vast network of drug dealers and gang members outside the prison walls, Brown wrote. "The governor's wrong, and we're going to keep fighting until we get Rene home," said Enriquez's attorney, Michael Beckman. Enriquez has been cooperating with authorities for 14 years, earning more than 60 letters of support from the FBI, local law enforcement officials, and state and federal prosecutors. But the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office opposed his parole request, and relatives of his victims testified that his cooperation cannot take away their pain. The government has made extraordinary efforts to protect him, once booking him into custody with a false name under the pretext that he was arrested for possessing a swordfish without a license. Enriquez joined the Mexican Mafia while serving his first adult prison sentence for a series of robberies. After his release, he killed two gang associates for violations like stealing drugs and money. He and another man also stabbed Mexican Mafia leader Salvador "Mon" Buenrostro 26 times with inmate-made weapons in a 1991 gangland dispute, though Buenrostro survived. "The Mexican Mafia, it's a violent entity. It feeds on violence. It necessitates violence in order to bolster its reputation," Enriquez said in February, noting that he embraced the violent lifestyle and "enjoyed the sense of power." YouTube star Calum McSwiggan charged over West Hollywood assault claim A British YouTube personality who claimed he was assaulted near a gay club in West Hollywood has been charged with filing a false police report. Calum McSwiggan, from London, said he suffered three broken teeth and required six stitches to his head after being attacked by three men in the early hours of Monday. The 26-year-old, who has more than 62,000 subscribers on YouTube, shared details of the alleged incident on Instagram with a picture of him in a hospital bed. British YouTube personality Calum McSwiggan posted a picture to Instagram after he was arrested (Calum McSwiggan/PA) Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said officers investigated McSwiggan's report and were "unable to substantiate the assault". "Mr McSwiggan, who had no visible injuries, was subsequently arrested after deputies observed him vandalising a car in the 8900 block of Santa Monica Boulevard," the statement added. The sheriff's department said McSwiggan then began "injuring himself" with a payphone after he was placed in a cell at West Hollywood station. Medical staff were called and he was taken to hospital for treatment, it added. A photograph of McSwiggan was released by police, which they said was taken before he was seen hurting himself. A spokesman for the sheriff's department confirmed he had been charged with filing a false police report. In a Facebook post, McSwiggan acknowledged he hit himself with the phone which caused the injury that required stitches, but insisted he was attacked by three men. "Many people are trying to discredit my story but this is the full and entire truth," he wrote. "Just because there were no visible marks on my face does not mean I was not attacked. Being accused of being a liar and being called a disgrace to the LGBT+ community, a community I've dedicated my life to, is more painful than any hate crime could ever be." McSwiggan, who was in California for the online video conference VidCon, is known to his followers on YouTube for discussing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues. In his Facebook post, McSwiggan said he attended court on Wednesday. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 19, according to reports. 'Windows rattled' as small earthquake hits Manchester Manchester has been hit by an earthquake - though not too many people seem to have felt it. Although only measuring a magnitude of 1.4 on the Richter scale, experts from the British Geological Survey (BGS) confirmed that sensors picked up the tremor in the Cheetham Hill area at 8.58pm on Wednesday after being contacted by residents. Experts say the quake was around 3km below the Earth's surface. Experts say that on average 200-300 earthquakes are recorded in the UK each year The BGS confirmed that following the tremor, they received two separate reports from residents who had experienced it not far away in Middleton. David Galloway from the BGS, who is based in Edinburgh said: "An earthquake of that size normally wouldn't be felt. We weren't expecting any reports. It was nothing like on the scale of the earthquakes in Manchester in 2002 where there were hundreds felt, the largest I believe was 3.2 over the period of three or four months. Quite a lot of earthquakes were felt in the area." He said that on average 200-300 earthquakes were recorded in the UK each year, with the most active areas being in north-west Scotland and the Welsh borders. However, only one or two are felt each month by members of the public because they are so small. Mr Galloway added: "A person who contacted us reported that their windows rattled and the other said they felt their house shake. They will have felt their house shake gently because it's not being felt strongly, but they did feel something." Beck Godfrey, 36, from Middleton was one of the few who did feel the shudder. She took to Twitter after feeling the tremor whilst watching repeats of Coldplay at Glastonbury and sai d she felt "a big shake". Mrs Godfrey described it: "Like a thud or band. Thought a car may have crashed outside but we looked and all fine. Me and my husband looked at one another and I said 'was that an earthquake?'. "We both agreed it probably was something like that. I immediately looked on Twitter but nothing was reported until this morning." It is not the first time the couple have experienced an earthquake. They said they were woken by a quake several years ago when living in nearby Failsworth. The largest earthquake to be recorded in the UK was in the North Sea off East Anglia in June 1931, which had a magnitude of 6.1. Takata boss says he'll step down once "new regime" is in place By Maki Shiraki and Naomi Tajitsu TOKYO, June 28 (Reuters) - Takata Corp's chief executive said he will resign after a "new management regime" is found, finally bowing to calls for change so that the auto parts supplier can move ahead in dealing with a multi-billion dollar airbag recall. Takata, one of the world's largest suppliers of auto safety equipment, has been searching for a financial backer to help it overhaul the business and carry ballooning costs. The Japanese firm's airbag woes first emerged in 2008 but its troubles have grown over the past three years as fatalities linked to its inflators rose and recalls mounted to the point where some analysts have questioned its future. CEO Shigehisa Takada - a quiet, bookish presence in contrast to his gregarious, hands-on father who previously led the company - is the first member of the founding family to take public responsibility. He apologised for the scandal last year, but has also defended the company's products. "I am not clinging to this. My role is to make sure the company does not take a bad turn until there is a passing of the baton," he told an annual shareholders meeting, where he came under fire for failing to deal more effectively with the crisis. News of his planned exit sent Takata's shares surging as much as 10 percent although they later pared gains to finish 2 percent higher. At times barely audible when answering investor questions, Takada said details of the management changes would be determined by a third-party committee enlisted to oversee the company's restructuring. That committee, which has brought in investment bank Lazard, said last month said it would reform governance and resolve cost issues surrounding the recall. As many as 30 potential investors have indicated initial interest in providing support for the company and a solution is expected by November, people with knowledge of the discussions have said. Addressing shareholders, the shy and often awkward Takada often mumbled, apologising for his inadequate responses. Takada is the third-generation leader of the company, which began in 1933 as a textiles maker in central Japan, before expanding into seatbelts in the 1960s. He became president in 2007 and has been at the helm of the company since the 2011 death of his father, Juichiro, who built up the group. Battered by the crisis, Takata posted its third annual loss in four years in the past financial year and has seen its shares tumble some 90 percent since early 2014. It is struggling to supply enough replacement inflators, as roughly 100 million have been classified as defective due to the possibility that they may explode violently after prolonged exposure to hot conditions. Takata's recall costs have so far been comparatively small as automakers have borne most of the burden, but it is widely expected to shoulder much more. British PM Cameron vows action on hate crime after rise in incidents post-Brexit LONDON, June 29 (Reuters) - Prime Minister David Cameron promised on Wednesday to clamp down on hate crime in the wake of a spike in racially motivated incidents since Britain voted to leave the European Union which have spread fear among ethnic minority groups. Muslim and Eastern European communities have reported a spate of incidents across the country after last week's Brexit vote, which followed a campaign in which immigration had played a key role. Dozens of people have reported being abused and told to "go home" in the street, offensive leaflets have been distributed and graffiti daubed on a Polish community centre in London. Police said online reports of hate crime incidents had risen by 57 percent. "We will not tolerate hate crime or any kind of attacks against people in our country because of their ethnic origin," Cameron told lawmakers who repeatedly asked him to provide support to EU nationals living in Britain. Cameron said he had reassured European leaders at a meeting in Brussels on Tuesday night after they had expressed concern about what they had heard was happening in Britain. Critics accuse some in the "Leave" campaign of having stoked xenophobia and racism as part of a message that exiting the bloc would allow Britain to regain control of its borders and stop uncontrolled immigration, which many Britons blame for putting pressure on jobs and public services. A week before the vote, opposition Labour lawmaker Jo Cox, a strong supporter of staying in the EU, was shot and stabbed to death in her constituency in northern England. Home Office (interior ministry) minister Karen Bradley said extra funding would be provided to tackle hate crime, to boost reporting of offences and to provide security at potentially vulnerable institutions. "In recent days we have seen far-right groups engaged in organised marches and demonstrations sowing division and fears in our communities," Bradley said. "We have also seen far-right groups broadcasting extreme racist and anti-Semitic ideology online along with despicable hate speech posted online following the shocking death of our colleague Jo Cox." Labour home affairs spokesman Andy Burnham said since last week there had been reports of a fivefold increase in race hate comment on social media channels, and there had been already been a "rising tide" of hate crime. Follow the rules on banks, EU tells Italy, Brexit no excuse By Francesco Guarascio BRUSSELS, June 29 (Reuters) - Germany and the European Commission told Italy on Wednesday to follow the rules after Italy made preliminary plans to prop up its banks in the wake of volatility caused by Britain's vote to leave the European Union. Rome says it is concerned that Italian banks, which hold 360 billion euros ($400 billion) of bad loans, a third of the euro zone's total, risk attack by hedge funds betting that market turmoil could tip them into full-blown crisis. Banking and government sources said Italy was preparing to protect its banking industry by requesting more flexibility from the EU on both public spending and state aid for its lenders. The Italian initiative did not go down well in Germany, the main contributor to the EU budget and a staunch supporter of fiscal discipline and strict rules. "On the banking union we established specific rules as far as the winding down of banks, the recapitalisation of banks is concerned," German Chancellor Angela Merkel told a news conference after a summit of EU leaders in Brussels, the first after Brexit. "We can't come up with new rules every two years," she said, replying to a question about Italy's requests. Merkel's comments came after an EU official told Reuters that the Commission, which is in charge of competition policies and financial rules, stood ready to support the banking sector in Italy but did not give its backing to Rome's plans. "The Commission is ready to help but so far it has not been convinced by what has been proposed by Italy," the official said. EU rules allow member states to provide financial help to banks only in case of an exceptional situation. "Can the Italians really prove that there is a systemic problem caused by the British vote? I don't know," the official said. "There is a special impact on the banks, this is true, but everyone in the world has been affected, not only Italy." Italy's Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said he was confident that under existing rules the government would be able to ensure that citizens' bank savings were protected. He insisted there was no emergency situation to face in the Italian banking sector and that Italy was not asking to change existing rules. "The question of our banks is not on the agenda, no-one is asking to change the rules," he told reporters after the summit. On Tuesday, Renzi had met Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker and vice president Valdis Dombrovskis, who takes control of EU financial services in July after British commissioner Jonathan Hill quit last week, and discussed the impact of Brexit on the Italian banking sector. Renzi also said he believed a bank rescue fund Italy set up with private investors this year can be capitalised further. The Atlante fund was set up to help banks raise money to boost their capital and shift some of bad debts. Two such capital hikes have already used up a large part of its firepower. The official showed caution towards a new bank-led initiative in Italy: "The question is who will put the money in. At some point the possibility of the banking system will be exhausted. There are limits." A Commission spokeswoman said on Wednesday that the EU executive is "closely monitoring market developments in the European Union, including in Italy". Obama urges Venezuela to respect democratic process OTTAWA, June 29 (Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama on Wednesday urged the Venezuelan government to respect the democratic process and the rule of law, including allowing the release of political prisoners. "Given the very serious situation in Venezuela and the worsening plight of the Venezuelan people, together we're calling on the government and opposition to engage in meaningful dialogue and urge the Venezuelan government to respect the rule of law and the authority of the national assembly," Obama said at a news conference with the leaders of Canada and Mexico. Six Honduran police officers indicted on U.S. drug charges By Nate Raymond NEW YORK, June 29 (Reuters) - Six members of the Honduran National Police were indicted on Wednesday on U.S. charges they participated in drug trafficking activities and conspired with a son of former Honduras President Porfirio Lobo to import cocaine into the United States. The indictment, filed in federal court in Manhattan, said the officers agreed to take bribes to help two informants posing as drug traffickers transport a multi-ton load of cocaine through Honduras so it could be sent to the United States. The two informants, who worked on behalf of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, were introduced in 2014 to the six officers by Fabio Lobo, a son of the former Honduran president, the indictment said. Lobo, who prosecutors said agreed to provide the informants with security and logistical support in the purported drug deal, was arrested in 2015 in Haiti and pleaded guilty in May to conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. The case comes amid efforts in Honduras to clean up the country's 12,000-strong police force, which has long been accused of working with criminal gangs in the poor Central American country. Omar Rivera, a member of a special Honduran commission with authority to investigate corruption and dismiss or suspend members of the national police, welcomed the indictments. "Police who dedicate themselves to protecting drug traffickers, who dedicate themselves to the drug trade, aren't police but criminals and they should be treated as such," he said in an interview, adding that U.S. law enforcement collaboration is "fundamental" to resolving these cases. According to U.S. prosecutors, certain members of the Honduran National Police from 2004 to 2014 received bribes from drug traffickers for access to information about ongoing probes and military and law enforcement checkpoints. Prosecutors noted that the Honduran government had recently established the special commission, which has already sanctioned several police. The six officers indicted were Ludwig Criss Zelaya Romero, 39, Mario Guillermo Mejia Vargas, 46, Juan Manuel Avila Meza, 45, Carlos Jose Zavala Velasquez, 44, Victor Oswaldo Lopez Flores, 43, and Jorge Alfredo Cruz Chavez, 39. Rivera said that Mejia Vargas has already been suspended from the police and is being investigated in Honduras for possible involvement in the 2009 murder case of a top anti-drug official, while Zavala Velasquez has been removed from the force. Lopez Flores has been suspended pending an investigation, while the fates of the other three men are expected to be resolved shortly, along with some 150 other officers under evaluation, added Rivera. Most big U.S. banks pass Fed's stress test, boosting shareholder payouts By David Henry and Patrick Rucker NEW YORK/WASHINGTON, June 29 (Reuters) - Nearly all of the largest U.S. banks are on steady enough footing to increase payouts to shareholders, the U.S. Federal Reserve said on Wednesday, with just two subsidiaries of foreign banks failing its annual stress test. The results show that big U.S. banks have not only built up significant capital since the 2007-2009 financial crisis but that management teams have largely proven the merit of their internal disaster planning to the Fed. However, the Fed criticized some elements of Morgan Stanley's capital planning process - but still allowed the bank to move ahead with plans for a $3.5 billion stock repurchase program and a quarterly dividend hike while it rectifies the issues. The regulatory thumbs up prompted a slew of announcements from banks who plan to buy back more stock or increase dividends - good news for investors who saw their banks shares hammered by Britain's vote last week to leave the European Union. The two banks that failed - Deutsche Bank Trust Corporation and Santander Holdings USA, which are subsidiaries of Deutsche Bank AG and Banco Santander SA - have also failed in the past. "Broad and substantial weaknesses" persist in their capital planning processes, the Fed said. The rejection of their capital plans - the third year in a row for Santander and the second straight year for Deutsche - means that they cannot return any profits home. (Click here to see how the banks performed: http://tmsnrt.rs/293nwd2) The Deutsche Bank unit that failed holds its transaction and wealth management businesses in the United States. The bank is consolidating its U.S. business into a new holding company on July 1 called DB USA Corp, a larger unit, which will have its capital plan reviewed by the Federal Reserve in 2018, the company said. Despite their failures, Deutsche and Santander have improved, a senior Fed official said on a call with reporters. On a quantitative basis, all 33 banks that participated in the Fed's stress tests this year easily passed minimum capital requirements. Those banks have more than doubled their capital since the crisis, adding more than $700 billion in common equity capital from the beginning of 2009, according to the Fed. While the Fed's stress tests are only hypothetical scenarios and the evaluations are subjective, the process is forcing banks to be better prepared for real life events. Market turmoil that followed the British referendum last week is a good example, said Mike Alix, a bank consultant at PricewaterhouseCoopers and a former supervisory official at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. "The benefits of CCAR are an absolute rise in capital ratios and risk management," said Alix. The Fed's checks on the quality of risk management and capital planning "are driving improvements in governance, infrastructure and controls" at the banks, he added. SECOND CHANCES At least one bank each year has failed to have its capital plan approved since the Fed began issuing pubic verdicts in 2012. Those that have failed in the past, including Ally Financial Inc and Citigroup Inc, passed this year, as did those that previously received "conditional" approvals, like Bank of America Corp. Morgan Stanley's conditional approval on Wednesday was the result of "material weaknesses" in the way it designs and models stressful scenarios. Morgan Stanley has until Dec. 29 to resubmit its capital plan and rectify those shortcomings. Although the Fed said the problems deserve attention, they were not substantial enough to undermine Morgan Stanley's quantitative stress test success. The bank would still produce a ratio of high quality capital to assets of at least 7.7 percent in severely adverse scenario, well above the regulatory minimum. Morgan Stanley's announcement on Wednesday afternoon that it would repurchase up to $3.5 billion of additional common stock was above the average analyst estimate of $2.8 billion, according to FactSet StreetAccount. It also said it would raise its quarterly common stock dividend to 20 cents, above the 18-cent analyst estimate. Morgan Stanley shares rose 0.8 percent to $25.43 in after-hours trading. Several other banks that passed the Fed's test, including JPMorgan Chase & Co, Bank of America, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs Group Inc and Wells Fargo & Co, also said they would buy back more stock or increase dividends. The results, from a process known as CCAR, come after the Fed released results of a separate stress test, dubbed DFAST, last week. CCAR is a more nuanced examination, in which the Fed models unique circumstances for each individual bank, and can fail banks for the way they go about capital planning as well as whether they technically pass a numerical threshold. Japan plans July fighter jet tender seen worth $40 bln as China tensions simmer By Siva Govindasamy SINGAPORE, June 30 (Reuters) - Japan will launch a tender for fighter jets as soon as mid-July, the Ministry of Defence said, in a deal seen worth up to $40 billion as Tokyo seeks to bolster its air defences amid creeping tension with China over disputed maritime borders. In one of the biggest fighter jet contracts up for grabs in years, a ministry spokesman said Japan will contact foreign and domestic defence contractors soon after a July 5 deadline for expressions of interest in the tender for about 100 warplanes. People familiar with the matter said U.S. firms Boeing Co and Lockheed Martin Corp have been invited to take part in the project, dubbed the F-3 fighter jet programme, alongside Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd (MHI) , the prime domestic contractor. A final decision is likely in summer 2018, the people said, with deployment due at the end of the 2020s at the earliest. They declined to be identified because the matter was confidential. With a value seen by these people at up to $40 billion, the F-3 programme will dwarf most recent fighter jet deals in value, likely attracting global contractor interest. But analysts say Japan's preference for an aircraft that can operate closely with the U.S. military, given close Washington-Tokyo ties, makes a non-U.S. option a long-shot. The project launch comes as Japan seeks a plane to maintain air superiority over China, now asserting itself in regional maritime disputes. China's warplanes still lag aircraft used by the U.S. and its allies, but Beijing has been building its capability, military experts say, fuelling Japan's more muscular security agenda under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Touted as a replacement for existing Mitsubishi F-2 multi-role fighter jets, the new home-grown aircraft will operate alongside Lockheed F-35 fighters that Japan has on order, as well as Boeing F-15Js jets that it is upgrading. A spokeswoman for MHI said the company doesn't comment on individual projects. IMPORTS VS. HOME PRODUCTION Japan is open to importing existing fighter jets directly from Western suppliers, producing them under licence at home, like the F-15Js, according to the people familiar with the matter. "We are certainly interested in another potential opportunity to bolster our longstanding partnership with Japan," Lockheed Martin told Reuters via email. "We look forward to learning more about Japan's F-3 plans as discussions progress." Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Japan has a long-standing interest in acquiring a twin-engined stealth aircraft with long-range capability and internally-stowed missiles, according to the people with knowledge of the F-3 programme. The only aircraft now in service that meets those requirements is Lockheed's F-22 - but that jet is no longer in production and the U.S. has not made it available for export despite Tokyo's interest. That makes Japan more likely to design and make the F-3 fighter at home, according to the people with knowledge of the matter, ramping up the project's cost. High development costs could be a barrier for Japan as it weighs its national budget, though its move to lift a decades-long ban on arms sales last year could potentially pave the way for future export sales to ease the cost burden. Beyond Boeing and Lockheed, other potential partners include the Eurofighter consortium - a European joint venture between Airbus Group, BAE Systems PLC and Leonardo Finmeccanica SpA that produces the Typhoon fighter jet - and Sweden's Saab AB, which recently unveiled the latest variant of its Gripen warplane. On behalf of the Eurofighter consortium, an Airbus Defence and Space spokesman said, "We are in regular contact with Japan and Japanese industry to discuss our capabilities and potential collaboration opportunities." A Saab spokesman said the company was unable to comment on the tender. China risks 'outlaw' status if it rejects South China Sea ruling -lawyer By David Brunnstrom and Matt Spetalnick WASHINGTON, June 29 (Reuters) - An international ruling next month is expected to deprive China of any legal basis for its claim to most of the South China Sea, and Beijing risks being seen as an "outlaw state" unless it respects the outcome, the Philippines' chief lawyer in the case said on Wednesday. In an interview with Reuters, veteran Washington attorney Paul Reichler expressed confidence that the Permanent Court of Arbitration, based in The Hague, would rule in Manila's favor on July 12 in a highly charged case against Beijing, which rejects the tribunal's jurisdiction and says it will ignore the ruling. The Philippines, a close U.S. ally, is contesting China's historical claim to about 90 percent of the South China Sea, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes. Several Southeast Asian states have overlapping claims in the sea, and the dispute has sparked concerns of a military confrontation that could disrupt global trade. Reichler, who heads Manila's legal team in the 3-1/2-year-old case, said he was not privy to the ruling and did not expect to be informed until the last minute. But he had little doubt that Manila would win the legal argument, matching the consensus in Washington and most major foreign capitals. "We are confident we will have success on the merits," said Reichler, who called the case potentially one of the most far-reaching to be decided by the court. He spoke just hours after the court announced the date for its ruling. China bases its South China Sea claim on a "Nine Dash line" stretching deep into the maritime heart of Southeast Asia and covering hundreds of disputed islands and reefs, rich fishing grounds and oil and gas deposits. Reichler said a ruling against Beijing "would deprive China of any legal basis for making such a claim." Manila argues that China's claim violates the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea and restricts its rights to exploit resources and fishing areas within its exclusive economic zone. On Wednesday, China said Manila's approach flouted international law and Beijing would not accept any third-party decision on the issue. Reichler said for China to reject the ruling meant it had "essentially declared themselves an outlaw state" that did not respect the rule of law. Reichler is an international lawyer with a reputation for representing small countries against big powers, including a 1980s case by Nicaragua that accused the United States of funding right-wing Contra rebels against a left-wing government. Amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, Reichler said "nobody wants or should even contemplate the use of force." He predicted China would face pressure to abide by the ruling from other rival claimants, including Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia, despite signs that some other Southeast Asian countries are wavering in response to U.S. efforts to forge a unified regional front. "It may be that in time ... the Chinese will come to realize that they have more to lose than to gain from creating a chaotic, lawless situation," he said. China has accused the United States of "hyping" the dispute and has warned that complaints would snap back on its critics. But it has largely avoided specific threats of how it might respond to the ruling. U.S. officials are worried China may declare an air defense identification zone in the South China Sea, as it did in the East China Sea in 2013, and by stepping up its building and fortification of artificial islands. Briton indicted on weapons charges over Trump rally incident June 29 (Reuters) - A federal grand jury on Wednesday indicted a British man on weapons charges, alleging he tried to steal a gun from a policeman during a Las Vegas rally for Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. Michael Steven Sandford, 20, of England, was charged with two felony counts of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and one felony count of impeding and disrupting the orderly conduct of government business, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Las Vegas said in a statement. Sandford's federal public defenders could not be immediately reached to comment on the indictment. Sandford is scheduled to be arraigned on July 6, the attorney's office said. Sandford was initially charged in a complaint filed in federal court on June 20 with an act of violence on restricted grounds over the June 18 incident at the Treasure Island casino hotel. The complaint said Sandford told a U.S. Secret Service agent he had driven to Las Vegas from California with the goal of shooting Trump. The indictment does not accuse Sandford of plotting to kill Trump. According to the June 20 complaint, Sandford said he had been in the United States for a year and a half. Court records said he had lived in Hoboken, New Jersey. Court records said Sandford went to the Battlefield Vegas gun range to practice shooting a day before the rally, and said he had never fired a gun before. While there, he fired 20 rounds from a Glock 9mm handgun, the complaint said. Japan May industrial output falls 2.3 pct month/month TOKYO, June 30 (Reuters) - Japan's industrial output fell 2.3 percent in May, government data showed on Thursday, in a sign companies could be worried that export demand is weakening. The fall was more than a median estimate for a 0.1 percent decrease in a Reuters poll of economists. Manufacturers surveyed by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry expect output to rise 1.7 percent in June and increase 1.3 percent in July, data showed. OFFICIAL CORRECTION-FEATURE-Children face "staggeringly high" hunger in conflict-hit Central African Republic By Paula Dear BANGUI, June 30 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Clinging to her toy dog, 18-month-old Clemence Mokbem stares ahead as nurses rush past to tend to crying babies in the hot, overcrowded intensive care ward in a Bangui hospital. The toddler was taken to the main children's hospital in Central African Republic's capital by her teenage mother Anita, after successive bouts of malaria led to fever and weight loss. "I fed her but she didn't eat - she cried all night," the 16-year-old told the Thomson Reuters Foundation at the hospital. "She's had malaria a few times, but not like that." Despite suffering from malnutrition, diarrhoea and vomiting, Clemence is starting to regain her strength, having arrived at the hospital's nutrition unit weighing only 5 kg (11 lb). Across the Central African Republic, up to 30 children die every day due to malnutrition, according to aid organisation Action Against Hunger (ACF), which runs the unit. Three years of conflict have damaged many health facilities or left them empty and disrupted farming in a country where three in four people rely on agriculture to survive. Half of the population do not have enough food - a number which has doubled since last year, according to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), which said the hunger levels across the Central African Republic were "staggeringly high". "Malnutrition is a silent and a forgotten crisis affecting children in the Central African Republic," said Celestin Traore of the U.N. children's agency (UNICEF), adding that four in 10 children across the country suffer from chronic malnutrition. The election of a new president in February raised hopes of stability for Central African's population of 4.6 million, but there is little sign of a downturn in the number of people suffering from malnutrition, said ACF country head Eric Besse. "We are saving lives ... but to change things we can't think of malnutrition just as a health problem," Besse said. "There are still stakeholders fighting or just looting and attacking villages to gain terrain. People are still displaced every day, and half of the population are still starving." HUNGER AND DEATH Central African Republic descended into chaos in March 2013 when mainly Muslim Seleka fighters seized power, triggering reprisal attacks by Christian anti-balaka militias. A fifth of the population is still displaced having fled their homes due to violence, and the country remains largely divided along religious lines and controlled by warlords. While violence is more sporadic this year compared with the sustained bloodshed of previous years, insecurity has persisted since President Faustin-Archange Touadera took office in March. Renewed clashes in recent months have uprooted tens of thousands of people and restricted aid access. The numbers of children under five dying from malnutrition and disease are above emergency levels in 11 of 16 provinces, a huge spike from rates recorded before 2013, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Malnutrition stunts growth and development, makes children vulnerable to disease and accounts for nearly half of all deaths of children under five worldwide. ACF's nutrition programme coordinator Justin Kabuyaya said levels of severe acute malnutrition in Central African Republic comes just below the recognised emergency level of two percent. But some areas of the country have much higher rates of malnutrition due to several factors ranging from the impact of violence to a lack of access to markets and healthcare and mothers unable to breastfeed due to trauma, Kabuyaya said. "It's also linked to the calendar - we'll see peaks in lean times like the end of the dry season and at the beginning of the rainy season, which brings more malaria," he added. "FAILED STATE" Back at the hospital in Bangui, parents, grandparents, and other relatives wash their clothes, cook meals and even sleep within the hospital grounds while the children are treated. There is a flurry of activity as milk is handed out, and mothers queue for their quota, filing past families sitting on mats or wooden benches, waiting for news of their children. Corrine Ngombe has come with her two-year-old daughter Sara, two-week-old son Ezechiel, and sister-in-law Chantelle, who have been living in a camp for the displaced in Bangui since their home was burned down by Seleka fighters in December 2014. Sara, who passed out a few days ago from a high fever, vomits all over the floor after trying to drink some milk. The doctors diagnose her with a form of severe malnutrition that causes swelling, and say that she needs to be admitted. "We don't have a proper tent ... just a sheet that doesn't stop the rain coming in, so the kids get malaria," Ngombe said. "We have no money for a proper house, we have no house to go back to, and we have no money for food," the 32-year-old added. ACF's Besse worries about how much more instability and violence Central Africans are able to withstand. "People have coping mechanisms and they have resilience - it's always been that way. But in this last crisis, a lot of people lost the ability to build their resilience," he says. U.S. to make military deployments in Turkey 'unaccompanied' tours -sources BERLIN, June 29 (Reuters) - The United States is moving toward permanently banning families from accompanying U.S. military and civilian personnel in Turkey, reflecting worsening security conditions there, two U.S. defense sources said on Wednesday. The Obama administration in March ordered the families of U.S. military and diplomatic personnel to leave Incirlik air base, which has been used heavily in the fight against Islamic State militants, and other parts of southern Turkey. At the time, it said the move was not permanent. The move affected about 670 dependents of U.S. military personnel in southern Turkey, while 100 others in Istanbul and Ankara were allowed to stay. Now, military officials plan to designate deployments by all U.S. military and civilian personnel to Incirlik base in Adana and other sites in Turkey as "unaccompanied" tours, the sources told Reuters. The move was under consideration before Tuesday's suicide bomb attacks at Istanbul's main airport, which killed at least 41 people and wounded 239 others, the sources said. "The change reflects the continued deterioration of security conditions throughout Turkey," said one of the sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly. The change, which must still be finalized by the Defense Department, would mean that U.S. military deployments to Turkey would be reduced to one year from two, and troops would not be allowed to bring their families. The U.S. military has about 2,200 service members and civilian employees in Turkey, about 1,500 of whom are posted to Incirlik base. The change would not apply to U.S. personnel who are part of a "chief of mission" role or security cooperation team, the sources said. The 100 dependents of U.S. personnel still in Turkey would be allowed to stay once the new rules took effect and would depart through natural attrition, said one of the sources. US-led strikes pound Islamic State in Iraq, kill 250 fighters By Phil Stewart WASHINGTON, June 29 (Reuters) - U.S.-led coalition aircraft waged a series of deadly strikes against Islamic State around the city of Falluja on Wednesday, U.S. officials told Reuters, with one citing a preliminary estimate of at least 250 suspected fighters killed and at least 40 vehicles destroyed. If the figures are confirmed, the strikes would be among the most deadly ever against the jihadist group. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the operation and noted preliminary estimates can change. The strikes, which the officials said took place south of the city, where civilians have also been displaced, are just the latest battlefield setback suffered by Islamic State in its self-proclaimed "caliphate" of Iraq and Syria. The group's territorial losses are not diminishing concerns about its intent and ability to strike abroad though. Turkey pointed the finger at Islamic State on Wednesday for a triple suicide bombing and gun attack that killed 41 people at Istanbul's main airport. CIA chief John Brennan told a forum in Washington the attack bore the hallmarks of Islamic State "depravity" and acknowledged there was a long road ahead battling the group, particularly its ability to incite attacks. "We've made, I think, some significant progress, along with our coalition partners, in Syria and Iraq, where most of the ISIS members are resident right now," Brennan said. "But ISIS' ability to continue to propagate its narrative, as well as to incite and carry out these attacks -- I think we still have a ways to go before we're able to say that we have made some significant progress against them." On the battlefield, the U.S.-led campaign against Islamic State has moved up a gear in recent weeks, with the government declaring victory over Islamic State in Falluja. An alliance of militias have also launched a major offensive against the militant group in the city of Manbij in northern Syria. Still, in a reminder of the back-and-forth nature of the war, U.S.-backed Syrian rebels were pushed back from the outskirts of an Islamic State-held town on the border with Iraq and a nearby air base on Wednesday after the jihadists mounted a counter- attack, two rebel sources said. U.S. says Russian ship raised false signal in incident By Andrea Shalal BERLIN, June 30 (Reuters) - The United States on Wednesday accused Russia of deliberately displaying the wrong naval signals and interfering with a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean Sea, in the latest salvo about a June incident that both countries blame on each other. Captain Danny Hernandez, spokesman for U.S. European Command, said the Russian warship Neustrashimy (FF 777) conducted unsafe and unprofessional maritime maneuvers, which could have led to miscalculation, injury or even death. A number of Cold War-style incidents have occurred at sea and in the air in recent months, with the militaries of Russia and the United States accusing each other of dangerous actions in international waters and airspace. "This most recent incident comes on the heels of other unsafe air and naval incidents on the part of the Russian military," Hernandez said in a statement to Reuters. He said such action had the potential to unnecessarily escalate tensions between the countries. In April, the U.S. military said Russian SU-24 bombers simulated attack passes near the USS Donald Cook in the Baltic Sea. Russia and the United States blame each other for unsafe maneuvers in the June 17 incident which occurred less than two weeks after officials from the two countries met in Moscow to discuss ways to avoid incidents at sea. The Russian Defence Ministry said a U.S. destroyer approached dangerously close to a Russian ship, in what it said was a flagrant U.S. violation of rules to avoid at-sea collisions. A U.S. official countered that the Russian ship carried out "unsafe and unprofessional" operations near two U.S. ships. On Wednesday, Hernandez said the Russian ship raised the "ball-diamond-ball" signal on its mast when it was two nautical miles away from the USS Gravely, a U.S. destroyer operating in the Mediterranean with the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. That combination of simple geometric shapes is used to indicate that a ship's ability to maneuver is restricted. Russia identified its ship as the Russian Navy frigate Yaroslav Mudry. Hernandez said the Russian ship maneuvered to get closer to the Gravely, changing course and speed as the U.S. ship did, which he said showed it was not in fact restricted in its ability to maneuver, and was thus intentionally displaying a false international signal. At Pacific Alliance summit, Chile warns against isolationism By Antonio De la Jara PUERTO VARAS, Chile, June 29 (Reuters) - Member nations of Latin America's Pacific Alliance trade bloc must strengthen their relationships and keep clear of the isolationist path represented by Britain's exit from the European Union, Chile's foreign minister said on Wednesday. "At a time that seems dominated by the discord and disintegration brought by 'Brexit' and by the lamentable attack in Turkey, what we are doing is constructing realistic, flexible and pragmatic integration," Foreign Minister Heraldo Munoz said as the Pacific Alliance kicked off its summit in the scenic town of Puerto Varas. The Pacific Alliance is one of two large trade blocs in Latin America. Member nations Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru have moved to reduce trade tariffs between them since forming the bloc in 2011. The group represents 38 percent of Latin America's gross domestic product, and starting in May, 90 percent of commerce between its member states has been free of tariffs. That has piqued the interest of nations far outside the bloc, with 49 different observer states eyeing possible trade agreements with the group. The countries seen closest to becoming integrated into the bloc are Costa Rica and Panama. Argentina, a member of Mercosur, Latin America's other trade bloc, is looking to bring itself closer to the Pacific Alliance. But that nation's finance minister, Alfonso Prat-Gay, said his country's loyalties remained with Mercosur. "We have a neighborhood that we belong to and that we want to keep belonging to, and that's the Mercosur. Thus, any move is with the Mercosur," he said. Singapore bank halts London mortgage loans after Brexit as Asia lenders flag risks By Saeed Azhar and Denny Thomas SINGAPORE/HONG KONG, June 30 (Reuters) - United Overseas Bank (UOB) became Singapore's first lender to temporarily halt mortgage loans for London properties, as other Asian banks flagged potential investment risks in the wake of Britain's vote to leave the European Union. Brexit has spooked global markets and pushed the pound to multi-year lows, sparking worries about the health of a London property market that has previously attracted huge interest from Asian investors seeking stable returns. "We will temporarily stop receiving foreign property loan applications for London properties," a spokeswoman for Singapore's No. 3 lender said in an email. "Given the uncertainties, we need to ensure our customers are cautious with their London property investments". While UOB's move is a first, volatility and uncertainty since the June 23 vote about Britain's economic prospects has encouraged many Asian banks to flag potential risks of London property dealings to customers. The Singaporean dollar has gained 10 percent against the pound since the referendum, eroding the value of assets held in Britain. A raft of Asia's lenders said on Thursday they were issuing reminders to clients of the risks, though they were still offering loans for London properties. Singapore's top two lenders - DBS Group Holdings Ltd and Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp - said London mortgage loans were still available, as did Malaysian lender CIMB and Hong Kong's Bank of East Asia . "For customers interested in buying properties in London, we would advise them to assess the situation carefully before committing to their purchases as there could be potential foreign exchange and sovereign risks," Tok Geok Peng, executive director of secured lending, consumer banking group at DBS Bank said in an email. OCBC meanwhile said it was monitoring the situation carefully. At Bank of East Asia, deputy chief executive officer Brian Li told Reuters, "We will continue to provide mortgage loans to our clients, though we are warning our customers of the increased risks arising due to volatility in financial markets." "We have a reasonable exposure to London property market, but we believe the risks are manageable at this stage," Li said. NEGATIVE OUTLOOK JLL, a global real-estate consultancy, said there were 1.3 million residential transactions in 2015 in London. In a typical year, overseas investors in London make up about 15 per cent of new transactions, a percentage that rises to up to 40 per cent in central zones of the British capital. "Singapore is one of the most important markets for London residential property," said Adam Challis, Head of Residential Research, JLL UK. It did not provide a breakdown of transactions by Singaporean buyers. Other risks for Singaporean banks have been exacerbated in recent months by an economic slowdown in Asia and rising bad debts in energy-related industries. Moody's Investors Service on Thursday revised the outlook on Singapore's banks to negative from stable. This reflected the "weaker operating conditions" against the backdrop of softer regional economic and trade growth, Moody's Vice President and Senior Credit Officer Eugene Tarzimanov said. Property consultants say data on the number of properties purchased by Singaporeans in Britain is not tracked that closely. Banks do not disclose lending data for British property purchases. Analysts said Brexit could slow the sale of British properties in Asia as buyers turned cautious. "There have been London properties available for the last few months before the Brexit. The question is whether these properties can still continue to receive buyers in the short-term," said Alice Tan, head of consultancy and research at Knight Frank Singapore. China slams South China Sea case as court set to rule By Ben Blanchard and Anthony Deutsch BEIJING/AMSTERDAM, June 30 (Reuters) - An international court said it would deliver a hotly anticipated ruling in the Philippines' case against China over the South China Sea on July 12, drawing an immediate rebuke from Beijing, which rejects the tribunal's jurisdiction. The United States, which is a close ally of the Philippines and is concerned about China's expansive South China Sea claims, reiterated its backing for The Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration and urged a peaceful resolution of the dispute. Manila is contesting China's historical claim to about 90 percent of the South China Sea, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes. Several Southeast Asian states have overlapping claims in the sea and the dispute has sparked concerns of a military confrontation that could disrupt global trade. In a lengthy statement, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Manila's unilateral approach flouted international law. "I again stress that the arbitration court has no jurisdiction in the case and on the relevant matter, and should not hold hearings or make a ruling," he said. He said: "On the issue of territory and disputes over maritime delineation, China does not accept any dispute resolution from a third party and does not accept any dispute resolution forced on China." In Manila, presidential communications secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said the Philippines "expects a just and fair ruling that will promote peace and stability in the region". U.S. state department spokeswoman Anna Richey-Allen reiterated U.S. backing for the court. "We support the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea, including the use of international legal mechanisms such as arbitration." China's official Xinhua news agency said the court was a "law-abusing tribunal" that had "widely contested jurisdiction." It said the case would only worsen the dispute. "Manila fails to see that such an arbitration will only stir up more trouble in the South China Sea, which doesn't serve the interests of the concerned parties in the least," it said. DASHED LINE China's bases its South China Sea claim on a so-called "Nine Dash line" stretching deep into the maritime heart of southeast Asia and covering hundreds of disputed islands and reefs, rich fishing grounds and oil and gas deposits. A ruling against Beijing "would deprive China of any legal basis for making such a claim," Paul Reichler, the Philippines' chief lawyer in the case told Reuters. For China to reject the ruling meant it had "essentially declared themselves an outlaw state" that did not respect the rule of law, Reichler said. The Philippines argues that China's claim violates the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea and restricts its rights to exploit resources and fishing areas within its exclusive economic zone. While the territorial dispute over the South China Sea was a key issue, priority would be given to crushing Islamist militants in the Philippines, Manila's new defence minister Delfin Lorenzana told Reuters. Lorenzana's comments about his priorities will add to uncertainty about incoming Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte position on the dispute. Duterte has said he would confront Beijing but also said he would engage through dialogue. U.S. officials are worried China may respond to what is widely expected to be a negative ruling for Beijing by declaring an air defense identification zone in the South China Sea, as it did in the East China Sea in 2013, and by stepping up its building and fortification of artificial islands. U.S. officials say that beyond diplomatic pressure, the U.S. response to such moves could include accelerated "freedom-of-navigation" patrols by U.S. warships and overflights by U.S. aircraft as well as increased defense aid to southeast Asian countries. China has accused the United States of "hyping" the issue and warned in May that international complaints about its actions in the South China Sea would snap back on its critics. But it has largely avoided specific comments on how it might respond to the arbitration ruling. Tensions have spread ahead of the ruling, with Indonesia's president ordering an expansion of offshore oil exploration and commercial fishing in waters near the Natuna Islands, where Indonesian navy vessels and Chinese fishermen recently clashed. (CNN) Cancer is still the No. 2 killer of Americans . It has been for decades, and Vice President Joe Biden wants that to change now. Biden, who lost his 46-year-old son, Beau , to cancer in 2015, outlined some of the plans for the Obama administration's Cancer Moonshot initiative at a meeting at Howard University in Washington on Wednesday. Researchers and public health leaders are meeting Wednesday at more than 270 sites in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and D.C. to discuss how they could make a decade worth of progress in understanding, preventing, diagnosing and treating cancer and caring for patients in the next five years. To double the rate of progress, the vice president emphasized the need for a real "urgency of now," borrowing a phrase from the original title of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech (PDF), to fight this "godawful problem." There are 14 million new global cases of cancer a year, and if the current rate of research progress doesn't change, the rate will continue to rise precipitously, he said. Biden has spent the past year traveling the country, visiting leading cancer centers and meeting with experts to better understand what the government can do to speed up the process. As there are more than 200 distinct types of cancer, it is a disease that is incredibly complicated to treat and understand, let alone cure. And the government has been pledging to cure cancer since the Nixon administration. Then, as now, it was the No. 2 killer of Americans. "I firmly believe 50, 100, even 1,000 years from now, there will be people dying of cancer; however, I do believe that we can do better" to fight the disease, Dr. Otis Brawley , chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society, said in January when Moonshot was announced. To do better -- in addition to the government's $1 billion budget initiative and the dozens of new collaborative initiatives between agencies, nonprofits and private companies -- Biden vowed Wednesday to remove the barriers to collaboration and quick, deliberate action. "The impediment isn't the lack of the gray matter genius [of cancer researchers] and the ingenuity in terms of new drugs and new treatments, et cetera; it's all this stuff that gets in the way," Biden said. "The only thing I'm good at in government is getting things out of the way." He gave several examples of how difficult it is to collaborate in the cancer field and how hard it is for patients to navigate the current medical system to get better and more affordable life-saving care. Dozens of Moonshot initiatives aim to fix both problems. One initiative is intended to expedite researchers' access to cancer compounds. Currently, it can take a scientist up to 18 months to negotiate with each individual company to get access to material. Under the Moonshot, the National Cancer Institute will work with 20 to 30 biotech and pharmaceutical companies to speed access to these compounds through one pre-approved list. This could hasten clinical trials and give cancer patients more drug options. Patients and local oncologists have found it difficult to navigate online databases to enroll in clinical trials, Biden said. The Moonshot has created a website, trials.cancer.gov , to help people get access to cancer trials all over the country. "As advanced as we are," he added, "the idea that we can't come up with an app that accurately is able to be used that has all this data on it is surprising to me." There will be a new strategic computing partnership between the Department of Energy and the National Cancer Institute and with the Department of Veterans Affairs to use some of the country's most advanced supercomputers to analyze data from preclinical cancer models to better understand how the disease works, to develop less toxic treatments and to figure out which treatment and prevention models work. New cancer data will be available in the National Cancer Institute's Genomic Data Commons. The Food and Drug Administration is developing a program that will expedite the development of cancer drugs. And the Patent Office created a program that aims to halve the time it takes to review patent applications in select cancer therapy fields. "I don't want this to come across as 'the federal government has the answer.' We don't have the answer," Biden said. He experienced those inefficiencies firsthand with his son, who was a part of a clinical trial. Although the government spent $20 billion to get doctors and hospitals to switch to electronic record-keeping, his family had to take information by hand from the trial to another set of doctors. Billionaire behind Cancer Moonshot 2020 02:49 Though the industry did adopt electronic records through the 2009 Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act, creating several kinds of data systems, "guess what: The five systems can't talk to each other," Biden said. "We have to figure out how we can get out of your way, and you've got to figure out how you can get in each other's way more," he told the researchers. To do that, there will need to be a radical transformation in the entire culture of medical research, he argued, because the current culture "changes scientists into grant writers, discouraging risk-taking," and "stifles" progress. Join the conversation See the latest news and share your comments with CNN Health on Facebook andTwitter. Instead of rewarding scientists for the number of publications they have, teamwork and results for patients should be emphasized, he said. Research results should be made available immediately, and scientists should share what they learn with each other. Biden noted that physics and aerospace scientists do so, sharing "complex information seamlessly and ubiquitously all the time, but somehow, I guess for 100 years of tradition, not in medicine," Biden said. "It's not anybody's fault," Biden added. "We have got to fix it. We owe it to future generations to seize this moment, to move with deliberate purpose. "We are on the cusp of an awful lot of change," he said. "It's within our wheelhouse to do these things." Japan regulator approves Canon deal to buy Toshiba unit, warns on method By Junko Fujita TOKYO, June 30 (Reuters) - Japan's anti-monopoly regulator has approved Canon Inc's acquisition of Toshiba Corp's medical equipment unit, but issued a warning over the way they carried out the deal, which antitrust experts have called questionable. Toshiba, hurt by an accounting scandal and in a hurry to raise cash before closing its books for the business year that ended in March, structured the 665.5 billion yen ($6.5 billion) sale in an unorthodox way so that it could book proceeds before securing approval from regulators. Some antitrust and accounting experts at the time said the method, involving the use of a special entity and the issuance of warrants to allow Toshiba to receive cash from Canon before regulatory approval, was problematic though not illegal. The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) said on Thursday the method may be in violation of antitrust laws. However it did not issue any fine and approved the deal anyway. "Canon thought the deal would be approved without problem if they used this method," FTC official Takeshi Shinagawa told reporters. "This method should not be repeated by any companies and if they do in the future, they could get a red light." The FTC typically does not make public any warnings issued to companies over the merger process, he said. "We have made this particular warning public to show how serious we look at this method," said Shinagawa. He said the FTC approved the acquisition because it would not hurt fair competition in the medical equipment markets in Japan. Canon declined to comment. A Toshiba spokesman said the company takes the warning seriously and will comply with rules for the notification of mergers set by the FTC. Venezuela first lady's nephews U.S. drug case gets new defendant NEW YORK, June 29 (Reuters) - U.S. prosecutors have charged a new defendant accused of participating in a scheme with two nephews of Venezuela's first lady to transport a multi-hundred kilogram load of cocaine to the United States. An indictment filed on Tuesday in federal court in Manhattan accused Roberto De Jesus Soto Garcia of participating in meetings in Honduras and agreeing to facilitate the cocaine's arrival at a Honduran airport on its way to the United States. The indictment said he agreed to participate in the drug venture with, among others, Franqui Francisco Flores de Freitas and Efrain Antonio Campo Flores, who are both nephews of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's wife, Cilia Flores. The indictment charges Soto Garcia with conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States. It was unclear if he had an attorney or was in custody, and contact information could not be immediately located. The nephews' case, announced after their arrest in November in Haiti, has been an embarrassment for Maduro, who has been facing a political and economic crisis in Venezuela. Flores in January called her nephews' arrest a "kidnapping." The case is also one of a series of enforcement actions and investigations by U.S. authorities that have linked individuals connected to the Venezuelan government to drug trafficking. A U.S. law enforcement source has said the nephews met a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration informant in Honduras in October and sought help sending 800 kilograms of cocaine to the United States via an airport on the Honduran island of Roatan. The indictment against Soto Garcia said that in meetings recorded by law enforcement, he agreed to provide information about the airport's schedule, assist in the cocaine-laden aircraft's arrival, and remove drugs from the plane. The indictment said he also agreed to take steps to evade detection by Honduran customs and law enforcement. The indictment references two meetings that took place in November in Honduras, including one with Flores de Freitas. A lawyer for Campo Flores declined comment, while a lawyer for Flores de Freitas did not respond to a request for comment. Both nephews have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial. Malaysian opposition leader charged with graft over land deal, bungalow purchase KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 (Reuters) - Malaysian authorities on Thursday charged a senior federal opposition leader with two counts of abuse of power, a move government critics say is part of a crack down on those opposed to Prime Minister Najib Razak's administration. Democratic Action Party (DAP) secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, who is chief minister of the opposition-held state of Penang, was charged in the Penang Sessions court with abusing his position in approving a land deal and in the purchase of a bungalow at below market price. Lim pleaded not guilty to both charges. He was granted 1 million ringgit ($248,570) bail and must notify the high court two days before going overseas. Leaders from the Pakatan Harapan opposition pact condemned the legal action against Lim. Senior DAP leader Lim Kit Siang said it was the latest in concerted efforts "to destroy the opposition and defend Najib's political position". Azmin Ali, deputy president of opposition partner the People's Justice Party (PKR), criticised the swift action in handling Lim's case amid the "innumerable reports" lodged against Najib. The Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) said in March that it started investigating Lim after a report accused him of abusing his position by securing a two-storey bungalow on the island state at below market price in July last year. Najib is facing calls to step down over his pet project 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), which is at the centre of money-laundering probes in at least six countries including the United States, Switzerland and Singapore. Najib, who chaired 1MDB's advisory board until it was dissolved in May, also faces criticism over $681 million deposited into his personal account ahead of the 2013 general election. The prime minister has denied any wrongdoing. Kazakhstan says Salafists behind foiled attack plot ASTANA, June 30 (Reuters) - Salafists, the followers of an ultra-conservative school of Islam, were behind a planned attack foiled by Kazakh security services, the head of national security committee KNB said on Thursday. KNB said on Wednesday it had detained several members of a group which planned "terrorist acts using improvised explosive devices". One of the suspects had killed himself by detonating such a device. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, KNB head Vladimir Zhumakanov said the six detainees were Salafists, but added they had no links to those behind a deadly attack in the city of Aktobe earlier this month. In that incident, about two dozen men described by the authorities as sympathisers of Islamic State, attacked gun stores and a national guard facility, killing seven people. Security forces killed 18 attackers, some on the same day and some in the subsequent manhunt. Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev has described the Aktobe attackers as Salafists. KNB detained the latest group of suspects on June 26 in the town of Balkhash and the village of Gulshat, both in the Karaganda region of central Kazakhstan. Zhumakanov said they had planned to carry out an attack in the same province. At least 18 killed by a roadside bomb in Somalia MOGADISHU, June 30 (Reuters) - At least 18 civilians were killed when a roadside bomb went off on Thursday in Somalia's Lafole town, southwest of the capital, blowing up a packed mini-bus that was passing by, police said. Japan says Chinese military activity in East China Sea escalating TOKYO, June 30 (Reuters) - Japan's top military commander said on Thursday that Chinese military activity was escalating in the East China Sea, with a spike in emergency jet scrambles in the past three months. "It appears that Chinese activity is escalating at sea and in the air," Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, chief of the Japanese Self-Defence Forces, said at a regular press briefing in Tokyo. Japanese air force jet scrambles rose by more than 80 in the three months ending on Thursday from 114 a year earlier, he said. Detailed figures for the period will be announced next week. Oil falls on improving supply outlook, economic worries By Henning Gloystein SINGAPORE, June 30 (Reuters) - Oil prices fell on Thursday as the prospects for supply improved while the economic outlook darkened, but analysts said they still expect prices to rise in the second half of the year. Brent crude futures were trading at $50.19 per barrel at 0655 GMT, down 42 cents, or 0.83 percent, from their last settlement. U.S. crude was down 37 cents, or 0.74 percent, at $49.51 a barrel. The lower prices were a result of a higher supply outlook as well as concern over a slowing economy, compounded by Britain's vote to leave the European Union. "With a ceasefire in Nigeria and Canadian wildfires (receding) oil prices may come under pressure," ANZ bank said. "The vote to exit adds further to uncertainty in the global economy." In Asia's No.2 economy, Japan, industrial output slid in May at the fastest rate in three months to its lowest level since June 2013, in the latest sign that Asian growth is stalling. On the supply side, fears of sharp production cuts from a looming strike by Norway's oil sector eased as output from the North Sea's biggest producer would only fall by about 7 percent in case of a walk-out, according to Norway's Petroleum Directorate. In Nigeria, output has recovered by 200,000-300,000 barrels per day (bpd) since mid-June after attacks on oil infrastructure knocked out some 600,000 barrels of daily oil production to around 1.25 million bpd, down from 2 million bpd at the beginning of the year. "The government (is) optimistically aiming for a return to normal production by end-July," Goldman Sachs said. STRONGER SECOND HALF But with markets overall tightening this year, Brent has risen by over a third since the beginning of January, and by around 25 percent in the second quarter. U.S. crude prices are also up by more than a third this year. Analysts said oil prices would rise in the second half of 2016, which kicks off on Friday, as supply and demand fall into balance, ending a glut that pulled prices down by 70 percent between 2014 and early-2016. "Crude oil prices... will likely rise higher toward marginal cost, as decline rates and field shut-ins cause a larger-than-expected supply deficit by year-end," said analysts at AB Bernstein, adding they expected prices to rise to $60-$70 per barrel. U.S. crude stockpiles fell 4.1 million barrels in the week to June 24, the sixth consecutive week of drawdowns, to 526.6 million barrels, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Hungary's Richter buys Swiss biotech company Finox for $194 mln By Gergely Szakacs BUDAPEST, June 30 (Reuters) - Hungarian drugmaker Richter has acquired Swiss biotech company Finox Holding for 190 million Swiss francs ($194 million), expanding its presence in major European markets, Richter said on Thursday. The deal gives Richter, which makes gynaecological, cardiovascular and central nervous system drugs, global rights for Finox's female infertility medicine Bemfola in all markets apart from the United States. The acquisition is part of a drive by Richter to expand its global reach and reduce reliance on its single biggest market, Russia, which is hit by European Union sanctions as well as Ukraine, which is mired in an economic crisis. At 0748 GMT, Richter's shares traded 1.6 percent higher at 5,640 forints on the Budapest Stock Exchange, outperforming the blue chip index, which rose 0.7 percent. Bemfola is sold in more than 20 countries, taking in European Union member states, Israel, the Middle East and Australia. "Finox represents a unique opportunity for Richter to widen its core Women's Healthcare franchise and further emphasises its commitment to biosimilar business," a Richter statement said. "This acquisition allows Richter to establish its presence in the female fertility therapeutic area -- a major growth market." Richter said the global market for such infertility products is worth more than 2 billion euros ($2.22 billion) and is growing by about 4 percent a year, largely driven by couples waiting longer before starting a family. Chief Executive Erik Bogsch said that Richter would finance the transaction, one of its biggest acquisitions in recent years, from cash and the company expected the deal to boost its profitability from the first year. Richter will consolidate Finox from the second half of 2016, Bogsch said, adding that the deal would add 15 million euros to its revenues this year. "We expect that in two-three years' time ... we should be able to achieve in global sales roughly 80 million euros and around 80-85 percent should come from Europe, mainly western Europe," Bogsch said. Slovakia - Factors To Watch on June 30 BRATISLAVA, June 30 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Slovak financial markets on Thursday. ALL TIMES GMT (Slovak Republic: GMT + 2 hours) =========================ECONOMIC DATA======================== Real-time economic data releases.................. Summary of economic data and forecasts......... Recently released economic data................ Previous stories on Slovak data.......... **For a schedule of corporate and economic events: http://emea1.apps.cp.thomsonreuters.com/Apps/CountryWeb/#/1C/events-overview ========================EVENTS=============================== BRATISLAVA - European Commission President meets with Prime Minister Robert Fico as Slovakia takes over the rotating six-month presidency of the European Union as of July. Related stories: BRATISLAVA - Interior Minister Robert Kalinak is expected to survive a no-confidence vote in the parliament initiated by the opposition amid growing public pressure to resign over links to a company investigated for tax frauds. Related stories: =========================NEWS=============================== JAGUAR LAND ROVER: Britain's biggest carmaker Jaguar Land Rover said the short-term effects of Britain's decision to leave the European Union will not affect plans to build a new plant in Slovakia, the firm's strategy director said on Wednesday. Story: Related stories: NATO: NATO should keep its door open to countries of strategic importance, such as Ukraine, Poland's President Andrzej Duda said on Wednesday. Story: Related stories: For real-time stock market index quotes click in brackets: Warsaw WIG20 Budapest BUX Prague PX Main currency report TOP NEWS -- Emerging markets News editor of the day: Jason Hovet on +420 224 190 476 E-mail: prague.newsroom@thomsonreuters.com Don't burden Germany with Brexit costs, warn Merkel's Bavarian allies BERLIN, June 30 (Reuters) - Germany should not be burdened with the extra costs arising from Britain leaving the European Union, Bavarian Finance Minister Markus Soeder was quoted as saying on Thursday. Soeder, whose Christian Social Union (CSU) governs the southern state of Bavaria and is allied with Chancellor Angela Merkel, told Die Welt newspaper that the EU should compensate for the missing British payments into its budget by cutting costs instead. "People are saying we could face about a billion (euros) in additional contributions. We Germans need to make sure that after a Brexit the British contributions up to now are not simply transferred on to Germany and the rest of the net contributor countries," Soeder said. He also warned against shifting the balance in the bloc towards southern European states now that there are fewer North Sea members, adding that the EU's stability-orientated fiscal policy was non-negotiable. Italian calls for EU deficit and banking aid rules to be adjusted to take account of its fiscal and financial troubles following the Brexit rules should be rebuffed, he added. Stricter budget rules for the European Union countries and a downsized European Commission were part of a post Brexit reform plan for the bloc drafted by aides for German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble, according to the Handelsblatt daily. Britain's decision to leave the EU is likely to reduce German exports and reduce growth by as much as half a percentage point next year, the economic institute DIW has estimated. Russia will countenance an Assad exit in Syria, but not yet By Andrew Osborn and Christian Lowe MOSCOW, June 30 (Reuters) - Russia will countenance Syrian President Bashar al-Assad leaving office, but only when it is confident a change of leader will not trigger a collapse of the Syrian government, sources familiar with the Kremlin's thinking say. Getting to that point could take years, and in the meantime Russia is prepared to keep backing Assad, regardless of international pressure to jettison him, those sources said. Such steadfast support is likely to further complicate already stalled peace talks with Assad's opponents and sour relations with Washington which wants the Syrian leader gone. "Russia is not going to part company with Assad until two things happen," Sir Tony Brenton, Britain's former ambassador to Russia, told Reuters. "Firstly, until they are confident he won't be replaced with some sort of Islamist takeover, and secondly until it can be guaranteed that their own position in Syria, their alliance and their military base, are sustainable going forward." The Kremlin, which intervened last year to prop up Assad, fears turmoil in his absence, thinks his regime too fragile for major change, and believes there's much fighting to do before a transition, say multiple Russian foreign policy sources. Russia and the United States are co-sponsors of peace talks between the warring sides in the Syria conflict. Those talks, currently on hold, have so far carefully skirted the question of whether a peace deal would require Assad's departure, so negotiations could theoretically limp along despite the contradictions between the positions of Moscow and Washington. Moscow has signalled its support for Assad has limits. Russian diplomats have said the Kremlin is backing the Syrian state, not him personally. President Vladimir Putin has said it would be worth considering how members of the opposition could be incorporated into Syrian government structures. Such talk has fuelled Western hopes that Russia might help broker Assad's exit sooner rather than later. But sources close to the Kremlin say there are no meaningful signs Russia is ready to cut him loose anytime soon. "I don't see any changes now (in Russia's position on Assad," said Elena Suponina, a senior Middle East analyst at the Moscow-based Russian Institute for Strategic Studies, which advises the Kremlin. "It's the same and why change it?" DOUBLING DOWN On the contrary, state media, which toes the Kremlin's line, suggests Russia is instead doubling down on Assad and trying to shut down any U.S. attempts to discuss his future. Dmitry Kiselyov, presenter of the main weekly TV news show Vesti Nedeli, told viewers this month that a surprise visit to Syria by Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu was a message to Washington to stop trying to pressure Moscow over Assad. "Shoigu's visit and his meeting with Assad is a definite signal from Russia," said Kiselyov, reputed to be one of Putin's favourite journalists. "Who is it the Americans want to see in Assad's place? Nobody in Washington, including Obama, has explained." Fyodor Lukyanov, a foreign policy expert close to the Kremlin who edits the Russia in Global Affairs journal, said there had been talk inside the Russian government about Assad's future and that he thought a deal was there to be done one day. But he told Reuters Russia's current position was "wait and see", that the Kremlin wanted to first see who became the next U.S. president, and that it would need a lot of time to come up with a plausible alternative to Assad if and when it wanted to. "How do we know if we remove him the whole system is not going to collapse," said Lukyanov. "There is a risk of that." ISLAMIST THREAT The Kremlin says thousands of Russian and former Soviet citizens are fighting in Islamic State ranks and that they must be defeated in Syria and Iraq to prevent them from returning home to launch attacks. It casts Assad, whose father Hafez was a longtime Moscow ally in the Soviet era, as its chief partner in that battle. Andrey Kortunov, director general of the Russian International Affairs Council, a Moscow-based foreign policy think tank close to the Russian Foreign Ministry, said there was not a lot of sympathy for Assad personally inside Russian foreign policy circles. But he said Moscow had to position itself as an important and victorious player and that Assad was part of that equation for now. "You must remember the other side of the coin," he said. "Russia is important because it has relations with the Syrian regime so if it sacrificed that relationship it might cease to be a player." Tarja Cronberg, a Russia expert who used to be a Finnish government minister, said Russia might agree to a deal on Assad's exit that retained key parts of the state's structure and political elite while integrating opposition politicians. But finding an arrangement that combined those elements would not be easy or quick. "The question really is how to create stability and change at the same time," she said. For now, Brenton, the former British ambassador, said in the eyes of Putin and his advisers Assad's role as a bulwark against radical Islam trumped everything else. China stocks flat as Brexit rebound invites profit-taking SHANGHAI, June 30 (Reuters) - China stocks ended little changed on Thursday as investors took profits on this week's rebound after heavy selling last week triggered by Britain's vote to leave the European Union. The blue-chip CSI300 index rose 0.1 percent to 3,153.92, while the Shanghai Composite Index lost 0.1 percent to 2,929.61 points. China stocks have been largely screened from the Brexit-triggered turmoil in global markets due to its strict capital control, but after bouncing for three days in a row, traders say the rally is losing steam with no good news in sight. Sector performance was mixed. Weakness in resources, infrastructure and transportation sectors offset gains in consumer and healthcare shares. PRESS DIGEST - Bulgaria - June 30 SOFIA, June 30 (Reuters) - These are some of the main stories in Bulgarian newspapers on Thursday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy. -- Bulgaria has boosted security at the Sofia airport after the triple suicide bombing and gun attack at the airport of Turkish city of Istanbul that killed 42 people. Interior Minister Rumiana Bachvarova said there was no direct threat for neighbouring Bulgaria, but added that the country was not insured against one. (Trud, Standart, Telegraph, Monitor) -- Prime Minister Boiko Borisov demanded a clear position from the European Commission on how Bulgaria should proceed after an arbitration court ruled it must pay over 550 million euros in compensation to Russia over the canceled Belene nuclear project and whether it will back Bulgaria to become a regional gas hub that can also bring in natural gas from Russia. (Trud, Standart, Sega, Monitor, Duma, 24 Chasa) -- The parliament voted deputy mayor of Sofia, Julia Nenkova, as head of the antitrust regulator in the country, as well as new members of the commission. Analysts said the choice was rather political than based on the professional qualities of the candidates. (Capital Daily, Sega) CAPITAL DAILY - Communications firm Unify, controlled by French IT services group Atos, opened a new outsourcing accounting centre in Bulgaria and plans to bring its employees in the country to 530 people by year-end. (Capital Daily) Iran's July oil exports to fall but 70 pct higher than year ago -source By Aaron Sheldrick and Osamu Tsukimori TOKYO, June 30 (Reuters) - Iran's oil exports in July are set to fall from June levels as the country battles Saudi Arabia and Iraq for market share but are about 70 percent higher than a year ago, according to a source with knowledge of the country's crude lifting plans. Exports will be about 2.14 million barrels per day (bpd) in July, down from about 2.31 million bpd in June, the highest since January 2012, the source said. The decline is mostly attributable to a fall in condensate exports as South Korea cuts purchases of the ultra-light oil and reduced crude liftings from European customers. Iran's oil exports have nearly doubled since December, the last month before sanctions targeting its disputed nuclear programme were lifted, but it is facing ever tougher competition from its rival Saudi Arabia and neighbour Iraq. This year, "we are really seeing the triumvirate turning the screws, especially with the return of Iranian barrels after the lifting of sanctions," Matt Smith, a director of Commodity Research at ClipperData, said on his daily blog. "Exports for the three nations are averaging more than 2.3 million barrels per day higher through May year-to-date compared to the same period last year," he said. Iran has been regaining market share at a faster pace than analysts had projected since sanctions were lifted in January and exports will be above 2 million bpd for a fourth month in July. Exports to Europe in July are set to fall to about 430,000 bpd from about 580,000 bpd this month, the source said. Iran's loadings to Asia in July are about the same as this month at 1.63 million bpd, according to the source. Loadings peaked this year in April at 1.71 million bpd. Loadings for China, Iran's biggest customer, will be slightly over 654,000 bpd in July, up nearly 50,000 bpd from June. India will pick up about 480,000 bpd, the highest since March. South Korean loadings will be about half of those this month at 190,000 bpd. Japan is set to load about 235,000 bpd. Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are all loading Iranian oil, according to the source. Poland is absent this month, after making its the first purchase since last August in June. Vietnam court sentences Australian woman, 73, to death on heroin charges HANOI, June 30 (Reuters) - A court in southern Vietnam has sentenced a 73-year-old Vietnam-born Australian woman to death for trafficking heroin hidden in bars of soap, several state-run media outlets reported on Thursday. The Ho Chi Minh City People's Court found Nguyen Thi Huong guilty on Wednesday of possessing 36 bars of soap stuffed with 2.8 kg (6 lb) of heroin in her baggage as she was boarding a flight to Australia in December 2014, the Ho Chi Minh City Police newspaper said. Court officials and Australian diplomats in the city could not be reached for comment about the case. Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was "concerned that an Australian citizen has been sentenced to death in Vietnam" but added that under Vietnamese law the woman can appeal the sentence "so there is still some way to go before this legal process concludes". "We will continue to provide consular assistance and support to the woman and her family. Universal opposition to capital punishment is a long-established policy of Australian governments," a department spokesperson said in an email. The Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper and news portal tuoitrenews.vn reported that Huong had said she was given the soap as a gift by a woman, identified only as Helen, while they were on a trip to the coastal city of Vung Tau. Huong told the court she wanted to take them to Australia as gifts and was not aware of what they contained. However, the Ho Chi Minh City Police newspaper, controlled by the city's police, said Huong had failed to prove that the other woman was real. The court ruled that the offence was "extremely dangerous to the community" and found her guilty. She now faces death by lethal injection. The Tuoi Tre newspaper published a photo of Huong covering her mouth with her hands as she was taken from the court after the verdict. Huong has 15 days in which to appeal against the death sentence. Turkish army killed suspected IS militants at Syria border - security sources ISTANBUL, June 30 (Reuters) - The Turkish military killed two suspected Islamic State members trying to enter Turkey illegally at the weekend, security sources said on Thursday, including a man thought to be plotting a suicide bomb attack in Turkey. The suspected militants were "neutralised" on June 25 after refusing the army's warnings at the Syrian-Turkish border while trying to cross, the sources said. On Tuesday, three suicide bombers opened fire and then blew themselves up in Istanbul's main airport, killing 42 people in the deadliest of a series of suicide attacks in Turkey this year. The security sources said one of the suspected militants killed at the weekend, a Syrian national, had flown from Damascus to the Kurdish-controlled border city of Qamishli on June 21. They published a photo of the used boarding pass. The militant was thought to be planning a suicide attack in the Turkish capital or the southern province of Adana, home to Incirlik, a major base used by U.S. and Turkish forces through which some coalition air strikes against Islamic State are carried out. Britain to further delay decision on new runway -BBC LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - Britain is to further delay a decision on whether to build a new runway at London's Heathrow Airport until a new leader of the governing Conservative party is elected, the BBC reported on Thursday. The government had been expected to announce this summer where it planned to build new aiport capacity and Prime Minister David Cameron's spokeswoman had said on Monday that there was no change in the timetable for the decision. Cameron's government has considering for four years where to build a new runway, with Heathrow seen as the front-runner over rival Gatwick. Cameron is now set to resign by October, prompting a Conservative leadership contest. Palestinian kills teen in Israeli settlement, then shot dead - army JERUSALEM, June 30 (Reuters) - A Palestinian fatally stabbed a 13-year-old girl inside her home in a Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank on Thursday, before guards shot him dead, the military and hospital officials said. A member of the response team that killed the assailant was also wounded in the incident, said an official from the Kiryat Arba settlement, near the city of Hebron. Over the past eight months, Palestinians have killed 33 Israelis and two visiting U.S. citizens in a wave of street attacks, mostly stabbings. Israeli forces have shot dead at least 198 Palestinians, 134 of whom Israel has said were assailants. Others were killed in clashes and protests. An Israeli military spokesman said the girl was attacked in her bedroom. Hospital officials in Jerusalem said she died of her wounds, giving her age as 13. Israeli media reports identified the suspected attacker as a 17-year-old Palestinian from a village near Kiryat Arba. Malachi Levinger, chairman of Kiryat Arba's government council, said on Army Radio that a Palestinian climbed a security fence and entered a family home where he attacked the girl. "Two members of a response team exchanged fire with him. One of them was wounded and the terrorist was killed," Levinger said. Palestinian leaders say assailants have acted out of desperation over peace talks frozen since 2014 and Israeli settlement building in occupied territory that Palestinians seek for a state. Tensions over Jewish access to a contested Jerusalem holy site, revered by Muslims as Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary) and Jews as Temple Mount, have also fuelled the violence. Israel says incitement in the Palestinian media and personal problems at home have been important factors that have spurred assailants, often teenagers, to launch attacks. Washington The top GOP Senate lawmaker for education criticized accountability proposals from the U.S. Department of Education that would require summative ratings for schools, saying such a requirement is not found in the Every Student Succeeds Act and would infringe on state autonomy. Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., the Senate education committee chairman, told Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. in a hearing here Wednesday that he was also worried that the proposed ESSA accountability rules might give the department improper oversight over states content standards. And both Alexander and Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., the committees ranking member, expressed concerns the draft rules would make states and schools shift to the new law too quickly. The meeting was the first time Alexander, one of ESSAs main architects , shared concerns about specific policies in the draft ESSA accountability rules , which were released late last month. Concerns about the regulations potential to put states in a straitjacket over addressing low test-participation rates, and whether definitions of struggling subgroups of students might be too loose (one of Murrays prime concerns), also came up in the hearing, among other issues. Emphasizing his view that previous education law and Education Department decisions dictated teacher evaluations, school improvement strategies, and other matters, Alexander said, Those responsibilities have now been restored to states and local school boards and classroom teachers. In his testimony, King emphasized his departments attempts to balance the flexibility for states in ESSA while ensuring that schools and states took appropriate and research-based action to help struggling schools and groups of students. We have to make sure that these interventions translate into progress, King said. States Choices In his opening remarks and in an exchange with King, Alexander emphasized the draft rules summative-rating requirement as an example of where the department was overstepping its authority. The whole point of the law was to return to the states whether to do that or not, Alexander said of assigning schools summative ratings, adding that while states like Florida might want an A-F school rating system or something similar, Other states might not want to do it that way. (The Council of Chief State School Officers has also expressed concerns about this rating requirement.) In response, King said that states could construct those ratings in a variety of ways, and need not rely on letter grades or numerical scores. And he emphasized that such ratings were not only consistent with ESSA, but ultimately necessary in order to identify schools in need of comprehensive and targeted interventions. In order to do that, they will need a summative rating to achieve that status, King told Alexander. When Murray raised the issue of school ratings, however, she noted the balance in ESSAs language that requires schools to be measured using multiple indicators, but also the requirement to identify the lowest-performing 5 percent of Title I schools, high schools with low graduation rates, and schools with struggling subgroups. Alexander and Murray did team up to question the proposed timeline for states transitioning to ESSA. Although the first full academic year of ESSA is 2017-18, King noted that some schools would be identified for improvement for the 2017-18 school year, referring to the lowest-performing 5 percent of Title I schools and high schools with low graduation rates, among others. This part of the proposed accountability rules have made some state leaders unhappy, including Kentucky chief Stephen Pruitt, because of how it would require 2016-17 academic data to be used for interventions, and how it would make the transition to ESSA difficult and unclear for schools. Thats deeply concerning to teachers and parents around my state and around the country, Murray said. Alexander strongly urged King to consider identifying schools for improvement starting a year later, in 2018-19. King, in turn, said he was open to further input on this issue, but did stress the urgency of improving struggling schools. Worries Over Struggling Students, Standards, Testing The other primary concern for Murray was that the draft rules would allow states too much room in defining what makes a subgroup of students, like minority students or those in special education, consistently underperforming. Thats been a major concern of the civil rights community about the draft rules. States should be required to measure whether subgroups are meeting state academic goals and standards in determining which subgroups are struggling, Murray said, and not by comparing them to average statewide student peformance. ESSA was clearthe performance of every single student and every single subgroup of students matters, Murray said. King told Murray his department was open to feedback about the definition, but stressed that the regulations ensure that states identify these students in some fashion. The long-running controversy over content standards also got new life in the hearing. Alexander, along with GOP Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas, criticized the draft rules that require states to submit evidence that theyve adopted challenging content standards. Arguing that the department had in practice required states to adopt the Common Core State Standards before ESSA, the chairman questioned why the department would want to see such evidence, when the law only requires that states provide assurances about the quality of their standards. The department gave the states incentives to use the common core standards through various means, but there was no explicit mandate to do so. If the regulation makes it look like you could reject the evidence, and by rejecting the evidence you would reject the standards, why that goes around the barn door, Alexander said. (ESSA says the department cannot dictate which standards states use or incentivize them to adopt any particular set of standards.) But the requirement for evidence is subject to peer review by fellow states, King emphasized, and relates to issues such as whether a states standards are aligned with its assessments. He did not indicate any interest in having the department by itself review and reject content standards. Standards are set by states, he told Alexander. And King assured Alexander that states would have flexibility in determing how to address low test-participation rates. The draft ESSA rules give states a menu of options for dealing with schools that fall below the threshold of testing 95 percent of students, such as lowering a schools overall ratingor states can pick their own plan for addressing low participation rates and submit them to the department. The senator emphasized to King that his department has no ability to prescribe specific options ... none whatsoever for dealing with low rates. Here are a few other issues raised by lawmakers during the hearing: Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., a long-time advocate for robust federal accountability, said in his view the acccountability proposal did not go far enough in some places. Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., urged the department to rely on its guidance related to transportation costs for students in foster care, rather than whats in the draft ESSA rules. Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., bluntly asked King why his department didnt trust schools to make their own decisions about how to improve, and why he continued to push failed practices under the No Child Left Behind Act, ESSAs predecessor. King said he did trust schools, but also stressed ESSAs protections for civil rights of disadvantaged students and the sometimes-spotty history of states and districts in this area. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., asked how ESSA could improve access to advanced courses and other resources for poor and minority students. King responded that ESSAs accountability language allows states to measure such course offerings and other approaches to close what Warren called opportunity gaps. Previous Concerns from Lawmakers Its been a busy time for the secretary when it comes to ESSA oversight. Last Thursday, King gave testimony about the law to the House education committee , where several GOP lawmakers also criticized the approach to ESSA taken by the secretary and his department. Rep. John Kline, R-Minn., the committees chairman, told King he was worried the proposed accountability rules would end up requiring interventions in a larger number of schools, an outcome King said was not the departments intent. And the secretary also defended the Education Department from allegations lodged by GOP lawmakers that it was trying to improperly create definitions for language such as consistently underperforming not found in ESSA itself, among other issues. Separate from accountability, Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-Va., a possible successor to Kline as the House committee leader once the Minnesota Republican retires next year, continued the attack on the department for its proposals on regulating ESSA spending requirements. Foxx worried about the fiscal impact on districts, and asked the secretary whether his department had calculated how much the idea would cost districts. King said he did not have such a number available, but said the departments proposal was lawful and would ensure appropriate equity between schools. Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . Istanbul airport bombers were Russian, Uzbek, Kyrgyz - Turkish official By Humeyra Pamuk and Daren Butler ISTANBUL, June 30 (Reuters) - Three suspected Islamic State suicide bombers who killed 44 people in a gun and bomb attack at Istanbul's main airport this week were Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz nationals, a Turkish government official said on Thursday. The attack on one of the world's busiest airports, a hub at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, was the deadliest in a series of suicide bombings in Turkey this year. The three bombers opened fire to create panic outside, before two of them got inside the terminal building and blew themselves up. The third detonated his explosives at the entrance. A further 238 people were wounded. The official gave no further details beyond confirming the attackers' nationalities and declined to be named because details of the investigation have not yet been released. Forensics teams had been struggling to identify the bombers from their limited remains, officials said earlier. "A medical team is working around the clock to conclude the identification process," one of the officials said. Interior Minister Efkan Ala told parliament that evidence continued to point to Islamic State responsibility and that 19 of the dead were foreigners. Ala said the identity and nationality of one of the bombers had been determined but did not comment further. The pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper said the Russian bomber was from Dagestan, which borders Chechnya, where Moscow has led two wars against separatists and religious militants since the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. Turkey's Hurriyet newspaper named him as Osman Vadinov and said he had come from Raqqa, the heart of Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria. The Russian interior ministry said it was checking information about Vadinov. A spokesman for Kyrgyzstan's state security service said it was investigating, while the Uzbek security service had no immediate comment. Thousands of foreign fighters from scores of countries have crossed Turkey to join Islamic State in Syria and Iraq in recent years. Turkey has tightened security on the Syrian border but has long argued it needs more information from foreign intelligence agencies to intercept the fighters. The revelation that one of the attackers was a Russian national comes at an awkward time for relations between Ankara and Moscow, strained since Turkey shot down a Russian warplane near the Syrian border last November. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan wrote to Russian leader Vladimir Putin this week to express regret over the incident, but officials in Ankara say he stopped short of making the apology Moscow wants before it will lift economic sanctions. Nikolai Patrushev, the head of Russia's Security Council, sent a telegram to his Turkish counterpart calling for cooperation in fighting terrorism after the bombing, Russian news agencies reported. DAWN RAIDS Turkish police detained 13 people, four of them foreigners, in raids across Istanbul in connection with Tuesday night's attack. Broadcaster CNN Turk said they were accused of providing logistical support for the bombings. Counter-terrorism teams led by police special forces launched simultaneous raids at 16 locations in the city, two officials told Reuters. Yeni Safak said the organiser of the attack was suspected to be a man called Akhmed Chatayev, of Chechen origin. Chatayev is identified on a United Nations sanctions list as a leader in Islamic State responsible for training Russian-speaking militants, and as wanted by Russian authorities. Turkish officials did not confirm to Reuters that Chatayev was part of the investigation. Wars in neighbouring Syria and Iraq have fostered a home-grown Islamic State network blamed for a series of suicide bombings in Turkey, including two others this year targeting foreign tourists in the heart of Istanbul. Islamic State has established a self-declared caliphate on swathes of both Syria and Iraq and declared war on all non-Muslims plus Muslims who do not accept its ultra-hardline vision of Sunni Islam. It has claimed responsibility for similar bomb and gun attacks in Belgium and France in the past year. Turkey, a member of the NATO military alliance and part of the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State, has repeatedly fired back on the Sunni hardliners in recent months after rocket fire from northern Syria hit the border town of Kilis. In a sign of the growing threats to Turkey, U.S. defence sources said on Wednesday that Washington was moving towards permanently banning families from accompanying U.S. military and civilian personnel deployed in the country. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson said the Istanbul attack bore the "hallmark" of Islamic State and that one U.S. citizen had been slightly injured. PARLIAMENTARY PRESSURE Critics say Turkey woke up too late to the threat from Islamic State, focusing instead early in the Syrian civil war on trying to oust President Bashar al-Assad by backing even his hardline Islamist opponents, arguing there could be no peace without his departure. Turkey's main opposition leader, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, angered by the ruling AK Party's refusal to hold an inquiry into the airport attack, accused the AKP of "an ideological kinship" with Islamic State. Government officials have flatly rejected such accusations in the past. Turkey adjusted its military rules of engagement this month to allow NATO allies to carry out more patrol flights along its border with Syria. It has also carried out repeated raids on suspected Islamic State safe houses in Turkey. Nine suspected militants, thought to have been in contact with Islamic State members in Syria, were detained in dawn raids in four districts of the Aegean coastal city of Izmir on Thursday, the state-run Anadolu news agency said. It said they were accused of financing, recruiting and providing logistical support to the group. The military killed two suspected Islamic State members trying to enter Turkey illegally at the weekend, security sources said on Thursday. One of the suspects, a Syrian national, was thought to have been plotting a suicide bomb attack in either the capital Ankara or the southern province of Adana, home to Incirlik, a major base used by U.S. and Turkish forces through which some coalition air strikes against Islamic State are carried out. Heat is on: Saudi sells more light crude to Asia, piles pressure on rivals By Florence Tan and Osamu Tsukimori SINGAPORE/TOKYO, June 30 (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia will supply more Arab Extra Light crude to at least two buyers in Asia in July, four sources familiar with the matter said on Thursday, as the top oil exporter ramps up shipments in a bid to claim a bigger share of the Asian market. Saudi Arabia has traditionally accounted for most of the crude imports by Asia, the world's biggest oil consuming region, but recently its position has been challenged with Russia overtaking it as China's top supplier in the past three months. The kingdom, however, has responded by pumping and shipping more following an oilfield expansion, a move that traders say could pressure rival producers - such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Russia - and knock down prices in Asia. In fact, state oil giant Saudi Aramco has already found buyers for its additional output in July, with some customers in Asia lifting 10 percent more than contracted volumes, the sources told Reuters on Thursday. The OPEC kingpin kept the official selling price (OSP) for Arab Extra Light unchanged in July, contrary to expectations for a hike, to accommodate a 33 percent rise in output from an expansion at the Shaybah oilfield. "They are really pushing hard," a trader with a North Asian refiner said. Saudi Arabia could next cut OSPs for August to retain its competitive edge over rivals during what is expected to be a season for weak demand in Asia as several refineries shut for maintenance in the third quarter. Already, a near doubling of Asia's crude benchmark Dubai from the first quarter has depressed Asian refining margins. The resultant low demand has hit values for rival light grades like UAE's Murban and Russian ESPO. "UAE would be most affected if Saudi boosted sales," a second Asian crude buyer said. Murban cargoes loading in August sold at discounts against their OSP, while ESPO premiums were mostly below $2 a barrel against Dubai quotes, the lowest in at least eight months. "China used to be the biggest buyer (of ESPO crude) but they have slowed down a lot," a Singapore-based trader said. Boko Haram suicide bomber kills 11 at mosque in Cameroon By Anne Mireille Nzouankeu and Josiane Kouagheu YAOUNDE, June 30 (Reuters) - A suicide bomber belonging to Nigerian jihadist group Boko Haram killed at least 11 people when he blew himself up close to a mosque in Cameroon near the Nigerian border, military sources and local officials said on Thursday. The attack occurred late on Wednesday and followed the breaking of the fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. "After the prayer, the faithful gathered under a tent in Djakana," said a local official. "A suicide bomber exploded and killed 11 people. Four others were injured." A Cameroonian army officer said the bomber was a young boy. Since a regional offensive last year drove the insurgents from most of their strongholds, Boko Haram has been waging a guerrilla-style campaign targeting civilians. In Cameroon, teenage girls have killed dozens in suicide bombings. More than 15,000 people have been killed and 2 million displaced in Nigeria and neighbouring Chad, Niger and Cameroon during Boko Haram's seven-year campaign to carve out an Islamic caliphate in northeast Nigeria. The multinational joint task force, which has troops from all four Lake Chad countries, said on Wednesday it had swept through six villages and arrested 24 presumed accomplices of Boko Haram. In the operation, one soldier was killed and another injured by an improvised explosive device. French regulator to favour investment over price competition in future By Mathieu Rosemain and Gwenaelle Barzic PARIS, June 30 (Reuters) - France's telecoms regulator set new targets for the country's four operators in high-speed fixed and mobile internet services on Thursday and said he would favour investment in infrastructure in future rather than bear down on prices. "We have very competitive prices in France," the head of the regulator Arcep, Sebastien Soriano, told Reuters in an interview in his office in Paris. "Our first priority is not about prices. We're happy with the current situation." Beijing slams South China Sea case as court ruling nears By Ben Blanchard and Anthony Deutsch BEIJING/AMSTERDAM, June 30 (Reuters) - An international court said it would deliver a hotly anticipated ruling in the Philippines' case against China over the South China Sea on July 12, drawing an immediate rebuke from Beijing, which rejects the tribunal's jurisdiction. The United States, which is a close ally of the Philippines and is concerned about China's expansive South China Sea claims, reiterated its backing for The Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration and urged a peaceful resolution of the dispute. Manila is contesting China's historical claim to about 90 percent of the South China Sea, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes. Several Southeast Asian states have overlapping claims in the sea and the dispute has sparked concerns of a military confrontation that could disrupt global trade. In a lengthy statement, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Manila's unilateral approach flouted international law. "I again stress that the arbitration court has no jurisdiction in the case and on the relevant matter, and should not hold hearings or make a ruling," he said. He said: "On the issue of territory and disputes over maritime delineation, China does not accept any dispute resolution from a third party and does not accept any dispute resolution forced on China." In Manila, the foreign ministry said the Philippines would "fully respect" the tribunal's ruling and hoped members of the international community would do the same. U.S. state department spokeswoman Anna Richey-Allen reiterated U.S. backing for the court. "We support the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea, including the use of international legal mechanisms such as arbitration." But China's official Xinhua news agency said the court was a "law-abusing tribunal" that would only worsen the dispute. "Manila fails to see that such an arbitration will only stir up more trouble in the South China Sea, which doesn't serve the interests of the concerned parties in the least," it said. DASHED LINE China's bases its South China Sea claim on a so-called "Nine Dash line" stretching deep into the maritime heart of southeast Asia and covering hundreds of disputed islands and reefs, rich fishing grounds and oil and gas deposits. A ruling against Beijing "would deprive China of any legal basis for making such a claim," Paul Reichler, the Philippines' chief lawyer in the case told Reuters. For China to reject the ruling meant it had "essentially declared themselves an outlaw state" that did not respect the rule of law, Reichler said. The Philippines argues that China's claim violates the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea and restricts its rights to exploit resources and fishing areas within its exclusive economic zone. While the territorial dispute over the South China Sea was a key issue, priority would be given to crushing Islamist militants in the Philippines, Manila's new defence minister Delfin Lorenzana told Reuters. Lorenzana's comments about his priorities will add to uncertainty about incoming Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte position on the dispute. Duterte has said he would confront Beijing but also said he would engage through dialogue. U.S. officials are worried China may respond to what is widely expected to be a negative ruling for Beijing by declaring an air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in the South China Sea, as it did in the East China Sea in 2013, and by stepping up its building and fortification of artificial islands. In Beijing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian repeated the standard line when asked if China would set up an ADIZ in response, saying that while China had such a right, any decision would be made based on the threat level. "The Chinese military has the determination and the ability to protect the country's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," Wu told a regular news briefing. U.S. officials say that beyond diplomatic pressure, the U.S. response to such moves could include accelerated "freedom-of-navigation" patrols by U.S. warships and overflights by U.S. aircraft as well as increased defence aid to southeast Asian countries. China has accused the United States of "hyping" the issue and warned in May that international complaints about its actions in the South China Sea would snap back on its critics. But it has largely avoided specific comments on how it might respond to the arbitration ruling. Tensions have intensified and spread ahead of the ruling, with two U.S. aircraft carriers taking part in various exercises in East Asian waters last month in what the U.S. Navy said an effort to deter any attempts to "destabilize the region". Indonesia's president on Wednesday ordered an expansion of oil exploration and commercial fishing in waters near the Natuna Islands, where Indonesian navy vessels and Chinese fishermen recently clashed. Japan said it had scrambled fighters to counter Chinese jets in the East China Sea about 200 times in the past three months, almost double the number from the same period a year ago. "It appears that Chinese activity is escalating at sea and in the air," said Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, chief of the Japanese Self-Defence Forces. Oil falls below $50 on higher supply outlook, economic worries By Alex Lawler and Dmitry Zhdannikov LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - Oil fell below $50 a barrel on Thursday, pressured by higher Nigerian output and concern about the economic outlook following Britain's vote to leave the European Union last week. Returning Nigerian supply will put pressure on prices, Goldman Sachs said, adding that outages caused by Canadian wildfires would virtually end by September. Norwegian supply could be hit by a threatened workers' strike, however. Brent crude was down 88 cents a barrel at $49.73 as of 1242 GMT, having risen in the two previous sessions. U.S. crude was down $1.02 to $48.86. "Supply is gradually improving in Canada, although in Norway we still have some risk," said Olivier Jakob of Petromatrix, who added a weak gasoline refining margin was weighing on crude. "I don't think the case is there for $30 oil, but to go to $60 you need to see stronger support from the (refined)products." Brent has risen by 85 percent since reaching a 12-year low in January, supported by expectations that a glut that has been weighing on prices since 2014 would start to ease and by unplanned losses from Canada to Nigeria. "We have a large overhang of surplus stock to work off and that will take some time as well. I'd imagine that over time you will see more upward pressure than downward pressure on prices," said Royal Dutch Shell's chief executive Ben van Beurden. Nonetheless, the return of some of that oil and concern over a slowing economy, compounded by Britain's vote to leave the European Union, are weighing near-term, analysts said. Adding to economic concerns, industrial output in Asia's second-largest economy, Japan, slid in May at the fastest rate in three months to its lowest level since June 2013. On the supply front, oil production in Nigeria has risen to about 1.9 million barrels per day (bpd) from 1.6 million, due to repairs and a lack of new major attacks on pipelines in the Delta region, the state oil company said on Monday. "Short-term supply conditions look overwhelmingly bearish," said Georgi Slavov, global head of energy, iron ore and shipping research at Marex Spectron, in a report on Wednesday. In Norway, oil companies and trade unions began two-day wage talks in a bid to avert a strike that would initially cut the country's oil and gas output by 6 percent, the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association said. Italy's judicial shakeup caught in conflicts of interest By Crispian Balmer and Gavin Jones ROME, June 30 (Reuters) - Denis Verdini once told a group of friends there were three types of people he did not like: cardinals, policemen and judges. "Because they all tell you what to do," he said, according to someone present. Prosecutors have ordered the silver-haired Italian politician to stand trial six times since 2014 in an array of cases involving alleged graft and alleged financial wrongdoing. Verdini has denied all the charges against him. The first trial, which revolved around allegations of irregularity over the awarding of a contract to build a police school in Florence, ended in March in a guilty verdict and a two-year prison term for Verdini. He says he will appeal the sentence, but the outcome may not matter: Under Italy's statute of limitations, which imposes deadlines on courts to complete legal proceedings, the case will automatically be shut down this summer. Italy's justice system has long been one of the most dysfunctional in Europe, especially when it comes to alleged white-collar criminals like Verdini. Prosecutors say it is all but impossible to reach a definitive verdict for a multitude of financial crimes within the prescribed time frame, which is seldom more than eight years. That's partly because legal cases take so long in Italy. But it is also because Italy is unique in Europe: Its statute of limitations starts from the moment an alleged crime is committed rather than from the point it is discovered, and the time limit is not extended when a defendant is put under investigation or indicted or sentenced. No other country has both rules. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has promised to overhaul the sclerotic justice system and his coalition has already made some changes, including cutting the amount of holiday that magistrates can take, lengthening prison sentences for bribery and increasing legal costs to try to limit frivolous litigation. But a determined group of politicians, including the powerful Verdini, is blocking more far-reaching reform, including to the statute of limitations. This conflict of interest is fueling a fierce confrontation between the judiciary and the government. According to website L'incredibile Parlamento Italiano, more than 90 Italian parliamentarians - almost one in 10 - have either already benefitted from the statute of limitations or are currently on trial or under investigation for white-collar crimes and misdemeanours, many of which have a short judicial shelf-life. The prime minister has pledged to break the deadlock before the August summer recess but has not said how. Because his Democratic Party does not have a majority in the 315-seat upper house Senate, it needs Verdini's 19 senators to get any justice reforms approved. Verdini, who leads the Popular and Liberal Alliance for local Autonomy (ALA), declined to be interviewed for this article. His ally Lucio Barani, the ALA's parliamentary leader, told Reuters the party was opposed to extending the statute of limitations because it would leave defendants in judicial limbo for too long. "We represent the sovereign people. Only demagogues and the enemies of politics lengthen the statute of limitations," said Barani, who himself benefitted from the procedural cut-off in 2012 in a case in which he was accused of abusing his powers as mayor of the small Tuscan town of Aulla. He is also on trial for alleged embezzlement in another case likely to be wiped out by the statute of limitations. He denies all the charges against him. Only 286 people are serving time in Italian jails for white-collar offences compared with 7,986 in Germany, according to the Council of Europe, a democracy and human rights watchdog. This is despite the fact that according to Transparency International only Bulgaria in the 28-nation European Union has a worse problem with corruption than Italy. Nicola Gratteri, chairman of a committee on judicial reform set up by Renzi in 2014, says around three-quarters of all trials for non-violent or non-drugs-related crimes expire before the appeals process is exhausted. "In Italy there is a generalised spirit of indulgence to allow the guilty to go unpunished ... no one seriously believes in penal sanctions," says Pier Camillo Davigo, the head of Italy's powerful Magistrates Association, who made his name in the "Clean Hands" corruption investigations of the early 1990s that swept away an entire political class. Davigo said corruption had got worse since then. "The politicians haven't stopped stealing," he said. "They've stopped being ashamed of it." THE PUPPET MASTER Always elegantly turned out in crisp suits and ties, Verdini likes to play by his own rules. He comes from a modest background. To pay his way through university and a subsequent course to become an accountant, he sold meat wholesale, earning himself the nickname "the butcher." Through his second wife, Simonetta Fossombroni, who comes from a noble Tuscan family, Verdini gained access to the highest echelons of Italian society and, in the 1990s, entry into billionaire media mogul Silvio Berlusconi's new centre-right party, Forza Italia (Go Italy!). Verdini was elected to parliament in 2001 and grabbed Berlusconi's attention by giving him a painting as a present, said a former political ally, who declined to be named. Verdini quickly became Berlusconi's numbers man in parliament, making sure he had enough votes to turn bills into law, including controversial items such as the decriminalisation of false accounting and shortening the statute of limitations to make it even harder for prosecutors to secure verdicts for many white-collar crimes. As Berlusconi's fortunes faded - he resigned as prime minister in 2011 - Verdini also suffered setbacks. He broke with Berlusconi last July and pledged support for Renzi, a fellow Tuscan. Perhaps the most serious case Verdini faces revolves around the 2010 collapse of Credito Cooperativo Fiorentino, a bank where he served as chairman for 20 years. Prosecutors say he used the bank to build up a powerbase that helped him in politics. They say he offered loans to friends and associates without proper guarantees - loans that ultimately undermined the bank, they allege. The bank case carries a statute of limitations of around 20 years that will almost certainly not expire before a definitive verdict is reached - a relative rarity in Italy. "The bank was used to create a personal power system. It essentially made Verdini become the person he became," said an experienced prosecutor involved in several investigations into the senator. Verdini has said he did no wrong. In April, he told a Florence court hearing in the case that he was misunderstood: "I am made out to be a little devil, but in reality, I have always acted correctly and in respect of the norms established in the law." In a separate case Verdini is accused of belonging to a secretive lobbying group known as Propaganda Tre. Prosecutors say the organisation plotted in 2009 to lean on Constitutional Court judges before they ruled on a measure to grant Berlusconi and others legal immunity. That case is in court; the next hearing is due in July. Verdini's lawyers say he is innocent. TO THE LIMIT Italy's statute of limitations in criminal cases is designed to protect defendants from persecution by the state. But in Italy, the time limits work quite differently to the way they do in other rich countries. In France, for example, the time allowed for a case is stopped and re-set at 10 years every time a judge takes any action - an indictment or a summons, say - which shows the state is still interested in reaching a verdict. In the United States there is no time limit once a defendant is sent to trial, which means they have no interest in dragging out proceedings. In Britain there is no limit as soon as police open investigations into a suspect. In Italy, though, the clock starts when a crime is committed and keeps ticking until the statute of limitations runs out. That gives every incentive for a defendant to prolong proceedings, according to lawyers. The rules are different in civil cases, where it's almost impossible to run down the clock - and politicians opposed to reforming the penal code point to the endless proceedings in the civil courts as an argument for maintaining current time limits on criminal cases. But reformers say the scales are weighted too heavily in favour of the accused. Even after a guilty verdict at the initial trial, defendants are allowed two appeals and are considered innocent until the final court ruling is delivered. For financial crimes, where wrongdoing is often not discovered for years, there is then little time left to secure three guilty verdicts before the case expires. "Finance police only investigate tax returns with a four year delay," making it close to impossible to convict people for things like tax fraud, said Florence prosecutor Luca Turco, who is leading the case against Verdini over the bank collapse. EFFICIENT, FAIR AND PREDICTABLE? Italy's courts have a backlog of eight million cases - 4.5 million in the civil system and 3.5 million in the penal tribunals, according to the Justice Ministry. Over the past 11 years, the statute of limitations law has seen 1.68 million cases thrown out. "Lawyers make their money from litigation so most of them advise against mediation," said Raffaele Rotondaro, a lawyer in Rome. Of around 25 cases in which his clients had attempted mediation, not one had reached a successful conclusion. To speed up the justice system, Rotondaro suggests hiring more judges. As a proportion of its population, Italy has one of the lowest number of judges in the EU, according to the European Commission. At the same time, it has some 237,000 registered lawyers, or 370 per 100,000 inhabitants, one of the highest rates in the bloc. France has fewer than 100, Germany around 200. But Italy's creaking public finances can ill afford to pay for thousands of new judges. And streamlining the system - by, for example, eliminating the automatic right of appeal - would hit lawyers' profits and could make thousands unemployed. "Can you imagine any prime minister actually taking on the lawyers?" said the chief magistrate Davigo. "It's never going to happen." Economists say the dysfunctional justice system is a huge drag on growth - as serious as better-known problems such as Italy's massive public debt. U.S. ambassador to Italy John Phillips makes the comparison between Italy's Supreme Court, which ruled on 77,628 penal and civil cases in 2015 and has 140,541 cases pending, to the U.S. Supreme court which typically makes around 80 rulings a year. "A fundamental purpose of government is to create a judicial system that produces efficient, fair, and predictable results," Phillips told students in a speech in Milan in April. "Does Italy have this? Many potential investors have told me that, simply put, the answer to that question is 'no.' And that is the number one reason why they decide against investing in Italy." Italy's UniCredit names Mustier as new CEO By Paola Arosio and Gianluca Semeraro MILAN, June 30 (Reuters) - UniCredit appointed French investment banker Jean-Pierre Mustier as its chief executive on Thursday, a choice that is likely to lead to a multi-billion euro capital increase and asset sales to boost the bank's financial strength. The board of Italy's biggest bank by assets unanimously backed Mustier at an extraordinary meeting, UniCredit said, ending the uncertainty that began last month when CEO Federico Ghizzoni said he would step down. The appointment marks a big comeback for Mustier, 55, who was once fined in France for insider trading. He previously headed investment banking at Societe Generale and at UniCredit and is currently a partner at fund manager Tikehau Capital. He faces a difficult task at UniCredit. The bank's shares have fallen more than 60 percent this year, weighed down by investor concerns over its profitability, high pile of bad loans and a weaker balance sheet compared to major European rivals. Ghizzoni agreed to go on May 24 in the face of shareholder discontent over the lender's poor performance. In comments distributed by the bank, Mustier - who will take on his new role on July 12 - said he will draft a new strategic plan to boost UniCredit's capital and profits. He plans to bring in a new team of Italian bankers to help overhaul UniCredit and raise its core capital ratio to 12.5 percent, from 10.5 percent now, a source familiar with his thinking said. He is expected to launch a capital increase and would look to sell businesses such as local online bank Fineco, Polish unit Pekao and asset manager Pioneer, but not UniCredit's German bank HVB, the source said. A sale of its Turkish business would also not be a priority, the source said. Mustier had first joined UniCredit to head its investment banking division in 2011, nearly two years after resigning from SocGen. He was in charge of SocGen's investment bank in January 2008 when the bank disclosed 4.9 billion euros ($5.4 bln) of losses blamed on rogue trades by Jerome Kerviel. Mustier left SocGen in 2009 after the French market watchdog accused him of insider trading. He was fined 100,000 euros for selling shares in the French bank just as world markets began to fall as the financial crisis intensified in the summer of 2007. Mustier has always denied any wrongdoing. UniCredit's shareholders wanted a new boss with strong Italian connections but with an international perspective and experience managing complex operations at a big bank. At least one Italian investor had initially opposed Mustier's appointment and some shareholders would have preferred an Italian national, but those doubts were overcome during frantic overnight meetings leading to Thursday's announcement, sources said. They said UniCredit's chairman, Giuseppe Vita, was likely to be replaced after the summer. Mustier has shown an ability to cut costs when he was investment banking chief at UniCredit and, as an investment banker, has skills required for a major fund-raising if needed. One banker, who has known Mustier since he worked at SocGen, said he was highly intelligent and able to take risky decisions. "He is clever ... direct to the point, fully dedicated, he works 24/24 and never stops," the banker said. Senior government and central bank officials along with shareholders and bondholders had called for UniCredit to find a new CEO quickly given turmoil in financial markets. Italy has taken longer than other European countries to stabilise its banks after a long recession that followed the 2007-2009 financial crisis. Its banks are still carrying 360 billion euros in bad debts, or a third of the euro zone's total. Rome is drafting a contingency plan to help banks in the wake of the Brexit vote, fearing a market sell-off may tip lenders into a full-blown crisis, officials have said. UniCredit's shares closed up 2.3 percent, reversing earlier losses as Italian banks gained on news that the European Commission has authorised a six-month Italian guarantee scheme to provide liquidity to solvent banks in case of need. The Italian government may have to inject capital directly into weaker banks, a government source said, adding it was waiting for the results of stress tests being conducted by European banking authorities. New York's two-tier system offers testing ground in minimum wage debate By Edward Krudy NEW YORK, June 30(Reuters) - When New York and California became the first states to lift the minimum hourly wage towards $15 earlier this year, New York state adopted a two-speed system that makes it a perfect testing ground for both advocates and opponents of government mandated pay hikes. While California set a state-wide schedule of reaching the $15 level by 2022, New York lawmakers struck an 11th hour compromise that created different timetables for New York City and neighboring counties and the "upstate" regions where incomes are lower and labor markets less robust. Under the plan minimum wages in the northern and eastern parts of the state would be initially lifted from present $9 to $12.50 by 2021 rather than $15 as in New York City and adjacent areas and only later upstate might gradually catch up, although there is no fixed timetable. It will be almost six years before $15 and $12.50 minimum wage levels will be reached throughout the state, but other states and advocates of a higher national minimum wage standard will be closely watching how New York state's regions will respond to its two-speed system. To be sure, some big cities have adopted their own targets - notably San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle - but New York is the first big state to experiment with a state-wide two-tier setup. Governor Andrew Cuomo's administration has estimated that a $15 minimum wage across the state would bring its economy $15.7 billion per year in additional spending by minimum wage earners. Based on such calculations, a $12.5 minimum wage in upstate New York would bring about $2.6 billion rather than $6 billion to the region, according to Reuters estimates, confirmed by an analysis by economists from the Fiscal Policy Institute and the Rockefeller Institute. (Graphic: http://tmsnrt.rs/1WGO59y) The governor's office did not respond to a request for comment for this article. When the deal was announced in early April Cuomo said a "calibrated" minimum wage path that was "responsible and a positive for the overall economy" could be an example for the rest of the country. The FPI's James Parrott, who together with Donald Boyd, director of fiscal studies at the Rockefeller Institute, prepared the analysis for Reuters, said two-speed minimum wage hikes could mean less growth for the upstate economy. "I'm not sure the proponents of a slower phase in upstate realize the magnitude of the impact," said James Parrott, FPI economist who helped with the analysis. Republican lawmakers and business lobbies have questioned the Democratic administration's calculations, which did not account for any possible impact on jobs, business investment or public sector budgets. Groups that lobbied against a state-wide $15 minimum wage have argued that economic growth and demand in the northern parts of the state were not strong enough to cope with higher labor costs and moving at the same pace as New York city could lead to losses of hundreds of thousands of jobs. "The upstate economy is very, very different from the down-state economy," said Greg Biryla, Executive Director of Unshackle Upstate, a lobby group for upstate businesses. Not surprisingly, some upstate workers feel short-changed by the compromise struck in the state capital. Lorie Compton, 43, who works as a care worker in a nursing home for a non-profit in Ithaca, New York, and raises two teenage daughters, says on $11.40 an hour she cannot afford her employer's health insurance program or even a visit to the movies. "I'm poverty level, let me put it that way," she said. "It should be $12.50 now and then they can bump it up." But some economists say for big states with substantial regional disparities, a two-tier system may have its merits. "It is smart to adjust minimum wage levels with some sensitivity to local prices," said Jared Bernstein, an economist at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and former director of the President Obama's Task Force on the Middle Class. "There is a reason why $15 makes more sense in San Francisco than in Mississippi." Singapore to decide soon on $1-bln deal for military helicopters By Marius Zaharia SINGAPORE, June 30 (Reuters) - Singapore will decide "soon" on an estimated $1-billion purchase of new military helicopters which it had delayed after the crash of a civilian aircraft made by one of the bidders, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said on Thursday. The tiny city-state has the largest defence budget in Southeast Asia at a time when China's increasingly assertive actions in the disputed South China Sea waterway spur regional nations to step up defence spending. Singapore put on ice its plans to replace 32 ageing Super Pumas after the April 29 crash of a civilian Airbus Super Puma, whose military version had been the frontrunner to clinch the helicopter order. The city-state, a customer highly sought-after by military contractors, had been expected to announce its decision in the first half of this year, after 18 months of evaluation. "We are finalising evaluations for the replacement," Ng told reporters. "We will announce it soon." He gave no estimated timeframe, however. The race for the contract is between Airbus Helicopters and Italian firm Leonardo Finmeccanica. It would be the first major test of confidence in the military version of the aircraft since the crash that killed 13 people off Norway. "When there are developments, the evaluation committee will look into it," Ng added. "You cannot ignore it, and that goes for every platform." Singapore's fleet of F15 and F16 fighter jets currently meets requirements, said Ng, although experts had expected the country to order the Lockheed F-35 Joint Strike Fighter by the end of the decade. "We are watching it, but no hurry at all, and there is no fixed timeline that we need to make an evaluation," Ng said. The city state is also studying tactical lift helicopters to replace its Boeing Chinooks, Ng said. Singapore could upgrade its air capabilities beyond helicopters by expanding airbases at Tengah and Changi, with a "smart air base" potentially set up at the latter to enable aircraft launch and recovery with automated systems, he added. Two new type 218SG submarines produced by Germany's ThyssenKrupp will join the fleet from 2020. To protect against terror attacks, Singapore will set up a battalion-sized Army Deployment Force of skilled soldiers, capable of responding within minutes. Ng said it was "unfortunate" that ASEAN leaders retracted a common statement on the disputed South China Sea, where Singapore is not a claimant, at a meeting of foreign ministers of the Southeast Asian grouping in June. Massachusetts schools could soon be using new standards for teaching computer science and digital literacy. The state board of education voted unanimously to adopt the new standards , which are voluntary, earlier this week. Schools can begin using them as soon as this fall. The standard are unique in that they integrate goals for both computational thinking and basic computer use , including how to operate digital tools, use the internet safely, and combat cyberbullying. Our next step is to see how we can help develop the capacity to incorporate these standards more fully into the K-12 curriculum, Massachusetts Secretary of Education James A. Peyser said in a press release. The standards were written by educators and industry representatives and then put out for public review. More states and districts are pushing to get computer science into public schools. Virginia recently became the first state to require that all K-12 students learn the subject. Arkansas has also been ahead on the computer science push every high school in the state must offer computer science courses, and in the next couple of years all elementary and middle school students there will get computer science instruction. However, states havent generally combined computer science with digital literacy, or the broad skills and behaviors needed to use digital devices and the internet. Related stories: Angry workers force Greece's PPC to delay meeting on stake sale ATHENS, June 30 (Reuters) - Angry workers from Greek utility Public Power Corp. disrupted a shareholder meeting intended to launch the sale of a minority stake in its subsidiary power grid ADMIE, a Reuters witness said. Between 40 and 50 members of staff unfurled a huge banner behind the podium of the general meeting which read "PPC is not for sale, it is not to be broken up." Chairman Manolis Panagiotakis postponed the meeting from Thursday until July 11. "We fear that by spinning off ADMIE some 5,000 jobs will be lost," said George Adamides, head of the PPC workers union. "We will be back." Thursday's incident is symptomatic of fierce workers' resistance to privatisations in Greece, which have frequently been put on the back burner because of staff objections or government reluctance. They are however a key element of a third international bailout Greece signed up to last summer, worth up to 86 billion euros. At Thursday's meeting, the utility had planned to start the process to sell part of the ADMIE grid. PPC controls almost 95 percent of the Greek retail market. A sale of a stake in the grid is also part of a creditor-mandated drive to cut PPC's dominance of the local retail market. Under bailout terms, Greece is obliged to sell up to 24 percent of ADMIE, now fully owned by PPC. Lebanese army says it foils planned attacks by Islamic State BEIRUT, June 30 (Reuters) - Lebanon's army said on Thursday it had foiled planned terrorist attacks by Islamic State on a tourist site and a crowded area, days after suicide bombers killed five people in a Christian village. Five people involved in the two thwarted attacks, including the mastermind, were arrested on Thursday, an army statement quoted by the National News Agency said. "Those arrested confessed to having carried out terrorist acts against the army previously. Investigations are continuing," the army said. It gave no further details. Lebanese security services have been on heightened alert for in recent weeks. Islamic State had urged its followers to launch attacks on "non-believers" during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began in early June. The government warned this week of a heightened terrorist threat after eight suicide bombers targeted a Christian village on the border with Syria on Monday, killing five people. Prime Minister Tammam Salam said he feared "a new wave of terrorist operations". Lebanon has been repeatedly jolted by attacks linked to the war in neighbouring Syria, where powerful Lebanese Shi'ite group Hezbollah is fighting in support of President Bashar al-Assad. A bombing attack in a mostly Shi'ite area of Beirut, claimed by IS, killed more than 40 people in November. The army said it had arrested more than 400 Syrians in a series of raids in recent days, on suspicion of illegal entry into Lebanon or illegal movement inside the country. Philippines hopes for "soft landing" in sea dispute with China MANILA, June 30 (Reuters) - The Philippines hopes for a "soft landing" in a dispute with China over the South China Sea when the arbitration court in The Hague delivers its ruling, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Thursday after he was sworn in. China claims almost all the South China Sea, where about $5 trillion worth of trade passes every year. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also claim the sea believed to have rich deposits of oil and gas. The Philippines brought a case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration against China's "excessive" claim to the waters. China had refused to recognise the case. A ruling is expected on July 12. Philippine Foreign Minister Perfecto Yasay said he had rejected suggestions to issue a strong statement against China if the decision goes Manila's way. "I am averse to that idea," Perfecto Yasay told Duterte's first Cabinet meeting, saying the government would study the "implications and ramifications" of the decision first. Duterte said there should be "a soft landing". Briton charged with murder in Kenya granted bail NAIROBI, June 30 (Reuters) - A Kenyan court granted bail on Thursday to a British business executive charged with the murder of a Kenyan woman, his lawyer said. Richard Alden, 52, has denied he killed Grace Wangeci, 42, whom his lawyers said he had found "unresponsive" at his home on June 4 in the upscale Karen district of Nairobi before he took her to hospital, where she was declared dead. A lawyer who is no longer on Alden's defence team told Reuters in early June she had died while taking "selfies with a gun" that accidentally went off in his home. A few days later Tom Okundi, another lawyer who is still on his defence team, dismissed that account in comments to Reuters. "We are clearly pleased with the decision today to grant Richard Alden bail," Okundi said in a statement after Thursday's hearing. "Richard is innocent of these charges." In their bail request presented to the court, Alden's defence team said he did not represent a flight risk given he had taken Wangeci to hospital and had called the police. Nigeria signs $80 bln of oil, gas infrastructure deals with China LAGOS, June 30 (Reuters) - Nigeria has signed oil and gas infrastructure agreements worth $80 billion with Chinese companies, the West African country's state oil company said on Thursday. Nigeria, an OPEC member which was until recently Africa's biggest oil producer, relies on crude sales for around 70 percent of national income, but its oil and gas infrastructure is in need of updating. The country's four refineries have never reached full production because of poor maintenance, causing it to rely on expensive imported fuel for 80 percent of energy needs. These problems have been exacerbated by a series of attacks on oil and gas facilities by militants in the southern Niger Delta energy hub which pushed production down to 30-year lows in the last few weeks. Oil minister Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, who also heads the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has been in China since Sunday for a roadshow aimed at raising investment. "Memorandum of understandings (MoUs) worth over $80 billion to be spent on investments in oil and gas infrastructure, pipelines, refineries, power, facility refurbishments and upstream have been signed with Chinese companies," said NNPC in a statement. NNPC added the China roadshow was "the first of many investor roadshows intended for the raising of funds" to support the country's oil and gas infrastructure development plans. Earlier this week, NNPC said oil production had in the last few days risen by around 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.9 million bpd, due to repairs and no attacks having been carried out since June 16. Pakistan plans talks with Afghanistan, UN agency over refugees' return By Mehreen Zahra-Malik ISLAMABAD, June 30 (Reuters) - Pakistan plans talks with Afghanistan and the United Nations refugee agency to move longtime Afghan refugees to camps at home, the foreign office said on Thursday, after the numbers of those returning plunged this year. Pakistan has the world's second largest refugee population, with more than 1.5 million registered, and about a million unregistered, refugees from neighbouring Afghanistan, most of whom fled the Soviet occupation of their country in the 1980s. The U.N. says the number of Afghans voluntarily returning from Pakistan has fallen to about 6,000, well below last year's 58,211, as violence worsens in Afghanistan, where the government and its U.S. allies are battling a stubborn Taliban insurgency. Pakistan's foreign ministry said it would immediately approach Afghanistan on the political and diplomatic fronts, while the ministry for frontier regions would engage with the U.N. refugee agency and Afghanistan's ministry of refugees. The talks would seek ways to ease "early returns as well as the possibility of shifting Afghan refugees gradually from Pakistan to safer and peaceful areas of Afghanistan, where the Afghan government should establish settlements," the foreign office said in a statement. Hussain Alemi Balkhi, the Afghan minister for refugees and repatriation, said, "We know that the refugees face harassment and hardship, and we are working with Pakistani authorities to address these problems." He confirmed plans for a three-way meeting on July 19 with Pakistan and the U.N. refugee agency. On Wednesday, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif allowed the 1.5 million registered refugees to stay on for six more months. The registration deadline extension came soon after officials told Reuters at least 500 Afghan refugees had been arrested in the northwestern border province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and deported as a security risk. Formosa unit offers $500 mln for causing toxic disaster in Vietnam By Mai Nguyen HANOI, June 30 (Reuters) - One of the biggest environmental disasters to hit Vietnam was caused by a unit of a Taiwanese conglomerate leaking toxic waste into the sea, the Hanoi government said on Thursday, ending months of mystery and rare public outrage. Formosa Ha Tinh Steel, a subsidiary of Formosa Plastics , has promised $500 million in damages and admitted that its $10.6 billion steel plant had caused massive fish deaths along a 200-km (124-mile) stretch of coastline that occurred in April, the government said. The disaster unleashed a huge outcry, with months of public anger on social media and on the streets of big cities. Vietnamese vented their fury at both the government and Formosa, one of the communist country's biggest investors, accusing them of a cover-up. "Violations in the construction and testing operations of the plant are the causes for serious environment pollution killing a massive amount of fish," government office chief Mai Tien Dung told a news conference. The new steel plant is set to become the biggest of its kind in Southeast Asia and its complex will be expanded to include a deepwater port and 1,500-megawatt thermal power complex. The disaster left a new government grappling to contain a major crisis, just days after taking office. In what seemed to be an attempt to prevent a backlash, Taiwan's foreign ministry urged Vietnam late on Thursday to protect Taiwanese businesses. "We hope for the continued support of the Vietnamese government and its people," it said in a statement. In a video message, the chairman of its steel unit went further, asking for forgiveness. "We deeply hope the Vietnam people can be generous," Tran Nguyen Thanh said. "I CHOOSE FISH" The announcement backed up initial reports by Vietnamese media that blamed Formosa. Anger was stoked further when a Formosa official said the Vietnamese people should choose between catching seafood and having a modern steel industry. "I choose fish" became a social media slogan. Preliminary inquiries by the firm and the government found nothing linking the dead fish to the plant. The latest findings said the toxins were phenol, cyanide and ferrous hydroxide. Government officials denied engaging in any cover-up to protect a big investor and said the delay in reaching a conclusion was to ensure certainty, adding that Japanese, German and French scientists were among 100 experts involved. Asked by reporters if Formosa Ha Tinh would be prosecuted, Dung suggested its admission of guilt might be enough to avert that, and Vietnam needed to protect its image. "Vietnam is building an investment environment, an image of integration and participation in trade agreements, and highly appreciated by foreign investors," he said. The crisis took on more significance when thousands of demonstrators mobilised via Facebook on successive weekends in a rare show of organised dissent in the tightly-run state. The authorities ran a propaganda campaign to discredit the protesters, saying they were exploited by "reactionary forces" bent on overthrowing the government. Police blocked or cracked down on the rallies, some of which came ahead of a visit by U.S. President Barack Obama, in which Vietnam's human rights record was a key issue. Michelle Obama campaigns for girls' education in Madrid MADRID, June 30 (Reuters) - U.S. first lady Michelle Obama was joined by Spain's Queen Letizia in Madrid on Thursday on the last leg of a trip to promote girls' education in poorer countries and raise awareness of gender inequalities. Addressing about 600 young women, many of them students, Obama shared stories from visits to Liberia and Morocco and highlighted the struggle many girls there faced to go to school. "Every one of us has the power and obligation to be a champion for girls around the world," Obama said. She urged the audience to stand up to inequalities they might also face in the workplace or school. "In countries like Spain and the United States, men and women are often held to very different standards," she said, adding, in a nod to Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton: "I'm pleased to say that this year, for the first time in U.S. history, we might just elect a female president." The first lady was accompanied by her daughters Malia and Sasha and her mother on the six-day tour to highlight the work of Let Girls Learn, a U.S. government initiative she launched with U.S. President Barack Obama in 2015. Taiwan rejects China's Luxshare investment in Merry Electronics TAIPEI, June 30 (Reuters) - Taiwan said it had rejected a plan by China's Luxshare Precision Industry Co to invest in Merry Electronics Co on Thursday, the first rejection of Chinese capital in a technology firm under the new Democratic Progressive Party government. Scrutiny of Chinese investment has intensified since Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen of the DPP took office in May, with $1 billion in investment in Taiwan's chip sector planned by Beijing-backed Tsinghua Unigroup still awaiting approval. Merry Electronics, which makes headsets, speakers, amplifiers and other small acoustical devices, is considered a market leader in its field and in Taiwan and Thursday's decision was issued by the Investment Commission, which reviews inbound and outbound investment. "Considering that Merry Electronics is the domestic leader in the micro-electronic acoustics industry, (such an investment) could affect the future of Taiwan's overall development in this industry," the commission said in its statement. Taiwan heavily regulates investments related to China and the island's technology industry, which is a mainstay for the economy and one of the world's largest. Ukraine's central bank buys $70.8 mln at forex auction KIEV, June 30 (Reuters) - The National Bank of Ukraine bought $70.8 million from banks on Thursday, one of the largest amounts in recent weeks, after a weeklong break in the central bank's auctions on a market which sees the local currency firming. On Thursday, the bank said it would buy up to $100 million, accepting bids at an exchange rate between 24.8150-24.8300 hryvnias per dollar. Banks offered $81.4 million. At its last auction on June 22, the central bank bought $22.4 million at 24.89-24.90 per dollar. Meanwhile, the hryvnia's average rate on the interbank market firmed to 24.8242 from 24.8544 per dollar in the previous day. UPDATED District of Columbia public schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson announced Wednesday that she will step down from her post in the fall after five years at the helm. Henderson came to the District of Columbia schools in 2007 to serve as a deputy to former Chancellor Michelle Rhee. Henderson was appointed as interim and then permanent chancellor after Rhees fall 2010 resignation. Under Hendersons leadership, a growing number of students have reached proficiency in reading and math on both the citys annual exams and the National Assessment of Educational Progress, or NAEP, but achievement gaps between white and non-white students have persisted. During her tenure, enrollment in the district has also been on the upswing after decades of decline. Henderson carried on many of the efforts her predecessor launched, including a controversial teacher-evaluation system, IMPACT, that led to widespread teacher and principal firings. But she managed to continue Rhees policies with a less combative approach that often allowed for more focus on the change rather than the person behind it. As my colleague Catherine Gewertz detailed in a 2013 Education Week series , Henderson led the the District of Columbias aggressive and early adoption of the Common Core State Standards. The district was among the first to overhaul its math and reading curriculum to meet the standards, and train teachers to teach them. Now, after more than nine years in Washington, shes leaving the district, one of the nations most closely watched school systems. Her last day on the job is Sept. 30. Simply put, I am ready to take on new challenges, and I have complete confidence that the team we have built at DCPS is prepared to drive our work forward under new leadership, Henderson wrote in a letter to parents and community members. John Davis, the school systems chief of schools, will serve as interim chancellor after Hendersons departure, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced. A national search for a permanent chancellor will begin later this year. Without a doubt, DCPS is a very different place today than it was when Kaya joined our school system in 2007. DCPS is the fastest improving urban school district in the country. After decades of decline, DCPS has also seen consistent, annual enrollment growth since Kaya became Chancellorgrowing from 45,000 students in 2010 to nearly 49,000 students this year. While we will miss Kaya, we can all be proud of her team and her tenure as the second longest-serving leader of DCPS, Bowser wrote in letter to District of Columbia residents . This is also an incredible opportunity for our city to continue to improve how we are delivering high-quality education to our students. I remain committed to pushing the envelope even further on education reform. Chancellor Henderson Letter to DCPS Community Related Stories TABLE-OPEC oil output rises 250,000 bpd in June -Reuters survey June 30 (Reuters) - The following table shows OPEC crude oil output in millions of barrels per day (bpd) in June and May, according to a Reuters survey published on Thursday. The survey indicates output from the 13-member Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries rose by 250,000 bpd in June, led by an increase in Nigeria. OPEC has no supply target, having in December 2015 scrapped its output ceiling of 30 million bpd, which it had been exceeding for months. Totals are rounded. There are no individual quotas for the OPEC member countries. Next month's survey will include output from Gabon, which rejoins OPEC from July 1. June May Algeria 1.09 1.090 Angola 1.730 1.710 Ecuador 0.550 0.540 Indonesia 0.740 0.740 Iran 3.600 3.550 Iraq 4.200 4.280 Kuwait 2.850 2.840 Libya 0.300 0.260 Nigeria 1.550 1.400 (R) Qatar 0.660 0.660 Saudi Arabia 10.300 10.250 UAE 2.950 2.900 Venezuela 2.300 2.350 TOTAL OPEC 32.820 32.570 (R) R - Revised The Reuters survey aims to assess crude supply to market, defined to exclude movements to, but not sales from, storage. Saudi and Kuwaiti data includes the Neutral Zone. Venezuelan data includes upgraded synthetic oil. Nigerian output includes the Agbami stream and excludes Oso and Akpo condensates. (Reporting by Alex Lawler; Editing by Ruth Pitchford) Six found guilty of match fixing in Sweden STOCKHOLM, June 30 (Reuters) - A Swedish court of appeal has found six men, including three former players of the Kristianstads FF club, guilty of match fixing after one of the players admitted his involvement. Two men found guilty of bribing the players to influence the outcome of games between October 2013 and June 2015 were given jail terms of 12 and 14 months, while the players themselves and another man involved in bribing them were placed on probation. The ruling overturned an earlier district court verdict. One of the players admitted to having received a bribe while the others denied any involvement, with the court deciding that the first player was telling the truth. "The player is credible. His story contains elements which according to custom are necessary for a guilty verdict..., court president Lennart Svensaeter said in a media release. "Additionally, his information was supported by other evidence, which strengthens the impression of trustworthiness." The two men found guilty of bribing the players have also been ordered to pay fines totalling the amount they won gambling on the outcome of a fixed game in October 2013. Saudi Arabia to introduce hi-tech bracelets in haj safety push DUBAI, June 30 (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia will introduce electronic identification bracelets for all pilgrims to Mecca starting this year, Saudi media said on Thursday, as part of a safety drive a year after the annual Islamic rite suffered its deadliest disaster in a generation. As many as 2,070 people died in a crush when thousands of pilgrims converged on a walkway intersection near the Muslim holy city of Mecca last September, according to a Reuters count, the highest loss of life at the annual pilgrimage since 1990. That death toll is based on figures of fatalities provided by countries who repatriated the bodies of their citizens, but Saudi Arabia had put the official death toll at just 700. Containing personal and medical information, the bracelets will help authorities provide care and identify people, the official Saudi Press Agency SPA said. Water-resistant and connected to GPS, the devices will also instruct worshippers on timings of prayers and a multi-lingual help desk to guide especially non-Arabic speaking pilgrims around the various rituals of the annual Islamic event. Saudi Arabia oversees the annual pilgrimage to Mecca by more than two million Muslims from around the world. The haj, the world's largest annual gathering of Muslims, has witnessed numerous deadly stampedes, fires and riots in the past with authorities having only limited ability to control the masses. Nearly a thousand new surveillance cameras were installed this month at Mecca's Grand Mosque and linked to control rooms staffed by special forces monitoring pilgrim movements for the event scheduled for August, Saudi newspapers reported. Safety during the pilgrimage is also at the heart of a dispute with the kingdom's regional arch-rival, Iran, which lost 400 of its citizens to last year's stampede. U.S. downgrades Myanmar, raises Thailand in human trafficking report WASHINGTON, June 30 (Reuters) - The United States on Thursday placed Myanmar on its list of worst human trafficking offenders for failing to do more to curb widespread abuses, and upgraded Thailand from the lowest grade for what was deemed to be an improved record. The State Department also demoted Uzbekistan to the bottom tier in its annual assessment of global efforts to combat human trafficking, just a year after giving a higher rating to the central Asian country, where a state-orchestrated forced labor system underpins its vital cotton industry. Turkmenistan, which also forces citizens into the cotton fields, joined Haiti and Sudan among the countries downgraded to the lowest level in the closely watched Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report. Belize tanker with five Russians among crew detained off Libya MOSCOW, June 30 (Reuters) - A tanker under the flag of Belize with five Russian nationals among its crew has been detained by coast guards off western Libya and taken to the military port of Tripoli, Russia's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday. Brexit spells end to EU leadership in climate diplomacy By Alissa de Carbonnel and Nina Chestney BRUSSELS/LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - Britain's exit dashes the European Union's leadership ambitions on efforts to slow climate change, leaving the bloc on the sidelines while others endorse the global pact it championed to curb greenhouse gas emissions. Last week, EU environment ministers jointly called for action "as soon as possible" to avoid being absent when the deal struck in Paris last December to limit global average temperatures below 2 degrees Celsius locks into place. Britain's vote to leave the union has disrupted everyday affairs and probably displaced climate concerns as a political priority. It also removes one of the EU's strongest voices in favour of emissions-cutting policies. The Paris Agreement will take effect once 55 nations responsible for 55 percent of man-made emissions ratify it. With India, China and the United States hastening to lock in their pledges this year, some experts predict that could even be by the next round of climate talks in November in Marrakesh. The EU's reversal from being the key broker clinching the landmark deal to lagging on its ratification and implementation would deal a blow to the bloc's credibility and influence on how the global climate rules are written. "The likely scenario is that come Marrakesh, the EU will be very embarrassed," said an EU source close to the talks. Britain has long championed the fight against global warming: it was one of the first nations to adopt a legally-binding framework to cut emissions with its Climate Change Act in 2008. At U.N. climate talks in Paris, it committed to a single EU target of reducing emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030 from 1990 levels with the 27 other EU nations. "It (Brexit) would reduce the level of clout of the EU in UN climate negotiations," said Ruth Davis, a political adviser to Greenpeace and a senior associate at E3G. "I'm afraid that overall I see that as a lose-lose." WANING CLIMATE AMBITION? This week, UN climate chief Christiana Figueres raised the prospect that the EU might need to reassess its emissions target. The climate deal requires the bloc as well as each of the nations it spoke for in Paris to ratify simultaneously. So the EU is only ever as fast as its slowest member. France and Hungary are the only EU countries to have ratified so far. Some want to wait for the EU breakdown of how the EU will share out the burden of meeting the 2030 target - a complex proposal that is due next month. On Wednesday, Britain's secretary of state for energy and climate change Amber Rudd said it would not step back from international leadership on climate change. The EU executive says it foresees no changes to the agenda, and some EU officials insist the lawmaking will press on, with Britain remaining a formal member of the EU for at least two years during the exit negotiations. "They (Britain) are in until the end," one EU diplomat said. "We continue negotiating as 28 for now." Privately, however, others see delays to the proposal on how to implement the Paris deal to avoid it being challenged later. "What do you do with the U.K., effort which was a piece of the whole puzzle?" an EU official asked. "There's uncertainty: people don't know and Brits don't know either." Meanwhile, some fear Britain's diminished voice will allow to member states such as Poland to dilute measures to curb their reliance on coal or improve air quality. Bacsinszky leads rain-hit stragglers into round at Wimbledon LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - Swiss 11th seed Timea Bacsinszky joined a clutch of stragglers who belatedly reached the second round of the women's singles at Wimbledon on Thursday as the organisers battled to get back on schedule after two days of rain delays. Fourteen first-round matches across both singles draws were still to be completed at the start of day four as drier and brighter conditions arrived. Under normal circumstances, first round matches should have been completed by Tuesday. Bacsinszky, who reached the quarter-finals last year, had spent Tuesday and Wednesday twiddling her thumbs but finally took to Court Three to beat Thailand's Luksika Kumkhum 6-4 6-2. "I can get angry about it and lose energy by getting angry, or I can just accept that's like that," the 27-year-old said. "The grand slam rhythm isn't the same as other tournaments, but I think every player competing here is what I think professional enough to be able to deal with it. "It wasn't that easy, because I had the tension of the match on Tuesday, on Wednesday, and today. So it's kind of weird." After the floods seen in Paris earlier this month when a whole day was lost at the French Open, Bacsinszky said players were getting used to watching the rain fall. "I think it has been happening all over Europe for the last -- what's happening?" she joked. Several other seeds arrived in the second round on Thursday. Czech Barbora Strycova, seeded 24, beat Anett Kontaveit of Estonia 4-6 6-4 6-4 while American 18th seed Sloane Stephens also made it. But there was disappointment for 31st seed Kristina Mladenovic of France who lost to Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 6-3 6-3. Home hope Heather Watson returned to court at one set apiece against Annika Beck but lost a decider 12-10. Hungary minister says might vote to quit EU if govt held referendum BUDAPEST, June 30 (Reuters) - The Hungarian prime minister's chief of staff said on Thursday he would vote to leave the European Union or abstain if his country ever held a referendum on membership - though he added the government had no plans for such a plebiscite. Janos Lazar said that was his personal view, not the government's. "This does not mean I am not pro-European, this means that the EU does not equal Europe ... The EU today is not capable of defending and representing Europe's values and interests," the minister in charge of Prime Minister Viktor Orban's office told journalists. CANADA STOCKS-TSX falls as oil, weak growth weigh on energy, bank stocks TORONTO, June 30 (Reuters) - Canada's main stock index slipped on Thursday as a fall in oil prices weighed on energy stocks and financials retreated on data pointing to weak domestic economic growth. The index, whose heavy concentration of gold miners helped limit the selloff in the wake of Britain's vote to leave the European Union last week, is on track for a 0.7 percent gain on the week and a 0.5 percent loss for the month. It will be closed on Friday for a national holiday. Investors pushed the price of bullion to a two-year high after the Brexit vote, while world stocks are poised for their worst month since January. At 9:54 a.m. EDT (1354 GMT), the Toronto Stock Exchange's S&P/TSX composite index was down 57 points, or 0.41 percent, at 13,979.74. There were two decliners for every advancer, and six of the index's 10 main groups were in negative territory. The most influential weights were its biggest banks, with Royal Bank of Canada down 0.5 percent to C$76.49, Toronto-Dominion Bank off 0.3 percent at C$55.40, and Bank of Nova Scotia fell 0.8 percent to C$63.29. The Canadian economy grew 0.1 percent in April from March, Statistics Canada said, paving the way for a sickly second quarter on the back of devastation caused by wildfires in Alberta. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, which on Wednesday said it was buying a U.S. bank, fell 0.9 percent to C$97.06. Brookfield Asset Management Inc fell 1.1 percent to C$42.45 after reporting a 12.13 percent stake in TerraForm Power Inc, one of the two units of bankrupt solar company SunEdison Inc. The financials group lost 0.6 percent. The energy group retreated 1.1 percent as oil slipped on rising supplies and lingering concern about the economic fallout from the Brexit referendum vote. Superior Plus Corp rose 0.7 percent to C$10.35 after terminating a deal to buy Canexus Corp. Canexus advanced 4.7 percent to C$1.34. The materials group, which includes precious and base metals miners and fertilizer companies, added 0.3 percent. Spain's Cellnex says plan to acquire Italy's INWIT is on hold BARCELONA, Spain, June 30 (Reuters) - Spanish telecoms mast company Cellnex said on Thursday there had been no progress in its bid to acquire Italy's INWIT as the disposal by owner Telecom Italia appeared to be on hold. Asked about how the bidding process was going, Cellnex's Chief Executive Tobias Martinez told reporters in Barcelona that it appeared to be on hold. "That is something that Telecom Italia would have to officially clarify, but on our side what we understand is that this project is not going ahead," Martinez said after Cellnex's annual shareholder meeting. He also confirmed the Spanish company was exploring other potential acquisitions. "This does not mean that (Telecom Italia) has abandoned (the sale) because they have not signaled that clearly. So what we are doing is working on executing our expansion plan regardless of the decision that Telecom Italia may or may not take on INWIT," Martinez said. Telecom Italia had no immediate comment. The company said in mid-May that its decision on who to sell the business to could take several months. In its bid for INWIT, Cellnex had teamed up with Italian infrastructure fund F2i and the two value the company at around 3 billion euros ($3.3 bln). Four state preschool programs profiled in a Learning Policy Institute report released today provide examples of what high-quality preschool (or the fight to achieve high-quality) looks like in real life. Washington state, North Carolina, Michigan and West Virginia all have programs that have been judged effective by outside evaluators. Still, they are not perfect. And while the report by the California-based education think tank offers several conclusions about what makes high-quality preschool programs possible, it is the individual profiles that provide the most interesting data points. For example, Michigan offers preschool programming to families with annual incomes up to 250 percent of the poverty level (thats $60,750 for a family of four). While not universal, that opens the program to more children than many other targeted programs do. Michigan also sends 80 percent of participants to full-day programs, which have been shown to have stronger positive effects on learning. Michigans program has also been shown to have an impact on graduation rates. In 2012, outside researchers found that 57.3 percent of Michigan state preschool participants graduated on time. That doesnt sound too impressive on its own. But compared to the graduation rate of non-participants, only 42.5 percent of whom graduate on time, it was notable. West Virginia has pushed quickly to make its program universal. In the 2014-15 school year, the state enrolled about 75 percent of its 4-year-old population, a much higher percentage than most states. By that measure, West Virginia looks a lot more like another, much richer, small rural state: Vermont. West Virginia has also included its preschool program, which serves 3- and 4-year-olds, in the states K-12 school aid funding formula, a step big states like California are loath to take. However, most of the largest state preschool programs, like Oklahomas, have taken similar measures. Meanwhile, Washington state appears to have quietly beaten the fade-out challenge, where preschool participants stop showing a marked improvement in math and reading compared to peers who did not attend state preschool. In fifth grade, Washington state preschool participants were still showing gains equivalent to a 7 percent boost in reading and a 6 percent increase in math scores. The state spends about $7,000 per child, all of whom are from families earning less than 110 percent of the federal poverty limit, for its half-day program. North Carolina has put much of its focus on improving quality. In the first group of programs to participate in the quality improvement initiative, classrooms scoring high on the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS), a common evaluation tool for preschool classrooms, increased from 13 percent in 1994 to 41 percent in 2002. The program also reduced the gap in average 3rd grade test scores between children eligible for free or reduced-price lunches and their peers from more affluent families. Perhaps most interesting is that few of the numbers here are earth-shattering. For North Carolina to have 41 percent of participating classrooms at high in 2002, after eight years of work on improving quality, somewhat dampens expectations of the silver bullet effect preschool is supposed to have on children. Ditto for Michigans program producing a 57 percent graduation rate. Still, the progress appears to be both measurable and steady. That all of this takes time to get right could, to my mind, be a sixth conclusion taken from this detailed report. Read the whole report, including the first five conclusions. Albanian town backs Clinton with bronze bust By Benet Koleka SARANDE, Albania, June 30 (Reuters) - Whatever the outcome of November's U.S. presidential election, the Albanian town of Sarande is backing Hillary Clinton by erecting a bronze bust to thank her for supporting Albanian causes. Albania is a staunch ally of the United States and has a history of commemorating its presidents. Woodrow Wilson has a statue there for helping foster the young Albanian state. So does George W. Bush, who visited Albania in 2007 and backed the independence of Kosovo, whose population is mainly ethnic Albanian. Bill Clinton has a statue in Kosovo in recognition of his role in the bombing of Yugoslavia in 1999 in support of Kosovo. "This bust in our most central public space is an expression of our gratitude through Mrs. Clinton to the American people and state for what they have done for the Albanian people and nation," Sarande Mayor Florjana Koka told a small crowd. It was also a tribute to Clinton, the Democratic presidential candidate, as an example to women in politics, said Koka, the first female mayor of Sarande. American tourist Jessica Rightmayer wiped away tears as the U.S. national anthem was played. "I think it is beautiful and I really think it is a very good likeness," she said. Sculptor Idriz Balani said the idea for the statue came to him when Hillary Clinton told the Albanian parliament in 2012 that Albania and the United States had together marked the Balkan country's first centenary and would be friends for another 100 years. Her "charm, elegance and vitality" had convinced him to sculpt her. Siemens ordered to compensate sick workers in Denmark COPENHAGEN, June 30 (Reuters) - Siemens has been ordered to pay compensation of almost 1 million Danish crowns ($150,000) to three people who fell ill after working at a wind turbine factory, a court in the city of Aalborg in Denmark said on Thursday. The ruling comes at time of increased focus on health conditions in the wind energy industry in Denmark and marks the first such verdict against a turbine maker there. The three former employees were ruled to have suffered conditions such as asthma, allergies and eczema after working with epoxy and isocyanates in Siemens' factory in Aalborg. Siemens Wind Power, which is set to merge with Spain's Gamesa and overtake Danish rival Vestas as the world's largest wind turbine maker, did not dispute the size of the damages, according to the statement from the court. The work with and handling of hazardous materials had not been "planned, engineered or executed in a responsible manner safety-wise," the court said in a statement, citing a lack of ventilation and inadequate protective equipment. "We will now examine the ruling in detail and assess whether to appeal it," Siemens said in a statement. The Danish labor union, 3F, which represented the workers in court, welcomed the ruling. "The court has confirmed, that it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure a healthy working environment, so that workers do not go to work and fall ill," Ulla Sorensen, political spokewoman for 3F told Reuters. Islamic State kills Christian priest in Egypt's North Sinai CAIRO, June 30 (Reuters) - Islamist militants gunned down a Christian priest in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula as he was fixing his car, the Interior Ministry and the Coptic Orthodox Church said on Thursday. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack and threatened more attacks in the future. Father Rafael Moussa of the Mar Girgis church in Arish, capital of the North Sinai province, was getting his car fixed when the gunmen shot him, the ministry said in a statement. He was on his way back from prayer, the church said. "Islamic State soldiers were able to successfully target the priest Moussa Azmi, known as Rafael, who fights Islam," the group said in a statement. Orthodox Copts make up about 10 percent of Egypt's 90 million people and are the Middle East's biggest Christian community. They have long complained of discrimination. In a separate attack in Arish, one policeman was killed and three wounded when an improvised bomb exploded as their convoy drove near a police station, the Interior Ministry said. Islamic State also claimed responsibility for that attack. Egypt is battling an insurgency that gained pace after its military overthrew President Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim Brotherhood, Egypt's oldest Islamist movement, in mid-2013 following mass protests against his rule. Thursday is the third anniversary of the mass protests which started on June 30, 2013 and led to Mursi's ouster. The insurgency, mounted by Islamic State's Egyptian branch, Sinai Province, has killed hundreds of soldiers and police and has started to attack Western targets within the country. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the former military chief who led Mursi's ouster, describes Islamist militancy as an existential threat to Egypt, an ally of the United States. Armenia's No.1 bank plans M&A ahead of IPO, Eurobond By Kira Zavyalova MOSCOW, June 30 (Reuters) - Ameriabank, Armenia's largest bank by assets, is planning a merger or acquisition deal this year, as it aims to surpass $1.5 billion in assets and $200 million in equity ahead of an eventual listing in London, a top executive told Reuters. Investment Banking Director Arno Mosikyan also said the bank was preparing to issue its first Eurobond. Ameriabank has been expanding at home after a $40 million investment by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in exchange for a 20 percent stake earlier this year. Mosikyan said in an interview the bank planned a merger or acquisition deal this year, but did not elaborate. He added it was also targeting an initial public offering (IPO) in two to three years. Ameriabank, with $127 million in capital and more than $1 billion in assets, has not appointed an adviser for the listing. Mosikyan did not provide an estimate of the potential valuation. Ameriabank previously postponed a Eurobond issue, but is now revisiting its plans amid "some positive changes on international capital markets", Mosikyan said. "We look at a three- to five-year maturity band, although most probably the debut will hit the three-year spot," he said. "We have a short list of experienced investment banks that are focused on our region and on financial institutions in particular." "We have communicated our plans and acceptable terms, and in fact wait for their signal to tap the international capital market with our debut bonds." He did not say how much the bank planned to raise through the Eurobond. In addition to the EBRD investment, the World Bank's International Finance Corporation has lent Ameriabank $50 million to help the bank boost lending to local businesses and bolster economic growth in the former Soviet republic. Japan PM urges UK, Germany to reassure markets after Brexit vote TOKYO, June 30 (Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe urged the British and German leaders on Thursday to work together to restore confidence in global financial markets after Britain's shock decision in a referendum last week to leave the European Union. The vote delivered an unprecedented blow to Europe's post-World War Two political and economic order, prompted a sharp selloff of global stocks and the British pound and sent the Japanese yen, viewed as a safe haven, soaring. The stronger yen will hamper Abe's efforts to revive Japan's economy. In a statement, the Japanese government said Abe had held separate telephone conversations with British Prime Minister David Cameron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Europe's most powerful leader. "Prime Minister Abe asked that Britain and the EU work together and send a clear message that would remove market concerns and strengthen predictability in a speedy manner," the statement said. Abe agreed with both Cameron and Merkel that the Group of Seven leading industralised nations should cooperate closely to achieve stability in global financial markets, it added. The G7 groups Japan, Germany, Britain, the United States, France, Canada and Italy. Cameron plans to step down as prime minister in the autumn following his failure to convince Britons to vote to remain in the EU Politicians condemn 'quiet scandal' of British bank closures By Andrew MacAskill and Lawrence White LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - British politicians have urged banks to provide more services in poor areas after a Reuters article showed the largest are disproportionately closing branches in the lowest-income areas while expanding in wealthier ones. The analysis published last week found more than 90 percent of the branch closures were in areas where the median household income is below the British average of 27,600 pounds ($36,600). "The research is very worrying and I hope the Treasury are aware of it," James Heappey, a Conservative member of parliament (MP), told the House of Commons in a debate on Thursday. "It is important to make sure that (banks) are not focusing their branch network on the areas where they can make the most cash, when the nation collectively bailed them out not too long ago," he said. Britain's biggest banks, HSBC, Barclays, Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group , have been steadily shrinking their branch networks to cut costs while investing in online and mobile banking services. MPs in the debate said Britain should consider emulating the United States in requiring banks to maintain branches and lending in poorer areas. The U.S. Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 is designed to reduce discriminatory lending by requiring banks to lend in communities where they are chartered. The U.S. law can block the opening of new branches elsewhere if a bank does not comply. The major banks have all said they close branches based on declining footfall, as consumers move to online banking, and that they study the impact of such closures carefully. RBS, Lloyds and Barclays declined to comment for this story. A spokesman for HSBC said the bank has launched a digital service that allows small businesses to apply for loans without visiting a branch. Christian Matheson, a Labour member of parliament, said the Reuters study, which covered the year to April, showed a crisis. "There can be no more cavalier closures of bank branches, which in turn damage the local economy," Matheson said. "In 2008 we apparently learnt that some big banks are too big to fail. Perhaps the message today is that some local banks are too important to local communities to close." MPs called in the debate for banks to share branches in smaller communities, and to be more transparent about closures. Closures have more than halved lending growth to small businesses in the areas affected, separate research released on Thursday showed. Campaign group Move Your Money estimated lending growth to small local businesses was down by 63 percent in towns and villages that had lost a bank branch. A spokesman for the British Bankers' Association (BBA) said banks have signed up to protocols aimed at minimising the impact of branch closures, including partnering with post offices to offer services and carrying out impact studies before closures. "Banks are determined to leave no one behind," he said. But MP for Tottenham David Lammy said banks were using their Access to Banking Protocol as a 'Trojan horse' to distract from closures. This "is a quiet scandal and tragedy taking place across our country," Lammy said in Thursday's debate. Ukraine central bank flagged cyber-attack in April: memo KIEV, June 30 (Reuters) - Ukraine's central bank urged banks to review security procedures in April, saying a Ukrainian bank had been targeted in a cyber attack that sought to steal money using fraudulent SWIFT transfers, according to a confidential message obtained by Reuters. The warning, issued on April 28, did not identify the bank or say if the attempt was successful in stealing money. The memo to banks containing the warning did say though that the attack on the Ukrainian bank was similar to one that had occurred more than a month earlier in Bangladesh. In that incident, Bangladesh's central bank disclosed that it had been the victim of a cyber attack that stole tens of millions of dollars using fraudulent SWIFT wire transfer requests. Similar attacks have occurred in Ecuador and Vietnam. Russia cautious on gas link to Turkey despite thaw in relations By Vladimir Soldatkin and Denis Pinchuk MOSCOW, June 30 (Reuters) - Russian officials were cautious on Thursday about revisiting plans for the construction of an underwater gas link to Turkey, despite a breakthrough in relations between Moscow and Ankara. Russia broke virtually all economic ties and banned tourists from visiting Turkish Mediterranean resorts after a Turkish jet downed a Russian plane on a mission in Syria last November. On Wednesday, after Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan expressed regret in a letter to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, Moscow pledged to revive mutual relations. Russia has long harboured plans to build a pipeline along the bed of the Black Sea to Turkey and then onto southern Europe bypassing Ukraine - the main route of Russian gas to Europe - due its numerous disputes with Kiev, including over gas prices. The Kremlin said on Thursday it was premature to say whether the pipeline project named TurkStream, which was shelved after the Russian bomber was downed, would be resumed. "It's too early to say now what routes will finally be chosen and enter a development stage," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call. Russian gas supplies to Europe, where state-controlled giant Gazprom accounts for a third of supplies, have been increasingly politicised over Moscow's role in Ukraine. Europe, meanwhile, has been looking for other fuel sources, such as liquefied natural gas from Asia and the United States. Turkey used to be Russia's second-largest buyer of gas after Germany but slipped to third place this year behind Italy. Gazprom Chief Executive Officer Alexei Miller said the European Commission should first give TurkStream priority status while Energy Minister Alexander Novak said the issue was about the readiness of Europe and Turkey to implement the project. Russia had initially planned to send about 63 billion cubic metres (bcm) of gas year via the so-called South Stream pipeline to Bulgaria but switched the destination to Turkey due to resistance from Europe. Deutsche Bank lags as European shares extend post-Brexit bounce By Danilo Masoni MILAN, June 30 (Reuters) - European shares rose for a third straight session on Thursday, with expectations of central bank stimulus helping ease jitters over Britain's vote last week to exit the European Union. Deutsche Bank however fell to an all-time low after its U.S. unit failed stress tests and the IMF said the German bank was the biggest potential risk to the wider financial system. The pan-European STOXX 600 index rose 1 percent, reversing initial weakness. The index ended June with its worst monthly performance since January and is still 4.8 percent below levels reached before the shock UK vote, which triggered worries about political risk in Europe, hitting bank stocks. "Investors are expecting more central bank stimulus and this explains why European shares are rebounding," said Yann Quelenn, Swissquote Bank market analyst in Geneva. The UK'S FTSE closed at its highest level for 2016, having completely erased the Brexit sell-off, boosted late in the session by comments from Bank of England Governor Mark Carney who said the central bank would probably need to pump more stimulus into Britain's economy. Swissquote's Quelenn said bank stocks were however likely to remain under pressure and that any more sign of EU dislocation could weigh particularly on Italian and German lenders. "Italian banks have a bad loan problem, while Germans are seen as fragile due to their high derivative exposure," he said. Deutsche Bank fell 2.7 percent after touching 12.05 euros, an all-time intraday low. The U.S. Federal Reserve said late on Wednesday that its U.S. unit had failed stress tests yet again this year because of poor risk management and financial planning, not for lack of capital. The International Monetary Fund also delivered a blow to Germany's biggest bank by saying its links to the world's largest lenders made it a bigger potential risk to the wider financial system than any other global bank. Italian lenders reversed initial weakness with the bank sector index ending up 2.1 percent after the European Commission authorised a six-month guarantee scheme to provide liquidity to solvent banks in case of need. UniCredit rose 2.3 percent as it picked Jean Pierre Mustier to become its new CEO, a choice likely to lead to a multi-billion-euro capital increase and asset sales to boost the bank's financial strength. Royal Bank of Scotland, down more 30 percent since the Brexit vote, fell another 4.7 percent after Morgan Stanley cut its rating on the stock to "equal weight" from "overweight". Fire in Kuwait villa kills nine people DOHA, June 30 (Reuters) - A fire which broke out at a villa housing expatriate workers in Kuwait on Thursday killed nine Asian residents including children and injured 23, a Fire Service Directorate spokesman said. Six people, at least one of whom was a child, suffocated to death after a blaze tore through a house that had been subdivided into multiple residences in Farwaniya, a suburb 15 km (10 miles) south of Kuwait City, and three others died from injuries in hospital, the spokesman said. He did not give details of the victims' nationalities or identities. He said one firefighter had been seriously injured. Alabama isnt synonymous with educational excellence. According to Usnews.com , Alabama high schools rank 37th in the nation and the state was one of eight to receive a grade of D+ or less from the Quality Counts 2016 report . From school finance to student achievement , Alabama has traditionally lagged behind other states. These rankings, along with student achievement rates, have had an adverse impact on the states job market. In an attempt to address the issue in a public forum, some of the states education leaders got together to talk jobs and if the states population is trained for them. At Gadsden State Community College, some of Alabamas most important education officials held a panel discussion about these important issues. The opinions varied, depending on who was talking, but all the leaders seemed to agree that more is needed to get Alabamians off to work. Moreover, the state has to do a better job of training its residents for jobs that require more than just a high school diploma. According to information presented by AL.com , the state has more than 500,000 residents that do not possess job skills that are easily sold to employers. Thats not only problematic for a state trying to lure more businesses, but it is even worse for job seekers. One area that threads jobs and education together is poverty, and Alabama Community College System Chancellor Mark Heinrich mentioned how poverty impacts an individuals prospects of attaining an education and eventually landing a job. In Alabama, one in four kids live in poverty. By way of a new report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation , Alabama also ranks 48th nationally in education. The connection between the two is clear. Education isnt always the great equalizer that its presented as either, as privilege and wealth are solid indicators as to how successful students may be as adults. But at least those in charge of education in Alabama are talking about how to get more residents to work. Estimate of U.S. transgender adults doubles amid debate on rights - study By Sebastien Malo NEW YORK, June 30 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Twice as many U.S. adults identify as transgender than was previously thought, researchers said on Thursday, in a finding that could put pressure on lawmakers to address discrimination against transgender people. Some 1.4 million of U.S. adults, or 0.6 percent of the country's adult population, are thought to identify as transgender, according to a study by the Williams Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles. The new estimate - double the group's previous figure which was based on data from roughly 10 years ago - signals to lawmakers that demands for transgender rights will not go away, said co-author of the study Gary J. Gates. Lawmakers across the United States are currently grappling with whether to allow transgender Americans to use public restrooms that match their gender identities. Meanwhile, the killing of 49 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, earlier this month, has shaken members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community and prompted a debate about the way Americans view LGBT people. "Having these numbers allows policymakers to make the case that these are people who are in your state, in your district, they are your friends and neighbor," Gates told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in a phone interview. "It does tell policymakers that they're going to have to figure this out." To calculate the new figure, researchers from the Williams Institute, a research center focused on LGBT law and policy, used 2014 state-level surveys as well as U.S. Census data. The new estimate was the most accurate the research center had produced thanks to a rapidly growing number of states asking residents in surveys if they are transgender, providing researchers with previously inexistent data, Gates said. Data that identifies transgender individuals from 19 state-level surveys were used to come up with the new estimate, compared to just two for the previous estimate. Estimates for the remaining 31 states were drawn using the U.S. Census and information about the demographic characteristics of transgender people. The highest percentage of transgender people was found in traditionally liberal Hawaii and California. In conservative North Dakota, the percentage of transgender people were half the national estimate. Florida, where the Orlando massacre took place, ranked sixth in the country in terms of the percentage of estimated transgender people living there. Hate crime reports surge in Britain after divisive EU referendum, police say By William James LONDON, June 30 (Reuters) - The number of hate crimes reported to British police online, including some assaults, has increased by more than 500 percent in the week after the country voted to leave the European Union, a senior police chief said on Thursday. The number of hate crimes reported to police through its online portal - one of several ways incidents can be reported - was 331 since the vote, compared with a weekly average of 63, said Sara Thornton, chair of the National Police Chiefs' Council. The increase supports anecdotal evidence of abuse towards Muslims and Eastern Europeans following the referendum, in which concern about immigration drove many people to vote to leave the 28-country EU. "I have been shocked and disgusted at some of the cases of racial or anti-immigrant abuse that have been reported this week," Thornton said in a statement posted online. "Migrants are reporting verbal abuse, negative social media commentary including xenophobic language, anti-migrant leafleting and, in very limited numbers, physical assaults." Critics accuse some in the "Leave" campaign of stoking xenophobia and racism, as part of a message that leaving the EU would allow Britain to stop uncontrolled immigration, which many Britons blame for putting pressure on jobs and public services. Thornton said all British police forces would now be asked to provide weekly data on such crimes to build a clear picture of the scale of the problem. On Wednesday, Prime Minister David Cameron promised to clamp down on hate crime after a number of lawmakers expressed concern about reported incidents in their regions. The issue was also raised at a meeting of EU leaders in Brussels. The government has promised extra funding to tackle hate crime, to improve reporting of offences and to provide security at potentially vulnerable institutions. Argentina corruption cops search properties of ex-leader Fernandez BUENOS AIRES, June 30 (Reuters) - Argentine police searched properties of former President Cristina Fernandez on Thursday as part of an investigation into possible corruption during her two-term administration, which ended in December with the inauguration of Mauricio Macri. Authorities are looking for documents related to a case that accuses Fernandez of illegal enrichment using a family real estate company called Los Sauces, state press agency Telam said. Local television showed images of the searches being conducted. The judge and investigators in the case could not be reached for comment. "It has been a while, decades I would say, since we've seen such an abuse of power and political persecution," Fernandez posted on Twitter. The properties in question are located in three different parts of Patagonia: Rio Gallegos, El Calafate and El Chalten, Telam said. Television also broadcast a search of the municipal government office of El Calafate, where Los Sauces is based. In a separate case, Fernandez was indicted in May on charges that she was responsible for central bank irregularities in the futures market. After testifying in that case, she also accused the current administration of political persecution. Macri's government has opened investigations into alleged corruption during Fernandez's 2007-15 presidency. Portugal gets four offers in new attempt to sell Novo Banco LISBON, June 30 (Reuters) - Portugal's central bank received four offers for Novo Banco, the "good bank" successor to Banco Espirito Santo after a state rescue in 2014, by the Thursday afternoon deadline, it said in a statement, without naming the institutions. The Bank of Portugal's first attempt to sell the lender, and recover billions of euros injected into it, failed last year despite strong initial interest. On Thursday it said it will analyse the new offers and decide whether to sell the lender to a strategic investor or proceed to sell it via the stock market. Sources linked to the process said earlier that Portuguese banks Millennium bcp, Banco BPI, the local unit of Spain's Santander, U.S. fund Apollo Global Management, Lone Star Funds and private equity firm Centerbridge had accessed Novo Banco books available to potential bidders. But on Thursday sources said that neither Millennium bcp nor Santander-Totta presented bids. CEO of Millennium, Nuno Amado, said on Tuesday that Britain's vote to leave the European Union, which caused market turmoil, made Thursday's deadline for non-binding bids too tight. In the first attempt to sell the bank, which ultimately failed as offers came in too low, as many as seven bidders entered the initial phase with non-binding bids. In the 2014 rescue, Portugal injected 4.9 billion euros ($5.4 bln) into Novo Banco after its predecessor crumbled under the debts of its founding Espirito Santo family. Analysts say Novo Banco still faces high litigation risks, which should significantly limit any bids. In April, a group of asset managers started legal action against the central bank over heavy losses on nearly 2 billion euros of bonds in Novo Banco that were moved back to Banco Espirito Santo's (BES) "bad bank". Treasury Secretary Ricardo Mourinho Felix said recently that all options were open on Novo Banco, including keeping it in state hands, if that would mean smaller costs to taxpayers in the medium term. The Socialist government's leftist allies in parliament want the bank to remain public. Nigeria's Buhari urges Delta leaders to calm region after attacks ABUJA, June 30 (Reuters) - Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday urged community leaders from the Niger Delta to pacify people in the restive southern region, which has been hit by a series of attacks on oil and gas facilities in the last few months. Nigeria, an OPEC member which was until recently Africa's biggest oil producer, relies on crude sales for around 70 percent of national income. Most of its oil comes from the impoverished swampland Delta region. Militants, whose attacks pushed oil production to 30-year lows in recent weeks, have called for a greater share of the country's oil wealth to be passed on to the region's communities and for authorities to clean up areas blighted by oil spills. "When you get together with other leaders, please pacify the people," Buhari told a delegation of community leaders at his residence in the capital, Abuja, adding that he wanted "as much intelligence as possible on the situation in the Niger Delta". "We intend to rebuild this country," said Buhari. "A lot of damage has been done, so I want you to tell the people to be patient." Comments made to the group during the meeting, which lasted around an hour, were detailed in an emailed statement issued by the presidency titled "We'll rebuild the Niger Delta". Earlier this month it was announced that the government's military campaign in the Delta would be scaled down, after having been built up a few weeks earlier, to pursue talks with militants. Last week petroleum ministry sources said a month-long truce had been agreed with militants but the Niger Delta Avengers, who have claimed responsibility for most attacks, later said they did not "remember" agreeing to a ceasefire. However, the Avengers have not carried out an attack since June 16. Following Thursday's meeting, Buhari's spokesman Femi Adesina said an amnesty agreed in 2009 to end a previous insurgency was "being studied with a view to determining what had been fulfilled". If there were any outstanding issues, these would be addressed, he said. The president angered former militants earlier this year when he cut the budget assigned to the amnesty programme, which offered militants cash and job training in exchange for stopping attacks, by two-thirds. Saudi Arabia 'alarmed and outraged' by rights groups' criticism By Louis Charbonneau UNITED NATIONS, June 30 (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia on Thursday said it was "alarmed and outraged" by a call from Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch for the kingdom to be suspended from the U.N. Human Rights Council until a Saudi-led military coalition stops killing civilians in Yemen. The two human rights advocacy groups said the Saudis have had "an appalling record of violations in Yemen while a Human Rights Council member." Saudi Arabia is in its final year of a three-year term on the 47-member Human Rights Council. A Saudi-led coalition began an air campaign in Yemen in March 2015 to defeat Iran-allied Houthi rebels. "We were alarmed and outraged at Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch's statement accusing Saudi Arabia of unlawful attacks in Yemen," the Saudi U.N. mission said in a statement. "Saudi Arabia and the coalition have complied with international law at every stage in the campaign to restore Yemen's legitimate government," it said, adding that the coalition's main goal was "the protection of civilians." "We deeply regret the loss of any civilian life," the statement said. A two-third majority vote by the 193-member U.N. General Assembly can suspend a country from the Geneva-based U.N. Human Rights Council for persistently committing gross and systematic violations of human rights during its membership. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International said they had documented 69 unlawful air strikes, some of which may amount to war crimes, in Yemen by the coalition in which at least 913 civilians were killed. The United Nations briefly blacklisted the Saudi coalition this month for killing children in Yemen. However, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon succumbed to what he described as unacceptable pressure and removed the coalition from the blacklist pending a joint review. "We have created an independent team of experts tasked with assessing such cases and developing enhanced targeting mechanisms to ensure the safety and protection of civilians," the Saudi statement said. It added: "Attempts at delegitimizing Saudi Arabia's efforts to restore stability and find a sustainable political solution by these organizations run counter to their very mission and risks peace and security in Yemen and the world." U.N. sanctions monitors said in January that the coalition had targeted civilians in Yemen and that some of the attacks could be crimes against humanity. IMF says some small countries could suffer as banks cut ties By David Lawder WASHINGTON, June 30 (Reuters) - Major global banks' elimination of correspondent banking relationships could threaten growth and financial stability in some small countries, the International Monetary Fund said in a report released on Thursday. IMF researchers found that smaller states in Africa, the Caribbean, Central Asia and Pacific islands have been among the most affected by global banks' decisions to withdraw some of these relationships, known as CBRs. Among reasons for the moves, they cited banks' desire to reduce risks associated with money-laundering or terrorism financing, to comply with international sanctions or reduce regulatory compliance costs that had made such business unattractive. The reductions in CBRs could lead to fewer channels for some countries to receive remittances from overseas workers and for business transactions in dollars or other reserve currencies, and could ultimately hamper lending and economic growth. In Belize, the IMF study showed that only two of the nine domestic and international banks serving the country have managed to maintain full correspondent banking relationships, forcing others to turn to non-bank providers of payment services. It added that even Belize's central bank has been cut off by two global banks. Termination of money transfer services in small Pacific states due to anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism finance compliance has hurt foreign remittances, undermined financial inclusion and increased the hand-carrying of cash in the region, the IMF study said. In some countries, such as Samoa, remittances amount to one-fifth of gross domestic product. To address the issue, the IMF researchers said that regulators in major economies should pursue greater outreach to banks to make clear their expectations for anti-money laundering compliance and address legal impediments to continuing CBR arrangements. Regulation in smaller jurisdiction should be strengthened and brought in line with international standards, which would help reduce risks. The IMF said industry initiatives can help mitigate compliance costs associated with CBRs. It said one potential solution would be for global banks to bundle other financial services, such as credit card clearing, letters of credit and wealth management products with CBRs to spread compliance costs over more services. Massachusetts judge asks about Sumner Redstone's condition in hearing By Jessica Toonkel June 30 (Reuters) - A Massachusetts judge presiding over a case hinging on Sumner Redstone's mental condition on Thursday peppered attorneys on both sides of the dispute with questions about the 93-year-old media mogul's state of mind and how he communicates with people. Judge George Phelan decided, however, not to hear arguments about whether Redstone should be subject to a medical examination immediately, and did not rule on whether the case should continue in Massachusetts - or even if it should continue at all - leaving the legal tussle over Redstone's $40 billion media empire no closer to being resolved. "Obviously I have a lot of information to digest in just the motion to dismiss itself," Phelan said on Thursday after a hearing that lasted more than five hours. "It's going to take me a while to grasp all of that." The hearing was the latest episode in the legal wrangle over the fate of Redstone's controlling stake in Viacom Inc and CBS Corp, which has been playing out on both U.S. coasts over the past several months. The main issue before Phelan on Thursday was whether Redstone knew what he was doing when he removed Viacom Chief Executive Philippe Dauman and Viacom board member George Abrams from the seven-person trust that will control Redstone's holdings when he dies or is incapacitated. The trust, officially called the Sumner M. Redstone National Amusements Inc Trust, owns about 80 percent of Redstone's privately held movie theater company, National Amusements Inc, which in turn owns 80 percent of the voting rights in both Viacom and CBS. After their removal from the trust, Dauman and Abrams claimed in a lawsuit in the Massachusetts court that Redstone suffers from dementia, impaired cognition, a slowness of mental processing, a loss of memory, apathy, depression and has been manipulated by his daughter, Shari Redstone. Sumner Redstone has denied that in court filings. In an effort to shed light on the matter, Phelan asked attorneys at Thursday's hearing how Redstone communicated with his secretary, how his speech therapist understood what he was saying and whether she had expertise in doing so. "Since October 2015, how does information get to Sumner Redstone ... who is providing it?" Phelan asked attorneys for Sumner and Shari Redstone. He asked if intermediaries were involved, and how Redstone's directions are conveyed to outside people. The judge also asked if there was a medical test that could be used to gauge Redstone's ability to make decisions about adding and removing members of his trust if the case goes to trial. The other issue in front of Phelan on Thursday was whether the case should be handled in Massachusetts, where National Amusements is based and where Redstone is from and lived for years, or in California, where he currently resides. Redstone's attorneys said the case should be moved as most of the witnesses, including all of Redstone's nurses, were in California. Phelan noted that their testimony could be taken through affidavits. The outcome of the Massachusetts court case, and who ends up with control over the trust, will have wide-ranging implications for Viacom and CBS shareholders and could result in changes at the top of both companies, possibly through mergers and acquisitions. In May, Redstone defeated a similar mental competence lawsuit brought by an ex-girlfriend, Manuela Herzer, in a Los Angeles state court. That case had lasted several months before Redstone eventually stated his wishes under oath. Once he did, the judge quickly dismissed the case. Phelan at one point seemed to question the California's judge's decision in that case and asked to see all of the depositions from both Herzer and Shari Redstone that were taken into account during that trial. Phelan also asked to see the divorce agreement between Sumner Redstone and his ex-wife, Phyllis Redstone, through which the trust was created. The result of the Massachusetts case also has implications for Viacom's board. Earlier this month, Redstone and National Amusements moved to oust five of Viacom's directors, including Dauman and lead independent director Frederic Salerno, asking a court in Delaware - the state where Viacom is incorporated - to rule that the changes were valid. That same day, Salerno fired back with is own lawsuit challenging the removal. Volkswagen believes it can fix 85,000 polluting U.S. vehicles By Alexandria Sage and David Shepardson SAN FRANCISCO/WASHINGTON, June 30 (Reuters) - A lawyer for Volkswagen AG said at a court hearing Thursday the German automaker believed it could fix 85,000 polluting 3.0-liter VW, Audi and Porsche diesel cars and SUVs, a move that could help the company avoid a second pricey vehicle buyback. Separately, a Justice Department lawyer, Joshua Van Eaton, said discussions and tests were being conducted to resolve the fate of those vehicles, which could take months to rectify. At the hearing, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer did not set a formal deadline to fix those vehicles, but set an Aug. 25 status hearing to get an update. Earlier this week, VW agreed to spend up to $10.033 billion to buy back 475,000 2.0-liter diesel cars that emit up to 40 times the allowed level of pollution, and fix them if regulators approve it. VW also agreed to spend $4.7 billion on zero-emission vehicle efforts and diesel offset programs and $603 million to settle lawsuits with 44 U.S. states. If VW were required to buy back the larger, more expensive 3.0-liter vehicles, it could add billions to its costs. VW lawyer Robert Giuffra said the automaker believed the 3.0-liter vehicles were fixable and that the fix will not be "complicated" or negatively impact the vehicles' performance. The testing is to ensure the durability of the proposed fix, he said. "The company believes that we can fix the 3.0 liter to the standards to which those cars were originally certified," Giuffra said. Van Eaton said the talks were highly technical and it "takes time to be fully confident that whatever is being proposed is a technically sound solution." Environmental Protection Agency spokesman Nick Conger said the agency continues "to investigate the problems with the 3.0 liter diesel vehicles. We want to get it right, so we will explore solutions that are technically sound and a fair deal for consumers." He did not say if EPA is pursuing a buyback offer for 3.0 liter owners. Breyer will hold a July 26 hearing on the 2.0-liter agreements and could grant final approval to start buybacks early as October. The 3.0-liter vehicles did not have the same "defeat device" that the 2.0-liter vehicles used but had undeclared auxiliary emissions-control devices that allowed them to emit up to nine times the legally allowed level of pollution, much less than the 2.0-liter vehicles. VW has been barred since November from selling new diesel 3.0-liter vehicles in the United States. Blocking India's bid for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) is part of China's long-term strategic impulse. Beijing sees India as the third pivot in an emerging tripolar world. The United States and China will contest the first half of the 21st century just as Britain and Germany contested the first half of the 20th century. India, poorer and weaker than both the US and China, will nevertheless be the balancing force in this triangular geopolitical relationship. It will have the world's third largest economy and military within the next 20 years. Bulwark Beijing knows this. So does Washington. For America, India is a bulwark against a rising China. For China, India needs to be kept in check. It does not want to confront two powerful democracies, India and America, at once. India, therefore, must be shown its place. Blocking India's NSG membership is only a small part of Beijing's India-specific strategy. A larger part is to encourage a renegade nation like Pakistan to keep India off-balance. China's illegal occupation of swathes of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) through which the Pakistan-China economic corridor will pass is a key element of this strategy. India's China policy has traditionally been anaemic and poorly thought-through. India's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru gifted to China the permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) India was offered as former foreign secretary MK Rasgotra confirms in his excellent new book, A Life in Diplomacy. Nehru followed it up with a provocative "forward policy" on the Chinese border that drew a strong response from Beijing, leading to India's humiliating defeat in the 1962 War. Over the next 50 years, India's China policy oscillated between strong words and weak action. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and national security adviser Ajit Doval have tried to change the grammar of that policy. After two years, however, not much has changed. China is a bully. It has alienated almost every east Asian country with its aggressive manoeuvres in the South China Sea. It has territorial disputes (over the Senkaku islands) with Japan. It fought, and lost, a short war with tiny, plucky Vietnam in 1979. India though has four important levers. It must use each with calibrated robustness. (Reuters) Few Asian countries have cordial relations with China. Just as Pakistan is distrusted by its neighbours - Afghanistan, Iran, Bangladesh and India - China is distrusted by its east Asian neighbours. India though has four important levers. It must use each with calibrated robustness. First, Tibet. Nehru was right to give refuge in Dharamsala to the Dalai Lama and his followers in 1959. While the Dalai Lama is barred from making political statements as part of this agreement, India is not. Tibet has international resonance. India must leverage this. Despite Chinese protests, US President Barack Obama has met the Dalai Lama thrice in his term so far. Delhi must host more conferences for free-Tibet activists. Key Uyghur dissidents were recently denied visas at a conference in Dharamsala on Tibet and Xinjiang due to Interpol's red corner notices against them. However, free-Tibet activism should now receive enthusiastic Indian support. China's appalling human rights record in Tibet and Xinjiang must be highlighted. Taiwan The second lever is Taiwan. The new government in Taipei is anti-Beijing. Previous Taiwanese governments were in regular talks with Beijing, largely agreeing on the sensitive "one-China" concept. The new Taiwanese president, Tsai Ing Wen, took office in May 2016 after a landslide win and has suspended rapprochement talks with China. According to one report, "Beijing is highly suspicious of Tsai, whose Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which replaced the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang (KMT) party in government, is traditionally pro-independence, and has warned her against any attempt at a breakaway." India must deepen its ties with Taiwan despite not having formal diplomatic relations with it. The US, too, has no diplomatic relations with Taiwan. However, it legislated a Taiwan Relations Act through which it has developed close economic, security, cultural and political ties with Taipei. With an anti-China government now in place in Taiwan for the first time in two decades, this is the right time to strengthen India's relationship with Taipei as part of its "Act East" policy. This must also embrace the littoral states of the South China Sea, especially China's bete noire Vietnam. Economy Third, with China's economy slowing, Beijing can no longer be a profligate bankroller of Pakistan's proxy terrorism. As Ruchir Sharma writes in his new book, The Rise and Fall of Nations, China is staring a banking and real estate crisis in the face. The Chinese growth story will be further eroded as the country greys and ages, triggering a ticking demographic time bomb. Fourth, China's Muslim-dominated province Xinjiang has a population of restive Uyghurs. They are the principal source of terrorism in China. Uyghurs recently met in India to press their case for autonomy in Xinjiang. India can offer them moral support just as China provides such support to Pakistan in PoK. These four elements - Tibet, Taiwan, China's faltering economy and Xinjiang - provide enough leverage to India to keep China off-balance in the same way Beijing does India. China exploits the weak but respects the strong. PM Modi must jettison decades of India's traditional appease-China diplomacy. It hasn't worked, as events at the NSG plenary in Seoul showed, and it won't work in the future either. The time for playing nice with President Xi Jinping is over. It's time to play a game Beijing understands: hardball. The Shan language sign at Tachilek covered with a tarpaulin The Shan language sign at Tachilek covered with a tarpaulin It appears that someone threw gasoline on the sign and set it on fire. The Shan State Development Affairs Minister recently gave permission to allow road signs written in Shan to be erected in the state. Tachileik residents made a new sign in Shan earlier this month, but local authorities ordered that this be removed so the sign was covered with a tarpaulin. Sai Kyaw, a resident of Tachileik said: The signboard was covered with a green cloth on the 18th [June]. We even went there to see it. The words in the Shan language have been removed since then. There are mostly military people residing in the area. Nobody would dare to do this unless they know the area. It is not yet known who burned the sign and their reasons for burning the sign. The Tachileik Development Affairs Departments deputy director, U Kyaw Moe Tun, told the Tachileik News Agency on 18 June that the entry sign in Tachileik had been built after the Shan State Minister of Development Affairs ordered all town entry signs in the Shan State to be written in both Burmese and Shan languages as part of the 100 day project of the Shan State Development Affairs Department. A spokesperson for the Shan State Chief Minister U Lin Htut told the Mynmar Times that he was unaware of the details relating to the sign. He said: That wasnt a Shan State project. It was a Municipal Development Committee ministers project. I dont know the situation. Translated by Thida Linn In the latest in a series of terrorist attacks in Turkey since last year, Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport - Europe's third busiest - was hit by three suicide bombers. According to the official figures, 41 people have died and 239 are injured. There are 13 foreigner nationals among the dead. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said initial investigations pointed towards the so-called Islamic State (ISIS), though the terrorist group has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. While it is a heinous attack against innocent civilians by a group of mindless terrorists which can happen anywhere in the world, the Turkish authorities are not in a position to simply express anger, condemn and vow to counter the scourge of terrorism in the future. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. (Reuters) To understand what is happening in Turkey now, it is important to analyse the developments that have unfolded there since the June 7, 2015 general election. The results of the election were refreshing for democracy campaigners and rights activists as a pro-Kurdish political party, People's Democratic Party (HDP) made into the parliament for the first time in Turkish republican history. Notably, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has dominated Turkish politics for over a decade, strongly demanded a powerful presidential system in the country since becoming president in 2014. The Justice and Development Party (AKP) - the party he founded - was determined to secure enough seats in the parliament to call a referendum on changing country's constitution and bringing in a presidential system as demanded by Erdogan. But the rise of HDP prevented it from achieving that goal. The ruling AKP's vote share declined by eight per cent and for the first time in 13 years it lost its parliamentary majority. The AKP could have formed a government in coalition with any of the three other political parties (CHP, MHP and HDP) which entered the parliament with it. But it chose not to do so. In the following days, clashes between Turkish military and country's Kurdish insurgent group Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) started. With it, an ugly campaign to demonise the HDP was also launched. The AKP claimed that the HDP has direct links with the PKK in order to decrease its newly increased popularity. During the negotiations to form a coalition government and afterwards the AKP-led government continued to be in power as the interim government. Meanwhile, it channelled all its energy and resources in bombing and conducting military operations in the Kurdish dominated south-eastern part of the country and in northern Iraq - notably at the cost of its ongoing struggle against the ISIS. Ataturk attack: The aftermath. (Reuters) In other words, the AKP government chose to de-escalate its struggle against the monstrous ISIS to start a new, completely unnecessary war against the PKK because it suited its political calculations. As a consequence of such a self-serving decision by the AKP, Turkey became a target of both the ISIS and PKK simultaneously. The security vacuum created following such an approach has rendered Turkish security apparatus indefensible against the ISIS and incompetent against the PKK. As a result, in just over one year, 17 terrorist attacks have taken place all over the country claiming almost 300 lives, and injuring over 1,000 people. It has become increasingly clear that the AKP government and President Erdogan are ready to do almost anything to hold on to power. It's bad enough that the reptilian power elite routinely release mind-numbing chemicals into the atmosphere in order to pacify Earth's domesticated primates. Now they're adding insult to injury by installing pro-chemtrail propaganda disguised as art on Mariott hotel room walls. It's an outrage, and activists who have thus far managed to evade the deleterious effects of the gas are doing something about it, in the form of a Change.org petition. I'm cheering them on from my lair in a secret deep underground military base. From the petition: Marriott's newly decorated "chemtrail rooms" promote chemtrails and geoengineering by making guests grow accustomed to the sight of chemtrails (as if this is a natural occurrence!) This is outrageous and they should not be promoting this government secret agenda. Please sign to boycott Marriott and raise awareness of the global issue of chemtrails. Whether intentional or unintentional, promotion by Marriott and corporate America will not be tolerated, or the public will hit where it hurtsin their wallets. [via] I first read George RR Martin's 1982 vampire novel Fevre Dream as a young teenager, around the time I was also discovering Anne Rice and a host of other "contemporary" vampire novels who were reinventing the genre; now, decades later, I've been transported anew to the slavery-haunted riverboat where Joshua York and Abner Marsh tried to tame the ancient vampire before it was too late. Abner Marsh was once a riverboat man, proprietor of the thriving Fevre River Packet Company until a boiler explosion and a boat-wrecking winter reduced his mighty fleet to a single, outdated boat. With his dreams smashed, York haunts the rooming houses of St Louis, hoping to avoid the other captains who might pity him. Until, one night, he is summoned to the table of Joshua York, a rich, mysterious gentleman who offers to buy a half-stake in Marsh's nearly bankrupt company for an unbelievable sum, and to rebuild its glory by commissioning the Fevre Dream, the fastest, most beautiful ship ever seen on the Mississippi. York's only condition is that Marsh never question his orders, no matter how mysterious they may be. York, of course, is a vampire but not any vampire. A reformer and scientist, York is determined to end the ancient enmity between his people of the night and the "cattle" humans who have hunted them nearly to extinction. York has created an elixir that can substitute for human blood when the terrible thirst is on his people, and he is determined to travel the length of America's rivers, rooting out his people where they have gone to ground, and rescue them from their eternity of murder, hiding, and terrible thirst. York's plan pits him against Damon Julian, an ancient, cruel vampire who has no urge to reform who recoils in revulsion at the very thought. Between Julian and York are the humans they have enlisted to their causes: Abner Marsh, who stands as an equal partner; and slave overseer Sour Billy Tipton, one of literature's great Renfields, who believes Julian's promises to transform him someday. Set in the antebellum south, Fevre Dream is a story about dehumanization and the cruelty that comes with it, with slavery never out of the frame and never far from the thematic center of the tale. But this isn't a mere parable: Martin was already a master storyteller in 1982, and while there's plenty of depth and resonance to this story, it's first and foremost a vampire tale: bloody, brooding, dark, and caught up with the question of modernity versus superstition, with violence worthy of any Red Wedding. My most recent re-read was via the 2013 audio edition, which was voiced by Game of Thrones actor Ron Donachie (Rodrik Cassel), whose audio edition was part of a larger project to bring back all of Martin's backlist with readings by GoT cast-members (holy shit, I can't wait for the audio of The Armageddon Rag, which is tied with Lewis Shiner's Glimpses as the all-time greatest rock-n-roll horror novel). Donachie's mild Scottish accent effortlessly morphed into the cultured tones of the vampires, the rough burr of the riverboat men, and the voices of all the various characters from enslaved people to cruel overseers. Fevre Dream [George RR Martin/Bantam] (Banner image: Frances F. Palmer, Midnight Race On The Mississippi, Currier & Ives, New York, N.Y., 1860 & 1875) See sample pages from this book at Wink. Irving Harper: Works in Paper by Irving Harper (artist) and Michael Maharam (editor) Skira Rizzoli 2013, 176 pages, 8.3 x 10.3 x 1.1 inches $33 Buy a copy on Amazon Anyone familiar with the American version of the hit comedy The Office might remember a scene in which Michael Scott attends an art show where Pam exhibits her paintings. Struck by a painting she made of the office building, Michael buys it and muses, "It is a message. It is an inspiration. It is a source of beauty. And without paper, it could not have happened." The quote could just as easily be said of famed designer Irving Harper, an alchemist who transforms paper into works of wonder. One look at Irving Harper: Works In Paper will be sufficient to astonish those who are not yet acquainted with the genius of design, and to further amaze those who are already fans of his. Irving Harper was famous primarily as a furniture designer who championed the modernist style, becoming famous for the "Marshmallow Sofa" which comprises 18 plush discs arranged on a wire frame, and the "Ball Clock," which resembles an asterix with multi-colored balls punctuating the tip of each line. Harper was not a sculptor by profession, but he created paper sculptures at home as a pastime to relieve himself of the stress of his regular job. This book features the astonishing results of someone who was ultimately more artist than hobbyist. Within these pages, a series of masks with graceful, Kabuki-like features can be found alongside vivid and striking depictions of wildlife including a wizened owl with expressive eyes, a snarling wolf hovering over its prey and a stoic elephant made with spare grace. A lavish cathedral skillfully depicts a stained glass window with a seraph in an arched doorway, while a sparse rendition of a scowling soldier on horseback offers a remarkable contrast. A series of abstract sculptures reminiscent of some of Robert Rauschenberg's bold experiments also capture the reader's attention. The book offers a brief introduction to Irving Harper and discusses his design career in some detail, but the majority of the pagers are devoted to stunning full-color and black-and-white images of his paper sculptures. One photograph stands out: Harper, surrounded by his magnificent creations in his living room, idly scans a newspaper from his easy chair. The image remains in the mind even after closing the book as a quiet and powerful document of a humble genius who gave shape to his imagination with the simplest of resources. It is, as Michael Scott suggested, a source of beauty. And it couldn't have happened without paper. Lee Hollman Culpeper native Becca Cole is joining the effort to help survivors of the recent West Virginia floods that killed at least 23 people and left thousands of others homeless. We have family in West Virginia and friends and we just wanted to help out, said the 2013 graduate of Eastern View High School. Cole recently launched a donation drive and will be collecting supplies Saturday from 9 a.m. to dark near Advance American in Culpeper Town Square along Bus. 29. Items being sought are canned food, water, box fans, feminine products, hygiene products, gift cards, gas for generators, phone cards, toasters, microwaves, cleaning supplies, first aid kits, medical gloves, clothes, childrens toys, diapers, wipes, adult diapers, covers, sheets and pillows. People can also contact her directly through July 7 and she will pick up donations. Cole plans to rent a U-Haul filled with supplies and deliver them on the morning of July 8 to the Webster Springs Volunteer Fire Department in Webster County, West Virginia. Webster Springs VFD firefighter paramedic Brian Payne said Wednesday that the support for flood survivors has been overwhelming. Its quite amazing throughout the state of West Virginia and surrounding states. Weve gotten water, cleaning supplies and clothes donated, he said. The No. 1 item flood survivors are requesting are box fans, Payne said. Dozens of homes in Webster County were damaged in last weeks floods, he said. We had multiple water rescues going on at the same time, but fortunately for us there were no fatalities, said Payne. Were neighbors to Nicholas County where the town of Richwood got really wiped out. A lot of the older folks here say it was as bad as the flood in 1985 that killed 38. West Virginia will recover, he said. Oh yes. Were strong people, Payne said. Theyre already in recovery mode, already talking rebuilding. FEMA, the Red Cross and the National Guard are on the ground assisting as parts of West Virginia face a prolonged cleanup following the widespread flooding that prompted Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin to declare a federal disaster. At last count, more than 1,200 homes were severely damaged or lost. Cole, of Culpeper, said shes willing to make two trips to Webster Springs to deliver supplies, if need be. West Virginia is a hard place to live. Theres not a lot of jobs and a lot of people do struggle, she said. But I love West Virginia. Its a great place to venture out. Also this weekend, the Madison County Rescue Squad and Madison County Fire Department will be collecting food, cleaning supplies and hygiene products for West Virginia flood survivors Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Madison Food Lion. These families have lost everything and help is need to get them back on their feet, according to Madison County Rescue Squad on Facebook. A drop box will also be placed outside the front door of the Madison Squad building until July 4. Aid for flood survivors Culpeper native Becca Cole will be collecting donations for survivors of the recent flooding in West Virginia Saturday from 9 a.m. to dark outside the Advance American in Culpeper Town Square shopping center on Bus. 29. She will have signs on site directing folks to the drop-off location. Cole is also willing to pick up contributions for delivery July 8 to the Webster Springs Volunteer Fire Dept. in Webster Springs, West Virginia. Items being sought are canned food, box fans, water, feminine products, hygiene products, gift cards, gas for generators, phone cards, toasters, microwaves, cleaning supplies, first aid kits, medical gloves, clothes, childrens toys, diapers, wipes, adult diapers, covers, sheets and pillows. For information, contact Cole at (540) 395-5402 or beccacole.1234@gmail.com . Also, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Madison County Rescue Squad and Fire Department will be collecting supplies for flood survivors outside of the Madison Food Lion on U.S. 29. Each member of a panel of experts that gathered at Eastern View High School Wednesday night agreed that, without question, there is a heroin epidemic in the Culpeper area. Local, state and federal law enforcement officers discussed the time, effort and money spent on tracking down users and suppliers, while prosecutors explained drug laws and the penalties involved. Brian Duncan, who heads Rappahannock/Rapidan Community Services, even explained the drug treatment programs that are in placefor a price. But no one assembled, not the experts or the 100 or so interested residents who turned out for the town hall meeting, offered any solution to end a drug war that was declared 30 years ago by the Reagan Administration. In fact, despite three decades of education spanning two generations, all agreed that drug useespecially heroinis far more rampant today than when the first educational salvos were fired in 1987. Every day we see the devastation heroin causes, said Culpeper Police Chief Chris Jenkins, adding that during the coming months his officers will be trained to administer naloxone, a drug that can sometimes bring a user back after an overdose. The panel used statistics such as the amount of money it takes to fight the epidemic and the number of people dying from overdoses in an attempt to drive home the severity of the heroin problem. This is the No. 1 problem law enforcement is fighting, said Virginia State Police agent Tom Murphy, who heads up the Blue Ridge Narcotics and Gang Taskforce. It translates into other forms of crime as users seek money to support their addiction. Murphy also alluded to the futility of the war, stating that there is big money to be made in drugs such as heroin. Because of that fact, when law enforcement takes one drug dealer off the street, another is usually waiting to take his place. The heroin problem is so severe that more people in Virginia now die from overdoses than in traffic crashes, Murphy said. Perhaps the most striking statistic presented was the fact that while the United States accounts for only 5 percent of the worlds population, it accounts for 75 percent of heroin and prescription drug addiction. Poorer countries are anxious to cash in on Americas affluence and indulgence. Murphy also presented a chart showing that most heroin addicts begin with alcohol and move to marijuana, cocaine and finally heroin. Most are also addicted to prescription painkillers along the way, he added. We all have to deal with this epidemic together, explained Drug Enforcement Agency Special Agent Karl Colder. Meetings like this are good places to start. Colder also said that even drugs used to treat cancer are being used to get high. Both Colder and Murphy emphasized that the vast majority of heroin and other hard drugs are coming into this country through Mexico. In this area, the so-called Heroin Highway runs from Baltimore, Maryland, to Winchester, then on into Culpeper, Colder said. Assistant U. S, Attorney Ron Huber said his office tries to go after those at the top of the drug chain. We focus on cases that lead us to the supplier, he said, telling about one Culpeper case where new laws with heavy penalties were used as a bargaining tool to persuade users and small distributors to turn in suppliers higher up. Culpeper Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Walther discussed the safe harbor law, which allows heroin overdoses to be reported without the threat of legal action to the caller. He also advocated for a Culpeper drug court to remove some of the burden from the current system. Drug treatment was the chief topic of a question-and-answer period, but no one offered a solution for eradicating a drug culture that seems to have been permanently embedded in American society. How bad is the heroin problem? We see an overdose almost every day, Murphy said. Even before he finished his sentence, an associate reported an overdose death in Fauquier County just hours earlier. The drug war goes on. Wonder what kind of NSA commander-in-chief Donald Trump would be? Well, he had a phone console near his bed that could connect to every phone in his Mar-a-Lago estate, reports Aram Roston at Buzzfeed. Several workers told Buzzfeed that Trump used the equipment to secretly listen in on phone calls in the mid-2000s. Mar-a-Lago is a resort in Palm Beach, Florida that Trump operates as a kind of elite country club for paying guests and celebrities. Trump's telephone console in his bedroom was a sort of switchboard that could connect to every phone extension on the estate, six former workers told Buzzfeed. Several of the workers said Trump routinely used the console to listen in on calls involving staff. Responding to a reporter's questions, a Trump spokesperson gave this one-line answer each time: "This is totally and completely untrue." From Buzzfeed: The managing director of Mar-a-Lago, Bernd Lembcke, did not respond to emails. Reached by phone, he said he referred the email query to Trump's headquarters and said, "I have no knowledge of what you wrote." At the 126-room Mar-a-Lago mansion, Trump keeps an apartment set aside for himself and his family, and rents the rest out to guests and members. BuzzFeed News spoke with six former employees familiar with the phone system at the estate. Four of them speaking on condition of anonymity because they signed nondisclosure agreements said that Trump listened in on phone calls at the club during the mid-2000s. They did not know if he eavesdropped more recently. They said he listened in on calls between club employees or, in some cases, between staff and guests. None of them knew of Trump eavesdropping on guests or members talking on private calls with people who were not employees of Mar-a-Lago. They also said that Trump could eavesdrop only on calls made on the club's landlines and not on calls made from guests' cell phones. Each of these four sources said they personally saw the telephone console, which some referred to as a switchboard, in Trump's bedroom. None of the four supports Trump's bid for president. All said they enjoyed their time working at Mar-a-Lago. Two other sources the tycoon's former butler and Mar-a-Lago's former security director said the console in Trump's private apartment merely made it easier for Trump to call other rooms in the estate. They said their former boss either did not or would not listen in on calls. They both support Trump for president. The New York Times reported last month that some Trump campaign staff believe their offices in Trump Tower in New York are bugged. LONDON - England - We are urging other European countries under the undemocratic EU to break free once and for all. On June 23, 2016, the British people unanimously voted for democracy, something that has been missing from Europe for a long time. European countries like Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Denmark, Sweden, Hungary and all the others who can see the door is now open You must take the tentative step for your national freedom Soon it will be too late as you will be completely assimilated into the EU collective of federalism. Brexit is about love for democracy, Europe and Europeans, but not the EU. This is your last chance to take back control of your nations, your economies, and of your democratic rights as free thinking people. For freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom to make ones own laws, and freedom to run ones own economy, you must all push for democratic revolution to break free from the EU. The shackles of undemocratic dictatorial EU authoritarianism can be smashed with one last referendum that will establish freedom and individual economic prosperity for nations in Europe once again. The EU is even considering banning all referenda, so act quickly. Where you have been stunted by restrictive EU regulations on your economies, on your trading, on your border controls, these will be smashed by democratic choice. The EU wishes to build a dedicated EU army force for your children to be enlisted in. This is a threat to Russia, who are using the prospect of an EU army to justify military build ups on Europes doorstep. The EU is provoking Russia. For the sake of peace. For the sake of your economies. For the sake of your security. For the sake of your democratic rights and respective governments sovereignty. Vote for democracy. Leave the EU! The Pentagon today ended its ban on transgender people serving in the U.S. military. The historic announcement formally removes some of the risks faced by an estimated thousands of U.S. troops, who could have been expelled from the armed forces because of their gender identity. Trans people who serve in the armed forces still have harassment, sexual violence, physical assault, and prejudice to face, but the hatred and sickness no longer has a Pentagon directive to hid behind. "We're eliminating policies that can result in transgender members being treated differently from their peers based solely upon their gender identity rather than upon their ability to serve," Defense Secretary Ash Carter told reporters Thursday. Within 90 days, he added, the Pentagon will create a guide book for commanders to help them understand how to lead transgender service members. The Pentagon will also provide medical guidance to doctors who are obligated to support the uniqie medical and mental health needs of trans men and women. Within a year, said Carter, openly transgender persons will be permitted to join the armed forces. #SecDef announces transgender Americans may serve openly, and will no longer be discharged or otherwise separated just for being transgender U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) June 30, 2016 #SecDef: New policy will allow us to access talent of transgender servicemembers to strengthen success of mission pic.twitter.com/2C7r8Cxbcs U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) June 30, 2016 #SecDef: This is a matter of principle. Americans who want to serve and can meet our standards should be given chance to compete to do so U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) June 30, 2016 #SecDef: we have transgender servicemembers in uniform today, and I have responsibility to provide clearer and more consistent guidance U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) June 30, 2016 From Reuters: The repeal, which ends one of the last barriers to serving in the military, comes after a 2011 decision to end the U.S. military's ban on openly gay and lesbian people serving, despite concerns which proved unfounded that such a move could be too great a burden in wartime and would undermine battle readiness. (..) Carter said that based on a study carried out by the Rand Corporation, there were about 2,500 transgender active-duty servicemembers and 1,500 reserve transgender service members. Still, Rand's figures were within a range, which at the upper end reached 7,000 active duty forces and 4,000 reserves. "The reality is that we have transgender service members serving in uniform today," Carter said, acknowledging the policy change will have implications for issues including deployment and medical treatment. He added that at least 18 countries already allowed transgender personnel to serve openly in their militaries. Related coverage: "Transgender People Will Be Allowed to Serve Openly in Military" [nytimes.com] Countering Violent Extremism: Scientific Methods & Strategies, a 2011 publication by the Air Force Research Laboratory, was just re-released with a new introduction that touts, "the wisdom contained in this paper collection is more relevant than ever." One of the articles in the paper is Dr. Tawfik Hamid's "A Strategic Plan to Defeat Radical Islam," which is informed by the author's self-described former life as an Islamic extremist (today he's a fellow at the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies). Much of the rest of the document is thoughtful and lucid. Hamid's article is bananas. Citing no evidence, Hamid blames jihadism on sexual frustration arising from conservative religious beliefs among Muslim women, and calls the wearing of hijab a form of "passive terrorism," and says that hijabi women implicitly refuse to "speak against or actively resist terrorism." Hamid's theory of radicalization states that terrorism stems from a lack of sexual activity among young men and that addressing this issue is key to reducing support for militant groups. "I believe young Muslims are motivated to join radical groups because of sexual deprivation," he writes, claiming further that "addressing the factors causing deprivation in this life can interrupt the radicalization process and reduce the number of suicide attacks by jihadists." An expert on the subject of foreign fighters disagrees. "There is virtually no evidence that sexual deprivation is somehow a cause of radicalization, or suicide attacks," says Amarnath Amarasingam, a fellow at George Washington University's Program on Extremism. "From my interviews with jihadists in various organizations, it is clear that they are there for a complex variety of reasons. To simply attribute their motivations to sexual depravity is to miss the point entirely." U.S. MILITARY WHITE PAPER DESCRIBES WEARING HIJAB AS "PASSIVE TERRORISM" (Image: Anime Hijab Moslem Girl 2 , Shinyoo91, CC-BY) An honest essay has numerous characteristics: original thinking, a good structure, balanced arguments, and plenty more. But one aspect often overlooked is that an honest essay should be interesting. It should spark the readers curiosity, keep them absorbed, make them want to stay reading and learn more. An uneventful article risks losing the readers attention; whether or not the points you create are excellent, a flat style, or poor handling of a dry subject material can undermine the positive aspects of the essay. The matter is that a lot of students think that essays should be like this: they believe that a flat, dry style is suited to the needs of educational writing and dont even consider that the teacher reading their essay wants to search out the essay interesting. You might want to have online essay editor service to boost your confidence in writing with an error-free output. Academic writing doesnt need to be and shouldnt be bland. The excellent news is that there is much stuff you can do to create your essay more attractive, while youll be able only to do such a lot while remaining within the formal confines of educational writing. Lets study what theyre. Have an interest in what youre writing about Dont go overboard, but youll be able to let your passion for your subject show. If theres one thing bound to inject interest into your writing, its being fascinated by what youre writing about. Passion for a subject matter comes across naturally in your essay, typically making it more lively and fascinating and infusing an infectious enthusiasm into your words within the same way that its easy to talk knowledgeably to someone about something you discover fascinating. Include fascinating details Another factor that may make an essay boring maybe a dry material. Some topic areas are naturally dry, and it falls to you to form the article more interesting through your written style and by trying to seek out fascinating snippets of knowledge to incorporate, which will liven it up a small amount and make the data easier to relate to. A way of doing this with a dry subject is to create what youre talking about that seems relevant to the critical world, as this is often easier for the reader to relate to. Emulate the fashion of writers you discover interesting When you read lots, you subconsciously start emulating the fashion of the writers you have read. Reading benefits you a lot, as this exposes you to a spread of designs, and youll start to require the characteristics of these you discover interesting to read. Borrow some creative writing techniques Theres a limit to the quantity of actual story-telling youll do when youre writing an essay; in the end, essays should be objective, factual and balanced, which doesnt, initially glance, feel considerably like story-telling. However, youll apply a number of the principles of story-telling to create your writing more interesting. consider your own opinion Take the time to figure out what its that you think instead of regurgitating the opinions of others. Cut the waffle Rambling on and on is dull and almost bound to lose the interest of your reader. Youre in danger of waffling if youre not completely clear about what you wish to mention or havent thought carefully about how youre visiting structure your argument. Doing all your research correctly and writing an essay plan before you begin will help prevent this problem. Editing is a vital part of the essay-writing process, so edit the waffle once youve done a primary draft. Read through your essay objectively and eliminate the bits that arent relevant to the argument or labor the purpose. employing a thesaurus isnt always a decent thing Avoid using unfamiliar words in an essay; theres too great a likelihood that youre misusing them. You may think that employing a thesaurus to seek out more complicated words will make your writing more exciting or sound more academic, but using overly high-brow language can have the incorrect effect. Avoid repetitive phrasing Please avoid using the identical phrase structure again and again: its a recipe for dullness! Instead, use a variety of syntax that demonstrates your writing capabilities and makes your writing more interesting. Mix simple, compound, and complicated sentences to avoid your paper becoming predictable. Use some figurative language Using analogies with nature can often make concepts more accessible for readers to know. As weve already seen, its easy to finish up rambling when youre explaining complex concepts mainly after you dont know it yourself. One way of forcing yourself to think about a couple of pictures, present it more simply and engagingly is to form figurative language. This implies explaining something by comparing it with something else, as in an analogy. Employ rhetorical questions Anticipate the questions your reader might ask. One of the ways ancient orators held the eye of their audiences and increased the dramatic effect of their speeches was by using the statement. A decent place to use a statement is at the top of a paragraph, to steer into the following one, or at the start of a replacement section to introduce a brand new area for exploration. Proofread Finally, you may write the top interesting essay an instructor has ever read. Still, youll undermine your good work if its plagued by errors, which distract the reader from the particular content and can probably annoy them. Of the 4.8 million people who have fled the fear and uncertainty of the Syrian war, only a tiny fraction (about 3.6 per cent) have officially found new homes elsewhere. Canada has been among the countries most open to accepting these displaced individuals. Since early November of 2015, the country has taken in 27,580 refugees from the war-torn country a majority of them children and youth. Torn away from school and other daily routines by the civil war in their homeland, these young individuals have made the long and arduous trek with their families in search of a better life. But as many have come to realize, starting over in a new country brings its own challenges. Language and cultural barriers, a lack of resources and problems accessing community services are just a few of the problems faced by the young refugees and their families. An international collaboration Dalhousie professors set up a cross-Canada research coalition late last year to study the integration of these young Syrian refugees in the country, and are now teaming up with counterparts in Germany another major resettlement country to share knowledge and best practices. The burgeoning partnership offers a unique chance for researchers in the two countries to develop collaborative projects and initiatives as their countries struggle to meet the needs of the thousands of newly arrived young people. Michael Ungar, Canada Research Chair in Child, Family and Community Resilience at Dal is the lead researcher on the Canadian Refugee Child, Youth and Family Research coalition. Hes in Berlin this week to kick off the first meeting with colleagues from the Leibniz Education Research Network (LERN). Dr. Ungar is accompanied by eight other Canadian researchers and officials from two federal government departments on the trip, which is being funded by the Canadian government and hosted by the Canadian Embassy in Berlin. A follow-up meeting will be held in Ottawa in September. While Syrian refugees have entered into Canada and Germany in different ways, challenges related to language acquisition, trauma, and family issues such as unemployment raise the risk of social marginalization in both countries. By working together, representatives from the Canadian coalition and LERN are hoping to better understand some of those challenges and share evidence of effective resettlement programs. A coalition of support The Canadian coalition was first formed late last year after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pledged to rapidly bring 25,000 Syrian refugees into the country. With the incoming large cohort of refugees from Syria, there all of the sudden was this opportunity to think Well, if Canada wants to continue to do this more often, wouldnt it be nice to see whats working so that we can do this successfully in the future? explains Dr. Ungar, who is also a professor of social work at Dal and the director of the Children and Youth in Challenging Contexts (CYCC) Network of which this new coalition is an offshoot. Dr. Ungar worked closely with Martha Crago, vice-president of research at Dal, over the past several months to build momentum and support for the coalition, which includes dozens of top researchers, community resettlement partners and government agencies from across Canada. They have found a willing and supportive partner in the federal government, which says it plans to bring thousands more refugees into the country this year on top of the 25,000 that arrived between early November and late February. Coalition reps have held one-on-one meetings in recent months with policy makers in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Statistics Canada, and with senior officials from various government departments, including the Treasury Board of Canada. "This coalition of researchers, service providers and educators from across Canada working with a network of researchers from across Germany and ministries from our governments is a wonderful example of partnered research with the goal of improving the lives of people in one of the world's largest mass migrations, says Dr. Crago. It shows what universities can do in the interest of our global society. The governments and funding agencies have recognized the importance of it and stepped forward to partner with their funds and personnel." Sharing and implementing best practices In addition to securing federal funding for its Germany engagements, the coalition has also had some early success in motivating national funding agencies such as the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) to provide rapid response and other funding to help with the groups research. That research centers on understanding the factors that facilitate young refugees success in four key areas: language acquisition, literacy and engagement in learning; social integration and countering violent extremism; mental and physical wellbeing; and economic success. The coalitions ultimate goal is to help communities, service providers, educators and others to research, share and use best practices on interventions in these areas so that children, youth and families can better navigate the often-rocky process of resettlement. Several research projects are already underway. Howard Ramos, professor in Dals Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology, is currently leading a research contract from the Treasury Board examining data and measures of social and cultural wellbeing among young refugees. Canada has a choice: demographically, this cohort presents tremendous opportunities for us, says Dr. Ramos. Young people are an investment and the research can ensure that investment is a good one. Global reach, local impact Here in Nova Scotia, Dr. Ramos is also involved in another project with a more local focus. Along with fellow Dal researchers Yoko Yoshida (Sociology) and Patrick McGrath (IWK) and sociologist Madine VanderPlatt of Saint Marys University, he is carrying out an independent evaluation of the Welcome Ambassadors program from Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), the largest refugee settlement organization in Atlantic Canada. ISANS helps government-assisted refugees with everything from finding a place to live and getting a health check to language assessments, schooling and the hunt for employment. Gerry Mills, director of operations with ISANS, says her organization received up to 150 new refugees on certain days during the rush in the early parts of this year just 50 shy of the 200 they take in during an average year. It was controlled chaos, she says of the experience of resettling close to 700 government-assisted refugees over the span of a few months. It was an incredible, extraordinary initiative and achievement, I think. Mills says her organization will be sharing data with the Dal-based coalition and working to assess the success of some of its resettlement efforts in the months ahead, including retaining the newcomers in the province. We provide services to them [refugees] until they dont need service, she says. Its the unique data and information gleaned from that sort of on-the-ground experience that Dr. Ungar and his coalition hope to mobilize and share to ensure better outcomes for the thousands of vulnerable children and youth both at home and abroad. The Supreme Court of India is considering lifting the ban imposed on the registration of diesel vehicles with engines greater than 2,000cc. The Supreme Court of India is considering lifting the ban imposed on the registration of diesel vehicles with engines greater than 2,000cc. Vehicles such as the Toyota Innova Crysta, ToyotaFortuner, Tata Safari and multiple cars from German automaker Mercedes-Benz' portfolio were affected seriously by the ban. The consideration comes as a sign of relief for automakers and buyers alike. A one-time levy of 'Green Cess' is being considered instead. The bench associated with the matter, comprising of Chief Justice T S Thakur, Justices A K Sikri and R Banumathi expressed, We are inclined to allow registration. We are open to the registration subject to some kind of one-time cess. Earlier, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota had offered to deposit one per cent of the ex-showroom price of such cars as cess. However, the authorities have not yet reached a concrete decision and the next hearing is scheduled on July 4, 2016. Meanwhile, the bench also asked senior lawyers representing automobile companies to come up with an appropriate proposal. Can you (lawyers for auto firms) ask your people to work out details as to what may be the cess to be levied on such vehicles with regard to the showroom price, etc, the bench said. It will be an early Diwali for automakers if the ban is lifted. Although, the bench did inquire about the existing prescribed emission standard for diesel vehicles. They pointed out that these cars do not meet Euro-IV norms, and this can be a potential roadblock for automakers. Source: CarDekho.com As per the latest data released by Switzerland's central bank SNB, the total funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks stood at CHF 1,513 million. (Representational image) Zurich: Defying a global trend, money kept by Pakistanis in Swiss banks has risen by over 16 per cent to 1.5 billion francs (over Rs 10,000 crore), which is more than what Indians have in Swiss banks. As per the latest data released by Switzerland's central bank SNB, the total funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks stood at CHF 1,513 million at the end of 2015, up nearly 16 per cent from CHF 1,301 billion a year ago. This included funds amounting to CHF 1,477 million held directly by Pakistani nationals and entities and CHF 36 million through fiduciaries or wealth managers. This is the second straight year of rise in Pakistan- linked funds in Switzerland-based banks. They may not have had a grand reunion in Mumbai, but perhaps they were saving it for Madrid. A lot was being said about how Sanjay Dutt and Salman Khan didnt meet after the former was released from jail. Every actor friend of Sanjays paid a visit to him at his residence except for Salman. There was even buzz about a grand party to be thrown at Salmans Panvel farmhouse, but that never materialised. It was enough for rumour mills to go on an overdrive about a supposed cold war between the two actors. But what happened in Madrid has proven all conjectures wrong. Both Salman and Sanjay flew down to the Spanish city for a film awards function. After the music awards night, several celebs caught up with Salman at his hotel suite and among them was Sanjay Dutt. A guest at the get-together told us, Salman cant go and meet everyone, so during such occasions all of them drop by to meet him. This was the night before the big awards night. After Sanjays appearance on stage, he went back to his hotel room and later went to meet Salman. The two met and greeted each other very warmly. They settled down in one corner and chatted for some time before attending to other guests. Dutt left soon after but not without wishing Salman the best for his upcoming film. Several fans can get a chance to fly to the locations where the movie was shot in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. New Delhi: AirAsia India, the official airline partner for Rajinikanth-starrer 'Kabali,' has unveiled its new re-branded aircraft featuring a livery dedicated to the upcoming movie and Rajni-fans. "AirAsia India unveiled its all new rebranded aircraft, with a livery dedicated to the most awaited movie of the year-Kabali," said AirAsia in a statement. According to the company, this special aircraft is a mark of respect to the Thalaiva for his contribution to Indian cinema. AirAsia said that parts of the aircraft have been painted and stickered with the livery, bearing image of the 65-year-old actor from the movie. Reportedly, the planes from this low fare airline were used in a few scenes of 'Kabali.' The aircraft will be flying across the AirAsia India network covering destinations including Bengaluru, New Delhi, Goa, Pune, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Guwahati, Imphal, Vizag and Kochi. As an official airline partner for 'Kabali,' it has also planned a special flight from Bengaluru to Chennai for the fans to watch the first-day-first-show of the movie. Reportedly, AirAsia has also launched a social media contest on their official Facebook page where top 10 winners will get to watch the first show of 'Kabali' on the day of release. Three other winners will stand a chance to fly to the locations where the movie was shot in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. The movie, which also stars Radhika Apte, was initially planned for a release on July 1 this year. It was later postponed to July 15 and it is widely speculated that the film has now been pushed further to July 22. Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Commission for Women (MSCW) has issued a fresh summon to Salman Khan asking him to appear before it on July 7 over his rape remarks after the Bollywood superstar failed to turn up today. The actor had sent a letter to the panel yesterday through his lawyer stating that the case is already being heard by the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the matter cannot be heard simultaneously at two places. Read: Salman replies to NCW on 'raped woman' comment, refuses to apologise After considering his response, the panel expressed dissatisfaction over the actor's argument. "The Commission and its members today went through the letter given by the actor and we found it unsatisfactory. The letter says that case is already being heard by NCW and henceforth it would tantamount to a case of double zero party. But we are of the view that our state commission has been conferred with concurrent powers and the case can be heard at both the places simultaneously," MSCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar told reporters at the Commission office in suburban Bandra. Audio: Felt like raped woman during Sultan shoot, says Salman; apologises The Commission has now summoned the actor to appear before it on July 7, she said. The state panel had sent him a notice asking him to appear before it on June 29 and explain his position on the matter. When asked what steps the Commission would take if Khan failed to turn up again on July 7, Rahatkar said, "That would be decided that day." Salman had compared himself with a raped woman when quizzed about the gruelling shoot for the movie "Sultan". This is Sonakshis second film with the director. Mumbai: With just few days to go for Sonakshi Sinha starrer Akira trailer to release (July, 4), the makers have released the films first teaser. After refreshing our memories with Ghajini shots, the teaser features Sonakshi kicking butt. With the film, the actress is all set to stun the audience with her action packed role. Well see Sonakshi performing martial arts in Murgadoss 'Akira'. The film title Akira is a Sanskrit word which means graceful strength. Akira is said to be the Hindi remake of the hit Tamil film Mounaguru, and will also feature director Anurag Kashyap in a negative role. The film will also feature Sonakshis father Shatrughan Sinha. This is Sonakshis second film with the director; she was previously seen in Murugadoss Holiday with Akshay Kumar. Watch the teaser below: Samantha, it seems, has decided not to take on any new projects as she is preparing for her marriage with Naga Chaitanya. Though she is supposed to do the Tamil film Vada Chennai and a Telugu remake of the Kannada film U-Turn, she hasnt signed anything. Samantha is currently doing only one film, Janatha Garage with Jr NTR, and that will finish by July end. After this, the actress wants to be completely free and thus hasnt signed anything. Meanwhile, shooting for the Tamil film she was supposed to do has started and there is no word about Samantha doing the female lead. It was a conscious decision taken by her not to sign any new films as she is preparing for the big day, says a source, adding that her marriage might be officially announced in August. From Shikari Shambu and Suppandi to Aghoris and Zombies, the Indian comic industrys resurgence over the last few years has been marked by huge shifts in style, form and content. However, taking this change a step ahead, the industry now seems ready to embrace the digital world and is taking its content directly to its younger target audience. While the Internet and digital media, as far as comics are concerned, has largely remained a playground for amateur artists and web comics, even a number of traditional publishers such as Amar Chitra Katha are now not far behind in adapting to the new media. Driving this shift is Comic Con India, which has played an important part in bringing about this resurgence. Comic Con India will be hosting a Comic Book Week this month along with workshops, across Indian cities including Chennai where comics from major publications will be made available online and through apps, websites and platforms such as ReadWhere for free or cheaper rates. However, this has only been a culmination of concerted efforts from major new age and traditional publishers for comics in the country to go digital. With dozens of apps across platforms dishing out hundreds of titles every week, it seems interesting times are ahead! Jatin Varma, the founder of Comic Con India, talks about why it took so long for the event to organise something in namma ooru We were keen on doing something in Chennai for a while; including the city in our Comic Book Celebration Week with workshops etc. certainly seemed appropriate. The workshop is for students at IIT Chennai, and we are excited to bring over artist Abhijeet Kini to conduct it. It will be a great experience for them. When asked whether the main event plans on making its way to the city, he responds, We dont have any plans to host one of our shows in Chennai in the near future. But we certainly do plan to organise more workshops and small fan outreach events in the city in the near future. Our workshop will be held at IIT Madras on July 9. Apart from the advantages new media offers, going digital is the only way forward for the comic industry, which is grappling with several woes, contends independent comic artist and creator of Angry Maushi, Abhijeet Kini who will host the workshop. Abhijeet says, A primary hassle that has held back the comics industry is distribution. Traditional methods of distribution such as getting your work to the bookshelves hardly work anymore. Firstly, finding a distributor is difficult, but more so is to market the comics and get them to the end user. However, this shift towards digital doesnt necessarily mean the end of printed comics, adds Girija from Campfire Comics, which is pioneering the trend of new-age content with comics on topics as far and wide as superheroes and The Beatles The traditional form of printed comics will never disappear. I think the online comics will be more of a new vertical in comics and there is definitely a new audience for it. A huge advantage of going digital is that there are more options of how to deliver the content, says Girija. Campfire Comics, apart from revolutionising its content, is also looking at bringing new technology to the digital comics set up, she quips, As of now, we are preparing to launch a new interactive set-up for reading comics online. While we cant reveal what it exactly is, we are hoping that it will serve as a middle ground between reading comics and animated content. The biggest advantage however, is the reach, adds Abhijeet Lets face it. Not many people read books or newspapers on paper anymore. And getting content directly to an iPad or a Kindle makes sure that it reaches your end user immediately. Also technology has made sure that reading on phones, Kindles or iPads is as close to the experience of reading on a book as possible. While I still feel that the feeling of holding a hard copy of a comic is irreplaceable, many are content with what technology provides. He is also excited about the workshop in the city for Comic Book Celebration Week, My workshop will detail the process I follow in creating comics. There will also be a short ideation session after which all the participants will be making their own comics so they can have a hands-on experience. While new-age comic artists and publishers are going gung ho about the digital platform, traditional players such as Amar Chitra Katha are also not too far behind. However, Reena Puri of ACK Media, which publishes Amar Chitra Katha and Tinkle among several other titles contends that the trick is to move with the times but at the same time not leave behind the existing audience, The last generation would read comics in school libraries and at home, but thats gone now. Now, there are two types of audience that we cater to. While the digital arena is an important space and most of the young demographic leans towards using technology, this is only in the urban areas. There are still several young kids in Tier II cities that still read hard copies. In terms of content, it is also necessary to change and shift to suit the times and the medium, says Reena. The audience is getting more and more aware and are always politically correct. This is not just for the Internet, but outside of it too. So we have to move with the times. We will be sticking to our roots of taking from Indias heritage, but we also need a modern approach. For example, we are now bringing more representation for women in comics unlike earlier. Even in borrowing from history, we are becoming contemporary. For example, instead of the usual historical figures, we will be bringing stories of people like Salim Ali or a Varghese Kurien. (Inputs from Kaavya Pillai) Neha Swain from Hyderabad is one of the two Indians among 60 who were selected for the Queens Young Leaders Award. The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust presents the award recognising young people from across the 53 Commonwealth nations who are taking a lead in transforming the lives of others and making a lasting difference in their communities. Neha, youth facilitator and co-founder of Rubaroo, says, I got to meet so many young people doing different kinds of work from many countries. The community wants us to believe that we young people are the future leaders, who will take up leadership roles in our countries. As part of the award, Neha will also be provided with a mentor and a year-long online course from the University of Cambridge. The group also went to the University to meet and interact with the people behind the curriculum. We had a chance to go to 10 Downing Street, to the British Prime Ministers office, to meet various ministers and know what they expected of us. Neha was also happy to be appreciated by the Queen. I was overwhelmed to get the award. Queen Elizabeth spoke to each and everyone while giving the award. She asked me about the kind of work I was doing, so I got a chance to speak about Rubaroo and she appreciated the organisation, she says adding, It was overwhelming for us to see all the superstars at the same time The Queen, Prince Harry, David Beckham, Kumar Sangakkara and High Commissioners from many countries, among others. It was amazing that everyone had read up about us before the meeting. Before we could introduce ourselves, they would say that they knew us. So that was overwhelming. Elaborating on Rubaroo, Neha says, My co-founder Monisha Vemavarapu and I started Rubaroo in July, 2013. We also have a third co-founder, Hema Khatri. Co-founders of Rubaroo, Monisha Vemavarapu, Neha Swain and Hema Khatri Our main purpose is to create inclusive spaces. We primarily work with young people, and people who influence young people, for example, parents, teachers, etc. Adds Monisha, We create learning spaces they can be workshops, exposures, three-hour long campaigns where people go into a community and understand the community better. In the last three years, we have worked with around 3,000 people, from children in the Old City to schools in Hitec City, with a host of teachers and also youngsters from various colleges. KOCHI: The Perumbavur First Class Magistrate Court remanded Ameerul Islam, the prime suspect in the rape-murder of the 30-year old Dalit LLB student at Perumbavur, to another 14 days in judicial custody on Thursday. His face was un covered for the first time. The Perumbavoor First Class Magistrate Court has remanded Ameerul Islam, the prime suspect in the rape-murder of the 30-year old Dalit LLB student at Kuruppampady near Perumbavoor, to another 14 days in judicial custody on Thursday. He was taken to the court without his face covered for the first time since his arrest from a place close to Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu on Jun 15. Ameerul was taken to Ernakulam district jail where he will continue until July 13. Ameerul Islam The investigation team decided to reveal the identity of the Assam native following the completion of the process of identification parade and recording of evidence with the accused from the spot of crime and most of other places visited by him after committing the offence. The accused said that he was not having any complaint when the court asked. His counsel meanwhile sought the permission of the court for visiting him in the jail. The probe team has collected the evidence in the presence of Ameerul from the house of Jisha and places where he stayed in Perumbavoor and Kancheepuram. They have not revealed whether they will seek his further custody for interrogation. The police may request his custody for taking him to Assam as part of gathering evidence. The team has also taken back the objects, the knife allegedly used by the accused to murder Jisha, and chappals he abandoned after that from the custody of Kuruppampady court. They will show the same to Ameerul and make sure of their authenticity, sources said. Jisha was found murdered in her house on the night of April 28 under mysterious circumstances, and the police traced Ameerul as the killer nearly 50 days later based on the evidence garnered from the DNA sampling. Hyderabad: A local court on Thursday remanded five people, arrested by NIA on Wednesday, in judicial custody for 14 days. They were arrested on charges of involvement in a terror module suspected to be linked to Islamic State and conspiring to carry out bomb attacks. The accused were produced in the chamber of the Metropolitan Sessions Judge by NIA amidst heavy security. The judge remanded them in judicial custody though the investigating agency has filed an application seeking their police custody for further examination. NIA's application for police custody is likely to come up for hearing tomorrow. The accused were later shifted to Cherlapally Central Prison. Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani alias Ibbu, Habeeb Mohammed alias Sir, Mohammed Ilyas Yazdani, Abdullah Bin Ahmed Al Amoodi and Muzaffar Hussain Rizwan were arrested by NIA after a series of searches were conducted at 10 locations in Old City area, with the assistance of Hyderabad Police. The agency had detained six others, including a techie, during the operation. According to NIA, the preliminary examination has revealed that the gang was preparing IEDs for commission of terror acts and were being guided by an online handler suspected to be based in Iraq/Syria. NIA had earlier registered a case based on credible information that some youth hailing from Hyderabad and their accomplices have entered into a criminal conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India by collecting weapons and explosive materials to target public places, including religious sites and sensitive government buildings and others in various parts of the country. The agency recovered firearms, ammunition, precursor chemicals for making explosives, digital exhibits and Rs 15 lakh cash from the searched locations. NIA also seized two semi-automatic pistols with ammunition, an air gun with telescopic sight and shooting practice target boards, a large number of digital items including six laptops, about 40 mobile phones, 32 SIM cards, and a large number of hard disks, memory cards, pen drives, and digital tabs. Meanwhile, local police today dismissed certain messages that are being circulated in social media about the threat to public safety and security in the wake of the arrests made by NIA. "There are certain messages floating in social media about the threat to public safety & security. The information being circulated in social media are all rumours and are found to be false," Hyderabad Police said in a statement. All necessary security arrangements have been made in the city by police to maintain peace and public order. "Law & order situation is peaceful. People of Hyderabad city are requested to not believe in rumours being circulated in social media", it said. Meanwhile, Mohammed Ishaq Yazdani, brother of one of the arrested persons Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani, termed the allegation against his brother as "rumours". "It's all rumours. Around 15 to 20 gun-wielding persons came to our house yesterday morning and in the name of investigation threw the household belongings and took away the laptop and tab. They also took away my original Aadhaar Card," he alleged. He claimed that Rs 15 lakh seized during the raid belonged to Ibrahim's in-laws. New Delhi: A 21-year-old woman, who was allegedly gangraped in Motihari in Bihars East Champaran district, was subjected to two-finger test despite a ban by the Supreme Court, the National Commission for Women is believed to have said in its report. The women body shared the report with the Prime Ministers Office on Wednesday and also sought an appointment with Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss its concern about the Bihar police administration. While the NCW Chairperson did not divulge the details of the report, a source said it mentions that the alleged rape survivor had to undergo the two-finger test, which was banned by the Supreme Court in 2013 holding that it violated the right of rape survivors to privacy. The report also questioned the role of doctors, alleging that they deliberately brush aside rape cases by meddling with test reports, the source claimed. The Commission had instituted the inquiry into the gangrape and one of its members had visited the town as part of a fact-finding mission. Two Union ministers from Bihar, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh and Minister of State for Human Resources Development Upendra Kushwa, who had met the womans family last week, compared the case with December 16 Delhi gangrape incident. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too has come under Opposition fire over increasing lawlessness in the state. The incident took place nearly a week ago. Five men stormed into the womans hut, dragged her out and gangraped her in front of her parents and neighbours. The accused brutalised her by inserting a pistol and some wooden object in her genital area. She was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition. Five people have been arrested in connection with the incident and two policemen were suspended for dereliction of duty. The child was raped on June 5, but for weeks the police refused to register a case. (Photo: Representational Image) Allahabad: A seven-year-old girl was stabbed to death three weeks after being raped by her 14-year-old neighbour, with the victim's family blaming the relatives of the accused for the murder. The incident took place last night at Sikariha Chhata village under Mauaima police station area, 50 km from the city, SP Rajesh Srivastava said today. He said the girl was abducted while she was sleeping with her mother. When she did not find her daughter, she raised an alarm after which the neighbours started looking for her. The police soon rushed to the spot and the girl's body was recovered from a field with injury marks on her body, he said. The victim was earlier this month raped by the boy in her neighbourhood and an FIR was registered following a complaint by her mother after which the accused was arrested and sent to juvenile home. A report suggested that the police initially refused to file a case after the girl was raped. Finally, an FIR was registered on Sunday. The mother has alleged the involvement of the family members after which the uncle of the accused has been arrested. The alleged rapist's father reportedly is a close friend of the village head, because of which the police delayed filing the case, said a report. It also claimed that the police lathi charged the girl's father and other relatives after refusing to hand over the girl's body. But a police force has been deployed in the area, Srivastava said, adding the father of the victim, who works in Meerut has been informed and last rites of the girl have been performed. The houses in Charminar and Moghalpura from where the IS suspects were arrested. Hyderabad: Apart from terrorist attacks at various places in the city, the five arrested ISIS men had also planned to target prominent personalities, stated the remand report submitted by the NIA at a court in Hyderabad on Thursday. NIA officials produced the five before the Fourth Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge, Nampally, on Thursday evening who sent them to judicial custody for 14 days. They were shifted to the Cherlapally prison. Intelligence sources said that the suspects had been asked by ISIS operatives in Syria to unleash violent attacks in the city before Id. According to the NIA remand report, the five had acquired explosives to carry out violent terrorist attacks. The members of this group were in constant touch with each other over Internet. Information was received that the members of the group were in contact with the ISIS. They were getting directions from (ISIS) for carrying out the attacks, stated the remand report. The report revealed that the Ministry of Home Affairs had issued an order under NIA Act on June 20, allowing the agency to book a case. On June 22, the NIA booked a case under Sections 121-A, 122 of IPC, Sections 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act and Sections 18, 18-B, 38, 39 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. NIA officials told the court that the arrested were not subjected to any ill treatment and were taken to Group Centre, CRPF Hospital, Ranga Reddy district for medical examination. The five, Mohammed Iliyas Yazdani, 24, from Talab Katta, Aman Nagar Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani, 30, from Chatta Bazaar, Lakkad Kote, Habeeb Mohammed, 32, from Yousuf Gulshan Colony, Hashamabad, Abdullah Bin Ahmed Al Amoodi aka Fahad, 31, from Punch Mohalla, Charminar, and Mohammed Irfan aka Yaqais Irfan, 27, from Mir Alam Mandi, were arrested on Wednesday. NIA officials are likely to seek 30 days custody of the suspects to probe the charges. Superintendent of police Mr L.R. Kumar is handling the case. Intelligence sources also said that Yazdani had learnt bombmaking by watching online videos adding that the module ahd stored explosives and weapons in the kitchen and practised shooting in the basement. Sources added that Ibrahim and Habib spent Rs 65,000 for the purchase of weapons at Nanded and had visited Patna and Roorkee to check out weapons. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with World Bank President Jim Yong Kim in a meeting in New Delhi on Thursday. (Photo: PTI) New Delhi: The World Bank on Thursday committed more than $1 billion (approximately Rs 6,750 crore) to support the Modi governments pet solar energy programme. As part of our $1 billion solar commitment to India, today we signed an agreement with the government of India for a $625-million grid-connected rooftop solar programme. The project will finance the installation of at least 40 megawatts of solar photovoltaic installations, said World Bank Group president Jim Yong Kim. Stating that India under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership has been fantastic, Dr Kim called himself a big fan of Mr Modi who, like great leaders, sets ambitious targets and deadlines. Dr Kim, said the money would be invested in projects that include solar rooftop technology, infrastructure for solar parks, bringing innovative solar and hybrid technologies to market and transmission lines for solar-rich states. Results of Mr Modis endeavours have started to show, as evident from the World Banks ease of doing business report, Dr Kim said. We just released an Index of Logistics on how easy are logistics in any country and found from 2014 to 2016 Indias rank went from 54th place to 35th place. Logistics in India is better than Portugal, he said. Dr Kim said one can always find things that are not going as quickly as even Mr Modi would like to. These accomplishments are real. India under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi has been fantastic but that challenges us to be better, he said. During his meeting with Mr Modi, Dr Kim promised proactive and full support of World Bank for his agenda including smart cities, Ganga rejuvenation, skill development, Swachh Bharat and power for all. BENGALURU: The prison staff have a huge responsibility of correcting the jail inmates so that they could easily join the mainstream once they are released from the jail, said N. R. Narayana Murthy, co founder and mentor of Infosys. He was addressing the prison staff, who underwent a capacity building course organised by the state prison department here on Thursday. The prison staff has two important responsibilities. One is to treat the inmates as humans with kindness and fairness. You should play the role of teachers and uphold ethics. Converting those who took wrong path is a great job and you should ensure that they are treated as humans. And the second is that the kindness and fairness you show towards them should last through out their lives, even after their release, he said. Most of those who commit crime would have not done it willfully. Sometimes, they are forced to do it or a set of circumstances lead them to such crimes. But, they realise much later the mistake they committed. After that, they should get an equal opportunity to lead a normal life like anybody else, he added. NRNs mantra for development Murthy said that discipline and hard work were the keys for development of any country. India is in a very critical junction today. The world had not looked towards India from the last 400 years. Only since last 30 years, the world took note of Indias development. Thanks to the success of the software industry and change in economic policies. Now, its important that both public and private sectors strive hard for the fast development of the country. Without discipline and hard work, we can not expect development, he pointed out. During a interaction when a prison staff asked whether Infosys would provide employment to those who have completed their jail term, Murthy said, Definitely, please send a list of such candidates. I will consider it as special case and try to accommodate them. Whoever finishes jail term should be treated like any other citizen. Murthy also batted for providing good facilities to prisoners. I have visited jails in some foreign countries and one jail in India as well. I personally feel there are a lot of things the need to be improved in Indian jails. When a woman staff asked him about the huge difference in salaries in private and government sector, he said, Every business works on the fundamentals of economics, demand and supply. Even the software engineers would be offered a low salary, if the demand is low and the supply is huge. Hyderabad: Malaysia has offered to partner with the TS government in its flagship programme, the 2BHK housing scheme. IT minister K.T. Rama Rao, who is on a tour of the country, met Malaysian minister Samy Vellu in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday and informed him about the 2BHK housing scheme and sought Malaysias support in executing the project. Mr Rao urged the Malaysian government to explore and tap the huge opportunities available in TS in the field of IT, electronics, manufacturing automobiles and other sectors. Mr Rao invited Mr Vellu to TS to finalise MoUs in areas where the two governments can work together. He told the Malaysian minister about the government plans to build 2.60 lakh 2BHK houses for the poor this year , of which 1 lakh would be built in Hyderabad alone. Mr Rao said the TS government was keen to partner with international firms to build 2BHK houses at affordable rates. He also met Mohd Salim Bin Fateh Din, chairman of MRCB, a Malaysian government infrastructure firm and urged the MRCB to look into the possibility of setting up inter-city bus terminals (ICBTs) in Hyderabad besides a state-of-the-art international convention centre. Mr Rao is scheduled to meet Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak later on Thursday. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday undertook an exhaustive review of all Union ministries budgetary allocations and the actual amounts spent by them on key programmes under their individual jurisdictions. The meeting came amid heightened speculation that a Cabinet reshuffle may take place anytime in July. Though the Prime Minister normally meets his council of ministers in the last week of every month to review the performance of Central ministries, sources aware of the development said that at Thursdays nearly-five-hour meeting he focused on the budgetary spends of all ministries in the last two years and went through detailed PowerPoint presentations. It is learnt that the Prime Minister will conduct budgetary spending review meetings of all ministries after every quarter. The meeting heightened speculation that the reshuffle may happen soon, especially since it came a day after Mr Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah had a five-hour meeting. The Modi-Shah meeting is learnt to have discussed the possibilities of cutting and pruning the Union Cabinet. Whenever the exercise takes place, the unwritten age bar of 75 years would mean that minority affairs minister Najma Heptullah and micro, small and medium enterprises minister Kalraj Mishra may face the axe. While Ms Heptullah turned 75 last year, Mr Mishra attains that age on July 1. Other ministers who may be replaced are environment minister Prakash Javadekar and health minister J.P. Nadda. Their names have been routinely doing the rounds ever since speculation of a reshuffle gained ground. With the Uttar Pradesh elections due next year, some leaders from the state may be included. New Delhi: Countries sponsoring and harbouring terrorists should be made to pay the price for doing so, external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said on Thursday, calling for a united global fight against terrorism. In an address to youth delegates in New Delhi who are in India to attend the ongoing (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) BRICS Youth Summit in Guwahati from July 1 to 3, Ms Swaraj said the fight should be carried out without any distinction being made between good and bad terrorists. Ironically, China, a member of BRICS, had, a few months ago, opposed Indias move to get terror outfit JeMs chief Masood Azhar banned by the UN, a clear example of China condoning Pakistans strategy of allowing terrorists to freely operate from Pakistani soil. We also need to work and fight together to eliminate international terrorism in BRICS, UN Security Council and its various Committees. This should be done without any differentiation of a good or bad terrorist. A terrorist is a terrorist, and is someone who is acting against humanity as a whole. Those countries which sponsor and harbour terrorists should be made to pay a price, she said. she also heaped praise on Prime Minister at the event. The multi-crore Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project, aimed at decongesting the city, has been hanging fire for the last 12 years, leaving farmers and residents whom the project would impact, fuming. The land prices too have increased manifold since then casting doubts over the viability of the project. However, with the state Cabinet approving a Special Purpose Vehicle and allocating the funds required, the project could soon kick off. What are the challenges which BDA and the government face in getting farmers to give up their land for the ambitious project, and executing it in a time bound manner? The ambitious 65- km Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) connecting Tumkur Road and Hosur Road via Ballari and Sarjapur Roads, put on the backburner for a dozen years for want of funds, could now finally see the light of day, easing traffic conditions in and around the city thanks to the approval it has received from the state Cabinet and the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) ,which could soon be set up to execute it. The PRR connect The state government has finally decided to build the all important 65- km long Peripheral Ring Road that will form a half circle around the city from Tumkur Road to Hosur Road via the Ballari Road, Hennur Road, Old Madras Road, Malur Road and Sarjapur Road. Once it is complete, the city will also have better connectivity with ports in Andhra and Tamil Nadu via NH-7. The other half of the circle is formed by the 41- km long NICE, which also connects Hosur Road and Tumkur Road, but on the opposite side, via Magadi Road, Mysore Road, Kanakapura Road, and Bannerghatta Road. But the PRR and NICE may fall short of touching each other at Madanayakanahalli, owing to acquisition hurdles, breaking what could have been a well connected circular route around the city, taking a huge traffic load off its busy interior roads. Mr V Ravichandra, member of the Bengaluru Blueprint Action Group (BBAG), that strongly backed the project, has high praise for the committee headed by Chief Secretary Arvind Jadhav, which in his words has come out with "an excellent revenue model" for it. The only hitch, he believes, could be convincing farmers to part with their land to make it a reality. Read: Guest column PRR will be an economic value corridor Like the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL), the still to be named SPV for the Peripheral Ring Road, will borrow from financial institutions like the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA), which provides both long term and low interest loans. Learning from its mistakes with the Outer Ring Road (ORR), the government plans to create an economic development zone around the PRR to help fund it parallelly and make landowners partners in the project. Learning from its mistakes with the Outer Ring Road (ORR), the government plans to have an economic development zone around the PRR which could help fund it parallelly and also make the landowners its partners in the project V. Ravichandar, member, Bengaluru Blueprint Action Group While the BDA has already acquired land for 100 meters of the PRR with a service road, 25 meters of it will be converted into a commercial zone, which will be handed over to the landowners, fetching them handsome revenue. Also, one acre on either side of the PRR will be allotted for controlled development alongside it , fetching more revenue for the SPV. In another move, a premium Floor Area Ratio could be introduced in the area, Mr Ravichander explains. City development minister K. J. George is in talks with farmers about this, according to him. Controlled development around the PRR will help the SPV provide better access to it and also allow for infrastructure integration with it. Proper access roads will be developed all through the PRR, the BBAG member revealed, adding that as much as 75 meters could be used for building an eight-lane access controlled road with an adequate service road. The BDA plans to develop a township or cluster, depending upon the projected development of the land around the PRR in the near future. Major investors like the Tatas, Ambanis and mega developers could be involved in developing the cluster to showcase the PRR on an international platform. P. N. Nayak, BBMP engineer member The hope now is that this new approach to improve its funding and accessibility will help the SPV execute the project smoothly and without too many hassles. Meanwhile, BBMP engineer member P. N. Nayak says the BDA is proposing Cluster Development , a kind of township around the PRR. Major investors like the Tatas, Ambanis and mega developers could be involved in the Cluster to showcase the PRR on an international platform, he explains. The cluster model could work well here as the PRR connects the international airport and the IT hubs of Whitefield and KR Puram. The concept of mixed zone development can be evolved in these parts to persuade people to stay close to their workplaces, he added. Hurdles galore, farmers oppose move It may have received the green signal from the Cabinet but the path is far from hurdle-free for the proposed Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) as there is strong opposition from farmers, who are against giving up their land for it. Although the government claims the PRR will be linked to NICE for better connectivity, this cannot be done as the court has stayed the acquisition of 150 acres to make this possible. It has also asked the BDA to halt the acquisition process until the proposed PRR is completed. Rina Mahendra, land owner One landowner, Rina Mahendra, who has been waging a legal battle against the projects realignment, is demanding that the BDA either stick to the original alignment of 2007 or drop the project altogether as more farmers could lose their homes otherwise. The alignment has been changed only to suit the requirements of powerful politicians, she charged, also challenging the governments claim that the PRR would be linked to NICE for better connectivity. This cannot be done as the court has stayed the acquisition of another 150 acres needed to make this possible. It has ordered the BDA to stay away from the acquisition process until the proposed PRR is completed, she recalled, accusing the BDA of also falsely claiming that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had given its consent for the project, when it had not. What all this fundamentally means is that the BDA cannot use the land acquired for the road project to monetise the farmers. The purpose of the acquisition is defeated and this has been already challenged. What is stopping the BDA from executing the original alignment, which bulldozes a lesser number of houses? she demanded, noting that with the changed alignment the PRR would run on the gas pipeline and affect the eco-sensitive zone of the Tippagondanahalli reservoir as well. We will not approach any politician or minister to pour out our woes. Instead we will wage a legal war. They must stick to the original plan or drop the project. The BDA did a GPS survey to avoid houses coming in the way of the project, but is now planning to go ahead with a changed plan, forgetting that it will have to pay huge compensation in accordance with the new land acquisition guidelines. Can it afford this? she asked. City development minister, K J. George , who met farmers whose land will be acquired for the PRR, told reporters later that they had turned down the offer of 33 per cent monetary compensation and developed land to make up the rest of it. Instead they wanted 100 per cent monetary compensation, he said. They were also against development of 25 meters along the PRR, the imposition of an impact assessment fee and a premium FAR, he revealed. The issue will be discussed with the Chief Minister and another meeting will be held with the farmers, Mr. George added. Hyderabad: The shifting of AP offices from Hyderabad to Amaravati has sparked a row between TS and AP employees. AP employees working in various welfare departments located in Sankshema Bhavan at Masab Tank left for Amaravati in buses on Thursday. While they were boarding the buses carrying bundles of files, the TS employees objected saying that they cannot take the files from offices without their knowledge. They argued that several files belong to both TS and AP and contain important details with regard to implementation of various welfare schemes for students, BCs, SCs and STs, the budget allotted for various schemes and amount spent over the years. TS employees argued that AP staff should take photocopies and the original files should be retained in TS. They obstructed the AP staff from boarding the buses, saying that the files should be shown to them and left behind if they pertain to TS. This led to heated arguments between employees of TS and AP. As the situation turned volatile, police rushed to the spot to bring matters under control. Normalcy was restored only after AP staff agreed to share the information of files with TS staff. The files contain crucial information of lakhs of students pertaining to fee reimbursement and scholarships. There are several students from AP, who took admissions in Hyderabad. TS needs details over whom to extend the benefit or whom to not, said a TS employee. The discoms should also come out with a White Paper on the money that they have spent on purchase of power from private producers. (Representational image) Hyderabad: Despite the State Electricity Regulatory Commission allowing a Rs 1,527-crore power tariff hike in the current financial year, power distribution companies are left with over Rs 4,000 crore in debts, which might be passed on to the consumers later in the year or in the next fiscal. The government has decided to join the Ujwal Discoms Assurance Yojana as part of which the state will take over 75 per cent of the debts of discoms. The Centre has, however, rejected a request from the government to include Rs 4,000 crore debts in UDAY; only loans obtained by the discoms are included and restructured in the scheme. As the Rs 4,000 crore spent by the discoms to purchase power was not in the form of loans, the Centre said it could not include it in UDAY. Also, the cut-off date for inclusion of discoms debts under UDAY was September 2015. Experts say the government should reimburse the discoms as they had spent the money to purchase power at over Rs 6 per unit from private producers to overcome power shortage and to implement the no power cuts assurance that the government had been giving. We have been bringing this issue to the notice of even the Electricity Regulatory Commission, that discoms had purchased power at higher cost from private producers without seeking approval. The commission should not allow discoms to pass this burden on to the consumers, said Mr M. Venugopal Rao of the Centre for Power Development. The discoms should also come out with a White Paper on the money that they have spent on purchase of power from private producers. The government should arrange to reimburse or provide subsidy of the entire Rs 4,000 crore another expert opined. Officials said it was too early to comment as a tripartite agreement between the state, discoms and the Union power ministry was still to be signed on joining the UDAY. Clarity will come on several financial aspects including the percentage of debts of discoms to be taken over by the state government, an official said. TS advocates on Tuesday protest in front of the Hyderabad High Court against the suspension of two judges for taking out a rally over what they called injustice done to Telangana state in splitting of judges. (Photo: DC) Hyderabad: District judges and the High Court on Thursday suspended nine employees working in subordinate courts in the state for participating in the protests by judicial employees and T-advocates. Among those suspended are Judicial Employees National Association secretary B. Lakshma Reddy, Telangana State Judicial Employees Association president Jagannatham and general secretary Rajasekhar Reddy and four office bearers of Ranga Reddy district judicial employees association, along with two other employees of the lower judiciary in the state. The judicial employees association has earlier given a call for strike from July 1. It is learnt that protesting the suspensions of employees and the judicial officers 48 judicial employees from Kukatpalli court and 12 from Ibrahimpatnam court have submitted their resignation letters to their district association president. Meanwhile the T advocates and judicial officers continued their agitation on Thursday and plan to hold a maha dharna at Indira Park on Friday. Telangana advocates get the nod for dharna Hyderabad police has granted permission to the maha dharna proposed by T-advocates at the Dharna Chowk, Indira Park, on Friday. DCP, Central Zone, issued orders with conditions to be followed during the dharna. The T-advocates represented by the K. Sriranga Rao, had submitted an application to the DCP, Central Zone, on Monday, requesting permission for the dharna demanding recall of the provisional list of subordinate judges and bifurcation of the High Court between TS and AP. Around 1,000 advocates from across the state are expected to participate in the dharna on Friday from 10 am to 5pm. The police told the organisers that they would be held responsible for any damage to public or private properties. The participants should not raise slogans or come in rally while entering or leaving the dharna premises. Participants shall not make any provocative speeches and ensure the participants do not move beyond the dharna limits, an official release said. Earlier, Telangana High Court Advocates JAC president Gandra Mohan Rao had revealed that police has given permission for the maha dharna. Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday said the revocation of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from the state would need critical review of the security situation. "The need and desirability of revocation of AFSPA in various areas of the state requires critical review of the security situation and other relevant factors," she said in a written reply to a question in the Legislative Council. The Chief Minister's reply came to a clubbed question of opposition National Conference (NC) lawmakers - Shehnaz Ganai, Showkat Hussain Ganai and Bashir Ahmad Veeri. Mehbooba, who holds the Home Department portfolio, said AFSPA was in operation in the state but the Jammu and Kashmir Disturbed Areas Act, 1997, ceased to be in force in 1998. The Jammu and Kashmir Disturbed Areas Act, 1997, ceased to be in force in 1998 with effect from October 7, 1998, she said. There have been demands from many quarters for the revocation of AFSPA. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had pitched for its revocation during his term, but the demand was ruled out by the Centre. Thane: An accused in the recently busted multi-crore drug racket case here has allegedly been threatened by the drug mafia in Thane jail not to turn approver in the case, the prosecution has informed a local court. The accused, Punit Shringi, a former senior official of Avon Lifesciences Ltd who was till recently lodged in Thane Jail and is presently in custody of Gujarat ATS, informed the police and prosecution about the threat to eliminate him if he records his statement before magistrate, Special Public Prosecutor Shishir Hiray told the court of Special Judge and District Judge H M Patwardhan on Wednesday. Hiray said this in court while contesting the bail pleas of some the accused arrested in the multi-crore drug racket involving Avon Lifesciences. Earlier, the Thane Police had said that one of the arrested persons in the case had in a statement under section 164 of CrPC given details of the modus operandi and about the crucial meetings held in Kenya and Dubai regarding the ephedrine sale. The police were also trying to record Shrine's statement under CrPC section 164, which is crucial to the investigation in the case. Recently, former actress Mamta Kulkarni was named as a prime accused in a multi-crore drug racket linked to drug baron Vicky Goswami, with Mumbai Police claiming that she was actively involved in the illicit activities. Police have initiated the process for extradition of Kulkarni and Goswami, who are said to be in a relationship and are currently based in Kenya. Shringi is a key link in the drug cartel, as the operation and the work of processing raw ephedrine and its transportation was allegedly supervised by him. In all, there were 17 accused in the case, of whom seven were still at large. The remaining 10 were arrested and are now in judicial custody. The drug racket came to light when police seized around 18.5 tonne of ephedrine, worth approximately Rs 2,000 crore, after raiding the premises of Avon Lifesciences Ltd in Maharashtra's Solapur district in April. According to police, ephedrine, which is a controlled drug, was allegedly being diverted from the Solapur unit of Avon Lifesciences and sent abroad after processing. The ephedrine powder is used for sniffing and is also used to produce popular party drug methamphetamine. Mumbai: Nearly a month since he was compelled to quit after facing a string of allegations, former Maharashtra minister and BJP veteran Eknath Khadse has stirred a row, saying the whole country would "shake" if he opened his mouth. Khadse was addressing a group of supporters in his home constituency in Jalgaon last evening. "Though I have resigned in the wake of allegations against me, if I opened my mouth, the entire country will shake," he claimed. The former minister also took pot shots at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, saying he (Khadse) was responsible for the BJP heading the saffron alliance in the state now by taking the "bold step" of snapping ties with Sena before the last Assembly polls. "If the alliance between the BJP and Sena would not have broken before the Assembly polls, Maharashtra would have had a chief minister of the Sena. I had taken the lead in getting the alliance broken due to which the CM today is of the BJP," he said. Khadse, who was holding several key portfolios, including Revenue, in the state cabinet, had resigned earlier this month over a series of allegations including irregularities in a land deal and allegedly receiving calls on his mobile from a landline number of fugitive underworld don Dawood Ibrahim in Pakistan. The Fadnavis government had ordered a judicial probe into the allegations, which Khadse had stoutly refuted as baseless. Assertions of Khadse, considered the backward class face of the BJP in the state, evoked sharp response from the opposition Congress and the NCP. "There have long been allegations against Khadse that he has links with Dawood Ibrahim. He has himself now said he has information that can 'shake' the country. In all probability he has got crucial information from either Dawood or through some other terror outfit which he is in touch with, and the ATS should immediately take him into custody and get the information," Congress spokesperson Al-Nasser Zakaria said. NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said, "Khadse has always been saying he does not speak without valid proof. Today when he says he has information, we have no reason to disbelieve that he is talking of something very serious that he has got his hands on, either through his conversations with Dawood or somebody else," he said. The houses in Charminar and Moghalpura from where the IS suspects were arrested. (Photo: DC) Hyderabad: The National Investigation Agency officials with the help of the Hyderabad police on Wednesday busted an ISIS terror module and took 11 suspects in custody. The group of terror suspects in the Old City, including two brothers, one of whom is Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani, an engineer who worked with Amazon earlier, had been experimenting with deadly explosive ingredients like Hydrogen Peroxide. Most of them were educated youth aged from 24 to 32 years. They were engineering graduates, automobile experts, motor mechanics, automobile modifiers and have mechanical, electrical and electronic expertise to make Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), said police sources, who are also working on Saudi and Gulf connections. Cops are baffled with the seizure of chemicals resembling Hydrogen Peroxide from the suspects. The suicide bombers who had carried out the attacks in 2015 had used an explosive called Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP), which can be made using Hydrogen Peroxide. TATP explosives are very difficult to detect with scanners; the module wanted to target Inorbit Mall and information technolgy companies. Read: NIA busts ISIS terror module in Hyderabad; 11 suspects in custody A senior intelligence official said, We also found urea used in bombs. The biggest concern is Hydrogen Peroxide. The suspects had got bomb making knowhow from the Internet and were experimenting. However they had not made an Improvised Explosive Devices. Abdullah Bin Ahmed Al Amoodi alias Fahad, 31, a graduate and resident of Panch Mohalla was the bomb expert. Fahad is an automobile modifier and also a BBA degree holder. The two brothers, Mohammed Ilyas Yazdani, 24, a graduate and resident of Talab Katta and Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani, 30, an engineer and resident of Chatta Bazar, and Fahad were radicalised by Shafi Armar. They in turn formed a group with their friends and started meeting regularly to carry out terror activities, said an investigating official. Yazdani had completed BTech (EEE) from Anwar ul Uloom Engineering College. Read: Terror suspects confess to target politicians linked to right wing political parties He had worked for Amazon in its mobile marketing division. He was currently jobless. Ibrahim had earlier worked in Saudi Arabia before returning to India. Police said they were in touch with not only Shafi Armar in Syria but also with other mediator and handlers in Gulf. "They were practicing with air guns using pellets. They didnt have ammunition for their country-made pistols; they are planning to procure the bullets that fit these fire arms, said an official. Read: Cyberabad cops beef up security in IT corridor Among the others, Ali Azhar was a B.Com student, Habeeb worked in an Internet centre, Ilyas in a Mee Seva centre, Irfan was a motor mechanic and Rizwan was unemployed. Fahads arrest unbelievable The street at Punch Mohalla near Charminar looked unusually quiet on Wednesday afternoon. A few locals were seen gathered here and there, talking about the arrest of local resident Abdullah Bin Ahmed Al Amoodi, known to everyone as Fahad, in connection with the Islamic State terror module. A few relatives and family friends of Fahad stood in front of his house, baffled and anxious. When this reporter approached them to speak, they dispersed stating they had nothing to say about him. Fahad has been identified as the king pin of the group, and was called Amir. Youngsters and elders from the neighbourhood said that they did not see Fahad frequently in the area. He would not talk much to us and he always minded his own business. All I know is that he was an expert in modifying bikes and other automobiles, said a teenager from next door. Read: ISIS suspects had temples, hotels on radar Elders remember that Fahad had gone abroad for work and had come back several months back. He had started working in Hyderabad after he returned. He lived with his wife and a child. His elder brothers and mother also live here, said another local resident. Most people from the neighbourhood believe that Fahad came from a respectable family and did not have any ill intentions. I cannot believe what has happened. It is impossible. His family members are good people as far as I know. And he also seemed to be a very noble hearted person, said a neighbour. Telangana advocates holding placards at a protest in front of the High Court demanding separate High Court for Telangana, in Hyderabad. (Photo: PTI) Hyderabad: BJP on Thursday said the governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh should hold talks to resolve the issues of bifurcation of common high court and provisional allocation of judicial officers. Telangana BJP president K Laxman told reporters that there have been instances when the issues between the two states were resolved following talks. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had invited his Telangana counterpart K Chandrasekhar Rao to the foundation laying ceremony of his state's permanent capital city Amaravati and Rao invited the former to the 'Yagam' performed by him, Laxman recalled. A row over water sharing was also resolved through talks between the two state governments, Laxman said. The common Governor of both states, E S L Narasimhan, can take initiative to address the row, he said. Referring to Rao's proposal to hold a 'dharna' in Delhi, the BJP leader said dialogue should be explored first. There need not be any attack on the Centre on the issue as the high court had stated in a judgement on a concerned issue that Centre does not have much of a role, he said. He found fault with the TRS government in Telangana for allegedly not acting in time on the issue and the TDP government in AP for allegedly not acting enough. New Delhi: A 12-year-old boy who was kidnapped from New Delhi and taken to neighbouring Bangladesh six years ago finally returned home on Thursday to be reunited with his parents. Sonu, who goes by one name, landed at Delhi airport escorted by security guards and officials and gripping his father's hand as his mother clutched him from behind. "I have found my son and I am very happy now. Would like to thank Sushma Swaraj," his father Mehboob told reporters. Officials have not revealed details of his abduction ordeal but reports said Sonu was kidnapped by a tenant living in his parent's Delhi house in 2010 before being trafficked across the border. A Bangladesh mechanic alerted Indian officials after speaking with Sonu whom he reportedly found being exploited and forced to do household chores by his trafficker in southwestern Jessore. "She used to make me work and beat me," Sonu was quoted as saying by a Bangladeshi news portal earlier this week. The boy was later transferred to a children's home as Bangladesh and India worked to have him repatriated. Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Tuesday that DNA samples taken from the boy matched those of his mother. Images showed Swaraj hugging a smiling Sonu at her New Delhi office as he and his mother touched the minister's feet in a gesture of respect and gratitude. #WATCH EAM Sushma Swaraj meets Sonu, the boy who was kidnapped and has been rescued from Bangladeshhttps://t.co/rCIAVEgfsL ANI (@ANI_news) June 30, 2016 In a similar case last year, a mute and deaf Indian woman who strayed into Pakistan more than a decade ago finally returned to her home country. She was hopeful of being reunited with her long-lost family after identifying them in photographs delivered by Indian officials in Pakistan. But in a tragic twist just hours after she had arrived in Delhi, the woman, Geeta, said she could not recognise the family she thought was hers. The fire reportedly broke out at a medical shop due to short-circuit. (Photo: Twitter/ANI) Mumbai: Nine people, including five children, were killed while a fireman was seriously injured when a fire broke out at a medical store in Mumbai's Andheri area on Thursday, police said. Among the five deceased children was a 3-month-old infant, they said. The fire occurred early this morning at 'Wafa' medical store located on the ground floor of a chawl in Juhi Galli on Wireless Road in Andheri, Mumbai police spokesman Ashok Dudhe said. Eight persons were initially killed in the blaze. Later, a seriously injured woman also succumbed to her burns at a hospital, police said. The families of the victims were staying on the first and second floors of the premises, he said. According to police and fire brigade officials, the electric wiring and other power installations in the 120 sq ft medical store caught fire. The blaze then spread to other floors of the ground plus two-floor chawl in which nearly 17-18 people were staying. Prima facie, the police and fire officials suspect that because of a very small internal staircase in the chawl, the victims were trapped inside the premises and got engulfed in the fire. "The deceased were sleeping on the floors above the medical store in the ground plus two floors chawl and could not find a passage to come out," said P S Rahangdale, chief of the fire brigade staff of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. He said that short-circuit was suspected to have triggered the fire, but an investigation was underway to ascertain the exact cause. Following the mishap, the victims were rushed to the nearby Cooper Hospital. The deceased have been identified as Saburiya Mozin Khan (52), Siddik Khan (35), Rabil Khan (28), Sabiya Khan (28), Mozhel Khan (8), Unnihay Khan (5), Aliza Khan (4), Tubba Khan (8) and Altaz Khan (3 months), fire brigade said. Sabiya had sustained 45 per cent burns in the mishap and was shifted to Kasturba hospital where she succumbed. Besides, a fireman, Avinash Shirgaokar, suffered injury in the mishap. He was treated at Cooper Hospital. Police said the exact cause of the blaze would be ascertained after a proper inquiry. "Our fire brigade team received a call at 6.15 am and we rushed three fire tenders, one water tanker and two ambulances to the spot," a fire brigade official earlier said, adding that the blaze was brought under control in about an hour. Jhansi: Mounting a fresh attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UP minister Azam Khan on Thursday said he works like a "badshah" and accused his government of befooling people by raking up issues related to cow and the Ganga. The senior SP leader said that instead of building smart cities, Modi should focus on smart villages. "Modi is working like a 'badshah'. He is building smart cities, while there is a need to create smart villages," Khan told reporters on Wednesday. "The Modi government is favouring capitalists and befooling the people of the country by raking up issues related to cow and the Ganga," he alleged, adding "if they (Modi government) respect cow so much then they should ban beef being served in five-star hotels". The minister had earlier also made controversial remarks against Modi and even alleged that the PM had met underworld don Dawood Ibrahim in Lahore at the residence of Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif. Mumbai: Former NIA prosecutor in the 2008 Malegaon blasts case, Rohini Salian, today alleged that the prosecution had acted like a 'shield' to accused Sadhvi Pragya Singh in the case by not opposing her bail plea before a special court here. "The prosecution did not oppose the bail of Sadhvithey acted like a defence lawyer. It is against the rule of law," she said, adding, "in fact it was the intervener (family member of blast victim) who acted like prosecution and argued the case against grant of bail (to Sadhvi)." The special NIA court on June 28 rejected the bail of Sadhvi, virtually questioning NIA's clean chit and observed that there were reasonable grounds to believe that the charges against her are prima facie true. She also said that if the NIA cannot handle the matter properly then it should hand over the case back to ATS, which was the original investigating agency. "If they are finding it too hot to handle then they can hand over the matter back to ATS. There is a provision in the NIA Act to that effect. What had NIA done since 2011," Salian asked. She said just casting aspersions on ATS and maligning the name of investigating officers creates doubt (on NIA's work). Hitting out at the NIA for the charge sheet that it filed revoking charges under MCOCA, Salian said that there is no additional material in it. "It is not a charge sheet...they have not investigated the case but the role of the ATS investigating officers," Salian added. The senior advocate said that if some (ATS) officers have committed mistakes then a complaint has to be filed. "However on what basis they are saying this, is it only on the basis of few witnesses statements?" she asked. Salian, who had withdrawn from the case last year alleging that NIA had asked her to "go soft on the accused" in the case, also questioned the probe agency's authority for giving clean chit to some accused who were arrested earlier. "How can NIA give clean chit to someone who was arrested earlier. Court has taken cognizance of the ATS charge sheet and bail has been denied. Now who is NIA to give a clean chit," Salian said. She said that the action of NIA (in giving clean chit to some accused and dropping MCOCA charges in the case) amounts to interference in court proceedings. "The court will decide which charge stays or goes during the framing of charges," Salian added. Due to this, people in Maharashtra in general and residents of Malegaon specifically have suffered, she said. Seven people were killed in the blast at Malegaon, a predominantly Muslim town in north Maharashtra, on September 29, 2008. Pragya was charged by the Maharashtra ATS in 2009, saying it was her motorcycle that was used to plant the bomb. New Delhi: Abdul Rehman Makki, brother-in-law of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed, has praised the June 25 Pampore attack by two terrorists, which left eight CRPF personnel dead and 22 injured. According to a report in The Indian Express, Makki, who is the second in command of Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), said in a speech in Gujranwala in Pakistan that two lions surrounded the convoy of jackals referring to the terrorists killing CRPF men. He called on the people of Pakistan to wage a war against India. The speech was made at a rally where Hafiz Saeed was also present on stage. I was going to a meeting in Rahim Yar Khan, when the Indian media began screaming in Pampore, our army, our heroes were coming from training in big buses, two terrorists surrounded them. But two lions surrounded the convoy of jackals, Makki was quoted as saying. Read: Son-in-law of Hafiz Saeed masterminded Pampore attack, says Intel The video of the speech was posted on some Facebook groups that support JuD, which is a front for the terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba. JuD is now banned in Pakistan. Saeed himself spoke at the rally which lasted for around 90 minutes. Saeed claimed that when Modi was signing agreements in Washington, the Srinagar-based XVI Corps commander General DS Hooda was saying we have lost the war in Kashmir. Saeed then went on to praise the people of Gujranwala, calling them children of martyrs and congratulated saying your blood is showing its colour. The LeT chief alleged a nexus between India and the US, claiming that Indian airports were now hosting drones used by the US, which are bombing and killing hundreds of Pakistanis. New Delhi: Home Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Jammu and Kashmir for two days beginning on Friday to review the security scenario there as well as arrangements for Amarnath Yatra, following a deadly terror attack on a CRPF convoy. During the tour, the Home Minister will attend a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, top civil, police and Army officers to take stock of the prevailing situation in the state, particularly after the Saturday's attack in Pulwama district. The Union Minister is expected to be briefed about various steps being taken by the security agencies to tackle the militancy as well as infiltration from across the border, official sources said. The Home Ministry has already directed security forces to intensify vigil in the state in the wake of reports of increase of cross border infiltration. A three-member team, set up by the Home Minister, is currently visiting the state to look into lapses, if any, in the Pulwama incident so that corrective steps could be taken. Practices being followed during the movement of paramilitary forces convoy in Jammu and Kashmir will also come up for review in the meeting to be attended by Singh. The Home Minister will also oversee the security arrangements being made along the two routes of Amarnath Yatra, which will begin on July 2. Top Home Ministry officials are in constant touch with Jammu and Kashmir government for ensuring security to pilgrims going to the cave shrine located in the Himalayan range at a height of 12,756 feet. As many as 12,500 central paramilitary personnel and 8,000 state policemen will be deployed along the two routes, one from South Kashmir's Pahalgam and the other through Northeast Sonamarg. There is no specific threat to the 48-day long yatra to the cave shrine but all security arrangements have been made by the state government with active support of the Centre, sources said. Eight CRPF personnel were killed and at least 25 others injured when two militants attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama district on June 25. KOCHI: In a major anti-drug operation in the city on the orders of the City Police Commissioner, the shadow police busted a racket operating around shopping malls and educational institutions and arrested four youths. Police seized from them ganja, hashish and nitrazepam tablets. Kannur native Shibu Mathew (23), Mamangalam native Loui Bennet (22) were arrested by the Shadow Police in association with Palarivattom police. Ernakulam native Vinu Balaksrishnan (25) and Aluva native Peter Kadavanthra were arrested by Shadow Police in association with the Central police. The accused were booked under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and remanded to custody. Vinu Balakrishnan alias Kim Cat was arrested from near a popular shopping mall here with 13 packets of hashish. He used bring it from Goa and Bangalore and solicit customers through Facebook and WhatsApp and sell it for as high a price as Rs 3000 per packet. Peter was overpowered with the support of people in the area near the Ernakulam South railway station while he tried to sell nitrozepam tablets. Shibu Mathews and Lois Bennet used to operate from a rented house in Palarivattom. Their target was school students whom they trapped with ganja in small plastic offered for Rs 100 per packet. KOCHI: The KMRL will formally begin the work on Water Metro, the integrated water transport project for Greater Kochi, on Monday with the state government signing an agreement with the German bank KFW for funding it. A team of Kochi Metro Rail Limited officials led by managing director Elias George will visit the proposed areas for the project from Monday. Beginning with the Kadamakkudy island, the team will go to areas in all the six panchayats, four municipalities and corporation which come under the project. The officials will also make a presentation on the salient features of the project for the panchayat members and other civic officials. Some of the major points to be discussed are the location of the boat jetties, ancillary facilities, including the possibilities of commercial development, requirement of land for construction of the landing jetties, route improvement proposals for connecting the jetties with the larger transportation network, lighting of public spaces, dredging requirements, integrating water transport project with the panchayats plan and providing technical expertise for quality improvement of the panchayats infrastructure development plan. The initiative is part of our objective to improve the public transport system and the livelihoods in coastal areas and on the islands. It will improve connectivity, better access roads and street lighting, as well as provide electric/CNG buses as feeder services to connect boat jetties with other public transit systems, said Mr Elias George. Before formally launching the project, a series of preparatory works has to be completed like identifying the land for jetty construction and access roads and transit-oriented development. The official inauguration of the project will be finalised in consultation with the government, said a top official. Bengaluru: The state government is hoping to add 1,000 MW power to its grid in the next 18 months. Speaking to reporters here after signing a pact with the public sector Solar Energy Corporation of India(SECI) here on Wednesday, Energy Minister Mr D.K. Shivakumar said that SECI will be setting up grid connected solar projects across 60 taluks on Build Own Operate(BOO) basis, under Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission. All the five ESCOMs in Karnataka on Wednesday inked a pact with SECI on the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for purchase of solar power over a period of 25 years. The SECI will sell solar power at a low tariff of Rs 4.50. Under the arrangement, SECI is also planning to develop 1,000 MW solar projects in more taluks to promote ecologically sustainable growth while addressing state energy security challenges, the minister added. Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday distanced himself from the occupation of a bungalow belonging to the Jammu and Kashmir government in Delhi by his estranged wife Payal. Referring to media reports on the issue, he said in a statement that he had responded to the state Estate officer's eviction notice on June 4 this year informing him that he was not in occupation of the bungalow in question. "This I did, after informing my wife, who I have been separated from for more than five years now and also after having informer her of the alternative arrangements available to them," Omar said in the statement. He was responding to media reports that said that Payal had approached Supreme Court against the eviction notice issued by the Jammu and Kashmir government for vacating 7-Akbar Road, which is the official residence of the state Chief Minister. Requesting the media to respect his privacy, Omar said that as regards the circumstances that led to the "breakdown of my marriage, that matter is currently sub judice and awaiting adjudication in court. Therefore, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on this matter." "In the past, the media have acceded to my request to respect the privacy of the persons involved as also avoid any unnecessary speculation around this issue, for which I'm grateful. "This was primarily to protect the interests of my children, who are the real victims of these unfortunate circumstances. Over the years, I have done everything within my means to try and shield them from the fallout of these circumstances and will continue to do so," he said. Omar reiterated his request to the media in the hope that the media will be sensitive to these concerns going forward. "To the extent I am responsible to the people of my State, in discharging my responsibilities and duties for the work that I do, I will continue to remain accountable to them," he added. Thiruvananthapuram: The AICC leadership will invite 50 leaders from Kerala for a day-long brainstorming session in New Delhi in the first week of July. The KPCC executive camp had appointed Mr V. D. Satheeshan committee on strengthening the party from the grassroots level, but Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi will invite only senior leaders to New Delhi. The meeting, likely to be held on July 7, will sort out the issues in Kerala as the two factions in the Congress are up in arms against KPCC president V. M. Sudheeran for the partys drubbing in the elections. A senior AICC leader told DC that they were fed up of factional politics despite sending out stern messages to the senior KPCC leaders. The session would deal with the strategy to take the party forward. Most of the senior leaders of KPCC know what is best for the partys growth in the state, he said. A section of Congress leaders feels that the Satheeshan committees recommendations should have been incorporated in the Delhi meeting. When the second sitting of the committee was convened the other day at the KPCC office, it was decided to send out letters to DCC presidents, MLAs, MPs and senior leaders seeking their recommendations and suggestions on how to strengthen the party. Their report will be received only by July 15. The committee is seeking recommendations right from the micro-level of the party cadre, said a Congress leader. The state Youth Congress leaders may be called for a meeting at a later stage. KPCC leadership has submitted the names of 100 members to the AICC which would be shortlisted soon. The terrorist attack at Istanbuls Ataturk international airport on Wednesday in which 41 people were killed and well over 200 injured is a reminder that terrorism continues to pose a major threat internationally. One reason is that the world is yet to take collective action against terrorism, and Ankara is right to ask for this. The Turkish authorities have pointed a finger at ISIS though this does not appear to rest on firm pointers. There have been four major terror attacks in Turkey this year, and a particularly severe one in October 2015 in Ankara, in which the death toll crossed 100. ISIS has not claimed responsibility for any of these. Turkey has a Kurdish insurrection problem and Kurd factions could be behind some of the terror episodes. An Islamic party has been at the helm in Turkey for some years. It has been solicitous to Muslim Brotherhood elements in West Asia. Through Turkey have passed Syria-bound fighters from Europe eager to join ISIS. ISIS and Turkey have a common foe in the Kurds. For these and related reasons Ankaras disavowal of any sympathy for Islamic State is received with a measure of scepticism. In our own Hyderabad, 11 persons suspected to be linked to ISIS were picked up on Wednesday. This claim of the authorities too is yet unsubstantiated. While we need to keep an eye out for extremists and terrorists of all hues, the tendency by investigators to make dramatic claims has been seen to be counter-productive in the past. Olivia de Havilland turns 100 today. A curious twist of circumstances got me a chance to meet Olivia. In 2004, while planning a visit to Paris, I looked through the address book of Princess Niloufer who was married to Prince Moazzam Jah in Hyderabad. Where my research on her was falling short was the period after she returned to France, following her separation from her husband in 1949. I opened the address book and I saw the name Olivia de Havilland. Could she be the same Olivia? From Gone With The Wind? Taking a chance that she might still be at the same address, I sent her a letter. A simple one along the lines of I am researching Princess Niloufers life. I saw your address in her book. Could I come to meet you? I wasnt sure if the letter would reach its destination. More importantly, I wasnt sure if she would respond. My calculation showed that she would be over 88 years old at that time. Two weeks later a letter arrived, from Paris. Olivia did respond; she asked if I could come for tea, at her home. With me was a friend, one who had known Princess Niloufer. As we knocked on her door, a servant opened. She asked us to be seated. Moments later, Olivia descended from the floor above and we soon started talking. Nilou had seen Gone With the Wind, and thought she and Melanie (my character in the film) shared many qualities. Nilou told me she had lost her father early, like Melanie did. Similarly, she had trained to be a nurse during the War. What about Gone With the Wind? What did she think about it, 65 years later? I am always asked about Gone With The Wind. I dont think it will ever be gone. It has this universal life. Almost every nation has experienced war as well as defeat and rebirth. That is why I think everyone can identify with the characters. And Clark Gable? Clark Gable was such a big star. I was afraid to talk to him. I was in awe. In the film, there is a scene where Melanie is in bed, with a child beside her. Atlanta is in flames, and Rhett (Clark Gables character) is supposed to pick up Melanie and the baby, both wrapped in a comforter and then bring them down to a carriage. I played some mischief at that time. I had seen a block of cement outside with a steel ring in it. So, I got one of the staff to bring it up to my bedroom, then tied a rope around the ring and wrapped the rope around myself. So, when Clark tried to lift me, with the baby, he expected it to be an easy task. Clark ran up to me and tried to lift me and oh, I had such a hearty laugh. Then, I explained what I did and he forgave me and we completed the scene! I had heard that Clark Gable actually did not like the novel. He had called it a womans picture. Also, at that time, Gable was in bitter divorce proceedings. And he hated the character he had to play. He needed money for his divorce, and only after that was he ready to act. Even so, he wasnt the first choice for Rhett Butler. It was Gary Cooper. But Cooper thought the film would be the biggest flop in Hollywood history. He is reputed to have said, Im just glad itll be Clark Gable whos falling on his face and not Gary Cooper. And would you believe Clark almost quit? It was all about one scene! I remember talking to Clark about the scene when he is supposed to cry, after the death of his daughter. He was worried: you see, he had never cried on the screen before. He thought it was not masculine to cry. He was so worried about it. Im just going to have to quit, he told me. I remember I said, tears denote strength of character, not weakness. Crying makes you intensely human. He agreed, rehearsed it and it turned out to be one of the most memorable scenes in the movie. Did Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh have a great time acting? Vivien couldnt dance so they had a double for the long shots. Vivien also hated kissing Clark Gable; he had bad breath from constant smoking. But the pressure got to Vivien and she started smoking four packs a day! Hollywood was a harsh place. In the 1930s, actors were paid on a different scale. Vivien Leigh worked for 125 days, and she was paid $200 a day. Clark Gable on the other hand, worked for 10 weeks and received $12,000 per week. Stranger still was the position of Hattie McDaniel. As the film had scenes of slavery, she was asked not to act in it. Her response was that she would rather make $700 a week playing a maid, than seven dollars being one! Discrimination continued off screen. When the film premiered in Atlanta, the governor of Georgia declared a state holiday. A holiday for a film! David (O. Selznick) knew he had a successful film on his hands but even he was shocked that a million people came to Atlanta. There was a crowd, who lined the streets for more than five miles, just to see the stars arrive in limousines. And all of us were there for the premiere, except Hattie (Hattie McDaniel: a black actress who played the role of Mamie, a black servant). In Georgia those days, blacks and whites were supposed to sit in separate sections; so Hattie decided not to attend. When Clark heard this, he was annoyed. He refused to go. Finally, Hattie convinced him to be there. What about the Oscars? The film was nominated in 13 categories: it won 8. I was nominated but did not win. Hattie won Best Supporting Actress. You know, at the ceremony in Los Angeles, Hattie had to sit with her escort at a separate table! Imagine that! How times have changed. What about her own Oscars? Well, I thought I had done a good job with Melanie in Gone With The Wind, but I had to wait for another seven years, when the Academy gave me the award for my role in To Each His Own and again in 1949 for The Heiress. Curiously, Melanie Hamilton, Olivias character in Gone With the Wind, is the only lead character who dies in the film. Today, in 2016, all the other actors are dead. And shes the only one alive. Happy 100th, Olivia. Bengaluru: TeamIndus, the Indian team thats competing for the Google Lunar XPrize, on Wednesday announced a competition of its own, Lab2Moon, calling on youngsters to design an experiment to fly on board the TeamIndus spacecraft to the moon in late 2017. The Google Lunar XPrize, announced in 2007, is a global competition in which 16 privately funded teams from around the world are participating. They are required to place a robot on the moons surface that explores at least 500 metres and transmits video and images back to earth. As part of Lab2Moon, youngsters between 14 and 25 years have to imagine, design and build a project that could help sustain humans on the moon and beyond, ranging from investigating how seeds can grow in space to examining new possibilities in renewable energy. TeamIndus marketing and outreach lead Sheelika Ravishankar said it wanted to challenge bright young minds. They have to design an experimental payload that weighs no more than 260 grams and which can communicate their findings back to our computers. Youngsters from across India and the world have been writing to TeamIndus with ideas and aspirations for the moon launch and this had spurred the company to launch Lab2Moon. Nearly five years ago, a 12-year-old boy in Odisha wrote to us that he wanted to send aboard our spacecraft DNA samples of all the species on earth to the moon. Recently, a group of schoolgirls from Hawaii wrote to us saying they wanted to send a dust shield to the moon, Ms. Ravishankar said. Landing at the sea of showers TeamIndus, which proposes to launch its moon spacecraft on an Isro PSLV rocket, has identified a landing site for it: the Mare Imbrium, or the Sea of Showers, a vast lava plain in the Imbrium Basin, where the Soviet Luna 17 and US Apollo 15 landed in the 1970s and the Chinese Change landed in 2013. In Western folklores Man in the Moon image, Mare Imbrium is the mans right eye, visible to the naked eye from the earth. We have to look for the most benign site to land on. The Sea of Showers looks the most likely now, but it might change, depending on the launch date, Ms. Ravishankar said. Our spacecraft will land, a ramp will deploy and a rover will roll out. We will have 14 earth days or about half a moon day of exploration activities. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. The core principle of News Feed - the place most people see postings on Facebook - is that posts from family and friends get ranked first. Facebook on Wednesday offered a rare glimpse into how it ranks and shows content in its News Feed, part of an effort to provide more transparency about its operations as the social network's cultural and political influence continue to grow. The disclosures, though lacking in detail, are notable in part because they come in the wake of a May news report alleging liberal political bias in a Facebook feature called Trending Topics. News Feed is a system thats designed and built by people, but people have values and those values are reflected in how we make decisions on a regular basis, Adam Mosseri, vice president of product management for News Feed, told a press briefing. Mosseri said the core principle of News Feed - the place most people see postings on Facebook - is that posts from family and friends get ranked first. That is followed by informative content, which can range from news articles to recipes and is determined by what types of posts an individual tends to click on. Entertaining content is the third priority, and is similarly based on past preferences. Although News Feed is separate from Trending Topics, it is the central feature of the Facebook experience and any hint that is was influenced by a political agenda could be hugely damaging to the company. The heated US presidential election has heightened concerns about possible attempts to influence elections. Facebook denied the May allegations about Trending Topics, but the claims spurred a Congressional letter demanding answers. Facebook then provided a first-ever explanation of how Trending Topics articles were chosen and also made changes in its process. We realize we need to be more and more proactive in communicating how News Feed operates, said Mosseri. Facebook launched News Feed in 2006 as a way to help users see the content that would be most important to them from their friends, family and pages they choose to follow. It uses an algorithm that it says it is constantly updating, along with human editors, to decide what content it should show customers. Facebook stressed in a blog post Wednesday that it does not favor certain sources or ideas. We are not in the business of picking which issues the world should read about. The company also said it is working to better identify content that users find authentic and surface it higher in the News Feed, as well as removing more click bait, which it said users find misleading. Responding to criticism that Facebook and other social networks create an echo chamber in which people see only stories that reflect their views, Mosseri said the team tries to help users find new pages to follow that could diversify their feeds. In the United States, he added, 25 percent of peoples friends who report their political affiliation have a different affiliation than the person. Were trying to figure out what people find interesting, Mosseri said. People find opposing views interesting. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. 'Thomson Reuters is working feverishly to get it secured,' said Chris Vickery, who reported the leak. (Photo: Representational image) Thomson Reuters are reportedly working to recover more than 2.2 million records from their World-Check database of heightened risk individuals and groups used by government, banks, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies around the world. Chris Vickery, a security researcher, posted on Reddit that he has obtained a copy of World-Check database from mid-2014. The post said, the database contains millions of heightened-risk individuals and organizations The terrorism category is only a small part of the database. Other categories consist of individuals suspected of being related to money laundering, organized crime, bribery, corruption, and other unsavory activities. Forming part of the companys risk management solutions, Thomson Reuters website explains, We cover more than 240 countries and territories, and monitor over 530 sanction, watch and regulatory law and enforcement lists, and hundreds of thousands of information sources, often identifying heightened-risk entities months or years before they are listed. Thomson Reuters is working feverishly to get it secured, Chris told the Register, explaining that he had alerted the company about the leak, but was still considering whether to publish the content contained in it. In a statement to TechCrunch, Thomson Reuters confirmed the leak, explaining that it was a third-party act. The company said, Thomson Reuters was yesterday alerted to out-of-date information from the World-Check database that had been exposed by a third party. We are grateful to Chris Vickery for bringing this to our attention, and immediately took steps to contact the third party responsible. As a result, we can confirm that the third party has taken down the information. We have also spoken to the third party to ensure there will be no repetition of this unacceptable incident, the company added. Chris revealed that the leak was due to a Couch DB (an open source non-relational database software) instance that was mistakenly configured for public access. According to Chris, SmartKYC is responsible for the Couch DB instance. Thomson Reuters did confirm to me early this morning that they have been working with SmartKYC to secure the data and it is believed to now be offline, said Chris. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. When Windows 10 was first debuted on July 29, 2015, Microsoft made it available as a free upgrade for Windows 7 or 8.1 users, and other compatible devices. But, since last summer, the tech giant pushed and prodded PC owners to upgrade their machines to its latest Windows version via upgrade prompts. Also read: Microsoft's Windows 10 push comes to shove for some users While the upgrade is currently free for most consumers with Windows PCs, it will cost $119 (approximately Rs 8,000), after July 29. Also read: Microsoft readies Windows 10 birthday gift Marking the anniversary of Windows 10, Microsoft has planned to roll out a free update to existing Windows 10 users on August 2, 2016. The update will include new features like Windows Ink, Microsoft Edge browser extension and Cortona improvements. If interested, we suggest you to upgrade your devices to Windows 10 before July 29. More information about the new features coming to the Anniversary Update will be revealed as its release approaches. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Xiaomi introduced its new phablet Mi Max and latest MIUI 8 OS at an event held in New Delhi today. In a rather embarrassing incident, police had to be called in at Xiaomis special Mi Max, MIUI 8 launch event held in New Delhi on Thursday, after an angry group of fans invited by the company started protesting over the lack of sufficient seats at the event. According to our reporter, the event, which was expected to start at 11.30 am, was delayed by more an hour. The company had invited approximately 50,000 people at the event held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium but there were seating arrangements for only 3,000. Moreover, there were further protests as the company did not arrange for any freebies for takeaway; something which attracts a large number of people to these events. However, the India head for Xiaomi, Manu Jain intervened and assured each one of the fans a goodie Bag and a t-shirt which will be couriered to them later if they fall short. Meanwhile, another group of angry individuals were waiting outside in a long queue to enter the venue; however, a significant delay in the registration process angered the fans further. Rumours were also being spilled out stating that the companys rivals have been behind this scene. However there is no confirmation on the same. However, the issue was resolved, shortly after the fans were promised goodies at the end of the event. The Delhi police was also called in to maintain law and order. Xiaomi made sure that it kept its fans happy and that there would be no further issues. Xiaomi said that they did not expect such a huge turnout, and hence the chaos. The Chinese tech giant has gone all out to make their fans happy to maintain a peaceful and happy relationship. Read: Xiaomi Mi Max, MIUI 8 launched in India; here is all you need to know The event finally kicked off post 12.30 pm after settling the crowd. At the event, Xiaomi introduced its new phablet Mi Max and latest MIUI 8 OS. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Early Islamic scholars, he said, confronted sayings and traditions wrongly attributed to the Prophet Mohammed. (Photo: AFP) Cairo: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who came to power after a bloody crackdown on political Islamists, called on Wednesday for religious reforms to counter extremists in a speech to Muslim clerics. Sisi has often warned that Islamist extremism presents a vital threat to the region, which he suggested lags in development and women's rights. Not enough work, he added, has been done to confront the ideology of extremists who have roiled the region and are waging a bloody insurgency in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula. "We are on a mission, during one of the most difficult periods not only for Egypt, but for Egypt and all Arab and Muslim states," Sisi said in the televised speech. "Are we the most knowledgeable of nations?" he asked, referring to Muslim countries. "Are we the most tolerant nation? Are we the nation that most respects women?" "If you found that the flaw was only in Egypt, we'd say OK. But I wonder, in how many of these 50 (Muslim) countries is this situation present?" he asked. Early Islamic scholars, he said, confronted sayings and traditions wrongly attributed to the Prophet Mohammed. Islamic law is partly based on Mohammed's sayings that are deemed authentic. "We can perform the same role, but regarding other things," Sisi said, without elaborating. "I fear that we have not until now found the real path to confronting fanaticism and extremism: look at the map of extremism in the world," he added. The former army chief was elected president in 2014 almost a year after he overthrew Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013 following mass protests, a move initially met with Western opprobrium. The retired field marshal has since presented himself as an authority on the dangers of Islamist extremism, and found acceptance among Western countries as an ally in the war against the Islamic State group. Egypt is battling an affiliate of the group in the Sinai Peninsula which has killed hundreds of soldiers and policemen and brought down a Russian passenger plane with 224 people on board. The worst-injured people have already been taken away, says official. (Photo: Representational Image/AFP) Buenos Aires: At least 20 people were injured when a freight train and a passenger train collided in central Argentina, local media said, citing emergency services. Ambulances and firefighters were called after the trains collided in the early morning at the entrance to the station in the small town of Rawson, the Telam news agency said. "Fortunately there were no fatalities. The worst-injured people have already been taken away. Two of them had major fractures," said Juan Temoche, an official at the local hospital, was quoted as saying by the DyN news agency. In February 2012 a train crashed into the buffers at a station in western Argentina, killing 51 people and injuring 700. A court convicted 21 people last year for that crash, including two former government deputy ministers. Winston-Salem: The release of police dispatch records offering new details from witnesses of the Orlando nightclub massacre provided fresh grist on Wednesday for the debate about whether law enforcement waited too long to take out the gunman. About three hours passed on June 12 between the firing of the first shots and the killing of the hostage-taking shooter, prompting people to ask on social media and in emails to public officials whether quicker police action could have saved lives. Orlando, Florida, authorities on Tuesday released new details including 911 operator notes and text and email messages received by the police chief whose officers fatally shot the gunman, Omar Mateen, after he killed 49 people and wounded 53 more. The call log provides a minute-by-minute account as reported to emergency dispatchers, offering the most detailed timeline yet of the incident as it unfolded. The three-hour duration of the episode was already known. Some critics said the transcripts showed police should have acted faster to remove the threat, but others argued they did the best they could in chaotic conditions. Retired police sergeant Grant Whitus, who led the SWAT team during the Columbine High School shooting in Colorado in 1999, believes Florida officers should have pursued Mateen immediately inside the Pulse nightclub to end it right there before he could take hostages. How do you negotiate with a terrorist or mass murderer? You dont, Whitus said in a phone interview. The more time you give him, the more people that are killed. That view was echoed by critics including Facebook user Chris Byrne, who said the delay amounted to gross misconduct. Do I blame the responding officers? Absolutely not ... I blame their leadership, Byrne wrote. But several experts in tactical training and police performance cautioned against such judgments. They argued that, based on what is known so far, the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history would have been even worse if not for the deliberate response by police. Its always easy to second-guess and hindsight when you have time to sit and think about things. But when you consider how dynamic that situation was, their actions undoubtedly saved lives, Thor Eells, board chairman for the National Tactical Officers Association, said in a phone interview. Eells said he has trained SWAT members from the Orlando Police Department and other law enforcement agencies in Florida, and has been in contact with officers there since the shooting. He and two other police veterans said the first officers at the scene responded appropriately by seeking out the source of the gunfire and trying to address the threat. According to a timeline from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, officers from various law enforcement agencies entered the nightclub and exchanged gunfire with Mateen 6 minutes after the initial report at 2:02 a.m. of shots fired. By 2:15 a.m., the police dispatch log said the shooter was trapped in a bathroom. Orlando Police Chief John Mina has argued that Mateens forced retreat allowed officers to rescue many people from elsewhere in the club. However, other patrons who fled to the bathrooms as the gunfire erupted were now hostages. Someone in a bathroom whispered please help to a 911 operator and callers advised of victims losing blood, according to the police log. The FBI said three crisis negotiation calls with Mateen, ranging from 3 to 16 minutes, occurred between 2:48 a.m. and 3:24 a.m. Its very much a damned if you do, damned if you dont situation, said Scott Reitz, a former SWAT operator and instructor for the Los Angeles Police Department. So many things can go wrong. When police learned at 4:29 a.m. that Mateen was threatening to strap bomb vests onto hostages, they breached a wall of the club for what would be a final confrontation. Jim Bueermann, president of the nonprofit Police Foundation, said an independent review of the incident should be conducted. At this point, criticism is unwarranted because we dont have enough definitive information about what actually happened, he added. Ottawa: The leaders of the United States and Mexico warned against isolationism at a summit in Ottawa on Wednesday, making a pitch for unity as Donald Trump calls into question the free trade agreement that has bound them together with Canada for two decades. "All too often we're hearing rhetoric that ignores the enormous contributions that have been made by Mexican Americans and the enormous strengths we draw from the relationship," Obama said, without naming the Republican billionaire who hopes to succeed him as president. At the start of the so-called "Three Amigos" summit hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto offered a clear warning: "Isolationism is not a road towards progress," he said. "We are neighbors, we are friends," he added, announcing that he would soon visit the White House. "This friendship is based on strong cooperation and teamwork." On Tuesday, Trudeau urged people to resist the temptation of "turning inward," warning of the high economic cost for nations that choose to go it alone. Trump has promised to build a wall on the US border with Mexico to stem the flow of illegal migrants into the United States, and rails regularly against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) signed by his rival Hillary Clinton's husband Bill when he was president. In a speech in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, Trump said he intended to renegotiate the 1994 accord that unites 530 million consumers and represents more than one-quarter of the world's gross domestic product (GDP). "If (Canada and Mexico) do not agree to a renegotiation, then I will submit notice... that America intends to withdraw from the deal," he began. While arguing for greater North American integration as the key to the continent's economic prosperity, Trudeau also warned of a growing backlash against globalization and rising protectionism. The three nations at the Ottawa summit also announced a collaborative strengthening of their efforts to fight climate change. The aim is to produce 50 percent of the continent's overall electricity from "clean energy," including from solar and wind, nuclear and hydroelectric generation, by 2025. Brexit On Agenda "The Paris Agreement was a turning point for our planet, representing unprecedented accord on the urgent need to take action to combat climate change through innovation and deployment of low-carbon solutions," the leaders said in a joint statement calling for the accord to come into force before the end of the year. Mexico also joined an existing commitment by the United States and Canada to reduce emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, by 40 to 45 percent by 2025, compared to 2012 levels. The Ottawa summit comes as the shockwave from Britain's vote to leave the European Union reverberates on both sides of the Atlantic. Both Obama and Trudeau had made clear their desire to see Britain remain in the 28-member bloc and the fallout from the Brexit was on the agenda on Ottawa. "We'll be eager to talk about what it means for us and how we can coordinate our efforts," Mark Feierstein of Obama's National Security Council said ahead of the talks. The US leader, who was to address Canadian lawmakers after the three-way summit, had warned against this very result during a trip to London in April. But for the Obama administration, any comparison between Europe's woes and North America is irrelevant. "Countries in North America have pursued a different strategy, and one that has worked well for us," White House spokesman Josh Earnest said. "It is a strategy that has enhanced the economies of all of our countries. It's enhanced the national security of all of our countries." Romero, the California Highway Patrol spokesman, said the cause of the crash was still being investigated. (Photo: Twitter) Los Angeles: Two mothers and their four children were killed early on Tuesday after their minivan was struck from behind by a tractor-trailer and burst into flames as it tumbled down an embankment north of Los Angeles, the California Highway Patrol said. After surviving the crash, the fathers of the victims suffered burns to their arms trying to free their children and wives trapped inside the van, said California Highway Patrol spokesman Frank Romero. "When we arrived on scene, we saw the van starting to catch fire. We saw the husbands come running up to us, told us their families were in the vehicle still," Officer Dan Williams told Los Angeles television station KABC in video posted online. Williams said in the video interview that he and his partner tried in vain to extricate the women and children after the crash, which occurred along Interstate 5 about 60 miles north of Los Angeles. "My partner went and tried to get in through the van door," Williams said. "The flames came at him, he had to back out. I grabbed the fire extinguisher, I tried to extinguish the flames, but the van burst into flames very, very quickly and we were unable to assist in getting anybody out of the van." Los Angeles County Fire Department Inspector Gustavo Medina said by phone that the department dispatched units at about 3:30 a.m. local time to the crash site near the community of Gorman. Romero, the California Highway Patrol spokesman, said the cause of the crash was still being investigated. The husbands, identified as Aaron Hon Wing Ng, 34, of San Francisco, and Wei Xiong Li, 45, of Daly City, were airlifted to a hospital and expected to live, Romero said. The names of the other victims were not yet released. The ages of the children were also not released. The van initially came to rest on the far right shoulder of the highway after a collision with another car. But the rear end of the van remained in the traffic lane and was then struck from behind by the big rig, Romero said. The driver of the truck, Richard Lopez, 60, of Walnut, California, was uninjured and not arrested. Footage of the crash site showed the burned out van angled backward down a steep embankment off the side of the highway. AQIS claimed responsibility for the September 6, 2014 attack on a naval dockyard in Karachi, in which militants attempted to hijack a Pakistani Navy frigate. (Photo: Representational Image) Washington: The US on Thursday designated al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), a regional branch of the global terror network, as a "foreign terrorist organisation" and added its chief Asim Umar on the list of global terrorist. The announcement by the State Department prohibits US citizens to engage in transactions with AQIS and Umar and the freezing of all of their property and interests in the US. In addition, the consequences of AQIS' FTO designation include a prohibition against knowingly providing, or attempting or conspiring to provide, material support or resources to the organization. In a video message in September 2014, al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri had announced the formation of AQIS to take the fight to India, Myanmar and Bangladesh. The group is led by Umar, a former member of US designated Foreign Terrorist Organisation Harakat ul-Mujahidin. AQIS claimed responsibility for the September 6, 2014 attack on a naval dockyard in Karachi, in which militants attempted to hijack a Pakistani Navy frigate. It has also claimed responsibility for the murders of activists and writers in Bangladesh, including that of US citizen Avijit Roy, US Embassy local employee Xulhaz Mannan, and of Bangladeshi nationals Oyasiqur Rahman Babu, Ahmed Rajib Haideer and AKM Shafiul Islam. "Todays action notifies the US public and the international community that AQIS and Umar are actively engaged in terrorism," the State Department said. "Designations of terrorist individuals and groups expose and isolate organizations and individuals, and result in denial of access to the US financial system. Moreover, designations can assist or complement the law enforcement actions of other US agencies and other governments," it said. Different editions of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf" are on display at the Institute for Contemporary History in Munich. A Boston-based publishing company has decided to donate proceeds from Adolf Hitler manifesto to a local organization that works with aging Holocaust survivors. Boston: A Boston-based publishing company has decided to donate proceeds from Adolf Hitler's infamous manifesto "Mein Kampf" to a local organization that works with aging Holocaust survivors. The move comes after publisher Houghton Mifflin Harcourt was criticized by Jewish advocates for its plans to donate proceeds and royalties from the book to Boston-area cultural organizations, and not necessarily to those that combat anti-Semitism. Following the backlash, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt partnered with Boston-based Combined Jewish Philanthropies to determine "how best to provide aid directly to the victims of the horrific events of the Holocaust," Andrew Russell, the publisher's director of corporate social responsibility, said in a statement. Moving forward, the proceeds from "Mein Kampf" will be donated to Jewish Family & Children's Service of Greater Boston for "direct support of the health and human services needs of (Holocaust) survivors," Russell said. The publisher had been donating proceeds from sales of the book to organizations that combat anti-Semitism since 2000, but last year announced they were going to widen the scope to include other cultural organizations. That caused Jewish advocates to speak out. They now welcome the decision to focus on Holocaust-specific causes. "JF&CS will direct the grant money exclusively to support the needs of the Holocaust survivors we meet with every day," JF&CS CEO Rimma Zelfand said in a statement. "As Holocaust survivors grow increasingly frail, many of our clients have a far greater need for care than is covered by our existing funding." Houghton Mifflin Harcourt declined to provide the annual amount of proceeds generated from the book. Hitler wrote "Mein Kampf" - or "My Struggle" - after he was jailed following the failed 1923 coup attempt known as the Beer Hall Putsch. Millions of copies were printed after the Nazis took power in 1933. The rambling tome set out his ultranationalist, anti-Semitic and anti-communist ideology, which would culminate in the Holocaust and a war of conquest in Europe. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt has published a version of the book continuously since 1933. During World War II, proceeds were directed to the U.S. Justice Department. In 1979, the publishing firm reclaimed its royalty rights and kept the book's proceeds for itself until 2000, when it began donating the funds to combat anti-Semitism, according to The Boston Globe. The New England branch of the Anti-Defamation League praised the publisher's decision to donate all the proceeds to JF&CS, calling it a "smart choice" to direct the funds to those whose lives were most affected by the book. Robert Trestan, regional director for the ADL, said the decision is important now more than ever. His organization says anti-Semitism is on the rise globally. "It's a reminder that efforts need to be put into combatting anti-Semitism, educating the next generation about the Holocaust and, of course, supporting the victims," Trestan said. Children and their relatives embrace as they leave Ataturk airport shortly after the attacks (Photo: AFP) Istanbul: Istanbuls Ataturk Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. In fact, its the 11th busiest handling 61,836,781 passengers every year. But on Tuesday night, witnesses to the terror carnage described scenes of blind panic and stomach-churning terror. A petrified honeymoon couple hugged each other inside a hair salon cupboard as shots rang out outside, praying the gunmen rampaging through Istanbul's airport would not find them. Lawrence Cameron, a British photographer, was one of the first to capture the chaos seconds after the attacks. Security cameras captured passengers scattering desperately on Tuesday evening as a huge ball of flame erupted at one entrance. Other footage showed a black-clad gunman blowing himself up after apparently being floored by a hero policeman's bullet. Otfah Mohamed Abdullah was checking her luggage in when she saw one of the attackers pull out a hidden gun and begin shooting. He's shooting up, two times, and hes beginning to shoot people like that. And then my sister was running I don't know which way. She was running and after that I was falling down, I was on the ground until he finished. Until now I can't find my sister and I don't have anything, everything (I have) is inside. Two South African tourists, Paul and Susie Roos, were also at the airport and due to fly home at the time of the explosions and were making their way up to the departure hall, a floor above arrivals. We came up from the arrivals to the departures, up the escalator when we heard these shots going off,' Mr Roos told news agencies. There was this guy going roaming around, he was dressed in black and he had a hand gun. We came right to international departures and saw the man randomly shooting. He was just firing at anyone coming in front of him. His face was not masked. I was 50 metres away from him. Turkey was holding the first of the funerals on Wednesday and hundreds had gathered to mourn the dead. The government has ordered all flags at half-staff. Abdeslam, the last surviving member of the Paris IS cell, was extradited to France in April. (Photo: Representational Image/AFP) Brussels: Belgium has handed over to France Hamza Attou, who helped key Paris attacks suspect Salah Abdeslam flee to Brussels, the federal prosecutor's office said on Thursday. "Hamza A. has been surrendered to the French authorities yesterday," a statement said, using the restricted formulation of his name. No further information will be given concerning the exact time or the circumstances of his transfer. Attou, a Belgian national who has been previously identified by his lawyer, drove Abdeslam back to Brussels shortly after the Islamic State-claimed attacks in Paris left 130 dead and hundreds more wounded. Abdeslam, the last surviving member of the Paris IS cell, was extradited to France in April. Earlier this month, the Belgian authorities approved a French extradition request for Mohamed Abrini, the "man in the hat" seen on CCTV footage with two bombers who blew themselves up at Brussels airport in March. The airport blast and another attack on the Brussels metro killed 32 people. Abrini has not yet been handed over pending further investigation into the Brussels attacks. London: Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has been accused of begging for campaign cash in emails received by a number of British MPs. The emails, seemingly from Trumps son, accuse Crooked Hillary of fraud and lies and ask recipients to please donate right now to help my father Make America Great Again. Conservative MP Roger Gale on Tuesday appealed to the Speaker of the House of Commons: Members of Parliament are being bombarded by electronic communications from Team Trump ... Mr Speaker, Im all in favour of free speech but I dont see why colleagues on either side of the House should be subjected to intemperate spam. Efforts to try to have these deleted have failed. I wonder if you'd be kind enough to intercede with the Digital Services Department to see if they may be blocked. Brussels: During his final Brussels summit British Prime Minister David Cameron went down blaming the EU for his country's historic snub to the Union. Mr Cameron's appearance at the summit was extremely brief - he left the other 27 leaders to begin discussing their future without the UK on Thursday. According to a source the British PM said that one of the key issues in the referendum campaign, why so many voted to leave, is this sense that there was no control of immigration or free movement, that was one of the factors." "If the EU wants a close economic relationship with the UK, then that does mean you are going to have to work out how do you address the issue of freedom of movement as part of that negotiation," the government source was quoted as saying by media agencies in the UK. According to report, Mr Cameron had earlier pressed for control on immigration but was told that was illegal under Brussels law. He however did manage to extract a ban on state-backed benefits to immigrants arriving in the UK. While the staff of Charlie Hebdo moved into new top-security premises, the magazine has continued to raise ire. (Photo: AFP) Paris: French police are probing new threats against satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, the target of a jihadist attack in January 2015 that left 12 dead, a legal source said on Wednesday. The publication has received a series of threatening messages on its Facebook page since June 8, and on June 22 a hand-written letter was posted to the newsroom containing the same threats and the words "Allahu akbar" (God is greatest). "No one has been arrested at this stage and investigations are ongoing," said the source. Jihadist brothers Said and Cherif Kouachi gunned down eight Charlie staff as well as several others in and around the building in the attack on the magazine whose drawings of the Prophet Mohammed drew the fury of Muslims around the world. An accomplice, gunman Amedy Coulibaly killed a policewoman a day later and then took shoppers hostage at a Jewish supermarket, shooting dead four. All three jihadists were killed in police raids. While the staff of Charlie Hebdo moved into new top-security premises, the magazine has continued to raise ire, refusing self-censorship in the wake of the attacks. Turkish police on Thursday rounded up 13 suspected IS jihadists in raids at 16 different locations across Istanbul, the official said. (Photo: AP) Ankara: The three bombers who blew themselves up at Istanbul's international airport this week were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, a Turkish official said on Thursday. "We are prepared to confirm the nationalities of the Istanbul attackers as Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. There has been no claim of responsibility for Tuesday's carnage at Ataturk airport, which left 42 people dead, but the government has pointed the finger of blame at the Islamic State group. Turkish police on Thursday rounded up 13 suspected IS jihadists in raids at 16 different locations across Istanbul, the official said. Another nine suspects were detained in the western port city of Izmir, but the official did not confirm whether the arrests were linked to the attack. The 18-year-old Pakistani teenager who survived a shot to the head by the Taliban had relived the incident and her life in the Swat Valley in I am Malala, co-written with Sunday Times journalist Christina Lamb. London: Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai and her family have become millionaires as a result of income from her memoir describing life under Taliban rule in Pakistan's picturesque Swat valley and appearances on the lecture circuit around the world. The 18-year-old Pakistani teenager who survived a shot to the head by the Taliban had relived the incident and her life in the Swat Valley in I am Malala, co-written with Sunday Times journalist Christina Lamb. A company set up to protect the rights to her life story had 2.2 million pounds in the bank by August 2015 and made a pre-tax profit of 1.1 million pounds. Malala, her father Ziauddin Yousafzai, and her mother Toor Pekai are joint shareholders of the company, Salarzai Ltd, The Times reports. They are now based in Birmingham, where Malala who became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 attends Edgbaston High School for Girls. Her autobiography, which documents her experiences growing up in Pakistans Swat Valley under Taliban rule and being shot while travelling home from school on the bus with her friends, was published in October 2013 by Weidenfeld & Nicolson in the UK in a deal reported to be worth about 2 million pounds. It has sold at least 1.8 million copies worldwide, according to Neilsen Book Research, including 287,000 copies in the UK, earning 2.2 million pounds in Britain in paperback and hardback sales. This is the second straight year of rise in Pakistan- linked funds in Swiss banks, while the same for India has fallen for the second consecutive year and stood at CHF 1,217 million (Rs 8,392 crore) at the end of 2015 - a decline of 33 per cent. (Photo: AP) Zurich: Defying a global trend, money kept by Pakistani nationals in Swiss banks has risen by over 16 per cent to 1.5 billion francs (over Rs 10,000 crore), exceeding that of Indians. As per the latest data released on Thursday by Switzerland's central bank SNB (Swiss National Bank), the total funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks stood at CHF 1,513 million at the end of 2015, up nearly 16 per cent from CHF 1,301 billion a year ago. This included funds amounting to CHF 1,477 million held directly by Pakistani nationals and entities and CHF 36 million through fiduciaries or wealth managers. This is the second straight year of rise in Pakistan- linked funds in Swiss banks, while the same for India has fallen for the second consecutive year and stood at CHF 1,217 million (Rs 8,392 crore) at the end of 2015 - a decline of 33 per cent. This is the first time in the last three years that the funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks have exceeded that of Indians. In case of China, the total funds declined from CHF 8.16 billion to CHF 7.4 billion. A number of other major countries also saw their funds falling in Swiss banks amid a global clampdown against the erstwhile banking secrecy walls in the Alpine nation. The money of US clients in Swiss banks fell to CHF 195 billion in 2015, from CHF 244 billion a year ago, though the same for the UK clients surprisingly rose from CHF 321 billion to CHF 345 billion. However, these official figures disclosed by SNB do not include the money that the foreign clients of Swiss banks might have kept in the name of shadow entities or shell companies. Also, these figures do not indicate towards the quantum of alleged black money, which has been a matter of a major political debate in various countries including India and Pakistan. As per the SNB data, the total funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks stood at a record high level of CHF 3.43 billion in the year 2001, but has come down considerably since then. By 2013, it fell to as low as CHF 1.23 billion, the lowest since 1996 since when this data is available. However, it has risen by 6 per cent and 16 per cent during the last two years 2014 and 2015, respectively. In case of India, the quantum of such funds has fallen in the last two years. 'The police raided 16 locations to detain 13 ISIS suspects, including three foreign nationals,' a Turkish official said. (Photo: AP) Ankara: Turkish police on Thursday rounded up 13 suspects over the triple suicide bombings at Istanbul's international airport that left 41 people dead, a Turkish official said. "Earlier today, the police raided 16 locations to detain 13 ISIS suspects, including three foreign nationals," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Read: Istanbul airport blast: 41 killed, 239 injured in suspected ISIS attack He did not reveal the nationalities of the foreign suspects, but said it was "probable" that at least one of the Ataturk airport bombers was a foreign national. The Hurriyet newspaper identified one of the three bombers that struck Turkey's busiest airport on Tuesday as Osman Vadinov, a Chechen of Russian origin. Read: Attacker 'randomly opened fire' before Istanbul airport blasts: witness Vadinov reportedly crossed into Turkey from Raqa in Syria, the stronghold of the Islamic State group which authorities believe was likely behind the attack. There has been no claim of responsibility for the carnage at Ataturk, one of Europe's busiest airports. Turkey has cracked down on IS sleeper cells at home after a string of deadly attacks blamed on the jihadists, who have seized swathes of land in Iraq and Syria, right up to the Turkish border Special forces also rounded up several IS suspects in Istanbul early on Thursday, says officials. (Photo: Representational Image/ AFP) Ankara: Turkish security forces have killed two suspected members of the Islamic State group on the Syrian border, one of whom was believed to be planning a suicide attack in Turkey, news agencies reported Thursday. The two men were shot dead on Saturday, days ahead of the triple suicide bombings at Istanbul's Ataturk airport on Tuesday that left 42 people dead, the Anadolu and Dogan agencies said. One of the suspects, named as Mohammad Arab, was planning an attack either in the Turkish capital Ankara or in the southern city of Adana, Dogan added. Ankara was the scene of Turkey's worst ever attack last October when 103 people were killed in suicide bombings blamed on IS. Special forces also rounded up several IS suspects in Istanbul early on Thursday, Dogan said. No details were given about their identity. The government has said Islamic State jihadists were likely behind the carnage at Istanbul airport, one of the busiest hubs in Europe. Turkey has cracked down on IS after a string of deadly attacks blamed on the jihadists, who have seized swathes of land in Iraq and Syria, right up to the Turkish border. On the ground, our forces have helped to train more than 18,000 members of the Iraqi security forces, including Kurdish forces. (Photo: Representational Image/AFP) London: Britain will send 250 additional soldiers to Iraq to help the Iraqi Army build on the recent success in combating Islamic State terrorists who have occupied large swathes of land in the country. Most of the soldiers will be going to Al Asad airbase at Anbar province in western Iraq, around 160 km west of the capital Baghdad. The decision to send additional troops comes less than a week ahead of the Iraq inquiry report into Britain's involvement in the Iraq War. The troops include 50 trainers, 90 soldiers to protect the base and 30 to set up a headquarters. About 80 engineers will work on infrastructure for six months. "Iraqi forces have Daesh [ISIS] on the back foot and are retaking territory, hitting its finances and striking its leadership. This deployment will help the Iraqi forces to build on this success and push them back further," Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said. Earlier this month, ISIS lost its stronghold of Fallujah, one of the first big Iraqi cities to fall in the hands of dreaded terror group in January 2014. The UK government has asserted that the forces will not be there to fight and will be confined to the limits of the base. In his written statement to UK Parliament, Fallon added, "Our strike aircraft have now conducted around 900 air strikes against ISIS targets in Iraq and Syria and our intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft provide niche and highly-valued capabilities. "On the ground, our forces have helped to train more than 18,000 members of the Iraqi security forces, including Kurdish forces. As Iraqi forces continue to regain territory and begin preparatory operations to retake Mosul, it is important that the coalition continues to provide the support needed to allow them to make further progress," he said. Around 300 British personnel are already in the country helping to train Iraqi and Kurdish forces. American generals had asked Britain to boost its troop contingent to the international coalition as commanders hope to capitalise on momentum which has seen ISIS lose large parts of its self-style Caliphate in recent months. UK combat operations in Iraq had officially ended in April 2009. Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan. (Photo: AP) Kabul: A suicide bomber attacked a bus carrying trainee policemen on Thursday, killing 30 people, an Afghan official said. The attack took place some 20 kilometers west of the Afghan capital, Kabul, according to Mousa Rahmati, the district governor of Paghman. He said the trainee police officers were returning from a training center in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave. A spokesman for the Interior Ministry confirmed the location of the attack and said a loud explosion had been reported, but did not have any further details on the incident. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack in an email sent to The Associated Press by spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Mujahid said that the attack was the work of two suicide bombers. The first, on foot, targeted the bus carrying the trainee policemen and their instructors. Then a suicide car bomber attacked 20 minutes later, when policemen had arrived at the scene to help, according to Mujahid's account. Later Thursday, the office of Afghan president Mohammed Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an "attack on humanity" and ordered an interior ministry investigation into the incident. In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Cairo condemned the attack. It also described two attackers, a first targeting the police cadets and the second striking those who rushed to help the victims. "This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramazan is abhorrent," the statement said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday condemned the terror attack in Kabul, terming it as "mindless violence". "Anguished by the attack near Kabul. I condemn this mindless violence. My thoughts & prayers with the bereaved families & the injured," he tweeted. Anguished by the attack near Kabul. I condemn this mindless violence. My thoughts & prayers with the bereaved families & the injured. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 30, 2016 The attack comes little over a week after 14 Nepali security guards who were heading to work at the Canadian embassy were killed in a massive blast that left their yellow minibus spattered with blood. China's worry now is that post its inability to generate global support for its anti-India position on NSG at Seoul. (Photo: ANI) Beijing: The Chinese leadership has pulled up Wang Qun, its lead negotiator and Director General of the Arms Control Division at the Foreign Ministry, for failing to drum up significant global support for China's position in Seoul which blocked India's entry into the NSG. Highly placed Western and Chinese sources said that Wang Qun had told Beijing that at least one third of the NSG nations would endorse China's position. However, the position was totally in the reverse, with as many as 44 nations backing India and China only having the support of four nations. Beijing now fears that the fallout of the NSG outcome could have an impact on a crucial verdict expected soon from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague in a case brought by the Philippines concerning China's territorial reclamation activities in the South China Sea. As things stand, Beijing's stance flies in the face of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of which it is a signatory. China's big fear now is India could use the same ploy that Beijing used in Seoul at the NSG plenary and back The Hague Court's decision which is likely to go against China. Highly-placed sources said that the global support for India's position at the NSG could well be leveraged by New Delhi to back the enforcement of 'The Hague Judgment' a scenario which could isolate China and could even trigger its exit from UNCLOS. Informed sources said the focus now shifts from the NSG to the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague where a judgment is expected, which when enforced, could force China to give up land in favour of the Philippines. China has launched a worldwide propaganda campaign enlisting academics, legal experts, diplomats and foreign governments stating that such legal proceedings are invalid. But this position of China's is contrary to the rules laid out by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of which China is a signatory. China claims that it has the support of 60 nations who believe that arbitration at The Hague is illegal. China's worry now is that post its inability to generate global support for its anti-India position on NSG at Seoul, its position at the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague could meet the same fate, and this time, it could have to pay a very heavy price. High-level sources said on background that Seoul's outcome has 'shocked China'. The government thought that its emerging superpower status would guarantee the support of at least 15 nations against India. Western sources said China is 'very sensitive' to possibilities of being isolated, and the developments and outcome at Seoul 'came quite close to isolation'. China is paranoid about might happen once the Permanent Court of Arbitration gives a verdict against Beijing and in favour of Philippines. To generate global support for its position at the NSG, sources said China is silently bracing itself for a Seoul fallout which would mean an overwhelming International demand on Beijing to accept The Hague court's Judgment and give land to The Philippines. All of this, said sources, illustrates that China is happy to enforce the letter of the law when it suits its purpose, but is prepared to reject Internationally accepted regulations when it feels its interests are under threat. Its stand at the NSG meet in Seoul fits into that pattern. Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif had gone to London on May 22 for a regular medical checkup but was diagnosed with a heart complication by doctors who suggested surgery. (Photo: AFP) Islamabad: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who underwent an open-heart surgery in London last month, will return to Pakistan shortly after Eid, his daughter said on Thursday. "Shortly after Eid, Insha'Allah," the Prime Minister's daughter Maryam Nawaz Sharif tweeted when someone asked when her father will return to Pakistan. Sharif was discharged from hospital on June 6 after he underwent an open-heart surgery on May 31. The 66-year-old PML-N leader had gone to London on May 22 for a regular medical checkup but was diagnosed with a heart complication by doctors who suggested surgery.This was Sharif's second cardiac procedure in five years. Meanwhile, in a message to the people of Pakistan, Sharif asked his party leaders and workers not to organise any lavish welcome ceremony for him on his return. The Prime Minister also said that "as soon as doctors would allow him to travel, he will be present among his own people." "The holy month of Ramazan was ending, Eid-ul-Fitr was on its way, and people should prepare for Eid festivities according to their religious and cultural traditions," he said. Priyanka Chopra is taking over Hollywood with her sizzling performances in shows and movies. However, Kareena Kapoor Khan says having a career in Hollywood like fellow actor Priyanka is not feasible for her as her priorities in life are different from the Quantico star. When asked what her thoughts were on the fellow actors success, Kareena said she does not want to conquer the world. My priorities are very different. I think its amazing what Priyanka has done. But I don't think I could ever do something like that. I want to be a married working woman. My responsibilities are a lot more different than hers. I have a husband, I would like to start a family. I cant give up everything and move to LA. Thats not me. The kind of work that these girls have put in, you need to have that kind of dedication of wanting to achieve so much and do it so wonderfully. Also, maybe Im lazy. I don't want to conquer the world but I dont mind having a little place of my own. Its as simple as that, she said. The Ki & Ka star, 35, and the 33-year-old former Miss World shared screen space in 2004 romantic-thriller Aitraaz. It was a romantic thriller which also starred Akshay Kumar, along with Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal and Annu Kapoor in supporting roles. The music was composed by Himesh Reshammiya, with lyrics by Sameer. The Delhi governments programme to combat HIV/AIDS through trained workers has taken a hit due to a shortage of funds to pay these peer educators. The peer educators are community workers who interact at the grassroots level with groups that are vulnerable to contracting HIV/AIDS, and educate them on preventive measures. They work with NGOs, but their honorariums are paid by the Delhi State AIDS Control Society (DSACS), an autonomous body under the state government. The DSACS has been unable to pay their salaries since April. Although it has promised to pay out the salaries from April to September, in advance, by June-end, the NGOs are sceptical. Several peer educators have already quit the job due to non-payment of salaries, according to the NGOs. High-risk groups like transgenders, men having sex with men (MSM), female sex workers, truck drivers and, people who inject drugs are counselled on issues related to HIV/AIDS. The DSACS is unable to pay the salaries of the peer educators. So they are leaving the profession. The projects are also being scaled down with several peer educators leaving. Several NGOs have exited working with the government as their workers could not be paid. In the coming months, the numbers will go down drastically due to the fund shortage, said a senior official at the DSACS. The DSACS carries out its activities with the Centres National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). While the HIV kits and condoms are directly supplied by NACO, the state wing is responsible for paying the peer educators. The DSACS is now considering approaching the Delhi government for a grant or a loan to fill the gap. Each peer educator is paid around Rs 3,300 every month. The peer educators are the foot soldiers who ensure that the community members benefit, said Francis Joseph, secretary, Delhi Drug Users Forum, which is working with people who injects themselves with drugs. From 20 peer educators, currently we have seven such workers. There is no motivation for such workers with the project being scaled down. Several outreach workers handling target intervention programmes have also left. Only field teams can make the project successful, said Joseph. At Society for Peoples Awareness, Care & Empowerment (SPACE), the number of peer educators has come down from 25 to 15 since April. Since then, less meetings are being conducted with the target groups. We cannot reach out to more people with less peer educators. Several other programmes like advocacy programmes, community events and disseminating educational material on the preventive measures of HIV/AIDS have also been hit, said Anjan Joshi, SPACE. Earlier, the Delhi government had cut down on advertisements after the Centre slashed funds for AIDS intervention programmes. Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and opposition National Conference leader Omar Abdullah Wednesday slammed his successor Mehbooba Mufti over her silence on security situation in the state. While speaking during the Zero Hour Omar, who is also Leader of Opposition, said security is a major issue and concern of people in the state. But the government is silent on it. Chief Minister should inform the House about the prevailing situation in the state, he demanded. We get information about what has been happening from the last week through media. Chief Minister barely visits the House. We want to know about the security situation, he said. Newspapers in Delhi are reporting that BSF is replacing CRPF. We dont whether this true. We want to hear from you (Mehbooba Mufti). The Opposition parties cornered the government over the security situation in the state post Pampore attack that left eight CRPF men and over 21 others wounded. They alleged that the government was silent over the issue when reports were appearing in media that New Delhi was mulling different strategies following the Pampore attack. Teams from Home Ministry and Defense Ministry have already visited the state to assess situation. But it appears that our government is less concerned about it, NC MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar said. CPI-M MLA, M Y Tarigami joined NC and expressed his concern over the security situation. The Minister for CAPD Choudhary Zulfikar Ali informed the House that situation is being assessed by the government. Government is concerned about the security situation. Situation is being assessed. But since the issue being sensitive, everything can be discussed in the House, Ali said. However, the ministers reply infuriated the Opposition. Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh said that it is basically a proxy war which is being fought. Government will come up with a detailed statement about the security situation in the state on Thursday, Singh said. Slaughtering of Bakra does not mean Qurbani the traditional style of sacrifice by Muslims, said Actor Irrfan Khan who spoke to Deccan Herald on the sidelines of the promotion of his upcoming flick Madari, in Jaipur. Irrfan told Deccan Herald, The meaning of Qurbani is to sacrifice something which is close to you instead of any goat or sheep which you just buy to sacrifice. Before sacrificing we should share a bond with that thing otherwise just killing of an animal will not serve the purpose. Nowadays we have lost the relevance behind such religious activities and perform these rituals without knowing the meaning behind them. While reacting to Pahlaj Nihalani's (Chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification) recent objection to certain scenes in Anurag Kashyp's Udta Punjab and subsequent clearing after intervention of the court, Irfan demanded that Rule Book used by CBFC should undergo a tremendous amendment. He told Deccan Herald, "CBFC has a power to certify a movie not to censor it. It is a statutory censorship and classification body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. It is tasked with "regulating the public exhibition of films under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act 1952 but it tries to fiddle with the creativity and takes away the artistic freedom of the director." He insisted that some of its clause are very old and obsolete and need to undergo change as it becomes a hurdle when a director tries to portray our society through films. Irrfan criticized Bollywood fraternity for not having unity and at the same time praised south indian film fraternity who share a strong bond and tackle CBFC rules with ease. He stressed the need of forming a board within Bollywood industry. Praising South Indian Film Industry , he said, South Indian film industry is much organised and have proper rules for film promotion. They fix the budget of the promotion according to its cost. Whereas in Hindi film industry sometimes we end up spending 10 crore rupees on promotion of a 10 crore budget film. When Deccan Herald asked Irrfan about the recent controversial statement by Salman Khan, he said, Actors are human beings only so one should not expect much from them. They are no supreme powers hence slip of tongue is acceptable. China will not accept any third party settlement with regard to territorial and maritime disputes and reject any ruling by an international tribunal on a case filed by the Philippines over the contentious South China Sea issue, a senior diplomat has said. "The Arbitral Tribunal in the South China Sea, (SCS) arbitration established at the unilateral request of the Republic of the Philippines claimed that it would issue the so-called final award on 12 July 2016," a statement issued by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said. "I hereby once again emphasise that the Arbitral Tribunal has no jurisdiction over the case and the relevant subject-matter, and that it should not have heard the case or rendered the award," he said. His comments came after the tribunal said it will hand down a ruling on the case on July 12. China claims all most all of the SCS. Its claim is firmly contested by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan which have overlapping claims over the area. In his statement Hong said the Philippines unilaterally initiated the arbitration in 2013. "The Chinese government immediately declared that it would neither accept nor participate in the arbitration initiated by the Philippines, a position that has since been repeatedly reiterated," he said. Subsequently, China also questioned the legality of the arbitration saying that "has no jurisdiction over the case, and that the Chinese government's non-acceptance of and non-participation in the arbitration are solidly founded in international law". Ahead of the verdict of the tribunal several Chinese officials said openly that the judgement may go against China's stand. But the tribunal constituted under the UN Convention on Law of Seas (UNCLOS) has continued with its proceedings. Beijing had launched massive campaign to gain diplomatic support for its stand by approaching various Asian, African and Latin American countries to back its stand. The foreign ministry claimed over 70 countries back its stand on the arbitration. Hong said, "The Philippines' unilateral initiation of arbitration breaches international law." "The essence of the subject-matter of the arbitration is beyond the scope of UNCLOS and does not concern the interpretation or application of UNCLOS," he said. "With regard to territorial issues and maritime delimitation disputes, China does not accept any means of third party dispute settlement or any solution imposed on China," he said. The Chinese government will continue to abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, and will continue to work with states directly concerned to resolve the relevant disputes in the South China Sea through negotiation and consultation on the basis of respecting historical facts and in accordance with international law, so as to maintain peace and stability in the SCS," he said. India is the only nation where a majority of people think US is more powerful today than it was a decade ago, according to a new multi-nation survey which also found that Donald Trump's ability to manage foreign policy if he were to become President was "strongly negative." The survey released today by the Pew Research Center said that overall there's no strong consensus about the trajectory of American power over the past decade. But when asked if the US plays a less, more or equally important and powerful role as a world leader compared with 10 years ago, respondents in most countries were fairly divided. "Japan is the only country in which a majority thinks the US is less important and powerful than it was a decade ago, while India (57 pc) is the only nation with a majority saying the US is more important and powerful (than it did a decade ago)," Pew said. The survey also said in the nearly half of the 15 nations polled, the share of public confidence in Trump was in single digits. Pew said less than a quarter of people surveyed expressed confidence in Trump - the presumptive Republican nominee. The views of respondents on him were strongly negative, it said. Overwhelming majorities in most of the countries surveyed have little or no confidence in his ability to handle international affairs. This distaste was especially strong in Sweden, where 82 per cent have no confidence in him, Pew said. Most Australians (87 pc), Canadians (80 pc) and Japanese (82 pc) also lack confidence in Trump. In India, 67 per cent do not offer an opinion on Trump, while 18 per cent Indians have no confidence in him as against 14 per cent having confidence in him. In China, there was a split between those who have no confidence in Trump (40 pc) and those who do not offer an opinion (39 pc), it said. It said most Australians and Japanese gave Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton a positive rating. According to the poll, only 28 per cent of Indians showed confidence in Clinton's ability to manage world affairs. 16 per cent said they have no confidence in her. Surprisingly, a majority (56 pc) in India has no opinion of her. Clinton got positive marks from Canadians (60 pc), Australians (70 pc), and from the Japanese (70 pc). Views on her among the Chinese were mixed, with 37 per cent saying they have confidence in her, 35 per cent saying they do not have confidence and 28 per cent with no opinion. Still, ratings for the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee were consistently lower than President Barack Obama's, it said. In the four Asia-Pacific nations surveyed Australia, China, India and Japan Obama receives relatively positive marks. Obama enjoys high ratings from Canadians (83 pc) and Australians (84 pc). Obama is viewed positively by majorities in Japan (78 pc) and India (58 pc). In China, 52 per cent have confidence in his abilities to handle international affairs. Sri Lanka will return by 2018 all military-held land seized from Tamil civilians during the nearly three decades long civil war with the LTTE, Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said today. "Last week the military released 701 acres of land to the District Secretary of Jaffna, out of which, 201.3 acres were handed over to their original owners on June 25," Samaraweera said while addressing the 32nd UN Human Rights Council sessions in Geneva. All military-held lands owned by Tamil civilians will be handed back by 2018, he said. "The Government has clearly instructed the military that all the land obtained from civilians must be released latest by 2018, and that the owners of whatever land that may be required for national installations or development purposes would be fully compensated," he said. Samaraweera also assured a fair trial for victims of rights abuses. "I can assure you that the mechanism that is finally set up will be one which has the confidence of the stakeholders, especially the victims, with fair trial and due process guarantees," Samaraweera said. Reconciliation does not happen at once, overnight. It requires effort, hard work, commitment, and careful, continuous, concrete action. It is not an end that can be reached where no further work is required, he added. Samaraweera said his government was dealing with the serious and controversial issue of setting up a judicial mechanism with international assistance. "Sri Lanka is no stranger to international assistance and participation with many investigative and forensic experts having worked with us in the past. Of course, there are varying views on the nature, level and role of international participation," he said. Both President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe have publicly declined to have foreign participation in then accountability mechanism. Samaraweera said Sri Lanka was committed to implement the co-sponsored resolution of 2015 to protect the dignity of State, People and Security Forces, we will implement the proposals with patience, discipline and restraint. The Sri Lankan Foreign Minister refuted the allegation of slowness in the process of accountability. The Government recognises that, in order for the transitional justice process to be effective in achieving the desired objectives, the necessary mechanisms should be properly sequenced, integrated and coordinated, he said. Several confidence-building-measures such as the release of Tamils-owned lands, lifting of travel restrictions to the North and de-escalating the military presence have been taken since January as part of efforts to ensure reconciliation after three decades of civil war with the LTTE that claimed more than 100,000 lives. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying police cadets killed 37 people and wounded 40 others today, an Afghan official said. The attack took place in Paghman district, some 20 kilometers west of the Afghan capital, Kabul, according to Mousa Rahmati, the district governor of Paghman. The first suicide attacker struck two buses carrying trainee policemen, and a second attacker targeted those who rushed to the scene to help and hit a third bus, Rahmati said. He said that four civilians were among those killed. The cadets were returning from a training center in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave, Rahmati said. A spokesman for the Interior Ministry confirmed the location of the attack and said a loud explosion had been reported, but did not have any further details on the incident. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack in an email sent to AP by spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Mujahid said that the attack was the work of two suicide bombers. The first targeted the bus carrying the trainee policemen and their instructors. A second bomber attacked 20 minutes later, when policemen had arrived at the scene to help, according to Mujahid's account. Later today, the office of Afghan president Mohammed Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an "attack on humanity" and ordered an interior ministry investigation into the incident. In a statement, the US Embassy in Kabul condemned the attack. "This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramazan is abhorrent," the statement said. A photo of the suspect in the murder of a 24-year-old woman IT professional was today released by the city police, four days after they made public CCTV images of the incident at a railway station here. Police released a 'file photo' of the man, saying it had been 'developed' by them. The photo shows a man wearing blue shirt and black pants, similar to what was seen in the CCTV footage released by the police on Sunday. No further details were made available. Police are yet to crack the murder of S Swathi, who was hacked to death on Friday at the busy Nungambakkam railway station, prompting a furore by the civil society and political parties. The woman, employed with IT major Infosys, was allegedly killed by an unidentified man on a platform while she was waiting to board a train on her way to office around 6:30 AM. The Madras High Court had also come down on the state government, warning it of suo motu intervention if there was any slackness in the probe. The probe, originally done by the Government Railway Police, was later shifted to the city police who have now formed eight special teams to crack the murder. The weapon believed to have been used in the murder, a sickle, had been recovered last week from the railway track near the station premises, police added. The first shipment of 1.2 tonnes of mangoes and pomegranates produced at Innova Agri Bio Park here was flagged off for export to the US today. The Park is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) project supported by the Central Ministry of Food Processing Industries and Food Karnataka Limited, a Special Purpose Vehicle under the state government. "This is a testimony of the government and industry-led Best Management Practice (BMP) to deliver real on-the-ground results, improving on farm prosperity, productivity, agro-environmental sustenance," State Health Minister K R Ramesh Kumar said, after flagging off the shipment. The shipment contained 250 boxes of mangoes and 50 boxes of pomegranates under the brand 'FarmRus', a company release said. Innova Agri Bio Park Chairman and Managing Director Krishna Ella said the committed support from the state government and company's partners had resulted in the shipment of 'FarmRus' to US, validating the project model. "This will bolster the agricultural industry and the very concept of Agri Bio Park." Innova Agri Bio Park Ltd is only the Gamma Irradiation facility in India which is certified by the US, integrated with pack house comprising automatic hot water treatment, sorting, grading and packing facilities, the release said. The Park enables both farmers and exporters from southern states to save a lot in exporting mangoes to the US, it said. Among the features of the park located at Malur, about 45 km from Bengaluru, is the Gamma Irradiation Facility established with an investment of Rs 35 crore, the release said. India's first integrated defence communication network was today launched here enabling the army, air force, navy and the Special Forces Command to share situational awareness for a faster decision-making process. The Defence Communication Network (DCN), a strategic, highly secure and scalable system, has a pan-India reach -- from Ladakh to the North East to island territories. Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, who inaugurated the network at South Block, emphasised on the need to keep the network completely secure all the time. He said a false sense of security and safety should not creep in and the Standard Operating Procedures should be followed. Parrikar said this network is a step towards jointmanship that the government is pushing for in the armed forces. While all the three forces have their own command, communication and intelligence networks, this is the first time when there will be a dedicated network for greater synergy. "Technology decides how the wars are fought these days. The network has a pan-India reach and is a testimony to the fact that Indian Army and the Corps of Signals are well placed to meet any challenges and responsibilities which come their way," Lt Gen Nitin Kohli, Signal Officer in Chief, said. Built by HCL under a nearly Rs 600 crore project, DCN offers high quality voice, video and data services covering 111 entities spread across the country. It is capable of working on terrestrial as well as satellite mode of communication and has also been fixed onboard different military vehicles. A seven-year-old girl was stabbed to death three weeks after being raped by her 14-year-old neighbour, with the victim's family blaming the relatives of the accused for the murder. The incident took place last night at Sikariha Chhata village under Mauaima police station area, 50 km from the city, SP Rajesh Srivastava said today. He said the girl was abducted while she was sleeping with her mother. When she did not find her daughter, she raised an alarm after which the neighbours started looking for her. The police soon rushed to the spot and the girl's body was recovered from a field with injury marks on her body, he said. The victim was earlier this month raped by the boy in her neighbourhood and an FIR was registered following a complaint by her mother after which the accused was arrested and sent to juvenile home. An FIR has been lodged in this connection in which the mother has alleged the involvement of the family members after which the uncle of the accused has been arrested, he said. The police force has been deployed in the area, the officer said, adding the father of the victim, who works in Meerut has been informed and last rites of the girl have been performed. Pakistan today said it has asked India to provide "more evidence" for the early completion of the Mumbai attack trial in which LeT operations commander Zaki-ur Rehman Lakhvi and six others are accused. "Our foreign secretary has written to India's foreign secretary to provide more evidence so that Mumbai case trial is competed. The response from the Indian side is still awaited," Foreign Office Spokesman Nafees Zakaria said at a press briefing. Zakaria, however, did not elaborate when exactly the letter was written. Pakistan arrested seven Lashkar-e-Taiba-linked militants, including Lakhvi, for their role in the 2008 Mumbai attack in which 166 people were killed. Mumbai attack mastermind Lakhvi, Abdul Wajid, Mazhar Iqbal, Hamad Amin Sadiq, Shahid Jameel Riaz, Jamil Ahmed and Younis Anjum are accused of abetment to murder, attempted murder, planning and executing the Mumbai attack. Lakhvi is living at an undisclosed location after he got released from jail on bail a year ago. The other six suspects are in Adiala Jail Rawalpindi. The case has been going on in the country for more than six years. India has been urging Pakistan to complete the trial at the earliest. It has said that enough evidence has been shared with Islamabad to prosecute the accused. However, Pakistani officials say India has not provided enough evidence needed to successfully complete the trial. Meanwhile, Zakaria also said that the dialogue was the only option to resolve all outstanding issues with India. "It has been said many times earlier that peace talks is the only way forward for relations between Pakistan and India," he said. Asked about threats against Pakistani artists in India by extremists, he said there are many other people in India who welcome and support artists and promote people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. "Both India and Pakistan agree that atmospherics should be improved and people-to-people contacts always help," Zakaria said. He said religious tourism is part of such efforts and Pakistan has been encouraging it. Zakaria also said that influential US Senator John McCain would shortly visit Pakistan and hold important talks on various issues. Congress today came out in support of the proposed July 11 strike by central government employees in protest against the 7th Pay Commission recommendations which the party termed as the "worst" in the last 70 years and accused the Modi government of being "unjust" to them. Senior party spokesman Ajay Maken said the central government employees are a "frustrated and disappointed" lot as the government decided "not to make improvement" in the recommendations. "It is unfortunate that the employees, who were given 40 per cent hike in their respective pay in the past by previous governments, had now been recommended only 14.27 per cent. This is unjust and humiliating for the beneficiaries," he told reporters. Noting that the Federation of Government Employees, which includes employees of Indian Railways, civilian employees of Ordnance Factories and Post and Telegraph, has decided to go on strike from July 11 to express their resentment, he said "We support them and hope good sense will prevail and government of India will review the decision." "In the history of CPC in the last about 70 years, this is the worst recommendations and needed major surgery to make it acceptable to the employees and meet their expectation up to some extent," Maken, a former Union Minister, said. To a question about the recommendations with regard to the Armed Forces employees and whether Congress supports them, he replied in the affirmative. "It is not that the Armed Forces are getting more and the others are getting less. Armed Forces are, rather in certain ways, are bigger sufferers.", he remarked. Making a strong pitch for a better deal to government employees, he asked "If you do not have the best brains working in the government, then how can you expect government or the government employees to protect the interest vis-a-vis the multi-nationals in this era of globalisation?" An RSS-affiliate Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh has already raised a banner of revolt against the Centre's decision on the Pay Commission recommendations and declared it would organise country-wide protests on July 8. Congress today hit back at BJP President Amit Shah telling him that he should know history of his party leaders, insisting that Shyama Prasad Mukherjee was "as much a part" of the decision as Jawaharlal Nehru on referring the Kashmir issue to UN. "The decision on Kashmir was taken by the Cabinet of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru of which Mukherjee was a member. In the meeting of the Cabinet which took the decision on taking Kashmir issue to the UN, Mukherjee did not make any point nor is there any contemporary report in the media about it." "Therefore Mukherjee was as much a part of the decision as Nehru was," senior party leader S Jaipal Reddy told PTI. Besides, he said when Nehru's government decided on special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 371 that time too Mukherjee was a member of Nehru's Cabinet. "Mukherjee resigned from the Cabinet on the ground that Sheikh Abdullah as Leader of the Jammu and Kashmir government was not being properly checkmated," he said suggesting that Mukherhjee never made an issue of representation to UN or Article 371 at that time. Reddy also emphasised that Mukherjee cannot be projected as the unifying force of pre-Partition India because "unlike Congress leaders Mukherjee was pleading loudly for partition of Bengal". "Mukherjee was accused of being involved in the 1946 riots of Dacca. So why pit Mukherjee against Nehru when record of Mukherjee is not lily white," said Reddy. Taking a dig at the BJP chief, the former Union Minister said, "Amit Shah does not know history. He should at least know history of his party leader. He is much to new to national politics. He must know history of his party leaders." Shah had yesterday blamed Nehru accusing him of having committed a "historic blunder" on Kashmir and had criticised the then Congress leadership for the Partition. Referring to the declaration of truce when Pakistan-backed tribal raiders in 1948 were being repulsed in Kashmir, he said if such a decision was not made, the Jammu and Kashmir problem would not have existed today. "Suddenly, without any reason... the reason is not known even today, truce was declared. Never has any leader of the country made such a historic blunder. If Jawaharlalji had not declared a ceasefire at that time, the Kashmir issue would not have existed," Shah had said speaking at an event here. Justice S N Dhingra Commission, which was set up to probe into grant of land licences to some companies including that of Robert Vadra's in Gurgaon during the Congress rule in Haryana, today sought six weeks more time to submit its report hours before the deadline was to end. Official sources said the Commission has sought six weeks more to submit its report. Justice Dhingra said he sought more time in order to go through some documents from a person stating "that they are documents of benami transactions of who benefitted from the grant of licence." Haryana government had earlier twice extended the term of the Dhingra Commission of Inquiry. The BJP government in the state had in December last year extended the Commission's term for a period of six months and on June 17 this year its term had been extended till today. Earlier, media reports had said the Commission was ready with its report which would have gone into mutation of a land deal between a firm M/S Skylight Hospitality owned by Robert Vadra and realty major DLF. The Rs 58-crore deal related to 3.5 acre land in Gurgaon's Shikohpur village which was sold by Vadra to DLF. In October, 2012, senior IAS officer Ashok Khemka had cancelled the mutation of the land deal between Skylight Hospitality and DLF. It was mired by controversy over allegations of undervaluation. The request for extension came in the midst of a row after Congress alleged that Justice S N Dhingra, a retired judge of the Delhi High Court, "has sought favours from government of Haryana, making him incompetent and unsuitable to deliver any verdict or report in the matter." Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda had also yesterday sought scrapping the Dhingra Commission of Inquiry, pointing out that it was "contrary to established rules and norms, without due cabinet approval and prompted by malice and political considerations". The present Manohar Lal Khattar government in Haryana had on May 14, 2015 set up the Dhingra Commission to probe issues concerning the grant of license(s) for developing commercial colonies by the Department of Town and Country Planning to some entities in Sector 83, Gurgaon. The Commission was to probe transfer or disposal of land, allegations of private enrichment, ineligibility of beneficiaries under the rules, and other connected matters, bringing Vadra land deal under the scanner. BJP had made the land deals under the previous Congress government in Haryana a major poll issue during the 2014 Lok Sabha and the state Assembly polls, alleging rules were relaxed to favour a few including Vadra, son-in-law of Congress President Sonia Gandhi. The Commission had summoned former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda but he was represented by his counsel on the two dates. The Commission also summoned 26 government officers as witnesses and examined at least 250 files pertaining to approval, grant or rejection of colony licences to various builders, and change of land use and development plans. Haryana's Health Minister Anil Vij today hit out at Hooda's criticism of the Dhingra Commission, saying "undue favours" to builders by the previous Congress regime had come under attack even from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). "CAG had also said a lot in its report earlier that government bent rules to benefit Vadra's company," Vij told reporters in Ambala. "To keep him and his the then political masters happy, Hooda had gone out of the way to dole out benefits. Why is he feeling guilty conscious? What is the need to write a letter to the Governor when the Commission was about to submit its report? "The day when the Commission of Inquiry was formed, Hooda could have said the same thing then. Now, why are the Congress leaders feeling scared and why are they making a noise about the whole thing," Vij asked. Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala charged that "Justice S N Dhingra has sought favours from government of Haryana, making him incompetent and unsuitable to deliver any verdict or report in the matter." Surjewala claimed said that Justice Dhingra is also chairman of Delhi-based Justice Gopal Singh Public Charitable Trust. "The facts are very very clear which are now in public domain. Dhingra Commission is constituted on May 14, 2015. On December 8, 2015, Justice Dhingra as head of his own Trust, that is Justice Gopal Singh Charitable Trust, moves an application to the Deputy Commissioner, Gurgaon, asking that a particular individual in Gurgaon has gifted him land for construction of a school and that money should now be utlilised out of public ex-chequer's funds, for construction of a road thereupon as also electricity poles etc. The Deputy Commissioner Gurgaon, where Dhingra Commission is headquartered, works with great urgency and says the road be constructed out of district planning funds within a week. When they realise that it can't be done, then the HRDF (Haryana Rural Development Fund) Board headed by the Chief Minister proceeds to sanction Rs 97 lakh out of which road is being constructed..," Surjewala alleged while talking to reporters. "..Why is government's ex-chequer's money being utilised to build a road to the Trust property when many other villages in surrounding areas have been demanding for construction of roads, none of which has been undertaken. When the bodies of Islamic State fighters are recovered on the Syrian battlefield, the passports found on them have often been stamped in Turkey, which thousands of recruits pass through on their way to join the terror group. Fighters who call relatives abroad often do so using Turkish cellphone numbers, and when they need cash, they head to Western Union offices in southern Turkey, according to court and intelligence documents. From the start of the Islamic States rise through the chaos of the Syrian war, Turkey has played a central, if complicated, role in the groups story. For years, it served as a rear base, transit hub and shopping bazaar for the IS, and at first, that may have protected Turkey from the violence the group has inflicted elsewhere. Now, the Turkish government and Western officials say the suicide bombings at Istanbuls main airport on Tuesday bore the hallmarks of an IS attack, and they have added them to a growing roll call of assaults attributed to the group in Turkey in recent months. Analysts said Turkey was paying the price for intensifying its action against the Islamic State, also known as ISIS, ISIL or Daesh. Under a mounting international pressure, the country began sealing its border last year, as well as arresting and deporting suspected militants. And last summer, Turkey allowed the United States to use Incirlik Air Base to fly sorties over the groups territory in Syria and Iraq. Turkey has been cracking down on some of the transit of foreign fighters who are flowing into as well as out of Turkey, and they are part of the coalition providing support, allowing their territory to be used by coalition aircraft, the CIA director, John Brennan, said in an interview this week with Yahoo News. So there are a lot of reasons why Daesh would want to strike back. Soon after the governments decision to allow air strikes to be carried out from the base in southern Turkey, the IS began naming Turkey as a target, according to Michael Smith II, an analyst who closely tracks the groups messaging. Last fall, the cover of the groups Dabiq magazine ominously featured a photo of Turkeys president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, standing alongside President Barack Obama. The attacks attributed to the IS began around then, too, including devastating bombings in the southern city of Suruc in July 2015 and in Ankara, the capital, in October. This year, two suicide bombings targeted tourists in Istanbul. The IS was blamed for all of those attacks, yet none of them were claimed by the group, despite its habit of revelling in its violence elsewhere in the world. While officials blamed it for the attack on the Istanbul airport, the groups daily news bulletins for Tuesday and Wednesday made no mention of the bombing. Its main English-language channel on the Telegram encrypted messaging app instead posted a photo essay of fighters in fatigues posing with automatic weapons on a hill in Deir el-Zour, Syria. Some analysts saw this as the IS trying to have it both ways: punishing Turkey for starting to act against it, but leaving enough of a grey area that it avoids a full-on clash with a country that has been valuable to its operations. Still, there has clearly been a shift. The groups long honeymoon with Turkey started with the countrys aid to rebel groups that were fighting the government of Bashar Assad of Syria, often with the blessing of Western intelligence agencies, according to analysts. At the start, the IS fit into that category, though it then began focusing more on eliminating competitors than fighting Assad. Among the competitors the group was killing were Turkeys avowed enemies: Kurdish separatists sheltering in Syria and Iraq. Turkeys Western allies began accusing it of clinging to ambivalence toward the IS. Even when it began strikes against the group last summer, its actions against the Kurds were more numerous and intense. The centrality of Turkey for foreign volunteers flocking to the IS is evident in court documents and intelligence records. Dozens of young men and women were arrested by the FBI in the United States and by officials in Western Europe after they booked flights to Istanbul. Because so many of the groups foreign fighters passed through Istanbuls Ataturk Airport, the destination itself became synonymous with intent to join IS. By 2015, the group was advising recruits to book round-trip tickets to beach resorts in southern Turkey instead, and to be sure to spend a few days pretending to be a tourist as a ruse. That was the technique used by Reda Hame, a 29-year-old Parisian recruit. He explained to interrogators last summer, after he was arrested upon returning to France to carry out an attack, that he had made sure to buy a package stay at a beach resort in southern Turkey specifically because he wanted to throw off investigators, who knew to look for suspects heading to Istanbul. Thousands of pages of investigative documents from the agency, recently obtained by NYT, show that nearly all of the recruits arrested by officials in Europe had passed through Turkey on their way to join the IS, as well as on their way back. Seamus Hughes, the deputy director of George Washington Universitys Programme on Extremism, said that Turkey also figured heavily in the travel patterns of American adherents trying to join the group. Turkish SIM cards When IS fighters communicated with worried family members, it was often with Turkish SIM cards. And investigation records reviewed by The Times show that two fighters who were arrested in Austria late last year, and who the police believed were supposed to take part in the Paris attacks on Nov 13, had been sent money from their IS handler through a Western Union office in Turkey. In his fortified office in northern Syria, Redur Khalil the spokesman for the YPG, the main Syrian Kurdish group fighting the IS keeps a stack of passports found on the bodies of the fighters his group has killed. He brings them out for reporters and turns the pages to show the Turkish entry stamps they all bear: proof, he said in an interview last summer, that the terrorist groups foot soldiers are passing through Turkey. The IS prisoners being held by the Kurds, whom The Times interviewed in the presence of a YPG minder, all said that they had moved freely across the Turkish border into Syria. Bulent Aliriza, director of the Turkey Project at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, said Turkey and its Western allies had not been quick enough to recognise the threat the IS would pose. He said that when the rebel groups in Syria began to gain strength, Turkey had nods of approval from the CIA and MI6, the British intelligence agency, to allow arms and volunteers across its border and into rebel camps. Where Turkey can be accused of negligence is failing to understand, just as Pakistan did with the Taliban, that these radicals who crossed Turkey to get into Syria would morph into an organisation that not only threatened the West, but ultimately itself, Aliriza said. The threat assessment simply did not happen fast enough. I have received complaints galore from the people about the shortcomings at district hospital. People are prefer to get treated at private hospitals because you do not discharge your duties properly. Because of your laxity, people have lost faith in the government hospital. Why should you be paid for doing nothing, this is how Health Minister K R Ramesh Kumar took the doctors and paramedic staff during his surprise visit to district hospital here on Thursday. The shortcoming in service and facility at the district hospital left the minister red-faced. The minister, after a while regained his composure and said, I am not here to punish you. I am just trying to remind your responsibility. If you face any problem, tells us about the same. The government will resolve your problems. The minister reviewed facilities at general ward, pediatrics department, emergency ward, dialysis, orthopedics department during his visit. Ramesh Kumar obtained information about the facilities and the shortcomings in the hospital from District Surgeon Dr Eshwaraiah. When a patient named Hayath Bi, who has sustained fracture in leg, poured out her woes to the minister, he ordered to arrange for ambulance and shift her to Bowring Hospital in Bengaluru. The minister told the ayahas/ward boys to accept money given by the parents or relatives of the newborn but not to harass the relatives for the money as everbody cannot afford to pay, he said. Speaking to reporters later in the day, the minister said that he made surprise visit to district hospital following several complaints about the shortcoming in the service and facility in the hospital. The minister said that he had ordred the hospital authorities to increase two-bed-facility at PICU in pediatrics department to eight-bed facility. There is shortage of doctors in dialysis department. Only one doctor is functioning currently while the sanctioned posts of the said department is eight. I have ordered the district surgeon to appoint doctors on contract basis, the minister said. The minister said that as the national highway passes through the city and accident-related cases are high, steps would be taken to set up CT scan centre in the hospital. District Surgeon Dr Eshwaraiah, District Health Officer Dr N Shashikala and staff were present. Rushing to tap the discontent among the central government employees over the Seventh Pay Commissions salary hike, the Congress on Thursday demanded a review of the decision. Terming the overall 23.5% pay hike lopsided and inadequate, the Congress announced its support to the strike call given by various employee unions from July 11. Senior AICC spokesman Ajay Maken accused the Narendra Modi government of planning to prune the strength of central government employees by deciding to withhold increments to those who fail to meet the benchmark for regular promotion within the first 20 years of service. The AICC fielded Maken, the Delhi Congress president, to put across the partys view on the governments decision to implement the pay panels recommendations. A large number of central government employees reside in Delhi and Maken was keen to reach out to them as the Congress is hoping on the Election Commission to disqualify 21 AAP legislators for holding an office of profit. A disqualification will necessitate bypolls. It is unfortunate that the employees who were given 40% hike in their respective pay in the past by previous governments, had now been recommended only 14.27%. This is unjust and humiliating for the beneficiaries, he told reporters. Demand for pay parity with IAS A confederation of officers of 20 civil services has asked the government to give equal pay and job-related opportunities enjoyed by those in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), DHNS reports from New delhi. The Confederation of Civil Services Association (COCSA), comprising officers of IPS, Indian Revenue Service, Indian Forest Service and Indian Audit and Accounts Service among others, said they believe the government would accede to their demand. Abducted Delhi boy Sonu, who was taken to Bangladesh by his kidnappers six years ago, returned home on Thursday following intervention by the Ministry of External Affairs. The 12-year-old was found in a child rehabilitation centre in Jessore and was handed over to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka three days ago by the local authorities. On his return, Sonu and his parents met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. The boy went missing from outside his East Delhi home in 2010. A case of kidnapping was filed and the police searched for three years before closing the case in 2013 in the absence of any breakthrough. The details of how Sonu landed in a child rehabilitation centre in Bangladesh are still not clear, but recently a person from Jessore contacted Sonus father in Delhi informing him about his son. The family then contacted the ministry, which in turn got in touch with Bangladesh authorities. A DNA test was conducted to ascertain Sonus parental lineage. Once the DNA test results were found positive, Bangladesh authorities completed the legal formalities and handed over Sonu to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. Sushma had personally instructed officials to reunite the boy with his parents. Sonu, who was kidnapped from Delhi was found in a shelter home in Bangladesh. We matched the DNA with his mother. The test is positive, she had said on Tuesday. I have found my son and I am very happy now. I would like to thank Sushma Swaraj ji, said Sonus father Mehboob. After Geeta and Gurprit cases, this is the third example of homecoming of a stranded Indian. In the first case, a deaf-and-dumb girl, who spent several years in a shelter in Pakistan, was brought back, while in the second case, a woman and her seven-year-old daughter were brought to India after they were rescued from a German refugee camp where they were kept by the womans in-laws. The Jats in Rajasthan will launch a fresh stir from July 1 in Bharatpur and Dholpur demanding their inclusion in the OBC category. Speaking to media in Jaipur, Congress legislator Vishvendra Singh threatened to intensify agitations in the two districts if the government failed to respond. We will block road, rail, power, water and all essential services in the districts, he told Deccan Herald, adding foreign tourists, ambulances and emergency medical cases will be exempt from the blockade. Singh alleged that the BJP government in Rajasthan failed to act proactively on the Jat demands of a fresh survey of the community, release of water from Gungav canal, withdrawal of cases against agitators and preventing arrest of community members during the stir. He said the government has been complacent about implementing the agreement put forth by the community and is playing with peoples sentiments. The current stir would be a protest against the non-implementation of the February 23 compromise reached by Jats that brought the agitation to an end. Anxious to prevent a medical examination of a seven-year-old rape victim, relatives of the teenager accused of raping her hacked the girl to death in Allahabad district. A class II student at a local school, the girl was raped a few days ago by the 14-year-old boy living in the neighbouring house. A medical examination on the girl was scheduled for Thursday to confirm her rape. Police said the boys relatives snatched away the girl in the wee hours on Wednesday. Her blood-stained body was later discovered in the field a few kilometres away from the village. Police sources said the victims family allegedly under pressure from the relatives of the accused did not report the rape immediately to the Mauaima police station nearest to them. The girls parents later gathered courage and reported the incident at the Mauaima station, based on which the accused was arrested and later sent to the reform home on court orders. It appears as if the girl was killed to prevent the medical examination, a district police official said in Allahabad. Police said a case of murder has been registered and some places were raided to arrest those involved in the killing. The incident triggered resentment among local people who staged a demonstration demanding the immediate arrest of those involved in the murder. Agitators also tried to stop police from burying the girls body. Saumya Gurjar, member of Rajasthan State Commission for Women, resigned on Thursday after her selfie with a rape victim went viral on social media. She along with Chairperson of SWC Suman Sharma were caught in a row, on Wednesday, after media captured Saumya while taking a selfie with the victim. The member was asked to resign after Chief Minister's Office intervened in the matter. Thursday late evening, Saumya handed over her resignation to CMO. According to BJP State President Ashok Parnami, "One should be very cautious while addressing sensitive issues. Her resignation has come as a confession of her guilt." In the selfie, both the women office bearers are seen with the victim in a cheerful mood. Saumya clicked the selfie with her tablet after completion of a hearing of the rape victim in Mahila police station (Jaipur North). The matter came to light when the two pictures, in which Gurjar is seen clicking the selfie, went viral on WhatsApp on Wednesday. After the selfie picture went viral on the internet it attracted severe criticism from numerous social groups and political parties. Demanding the resignation of the Commission Chairperson too, former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot said, "The gesture shows how insensitive BJP government is in the state. Instead of curbing the crime and being concerned towards the victim they are joyously taking selfie with her and entertaining themselves. It is very sad that a member and chairperson of Women's Commission have such a callous attitude." Suman defended the member saying she took selfie to cheer up the victim. The 30-year-old victim, who complained of domestic violence, has accused her husband and in-laws of tattooing abuses on her body after dowry demands. On Monday, an FIR was registered under Sections 498-A (Protection of Women Against Domestic Violence Act), 376 (punishment for rape)and 406 (punishment for criminal breach of trust) of the IPC. Social Welfare Minister H Anjaneya on Thursday defended a junior official and found fault with a senior IAS officer for his high handedness. Speaking to reporters here, Anjaneya came to the defence of Kalaburagi social welfare officer Vijayalakshmi Kob-alkar, against whom there is a criminal complaint. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah who was apprised about Kobalkars alleged misuse of office during the meeting of regional commissioners and deputy commissioners recently, had directed Anjaneya to suspend her. Flays RC However Anjaneya said that he chose not to suspend the official, as she was not at fault. He instead attacked Kalaburagi Regional Commissioner Aditya Amlan Biswas, who had ordered for a FIR to be lodged against Vijayalakshmi two to three months ago on charges that she had violated tender norms. Vijayalakshmi is innocent - she is not at fault. Biswas should have first served her a notice and asked the department concerned to look into the matter. His action is arbitrary in nature. He is busy trying to project himself as an honest and able administrator, which is not right, he said. When asked why the official had not been suspended even after Siddaramaiahs directions, he said that a person could not be hanged just because he/she was accused. He said that he had sent a team of officials to Kalaburagi to inquire into the matter. She will be served a notice, and action will be taken if she is proven guilty. Until then she will not be suspended. Also, she alone cannot be blamed. The role of other employees like the clerk, manager and taluk social welfare officer too should be looked into, he said. Anjaneya put the blame for the delay in finalising the socio-economic survey report on teachers of private and unaided schools in Bengaluru. He said the teachers had failed to upload the data on the internet, causing the delay. He said that he would soon call a meeting in this regard. The report will be released soon. A Delhi-based public charitable trust headed by Justice Dhingra, probing controversial land deals in Gurgaon, is courting controversy. Midway through the probe on December 8, the former Delhi high court judge had urged the Gurgaon district administration to construct paver blocks connecting the trusts pre-school, which was to be ready in 2016. The district authorities marked the letter as urgent, noting "we may try to accommodate this within the district plan". On the deputy commissioners orders, the executive engineer of the panchayat in March sanctioned Rs 95.40 lakh for the paver blocks, and nearly half the amount was released the same day. Cabinet Minister Anil Vij rubbished the charges against Justice Dhingra. On his part, Justice Dhingra denied any wrongdoing, saying his trust did not receive any money from the government. Meanwhile, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda accused the BJP government of male fide intentions and wrote to Haryana Governor K S Solanki, demanding revocation of the commission. The commission recorded statements of 43 individuals and summoned 26 government officers, including incumbent Haryana Chief Secretary D S Dhesi. Karnataka produces more than 76 lakh litres of milk every day, while the share of Bengaluru alone is 15 lakh litres of milk. But Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who has the experience of serving as minister for Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, is still not a happy man. On Thursday, he urged the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) to expand its market to other states stating that Nandini diary products were as good as Amul ones. He was speaking at the inaugural of Rs 34-crore dairy manufacturing unit in Hoskote and foundation stone laying ceremony for a warehouse and marketing office here. The state government spends Rs 950 crore every year to provide incentives to milk producers, which is directly deposited to their bank accounts. With the increase of incentive for every litre of milk from Rs 2 in 2008 to Rs 4 in 2013, the state has been able to produce surplus milk, he said. He then urged the KMF to make use of surplus milk to make by-products and expand the market to other states. Compete with Amul, take the Nandini brand outside the state. This will only be possible if you maintain high quality in all the 64 Nandini products, he said and gave an example of a Janardhan hotel in Ramanagaram which is famous for its Mysore Pak. Meanwhile, he promised that the state government would not withdraw the scheme of providing incentives to milk producers. Siddaramaiah mentioned that no person who is engaged in animal husbandry occupation had committed suicide and urged other farmers to take up the dairy farming as a parallel business. Milk for students Siddaramaiah said the government is considering the demand of providing milk to school children from the present three days to five days a week. The government spends Rs 550 crore a year towards providing milk to 1.2 crore school children. We are considering to extend it to five days a week. Energy Minister D K Shivakumar said Rs 400 crore has been earmarked to set up a dairy manufacturing unit at Kanakapura in Ramanagaram district. Cooperation Minister H S Mahadeva Prasad and Animal Husbandry minister A Manju also spoke on the occasion. P Nagaraj, president, KMF said more than 22 lakh dairy farmers are part of the 13,500 co-operative milk producers societies in the state. Nine members of a family, including five children, were killed after fire broke out at a pharmacy in the congested Juhu galli chawl of Andheri neighbourhood here on Thursday. This is one of the worst-ever fire related tragedies in recent times in the entire Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The fire started at around 6 am at Wafa Medical Store, located on the ground floor of the building. The first and second floors housed families. The shop located in Nigam Mistry chawl at Wireless Road in Juhu in Andheri-West is owned by Imtiaz (40). The deceased were identified as Saburiya Mozin Khan (65), Siddik Khan (35), Rabil Khan (28), Sabiya Khan (28), Mozhel Khan (8), Unnihay Khan (5), Aliza Khan (4), Tubba Khan (8) and Altaz Khan (3 months). Besides, a fireman, Avinash Shirgaonkar, who went for firefighting and rescue operations sustained a cut. He was treated and discharged. The Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) received the call around 6.18 am and the first team reached the spot at 6.37 am. The fire was brought under control at 7.15 am. Three fire tenders, one jumbo tanker and two ambulances were rushed to the spot. According to the police and fire brigade officials, the electric wiring and other power installations in the 120 sqft medical store caught fire. The blaze then spread to other floors of the chawl in which at least 17 people were staying. Due to a very small internal staircase in the chawl, the victims were trapped inside, sustained burn injures and were suffocated to death. A gas cylinder too exploded, compounding the problem. Engage educated women as Special Mahila Police Volunteers in villages to facilitate police outreach in gender crimes like domestic violence, child marriage and sexual harassment, the Centre has told states. The rationale behind the scheme is to provide victims an effective alternative to getting help and support as it is common knowledge that women who face violence or harassment do not find it easy to approach police. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has now written to all states to implement the scheme proposed by Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) as soon as possible in at least one or two districts with high incidence of crime against women as well as low child sex ratio. The broad mandate of these volunteers is to report incidences of violence against women such as domestic violence, child marriage, dowry harassment and violence faced by women in public spaces. She will act as a role model for the community, the Ministry of WCD said. Mahila Police have to inform police about any unpleasant behaviour or untoward incidents against women. She will also have to act as an additional intelligence collection unit for spotting suspicious arrivals in villages, information on missing women or children and deviant behaviour among students. Any woman who is above 21 years of age and Class XII pass may apply for this honorary post and a panel headed by Superintendent of Police would decide on the appointments. According to the MHA, these volunteers must be empowered, responsible, socially aware women for fostering leadership in local settings to facilitate police outreach on gender concerns. A volunteer could be any woman who is socially committed towards empowerment of women and girls, willing to raise her voice against gender based violence and support the police in creating a gender just society free from violence, the WCD Ministry said. States have been asked to encourage members of civil society and action groups working at grassroots for combating violence against women to apply as volunteers. There will be provision for monthly allowance, training, reward and recognition of volunteers. A lump-sum amount of Rs 500 a month will also be paid to cover out of pocket expenses related to mobile phone and local transportation. The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed jailed PDP leader Abdul Nazir Maudany to visit his ailing mother in Kerala. The court also said Maudany has to be accompanied by officers of the Karnataka police. A bench of Justices S A Bobde and Ashok Bhushan directed the Bengaluru court, trying Maudany in the 2008 serial blasts, to consider his plea for exemption from appearance on each date of hearing. The trial court is directed to assess the (medical) condition of the petitioner and pass an appropriate order if his presence is not necessary, the bench said. Senior advocate Raju Ramachandran, appearing for Karnataka, submitted that the issue of appearance before the trial court should be decided by the presiding judge. He opposed the plea made by advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing Maudany, to allow the petitioner exemption from appearance in the day-to-day hearing. The apex court also refused to direct the trial court to decide as many as nine cases related to the blasts in a certain time frame, saying such an order would unnecessarily burden the trial judge. It, however, said the cases should be decided expeditiously. The bench disposed of the petition filed by Maudany after Ramachandran pointed out that the petitioner was already granted conditional bail on July 11, 2014. A day after the Cabinet gave its approval to reduce the width of the proposed Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) by 25 meters, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) on Thursday came out with a new proposal to develop 100 metres of commercial zone with service roads on either side of the PRR. The BDA is the nodal agency to implement the 65-km road project that will connect the existing peripheral ring road developed by NICE. The fresh proposal by the BDA, however, has not gone well with those who will be losing their lands for the project. Speaking to media after an interaction with landlosers, Bengaluru Development Minister K J George said that the BDA will incorporate the new proposal in the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP)- 2035. As per proposal, there will be 100 meters commercial zone on either side of the PRR. The service roads of 30 meters will come after the commercial zone. The PRR width had been reduced from 100 metres to 75 metres and, 25 metres on one side of the road is kept aside as developed land. Landlosers will get a part of the developed land besides cash compensation. The BDA will collect betterment fee from properties located upto one kilometre on either side of the PRR to raise money to repay loans taken for the project. It will also sell land at a premium FAR to raise money. Creating commercial zones and service roads will decongest city and ease traffic movement on PRR, he said. As many as 1,810 acres are needed for developing the 65-km semi-circle PRR from Tumakuru Road to Electronics City. The estimated project cost, including that of land acquisition, is Rs 12,000 crore. Farmers not convinced On the outcome of his meeting with the landlosers, George said that they didnt agree to the proposal to reduce the width of the PRR and to have a service road after commercial zone. Farmers demanded full cash compensation. We have told them that their suggestions will be communicated to the Cabinet and discussed in the ensuing legislature session. The government's view will be made known them in the next meeting, he said. Farmers questioned the legality of reducing the road width. The PRR was sanctioned in 2006 and the Supreme Court had approved a 100-metre wide road. The alignment cannot be changed, farmers argued. George tried hard to convince them that it will be discussed with legal experts. Raghu N, a farmer from Anekal who will be losing 2.11 acres, said that according to the gazette notification the PRR will be 100 metres wide and it cant be altered now. The government is doing all this for money. Creating 25 metres developed zone on one side of the PRR is unjust. Government has sought a month's time for next meeting. We will wait for another two-three months. If their proposal is not convincing then we will move court. Siddegowda, who will lose 1.3 acres at Hessaraghatta, said government has come up with a new idea of commercial zone and service road. This is a trick to buy time to postpone the project, he opined. KG Layout list today Bangalore Development Minister K J George and BDA Commissioner Dr Rajkumar Khatri said the provisional list of allottees for 5,000 sites in Kempegowda Layout will be announced on Friday, instead of Monday. As the government and Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) are keen on going ahead with construction of the 6.9 km steel flyover, there are many voices against it. They opine that the flyover is not the solution as it will shift the problem from one point to another. Speaking to Deccan Herald, Ashish Verma, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering and Associate Faculty at Centre for infrastructure, Sustainable Transportation and Urban Planning, IISc, said any large scale infrastructure project like road widening, grade separators (flyovers/ underpasses) are generally short-term solutions and only help in shifting the point of congestion from one place to other rather than eliminating the congestion. They should be undertaken only after a good planning and after a clear understanding of its implications on overall present and future mobility within the city. This is important because implementing such projects involves huge financial burden at the cost of public money as well as very high social, environmental and economic impacts. Besides these, such projects also make substantial impact on overall aesthetics and living environment of the city. Often, those living close to such project locations (especially, flyovers and underpasses) are not the beneficiaries rather they are the recipients of all negative impacts like, increase in air and noise pollution, loss of accessibility and loss of aesthetics. Such project cannot be justified where space is a constraint, he added. G Ramesh, Associate Professor, Centre for Public Policy, IIMB, was keen to know the opinion of the advisory committee and policy makers on the design and need. Railway or Metro connectivity should have been provided at the time when the airport was constructed. Now with all these projects, they are preemiting Metro. The government's planning has been just catching up for the last 20 years and not for 20 years ahead. Instead of improving public transport, government is going the American way of putting all this on road, he said. Bangalore Political Action Committee Vice President T V Mohandas Pai said the flyover will only shift congestion from one place to another and will mess up the Central Business District (CBD) area. There is a need for networked traffic across the city through elevated corridors connecting the four sides. A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses transporting Afghan police cadets in Kabul killed 30 people and wounded 58 on Thursday, Afghanistans interior ministry said. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the bloodshed, condemned as a crime against humanity by President Ashraf Ghani. The convoy of buses transporting newly graduated police was targeted by two suicide attackers, a statement by the interior ministry said. The attack comes days after 14 Nepali security guards, who were heading to work at the Canadian embassy, were killed in a massive blast that left their minibus spattered with blood. PRESS STATEMENT - 30 JUNE 2016 ANGER AT ONGOING RIO TINTO INJUSTICE Bougainville President, John Momis, today expressed anger at Rio Tintos decision to transfer its 53.8 per cent share in Bougainville Copper Ltd (BCL). International mining giant, Rio earlier announced transfer if its BCL shares to an independent trustee, for distribution to the ABG (36.4 per cent), and the PNG Government (17.4 per cent). PNG is already 2nd largest BCL shareholder. So the share distribution would see the governments equal BCL shareholders - 36.4 per cent each. The remaining 27 per cent of shares are held by small shareholders. Rio Tinto has been reviewing its BCL shareholding for almost two years. The review resulted in Rio deciding to end its investment in BCL, which ran the giant copper and gold mine at Panguna from 1972 to 1989, under the 1967 Bougainville Copper Agreement (BCA). President Momis said Rio Tinto has made a unilateral decision. It failed to consult the Bougainville Government about distributing its shares. At meetings with senior Rio officials, in July 2015 and February 2016, I warned strongly against transfer of Rios shares to PNG. It Bougainvilleans cannot accept National Government control over the future of Panguna through either majority or equal shareholding in BCL. We are open to PNG remaining a BCL shareholder. That may assist us find responsible partners and financiers for possible future operations at Panguna. But we cannot accept Rio Tintos interference in seeking to give PNG equal control over Panguna. There is no possibility of progress on resolving the future of Panguna on that basis. Rio Tinto has shown arrogance and ignorance in ignoring my warning. Sitting in their comfortable London offices, they have interfered in Bougainvilles affairs by deciding PNG should have equal control of BCL. Bougainvilleans are united in rejecting what Rio Tinto seeks to thrust upon us. The President also expressed deep anger at Rio Tintos refusal to accept responsibility for the environmental and other damage done by the Panguna mine. He said In past meetings, I insisted that Rio accept responsibility for mining legacy issues. When I met their officials last night in Port Moresby, they flatly rejected any responsibility for their contribution to the damage done by the Panguna Mine. Rios officials gave me two reasons for not accepting responsibility for mine impacts. First, Rio operated under the PNG law of the day. Second, they were forced out of Panguna by the conflict. But the truth is Rio Tinto generated huge revenues from what we all now know was the terrible injustice of its Bougainville mining operations. The mine shut down in 1989 only because anger over that injustice generated demands for a renegotiated agreement. Its now clear the BCA was deeply unjust. It ignored environmental damage and social impacts. Only a tiny share of mine revenue was distributed to landowners and to the North Solomons Provincial Government. The gross injustice of the BCA has since been recognised by Rio. As a result it made major changes to its own policies, especially in relation to landowners. It accepted new standards of sustainable development as a founder of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM). Rio is now deeply hypocritical in its blatant disregard of the higher corporate responsibility standards it says it has adopted. It now seems Rio has no commitment to social responsibility or sustainable development principles. It talks those principles only when that helps its profits. But it throws them out when costs to its bottom line could be involved. Now Rio Tinto proposes to walk away from responsibility for the effects of the injustice of its highly profitable operations. Rio cannot rely on grossly unjust past laws to escape its contemporary responsibilities for what we now know was wrong. Corporate social responsibility means responsible companies accept that their responsibilities go beyond the legal requirements of the day. I am writing to the Managing Director of Rio Tinto asking him to reconsider not only the Rio decision about its shares, but also its refusal to deal with its Panguna legacy responsibilities. I am also writing to the International Council of Metals and Mining asking them to end Rio Tintos membership because of its failure to honour the ICMMs 10 Principles for Sustainable Development Performance. Finally, I am seeking the earliest possible meeting with Prime Minister ONeill to discuss how best to defuse the dangerous situation created by Rios decision on its shares in BCL. Ends Chief John L. Momis President, ARoB Ericsson has been selected as a Managed Services partner by Makedonski Telekom in Macedonia, a subsidiary of Deutsche Telekom Group. The Swedish vendor will assume responsibility for network operations, second-line operations, field operations and operation of passive networks, as well as infrastructure maintenance services for the fixed and mobile networks of Makedonski Telekom. Under this agreement, the employees of Makedonski Telekom who work in these areas will continue to carry out their tasks in Ericsson as of July 2016. Andreas Maierhofer, Chief Executive Officer of Makedonski Telekom, says: "The partnership with Ericsson will enable us to put even bigger focus on our customers. I'm sure that we will keep the epithet "best network" with a partner that is a world leader in this area and we will work more efficiently and more competitively in order to provide the best customer experience" Antonio Passarella, Head of Sales Albania, Macedonia, Montenegro & Serbia, Ericsson, says: "Makedonski Telekom employees' skills and experience will further enrich our capabilities and will eventually result in improved services for the end users." 060616 CONCERN OVER UNLICENSED DEALERS By Tom Kathoa The Cocoa Industry Board is very worried about the high number of illegal cocoa dealers operating in Bougainville. Regional Manager of the Industry Board, Mr Moses Burin says the industry has found that many cocoa dealers that are not registered. Mr Burin says Bougainville has the highest unregistered cocoa dealers and exporters. He is appealing to farmers with cocoa dryers and exporters to do the right thing by registering their businesses. He said cocoa inspectors have been posted to some areas throughout the region to check on illegal cocoa dealers. It is important that the quality of the product is maintained to attract high price for commodity. Ends TeamIndus Lab2Moon competition gives youngsters the chance to send an experient to the moon aboard its spacecraft TeamIndus, the only Indian team competing for the Google Lunar XPrize, has announced a competition that challenges youngsters to design and create an experiment that would be sent to the moon. Called Lab2Moon, the competition is open for those between age 14 and 25, and asks them to imagine, design and build a project. This project needs to be about the size of a can of soft drink, and needs to weigh less than 250gms. Teams can have up to three members, and in order to participate, they need to write a 300-word overview of the project and share drawings. They will also have to upload a 2-minute video in which they explain why their experiment needs to be sent to the moon. Those interested can register here, and the last date for registration is August 20. Rahul Narayan, TeamIndus Fleet Commander, stated, The TeamIndus mission is designed to be democratic, inclusive and driven by the people. Lab2Moon reflects that ethos. We hope that a generation of youngsters will be inspired to become change-makers and help create a better tomorrow. A jury consisted of scientists and technologists, including the former Chairman of ISRO, Dr. K. Kasturirangan, who will shortlist 20 teams by August 25. These teams will then have to develop a working prototype of their project by the end of 2016. The shortlisted teams will then be flown to Bengaluru in January 2017, where they will showcase their project to a jury. The winner will be declared on January 26. TeamIndus is planning to launch its spacecraft to the Moon next year. It also states that this will be the first opportunity for a non-government experiment to fly to the moon, since 1976. The Google Lunar XPrize is a $30 million competition that challenges engineers and entrepreneurs to develop low-cost techniques for robotic space exploration. To win the prize, a privately funded team needs to successfully place a robot on the surface of the moon. Further, the robot needs to travel at least 50 metres and transmit high-definition video and images back to earth. As mentioned before, TeamIndus is the only team from India competing for the price, and has already won $1 million for demonstrating its landing technology. Total number of dead now stands at 42 after horrific bomb and gun attack in Istanbul Turkish president Recip Tayyip Erdogan has blamed Islamic State for the attack on Ataturk airport in Istanbul on Tuesday night where 42 people were killed and hundreds injured. The gun and bomb attack was the latest in a string of terrorist attacks that have ripped through Turkey this year, and Erdogan has called on the international community to make it the final straw in the global struggle against terrorism. At least three people with guns and suicide vests targeted the arrivals and departures areas, where they sprayed travellers with bullets and then detonated their explosives in a rampage that lasted just a few minutes At least three people with guns and suicide vests targeted the arrivals and departures areas More details have emerged about the attacks at one of the worlds' busiest airports, as the Turkish people must wonder when these consistent attacks will stop. Sources from the police in the media in Turkey have said that the terrorists rented a flat in the Aksaray area of Istanbul and took a taxi at 8.45pm to Ataturk. The attackers were unable to enter the terminal initially according to Turkish officials. When the terrorists couldnt pass the regular security system, when they couldnt pass the scanners, police and security controls, they returned and took their weapons out of their suitcases and opened fire at random at the security check, said prime minister Binali Yildirim. The number killed so far includes 23 Turks, 6 Saudis, 2 Iraqis, an Iranian, a Chinese national, a Jordanian, a Tunisian, an Uzbek and a Ukrainian. CCTV footage of the attack appears to show one of the perpetrators being shot by security forces, before detonating a suicide bomb inside the terminal building. According to reports, one bomb exploded in the arrivals hall, one in the departures hall, and one at the exit where people were escaping the chaos. Beyond the human cost, the violence is likely to be a devastating blow for an economy heavily reliant on tourism, which is already suffering from falling visitor numbers after a string of attacks. 17 attacks have killed at least 300 people in terror-related incidents recently in Turkey, many of them in Istanbul. The global investment bank says "every outcome is possible" after Britain's decision to leave the EU Goldman Sachs has said that it still remains a possibility that their staff in the United Kingdom could be moved into continental Europe following Britain's decision to leave the European Union. Co-head of the investment banking division Richard Gnodde said that "every outcome is possible" when asked during a conference in London about the chances of its employees moving to European cities in the future. If passporting was totally removed, we would have to adjust our footprint and where people were located, Gnodde said. Passporting is an issue that weighs heavily on the thoughts of major banks in the EU single market, as it allows companies in one European country to provide services to other clients within the market. Passporting is an issue that weighs heavily on the thoughts of major banks If and when the UK leaves the European bloc, these rights could disappear and force banks to look elsewhere in Europe to continue their operations. The official line from Goldman Sachs is that there is no immediate change to how they're doing business in the UK, and they said that Gnodde was speaking about banking in more general terms. As we have already communicated to our employees, there is no immediate change to the way we conduct our business or where we conduct our business, a spokesperson for the group said in an emailed statement. Sarah Vine mistakenly sends message supposed to be for her husband to third party Michael Gove has expressed doubts about the candidacy of Boris Johnson to be Conservative leader and prime minister of the United Kingdom , as revealed by a leaked email that was mistakenly sent from his wife to a third party. Sarah Vine, Gove's wife and columnist for the Daily Mail, appears to suggest tactical decisions to the prominent Remain campaigner and current justice minister, leading to her crowning of the title "Lady Macbeth" on Twitter. I see Sarah Vine & Michael Gove have been busy moulding themselves into a pound shop Lord & Lady Macbeth... Rich Peppiatt (@richpeppiatt) June 29, 2016 Gove and former London mayor Johnson ran a successful campaign for the UK to leave its position as a member state of the European Union in last week's historic referendum, but now Gove's concerns have been made public. In the email, which was passed to Sky News by a member of the public, Vine says that it is "very important that we focus on the individual obstacles and thoroughly overcome them before moving to the next. "I really think Michael needs to have a Henry or a Beth (Mr Gove's media advisers, also copied into the email) with him for this morning's crucial meetings." "One simple message: You MUST have SPECIFIC assurances from Boris OTHERWISE you cannot guarantee your support. The details can be worked out later on, but without that you have no leverage." Vine also mentions the editor of the Daily Mail Paul Dacre, and media mogul Rupert Murdoch, and suggests that they have an important role to play in the leadership race. "Crucially, the membership will not have the necessary reassurance to back Boris, neither will (Daily Mail editor Paul) Dacre/(Rupert) Murdoch, who instinctively dislike Boris but trust your ability enough to support a Boris Gove ticket." "Do not concede any ground. Be your stubborn best. GOOD LUCK." Johnson is the bookmakers' favourite to become the next prime minister after David Cameron resigned following the referendum defeat last Thursday, but has not officially announced his candidacy yet. The race to succeed David Cameron as leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister was blown wide open on Thursday when Justice Secretary Michael Gove made a surprise late bid for the contest forcing the favourite Boris Johnson to stand down. Gove, a prominent member of the campaign to leave the European Union, was expected to support fellow Brexiteer Boris Johnson's campaign for the leadership, but in a stunning volte face, knifed his colleague in the back and made a run at the main job. Johnson, seen by many, not least himself, as the heir apparent to Cameron, announced his decision in a speech on Thursday after the outflanking by Gove torpedoing his leadership ambitions. Home Secretary Theresa May also threw her hat into the ring in what is now expected to be a very bloody contest, with bookmaker Ladbrokes making her the 4/7 favourite over Gove at 11/4 after Johnson's withdrawal. May ruled out a second referendum, telling supporters: "Brexit means Brexit". Johnson in recent days had made remarks that indicated a softening on his own position on leaving the European Union which alarmed those in the party who supported the Leave campaign and was rumoured to be a key reason behind Gove's move. Key Johnson backers Nick Boles and Dominic Raab also jumped ship to support Gove. Raab did so hours after writing an article in the Sun newspaper in praise of Johnson. Education Secretary Nicky Morgan abandoned thoughts of her own bid to get behind Gove, while Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt also declared he was not running after all, in order to join the Gove camp. I have come, reluctantly, to the conclusion that Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead. I have repeatedly said that I do not want to be prime minister, Gove said in a statement. "That has always been my view. But events since last Thursday have weighed heavily with me. I respect and admire all the candidates running for the leadership. In particular, I wanted to help build a team behind Boris Johnson so that a politician who argued for leaving the European Union could lead us to a better future. But I have come, reluctantly, to the conclusion that Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead. The move by Gove comes a day after a leaked email reportedly from his wife, newspaper columnist Sarah Vine, expressed doubts about Johnson's reliability and popularity with the party and media mogul Rupert Murdoch and the tabloid Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre. Vine writes a column for the Daily Mail and formerly wrote about beauty products for Murdoch's Times newspaper. ...the membership will not have the necessary reassurance to back Boris, neither will Dacre or Murdoch One simple message: you MUST have SPECIFIC from Boris OTHERWISE you cannot guarantee your support. The details can be worked out later on, but without that you have no leverage, the email, leaked to several media outlets, said. Crucially, the membership will not have the necessary reassurance to back Boris, neither will Dacre/Murdoch, who instinctively dislike Boris but trust your ability enough to support a Boris Gove ticket. Do not concede any ground. Be your stubborn best." May launched her bid on Thursday supported notably by the enthusiastic Leave campaigner and Gove's predecessor as Justice Secretary, Chris Grayling. She voted to remain in the EU, but at her campaign launch ruled out a second referendum on EU membership and early General Election. . "Brexit is Brexit," she told a news conference. May said Britain needed a "bold, new, positive vision for the future...a vision of a country that works not for a privileged few but for everyone, regardless of who they are and regardless of where theyre from." Other contenders are Work & Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb, former Cabinet minister Liam Fox and Energy and Climate change junior minister Andrea Leadsom. Nominations closed at midday. The contest was sparked by Prime Minister David Cameron's resignation after 52% of voters decided to leave the EU. Car manufacturers competing to be the first to create self-driving technology BMW is planning to announce an initiative together with technology firms Intel and Mobileye which aims to make the German car manufacturer the pioneer in self-driving technology, according to reports. Detection specialists Mobileye are said to have been developing technology that allows cars to have better reflexes without aid from drivers. A news conference has been called for Friday 1st July at BMW's technology centre in Munich, Germany, with official details scarce. The race to be the first manufacturer to produce a self-driving car is heating up significantly, with BMW seemingly moving up a gear in their own pursuit, as they combine with the world's leading chip maker and an expert in car software systems. At the beginning of June, BMW, the world's largest luxury carmaker by sales, revealed that it would release a new flagship model with autonomous driving ability as early as 2021. The terms of the deal are as of yet unknown, or indeed whether the partnership of Intel and Mobileye will affect in any way the latter's relationship with French-Italian chipmaker STMicroelectronics, which produces chips for their sensor systems. Snack food company Mondelez International has made an attempt to take over Hershey , according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. Shares in the US chocolate producer have surged by more than 21% to $117.79. On Thursday morning, Hershey had a market value of $21 billion, versus Mondelez's value of $69 billion. In 2002, Hershey attempted to look at the possible sale of the company, and it received interest from various parties, including Mondelez's predecessor company Kraft Foods. However, in the end the sale did not go through. According to The Wall Street Journal, Mondelez has pledged to protect jobs following any deal and to locate its global chocolate headquarters in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and rename the company Hershey. The report cited a person familiar with the matter. -- More to follow -- 060616 OUTSIDERS CONCERN By Tom Kathoa A number of Bougainvilleans have expressed fear and shock at the number of people from outside the region coming and operating business here. Some of them come in as employees of various organisations, but within a couple of months they enter into business activities that are not related to their work. And they are calling on the ABG government and other authorities to look into such activities by such people bearing in mind that the people of Bougainville will vote for their political future in 2019. They are also calling on the local landowners not to sell their land to outsiders but to consider the future of their grandchildren first. Ends Struggling Italian lender UniCredit named a former head of its investment bank to the post of chief executive, potentially opening the door to asset sales, according to multiple reports. The previous boss of Italys largest bank, Federico Ghizzoni, stepped down in May. In his place, overnight on Thursday Milan-based UniCredit chose Jean-Pierre Mustier as his successor. UniCredit had been left reeling by a stagnating Italian economy that had pushed its non-performing loans to approximately 38bn, versus a market capitalisation of 11.9bn. Its stock was trading at just 26% of the companys tangible book value, according to Bloomberg. Brussels had recently blocked an attempt by the government in Rome to create a so-called 'bad bank' to help clean-up its ailing financial system. Officials were said to be mulling injecting as much as 40.0bn into the countrys banks, either via directly injecting fresh capital or by pledging state guarantees. According to Reuters, UniCredit would look to sell its online bank Fineco, its Polish unit and asset manager Pioneer but its German arm HVB would be spared from the auction block, neither would a divestment of its Turkish unit be a priority. Another report indicated that a rights issue was a possibility. As of 14:48 BST shares in UniCredit were lower by 0.31% to 1.92. Markets in Asia lost some of their drive on Thursday, after a turnaround Tuesday and a winning Wednesday in the unstable wake of last weeks Brexit vote. Japans Nikkei 225 closed almost flat, adding 0.06% to 15,575.92, giving up early gains of almost 1%. The yen was last 0.04% stronger at JPY 102.79. Shares in Mitsubishi Heavy finished up 3.59% after Daiwa Securities raised its rating on the stock to outperform. The stock appears undervalued, said analyst Hirosuke Tai, adding he expects operating profit growth despite the recent and ongoing appreciation of the yen. Markets on the mainland were relatively muted, with the Shanghai Composite Index losing 0.07% to 2,929.61, and the Shenzhen Composite also more or less flat at 1,974.23. In South Korea, the Kospi finished up 0.72% to 1,970.35, while Hong Kongs Hang Seng Index added 1.75% in an afternoon surge to 20,794.37. Shares in Seouls Hyundai Motor were down 2.52% by the close, after Hyundai Heavy and Hyundai Samho Heavy sold shares in the carmaker to raise KRW 226.1bn. Hyundai Heavy shares were up 0.48%. Analysts were saying the post-Brexit recovery rally suggested the UKs political crisis was of diminishing importance to the global markets, although uncertainty over what shape the countrys exit from the EU might take was still looming large. [The] Brexit threat will only become real if UK actually goes through with the invocation of Article 50, and it appears that this will not be the case for the time being, said BK Asset Management managing director of foreign exchange strategy Boris Schlossberg. Although markets remain wary and cognizant of the existential risk of Brexit, as long the Article 50 is not invoked, further downside risk appears to be limited. Despite the rallies around the globe, investors were still clamouring for safe havens, with bond yields heading lower for another session. Oil prices dropped during Asian trading, with Brent crude last down 1.06% to $50.08 and West Texas Intermediate losing 1.07% to $49.35 per barrel. In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 was up 1.77% at 5,233.40, with the energy, financial and materials subindexes all surging by more than 1%. New Zealands S&P/NZX 50 added 1.4% to close at 6,897.52, and was now well above the levels it saw in the days immediately before the Brexit vote. The down under dollars were mixed, with the Aussie last 0.16% weaker against the greenback at AUD 1.3441 and the Kiwi 0.01% stronger at NZD 1.4060. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. Ohio's 6-week abortion ban was a fringe idea. Heres how it became law Ohio led a slow, determined push to steadily weaken and then nearly eliminate abortion rights. It's indicative of what has happened around the U.S. 070616 SEMOSO`S FACE By Tom Kathoa Deputy Speaker of the ABG House of Representatives, Hon Francisca Semoso has again put women high on the map by commending them for whatever they do in their respective roles even as house wives. The deputy speaker was addressing the official opening of Air Niugini`s new office complex in Buka Town yesterday afternoon. She heaped praised on the outgoing office Manageress who has now transferred to Lae, Morobe Province. Member Semoso says women make her proud when they are promoted elected into public office including politics or do something good for themselves and the country. Ends. 080616 COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT BILL BY Tom Kathoa It is proposed that elections for members of the second term government, the Community will be conducted one year after the ABG general elections. Members of community Governments will like any other elected governments will hold office for 5 years. Community Government minister, Hon Jacob Tookes said this when presenting the Government Bill to the House of Representatives at its meetings today. The bill further says that election for Chairman of Community Governent will be conducted towards the end of this year, while election for the two Urban Centres of Buka and Arawa will be done early next year 2017. Ends 080616 TWO REPS FROM EACH WARD ASSEMBLY BY Tom Kathoa The proposal to have the Chairman of the local level governments chosen by its members has not gone down well with the ABG Member for Rau Constituency, Hon Thomas Kereri. Speaking on the Community Government bill on the establishment of the community governments, with the chairman chosen from among members, Mr Kereri suggested that the chairman should be elected by the people of the local level government while the deputy chairman can be selected by Members. Under the new structure to replace the current council of elders ( COE ) the local level government would be made up of two members, one male and one female each from the ward assembly area. They will then elect their chairman and deputy chairman respectively an arrangement opposed by Member Thomas Kereri. Each Local Level Government would be assisted by a Village or Ward Recorder and two public servants an accounts clerk and an administration. Ends. by Rahim Rahimzadeh, Boxscore: Tehran, Iran - June 29, 2016 - The Serbian men's volleyball team, after being stranded at the Ataturk airport, is expected to arrive in Tehran on Thursday 30 June. The Serbian men's volleyball team, after being stranded at the Ataturk airport, is expected to arrive in Tehran on Thursday 30 June. Following the tragic terrorist attacks that occurred at Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport on the night of Tuesday, 28 June the national volleyball team of Serbia has faced some travel troubles enroute to Tehran. Laslo Lukac the head delegate of the Serbian team said, We do not know when we are flying to Tehran, but at the moment we should be patient." According to Iran's volleyball federation website, Italy and Argentina will open the third week on Friday in FIVB Volleyball World League 2016 with a Pool II - Group 1 matches in Tehran. The third week games will be played among teams of Italy, Serbia, Argentina and the host team of Iran. The Serbian team was originally expected to arrive in Tehran early morning on Tuesday 28th June. But bad weather caused delay of flight for 24 hours. So the team left BelgradE via Istanbul on Tuesday evening. The team arrived in Istanbul shortly after the terrorist attack. Upon arriving, the team stayed onboard the plane for a number of minutes, before being allowed to deplane. Several hours later, the team was transferred to Istanbul's Marriot hotel. The final week of preliminary round games of the World League it will start on Friday 1 July in Tehran and will continue three days. On most days, Dale County Sheriffs deputy Josh Harper dresses in his uniform and prepares for whatever encounters he might have while patrolling the county. On some other days, he wears a different uniform in service to his country. Harper, a specialist with the Alabama National Guard 186th Engineer Company in Dothan, was among several local guardsmen who recently returned from duty this month in Romania at the Cincu Training Range. Some others are still serving in Romania. Alabama National Guard Public Affairs Officer, LTC Shannon Hancock, released an article by Staff Sgt. Christopher Davis on Wednesday that stated the mission was an ongoing effort of Resolute Castle 16, which has been a partnership between the Guard and the Romanian Land Forces since 1993. The partnership utilizes guardsmens engineering experience to improve infrastructure at the Romanian training center for use by multinational forces who conduct various exercises there. Davis stated the 186th had the specific task of widening and extending a five-kilometer range road they first helped to construct last year, as well as improving the culvert and drainage systems along the route over a ridgeline, which connected two other major range roads. The Romanian project was the 186ths first overseas deployment since 2007, when the unit deployed to Kuwait and Iraq and worked more than 2,200 route clearance patrols, reducing the number of IEDs by 93 percent. Alabama National Guard Sgt. Ronnie Anderson said the Dothan unit is the guards only engineer company in south Alabama. Its always different going to another country and seeing the different lifestyles, or serving a different mission, said Anderson, who has also deployed to the Dominican Republic and Kuwait with the guard. The Romanians taught us and we taught them. It was rewarding seeing the young soldiers do their job with such energy and motivation to serve. Anderson, who is also a Dothan Police Department patrol officer, said he joined the Guard 18 years ago while he was still in high school. He said the best part of his experience has been the chance to gain knowledge he can use both in the military and as a civilian. It can take you further than you can imagine, he said. There have been changes over the years, but knowing Im doing something for my country and for my family means something. You have to ask yourself when you see third-world countries if that is how you want to see America, or do you want to do something to help. Harper, who has a farming background, said he joined the Guard three years ago because he wanted to serve his country. A lot of people join the guard to go through school, and thats fine, but I joined because I wanted to make a difference, he said. Harper said he enjoyed the opportunity on the recent deployment to interact with Britons, Romanians and other soldiers who were intrigued by the 186ths American equipment. Our equipment is in the 2015-2016 range and theyre still operating on some equipment from the 1980s, so theirs was a little slower but they got the chance to train on some of ours, he said. It was humbling to work with them and to know that weve made things better. It can be stressful in anything you do to want to make the world better, but you do the best you can, and learn everything you can. The Dothan unit drills out of the Third Avenue National Guard Armory in Dothan. The unit was established in October 1955 as the 258th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion, and was broken up into engineer battalions and engineer companies in 1978. The unit serves within the 877th Engineer Battalion, which is headquartered about five hours away from Dothan in Haleyville, between Birmingham and Huntsville. This article was updated to reflected that some of the 186th continues to serve in Romania. Sunshine Publishing announces the release of Andy Piasciks novel In Motion Sunshine Publishing: NEW YORK CITY - June 29, 2016 - Sunshine Publishing announces the release of Andy Piasciks novel Sunshine Publishing announces the release of Andy Piasciks novel In Motion. Summer 1976. A city deluged by plant closures and runaway unemployment; the despair of the young and the proliferation of hard drugs; police brutality and an arson wave that is burning people out of their homes. Unfolding during the countrys over-the-top celebration of the Bicentennial, this is the time, place and zeitgeist of In Motion. In Motion, first and foremost, is a story of solidarity: the solidarity of two sisters, the solidarity of the sisters and their mother, the solidarity of the multi-racial residents of a city under siege. Most of all, In Motion is the story of the solidarity of Jackie and Jack, two passionate lovers on the cusp of adulthood seeking to live authentically. About the Author Andy Piascik was born and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut where he still has deep ties. An award-winning author, he writes regularly for many publications and websites. Andy lives in Brooklyn and can be reached at [email protected] . To order, please visit www.sunshinepublishing.org Inquiries can be sent to: [email protected] , or by mail to: Sunshine Publishing 610 Fifth Avenue, #2181 New York, NY 10185 post comments A man who was involved in the theft of 1,700 worth of beer kegs from outside a pub and restaurant in Blackrock, was told at Dundalk District Court last week that he is facing 200 hours community service or a 10 month sentence. Martin McDonagh (25) with an address at College Height's Dundalk admitted stealing nine kegs on October 19th last, which had been delivered earlier to the Clermont Arms. The court heard a Transit van pulled up outside the premises and the defendant - who had 14 previous convictions, was identified on CCTV as being one of two men who loaded the kegs into it. The defence solicitor said the theft was opportunistic and was not planned. She said the others involved were never charged and her client was eager to pay compensation. Judge Flann Brennan adjourned the case to September 28th for a community service report and said "full compensation will have to be paid on that date or else he can forget it". A lot of my friends have been going in and out of Japan. I must say I am very much envious of their travel photos. I love seeing the modern, yet functional, sometimes minimalist aesthics of the places and items they capture with their cameras, How I wish one day to see the land of the rising sun. While that travel bucket list is waiting to be crossed-out , I am settling for the amazing Japanese things coming to town. Recently, at the launch of Ace Bags Philippines, I witness a performance of a Japanese three arts Mittsu No Geitjutsu. The three arts started off with knaesthic calligraphy, a demonstration of Japanese caligraph combined with dance. It was follwed by a thrilling yet graceful handstand acrobitics and ended with the spellbinding water dance. Mr. Noguchii Yuichiro explained the Mittsu No Getsu we saw represents the latest luggage collections by Ace. which is the Rockpaint, Palisades and Ripple. Witnessing the beauty of movement and fluidity in its execution, is the inspiration beind the Ace. . Rockpaint Palisades Ripple Rockpaint, Ripple and Palisades feature classic , elegant lines with technological iinovations that ensures the security of the bags contents and the users comfort. Theres TSA-acceptd 3-combination lock of each luggage. The different collections also have lightweight but extremely durable impact resistant material.Ace. is distributed by Primer Group of Companies in the Philippines. To know more about the brand follow them Facebook look for ace.Philippines. Stay gorgeous everyone! US$ 110 million to one of Turkeys largest lenders In response to growing demand, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing US$ 110 million in new funds to Turkish lender Akbank to finance private companies investing in renewable energy and resource efficiency projects in Turkey. It is part of the EBRD strategy to help Turkey meet growing demand for electricity and diversify away from expensive imported fuel, while addressing climate change. EBRD funds are extended through an investment in investment grade rated senior US dollar-denominated notes issued under Akbanks Diversified Payment Rights (DPR) programme, an established market instrument used by Turkish banks to raise long-term funding in the capital markets. The financing supported by the Turkish Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and a 1.9 million grant from the European Union will benefit renewable energy and resource efficiency projects in Turkey including solar, hydropower, wind, geothermal, waste-to-energy and energy efficiency as well as water saving and waste minimisation projects. The investment comes under the EBRDs recently expanded Mid-size Sustainable Energy Financing Facility (MidSEFF) now totalling 1.5 billion. So far 47 projects have been financed through seven Turkish banks, helping to build over 800 MW of additional renewable energy capacity. The European Union is supporting the programme with a combined 6.8 million in grant funding which enables the EBRD to provide expert advice to both partner banks and their clients. Akbank one of the largest lenders in Turkey, publicly traded and with large market capitalisation has a strong track record of on-lending MidSEFF funds. Last year it received US$ 110 million in financing in addition to US$ 100 million in 2011. So far, Akbank has successfully allocated these funds to industrial energy efficiency measures, as well as hydropower, wind and waste-to-energy projects. Akbanks Executive Vice President of Treasury, Kerim Rota, said that Akbank is glad to partner yet again with the EBRD: Akbank continues to be a pioneering force in the Turkish banking sector in providing fresh funding to the private sector for renewable energy and resource efficiency projects in our country. We firmly believe that our efforts will also help Turkey meet its growing energy demand with a positive spillover for the financing of the countrys current account deficit, as renewable energy generation will diminish dependency on imported fuels while also addressing climate change. Going forward, Akbank will continue supporting Turkeys goal of increasing the share of renewable energy sources in total production as well as diversifying the countrys energy sources. Noel Edison, Director of Financial Institutions at the EBRD, said: We are impressed with the response to the previous two rounds of financing we offered to Akbank under our MidSEFF programme. The lender has financed eight projects helping create 73 MW in additional renewable capacity. The bank has a strong pipeline for further successful renewable energy and resource efficiency investments by Turkish corporates. Investing in sustainable energy and resource efficiency is a strategic priority for the EBRD in Turkey. Almost half of the Bank's total portfolio in Turkey is in sustainable energy and since 2009 the EBRD has invested over 3 billion in more than 75 such projects, including two of the countrys largest wind farms Bares and Rotor and the largest geothermal power plant in Turkey (and second largest in Europe), Efeler. The Bank is also working closely with the Turkish Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources and has helped develop the countrys first National Renewable Energy Action Plan to attract more investment in renewable energy projects. It has also supported the preparation of a National Energy Efficiency Action Plan, which is expected to include a wide range of sector-based resource efficiency measures aimed at achieving Turkeys 2023 energy efficiency targets. The EBRD started investing in Turkey in 2009 and currently operates from offices in Istanbul, Ankara and Gaziantep. To date, it has invested over 7 billion in the country through more than 180 projects in infrastructure, energy, agribusiness, industry and finance. It has also mobilised about 17 billion for these ventures from other sources of financing. In 2015, Turkey was the top destination for EBRD financing, with 1.9 billion invested that year alone. Hillary Clinton, the Democratic Partys presumptive presidential candidate, this week unveiled a technology and innovation agenda that calls for a broader commitment to improving computer science and STEM education, expansion of broadband Internet to the entire United States, and deployment of 5G wireless networks. Clintons plan calls for advancing high-tech training in American schools through collaboration with nonprofits and the private sector to train up to 50,000 computer science teachers in the next decade. It would double the investment in federal training grants to provide computer science education for students. It would provide access to capital for entrepreneurs, and institute measures to promote diversification of the tech workforce. Clinton called for changes to the immigration system to remove barriers to high-skilled workers and entrepreneurs who want to come to the U.S., where technology companies are in dire need of talented engineers and other staff. The plan would create start-up visas for entrepreneurs, and attach green cards to STEM masters and PhDs from accredited colleges and universities. Wider Access Clinton said the digital divide, which has left low income and rural communities without affordable high-speed Internet, should be closed by 2020, and that 5G wireless should be made available to support the Internet of Things, smart factories, autonomous vehicles and other innovative technologies. She also came out in support of Net neutrality, and called for greater competition, backed up by enforcement from government agencies. She said states and localities should reduce barriers to entry. Clintons technology agenda, including her support for STEM education and her plans to expand the new technology workforce, maintain a free and open Internet, and increase emphasis on cybersecurity training, drew praise from Todd Thibodeaux, CEO of the Computing Technology Industry Association. CTIA, which includes more than 2,000 member companies in the information security sector, is based in Washington. The need for high-speed, reliable digital infrastructure is critical to the expansion of innovation and commerce, Thibodeaux added. Strong encryption, favorable trade deals to allow U.S. companies to remain competitive, and high-skilled immigration reform must be part of the conversation, he said. CompTIA is one of more than a dozen technology associations that released a technology sector presidential platform in May. Another is the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, which likewise applauded the Clinton plan, noting its emphasis on cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, diversifying the STEM pipeline and increasing fundamental research funding. Clintons proposal conveys a vested interest in the digital economy and understands the importance of open access to information and a fast Internet, as well as how the issues bolster the growth of our economy and quality of life for consumers and businesses in the Bay area, said Peter Luroe-Munoz, the groups vice president of technology and innovation policy. Staying on Course The Clinton proposals appear to be an extension of existing federal policies, said Charles King, principal analyst at Pund-IT. Its easy to see why some have suggested that Clintons technology-related policies would qualify as an extension of Barack Obamas strategy, he told the E-Commerce Times. Her support for Net neutrality is particularly clear in that respect, and also sets her apart from the presumptive GOP candidate, Donald Trump, who steadfastly opposes it. Clintons likely appointments of pro Net neutrality commissioners to the FCC and other agencies could have a lasting impact even if she were to serve only one term, King suggested. The goal of expanding high-speed broadband to the entire population is praiseworthy, according to broadband technology analyst Craig Settles, but without a commitment to increase the speed and lower the cost, the impact would be limited. If she does not address the issue of lack of competition, its hard to see the U.S. getting an increase in coverage speeds, let alone affordability, he told the E-Commerce Times. The U.S. is woefully unprepared for expanding broadband access, Settles said, because building the infrastructure required to make those services available, including the installation of poles, laying fiber-optic cables, etc., would require thousands of trained workers. Most politicians and most technology executives, for that matter lack a full understanding of these issues, technology analyst Jeff Kagan told the E-Commerce Times. They decide which way will give the government the kind of power it needs, without much concern for marketplace realities. 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The initiative is called InnovatEC and it was introduced to the public at a gathering in the Gilchrist Complex on the campus of ECSU June 21. Special assistant to Chancellor Thomas Conway, Russ Haddad, facilitated a meeting that brought members of the northeast North Carolina community together to discuss the future of the proposed program, and an entrepreneur lab. This is to do what universities do, said Conway in an opening statement to a crowd of 50 community leaders. Get people together and talk about the thought process. The idea behind InnovatEC, explained Haddad, is to begin a discussion on how to best serve people in the community, giving them a leg up in an effort to build new businesses and ultimately spur regional economic growth. The method, explained Haddad, is not a top-down approach, telling future entrepreneurs what to do, but rather asking them what they believe is needed in their communities and assisting them in reaching their goals. One component in assisting future entrepreneurs is working with Duke University graduate student, Jonathan Meyer. Meyer has been conducting a study in the region as a part of his thesis work as he earns his Masters in Public Policy from Dukes prestigious Sanford School of Public Policy. Making a presentation via Skype to the crowd, Meyer explained that his six months of research in the region will help the initiative address several key points: 1) Why entrepreneurs and innovators important; 2) What assets exist; 3) And how to stimulate the regional economy. Rural North Carolina communities have moved from a manufacturing economy to a service economy. And those communities are looking for new approaches to spur economic growth, explained Meyer. The idea of InnovatEC is to cultivate a talent pipeline. We come together to connect with business start-ups, said Meyer. As InnovatEC moves forward, Haddad says he hopes community leaders will continue to come together to facilitate an environment where all members of the region can participate in mapping their economic future. This is about human capacity, said Haddad. What do people want to do? InnovatEC member Cathy Davidson of the Albemarle Commission said the group plans to have a feasibility study completed by Dec. 16. The next InnovatEC meeting is scheduled for August, the exact date to be announced. It really is an exciting time for our region, said Davidson. Theres a growing push nationwide for schools to increase their focus on the role that childrens emotions, relationships, and out-of-school experiences play in shaping their success. The writer Paul Tough has put himself in the thick of that discussion for a decade, unpacking research, visiting schools that were early leaders in the social-emotional learning movement , and studying firsthand the debates around the development and measurement of noncognitive skills in the classroom. His first full-length book on the subject was How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character, published in 2012, which stressed the importance of perseverance, grit, and curiosity in the outcomes of children from low-income backgrounds. His latest book, Helping Children Succeed: What Works and Why (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016) delves further into how children who grow up in adversity are hindered from developing the character skills that will help them thrive in school. Tough, a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine and a regular contributor to the radio program This American Life, has written extensively about education, parenting, and poverty . Helping Children Succeed draws on a number of researchers, including Carol Dweck, professor of psychology at Stanford University; and Clancy Blair, professor of cognitive psychology at New York University; and recent studies to suggest how communities can make changes to spark noncognitive growth and improve student outcomes. The findings are especially important, Tough says, given that low-income children now make up more than half of public school students . The increased attention on social-emotional learning in education has been a source of debate, particularly as some schools begin to implement programs to develop and measure noncognitive traits for report cards, school accountability, and teacher evaluation. In Helping Children Succeed, Tough suggests that the best way to cultivate noncognitive skills is not by teaching them outright or measuring them as schools would academic skills; instead, educators should think of the skills as mindsets influenced by the environment. The key, Tough advocates, is to make environmental changes in students lives by adjusting the behaviors of the adults around them. Programs that provide support for parents of young children not yet in school and classrooms where these skills can flourish require the work of individuals across communities and can be independent of large-scale policy changes, says Tough. Commentary Associate Kate Stoltzfus recently spoke to Tough by phone about some of the science behind student success and how educators, parents, and policymakers can make a difference in the character of their studentsboth in and outside of the classroom. EW: Who have been some of the biggest influences on your work? TOUGH: One is neuroscientistsspecifically a subset known as neuroendocrinologists. These are people who study our stress response system and how this network in us functions as this sort of thermostat in early childhood that gets clues from the environment as to what life is going to be like and then makes adaptations accordingly. In recent years, these scientists have discovered that the kind of adaptations that growing up in a stressful environment produces might [help children] in the short term in those environments but [are not helpful] when it comes to school. What these scientists have donepeople like Clancy Blair, Philip Fisher, Mary Dozieris give us a clear sense of what those kids are bringing to school and how poorly so many of our school systems react to dealing with kids who come in with that kind of background. The other is in the realm of motivation and mindset. These people tend to be psychologistsCamille Farrington, David S. Yeager, Carol Dweckwho are looking at the reality of how adversity affects kids in school as a question of what kind of environments and what kind of messages can we provide in the classroom. They are going beyond the traditional behaviorist paradigm of trying to figure out the right mix of punishments and rewards to motivate kids, and, instead, looking at intrinsic motivation and what kind of environmental forces tend to make kids feel motivated, not just for an immediate reward but for a deeper sense of accomplishment. EW: Though the cultivation of these character strengths are crucial, you make the argument that we should not test or teach these qualities the way we would cognitive skills. Instead, the key to the development of these qualities is to change childrens environments, which takes the responsibility off students to learn these skills and focuses on the attitudes and behaviors of the educators, parents, and other mentors who create these learning spaces. Say more about why we shouldnt measure these qualities. TOUGH: Its not that I think we shouldnt measure them; its that I think we dont know how to measure them. But part of what Im saying in this book is that thats OK. We should just accept that these qualities in children are not measureable skills like math and reading skills are. They arent skills the way we think of academic skills, something that you learn and dont forget. They are much more about psychological frames of mind that are very much dependent on where kids are. Thats why I think focusing too hard on trying to measure and assess these skills isnt a very productive direction to go, and its a place where we are putting a lot of energy right now that could be better spent. Trying to figure out whether those students have that much grit or that much self-control is not important. Whats important is the kinds of behaviors that come out of having these mindsets or traits, and those are the things we actually care about as educatorshow motivated, how connected, how engaged our students are. EW: How we can begin to change environments both in and outside of school? TOUGH: The best lever that we have to change childrens environments when theyre young is their parents or caregivers. I write about a few interventions that work directly with parents, especially parents living in poverty, [and the need to] support them in terms of the kind of emotional connections or attachment that they have with their children. These sorts of interventions, which are on the level of how you are holding and singing and talking with your baby, are the kind of intimate interactions that go on between parents and young children. When parents get the right supports and encouragements in those early years, it changes things for their children in terms of their behavior, academic skills, and neurobiologyyou see the effects in their cortisol levels, even though the intervention is with the parents and not with the children. Thats one set of interventions that makes a difference in how children do on the first day of kindergarten and beyond. Childhood is a continuumthat's how children and families experience itand this continuum really matters, especially for kids who are growing up in poverty." There are some school models that look at what growing up in poverty or other forms of adversity do to children and try to come up with interventions that help them. One has to do with relationships: creating situations inside schools where students feel a real sense of belonging and connection and relatedness. The other toolbox has to do with work and challenge. One of the things that the researchers of motivation have found is that work is actually deeply motivating for students. When theyre doing work that feels to them meaningful and challenging and rigorous, theyre actually more motivated to work. So the schools that I think are doing the best job of intervening are finding ways to structure challenges for students that are achievable but really push themand push them not just academically but socially as well. EW: You also put an emphasis on early childhood as a crucial time to lay the foundation that will lead to these skills, and you say that the home environment is vastly important even before children enter school. For students who grow up in low-income homes with stressful environments, it is much more complicatedand some might argue, intrusiveto change home life in the same way schools can alter classroom settings. Could you unpack this? See Also For more perspectives from prominent education scholars, leaders, and practitioners, please visit: TOUGH: There is absolutely a sense that Americans haveand for good reasonthat the home and the family is something outside the public sphere. The flaw in the thinking that has kept us from using these strategies that have been demonstrated scientifically to work so well is that they have to be intrusive. Anytime that Ive been to any of these programs that offer support and encouragement and community to low-income parents, there is no resistance at all. When I first started reporting on these interventions, I wasnt a parent myself, so I was more prone to the idea that maybe its not right to tell parents how to parent. Then I had my own children and realized that parents are desperate for help. All I wanted was someone to talk to and make me feel like I was doing a not-terrible job. Thats especially true for parents who are isolated, stressed out, young, or who have all the additional stresses and pressures that come from growing up in poverty or in a low-income community. I think the real obstacle is our commitment as a society to provide enough of these kinds of programs. EW: You write in the book that in 2013, 51 percent of public school students qualified as low-income according to the National Center for Education Statisticsthe highest rate, according to the Southern Education Foundation, since 1989. It is more crucial than ever, you say, that public schools work to improve the futures of the growing number of students who face adversity. What are the most important solutions you offer at both the policy and classroom levels that schools should pay attention to? TOUGH: Part of the answer at the policy level is for us to think differently about the continuum of childhood. There is this disconnect between what happens in early childhood and what happens beginning on the first day of kindergarten. That disconnect starts at the federal policy level, where early childhood is under the purview of the Department of Health and Human Services and K-12 is under the Department of Education, and replicates itself at the state and county level and in individual communities. The pre-K and childcare teachers are not talking to the kindergarten teachers. Childhood is a continuumthats how children and families experience itand this continuum really matters, especially for kids who are growing up in poverty, especially now as we understand in science how important those early years are. If youre running a school system and you want the children in your community to succeed in your school system, one of the best tools you have to make that happen is to support and help parents and families of young children. One of the things thats really striking to me in the research is how much small changes in the atmosphere of the classroom, in the way that we discipline and the way that teachers talk to their students, can make a big difference when youre emphasizing classroom climate, a sense of connection and belonging. EW: Grit"the notion, at times controversial, that student perseverance is a predictor of successhas gained national attention through the work of researchers like psychologist Angela Duckworth at the University of Pennsylvania . Could you talk about how your work differs from hers and where it aligns? TOUGH: The place where our work aligns is that were both concerned about how to help more children succeed, and were both persuaded that the psychological dimension of being a student is a big part of why some kids arent succeeding and where we might find the tools to help students succeed more. I think she would say there needs to be a balance between thinking about how we use the environment as a tool to shape kids psychology and more academic, pedagogical techniques. She thinks more than I do that there are particular ways to teach skills like grit: lessons and exercises you can do in the classroom that can improve students grit and other noncognitive skills. I also think those things have some validity, but Im more convinced than I was a few years ago that thats not the most productive direction for us. The most productive direction to try to change students psychology is to think about what educators and policymakers can do to shape the environment that surrounds kids. The interview has been edited for length and clarity. Toni Braxton might be dating record executive Birdman, but her sisters still want to help her out with her love life in a new episode of WeTVs Braxton Family Values. The ladies are sitting down enjoying a meal when Braxton points out to her sisters, You never said what kind of chick I am. What kind of chick am I? Thats when they hit her with the hard truth that they believe she is a prude. Youre so full of inhibitions. Let go. You know what? You would be really pretty if you let your hair down, Trina revealed. Tamar Braxton chimed in and tried to clarify that Trina just wants Toni to be promiscuous. No not a freak, Trina added. Stop being so scary; enjoy your life. Thats when Toni confessed she thought she was daring enough; especially with one of her latest ventures. I took swimming lessons, she said. But her sisters couldnt help but poke fun that Toni considers that adventurous. Slow down girl, Tamar joked. But Toni revealed she is traveling and has even been on a few dates lately. Yall dont know I go on dates but I go on dates The sisters definitely wanted to hear more about Tonis secret rendezvous. Tamar asked how revealing her clothing is while Traci said, Tonis always clothed and always looking like shes a pilgrim Check out the hilarious clip below. Braxton Family Values airs Thursdays at 9/8c on WeTV. Meanwhile, Toni and Birdman seemed to confirm dating rumors when they attended the BET Awards together Sunday. Keep up with Enstars for more. Samsung has announced some good news for its fans on Thursday, especially those who hate getting phones that are cluttered with apps from U.S. carriers. According to Samsung, it would start offering unlocked versions of its two flagship devices, the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, to U.S. customers through Samsung's online store, Amazon, Best buy, eBay Sam's Club and Target. In a lot of ways, unlocked smartphones are better than their counterparts that are released from U.S. carriers. For one, unlocked phones do not come with a 2-year contract. Plus, they come with a default set of apps that do not include those annoying bloatware that carriers usually place on mobile devices. Apart from these advantages, unlocked phones also work regardless of what carrier users are under. Thus, the unlocked Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge is compatible with all U.S. carriers, including CDMA firms such as Verizon and Sprint. However, unlocked devices are also usually very expensive. True to form, the unlocked versions of the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge also require some deep pockets, with the S7 costing $670 and the S7 Edge being sold for $100 more, at $770. Samsung assured its fans that the unlocked phones would feature the exact same specs as their locked counterparts. Just like the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge devices that are released through U.S. carriers, the unlocked phones feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, 4GB of RAM and advanced 12MP cameras. The units are also water resistant, and are equipped with quick charge technology and wireless charging. Also, the devices would fully support Samsung Pay and come equipped with full warranties from Samsung. The Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge have garnered much praise since the devices were released earlier this year. Gaining almost universal acclaim from critics and users worldwide, the devices are widely considered the best Android smartphones in the market today. In the last days of 1857, the British Commissioner of Oudh sent the following letter to his superiors in Fort William, Calcutta: With reference to the Chief Commrs letter to his Lordship the Governor General dated 14th September in which he stated that he had authorised the sum of 50,000 to be expended in an attempt to raise the Hindoo population of Bareilly against the Muhomedans. While I am directed to submit the accompanying extract of a letter from Capt. Gowan dated the 14th Ultimo from which his Lordship in Council will perceive that the attempt was quite unsuccessful and has been abandoned ... Younited Italia, Nicola Manzari e il nuovo Coo, Luca Faccini e Head of Growth e Domenico Petraroli e General Counsel Washington, DC-- A new study reveals that the average cost to train a Teaching Health Center resident is estimated to be $157,602 per year. The report, "The Cost of Residency Training in Teaching Health Centers", published by the New England Journal of Medicine comes as current Teaching Health Centers embark on what could be their last year in existence starting July 1, 2016. The Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program was created in 2010, as a 5 year initiative, to increase the number of primary care residents and dentists trained in community-based settings. The program was extended for an additional 2 years in 2015 but is currently set to expire in September 2017. Although the program was extended, it was funded at almost a 40% reduction with programs operating at $95,000 per resident, in place of the previous amount of $150,000. This lower payment level has left many programs struggling to find additional funding and teetering on the brink of closure. Many programs that are withstanding the loss have agreed they cannot continue with the reduced funding level in perpetuity; but are hopeful that this report illustrates the true cost of producing the next generation of primary care physicians. The THCGME program to date has garnered bi-partisan support for its financial transparency and has been highly successfully in recruiting and retaining primary care physicians where they are needed most. This costing study report has been widely anticipated as it depicts an estimate of costs on the ever-elusive graduate medical education (GME) training costs. "We are in the midst of a primary care crisis," said Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT). "At a time when millions of Americans lack access to health care, we must protect and expand Teaching Health Center programs that train much-needed primary care providers." Other Congressional members agreed and vowed their support for Teaching Health Center programs. "As someone who grew up in a rural community, I know all too well their unique needs, particularly when it comes to accessing quality health care," said Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA). "Teaching Health Centers provide solutions to rural doctor shortages that help diversify the supply of available training sites and ensure that the federal investment in graduate medical education is as varied as the people who rely on it. I am proud to continue to support this vital program and work on ensuring permanency of the program is a reality in the future." "It's very clear that in communities across the country, including in my home state of Washington, the shortage of primary care doctors is a challenge for too many families," said Senator Patty Murray (D-WA). "I believe strongly that patients and families should be able to get the care they need when and where they need it. Teaching Health Centers are critical to reaching this goal. I look forward to working with all of my colleagues on sustainable funding to support and expand this important program for families in Washington state and nationwide." "By training family physicians in community-based settings, Teaching Health Centers have helped address the challenge of physician shortage in rural and underserved areas," said Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-CA). "We already know the money we are investing today in this program has had a considerable impact on the health on hundreds of thousands of people across the country, both in terms of expanding access to care and reducing unnecessary emergency room visits. The report released earlier this week, highlighting the cost of residency training, will now help us ensure this critical funding is spent in the most efficient and effective way possible." ### The report, "The Cost of Residency Training in Teaching Health Centers," was authored by Marsha Regenstein, PHD, Kiki Nocella, PHD, MHA and a team at the Department of Health Policy and Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University. The American Association of Teaching Health Centers (AATHC) was established in 2013 to serve as the coordinating center for the Teaching Health Center movement. The AATHC supports and advances THC's through networking, communications and educating the medical profession and the public. AATHC also engages in advocacy efforts to extend current THC funding and to establish a dedicated source for community-based primary care GME funding. For more information, visit http://www.aathc.org. PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] -- Researchers have made two new scientific points with a set of experiments in which they induced people to perceive colors that weren't really there -- one concerning how the brain works and the other concerning how to work the brain. Working with colleagues in Japan, the scientists at Brown University used a novel technique to surreptitiously train a small group of volunteers to associate vertical stripes with the color red and -- to a lesser extent as a consequence -- horizontal stripes with the color green. The first point made by the researchers was that the association was induced by specifically targeting the early visual areas of the brain. Those "V1" and "V2" areas are the first parts of the cortex to process basic visual information coming from the eyes, but scientists had not previously seen associative learning occurring there. "This is the first clear study that shows that V1 and V2 are capable of creating associative learning," said Takeo Watanabe, the Fred M. Seed Professor of Cognitive and Linguistic Sciences at Brown and co-corresponding author of the paper in the journal Current Biology. The second point is that the association was learned strongly enough that subjects came to perceive the background colors paired with vertical bars as red even when the background was gray or sometimes a bit greenish. That learned misperception was evident in tests as much as five months later. The demonstration raises the possibility that the training method could be used to induce other enduring associations in the brain, Watanabe said. To assign association Here is how Watanabe's team induced the association: With volunteers in the magnetic resonance imaging scanner, the first step was to measure patterns of activity in V1 and V2 when they saw different combinations of colored backgrounds (red, green and gray) behind two different stripe orientations (vertical and horizontal). The researchers used that data to encode a "classifier" that could distinguish between red and green to recognize the brain activity the volunteers induced in those areas in future experiments. Then the experimenters engaged in a subterfuge even greater than a little mind reading. With the intent of training 12 of their 18 volunteers to associate red with vertical stripes, they showed them gray backgrounded vertical stripes embedded within a circle and then a small plain white disk. They asked the volunteers to imagine ways of making the disk larger. The volunteers were offered a reward based on the size of the disk they could produce. Over three days of such training, volunteers thought of a variety of ways they might use their brains to enlarge the disk, but really the disk only got larger when the classifier saw signs they were thinking of red (for whatever coincidental reason). In other words, the 12 volunteers were really being trained such that after seeing vertical stripes they would induce activity patterns in V1 and V2 similar to the activity that had occurred when they actually saw red. "Participants were not aware of the purpose of the experiment or what kind of activation they learned to induce," Watanabe said. After the 12 volunteers had been trained and the six others were left untrained, the researchers then measured their visual perceptions. Both groups of volunteers were shown circles with central patterns of vertical, horizontal or diagonal stripes. Each of those patterns had backgrounds colored somewhere along a continuum of eight settings ranging from obviously to faintly green to gray to faintly to obviously red. The key question was whether the trained and untrained subjects would exhibit any differences in the colors they perceived in the backgrounds behind the vertical stripes. Sure enough, trained subjects were significantly more likely than untrained ones to perceive the gray background of vertical stripes -- and even the faintly green background -- as red. Meanwhile, trained subjects were more likely to associate backgrounds behind horizontal stripes as greener than untrained subjects. Neither group showed any incorrect color bias in judging the backgrounds behind the diagonal stripes. In testing up to five months later, however, trained subjects still showed significant associations for vertical gratings. Applications of associations Associative learning and memory -- "this goes with that" -- is pervasive in the brain, but it was a novel finding of basic brain science to show that it can occur in early visual areas, Watanabe said. In a more applied vein, Watanabe said he is eager to find out if scientists can use the study's technique of training subjects with (unwitting) MRI-based feedback to create associations in other parts of the brain for educational or therapeutic reasons. "Our brain functions are mostly based on associative processing, so association is extremely important," Watanabe said. "Now we know that this technology can be applied to induce associative learning." Through the technique, which Watanabe calls A-DecNef, perhaps people can learn even when they don't know what they are learning, or that they are learning at all. ### The paper's lead author is Kaoru Amano of Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet) in National Institute of Information and Communications Technology. The co-corresponding author is Mitsuo Kawato of the Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International in Japan. The other authors are Kazuhisa Shibata and Yuka Sasaki of Brown. The National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation and the government of Japan supported the research. At least 351 companies across the United States are marketing unapproved stem cell procedures at 570 individual clinics. Such businesses advertise "stem cell" interventions for orthopedic injuries, neurological disorders, cardiac diseases, immunological conditions, pulmonary disorders, injured spinal cords, and cosmetic indications. In Cell Stem Cell on June 30, bioethicist Leigh Turner (@LeighGTurner) and stem cell researcher Paul Knoepfler (@pknoepfler) present an analysis of U.S. businesses engaged in "direct-to-consumer" marketing of these procedures. "In almost every state now, people can go locally to get stem cell 'treatments,'" says Knoepfler, of the University of California, Davis, and Shriners Hospital For Children. "Many people in larger metropolitan areas can just drive 15 minutes to find a clinic offering these kinds of services instead of, say, traveling to Mexico or the Caribbean. I think this reflects a change from what we've seen documented in the past and is different from what we typically think about when we think of stem cell tourism." Turner and Knoepfler found the businesses through Internet key word searches, text mining, and content analysis of company websites. For each business, the duo recorded the company name, location(s), website addresses, advertised stem cell types, and marketing claims concerning diseases, injuries, and conditions for which stem cells are reportedly administered. Their research should serve as a baseline for future studies of U.S. businesses engaged in direct-to-consumer advertising of purported stem cell interventions. Key findings from the report include: Clinics advertising stem cell interventions cluster in particular states. They are most likely to be found in California (113 clinics), Florida (104), Texas (71), Colorado (37), Arizona (36), and New York (21). Beverly Hills is home to 18 clinics, more than any other city in the nation, followed by New York (14 clinics), San Antonio (13), Los Angeles (12), Austin (11), Scottsdale (11), and Phoenix (10). Of the stem cell procedures that are marketed, 61% of businesses offer fat-derived stem cell interventions and 48% offer bone-marrow-based treatments. Advertisements for induced pluripotent stem cells (1 business), embryonic stem cells (1 business), and xenogeneic products (2 businesses) are rare. Over 300 of the businesses market interventions for orthopedic issues. Other advertised conditions include pain (150 businesses), sports injuries (90), neurological diseases (80), and immune disorders (75). "This is a marketplace that is dramatically expanding before our eyes--we were aware early on and tracked it early on, but I don't think we knew the scope and size of the market," says Turner, of the Center for Bioethics at the University of Minnesota. "Brakes ought to exist in a marketplace like this, but where are the brakes? Where are the regulatory bodies? And how did this entire industry come into being in a country where stem cell-based interventions and the medical devices that produce them are supposed to be regulated by the FDA?" Turner and Knoepfler, who runs the popular stem cell blog "The Niche," grew suspicious of an increase in American stem cell clinics when inquiries from readers and patients changed from Americans asking about going abroad for a stem cell treatment to Americans asking about seeking treatment in the United States. In investigating the people who run these clinics, Turner and Knoepfler found that not only were individuals such as cosmetic surgeons and naturopaths beginning to offer unapproved stem cell interventions, but the "pioneers" in the industry were training others to do the same. It is unclear whether federal authorities--particularly the Food & Drug Administration--and state medical boards missed the scope of the problem or are taking minimal action despite being aware of the spread of such businesses. "From around 2009 to the present, businesses have been entering the marketplace on a routine basis, they've been coming in making marketing assertions about stem cells treating 30-40 different diseases, and no one's taking meaningful regulatory action," Turner says. "Does that mean that people are getting access to safe and efficacious interventions or is there basically unapproved human experimentation taking place where people are going to these businesses and receiving experimental investigational cell-based interventions without being given a meaningful account of the lack of knowledge and evidence that they're being charged for?" A separate downside is that patients who have unapproved and unproven stem cell interventions decrease their chances of qualifying for FDA-cleared and IRB-approved clinical trials that comply with federal regulations. This is a loss for stem cell research. "Another serious consideration to think about is that over the years many people have begun to include these businesses in their overall impression of the stem cell field," Knoepfler says. "There is a real risk that as clinics proliferate, if we don't address it in a more proactive way, as we see negative outcomes for patients grow and people get mixed bags of information about stem cells, then this could really negatively impact the public perception of this research." ### The International Society for Stem Cell Research publishes a handbook to help members of the public make informed decisions about stem cell treatments: http://www.closerlookatstemcells.org/patient-resources Cell Stem Cell, Turner and Knoepfler: "Selling Stem Cells in the USA: Assessing the Direct-to-Consumer Industry," http://www.cell.com/cell-stem-cell/fulltext/S1934-5909(16)30157-6 Cell Stem Cell (@CellStemCell), published by Cell Press, is a monthly journal that publishes research reports describing novel results of unusual significance in all areas of stem cell research. Each issue also contains a wide variety of review and analysis articles covering topics relevant to stem cell research ranging from basic biological advances to ethical, policy, and funding issues. Visit: http://www.cell.com/cell-stem-cell. To receive Cell Press media alerts, contact press@cell.com. Astronomers are using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to study auroras -- stunning light shows in a planet's atmosphere -- on the poles of the largest planet in the Solar System, Jupiter. This observation programme is supported by measurements made by NASA's Juno spacecraft, currently on its way to Jupiter. Jupiter, the largest planet in the Solar System, is best known for its colourful storms, the most famous being the Great Red Spot. Now astronomers have focused on another beautiful feature of the planet, using the ultraviolet capabilities of the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope. The extraordinary vivid glows shown in the new observations are known as auroras. They are created when high energy particles enter a planet's atmosphere near its magnetic poles and collide with atoms of gas. As well as producing beautiful images, this programme aims to determine how various components of Jupiter's auroras respond to different conditions in the solar wind , a stream of charged particles ejected from the Sun. This observation programme is perfectly timed as NASA's Juno spacecraft is currently in the solar wind near Jupiter and will enter the orbit of the planet in early July 2016. While Hubble is observing and measuring the auroras on Jupiter, Juno is measuring the properties of the solar wind itself; a perfect collaboration between a telescope and a space probe [2]. "These auroras are very dramatic and among the most active I have ever seen", says Jonathan Nichols from the University of Leicester, UK, and principal investigator of the study. "It almost seems as if Jupiter is throwing a firework party for the imminent arrival of Juno." To highlight changes in the auroras Hubble is observing Jupiter daily for around one month. Using this series of images it is possible for scientists to create videos that demonstrate the movement of the vivid auroras, which cover areas bigger than the Earth. Not only are the auroras huge, they are also hundreds of times more energetic than auroras on Earth. And, unlike those on Earth, they never cease. Whilst on Earth the most intense auroras are caused by solar storms -- when charged particles rain down on the upper atmosphere, excite gases, and cause them to glow red, green and purple -- Jupiter has an additional source for its auroras. The strong magnetic field of the gas giant grabs charged particles from its surroundings. This includes not only the charged particles within the solar wind but also the particles thrown into space by its orbiting moon Io, known for its numerous and large volcanos. The new observations and measurements made with Hubble and Juno will help to better understand how the Sun and other sources influence auroras. While the observations with Hubble are still ongoing and the analysis of the data will take several more months, the first images and videos are already available and show the auroras on Jupiter's north pole in their full beauty. ### Notes [1] Jupiter's auroras were first discovered by the Voyager 1 spacecraft in 1979. A thin ring of light on Jupiter's nightside looked like a stretched-out version of our own auroras on Earth. Only later on was it discovered that the auroras were best visible in the ultraviolet. [2] This is not the first time astronomers have used Hubble to observe the auroras on Jupiter, nor is it the first time that Hubble has cooperated with space probes to do so. In 2000 the NASA/ESA Cassini spacecraft made its closest approach to Jupiter and scientists used this opportunity to gather data and images about the auroras simultaneously from Cassini and Hubble heic0009. In 2007 Hubble obtained images in support of its sister NASA Mission New Horizons which used Jupiter's gravity for a manoeuvre on its way to Pluto opo0714a. More information The Hubble Space Telescope is a project of international cooperation between ESA and NASA. Image credit: NASA, ESA Links Images of Hubble - http://www.spacetelescope.org/images/archive/category/spacecraft/ Link to hubblesite release - http://hubblesite.org/newscenter/archive/releases/2016/24/ Juno mission webpage - https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/juno/overview/index.html Contacts Jonathan Nichols University of Leicester, United Kingdom Tel: +44 116 252 5049 Email: jdn4@leicester.ac.uk Mathias Jaeger ESA/Hubble, Public Information Officer Garching bei Munchen, Germany Cell: +49 176 62397500 Email: mjaeger@partner.eso.org While there are a number of studies on alcohol misuse, most of the research has been focused on the adult population. Alcohol is the most widely used drug among young adults between the ages of 18 to 25. Binge drinking -- almost a rite of passage -- peaks during the college years. So this begs the question, "Are there specific characteristics associated with high-level binge drinking habits in college students?" A new psychology study conducted at Florida Atlantic University is the first to delve into the specific subcomponents of inhibition behavior as it relates to binge drinking to help predict who may be at high risk, and to better develop targeted education, intervention, and support programs. "There are many aspects of inhibition behavior, which is essentially the ability to stop yourself from a particular behavior," said Andres L. Paz, lead author of the study and a psychology student in FAU's Charles E. Schmidt College of Science who will be receiving his Ph.D. in August. "Looking specifically at risk factors, I wanted to see if there was one particular aspect of inhibition that could better predict propensity in young adults to binge drink." Previous studies on binge drinking have used a blanket approach on inhibition to gauge behavior. Over the course of one month, Paz investigated three specific subcomponents of inhibition behavior: the ability to stop or prevent a response to stimuli; the ability to cancel an already initiated response to stimuli; and the ability to override distracting stimuli in order to carry out a desired response. To test these subcomponent behaviors of inhibition, study participants were assigned three tasks involving motor responses to different stimuli; each representing one of the three subcomponents. Prior to completing these tasks, participants, who ranged in age from 18 to 25, filled out a detailed questionnaire on their demographic information, alcohol use, and binge drinking history. Every two weeks, they completed an online alcohol consumption log, and at the end of the study, they returned to the lab to perform the three motor response tasks again. Using regression model analysis, an analytical method used to predict behaviors, Paz was able to obtain and decipher the results from his research. The regression model tabulated all of the data from the tasks as well as the surveys and alcohol consumption logs, to measure the number of intoxication days, the days in which they became drunk, and the number of days when they were hung over. "Results from this study show that the 'withholding of the response' task or the ability to stop or prevent a response to stimuli, was the most significant factor in predicting binge drinking behavior," said Paz. "Greater errors on this particular task was associated with higher numbers of drunk days." The "withholding of the response" task was an exercise that measured an individual's ability to prevent himself or herself from responding to stimuli or stopping the response from happening altogether. Paz likens this to "self-control." "Perhaps our biggest takeaway from this study is that we suspect that the inability to withhold a response from stimuli plays a key role in putting a person at greater risk of binge drinking behaviors," said Paz. However, Paz cautions that there are still many unanswered questions and more research that is needed. "We still don't know if binge drinking puts you at risk of becoming an alcoholic or whether it is simply a phase you outgrow when you graduate. And what about weekend warrior binge drinkers?," said Paz. "There are so many elements involved with any kind of addiction including alcoholism. That is why it's so important to continue research in this area to help us develop more personalized approaches to treat addiction. One size doesn't fit all." Results of this study titled "Inhibitory Performance Predicting Drinking Behaviours Among Young Adults," was published in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism. ### About Florida Atlantic University: Florida Atlantic University, established in 1961, officially opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the University, with an annual economic impact of $6.3 billion, serves more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students at sites throughout its six-county service region in southeast Florida. FAU's world-class teaching and research faculty serves students through 10 colleges: the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters, the College of Business, the College for Design and Social Inquiry, the College of Education, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the Graduate College, the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing and the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science. FAU is ranked as a High Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The University is placing special focus on the rapid development of critical areas that form the basis of its strategic plan: Healthy aging, biotech, coastal and marine issues, neuroscience, regenerative medicine, informatics, lifespan and the environment. These areas provide opportunities for faculty and students to build upon FAU's existing strengths in research and scholarship. For more information, visit http://www.fau.edu. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded a grant totaling $3.4 million over five years to Jackson Laboratory Professor and Director of Immunological Sciences Jacques Banchereau, Ph.D. to develop new clinical adjuvants -- agents that boost vaccine effectiveness -- to better protect elderly and immunosuppressed patients. In the U.S., an estimated 90 percent of deaths due to influenza are in people aged 65 and older. "Vaccines are essential public health tools that have protected countless individuals from illness and death due to infectious disease," Banchereau says, "but many in use today provide insufficient protection, especially for older patients and those with compromised immune systems." Adjuvants are components of vaccines that are added to boost the immune response to vaccines, but, Banchereau notes, "few adjuvants have been proven safe and effective for use in humans. This new funding will allow us to screen new combinations of adjuvants in human immune cells, and to investigate their mechanisms of action, with the ultimate goal of discovering new combinations that boost the efficacy of vaccines and lead to new vaccine development." Adjuvant substances include liposomes, lipopolysaccharide, components of bacterial cell walls, and some forms of DNA. They generally stimulate innate immune response by mimicking a natural infection, and augment the activities of specific components of the immune system: dendritic cells, lymphocytes and macrophages. The research team will focus their efforts on human dendritic cells, which facilitate the changes in T and B cells that provide subsequent immunity, searching for combination adjuvants that lead to enhanced immune response in vitro and in laboratory mice. They will work with industry partners to bring successful combinations to human vaccination trials. Banchereau comments, "This project will leverage The Jackson Laboratory's cutting-edge technologies, innovative mouse models, powerful computational and bioinformatics infrastructure, and the complementary expertise of a dynamic team of investigators." ### The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution based in Bar Harbor, Maine, with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center, a facility in Sacramento, Calif., and a genomic medicine institute in Farmington, Conn. It employs 1,800 staff, and its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health. New Rochelle, NY, June 30, 2016 -- A study comparing the effectiveness of usual care alone to usual care plus either auricular or traditional Chinese acupuncture in treating patients with headaches due to a previous traumatic brain injury (TBI) showed a significant improvement in headache-related quality of life (QoL) with the addition of acupuncture. Auricular acupuncture had a greater overall impact on headache-related QoL than did traditional Chinese acupuncture, according to the study published in Medical Acupuncture, a peer-reviewed journal from by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers. The article is available free for download on the Medical Acupuncture website until July 29, 2016. In the article "A Randomized Exploratory Study to Evaluate Two Acupuncture Methods for the Treatment of Headaches Associated with Traumatic Brain Injury," Wayne Jonas, MD, and coauthors from Samueli Institute (Alexandria, VA), Integrative Healing, LLC (Hyattsville, MD), Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD), and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital (Fort Belvoir, VA), conducted the study in previously deployed members of the U.S. military who had mild to moderate TBI and headaches. Chronic or recurrent headache is reported by 80% of Service members with TBI. Participants in the 6-week study received usual care alone, or usual care plus either 10 auricular acupuncture sessions involving six to nine needled points and indwelling needles left in for up to three days, or 10 Traditional Chinese acupuncture sessions with placement of up to 22 needles on the limbs, head, and torso. "Chronic concussion headaches are a clinical challenge. Acupuncture appears promising to avoid the opioid gateway for these patients," says Richard C. Niemtzow, MD, PhD, MPH, Editor-in-Chief of Medical Acupuncture and Director, Director of the United States Air Force Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine Center, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. ### About the Journal Medical Acupuncture, the Official Journal of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, is an authoritative peer-reviewed journal published bimonthly in print and online. Led by Richard C. Niemtzow, MD, PhD, MPH, Director, United States Air Force Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine Center (Joint Base Andrews, MD), the Journal presents evidence-based clinical articles, case reports, and research findings that integrate concepts from traditional and modern forms of acupuncture with allopathic medicine. Tables of content and a sample issue may be viewed on the Medical Acupuncturewebsite. About the Publisher Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers is a privately held, fully integrated media company known for establishing authoritative peer-reviewed journals in many promising areas of science and biomedical research, including The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Alternative and Complementary Therapies, Journal of Women's Health, and Journal of Palliative Medicine. Its biotechnology trade magazine, GEN (Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News, was the first in its field and is today the industry's most widely read publication worldwide. A complete list of the firm's 80 journals, books, and newsmagazines is available on the Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers website. Scientists from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT), the Institute for Theoretical and Experimental Physics, and the National Research University Higher School of Economics have devised a method of distinguishing black holes from compact massive objects that are externally indistinguishable from one another. The method involves studying the energy spectrum of particles moving in the vicinity -- in one case it will be continuous and in the other it will be discrete. The findings have been published in Physical Review D. Black holes, which were predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity, have an event horizon - a boundary beyond which nothing, even light, can return to the outside world. The radius of this boundary is called the Schwarzschild radius, in physical terms it is the radius of an object for which the escape velocity is greater than the speed of light, which means that nothing is able to overcome its gravity. Black holes of stellar mass are the result of gravitational collapse which occurs at the time when a star "burns out" all its thermonuclear fuel and the force of the gas pressure can no longer resist gravity. If the star is massive enough, it collapses to a size smaller than the Schwarzschild radius and turns into a black hole. However, time on the event horizon slows down so much that for an outside observer the collapsing process almost stops (if a ship falls into a black hole, for example, to an outside observer it will appear to be continually falling toward the horizon), therefore all the black holes we see are objects that are eternally collapsing. Astrophysicists have not yet been able to "see" a black hole directly, but there are many objects that are "suspected" of being black holes. Most scientists are sure that in the centre of our galaxy there is a supermassive black hole; there are binary systems where one of the components is most likely a black hole. However, some astrophysicists believe that there may be compact massive objects that fall very slightly short of black hole status; their range is only a little larger than the Schwarzschild radius. It may be the case that some of the "suspects" are in fact objects such as these. From the outside, however, they are not distinguishable from black holes. Emil Akhmedov, Fedor Popov, and Daniil Kalinov devised a method to tell the difference between them, or more precisely the difference between compact massive objects and collapsing objects. "We examined the scalar quantum field around a black hole and a compact object and found that around the collapsing object - the black hole, there are no bound states, but around the compact object there are," explains FedorPopov, a member of staff at MIPT's Laboratory of High Energy Physics. He and his colleagues examined the behaviour of scalar particles (the spin of these particles is zero - an example of this could be the Higgs boson) in the vicinity of black holes and massive compact objects. The scientists derived analytical expressions for the energy spectrum of the particles. It was found that near the surface of an ultra-compact star with a radius slightly larger than the Schwarzschild radius there is a "potential hole" - an area of space where particles fall into a gravitational "trap". The problem in this case is then similar to a simple task in quantum mechanics where the spectrum of the particles in the potential hole needs to be found. This spectrum is discrete, i.e. it has energy values where there are no particles. In simpler terms, the potential hole does not release particles of certain energies, and an "empty space" appears in the spectrum. In the case of a black hole in the vicinity of a Schwarzschild sphere there are no stationary potentials as there is a constant process of collapse, the boundary of the "hole" moves away and the energy spectrum is continuous. "We scatter a beam of particles on the object and observe the spectrum. And we see that if there are no discrete levels in the spectrum, it is a black hole, and if there are - it is a compact object. Although this particular study focused on spinless particles, we can assume that the spectrum of other types of particles would behave in the same way," says Fedor Popov. He notes that so far this is only a theoretical study; we do not yet have the means to observe the spectra of particles in the vicinity of potential black holes -- but now we are one step closer. ### Computer technology has become integral to the learning process. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, at the end of the last decade, some 97 percent of U.S. teachers had one or more computers located in the classroom every day, and the ratio of students to computers in the classroom every day was a little over 5 to 1. With the advent of tablet and hand-held computing devices, this ratio is fast approaching 1 to 1. Up until very recently, mainstream educational software for computing devices in the classroom has been designed based upon a style of interaction utilizing the traditional WIMP (window, icon, menu, pointing device) paradigm. Student engagement is then an isolated one-on-one experience, individual student to individual machine. To better engage students with their environment through educational technologies, researchers have begun exploring a variety of solutions that provide more embodied and tangible interactions--ranging from collaborative activities surrounding an interactive tabletop, to interactive robots that teach language learning. "Successful integration of any new technology into the classroom environment requires an understanding of the facilitators for and barriers to deployment," says Winslow Burleson, PhD, associate professor, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing, the Principal Investigator on the study. "While such technologies are shown to be highly engaging for students and perhaps foster learning in new ways, our research looks at the need to understand the far-reaching utility of these technologies, particularly in classroom settings." In order to examine how the utility of one such solution played out in a classroom setting, Burleson teamed up with researchers from Arizona State University and Carleton University to study the implementation of a tangible learning environment that utilizes teachable agent framing coupled with a physical robotic agent--Robo-Tangible Activities for Geometry (rTAG). How it works: rTAG projects a Cartesian plane onto a white floor mat, upon which a LEGO robot named Quinn navigates. An iPod Touch mounted on top of the LEGO components displays Quinn's face and outputs its voice, through which it can give affective responses. The iPod also provides the entry point for interacting with Quinn. The final component is the mobile interface, another iPod Touch, held by a student when interacting with the system. To issue a command to Quinn, students must first touch the mounted iPod, which will trigger a popup on the mobile interface, where they can choose from a variety of actions, including: move units, turn and plot point. "Requiring students to touch Quinn's mounted iPod before every command, ensures they too will move," says Kasia Muldner, PhD., Assistant Professor, Carleton University. Before using the system, students are told they must help Quinn solve a geometry problem. After plotting the point, students can check if their solution is correct by tapping on the "Check Answer" button on the mobile interface, triggering Quinn's visual and audio response. To test both the efficacy and feasibility of the rTAG system, the researchers developed a virtual platform called vTAG, encompassing the same features, but all the interactions and actions take place through a regular WIMP-based interface, on a single screen divided into three sections for the plane, Quinn's face, and command line. Together, the rTAG and vTAG versions form the TAG system. Researchers conducted a weeklong study to evaluate the impact of the TAG system in a school setting, inviting teachers from a California public school district to bring their students to one or more sessions. Twelve teachers, from four different schools, took the researchers up on their offer. Classes had 25-40 students, with eight classes from 3rd, three from 4th and one from 5th grade. Sessions were held in a room with one rTAG and three vTAG modules setup. To better understand the affordances and limitations of integrating the TAG system within a school setting, researchers analyzed how teachers planned their lessons around the TAG system and how teachers used the rTAG setup, and if it differed from the more common vTAG setup. "From the twelve sessions we held, we found most teachers did not give students an introduction to the TAG system prior to their session, however some chose to impart domain knowledge such as angle and coordinates, ahead of the session" said Cecil Lozano, PhD, Arizona State University. In terms of the session introduction, every teacher had their students gather around a specific station, generally a vTAG one, and would explain how the system worked, half of the teachers opted to have a researcher explain the system instead. The only exception to this method was one instance in which a teacher had a "very tech savvy" student man the station while she explained how it worked. After the demonstration teachers would have their students divvy up into groups and rotate around the stations. Benefits and Limitations Observed During Implementation: During the experiments, the researchers sought to understand what value teachers placed on the TAG system, and to describe the barriers teachers faced in its implementation. "Student engagement was, by far, perceived as one of the strongest assets of the system," said Dr. Burleson. "When the time came for students to rotate stations, every time a facilitator asked which group wanted to use the rTAG station next, students would eagerly raise their hands. Furthermore, on group rotation, students who didn't get a chance to interact with Quinn in the rTAG group would loudly express their discontent." Several teachers perceived the physical robot as a key benefit of the system. One teacher noted her students' excitement for Quinn fomented a session in which students didn't even realize they were learning, "They just think they went and played with a robot." Another teacher noted that personifying Quinn allowed the students to relate to it, motivating students to "persist in a problem and to get Quinn where he was supposed to go." The researchers posit this heightened engagement may be due to a novelty effect, which they anticipate will subside as students grow accustomed to the system. Another common theme among teachers was related to the value of exposing students to technology. "We found many teachers in the school sought students' proficiency in the use of digital tools," said Victor Girotto, PhD, Arizona State University. "To them, this was another opportunity of showing their students some of the affordances made possible by technology, possibly making them more proficient in its use, while also leveraging their curiosity." As noted by many teachers, rTAG also allowed students to practice domain-general skills such as critical thinking and problem solving. Teachers usually divided students into smaller, rotating, groups to facilitate collaboration. Generally, when a group used vTAG, however, only those few close to the monitor were engaged, while the rest would just sit back and watch, or wander around the room. On the physical setup, however, more students usually tried to participate together with the students who were currently using the system. One teacher noted: "I see eight or nine kids jumping in and trying to help, or looking to see if it's time to touch. It's just they're more involved, more willing to maybe offer a solution." In many rTAG sessions, several students could be seen standing on the foam mat discussing the problem, constantly passing the iPod Touch around and taking turns on who would be interacting with Quinn. Given the feedback from the teachers and the twelve class sessions, researchers resolved their reflections on the TAG system to four design recommendations, this includes: 1) target multiple learning objectives, 2) emphasize the collaborative affordances, 3) optimize for training, and 4) innovate the use of known system components. "Our findings are in agreement with some previous research, which shows that group experiences appear to foster participation," remarks Dr. Burleson, "so designers should model systems with tangible and embodied elements which explore their affordances to foster collaboration by design, rather than planning for students to individually use the technology." Researchers also note barriers to rTAG implementation, including lack of time for setup, lack of training for instructors, student intimidation by the rTAG setup, and limitations related to the number of students per station. Specifically, teachers mentioned there were too many students at each station, and particularly prevalent in vTAG stations, some students relegated to a passive viewer role. While the overall interaction with the system may be unusual and requires specific training, the familiarity with some of the system components (iPods) may help to bring down this barrier, as well as possibly reducing apprehension of using it. "This allows schools to reuse technology they already have, detracting from the cost of the unit. Furthermore, students' familiarity with existing technology allows them to better understand how the system as a whole functions because they are already familiar with its parts," said Dr. Burleson. ### This paper was presented at CHI '16 Proceedings of the 2016 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems Pages 919-930 ACM New York, NY, USA 2016 table of contents ISBN: 978-1-4503-3362-7 doi>10.1145/2858036.2858454 Researcher Affiliations: Victor Girotto1, Cecil Lozano1, Kasia Muldner2, Winslow Burleson3, Erin Walker1 1Arizona State University Tempe, AZ, USA 2 Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada 3 New York University, New York, NY, USA Acknowledgements: The authors would like to thank Elissa Thomas for her help with the data collection, as well as the teachers and administrators of the district. This research was funded by NSF 1249406: EAGER: A Teachable Robot for Mathematics Learning in Middle School Classrooms and by the CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia - DF 70040-020, Brazil. About the NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing is a global leader in nursing education, research, and practice. It offers a Bachelor of Science with a major in Nursing, a Master of Science and Post-Master's Certificate Programs, a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and a Doctor of Philosophy in nursing research and theory development. About the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University include nearly 19,000 students and more than 300 faculty members who conduct nearly $100 million in research, spanning a broad range of engineering, construction and technology fields. Across the six schools contained within the Fulton Schools, 24 undergraduate and 32 graduate programs are offered on ASU's Tempe and Polytechnic campuses and online. The schools' educational programs emphasize problem solving, entrepreneurship, multidisciplinary interactions, social context and connections. Arizona State University includes more than 80,000 students and 1,600 tenured or tenure-track faculty on multiple campuses in metropolitan Phoenix as well as online. About Research at Carleton University Carleton University is a dynamic, interdisciplinary research-intensive institution with a creative international approach to research that has led to many significant discoveries and creative works in science and engineering, business, public policy and the arts. Home to many award-winning researchers, Carleton is uniquely committed to discovery, knowledge, and understanding of the world around us. Researchers at the Ruhr-Universitat Bochum and the Technische Universitat Dortmund have examined how the interactions between solvents and biomolecules change at high pressure. With infrared spectroscopy and computer simulations, they analysed the behaviour of the small molecule TMAO -- short for trimethylamine oxide -- in a pressure range from one bar to ten kilobars. These results could help us understand how organisms have adapted to life in the deep sea on the molecular level. The team of the Bochum Chair for Theoretical Chemistry, headed by Prof. Dr. Dominik Marx, cooperated with the Dortmund Work Groups for Physical Chemistry of Prof. Dr. Roland Winter and Theoretical Physical Chemistry of Prof. Dr. Stefan M. Kast in the context of the Universitatsallianz Ruhr. They report their results in the journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition. Life under extreme conditions Not only micro-organisms but also larger animals, such as fish, thrive at extreme pressures in the deep sea. How they master this challenge on the molecular level has been little understood until now. It is known that, at high pressures, small molecules that stabilize protein structures accumulate in the cells of these creatures. One such molecule is TMAO. Just how it works, however, has remained a matter of speculation until now. Spectra change systematically at rising pressure The team of Roland Winter used Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to record how the spectra of TMAO change with increasing pressure. In a diamond anvil cell constructed especially for the purpose, the researchers varied the pressure from normal conditions up to the kilobar range. The vibration spectra obtained in this way provide insight into the structure of the molecule itself and also into the way in which its immediate solvent environment adapts to the pressure. The scientists observed that some bands of the spectrum shifted to higher frequencies, but also that individual peaks changed their form in a characteristic manner. The two groups of Dominik Marx and Stefan Kast, both working theoretically, confirmed these findings with ab initio simulations and calculations based on liquid state theory. From the data, the team elucidated the molecular cause of the experimentally observed spectral changes. More hydrogen bonds At low pressure, the negatively polarized oxygen atom of the TMAO molecule creates three hydrogen bonds with the surrounding water molecules in almost all cases. At high pressure, however, according to the computer simulations, about half of all TMAO molecules have four hydrogen bonds. "That is a drastic change in the solvation behaviour. We have never seen anything like this before", says Dominik Marx. "We can still only speculate whether this effect can actually explain how folded proteins and biomolecular processes in water together with TMAO can withstand extremely high pressures", adds Roland Winter. "This is exactly what we want to find out together in further studies in our High Pressure Research Group". With their combination of methods, the Dortmund and Bochum researchers have the right tools at their disposal. "Coupling infrared spectroscopy with our theoretical methods based on the electronic structure of the molecules provides an outstanding tool for gaining new insights into the world of extreme biophysics, which is very difficult to access experimentally", says Stefan Kast. ### Universitatsallianz Ruhr Since 2007, the three universities in the Ruhr area have been engaged in close strategic cooperation under the umbrella of the Universitatsallianz Ruhr (UA Ruhr). By pooling resources, the performance of the partner universities is being systematically expanded. Under the motto "better together", there are now over 100 cooperative projects in research, teaching, and administration. More than 115,000 students and nearly 1,300 professors make UA Ruhr one of the largest and highest-performing scientific locations in Germany. Funding The DFG (German Research Foundation) supports the work through the Research Group "Exploring the Dynamical Landscape of Biomolecular Systems by Pressure Perturbation" (FOR 1979) and also in the context of the Resolv Excellence Cluster (EXC 1069). The researchers did the simulations in the Leibniz Computer Centre in Munich with the aid of the Supermuc system, at the Bochum Virtual Laboratory, and on the Lido-System at Technische Universitat Dortmund. Press contact Prof. Dr. Dominik Marx, Chair of Theoretical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr-Universitat Bochum, Germany, Phone: 49-0234-32-28083, Email: dominik.marx@rub.de Prof. Dr. Roland Winter, Physical Chemistry I, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Technische Universitat Dortmund, Germany, Phone: 49-231-755-3900, Email: roland.winter@tu-dortmund.de Prof. Dr. Stefan M. Kast, Physical Chemistry I, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Technische Universitat Dortmund, Germany, Phone: 49-231-755-3906, Email: stefan.kast@tu-dortmund.de Click for more UA Ruhr http://www.uaruhr.de/en/ Resolv http://www.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/solvation/ Parents and society in general shouldn't shift the blame for young people's sexual behavior on what teens supposedly see and read in the media about intimate encounters. Proclaiming a link between such so-called sexy media and the sexual behavior of young people is in fact premature. The media neither contributes to the early initiation of sex among young people, nor to their sexual conduct more generally. So says Christopher Ferguson of Stetson University in the US, who led a thorough systematic analysis of 22 relevant studies on the topic along with colleagues Patrick Markey at Villanova University and Rune Nielsen at IT University Copenhagen. The results of this meta-analysis are published in Springer's journal Psychiatric Quarterly. Parents and policy makers often raise the concern that so-called sexy media (media depicting or discussing sexual encounters) may promote sexual behavior among teenagers. No conclusive evidence has however yet been provided about the matter by researchers. Ferguson's team therefore conducted a meta-analysis of 22 previous studies that all measured the influence of some form of media on an outcome related to teenagers' sexual behaviour, such as pregnancy, risky sexual behavior or the initiation of sex. The studies in total took into account the views of more than 22,000 participants younger than 18 years old. Only a very weak link was found between the type of media that teenagers viewed and their eventual sexual behavior. It also plays only a very minor role in the initiation of sex. The researchers do not exclude the possibility that sexy media may still influence sexual attitudes, but say that this does not seem to carry over into actual behavior. "Evidence for an association between media and sexual behavior is minimal," says Ferguson, who believes that parents and peers play a much greater role in how teenagers' moral values around sexuality develops. Despite increased availability of sex in the media, US government data suggests teens are waiting longer to have sex, and teen pregnancy rates are at historic lows. The results do not exclude the possibility that media may have some influence on at-risk youth who are deprived of other socialization influences. "That is to say, when information from parents or schools are lacking, media may become the only source of information on sexuality," explains Ferguson. He warns that simply making the media the scapegoat and giving it considerable public attention might distract parents and policy makers from more pressing and important issues related to teen sexuality. According to him, parents must be encouraged to discuss sexuality with their teens, proper sex-education programs must be implemented in schools, and ways should be examined by which peer networks can be used to promote safe sex. "The encouraging message from our results is that the media is unlikely to thwart parental efforts to socialize children should parents take the initiative to talk directly to their children about sex," Ferguson adds. ### Reference: Ferguson, C. J. et al. (2016). Does Sexy Media Promote Teen Sex? A Meta-Analytic and Methodological Review, Psychiatric Quarterly. DOI 10.1007/s11126-016-9442-2 HUNTSVILLE, TX 6/30/16 -- Researchers have validated a new risk assessment tool that can be used by the Department of Homeland Security to help evaluate decisions and priorities in natural disasters, terrorist events, and major accidents. The Department of Homeland Security has a broad and complex mission, with priorities that include preparing for and responding to a range of terrorist events, natural disasters, and major accidents. Russell Lundberg of the Department of Security Studies at Sam Houston State University and Henry Willis, Director of the Rand Homeland Security and Defense Center, recently applied a tool originally developed to address risks in environmental policy, the Deliberative Method for Ranking Risk, to aid in strategic planning for security. Their findings were published in Homeland Security Affairs and the Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The study was in response to a National Academy of Sciences recommendation that the Department of Homeland Security adopt qualitative risk assessments as part of the strategic planning process. The Deliberative Method for Ranking Risk has five-steps, which include defining and categorizing risks to be ranked, identifying the risk attributes to be considered, describing the risks in a summary document in term of the attributes, selecting participants to assess the risks and performing risk ranking, and finally analyzing and describing the issues identified and the resulting rankings. To test the validity of the method, a second study examined 10 key hazards under the purview of the Department, including earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, pandemic influenza, nuclear detonation, explosive bombing, anthrax attack, cyber-attack on critical infrastructure, accidents involving toxic industrial chemicals, and oil spills. By searching existing literature, Lundberg and Willis identified the key attributes of each hazard based on health and economic damages as well as social, psychological, environmental, and political concerns. Among the top attributes identified were: Greatest number of deaths in a single episode Average number of deaths per year Average number of severe injuries or illnesses per year Average number of less severe injuries or illnesses per year Average amount of economic damages per year Greatest economic damage from a single episode Average number of individuals displaced per year The method was tested on 26 individuals in groups assembled in Pittsburgh, PA and Santa Monica, CA. Although the sample was not representative of the city, state, or nation, it did provide a glimpse into citizen concerns over homeland security issues. Among hazards prompting the highest concerns were pandemic influenza, hurricanes, and earthquakes, while the hazards prompting the least concerns were oil spills, anthrax attack, or cyber attacks on critical infrastructure. The method can be useful to support strategic decisions across the homeland security enterprise, from individual buildings to the nation as a whole. ### There was a period during the last ice age when temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere went on a rollercoaster ride, plummeting and then rising again every 1,500 years or so. Those abrupt climate changes wreaked havoc on ecosystems, but their cause has been something of a mystery. New evidence published this week in the leading journal Science shows for the first time that the ocean's overturning circulation slowed during every one of those temperature plunges - at times almost stopping. "People have long supposed this link between overturning circulation and these abrupt climate events. This evidence implicates the ocean," said L. Gene Henry, the lead author of the study and a graduate student at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory. The impact of changes in the ocean overturning circulation on climate has become a hot topic today as global temperatures rise and melting sea ice and glaciers add freshwater to the North Atlantic. A 2015 study suggested that cooling in the North Atlantic may be due to a reduction in the overturning circulation, while a 2016 study suggested there had not been enough freshwater to have an effect. The new study explores what happened to ocean circulation when the earth went through a series of abrupt climate changes in the past during a time when ice covered part of North America and temperatures were much colder than today. It looks at the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation, which distributes heat as it moves warmer surface water from the tropics toward Greenland and the high northern latitudes and carries colder, deeper water from the North Atlantic southward. Using chemical tracers in sediment that builds up on the sea floor over time, Henry and his coauthors were able to document the relative speed of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation during each abrupt climate change during the last ice age. The chemical tracers show that the speed of the ocean overturning circulation changed first, and that sea surface temperature changed a while later. That suggests that cooling may start with changes in the ocean circulation, influencing the northern sea surface and atmosphere, said co-author Jerry McManus, a professor at Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory. Evidence from ice cores and deep-sea sediment has shown that the northern climate also cooled before the southern climate during these abrupt changes, creating a "bipolar seesaw," with the north cool while the south was warm, and the south cooling as the north warmed. The scientists stress that more work is needed to determine whether changes in ocean circulation initiated the abrupt climate changes or were an intermediary effect initially triggered by something else. "Our study supports the view that changes in ocean circulation were at least in part responsible for causing abrupt climate changes. However, what in turn caused those changes in circulation remains a mystery," Henry said. Also unclear is why these abrupt climate shifts, also seen in previous ice ages, haven't happened in the past 10,000 years. The instability appears to occur only in certain temperature ranges, and when there is a large amount of land ice that could contribute freshwater. "We would all like to understand better how the earth's climate operates," McManus said. "This demonstrates the crucial role that global circulation can play. The dynamics of the deep ocean directly influence the earth's climate." The series of abrupt climate changes studied here occurred between 60,000 and 25,000 years ago, ending as the last ice age peaked. Each followed a general pattern in the Northern Hemisphere: The cooling happening over hundreds to 1,000 years, then the frigid temperatures persisted for a few hundred years in what is known as a stadial, McManus said. Once warming started, it happened very rapidly, with a rise of 3 to 6 degrees Celsius in average sea surface temperature and larger changes over Greenland within a span of decades. During every cold northern stadial, the overturning circulation had slowed, so it wasn't bringing as much heat northward from the tropics and Southern Hemisphere, the study shows. The chemical tracers also suggest that circulation slowed almost to a halt during certain stadials known as Heinrich events, when massive amounts of icebergs broke off and drifted away from the Laurentide ice sheet, which covered a large part of North America at the time. Icebergs carry freshwater that can affect ocean circulation, and computer models have suggested that adding that much freshwater to the Atlantic could shut down circulation. Exactly what influence the icebergs had during these periods will be the target of future research. To determine how ocean circulation changed, the scientists measured three types of chemical tracers. By comparing the ratio of protactinium-231 to thorium-230, two daughter isotopes of uranium decay that remain in seawater for relatively short but consistently different periods of time before drifting into the seafloor, they could determine when circulation was strongest. Another isotope, carbon-13, captured in tiny shells, is more common in North Atlantic waters than in southern waters. When circulation was strong, protactinium was low and carbon 13 was high, because more protactinium was carried away by the current and more northern waters formed. Axel Timmermann, a professor of oceanography at the University of Hawaii who studies abrupt climate changes and was not involved in this study, called it a "breakthrough analysis." "Large changes in the North Atlantic meridional overturning circulation are thought to have played a major role in generating millennial-scale global variability, known as Dansgaard-Oechger events, during the last glacial period. The paper by Henry, McManus and colleagues finally provides supporting evidence for this fundamental scientific hypothesis," Timmermann said. ### The other coauthors of the paper are Bill Curry of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences; Natalie Roberts and Alex Piotrowski of the University of Cambridge; and Lloyd Keigwin of Woods Hole. The research was funded by the National Science Foundation, the Comer Science and Education Foundation, and the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Climate Center. The paper, "North Atlantic ocean circulation and abrupt climate change during the last glaciation," is available from the authors or from Science: 202-326-6440 or scipak@aaas.org. Scientist contacts: Gene Henry lhenry@ldeo.columbia.edu Jerry McManus jmcmanus@ldeo.columbia.edu More information: Kevin Krajick, Senior editor, science news, The Earth Institute kkrajick@ei.columbia.edu 212-854-9729 Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory is Columbia University's home for Earth science research. Its scientists develop fundamental knowledge about the origin, evolution and future of the natural world, from the planet's deepest interior to the outer reaches of its atmosphere, on every continent and in every ocean, providing a rational basis for the difficult choices facing humanity. http://www.ldeo.columbia.edu | @LamontEarth The Earth Institute, Columbia University mobilizes the sciences, education and public policy to achieve a sustainable earth. http://www.earth.columbia.edu. Zika virus infection cannot be accurately diagnosed in newborns solely on the basis of microcephaly screening, according to the largest study of its kind to date published in The Lancet. The findings suggest that signs and symptoms of brain abnormalities, regardless of head circumference, should also be included in screening criteria to detect all affected newborns. "Our study, which included all suspected cases of microcephaly in newborns in Brazil up to February, discarded three out of five cases after a full investigation as most suspected cases ended up being normal newborn babies with small heads. However, one in five definite or probable Zika cases had head circumference values in the normal range. Therefore, the current focus on microcephaly screening alone is too narrow", explains lead author Professor Cesar G Victora from the Universidade Federal de Pelotas in Brazil.[1] Zika virus is known to cause microcephaly, a birth defect marked by smaller head and brain size. Following the 2015 Zika outbreak in northeast Brazil, the Brazilian Ministry of Health (MOH) set up a surveillance system for microcephaly, and suspected cases were selected on the basis of small head circumferences. By February 27, 2016, nearly 5909 suspected cases were reported, including 5554 (94%) live births. In the largest case series on suspected Zika virus infection to date, Victora and colleagues used data from the Brazilian MOH surveillance system to describe the clinical (eg, sex, gestational age, imaging findings, maternal history of rash, mortality) and anthropometric (eg, head circumference and birthweight) characteristics of live born babies. In total, they reviewed all 1501 live born cases (27%) that had been fully investigated. Suspected cases were divided into five categories according to diagnostic certainty of Zika infection: definite, highly probable, moderately probable, somewhat probable, and discarded (not deemed to be Zika). The findings showed that compared with 899 cases who were discarded, the 602 definite or probable cases had small head circumference at birth and their mothers were more likely to experience a rash during pregnancy (21% vs 61%). They were also four times more likely to die in the first week of life. Rashes in late pregnancy were linked with brain abnormalities despite normal head sizes. Development of the cranium largely occurs by week 30, so children can be born with normal sized heads but still have important brain damage. This finding raises the possibility that Zika virus infection in newborn babies might lead to brain damage, say the authors. Importantly, over 100 of the definite or probable cases had head circumferences within normal range and would not have been included in an analysis for Zika if smaller cutoffs had been used (table 2). "Although we believe that the underreporting of microcephaly cases is rare during the epidemic, newborns infected with the virus late in pregnancy may go unreported due to their head size being within normal range", says Victora. "Moreover, for a third of these definite or probable cases there was no history of rash during pregnancy."[1] According to Victora, "Our findings suggest that among pregnancies affected by Zika virus, some foetuses will have brain abnormalities and microcephaly, other will have abnormalities with normal head sizes, and others will not be affected. A surveillance system aimed at detecting all affected newborns should not just focus on microcephaly and rash during pregnancy and should be revised, and examination of all newborns during epidemic waves should be considered." [1] However, the authors note that these findings should be taken with caution, particularly because of the missing data that is inevitable when using routine surveillance systems. They also cannot yet determine the ideal cut-off point for head circumference with certainty, as knowledge about Zika virus congenital syndrome is quickly evolving. The authors also show that the peak of the microcephaly epidemic occurred at the end of 2015, about 6 to 9 months later than the peak of the Zika virus epidemic in northeast Brazil. Since then, the numbers of newly reported cases of microcephaly have been falling steadily. Victora predicts that, "Because a new wave of Zika virus infection took place in Southeastern Brazil in early 2016, there could be a second wave of microcephaly at the end of the year."[1] Writing in a linked Comment, Dr Jorg Heukelbach from the Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara, Brazil, and Dr Guilherme Loureiro Werneck from the Department of Epidemiology, Social Medicine Institute, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, say: "For incorporating new information besides microcephaly and rash during pregnancy to detect all affected cases, neurological signs and symptoms could be eligible, but might be difficult to obtain in most settings because of insufficient specialised personnel. The development of an accurate serological test that could be incorporated into routine prenatal care will be essential, and its validation a research priority...While the current outbreak is a paradigmatic example of how quickly evolving systematic scientific evidence can (and should) change the view on a disease within months, it can be expected that public health authorities, and also the scientific community, will struggle for many years with Zika epidemics and its consequences in Brazil and elsewhere." ### NOTES TO EDITORS: The study was funded by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, Pan American Health Organization, and Wellcome Trust. [1] Quotes direct from authors and cannot be found in text of Article. Scientists, led by Dr Jaroslaw Krzywinski, Head of the Vector Molecular Biology group at The Pirbright Institute have isolated a gene, which determines maleness in the species of mosquito that is responsible for transmitting malaria. The research, published in the journal Science, describes identification and characterisation of a gene, named Yob by the authors, which is the master regulator of the sex determination process in the African malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, and determines the male sex. In insects, sex is commonly determined by a primary genetic signal that during the first hours of life activates a short cascade of genes, whose sex-specific products ultimately control whether an individual will develop as male or female. The molecular mechanisms underlying these developmental processes are surprisingly extremely variable, and in particular the primary sex-determining genes drastically differ in their nature between different groups of insects. Similar to humans, many insects possess a pair of sex chromosomes, with females carrying identical XX chromosomes and males XY chromosomes, the Y chromosome harbouring a dominant male-determining gene. The molecular identity of such maleness genes has remained enigmatic. Yob represents only the second known case in insects. To identify Yob, researchers from Pirbright, with support from colleagues from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, used high-throughput sequencing to sample all transcripts (genetic messages) produced in the Anopheles gambiae male and female embryos. After comparison of the sequencing data, they found, exclusively in males, fragments of transcripts corresponding to Yob. Further research showed that Yob is encoded on the Y chromosome, and that activity of Yob was limited to males and was necessary to generate male-specific products of the sex determination pathway genes. Unexpectedly, Yob transcripts are highly detrimental to females. When injected into mixed-sex early embryos of Anopheles gambiae, or another African mosquito species, Anopheles arabiensis, Yob kills females before they hatch from eggs, but leaves male development unaffected. Conversely, silencing normal embryonic Yob activity is lethal to males. These results indicate that, apart from determining maleness, Yob is pivotal for the control of another fundamental developmental process, called dosage compensation, which balances levels of transcripts from genes located on the single X chromosome in males and on two X chromosomes in females. "Our research may have far-reaching implications for the control of malaria. This preventable disease is the major cause of human suffering and an immense barrier to socioeconomic development, mainly in poor countries of sub-Saharan Africa, where nearly 200 million clinical cases and half a million deaths are reported every year. Malaria in that region is transmitted primarily by females of Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles arabiensis. Currently, application of insecticides to control mosquitoes remains the most efficient way of combating the disease, but with a rampant spread of resistance to chemicals in mosquito populations, the insecticides may soon become ineffective. Clearly, we urgently need alternative more sustainable mosquito control methods. Genetic strategies, such as those successfully used to control agricultural pests, have great potential. However, they require releases of male mosquitoes only, which represents an insurmountable obstacle to extending genetic control to malaria vectors, because no efficient methods to separate sexes in Anopheles currently exist. Now, the female-killing property of Yob gives us an invaluable tool for the engineering of male-only Anopheles strains suitable for malaria control in the future", said Dr Krzywinski. ### For more information please contact: Teresa Maughan communications@pirbright.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1483 231417. About The Pirbright Institute The Pirbright Institute is a world leading centre of excellence in research and surveillance of virus diseases of farm animals and viruses that spread from animals to humans. Based in the UK and receiving strategic funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Institute works to enhance capability to contain, control and eliminate these economically and medically important diseases through highly innovative fundamental and applied bioscience. With an annual income of nearly 35 million from grants and commercial activity, and a total of 44.9 million strategic investment from BBSRC during 2014-2015, the Institute contributes to global food security and health, improving quality of life for animals and people. For more information about The Pirbright Institute see: http://www.pirbright.ac.uk About BBSRC The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) invests in world-class bioscience research and training on behalf of the UK public. Our aim is to further scientific knowledge, to promote economic growth, wealth and job creation and to improve quality of life in the UK and beyond. Funded by Government, BBSRC invested over 509M in world-class bioscience in 2014-15. We support research and training in universities and strategically funded institutes. BBSRC research and the people we fund are helping society to meet major challenges, including food security, green energy and healthier, longer lives. Our investments underpin important UK economic sectors, such as farming, food, industrial biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. For more information about BBSRC, our science and our impact see: http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk For more information about BBSRC strategically funded institutes see: http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/institutes Irvine, Calif., June 30, 2016 -- For the valerian plant, higher elevations in the Colorado Rocky Mountains are becoming much more co-ed. And the primary reason appears to be climate change. In a study appearing in Science, University of California, Irvine environmental biologists Kailen Mooney and Will Petry and colleagues report that an altering climate over the past four decades has significantly changed the growth patterns of male and female Valeriana edulis over elevation. Their work is the first to fully explain sex-specific species responses to climate change. Valerian is dioecious, meaning individuals are either male or female. Unlike the majority of flowering plants, these cannot self-fertilize. Other well-known dioecious species include asparagus, ginko, papaya, holly, spinach, pistachio, willow and aspen. In the Colorado Rockies, the sex ratio of valerian populations traditionally changed with climate from low elevation (50 percent male), where it's hot and dry, to high elevation (only 20 percent male), where it's cool and wet. At the highest elevations, the rarity of pollen-releasing males reduces the number of seeds produced by female plants. Now all that's changing. Over the past 40 years, tests conducted through the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory in Crested Butte, Colo., have revealed the region to be warming and drying to such a degree that each valerian population across the elevation gradient is now experiencing a climate that was historically found at a much lower elevation. Mooney and Petry said their study shows that as the drier, warmer climate moves "up slope," so do the arid-adapted males, shifting the sex ratios. Because of this, populations in which males were formerly rare now experience less mate limitation, enabling females to successfully produce more seed. "Nearly all animals and many plants have separate males and females, and they almost always differ in characteristics that affect how they interact with the environment," said Petry, who earned a Ph.D. in ecology & evolutionary biology at UCI this spring. "Understanding the responses of both sexes is important, because each sex must find mates of the opposite sex to reproduce, and no past work has connected ecological differences between males and females to their responses to climate change and the subsequent consequences for populations." These elevation-based patterns of sex ratio change are due, at least in part, to a physiological difference in how males and females use water. While the increase in males has led to flourishing valerian growth at higher altitudes, an excess of males at low elevations may ultimately result in population declines. In this way, the plants' sex-specific responses to climate change may cause the species to shift to higher elevations. Furthermore, fluctuations in the relative abundance of valerian males and females may also have repercussions for species associated with this plant, as the two sexes support different communities of insects. "Most past work documenting ecological responses to climate change has focused on range shifts of whole species," said Mooney, an associate professor of ecology & evolutionary biology. "In our study, we instead looked at a species characteristic - the population sex ratio. We're discovering that males and females respond to climate change differently and that the pace at which this species characteristic responds to climate change is unprecedentedly fast - about 10 times the average rate that species ranges are moving in response to a changing climate." ### Judith Soule, Amy Iler, Ana Chicas-Mosier and David Inouye of the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory and Tom Miller of Rice University contributed to the study, which received support from the National Science Foundation (grants DEB-1457029 and DEB-1407318). About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 30,000 students and offers 192 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $5 billion annually to the local economy. For more on UCI, visit http://www.uci.edu. Media access: Radio programs/stations may, for a fee, use an on-campus ISDN line to interview UCI faculty and experts, subject to availability and university approval. For more UCI news, visit news.uci.edu. Additional resources for journalists may be found at communications.uci.edu/for-journalists. The stories of immigrants and refugees reflect resilience and sacrifice. As global conflicts force an increase in the numbers of peoples seeking refuge, social workers must respond with support that recognizes the unique experiences of the immigrant and refugee. A new text, "Immigrant and Refugee Children and Families, Culturally Responsive Practice," details the critical issues facing these populations and the ways future social workers can respond to the challenges. The book is edited by Alan Dettlaff, dean and Maconda Brown O'Connor Endowed Dean's Chair of the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work and Rowena Fong, professor at The University of Texas at Austin. "Children in immigrant families represent the fastest growing population in the United States," Dettlaff said. "This book provides new knowledge and strategies to build the capacity of systems serving children and families to address their unique needs." Published by Columbia University Press, the new offering gathers public policy and social work researchers, along with other advocates from around the country, to examine immigrant and refugee populations and the responses from available social service systems, such as juvenile justice, child welfare, education and mental health systems. The book also addresses federal policy and advocacy efforts for immigrants and refugees, while predicting future needs and responses. The book is designed for students studying social work, public policy, ethnic studies and migration populations. It includes examinations about the unique cultural challenges of Latino, South Asian, Asian/Pacific Islander, African and Middle Eastern immigrant and refugee populations. "Given the rapidly changing demographics in the United States, it is critical that 'helping professionals' have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide culturally responsive services to all children and families to ensure positive health and well-being outcomes," he said. "We've assembled leading experts from across disciplines to identify specific strategies that can be used to facilitate positive outcomes for vulnerable children in immigrant and refugee families." ### RESEARCH by a University of Huddersfield scientist could aid the development of new strains of wheat that yield higher quantities of extra-nutritious flour. Professor Grant Campbell is a leading expert in cereal process engineering and is based in the University's School of Applied Sciences. The milling of wheat and the complexities of its kernel are central to his work. Now his latest co-authored article analyses the different breakage characteristics of hard and soft wheats. It has been discovered that in certain strains, an intermediate layer may crumble more readily, so that it becomes easier to separate the hard outer shell of bran from the endosperm - the flour - which can also remain united with an inner layer named aleurone. "Generally speaking, the layers all stick together and become bran. But if we can get the aleurone to stay with the endosperm, then that would increase our quantities of flour - and it is also highly nutritious," said Professor Campbell. More than half of the world's food supply consists of cereals, with wheat for bread the most important in terms of global trade, international relations and the security and affordability of the food supply. This means that although flour milling has already achieved high efficiency, any improvement in yields has the potential to make a massive global impact. Now Professor Campbell's research into the composition of wheat particles has enabled him to develop a mathematical formula that leads to greater understanding of the way that different wheats break up during the milling process. Although millers can gain valuable practical insights from the new discoveries, it is also hoped that plant breeders will adopt Professor Campbell's mathematical equations. This would enable them to breed new wheats that incorporate the crumbly intermediate layer, resulting in higher yields of nutritious flour with exceptional bread-making characteristics. Grant Campbell relocated to the University of Huddersfield - where he is Professor of Chemical Engineering - in 2014. He is leading new teaching programmes in chemical engineering and continuing his long-standing research in cereal process engineering for food and non-food uses. Originally from New Zealand, he came to the UK to study at Cambridge and had a long academic career in Manchester following a period in industry as a food researcher. ### * The article entitled A compositional breakage equation for wheat milling was published in the Journal of Food Engineering. Professor Campbell's co-authors are Silvia P. Galindez-Najera, Prasan Choomjaihan, Cecile Barron and Valerie Lullien-Pellerin. The Center for Vaccine Development (CVD) has been awarded a large grant for research that will help determine why so many children under five are dying in the world's poorest countries. The grant will fund use of an innovative alternative to traditional autopsy known as minimally invasive tissue sampling. The technique, which involves the collection of tissue samples with fine needles, allows researchers to quickly identify the cause of death, and help illuminate ways to save lives and improve the health of children in these vulnerable areas. The grant will support work at CVD's center in Bamako, Mali. It is one of the first three sites to be chosen, joining Soweto, South Africa and Manhica, Mozambique. CVD is part of the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UM SOM). The work is part of a larger effort led by Emory University and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to create a network of up to 25 disease surveillance sites known as the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance network (CHAMPS). The Gates Foundation has committed up to $75 million overall to establish the first six surveillance sites in south Asia and sub-Saharan Africa over the next three years. The program is a long-term project, and is expected to last for 20 years. The lead researchers on the grant are Karen Kotloff, head of the Division of Infectious Disease and Tropical Pediatrics at UM SOM and Samba Sow, director general of CVD-Mali. The problem of child mortality is enormous. In 2015, nearly 6 million children died before reaching their fifth birthday--16,000 every day, most in the poorest countries of the world. A key part of the CHAMPS project is the minimally invasive tissue sampling, which can serve as a substitute for autopsy. When a child dies in the developing world, performing a traditional autopsy is difficult. Often patients die far from a hospital, where there is a shortage of equipment and trained personnel. More importantly, in many cultures autopsies are not accepted, particularly for children, and parents and relatives are not comfortable having them done. Minimally invasive tissue sampling addresses these limitations and concerns. Such sampling is easier to perform, less expensive, and more acceptable culturally: fine needles are inserted into the body, retrieving small amounts of organ tissue, including lung, liver, heart and brain. This tissue is then examined to pinpoint potential causes of death. By establishing cause of death, researchers can better understand which knowledge gaps most need to be addressed, which interventions will save the most lives, and which diseases require a novel approach to prevention and cure. "We are very excited to be part of this important project," said Kotloff. "We think this can really help us understand the causes of child mortality. CVD-Mali has an outstanding track record conducting infectious disease research that directly benefits the health and well-being of Malian citizens. The tremendous support of the Malian government has made this possible. It is our hope that CHAMPS data will facilitate efforts to diminish the unacceptably high child mortality rates in Mali." Kotloff also said that training local medical personnel in Mali and elsewhere will build a medical research infrastructure able to support not only the goals of the CHAMPS study, but also the needs of local health agencies. CVD-Mali is part of the Malian Ministry of Health, and the data from CHAMPS will help the country, Dr. Sow said. "CHAMPS gives us an unprecedented opportunity to uncover information about life-threatening childhood illnesses that can lead to better recognition, prevention, and treatment," he said. ### CHAMPS press release: http://champshealth.org/2016/06/10/community-engagement/ About the University of Maryland School of Medicine The University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 and is the first public medical school in the United States and continues today as an innovative leader in accelerating innovation and discovery in medicine. The School of Medicine is the founding school of the University of Maryland and is an integral part of the 11-campus University System of Maryland. Located on the University of Maryland's Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine works closely with the University of Maryland Medical Center and Medical System to provide a research-intensive, academic and clinically based education. With 43 academic departments, centers and institutes and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians and research scientists plus more than $400 million in extramural funding, the School is regarded as one of the leading biomedical research institutions in the U.S. with top-tier faculty and programs in cancer, brain science, surgery and transplantation, trauma and emergency medicine, vaccine development and human genomics, among other centers of excellence. The School is not only concerned with the health of the citizens of Maryland and the nation, but also has a global presence, with research and treatment facilities in more than 35 countries around the world. http://medschool.umaryland.edu/ About the Center for Vaccine Development The CVD at the University of Maryland School of Medicine works nationally and internationally to prevent disease and save lives through the development and delivery of vaccines. As an academic research center, CVD is engaged in the full range of vaccinology, including basic science research, vaccine development, pre-clinical and clinical evaluation, and post-marketing field studies. http://medschool.umaryland.edu/cvd/ PHILADELPHIA--In a study with potentially major implications for the future treatment of autoimmunity and related conditions, scientists from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania have found a way to remove the subset of antibody-making cells that cause an autoimmune disease, without harming the rest of the immune system. The autoimmune disease the team studied is called pemphigus vulgaris (PV), a condition in which a patient's own immune cells attack a protein called desmoglein-3 (Dsg3) that normally adheres skin cells. Current therapies for autoimmune disease, such as prednisone and rituximab, suppress large parts of the immune system, leaving patients vulnerable to potentially fatal opportunistic infections and cancers. The Penn researchers demonstrated their new technique by successfully treating an otherwise fatal autoimmune disease in a mouse model, without apparent off-target effects, which could harm healthy tissue. The results are published in an online First Release paper in Science. "This is a powerful strategy for targeting just autoimmune cells and sparing the good immune cells that protect us from infection," said co-senior author Aimee S. Payne, MD, PhD, the Albert M. Kligman Associate Professor of Dermatology. Payne and her co-senior author Michael C. Milone, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, adapted the technique from the promising anti-cancer strategy by which T cells are engineered to destroy malignant cells in certain leukemias and lymphomas. "Our study effectively opens up the application of this anti-cancer technology to the treatment of a much wider range of diseases, including autoimmunity and transplant rejection," Milone said. The key element in the new strategy is based on an artificial target-recognizing receptor, called a chimeric antigen receptor, or CAR, which can be engineered into patients' T cells. In human trials, researchers remove some of patients' T cells through a process similar to dialysis and then engineer them in a laboratory to add the gene for the CAR so that the new receptor is expressed in the T cells. The new cells are then multiplied in the lab before re-infusing them into the patient. The T cells use their CAR receptors to bind to molecules on target cells, and the act of binding triggers an internal signal that strongly activates the T cells -- so that they swiftly destroy their targets. The basic CAR T cell concept was first described in the late 1980s, principally as an anti-cancer strategy, but technical challenges delayed its translation into successful therapies. Since 2011, though, experimental CAR T cell treatments for B cell leukemias and lymphomas -- cancers in which patients' healthy B cells turn cancerous -- have been successful in some patients for whom all standard therapies had failed. B cells, which produce antibodies, can also cause autoimmunity. Payne researches autoimmunity, and a few years ago, a postdoctoral researcher in her laboratory, Christoph T. Ellebrecht, MD, took an interest in CAR T cell technology as a potential weapon against B cell-related autoimmune diseases. Soon Payne's lab teamed up with Milone's, which studies CAR T cell technology, in the hope of finding a powerful new way to treat these ailments. "We thought we could adapt this technology that's really good at killing all B cells in the body to target specifically the B cells that make antibodies that cause autoimmune disease," said Milone. "Targeting just the cells that cause autoimmunity has been the ultimate goal for therapy in this field," noted Payne. A more disease-specific receptor In the new study, for which Ellebrecht was first author, the team took aim at pemphigus vulgaris. This condition occurs when a patient's antibodies attack molecules that normally keep skin cells together. When left untreated, PV leads to extensive skin blistering and is almost always fatal, but in recent decades the condition has been treatable with broadly immunosuppressive drugs such as prednisone, mycophenolate mofetil, and rituximab. To treat PV without causing broad immunosuppression, the Penn team designed an artificial CAR-type receptor that would direct patients' T cells to attack only the B cells producing harmful anti-Dsg3 antibodies. The team developed a "chimeric autoantibody receptor," or CAAR, that displays fragments of the autoantigen Dsg3 -- the same fragments to which PV-causing antibodies and their B cells typically bind, as Payne's laboratory and others have shown in prior studies. The artificial receptor acts as a lure for the B cells that target Dsg3, bringing them into fatal contact with the therapeutic T cells. Testing many variants, the team eventually found an artificial receptor design that worked well in cell culture, enabling host T cells to efficiently destroy cells producing antibodies to desmoglein, including those derived from PV patients. The engineered T cells also performed successfully in a mouse model of PV, killing desmoglein-specific B cells and preventing blistering and other manifestations of autoimmunity in the animals. "We were able to show that the treatment killed all the Dsg3-specific B cells, a proof of concept that this approach works," Payne said. T cell therapies can be complicated by many factors. But in these experiments, the Penn scientists' engineered cells maintained their potency despite the presence of anti-Dsg3 antibodies that might have swarmed their artificial receptors. In addition, there were no signs that the engineered T cells caused side effects by hitting the wrong cellular targets in the mice. The team now plans to test their treatment in dogs, which can also develop PV and often die from the disease. "If we can use this technology to cure PV safely in dogs, it would be a breakthrough for veterinary medicine, and would hopefully pave the way for trials of this therapy in human pemphigus patients," Payne said. Also on the horizon for the Penn scientists are applications of CAAR T cell technology for other types of autoimmunity. The immune rejection that complicates organ transplants, and normally requires long-term immunosuppressive drug therapy, may also be treatable with CAAR T cell technology. "If you can identify a specific marker of a B cell that you want to target, then in principle this strategy can work," Payne said. ### Other co-authors of the study include Vijay G. Bhoj, Arben Nace, Eun Jung Choi, Xuming Mao, Michael Jeffrey Cho, John T. Seykora, and George Cotsarelis, all of Penn; Giovanni Di Zenzo of the Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata in Rome; and Antonio Lanzavecchia of the Institute for Research in Biomedicine in Bellinzona, Switzerland. Funding was provided in part by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (R01-AR057001, R01-AR068288, T32-AR007465, F31-AR066456, R01-AR055309, P30-AR057217), Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (CTE, EL711/1-1), the National Cancer Institute (T32-CA009140), the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (K12-HL087064), and the Italian Ministry of Health (RF10-2309790). Penn Medicine is one of the world's leading academic medical centers, dedicated to the related missions of medical education, biomedical research, and excellence in patient care. Penn Medicine consists of the Raymond and Ruth Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (founded in 1765 as the nation's first medical school) and the University of Pennsylvania Health System, which together form a $5.3 billion enterprise. The Perelman School of Medicine has been ranked among the top five medical schools in the United States for the past 18 years, according to U.S. News & World Report's survey of research-oriented medical schools. The School is consistently among the nation's top recipients of funding from the National Institutes of Health, with $373 million awarded in the 2015 fiscal year. The University of Pennsylvania Health System's patient care facilities include: The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Penn Presbyterian Medical Center -- which are recognized as one of the nation's top "Honor Roll" hospitals by U.S. News & World Report -- Chester County Hospital; Lancaster General Health; Penn Wissahickon Hospice; and Pennsylvania Hospital -- the nation's first hospital, founded in 1751. Additional affiliated inpatient care facilities and services throughout the Philadelphia region include Chestnut Hill Hospital and Good Shepherd Penn Partners, a partnership between Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network and Penn Medicine. Penn Medicine is committed to improving lives and health through a variety of community-based programs and activities. In fiscal year 2015, Penn Medicine provided $253.3 million to benefit our community. Novel function uncovered for the C9orf72 protein that is linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia New insight into the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia Novel function uncovered for the C9orf72 protein that is linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) Groundbreaking research could pave the way to for potential future drug development Scientists from the University of Sheffield have discovered a novel function of the C9orf72 protein which is linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) - giving a new insight into the most common genetic cause of the degenerative diseases. The pioneering study, conducted by researchers from the world-leading Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), found that the C9orf72 protein, which is encoded by the C9ORF72 gene, functions in the autophagy pathway - something which is defective in patients with the most common inherited form of ALS and FTD. Mutations in the C9ORF72 gene carry a well-established risk for ALS, also known as motor neurone disease (MND), and FTD which is the second most common cause of dementia in people under 65. However, until now the basis for this link has been unclear. Scientists believe one of the ways the C9ORF72 mutation may cause ALS and FTD is by reducing the amount of C9orf72 protein present in the cells - something which is very hard to verify without a clear understanding of the function of the C9orf72 protein. The Sheffield team led by Dr Kurt De Vos and Dr Andy Grierson investigated the role of the C9orf72 protein in nerve cells and found it regulates the initiation of a vital process called 'autophagy', which helps the cell to dispose of damaged proteins and cell parts, and recycles cell nutrients. Dr De Vos said: "Our study provides compelling evidence that the C9orf72 protein is required for the initiation of autophagy, a pathway essential for the survival of nerve cells. "We could also show that that loss of C9orf72 protein function mimics the specific pathology observed in our ALS and FTD patients." Dr Andy Grierson, fellow lead investigator, added: "Diseases such as ALS and FTD are commonly associated with large protein clumps that accumulate in affected nerve cells. Our data now shows that the C9orf72 protein is involved in the cellular pathway that should dispose of these clumps and that the autophagy process is defective in the cells of our ALS and FTD patients. "Further studies are needed to confirm if defective autophagy contributes to the disease process, but if this bears out then autophagy drugs may be beneficial for patients." The pioneering study, published in the EMBO Journal was supported by the Thierry Latran Foundation, Medical Research Council (MRC), MND Association, Alzheimer's Society, European Union and the University of Sheffield Moody Endowment Fund. Dr Valerie de Broglie, Director of the Thierry Latran Foundation, said: "We are pleased to see the positive outcome of the research selected by our European Scientific Advisory Board. Better understandings of pathways involved in ALS are of upmost importance to move towards a therapy." Dr Doug Brown, Director of Research at Alzheimer's Society, said: "Frontotemporal dementia is the second most common form of dementia in those under the age of 65, and can include some upsetting symptoms, yet we know relatively little about its underlying causes. "This study reveals what happens in the brain cells of people with a gene mutation that is known to cause frontotemporal dementia. Identifying the effects of faulty genes is a vital first step to being able to design drugs that could best help people living with the condition. The gene, known as C9ORF72, was only linked to dementia in the last five years so it's encouraging that advances are being made to piece together the important role it plays in the brain." Dr Sadie Vile, Research Grants Manager at the MND Association, added: "Although only about 10 per cent of MND cases are inherited, study of the genetic causes helps to understand the non-inherited or sporadic forms. The C9ORF72 gene was identified in 2011 as the most common cause (about 40 per cent) of all inherited MND. "The autophagy process has been linked to other MND-causing genes, so it is interesting that evidence is now building up to connect this important cellular process to the C9orf72 protein. We are very proud that Emma Smith, one of our MND Association PhD students, has played a key role in this important piece of research." ### Additional information Reference: Webster CP, Smith EF et al (2016) 'The C9orf72 protein interacts with Rab1a and the ULK1 complex to regulate initiation of autophagy'. EMBO Journal. DOI: 10.15252/embj.201694401 http://emboj.embopress.org/content/early/2016/06/22/embj.201694401 The Thierry Latran Foundation The Thierry Latran Foundation is a non-profit organization set up under the aegis of Foundation de France. It is the first and sole pan European research foundation dedicated to ALS research with the aim to contribute to the development of a therapy for ALS. To this end, the Foundation has two goals: to establish a European ALS research community and to fund excellent research projects. Since its inception in 2009, the Foundation has funded 46 projects to a total of 6.2 million Euros, and has organized seven annual meetings to monitor on-going projects and promote collaborations. To find out more please visit: http://www.fondation-thierry-latran.org Alzheimer's Society Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading dementia support and research charity. 850,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to two million people by 2051. Alzheimer's Society funds research into the cause, care, cure and prevention of all types of dementia and has committed to spend at least 150 million on research over the next decade. For more information please visit: http://www.alzheimers.org.uk The Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association The Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focused on MND care, research and campaigning. Motor neuron disease (MND) is a fatal, rapidly progressing disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It attacks the nerves that control movement so muscles no longer work. MND does not usually affect the senses (sight, sound and feeling). It can leave people locked in a failing body, unable to move, talk and eventually breathe. Some people may experience changes in thinking and behaviour, with a proportion experiencing a rare form of dementia (FTD). It kills a third of people within a year and more than half within two years of diagnosis. Six people per day are diagnosed with MND in the UK. There is no cure. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of MND, with both upper and lower motor neuron involvement. For more information see http://www.mndassociation.org The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN) SITraN is a world-leading centre for research into neurodegenerative diseases including motor neurone disease (MND/ALS), Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. The purpose-built facility uniquely allows the multidisciplinary collaboration of clinicians, scientists and health professionals to develop new treatments for the benefit of patients. To find out more visit http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/sitran/ The University of Sheffield With almost 27,000 of the brightest students from over 140 countries, learning alongside over 1,200 of the best academics from across the globe, the University of Sheffield is one of the world's leading universities. A member of the UK's prestigious Russell Group of leading research-led institutions, Sheffield offers world-class teaching and research excellence across a wide range of disciplines. Unified by the power of discovery and understanding, staff and students at the university are committed to finding new ways to transform the world we live in. Sheffield is the only university to feature in The Sunday Times 100 Best Not-For-Profit Organisations to Work For 2016 and was voted number one university in the UK for Student Satisfaction by Times Higher Education in 2014. In the last decade it has won four Queen's Anniversary Prizes in recognition of the outstanding contribution to the United Kingdom's intellectual, economic, cultural and social life. Sheffield has five Nobel Prize winners among former staff and students and its alumni go on to hold positions of great responsibility and influence all over the world, making significant contributions in their chosen fields. Global research partners and clients include Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Unilever, AstraZeneca, Glaxo SmithKline, Siemens and Airbus, as well as many UK and overseas government agencies and charitable foundations. For further information, please visit http://www.sheffield.ac.uk For further information please contact: Amy Pullan, Media Relations Officer, University of Sheffield, 0114 222 9859, a.l.pullan@sheffield.ac.uk To read other news releases about the University of Sheffield, visit http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news How much liability do website owners and other online service providers have for content posted by other people? If someone posts content on your website that is defamatory, constitutes hate speech, disseminates child pornography or invades someone's privacy, are you liable? The answers to such questions can be murky in developing countries. And as internet use expands around the globe, so does the potential liability for the owners of websites, search engines, social media sites and other online platforms, who are subject to laws in each country where their websites and services are accessible. "As sites such as Instagram and Snapchat have exploded in the number of photos and videos and other information posted, this problem has exponentially increased," said Sean O'Connor, director of the University of Washington's Center for Advanced Study and Research on Innovation Policy (CASRIP). "Each of those platforms has this potential liability hanging out there, with the firehose of content that's being posted every day." To advance understanding of the issue, CASRIP recently commissioned and released a series of reports on the liability facing these kinds of online service providers as "internet intermediaries," or entities that facilitate online use. Many of these intermediaries provide platforms where content can be posted by users; the most well-known include Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram. But the problem also affects search engines, blogs, network operators and even comments sections on websites and blogs. The 16 reports focus on laws concerning hate speech, privacy, child protection and defamation in five countries -- Brazil, Russia, India, China and Thailand -- that have research ties to the UW and are becoming increasingly important players in the internet liability landscape. The reports detail differences in laws and social norms among the countries. Penalties can range from fines to suspension of business activities, criminal charges and even imprisonment. In Russia, for example, internet service providers are required to block websites containing information about mass riots or extremist activities; a government "blacklist" of those sites totaled more than 17,500 in November 2015. The report on India cites a study which found that more than three-quarters of Indian parents were unaware of software available to protect children online, and half of parents in Delhi allowed their children to spend more than 10 hours a day online. The project, which received funding from Google, was carried out over a few years and involved authors, scholars and students in the five countries. Anna Bakhmetyeva, CASRIP's program manager, said the reports show that all the countries studied -- despite the sometimes strict penalties their laws carry -- are striving for a balance between control over internet content and the free flow of information. "All of the countries want to protect freedom of speech. They want to protect social media and the dissemination of information, but at the same time impose some limitations to protect people's rights," said Bakhmetyeva. "But the question is, can they achieve this balance or not?" Among the reports' most positive findings, Bakhmetyeva said, is that the five countries generally do not hold internet intermediaries liable for unlawful content posted by users unless they knew about the content and failed to remove it. Most countries usually grant online service providers immunity, referred to as "safe harbor," provided they comply with certain rules and remove problematic content quickly. The reports cite a case in Brazil which concluded that holding an online provider liable "would be the same as holding the post offices liable for written crimes on letters, which would be unreasonable." At the same time, Bakhmetyeva said, some websites have become known havens for criminal or offensive material. Governments must be careful to balance protections for intermediaries with enforcement against sites that ignore or even encourage hateful and other problematic content, she said. Internet intermediary liability has become an issue of heightened focused in recent years, as governments worldwide increasingly expect internet companies to police illegal and other problematic content, and in some cases are holding them legally accountable for doing so. Consequently, O'Connor said, internet companies -- particular those with large numbers of users posting content -- have a tremendous amount at stake in determining their potential liability. "Penalties in some countries are quite severe," said O'Connor, the Boeing International Professor in the UW law school. "Individuals could potentially go to jail. So this is of great concern to anyone operating in the online space. "If people understand the stakes, they should be keenly interested in what's going on in these reports." ### Ryan Calo, a faculty director for CASRIP and a UW assistant professor of law, was also involved in the project. UW law students Tyler R. Quillin, Jayme Staten, Christian Kaiser, Harrison Owens, Zachary Parsons and Jason E. Parfet conducted research and helped edit the reports. For more information, contact O'Connor at soconnor@uw.edu or 206-543-7491, or Bakhmetyeva at annaba@uw.edu or 206-221-7110. French president Francois Hollande The vote to leave makes it more likely the remaining EU member states will vote to give the European Central Bank the authority it needs to force the clearing and settlement of euro-denominated trading into the eurozone, possibly even before the UK leaves the EU, say analysts. French president Francois Hollande was emphatic on Tuesday, saying: The City, which could make its clearing operations in euro, wont be able to do so any more. Such a development would be an opportunity cost for London. Clearing is in place for FX futures and despite the absence of regulatory mandates, voluntary clearing of non-deliverable forwards is also taking place and options clearing is expected to reach the table later this year. Basel III requirements to pay and collect margin on uncleared derivatives and set aside more capital for derivatives positions will add further impetus to clearing. Source: Global Financial Centres Index, Z/Yen Group The latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) does not make particularly healthy reading for Paris and Frankfurt, the two cities perceived as most likely to take FX business from London. Paris is ranked a lowly 32nd, while Frankfurt is 18th a fall of four places from the previous index. Despite Zurich, Luxembourg and Geneva all scoring higher than Frankfurt, and Munich also coming in ahead of the French capital, Open Europe co-director Raoul Ruparel accepts that based on infrastructure and labour supply Paris and Frankfurt are the obvious beneficiaries of any FX flight from London. The role of clearing houses in any relocation decision should not be underestimated, he says. Deutsche Borse is headquartered in Frankfurt and LCH.Clearnet has a clearing house in Paris. This is clearly an advantage for these French and German cities, given the investment required to create a clearing platform and the relatively modest returns. For example, LCHs FX clearing service calculates margin requirements 24 hours a day and undertakes the risk netting and settlement of trades on maturity. Yet it made a profit of just 10 million on its FX clearing activity last year compared with group operating expenses of 335 million. The French government has made overtures to City-based firms, but Ruparel says it is unclear to what extent it would incentivize FX banks to cross the English channel. Culturally and socially, France has taken a different approach to the UK in relation to this type of business in recent years and it remains to be seen whether they have the appetite to offer tax incentives, he says. Lifestyle and talent Ruparel also acknowledges that alternative locations will have to offer an attractive lifestyle to persuade traders to move from London and that availability of talent to plug any gaps is an additional consideration. London has large numbers of graduates from high-quality universities who have studied finance, business, politics and economics, and are looking for jobs in the City. Other cities would have to rely more on people relocating. Hakan Enver, Morgan McKinley Hakan Enver, operations director at Morgan McKinley, observes that moving FX operations is not a straightforward process and entails substantial costs and risks, for example finding new talent to replace those who choose not to move. He says that based on his conversations with UK-based bankers, neither Paris nor Frankfurt has the same appeal as London. There not only has to be a tax incentive for employees to benefit, it is equally important to recognise that the new location has to be one that is culturally accepting, he explains. Citizens of other European countries working in London may feel differently, but if you asked a group of British bankers whether they would move from London to Paris, patriotism would nudge them towards staying in the UK. Ashurst partner James Coiley agrees that trading banks are likely to move business to cities where they already have infrastructure. Rather than an aggregating effect, Brexit is likely to lead to dispersal of FX business across multiple locations in the short term, which would favour Luxembourg and Dublin over Paris and Frankfurt, he says. The attitude of local regulators might also influence the spread of FX business Ireland in particular has made it clear it is open for business post-Brexit although Dublin barely scrapes into the top 40 European cities on the GFCI. There are other factors that will limit the ability of European cities to pick up the slack from London, including personal tax regimes, where Paris might be at a disadvantage to other centres, adds Coiley. Politics will also have an impact, he says. Making overtures to FX banks and traders to relocate to Paris may not play well with supporters of the socialist French government. Additionally, France has been the most enthusiastic advocate of the proposed financial transaction tax, which research by Oliver Wyman suggests could increase FX transaction costs by a factor of 18. Gregor Irwin, chief economist at Global Counsel, a strategic advisory firm, says FX business that leaves London is most likely to go to Frankfurt or Paris for reasons of scale and that other European financial centres would struggle to compete. In practice, we are likely to see competition between the two, with one of them likely to emerge over time as the winner, he says. On the question of whether a delayed Brexit will have any impact on the volume of FX business that might leave the UK, Open Europes Ruparel observes that firms will be wary of making rash decisions. Overall, the FX community would be leaning towards a slower, drawn-out process, but once there is clarity on the likely future relationship between the UK and EU, they will react quickly, he says. That would have to be the rational response to it, which has been almost pure derision, much of it quite amusing. As Mollie Hemingway at The Federalist says: There's hope for humanity RT @TJBreen: I genuinely cannot find any takes on #Rationalia that don't consist of brutal mockery. Mollie (@MZHemingway) June 29, 2016 Agreed. Other highlights: In actual #Rationalia, nobody comes up with creepy fascist ideas like "Rationalia" David Burge (@iowahawkblog) June 29, 2016 #Rationalia this has potential as a gulag for nerds Harambe_of_Snarth (@BenghaziExpert) June 29, 2016 I feel like there's going to be way too much D&D in #Rationalia Happy Li'l Tree (@karengeier) June 29, 2016 #Rationalia is what Russian citizens used to call Soviet Russia under Stalin https://t.co/R8q7nNMttC actionboss (@ActionB0SS) June 29, 2016 Imagine proposing #Rationalia when phrenology and eugenics were mainstream! Death warrants aplenty! Kelsey D. Atherton (@AthertonKD) June 29, 2016 #Rationalia is quite a movement. Twelve citizens, including a duplicate. https://t.co/ShOgXTYbfs Jeryl Bier (@JerylBier) June 29, 2016 Half our people starved because I forgot to carry the two! Just another beautiful day in #Rationalia! https://t.co/9Zl5uLg6Hu CastletonSnob (@GarbageApe) June 29, 2016 @neiltyson "And based on #Rationalia law 246-2, 'survival of the fittest', all underperforming individuals will be killed." Love it Neal. Stephen DeAugustino (@DeAugieDogie) June 29, 2016 "Earth needs #Rationalia, with a one-line Constitution: Give me power, because I'm smarter than you." Leninhttps://t.co/AAaODqOGH6 Ben Shapiro (@benshapiro) June 29, 2016 Just got back from #Rationalia. Was having a lovely conversation in Welsh with a woman wearing a niqab. But the police promptly killed her. Michael B Dougherty (@michaelbd) June 29, 2016 Follow the conversation about Neil deGrasse Tysons brilliant idea at Twitter. This may be the feel good story of the day. Photo credit: Pop Culture Geek [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons. When Derek DePasture joined BluePearl Veterinary Partners as a senior network engineer in October 2014, the company had about 27 locations and 1,300 employees around the country. Within 12 months, those numbers had grown to 56 locations and almost 3,500 employees. The fast-growing chain of emergency and specialty veterinary hospitals had a hub-and-spoke model for its IT infrastructureall of it being run by about a dozen IT professionals, according to DePasture. As weve grown, weve kept a very lean [IT] staff, he told eWEEK. Several years ago, company officials decided to shift from the hub-and-spoke model to a centralized data center and went looking for the technology theyd need to make the move. The old infrastructure was based on Dells PowerEdge VRTX converged offering, with integrated compute, storage, networking and management software configured to serve branch and remote offices. VRTX is a good product, but it couldnt scale the way BluePearl needed, DePasture said. Among the products IT officials investigated was Cisco Systems Unified Compute System (UCS) Mini converged infrastructure system. However, at about the same time, Cisco announced HyperFlex, the networking vendors addition to the quickly expanding hyperconverged infrastructure market that was announced in March in conjunction with software partner SpringPath. HyperFlex comprises Ciscos UCS servers and software-defined storage (SDS) technology created with SpringPath, a startup that Cisco has invested in. It also leverages Ciscos Nexus switches to help create an integrated networking fabric and UCS Manager software. For DePasture and his colleagues at BluePearl, HyperFlex addresses the companys technical and financial needs. Its a product that is easy to deploy and manage. It can scale as the business demands grow. At the same time, the company wont have to increase its IT department or bring on specialists in such areas as storage-area networks (SANs) or VMware. Its going to allow us to maintain the level of our IT staff, he said, noting that management of the infrastructure is done through a single pane of glass. The scalability is easy and set up is very easyand as a systems administrator, thats very important. I dont want to spend four hours in the data center setting up servers. We can scale as needed. From Converged to Hyperconverged The hyperconverged infrastructure space grew out of the push by OEMs that started five or more years ago to offer converged systems that pre-integrated systems with computing hardware, disk storage, networking gear and systems management software. The goal has been to give organizations data center systems that are easy to deploy, manage and scale, are cost effective and are virtualized. Hyperconverged infrastructure began hitting the scene in 2014, with a key difference being that they combine storage and compute functionality into a single, highly virtualized server-based solution. Top-tier systems makers over the past couple of years have been building out their hyperconverged portfolios, often in partnership with the growing number of vendorssuch as VMware as well as newer players like Nutanix and SimpliVitythat sell software for hyperconverged environments. Smaller appliance makers like Pivot3 also are making a push into the space. The hyperconverged segment is now the fastest growing segment in the larger converged infrastructure market, according to IDC analysts. In the first quarter, while the overall converged infrastructure space grew 11 percent year-over-year to $2.5 billion, the hyperconverged segment jumped 148 percent, to $371.9 million. In 2015, hyperconverged infrastructure was a $981.91 million market, according to IDC Research Director Eric Sheppard. By 2019, it is expected to increase to more than $4.7 billion. Gartner analysts expect the space to reach $2 billion this year, and almost $5 billion by 2019. It comes at a time when organizations are seeing the complexity and cost of their data centers increase, driven by such trends as mobility, data analytics, the proliferation of mobile devices, the growing adoption of virtualization and the cloud. Theyre looking for ways to reduce their capital and operation costs, to bring more scalability and flexibility to their infrastructures and to make it easier to deploy and manage their environments. At the same time, these businesses also want to transform their IT departments, moving away from groups of IT specialists to staffing their data centers with generalists. The value of hyperconvergence to the customer is simplicity, Radhika Krishnan, executive director and general manager of Lenovos Converged/Hyperconverged and Networking business unit, told eWEEK. Hyperconverged infrastructures also give businesses the benefits of a cloud environment without having to go to a public cloud, allowing the strong management and security working within their own environments, according to Todd Brannon, director of product marketing for UCS at Cisco. Hyperconverged Systems Show Promise in Reducing Data Center Complexity Whats really attracting them to this [hyperconvergence] model is the cloud-type consumption model, Brannon told eWEEK. Its a cloud model, but on-premises. Hyperconverged systems are tightly integrated offerings that include networking, virtualization and a single management plane along with the single solution for compute and storage. They remove many of the silos typically found in data centers. The hyperconverged space was initially embraced by midmarket customers, and while enterprises increasingly are adopting the infrastructure, the majority of the business right now remains in the midmarket, IDCs Sheppard said. Gina Longoria, an analyst with Moor Insights and Strategy, told eWEEK that hyperconverged infrastructures bring greater efficiencies, ease of use and cost savings to midmarket businesses that are looking for ways to keep up with changing data center demands without having to add IT staff or a lot of new equipment. Its the quickest path on the market to get up and running on a new workload, Longoria said. It really makes it simple for people. However, vendors say they are seeing strong enterprise adoption. Officials with Simplivity point to a recent report the company released that showed that when compared with Amazon Web Services (AWS), its HyperConverged Infrastructure software delivers 22 percent to 49 percent in cost savings. SimpliVity officials have announced a multi-million dollar deal to replace legacy IT equipment for a financial services firm in the global Fortune 50. In addition, Howard Ting, chief marketing officer at Nutanix, said his company has more than 3,100 customers, including a number of the Global 2000 companies. We feel that were just scratching the surface of the opportunity, Ting told eWEEK. Today, [hyperconverged infrastructure] is in the top three to five things IT organizations are talking about and budgeting for. Its become mainstream very, very quickly. A recent study by the Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA) and IT technology analyst firm the Evaluator Group reflected the growing enterprise interest. According to the study, 47 percent of enterprises surveyedbusinesses with more than 1,000 employeeswere using or evaluating hyperconverged offerings for infrastructure consolidation efforts and 42 percent are doing so for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) efforts. Common uses of hyperconverged infrastructures include VDI, server virtualization and consolidation, data protection, test and development and to serve large remote and branch offices, according to vendors and analysts. However, many expect the number of use cases to grow as adoption of these systems increase. A Lot of Options to Choose From Customers have plenty of options when looking for hyperconverged infrastructure offerings. Dell has partnered with Nutanix in the development of its XC Series appliances and in April Dell officials not only announced the company was building out its XC Series with new solutions, but also introduced a reference architecture that integrates technologies from VMware. Dell also said it was reselling hyperconverged systems from VCE, EMCs converged platform business. The company already sells systems that include VMwares VSAN software. The moves not only expanded Dells portfolio, but also gave the industry a glimpse of what it may be able to do once it completes its $67 billion acquisition of EMC and its federated businesses, including VMware and VCE. EMC sells VxRail and VxRack hyperconverged systems that use VMwares vSAN and its own ScaleIO storage software. Lenovo, armed with IBMs x86 server business, also is partnering with Nutanix as well as Juniper Networks to build out a hyperconverged infrastructure business. The companys Converged HX Series integrates Nutanixs software onto its servers to bring compute and storage resources into a single shared, virtual infrastructure that officials said can be used by every size of business from enterprises to SMBs. Ciscos HyperFlex HX-Series uses the companys own UCS systems and Nexus switches along with the software-defined storage (SDS) platform developed in conjunction with SpringPath. Hitachi Data Systems this month rolled out its first hyperconverged product, the Unified Compute Platform (UCP) HC V240, which includes Hitachi servers and storage software. The package also is certified for VMwares VSAN Ready Node platform and runs the virtualization vendors HyperConverged Software stack. Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is looking to leverage their own technologies in developing their hyperconverged offerings. HPE offers its ConvergedSystem 250-HC StoreVirtual appliances that use its ProLiant Apollo Gen9 servers. In March, it announced the HC 380, which runs its StoreVirtual VSA storage software on its ProLiant 380 systems. The HC 380 is primarily aimed at the midmarket and enterprise branch offices. However, with hyperconverged solutions, software is the critical element, Moor Insights Longoria said. You need some type of software layer on top of it to make it come together. Hyperconverged Systems Show Promise in Reducing Data Center Complexity Nutanixs Ting said its the software that pools the nodes of a cluster, brings resilience and intelligence to the solutions and that drives the SDS capabilities critical for hyperconverged infrastructures. All that magic is in the software stack, he said. Nutanix in recent weeks has been pushing to broaden its reach in the industry. In May, the company unveiled its Xpress management software, which is designed to bring the capabilities of its Enterprise Cloud software to a price point for SMBs. A month later, Nutanix officials introduced a new offering that they said will transform the company from one that sells software into the hyperconverged space to one that provides a platform for the entire data center. Software is important, Lenovos Krishnan said, but the hardware vendor also plays a key role in developing the platform that the hardware runs on and offering services and support for those products. That is why partnerships like the one between Lenovo and Nutanix is important. This is complex technology, she said. This is not something you can do in just six months. You dont want to buy a white box and just put Nutanix on top of it. Longoria said that despite the fast growth in the market, hyperconverged infrastructure vendors face challenges. One will be differentiating their products from those of their competitors. The hardware is similar and with Nutanix and VMware working with multiple OEMs, many are carrying the same software. System vendors will be able to sell into their own customer base, but for a new customer OEM acquisition, it becomes very hard to determine which software stack and which hardware partner you want to go with, she said. To me, theres not a lot of good answers yet. Right now, I see everything being a sort of me-too offering. Road to Composable Infrastructure? Going forward, there also are questions about whether hyperconverged systems are a destination or a step along the path to composable infrastructure, where data center resourcescompute, storage and network fabricare pooled and treated like services. Organizations no longer have to configure hardware to run particular applications. Instead, its the applicationsusing policies and APIsthat automatically and dynamically provision and deploy the infrastructure resources they need. Some vendors already are moving into the composable space. For example, Cisco offers the UCS M-Series modular servers and UCS C3260 rack server, both of which company officials said are based on a disaggregated system architecture handled by the companys UCS Manager software. For its part, HPE in December 2015 unveiled its Synergy platform, an architecture that ensures the exact amount of data center resources can be rapidly pulled together from a single resource pool to support an application and then returned to the pool when theyre no longer needed. Synergy is being used by about 100 pre-release customers now, but will become generally available later this year, according to Paul Miller, vice president of marketing at HPE. For smaller companies and midmarket customers, hyperconverged infrastructures will address most of their needs. For enterprises, its a stepping stone to composable, Miller said. Both IDCs Sheppard and Moor Insights Longoria see a similar pattern, with enterprises making the move to composable infrastructure ahead of their smaller counterparts. Hyperconverged has interesting capabilities right now, where composable infrastructure is not really mainstream right now, Longoria said. But I think maybe OEMs see [hyperconverged] as a step to composable infrastructure. There will be an interesting market transition point in the next two to four years. BluePearl Makes the Move For now at least, BluePearl Veterinary Partners is happy with the hyperconverged infrastructure technology supplied by Cisco and its HyperFlex offering. According to DePasture, the companys senior network engineer, the company has deployed three HyperFlex systemsincluding the first one to roll off the Cisco production lineand is awaiting a fourth to be plugged into the environment. Company officials wanted an infrastructure that would enable BluePearl to run mission-critical applications and move patient informationsuch as diagnostic imagingto any of their locations and that could scale. The result has been more effective and standardized veterinary care and an infrastructure that can support 100 percent annual growth at the company. BluePearl also has been able to reduce deployment and operational costs. The move from VRTX to HyperFlex was a good decision, DePasture said. HyperFlex was comparable [in cost], but with everything that comes with it, we decided to make the change, he said. Things have started heating up after cab-aggregator Ola filed an affidavit before the Karnataka High Court on June 27 accusing rival Uber of flouting the rules, and roping in white board (non-passenger) vehicles to offer taxi services Things have started heating up after cab-aggregator Ola filed an affidavit before the Karnataka High Court on June 27 accusing rival Uber of flouting the rules, and roping in white board (non-passenger) vehicles to offer taxi services. Uber, the affidavit said, has demonstrated "a complete lack of business ethic and has scant respect and concernfor the law of the land. Ola received its license from the Government of Karnataka to operate in the state just last week. With this Ola has become Indias first licensed cab aggregator According to media reports Olas statement comes at a time when the Karnataka court is separately hearing Ubers plea seeking amendments to the states policies on mandatory taxi signs on vehicles, physical meters, and printers for receipts, among other things. It has been trying to create problems for the US-based Uber by accusing the same of offering private vehicles, those with no valid contract carriage permit to user-riders on its platform under the guise of carpooling. Referring to itself as an indigenous start-up Ola called Uber's petition challenging the April 2 regulations of Karnataka as "motivated", and filed in an attempt to "bypass the laws of the land by foreign companies who run their operations in this country for profit without due regard for the applicable laws." Responding to the allegations, Uber hit back with a lengthy blog by Bhavik Rathod, General Manager at Uber Bangalore, pointing out that they are baseless and are being levelled to confound and complicate matters. It took a nationalistic turn when it posed the question What makes Uber foreign? The fact that we are established in San Francisco but have a hyper-local team solving problems that are locally relevant. Or that, just like our competitors, we received most of our funding from foreign investors. He projected Uber as a global company with local roots. It even picked up on the bypassing laws allegation its competitor made against Uber. Its not about bypassing laws of the land but its about building for tomorrow by participating today - so we dont stifle the innovations that is surely coming to us tomorrow. At Uber, we believe in celebrating cities - each of the city that we build ground up, every decision taken with the best interest of our riders, drivers and cities in mind. In this safety is paramount and our technology makes it possible to focus on safety for riders and drivers before, during, and after every trip in ways that were not possible before smartphones. The two companies are fighting for dominance in Karnataka because its capital city, Bengaluru, has a large number of customers for ride-hailing services. Read more news about (marketing news, latest marketing news,internet marketing, marketing India, digital marketing India, media marketing India, advertising news) The GBP NZD exchange rate edged higher on Thursday as market sentiment turned neutral. The British pound vs New Zealand dollar exchange rate has slumped as foreign exchange markets close for the weekend. Of particular note has been the fact that Chancellor George Osborne has dropped any pretence of meeting a 2020 budget surplus after Brexit. This face has only further dampened confidence in the sterling exchange rates going ahead. As the latest Chinese Manufacturing PMI narrowly avoided slipping into contraction territory, instead stagnating at a neutral 50.0, the appeal of commodity-correlated currencies such as the New Zealand and Australian dollars improved on Friday morning. With demand for the Pound still severely muted this saw the GBP/NZD exchange rate sliding further ahead of the weekend, lacking anything in the way of support. The British pound failed to maintain its gains over the course of the day, on account of immense instability from the Conservative leadership campaigns and the shock talk of UK interest rate cuts as soon as August.. Although former London Mayor Boris Johnson was hotly tipped for entering the contest, his shock backing out sent the Pound rising before a sharp fall took over. Although commodities and global stocks continue to rise, market sentiment turned neutral as safe-haven assets found support amid uncertainty regarding the fallout from Brexit. The GBP NZD exchange rate edged higher as the Brexit selloff continues to ease. However, the UKs political upheaval is predicted to weigh on Sterling gains as inter-party divides add to trader uncertainties. Below are the latest FX rates: On Thursday the Pound to British Pound exchange rate (GBP/GBP) converts at 1 FX markets see the pound vs pound exchange rate converting at 1. The live inter-bank GBP-USD spot rate is quoted as 1.161 today. At time of writing the pound to australian dollar exchange rate is quoted at 1.786. Please note: the FX rates above, updated 27th Oct 2022, will have a commission applied by your typical high street bank. Currency brokers specialise in these type of foreign currency transactions and can save you up to 5% on international payments compared to the banks. Pound Sterling (GBP) Exchange Rates Continue to Edge Higher ahead of BoEs Carney Speech The political landscape in the UK is swiftly becoming unrecognisable as inter-party divisions widened following the UKs vote to leave the European Union. With Tory candidates putting themselves forward to replace recently resigned Prime Minister David Cameron, however, trader concerns have eased amid hopes the transition will be swift. Until a leader emerges and triggers Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, however, uncertainty will continue to dampen investor confidence. Despite all this, Sterling continues to appreciate thanks to a relief rally following the huge losses in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit vote. NZD Exchange Rates Cool from Recent Highs amid Overvaluation Concerns Over the past few days the New Zealand Dollar advanced versus many of its peers after a return to risk-on trade. However, this prompted concerns that the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) will be forced into easing policy at the next available opportunity. According to BNZ, the New Zealand Dollar is unlikely to be hugely impacted by Brexit given its loose ties with the UK. For New Zealand we expect the economic impacts of Brexit to be limited (but most likely negative for meat exports and tourism operators at the margin). Note that New Zealands goods exports to the United Kingdom (predominantly sheep-meat and wine) comprise 3.5% of total. Imports from the UK (mainly transport goods) make up just 2.7% of the aggregate. Short-term visitor arrivals from the UK represent 6.5% of overall arrivals. This highlights that New Zealands ties to Britain are dramatically less than they were back in the early 1970s, when the United Kingdoms joining of the EEC (as EU took the form of back then) was a major ruction for New Zealand. New Zealand has, over the intervening decades, moved on, to be now increasingly integrated to the Asia Pacific region. Mexican citizens will soon be able to travel to Canada without a visa as part of a plan to boost visitor numbers, job prospects and trade.The Government of Canada has announced that it has made it a top priority to re-establish and strengthen its relationship with Mexico, which is described as one of the countrys most important partners. The intention to remove the need for visas from December 2016 was announced by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after a two-day State visit to Canada by Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.He said that lifting the visa requirement will deepen the ties between Canada and Mexico and will increase the flow of travellers, ideas, and business between both countries.Canada and Mexico both understand the importance of having a productive and respective relationship, one that allows for greater trade, stronger growth, and more job creation, he explained.Canada is pleased to deliver on the governments commitment to lift the visa requirement for Mexican nationals. We look forward to the social and economic benefits that lifting the visa requirement will bring to both countries, especially to the middle class here in Canada, he added.Canadian officials are currently working with their Mexican counterparts on final details to ensure a successful visa lift. This includes expanding existing collaboration and cooperation on migration issues with the goal of ensuring that the benefits of the visa lift are fully maximized by both countries.Until 30 November 2016, the visa requirement is still in place for Mexico. Additional information will be provided to Mexican citizens in advance of the visa lift, so that they can experience a seamless transition to visa free travel.The visa requirement was imposed by Canada in 2009 in an attempt to stem a large number of what were regarded as false refugee claims. However, according to Canadian government figures Mexican asylum bids have fallen from a peak in 2008 when Mexicans accounted for one in four refugee claims to below 1%.Mexico, meanwhile, has agreed to remove barriers to Canadian beef imports imposed after a 2003 outbreak of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). Although the majority of beef exports go to the United States there is a growing demand for Canadian beef among Mexicos growing middle classes and top restaurants. Hello everyone, I apologize if I can find this information somewhere else on this forum. However, I have tried my hardest to find information regarding what it's currently like to live in the al reef villas. All I can seem to find is what it was like 2 or 3 years ago. I am interested to know the following: what are the amenities like, what grocery stores are nearby, if it's very isolated from the city and activities, etc. My family is moving to Abu Dhabi in the next few months, and I am currently looking at either Al Reef (for cost) and Al Forsan Village in Khalifa City A (although the villas are about 30,000 aed more per year). I would love to save the money and live in Al reef, but Al forsan seems to have more amenities and a better location. Just trying to get some help putting this in perspective. Thanks, Klewis I'm also on the same boat. Planning to attend a PG cert course in UC Irvine in the fall 2016. Would like to know where are you attending and are you also attending a PG course. I'm yet to proceed with the admission and visa. JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Hi there Looking for any UK expats living and working in Terni, Umbria. I have been here for 8 months now and would love to make new friends from back home. Or even any of the villages and towns surrounding the area. Drop me a line if you are around about. Cheers Debs Hello Boris, Italian Consulates nowadays are critically understaffed and severely overworked in all sectors. Plus, in countries with a huge Italian community like Canada they have to focus their priorities toward those who already hold Italian citizenship. You should start gathering documents from the City of Trieste, starting with your father's extract of birth (estratto di nascita). You should enlist the help of somebody fluent in Italian and send a letter to the following address: Comune di Trieste Servizi Demografici - Stato Civile Palazzo Anagrafe, Passo Costanzi 2 34121 TRIESTE Italy In the letter your should make clear that you need your father's "Estratto di nascita" in order to get your Italian citizenship recognized, and state clearly your father's date of birth. Send it by registered mail, and put some IRCs (International Reply Coupons) in it, if they're available in post offices in Canada. Once you have that document, everything else should be easy assuming that your father got married in Canada and naturalized himself as Canadian citizen after your birth date (otherwise you would NOT be eligible to obtain Italian citizenship by descent). Its hard to think of summer without thinking of the many neighbors who shared the southern Illinois heat, humidity and mosquitoes on the dairy farm of my youth. Back then, in the mid-1960s, wed often see neighbors across the table-flat Mississippi River bottoms as they cultivated corn or soybeans and we baled straw or raked hay. One set of neighbors, the bachelor brothers of Woodrow, Elvin, and Tanny L., owned land on either side of our farm, so six days a week one of the men would ka-push, ka-push past our house on their Johnny Popper A. If Elvin was at its wheel, hed wave to my brothers and me like a long-gone uncle utterly delighted to meet his newly discovered nephews. Since we milked 100 Holsteins, wed see many neighbors during their evening trips to the dairy barn to buy our 50-cents-a-gallon milk. Local news The price never changed; the neighbors rarely did. Most arrived just in time to visit while we milked the last couple of cows. Those visits leaned more toward local news than local gossip. Felix V. could be counted on to tell us if the morels were up. Young John O. (there was an Old John O.), who was the deckhand on the nearby Mississippi River ferry, always knew if the river was rising, falling or, as he liked to say, on a stand. Ivan M., who worked at a local grain elevator, offered the weeks price for wheat, corn and soybeans. Sometimes a neighbor came to the dairy barn to arrange an equipment or manpower swap. For example, my father often borrowed Gary K.s three-point, two-row John Deere planter to plant the many rows our six-row Oliver planter, the worlds worst, had skipped due to its faulty engineering and our faulty attention. In return, Dad would combine Garys red clover or loan him our baler on a June day when it wasnt the dusty center of his sons sweaty universe. No one on either side of those transactions ever talked money; we were neighbors and neighbors were neighborly. Changing hands Money did change hands, however, when we bought food from each other. We always bought our butcher hogs from a neighbor, usually Elmer B. Also, every week we purchased four dozen eggs from Mrs. M. with the same dollar bill her son Ivan, the elevator man, had given us a couple of days earlier on his weekly, two-gallon milk run. Two months ago, on a perfect spring day, I visited most of those old neighbors atop the nearby bluff during a slow meander through St. Leos Catholic Church Cemetery. I saw, for the first time in decades, Elvins hearty wave, Mrs. M.s lipstick smile, and Garys deeply creased grin. Far below in the blue distance lay the lovely, fertile bottoms where they had spent their entire lives, often together, making a living and enjoying life. Respect None ever had much money by todays never-enough standards, but they had something money can never buy: the rarely mentioned respect and the never-mentioned love of their neighbors. Today that respect and love that neighborliness seems to end at the property line or courthouse steps. For example, on June 14, voters in North Dakota rejected, by a resounding 3-1 margin, their legislatures loosening of the states corporate farming law. That overwhelming defeat, however, will not deter the North Dakota Farm Bureau (NDFB) from pursuing its federal court suit to have the century-old state law declared unconstitutional. After the vote, NDFBs president, Daryl Lies, said the suit must continue because, Our court system is the only appropriate place to settle this question without the issue being derailed by emotion Not true; Lies neighbors from every city, village and farm in North Dakota calmly and democratically settled the question by a perfectly clear 75-to-25 percent margin. In rejecting that outcome, though, the NDFB again proved what a growing segment of the American public now firmly believes: Farmers love to talk to consumers; they just dont want to listen to em. A good neighbor would. Just as humans can become victims of heat stroke and heat exhaustion in hot summer weather, so can livestock. Poultry flocks are no exception. Signs of heat stress in poultry The most obvious sign of heat stress in poultry is panting, according to Louisiana State University Ag Center. For older birds, the risk of heat stress is greater because as birds get larger, they also become more insulated with their feathers. University of Minnesota Extension Service explains that the thermoneutral zone for poultry is 60-75 degrees F. When temperatures rise to 85 degrees F, the upper critical temperature, they wont grow as quickly and they wont eat as much. In turn, Louisiana State University Ag Center says that birds will lay fewer eggs and hatchability, egg shell quality, internal egg quality and egg size may all decrease. When the temperature gets closer to 100 degrees F, the thermal maximum temperature, the birds core body temperature will increase unless relief is provided. How to reduce heat stress in poultry Louisiana State University Ag Center and University of Minnesota Extension Service provide the following tips for reducing heat stress on poultry flocks: Make sure birds have cool, clean water. Add electrolytes to water. Electrolytes will help to balance the electrolytes in birds, plus birds will drink more water. Grit has directions for making a homemade electrolyte solution for chickens. You can also add vitamins A, B complex, D and E to supplement water for broilers and vitamin C for breeding poultry. Feed birds during cooler parts of the day, since birds produce heat while they digest. For broilers and turkeys, remove feed 6 hours before the afternoon peak temperature. Once the peak temperature has passed, feed can be reintroduced. Leave birds alone during the hottest parts of the day. Make sure birds have plenty of space. Reduce body heat by putting fewer birds in each house. Make sure birds environments are well-ventilated and comfortable. A misting/fogging system may be used to help birds cool down. The Prairie Doc: We need to be more intentional with antibiotics NFU President Meurig Raymond has called on Defra Secretary of State Elizabeth Truss to help deliver a new domestic agricultural policy that works for farmers, consumers and the economy. Mr Raymonds meeting with the Secretary of State came just two days before the NFUs ruling Council meeting this Friday which will discuss the important role government needs to play to ensure British farming and food production are sustainable outside of Europe. Mr Raymond said: "Food and farming is of strategic importance to the country. "I have stressed to the Secretary of State that the NFU is ready and willing to work with Government to ensure we have a profitable, productive and competitive farming industry. That work must start now. "We must take this opportunity to build a new domestic agricultural policy that is shaped to meet our needs - a policy that allows farmers and growers to prosper while delivering the nations home-grown food. "Getting the right results will take time but we need early answers to questions such as the future of support payments. "We will be seeking guarantees that the support given to our farmers remains equal to that given to farmers in the EU. "It will be essential that we are not disadvantaged during the future trade negotiations and government must not allow an open door policy to imports produced to lower standards. "The Governments approach to regulation is another key issue and members have already lost the use of neonicotinoids to control pests in oilseed rape crops. "We now have a golden opportunity to ensure our arrangements are in future proportionate and decisions are based on sound science." Mr Raymond will chair a special meeting of NFU Council in London on Friday (1 July) that will draft and agree the core principles needed for farming in England and Wales. The NFU has welcomed the announcement that the active substance glyphosate has been re-authorised for an 18-month period with no additional conditions of use placed on it. The NFU continues to push for the expected 15-year authorisation of the worlds most widely use weed-killer on behalf of its farmer members. NFU Vice President Guy Smith said: "After many delays to any re-authorisation of glyphosate were pleased to see a positive decision has been made for agriculture. It is a welcome endorsement from the Commission of science-based decision-making. "We appreciate this 18-month period is well below the 15-year re-approval expected and politics has played its part in interfering with this; members can be assured that our goals have not changed. "The approval of glyphosate offers an endorsement of the scientific scrutiny from EFSA, helping to maintain the competitiveness of agriculture, protecting the environment and allowing farmers to keep food safe and affordable. "We also welcome the fact that no additional conditions of use have been placed on the use of glyphosate something the NFU has been pushing for. "Echoing Commissioner Andriukaitis, it is important to clarify that once an active substance is approved or renewed at EU level it is then up to Member States to authorise the final products put onto their respective markets. "Im keen to see a science based approach free of politics and immune to the scare mongering we have clearly seen on glyphosate." 'Sensible and responsible' Conservative MEPs Anthea McIntyre (West Midlands) and Julie Girling (South West and Gibraltar) said the move to prevent the herbicide being removed from shelves from one day to the next was "sensible and responsible". They were commenting after the Commission granted glyphosate a licence for a further 18 months - just hours before its EU approval expired. Attempts to grant glyphosate a longer approval of several years from June 30 hit deadlock after the French Government lodged objections and other nations abstained. Despite advice from the EU's own scientific experts that the weedkiller did not present any significant risk, some EU politicians mounted an organised opposition to renewed approval on the basis of an historic World Health Organisation report suggesting a possible link to cancer. The Commissions proposed extension will allow for further complementary studies to be carried out by the EUs other scientific body - the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) - to determine whether glyphosate requires reclassification from a safety perspective. Miss McIntyre and Mrs Girling today issued a joint statement saying: "Farmers will be hugely relieved that this important tool for protecting their crops is still available to them. "We maintain that the EU should listen to the science and not be swayed by scaremongering. "We hope that these further studies confirm that glyphosate is safe for use, so we can put this discussion to rest and farmers can get on with their work. "A ban on glyphosate could have a huge impact on farming in the UK and across Europe, so any such decision should only be taken if there is compelling scientific evidence that such drastic action is absolutely necessary. "While everyone's attention was on the referendum result, the clock was still ticking on glyphosate - so this stay of execution is sensible and responsible. "It will allow us time to examine and further test the scientific evidence to come up with a sound decision further down the line." A few days after the UKs referendum on membership of the European Union the increasing turbulent nature of investment has caused uncertainty. However, the governments acceptance of the fifth carbon budget at the level recommended by the Committee on Climate Change is an important indication of the UKs desire to continue growing its low carbon economy. The Aldersgate Group, an alliance of leaders from business, politics and civil society that drives action for a sustainable economy, has welcomed the move. Nick Molho, Executive Director, said: "The adoption of the fifth carbon budget is an important step forward. "It shows that the UK wants to stay on track in meeting its long-term climate change targets in a way thats cost effective and also signals an intent to increase investment in low carbon technologies. "At a time when global investments in clean technologies are rapidly growing in countries such as China, India, the United States and South Africa, its important that the UK keeps growing its low carbon economy to remain competitive on the global stage. "As we are seeing with the offshore wind manufacturing investments being made in Hull, growing the UKs low carbon economy can bring investment and skilled employment opportunities to those parts of the country that need it the most." Nick Molho added: "Business now looks towards the governments Emissions Reduction Plan later this year to set out the specific policy drivers that will help stimulate investment in low carbon generation, energy efficiency projects, low carbon heat and low emission transport during this Parliament. "This is an opportunity for the government to set out a strategy that businesses will respond to with affordable investment and innovation in low carbon technologies." 'Strong' UK framework for continued investment RenewableUK, the trade and professional body for the UK wind and marine renewables industries, has said the governments 'bold leadership' on carbon reduction will secure more investment in British renewables. Todays announcement that the Government has approved an ambitious Carbon Budget out to 2032 underlines that there is a 'strong UK framework' for continued investment in renewables. Ministers have announced they will enact the 5th Carbon Budget, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 57% compared to 1990 levels, during the period 2028 to 2032, as recommended by the Committee on Climate Change. RenewableUKs Chief Executive, Hugh McNeal, said: "This Government is global leader in tackling climate change. "Todays announcement is especially welcome given the uncertainty caused by last weeks referendum. "Its a clear signal that the UK will continue to show bold leadership on carbon reduction. "This will allow investment to continue to flow into renewable energy projects throughout the UK. The latest carbon budget sets the UK on course to ensuring it meets its legally binding target of reducing carbon emissions by 80% by 2050 compared to 1990 levels. Its predecessor, the 4th Carbon Budget, covering 2023 to 2027, set out a 52% reduction. Anaerobic digestion has 'potential to reduce gas emissions by 4%' ADBAs Chief Executive, Charlotte Morton, commented: "Anaerobic digestion (AD) has the potential to reduce the UKs greenhouse gas emissions by 4%. "Thats about 1.2 billion saved in carbon abatement costs by decarbonising electricity and heat sectors, farming and transport. "As well as contributing to the Fifth Carbon Budget emissions reductions by generating renewable energy or transport fuel, AD reduces emissions from rotting manure, landfilled food waste and expensive carbon-intensive manufactured fertiliser. "The AD industrys continued growth has been put at risk by changes to support mechanisms like the Feed-in Tariff, but the government can reassure the sector and deliver its goals by setting out a clear vision for both food waste collections and farm-based AD." Dairy Crest is reversing the previously announced reduction to the milk price from 1 July 2016. The last fortnight has seen some signs of stability in the dairy markets and Dairy Crest has said it 'wanted to respond as soon as possible'. DCD accepted this offer. This means the Davidstow core milk price will remain at 21.72ppl until the end of August 2016. Ruth Askew, Head of Procurement at Dairy Crest, said: "Dairy Crest is pleased to announce the reversal of the July reduction. "We always aim to pay a fair, stable, market-related milk price. In the past fortnight, we have seen some signs of stability in dairy markets. "We wanted to reflect this positively in our milk price at the earliest possible opportunity for the benefit of our farmers. "We were delighted to meet with so many of our farmers at the Royal Cornwall Show earlier this month. "We understand their concerns about long term security in the dairy sector. We hope this latest announcement will be welcome news for all of our farmers. "This positive news is another sign of our confidence in the future of Dairy Crest and the wider British dairy sector. "We have market-leading brands, including Cathedral City, as well as our developing infant formula business which gives us access to high growth, high margin markets. "Dairy Crest is well placed to continue to provide security and opportunities for growth for our supplying farmers." DCD Chairman Steve Bone commented: "We are pleased that Dairy Crest will not implement the price reduction for July. We have been asking Dairy Crest to consider their position and this is a positive step. Both parties agree that working together to deliver stability for our farmers is imperative." Over half a million pounds of rural funding has been announced by The Princes Countryside Fund to help tackle rural isolation, declining skills and digital exclusion. The 551,738 grant will include twenty diverse rural projects across the UK will receive the crucial funding, empowering them to secure a bright future for the countryside, through training opportunities, support networks, counselling and new social enterprise projects. Established by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2010, The Princes Countryside Fund exists to improve the prospects of family farm businesses and the quality of rural life. To date, the charity has distributed over 6.7 million in grants and emergency funding directly benefiting more than 210,000 people who live and work in rural areas. Across the UK, 20% of farm businesses are in significant financial difficulties, an average of 200 village shops close each year, one million people living in rural areas have no access to the internet and many communities continue to suffer in the aftermath of the winter floods. Newly funded projects address a far-reaching spectrum of rural issues, from digital exclusion to declining countryside industries, rural vocations for the next generation and isolated rural communities. Claire Saunders, Director of The Princes Countryside Fund said: "We received an overwhelming amount of applications for funding; testament to the ceaseless trials our rural communities face. "Our recent research into the farming crisis revealed that a shocking 20% of all farmers are suffering from significant financial hardship and rural communities are still in recovery from the unforeseen catastrophe of the December floods. "Rural infrastructure continues to be chipped away, with crippling consequences for isolated villages and towns, and investment in the futures of the next generation of rural entrepreneurs is barely there. "We give grants to enable practical action on the ground, and we look forward to working with our inspiring new projects to achieve this." The full list of projects supported is: Penistone Young Farmers 18,612 for two years (Yorkshire and the Humber) Soil Association 25,000 (UK-wide) Duchy College 50,000 for two years (South West) Scottish Crofting Federation 20,732.32 (Scotland) Grimsby Institute for Further and Higher Education (GIFHE) 24,838 (East Midlands) Cosmic 48,263.29 (South West) Tinder Foundation 40,000 (East Midlands) FarmCornwall CIC 19,280 (South West) Growing Rural Enterprise Ltd 25,000 Broads Reed & Sedge Cutters Association (Brasca) Devon Federation of Young Farmers Clubs 21,600 (South West) South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society 20,000 (North East) Marchington Community Shop 28,690.00 (East Midlands) Border Rambler Rural Transport Services CIC 1,078.00 (North West) Preseli Rural Transport Association Limited 30,000 (Wales) Bakewell and Eyam Community Transport 19,080 (East Midlands) Northern Fells Rural Community Development Group 45,000 (North West) Llandegla Community Shop Ltd 25,000 (Wales) ACTion with Communities in Cumbria 15,046 for three years (North West) The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will officially open South Caernarfon Creameries new cheese production unit on Tuesday 5th July. Prince Charles will tour the Creameries site, meet with staff and members of the dairy co-operative which is owned by 127 farmers who farm in North Wales and Mid Wales. The visit to South Caernarfons Chwilog site near Pwllheli is part of The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall's twelfth annual Summer visit to Wales. Alan Wyn Jones, Managing Director at South Caernarfon Creameries said: "We are very honoured that The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall will officially open our new cheese facility, which is the first major cheese production investment in the UK for 40 years. "We are looking forward to showing them our new facilities and to provide an insight into our co-operative business, for example, how our member farmers supply high quality Welsh milk which is processed into quality, award-winning Welsh cheese and Welsh butter which we sell to UK retailers and to international markets." The Prince of Wales has a longstanding commitment to supporting Britain's agriculture and ensuring its sustainable future. In 2010, Prince Charles founded The Prince's Countryside Fund, which aims to create a brighter future for the British countryside. Post-EU referendum opportunities for meat exports have been brought into focus by the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). The organisation united beef, sheep meat and pig meat exporters and other key industry stakeholders at its 12th annual Meat Export Conference in Warwickshire to start the dialogue on how to maximise opportunities in the new political landscape. More than 100 delegates heard about developments in international markets and implications for the meat trade in the wake of the UKs Brexit vote. Setting the scene, AHDB chief executive Jane King described the referendum as a game-changer for UK agriculture, outlining the priorities for AHDB as being to help levy payers make sense of the issues facing them and to help industry and Government secure the best trading environment for agricultural products. She said: "Although we cannot understate the importance of the EU single market for UK food businesses, AHDB already has a strong track record in developing markets outside the EU. "We have successfully worked with Defra and UKTI to secure market access to China for pig meat and India for seed potatoes. "This area of work will become ever more important once Brexit takes effect." Tariff and non-tariff barriers AHDB head of livestock exports Jean-Pierre Garnier acknowledged challenges presented by tariff and non-tariff barriers, but pointed to a positive future for exports in both EU and non-EU markets. "Given Fridays result, I anticipate there will be three years of rough seas and uncertainty for the UK meat trade," he said. "However, our core strengths and unique selling points, such as our natural production systems and the high quality and great taste of our products remain in place. "Therefore, the long-term prospects are highly favourable, provided we manage a smooth transition to a new, constructive trading agreement with the EU." Managing the complexity of market access was addressed by Dr Phil Hadley, AHDB Beef & Lamb head of global supply chain development. He highlighted the key role AHDB expertise plays in working with industry and Government to achieve market access approvals, driving wider market opportunities and opening up commercial activity. Delegates also heard from Karen Morgan, Agriculture Councillor at the British Embassy in Beijing, who spoke of the Golden Era in UK-China relations following President Xi Jinpings recent visit to the UK. However, she reiterated that matching the expectations of the UK industry with the level of resource in China will be a key challenge moving forward. "While theres still a long way to go, negotiations to gain access for beef to the Chinese market have accelerated faster than expected, she said. "Steady progress is being made on getting pork processing plant approvals to broaden the number of plants and we are continuing to press for progress in the lucrative trotter market." AHDB is committed to supporting the agricultural industry to be best-placed, competitive and ambitious for growth following the decision to leave the EU. Cost of living crisis could trigger 'winter crime epidemic' on farms Second state in a 12-state tour By Diego Flammini Assistant Editor, North American Content Farms.com The Farms.com Risk Management team rolled into Indiana as the 2016 U.S. Corn Belt Crop Tour continues to make its way across the U.S. Midwest. Moe Agostino, Farms.com Risk Management Chief Commodity Strategist, said hes concerned with the progress of some Indiana crops. This crop should be further ahead, he said while visiting a field south of Indianapolis. Whether Im looking at beans or corn, it looks behind. It looks dry and looks like a lot of this area needs some moisture. Farmers got rain in late April and early May, but that seemed to hamper their progress. Everybody got in the field mid-to-late April, and then Mother Nature decided to turn the water on, said Joe Mills, a farmer from Crawfordsville, Indiana. "We didn't roll wheels in the field for about three weeks." If we could plant all the corn in one day it would be May 2 or May 3. But since then, the fields havent gotten the moisture they need. Its enough, probably at the bottom of enough, Mills said. For the rain we do have, things look okay. As the tour continued through the state, the crops seemed to improve. We finally found some tasseling corn, Agostino said, standing in a field near Terra Haute. We even have some ears in here. Agostino gave both the corn and soybeans a score of 7/10. Be sure to check back daily as more videos from the tour are posted. Its next stop is Illinois. Use the hashtag #cornbelt16 to follow the tour on social media. Let us know on Twitter Since we live in one of the greatest countries on earth and we are proud to be part of the agriculture community in Canada, we thought we could share national pride and have a little fun at the same time. How do Canadian Farmers celebrate Canada Day? We know how major Canadian cities celebrate Canada Day, but how do rural areas, and isolated farmers celebrate Canada Day? Will you be working the farm and too busy to celebrate? Or will you have friends and family over for BBQ, Picnic, etc. and enjoy some fresh farm produce? Do you fly the Canadian flag on your farm? Celebrate your photos and thoughts with us on Twitter using the hashtag #Canadianfarmer, but be sure to also use the hashtag #CanadaDay so that the non-farming community can see how the agriculture sector celebrates Canada Day! Tell us why you think Canada is a great place to farm! On Monday, we will create a photo-montage of some of the photos and thoughts we see on Twitter with the hashtag! Happy Canada Day everyone! Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto met today in Ottawa with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and announced that Mexico will fully re-open to Canadian beef effective October 1, 2016. Canadian Cattlemens Association (CCA) President Dan Darling, in Ottawa for President Penas announcement, said the October 1 effective date is particularly important in terms of timing as it provides producers with an expanded export opportunity for over-30-month (OTM) beef. The months of October and November are traditionally the time of year when Canadian beef farmers send most of their mature breeding cows to market, Darling said. Mexico has traditionally been an excellent market for Canadian beef. In addition to expanded access for OTM beef, we look forward to potential future opportunities that todays announcement of fully restored access for Canada for all beef and beef products, regardless of the age of the cattle, will bring. Mexico closed to Canadian beef in May 2003 when Canada discovered its first domestic case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). Mexico re-opened to beef from cattle under-30-months (UTM) of age later that year, but remained closed to beef from OTM cattle and some UTM offal. Normalized access with Mexico marks the removal of one of the few remaining BSE trade restrictions in the world and that will help instill confidence in Canadian beef producers to grow their herds, Darling said. When our production increases to previous levels, I believe that Mexico could again import more than $250 million per year like it used to. Prior to BSE, Canada was exporting between $270 million to $290 million of beef per year to Mexico, of which approximately 20 to 25 per cent was OTM. Mexico has been Canadas third largest export market the past three years. From 2011 to 2015, Canada averaged $136 million in annual beef exports to Mexico. Todays announcement is the final step in normalizing the Canada-Mexico beef trade as Canada had approved Mexico to export beef to Canada two years ago, Darling noted. I want to thank Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay, International Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland and Prime Minister Trudeau for their work to achieve todays significant result for the Canadian beef sector, he said. Source: Cattle Mr Goddard, who took on the role earlier this month, said it was "still early days"in terms of what Pulse Australia will offer moving forward, but its focus would move from in-paddock extension to an advocacy and post-farm gate approach. Ms Reading said the Greens would advocate for the development and funding of a National Rural Generalist Framework to encompass mechanisms to promote and sustain rural general practices, strategies for rural recruitment and retention, other workforce development measures and a National Rural Generalist Training Program to ensure that the next generations of rural doctors are equipped with the necessary education, training and skills to prepare them for rural medical practice. "We could get more use out of our truck, we could do a few trips in one day rather than only one load a day when we were taking grain to Perth and there was about a $6 per tonne savings compared to hiring a contractor. "Maybe in the future it could be brought into a family arrangement but right now, in the short term, we need a separate service for the bush and I believe the government has to follow Mr Ferguson's recommendations," he said. Fort Bragg to be known as Fort Liberty. Here's what to know. When will Fort Bragg be renamed? Why will it be renamed Fort Liberty? How much will it cost? Fraud is costing the UK a staggering 193 billion ($282 billion) a year, according to a new report. The 2016 UK Annual Fraud Indicator calculations make for grim reading: 6,000 ($8,769) lost every second of every day, equating to more than 3,900 ($5,700) per adult. Business fraud accounted for 144 billion ($209 billion), the study by the University of Portsmouths Centre for Counter Fraud Studies said, while fraud against individuals was estimated at 9.7 billion ($14 billion). A prior estimate made in 2013 by the now defunct National Fraud Authority put the cost of fraud at 52 billion ($75 billion) a year, so the figures represent a huge jump. And if you consider this in the context of the UKs ailing National Health Service, supporting education or even a potential cut in taxes, the losses are simply appalling. The biggest impact has been in the private sector, where procurement fraud has cost businesses 127 billion ($183.5 billion). How many jobs, taxes or cut in pay does this represent? Its only when these figures are given a human perspective that they make sense. So what is the UK governments response? Austerity cuts to UK policing have seen the vast majority of fraud squads decimated. The cuts to policing have seen highly skilled fraud detectives absorbed back into mainstream CID (Criminal Investigation Department) policing. Even uniform policing in fraud is not considered a policing priority. The shortsightedness of this realignment of policing assets is disturbing. How can a problem as big as this not generate a meaningful response from UK politicians or government? Effectively the problem is being ignored. Fraud is real money. It isnt potential money, realizable only when drug barons sell their illicit goods. Criminals are dynamic when dealing with the risk of capture. In the 1960s and 1970s, armed robbery was the scourge of London, with sawn-off shotguns and stocking masks being the tools of choice. The Metropolitan Police response was the famous and much lauded Flying Squad (aka The Sweeney). The criminals response, once they realized the police were meeting fire with fire was to move into drug trafficking. In the 1980s, 1990s and into the 2000s, the police once again responded in kind, with specialist undercover squads and surveillance operatives accounting for many drug dealer arrests. So whats next? The natural evolution has been the progression into fraud. Why would you run the risk of dealing in drugs and receiving a huge prison sentence, when you can defraud someone and know that theres hardly any specialist officers left to investigate your crime and even if you do get caught, then the prison sentence will be light? The UK has implemented a fraud-reporting system called Action Fraud. The idea behind this is that everybody affected reports their crime to Action Fraud, and the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) wades through the reports and identifies commonalities, before sending intelligence and evidence packages to the relevant police force. Sounds great, doesnt it? One of the investigators in my firm served with fraud squads in the northwest of England for 17 years. He played a sizeable part in implementing Action Fraud in that region. As he said to me recently, whats the point of the NFIB issuing intelligence and fraud packages, in the full knowledge that there are no specialist officers to investigate them? Its called paying lip service. The problem is huge and there is apparently no appetite in UK law enforcement (due in part to austerity cuts), to face up to the task. Criminals are not daft. Fraudsters in particular are by nature crafty and intelligent. They will continue to prey on victims until such time as there is a realistic possibility of their being apprehended and sentenced to a term of imprisonment that reflects the severity of the crime. Experts in our field of asset recovery get tired of telling anyone who will listen that fraud is not a victimless crime. The UK government should fund the specialists capable of protecting the casualties of this ongoing economic war that continues to blight the UK. ____ Martin Kenney is Managing Partner of Martin Kenney & Co., Solicitors, a specialist investigative and asset recovery practice focused on multi-jurisdictional fraud and grand corruption cases www.martinkenney.com |@MKSolicitors. In the future, compliance officers will need to anticipate and respond to a transformation in business ethics. Here are six trends to watch out for. Hyper-transparency: By 2020, there will be 80 billion devices connected to the internet. As internet access has grown, the media industry has fragmented, public debate has become less top-down and more diffuse, and companies have had to accept that the ability to control reputation has been greatly reduced. This new environment raises complex and morally fraught questions around privacy, surveillance, transparency, and freedom of expression. Companies in the future will behave as if everything they say and do may become public, but they will expect the same from employees. More broadly, the vast expansion of interconnectedness will transform how companies manage and engage with their external and internal stakeholders. This will require rethinking approaches to reputation, stakeholder engagement, and values. Individual and Collective Empowerment: Headlines today focus on inequality, but there is another underlying story here: the growth of the middle class. By one estimate, the worlds middle class will increase from 1.8 billion in 2009 to 5 billion in 2030, a growth trajectory that is concentrated in the Global South. Improved living standards and education levels will create an unprecedented level of individual empowerment, along with new expectations from business and governments. Individual empowerment is bolstered by collective action. Through social media, citizens in the most distant locations can bring local issues to the world and work with global partners to address grievances. As anti-corruption tools and literacy continue to spread among populations, companies should expect to come under greater scrutiny. Already, we see individual and collective empowerment leading to rising public anger about corruption in countries as varied as Brazil, India, China, Russia, Turkey, Malaysia, and Indonesia. We can expect demands for the fulfillment of individual and societal human rights to continue. This will lead to more powerful advocacy for social, economic, and environmental justice, along with the creation of a more vibrant and extensive civil society. The role of the business sector will change as expectations around its responsibilities shift. Standard but outdated concepts that the purpose of corporations is to drive shareholder value may be replaced by broader concepts of stakeholder trust and shared value. Demographics and Automation: The world is getting older. Today, over 60 percent of the worlds population lives in countries in which the fertility rate is below the replacement rate. This aging has sweeping social and economic implications, including a decline in the number of workers available to business and an increase in local communities need for (and demand for) services associated with an older population. The overall decline in the workforce will be counterbalanced by the automation of jobs across all industries. Many jobs will be eliminated, and there is risk of widespread societal and political disruption in a number of areas. It is likely that in an era of reduced employment opportunities and thus, reduced contributions by business to society through job creation the pressure for equitable sharing of value created by business will be intense. Companies will need to consider their role in creating and sustaining more inclusive economies. Organizational Culture: A consensus has emerged as to what an effective anti-corruption compliance program looks like its components and success factors. At the same time, it has become clear that compliance programs dont exist in a vacuum, and that the effectiveness of any process is driven by the surrounding culture. The ethical challenges facing companies today go far beyond the traditional control remit of compliance teams. In the future, compliance and ethics functions will not just police the enforcement of existing rules, but will be empowered, independent, and ready to meet the most pressing challenges facing companies. Compliance officers will become agents of change, taking ownership of company values and culture. Supply Chain Oversight: The current approach of self-regulation in supply chains is likely to become untenable in the face of increasing transparency and awareness. Governments may seek a greater role in the regulation of corporate supply chains and of the expectations placed on companies. The California Transparency in Supply Chains Act and the UKs Modern Slavery Act represent early moves toward the same standard. Given the immense practical complexity that this presents for businesses, we might expect to see the emergence of an adequate procedures framework analogous to the emerging global consensus on anti-corruption compliance. Toward Systems Thinking: Corruption has long been approached with the implicit attitude that it is a victimless crime. This is now changing fast, as it has become impossible to ignore the links between corruption, poverty, conflict, and human rights violations. Compliance and ethics departments will need to incorporate into their strategies the connections among corruption, human rights violations, and the conflicts they drive. They must underline not just the legal ramifications of corruption but its larger impact. As more initiatives seek to bring together actors from different spheres, companies should expect to be drawn into participating in expansive anti-corruption networks. ____ Alison Taylor is director of advisory services at BSR, a non-profit consultancy and company network focused on sustainability and CSR. James Cohen as an expert on anti-corruption, international development, and security sector reform. He is based in Washington DC, and can be followed on Twitter at @JamesCohen82. Eva Longoria is "honoured" to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Eva Longoria (c) Instagram The 41- year-old 'Desperate Housewives actress - who played Gabrielle Solis in the ABC hit American drama series for eight years - has finally earned her title on Hollywood's Walk of Fame and is among celebrities to have her name emblazoned on the iconic street in California, which she has dreamed of for two decades. The brunette beauty shared a picture of her stamp on her Instagram account on Wednesday (29.06.16), alongside the caption: "OMG I'm so honoured to be receiving a STAR on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! I remember moving to Hollywood nearly 20 years ago and going straight to the iconic street and looking at the stars saying 'I wanna have a star on this street one day!' I remember it so clearly, I was on the corner of La Brea and Hollywood Blvd. Thank you to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for making this dream of mine come true.! #HollywoodWalkOfFame #WOFStarGirl (sic)." Meanwhile, the Texas-born star - who married TV boss Jose 'Pepe' Baston on May 21, 2016 - has admitted she hopes to celebrate her golden wedding anniversary in "49 years, 11 months". Speaking previously, she said: "Happy ONE month anniversary to this amazing, beautiful soul! Only 49 years, 11 months to go!! #Love #Husband #MyLife (sic)." The glowing star - who split from her second husband Tony Parker in 2011 after four years of marriage - couldn't be happier with her third husband. They dated for over two years before they wed near Mexico City surrounded by family and friends, including her best pal Victoria Beckham and her husband David, Ricky Martin and Mario Lopez. Speaking about her special day, she said: "It was so magical. We had so much fun as you can see from all the posts from everybody. It was the funnest wedding I had ever been to. I'm glad it was mine." Tom Hanks is a huge favourite here at FemaleFirst and he is set to return to the big screen at the end of the year with Sully: Miracle On The Hudson. Sully: Miracle On The Hudson Sully: Miracle On The Hudson sees the two-time Oscar-winning actor team up with filmmaker Clint Eastwood as they explore the extraordinary story of Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger. Hanks takes on the role of Sully, who became a hero after gliding his plane along the water in the Hudson River, saving all of his 155 passengers, in the new film. And you can see Hanks in action in this great new trailer for the film: Eastwood has brought together a great cast as Aaron Eckhart, Laura Linney, Anna Gunn, and Autumn Reeser all-star alongside Hanks. Eastwood is one of the most exciting filmmakers around and has brought us films such as Million Dollar Baby, Gran Torino, Hereafter in recent years - this is his first feature film since the success of American Sniper. It is always exciting when an Eastwood movie is on the horizon and I cannot wait to see what he delivers this time around. On January 15, 2009, the world witnessed the 'Miracle on the Hudson' when Captain 'Sully' Sullenberger glided his disabled plane onto the frigid waters of the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 aboard. However, even as Sully was being heralded by the public and the media for his unprecedented feat of aviation skill, an investigation was unfolding that threatened to destroy his reputation and his career. This is the first actor/director collaboration between Hanks and Eastwood and I am excited to see them in action. Sully: Miracle On The Hudson is released 2nd December. by Helen Earnshaw for www.femalefirst.co.uk find me on and follow me on Travis Barker's daughter will feature on his new album. Travis Barker The Blink-182 drummer has revealed 10-year-old Alabama will make an appearance on the track 'She's Out of Her Mind' off the group's new album 'California' after joining them in the recording studio. He said: "We were still figuring out parts, and Alabama walks over to the piano and says, 'I have an idea,' and she starts playing this idea that ended up becoming the bridge part of the piano; it was very organic. I was so proud of her ... "There's a song called 'Growing Apart.' For me, it was about our kids. You raise them, and you're so close to them: They're your everything, but you know they're going to grow up and move on ... To take their whole life as your own is the most beautiful thing in the world, and at the same time it's a really sad thing, too." And the 40-year-old musician admits he "changed immediately" when his eldest child, Landon, 12 - who he has with ex-wife Shanna Moakler - was born and is keen to spend as much time with them as possible as they get older. He added: "I felt myself change immediately. I started running, I boxed every day - it's just something that made me want to be the best parent I could be. "I just want to spend as much time with them as I can. There are girls chasing my son and boys chasing my daughter - I told them if things get out of hand, we're moving far, far away. We'll have our own island somewhere." Meanwhile, Travis also revealed he's feeling better now than he did 20 years ago. He told PEOPLE magazine: "I'm feeling younger and better now than I did when I was 20. In the 90s, I was probably one of the most unhealthy human beings, from what I ate to what I put in my body. "There have been so many hardships in my life. Now I know how to handle them ... I just feel so blessed ... It just goes to show it's really about how you carry yourself and how you treat yourself, and I definitely made a lifestyle change years ago that made me 100 percent better." Britain's Prince Harry has been announced as the Royal Patron of The Silverstone Heritage Experience. Prince Harry TSHE will bring the extensive heritage of Silverstone and British motor racing to life through the creation of an interactive and educational visitor experience, which is set to open in 2018, on the 70th anniversary of the first Grand Prix being held at the circuit. President of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), Derek Warwick said: "We are delighted that Prince Harry has agreed to be the project's Royal Patron. He has expressed his support for the project and the opportunity to recognise the part Britain has played in motorsport historically and also the vital role British expertise plays in the modern era. "HRH is keen to draw attention to this contribution as a means of encouraging more people into engineering and the thriving British motor sport industry." The 20 million exhibition, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, will take visitors on a two-hour journey through motor racing past, present and future, using the latest technology to tell the stories of the people that have been part of the site's history, from medieval monks and WW2 air crew to the racing drivers, riders, engineers and marshals of today. There is no surprise that behind every successful actor in the country today there is a personal chef. How else will these young super stars look glamorous and fighting fit while taping for their films across continents? Read about some of these dynamic duos who are conquering the world with power meals and super foods. Priyanka Chopra: For most part of her nearly year-long stay in the U.S., Priyanka has had a private chef who joined her in Los Angeles after training under her mum Dr Madhu Chopra. A big foodie the actor tells Femina she thrives on Indian khaana like chicken curry and paratha and biryani. Im a foodie because Im a Chopra. I need my desi food after a hard days work, she says. Ranveer Singh: The actor flew his personal chef MohitSavargaonkar to Paris when he started taping for Aditya Chopras Befikre in May. Mohits responsibilities in Paris include serving freshly-squeezed juice, healthy meals of meat, eggs and asparagus tasty, and sugar free desserts round the clock. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: Whenever she travels overseas with daughter Aaradhya, she has a chef from the Bachchan kitchen accompanying them. The chef primarily dishes out ghee rice, sambhar, idli and dosas for little Aaradhya. Kamal Haasan: Recently, when he was directing and acting in new film Sabash Naidu in Los Angeles, he had his family cook from Chennai whip up homemade food for him and daughters Shruti and Akshara. Photographs: Yogen Shah Ferris State Universitys Swan Technical Arts Building is set to undergo a significant expansion as part of a state of Michigan capital outlay project that was recently signed by Gov. Rick Snyder. The $30 million project will turn the Center for Welding Excellence and Center for Advanced Manufacturing into a reality on the Big Rapids campus. The vision of Ferris State Universitys future Center for Welding Excellence and Center for Advanced Manufacturing will soon become a reality. This week, Gov. Rick Snyder signed his approval for the $30 million Swan Annex expansion. Prior to the governors signed endorsement, the state legislature approved construction authorization for the Swan Annex expansion capital outlay project. This year, Swan Annex was the state of Michigans only approved higher-education capital outlay project to receive construction authorization. Ferris President David Eisler noted the opportunities that the university will now have for a much-needed expansion of academic and laboratory space for College of Engineering Technology programs such as welding and advanced manufacturing. Further, Eisler expressed his appreciation for the legislative support that the project has received. Were very grateful to Sen. Darwin Booher for his support for this project, Eisler said. His leadership in Lansing was critical to the approval and funding of this much-needed expansion of our nationally-recognized programs in Welding Engineering Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Technology. Booher praised Ferris leadership in the education of students to become qualified professionals, particularly in the fields of manufacturing and welding, as highlighted by Eisler. Ferris State University has been a leader in preparing todays students for tomorrows jobs and this addition to the Swan building will be instrumental in expanding the welding and advanced manufacturing programs, Booher said. I look forward to work beginning soon on this project so that more people can be trained in these critical shortage areas by a proven leader. The $30 million project includes $22.5 million in funding from the state of Michigan while Ferris will contribute $7.5 million toward the facilitys expansion. The full scope of the project includes the renovation of the current 47,086 square-foot building and the addition of 34,462 square feet of state-of-the-art new space to better serve the Welding Engineering Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Technology academic programs that have outgrown the current space. Ferris welding and manufacturing programs are filled to capacity and lack the instructional space to meet the demand of a long student waitlist. The Swan Annex project will double the size of the welding program as a Center for Welding Excellence, and create a Center for Advanced Manufacturing. The fully-completed project will significantly upgrade the laboratories used for manufacturing-related programs such as CAD Drafting and Tool Design, Mechanical Engineering Technology, and Plastics and Rubber. College of Engineering Technology Dean Larry Schult noted a great demand for students with associate degrees in Welding Technology, as well as their Bachelor of Science in Welding Engineering Technology. Our program is nationally-recognized, and has a rigor that matches its status, with academics that are deserving of such honors, Schult said. When the facility that is being planned is completed, state-of-the-art facilities will be in place, along with the most modern equipment. A report by Manufacturing Institute, in partnership with Deloitte, demonstrated a need for a qualified workforce. The 2015 Skills Gap Report reads, in part, Every dollar spent in manufacturing adds $1.37 to the U.S. economy, and every 100 jobs in a manufacturing facility creates an additional 250 jobs in other sectors. Gov. Snyder visited Big Rapids and toured Ferris Swan Technical Arts Building, in April 2014. Swan Annex construction is expected to begin, in 2016, and run toward a 2018 completion date. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan while net profit was 112 million yuan. In the first quarter of this year, the Group's revenue totaled 79.44 million yuan whereas net profit was 5.2003 million yuan, Yin Group chairman Yin Zhiyong told Fibre2Fashion in Shanghai. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # The total value of all shares of Yin Group is 2.363 billion yuan, which is a growth of 652.02 per cent of the face value of shares. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # Yin Group's CNC cutting equipment, automatic spreading machine, and garment hanging storage system has obvious advantages and are in line with CYG Group's long-term development strategy of 'intelligent equipment factory' positioning. Moreover, CYG's existing 'smart factory equipment' subsidiary Zhuhai Intelli will get synergistic effect. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # Founded in 2006, Yin Group is the number one digital equipment solutions provider for pre-sewing, sewing, and post-sewing clothing technology. The company is one of the few Chinese companies that have intellectual property rights of CNC cutting machines. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # Currently, Yin Group has dozens of offices throughout China and also overseas subsidiaries in Japan and Germany. Its products have been exported to Japan, India, Brazil, the US, Germany, the UK and other countries. Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # The company has manufacturing units in Shanghai and in Jiangsu province. As an industry leader in CNC cutting equipment, Yin Group actively promotes the fusion of industrialisation and information, and promotes technological innovation and popularisation of automatic cutting technology. (RKS) Changyuan Group (also CYG Group) has announced acquisition of textile machinery manufacturer Shanghai Yin Science & Technology Company (Yin Group). CYG Group paid 1.88 billion yuan to 16 shareholders of Yin for buying 48 million shares, which account for 80 per cent of the total equity shares. In 2015, Yin Group's revenue stood at 477 million yuan # Fibre2Fashion News Desk China The ministry of textiles has set a target of extending loans under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme to five lakh handloom weavers in the next three years, textiles secretary Rashmi Verma has said. The ministry of textiles has set a target of extending loans under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme to five lakh handloom weavers in the next three years, textiles secretary Rashmi Verma has said. The government is paying special attention to i) skill upgradation of weavers, ii) loom upgradation, # The government is paying special attention to i) skill upgradation of weavers, ii) loom upgradation, iii) ensuring availability of good quality raw material, iv) providing better access to credit, and v) branding of good quality handloom products, Verma said at a national workshop on MUDRA scheme for handloom weavers and artisans, organised by Office of Development Commissioner (Handlooms), ministry of textiles, in New Delhi. The ministry of textiles has set a target of extending loans under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme to five lakh handloom weavers in the next three years, textiles secretary Rashmi Verma has said. The government is paying special attention to i) skill upgradation of weavers, ii) loom upgradation, # The experience in implementation of Weavers Credit Card scheme has not been fully satisfactory; the per capita amount sanctioned is low and procedures are cumbersome, Verma said, according to an official statement. The ministry of textiles has set a target of extending loans under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme to five lakh handloom weavers in the next three years, textiles secretary Rashmi Verma has said. The government is paying special attention to i) skill upgradation of weavers, ii) loom upgradation, # Availability of working capital is a critical component in enhancing earnings of weavers, she said, and informed that the government has formulated a new model under MUDRA scheme for providing credit to handloom sector. The new model combines elements of concessional credit such as margin money, interest subvention, and credit guarantee cover. The ministry of textiles has set a target of extending loans under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme to five lakh handloom weavers in the next three years, textiles secretary Rashmi Verma has said. The government is paying special attention to i) skill upgradation of weavers, ii) loom upgradation, # For implementation of the new model, the ministry of textiles has requested every state and union territory to prepare a three-year action plan to achieve the five lakh target. The plan would cover all handloom clusters, with the aim of extending MUDRA loans to all eligible, willing, non-defaulting handloom weavers. The plan would also identify banks for each cluster, keeping in view the presence of banks and their willingness to participate in the scheme. (RKS) The ministry of textiles has set a target of extending loans under the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme to five lakh handloom weavers in the next three years, textiles secretary Rashmi Verma has said. The government is paying special attention to i) skill upgradation of weavers, ii) loom upgradation, # Fibre2Fashion News Desk India The Fiji Roads Authority Board has appointed Mr. John Schilling Hutchinson as the new chief executive officer for the Authority. He assumed office on 27 June. Mr. Hutchinson has more than 20 years experience in strategic planning, transformational leadership, operational and general management, project management, and infrastructure-asset and portfolio management in both the public and private sectors. Mr Hutchinson worked for several large corporations in Australia after a distinguished career as an officer in the Australian Regular Army from 1976 to 1999. From 1995 to 1998, Mr Hutchison was on secondment from the Australian Army to the Fiji Military Forces, and he is aware of the infrastructure challenges in Fiji. Most recently, he was general manager of the Global Security and Risk Management Group, serving in several countries around the world. His previous positions included project director and executive general manager of Fluor Rail Services, senior construction manager of Fluor Australia, interim chief executive officer of HBS Group in Papua New Guinea, and contract general manager of JFTA PTY Limited. -ENDS- As CEO, Mr. Hutchinson is responsible for working with the FRA Board of Directors to lead the transformation of roads, bridges, jetties and street lighting and the continuous improvement of transportation infrastructure in Fiji.The Chairman of FRA, Mr. Dinesh Patel, said the new CEO will also be responsible for institutionalising a high degree of accountability and transparency in all actions of FRA, including for its consultants and contractors, and setting high ethical standards, since this is also a key priority of the new FRA Board.Mr. Hutchinson was awarded the title of Certified Practising Project Director by the Australian Institute of Project Management. He holds two Masters degrees in business administration from the University of New England in New South Wales and a Bachelor of Arts degree in military studies from the University of New South Wales. Fijis Foreign Minister, Hon. Ratu Inoke Kubuabola this week delivered the vote of thanks at the United Nations Development Programme two-day conference on Sustainable Development Goals 16 in Nadi. The conference on achieving SDG16 in Melanesia was particularly focused on creating political and parliamentary stability to catalyse development.The two-day conference saw the participation and attendance of Speakers of Parliament, Ministers and Senior Officials of both government and the United Nations particularly from the Melanesian region. Members of Parliament, academia and the civil society also participated. Among other issues, the conference explored and stimulated discussion on political reforms, exploring link between political stability and economic growth and how international partners could support political reform in Melanesia. Issues concerning electoral reform, traditional systems of governance and strengthening political parties were also discussed.Minister Kubuabola in addressing the conference thanked the UNDP and all the participants for the successful conference. He added that he would like to see more such conference held in the region. Minister Kubuabola expressed his thanks for the stimulating discussion and was glad to hear a variety of views and opinions on topical issues. Minister Kubuabola gave particular thanks to the UN Assistant Secretary General and Regional Director for the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific UNDP - Mr. Haoling Xu and well as the UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative - Ms. Osnat Lubrani for their presence and facilitation of the conference.-ENDS- Deepika Padukone is spending some quality time with her boyfriend Ranveer Singh in the city of love, Paris. There were rumours of fight between the couple but their romantic holidays prove otherwise. A source revealed the details of their secret holiday to Bollywood Life, "Post the awards event in Spain, Ranveer flew back to Paris for the shoot of Befikre. Deepika, who was also present at the event, later flew to Paris to join her beau.'' What break-up? Go through the slider to see how crazy Deepika & Ranveer are about each other! The source further added, ''Though there are no confirmations from their side, it's obvious from the fact that while most of B-Town folks are back from Spain, Deepika is yet to return. Since both Ranveer and Deepika have been extremely busy with their work commitments, they thought this is the best time to spend time together before DP signs her next film.'' Also Read: Farhan Akhtar & Priyanka Chopra Ignore Each Other At IIFA 2016, Is The Reason Deepika Padukone? "Earlier too, the actress had flown from Los Angeles to Paris to join Ranveer, post the completion of her Hollywood film, XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage," the source said. Recently, Ranveer Singh put the break-up rumours to rest, when he took Deepika's name in his acceptance speech after receiving the award for the Best Actor at IIFA, "I was very moved by that performance. Leela to Ram, Mastani to Bajirao. I want to know which is next. Girl, you are so fine and by fine I mean a fine performer. What an actor! Nothing makes me happier than you, Deepika. Nothing makes me happier then receiving this award with you.'' Awww!! Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt are making many people jealous with their recent picture from the Coldplay concert, which is going viral on the internet. In the picture, both the heroines are seen posing with Shakun Batra. And do we even need to say how hot Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt look in black? Click on the slider to see more pictures of Deepika with Alia. On the work front, Deepika Padukone just wrapped up the shooting of her first Hollywood film, xXx: The Return Of The Xander Cage. Rumours are rife, that Deepika will soon sign Sanjay Leela Bhansali's next film, Padmavati with Ranveer Singh. Also Read: Farhan Akhtar & Priyanka Chopra Ignore Each Other At IIFA 2016, Is The Reason Deepika Padukone? The stunning actress attended the IIFA Awards 2016 in Madrid. At the grand event, when Deepika Padukone was asked to give confirmation about Padmavati, she said, "Why don't you ask Sanjay sir, he is here. He will be able to tell you. I think IIFA was a good platform to announce it. But then I don't know. I can't say anything at the moment. It is up to Sanjay to confirm." Deepika Padukone further added, "I will begin shooting in the next two months for my next Bollywood film. I can't say which one.'' Also, many insiders are claiming that Deepika Padukone has already signed her second Hollywood film and will make an announcement soon . Well, stars are definitely shining bright for Deepika Padukone. She is not only ruling Bollywood but is all set to conquer Hollywood also. Way to go girl! Being a celebrity is no easy task as you have to stay away from your loved ones for a longer time than you can imagine. Jacqueline Fernandez, has been away for shoots and has not visited her hometown Sri Lanka for a long time. However, the Housefull 3 actress, says she's missing her parents a lot and has planned to visit her home in Sri Lanka during Christmas and de-stress herself by the end of the year. "It's been a tough few months. I have been working on different films simultaneously. I'm planning to visit my family for Christmas, as that's the only free time I have. It is difficult when you have no family around, and it can get stressful at times. I de-stress when I'm with my family. I'm looking forward to December," says Jacqueline Fernandez. Well what's keeping Jacqueline Fernandez so busy? A source close to the actress reveals, "First, Jacqueline was busy with the shoot of Housefull 3. Now, she is working on an untitled film with Sidharth Malhotra. Her family often asks her to visit them, but she hasn't had the time to do so." Deepika Padukone All Set To Star In Shahrukh Khan's Don 3? Finally, the audio release date of Abhinaya Chakravarthy Kichcha Sudeep's Kotigobba 2 is confirmed. There were speculations that the audio would be launched this weekend, in a grand event but team has confirmed the date now. Teaser will be launched on July 2 as publicized, but the audio release date has been postponed. Producer Surappa Babu has said that they will launch the audio on July 9, in a simple manner and no grand event has been planned. Also he said team is looking forward for the response of audience for the teaser. Audio composed D Imman has been bagged by Anand Audio, for a very good price and they are planning to release a few song teasers before the audio launch. Anand Audio has only got the rights for Kannada version and there is no news about the audio release of the Tamil version, Mudinja Ivana Pudi. The team is looking forward to release the movie once Kabali is released as the makers are planning for simultaneous release of Kannada and Tamil in record number of theaters. Producer is aiming for a July end release, if everything goes as per the plan. Producer Surappa Babu is already getting fantastic business offers for distribution but he is waiting for the teaser and audio to be released as the buzz will only increase after that. The case is the same with the Tamil version, business will start once the audio is released. Apart from Kichcha Sudeep and Nithya Menon playing the lead roles, Prakash Raj, Nazaar, Sharath Lohithashwa, Chikkanna are playing important roles. KS Ravikumar has directed the multilingual flick. Yes, you read it right! According to a leading Tamil magazine, director Gautham Vasudev Menon has confirmed that Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar has been signed for his next movie which will be a multi-starrer. Several times in the past, Puneeth has expressed his desire to work with directors like Gautham Menon and looks like his dream of working with Gautham is materializing this year. A few years ago, a project with Puneeth and Gautham Menon was announced by Chi Gurudatt, but the project was shelved for reasons better known to the team. Gautham Menon has also said in the interview that Anushka and Tamannah are signed to play the leading ladies in this multi-starrer. Along with Puneeth, Malayalam actor Prithviraj, Telugu Star Sai Dharam Tej are already on board to play the lead roles. As per the sources, a Tamil star will be signed very soon, to join the fantastic star cast. With this ensemble cast of stars, a fantastic movie can be expected for sure. But there is no update as to whether the movie will be made in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam simultaneously or will be shot in one language and dubbed into other languages. We have to wait for more details to be revealed. Meanwhile, Puneeth has wrapped up the shoot for Dodmane Huduga recently, in Bangalore, where he shot for the introduction song of the movie sung by himself. Lakhs of Powerstar fans participated in the song shoot. After Dodmane Huduga, he will start shooting for Santhosh Anandram's Raajkumara, for which he has already shot the first schedule in Australia. Regina Cassandra, who will be seen playing a ghost in SJ Suryah's upcoming film Nenjam Marappathillai, has said many of her industry friends asked her not to sign the project, just because it was Selvaraghavan, who was directing it. "People in the industry have their own judgment on artistes. When I signed on this film, many advised me to back out as it's not easy to work with Selvaraghavan and that he gets angry easily. But it was completely the opposite," Regina told Times of India. In fact, she has revealed that Selva used to play pranks on her. "He (Selvaraghavan) was nice to all of us, and played pranks on me even before the shoot. I was staying in ECR as a few major sequences of the film were shot there. Selva sir once called in the night and asked me where I was staying. I said that I was in a bungalow all alone, in ECR. He just asked, 'are you sure that your bungalow is not haunted?' That scared the hell out of me," the 27-year-old has said. The Kedi Billa Killadi Ranga girl has also spoken about SJ Suryah. "He (Suryah) is someone who doesn't have any ego. He doesn't wait to smile or say a 'hi' to someone. He doesn't expect others to come and talk to him. He's a brilliant actor and a good human being to work with," she told the leading daily. Surprisingly, Regina has divulged that the film has Nandita and herself performing some dangerous stunts. "It was quite hectic, I also had a few scenes on rope. But my co-star, Nandita, had a lot more stunt sequences than I did. She even has a high-octane fight sequence with SJ Suryah," she has said. Also Read: 'AAA': Simbu Looks Decked, Movie To Have 9 Songs! According to the latest report, the pre-release talks for Ilayathalapathy Vijay's upcoming movie have already been initiated by some of the biggest overseas distributors. 'Vijay 60', which is being directed by Bharathan of Azhagiya Tamil Magan fame, is barely into its second shooting schedule, but the pre-release buzz is already impressive, which goes to show the star value of Vijay. After a successful outing in Theri, the Kaththi actor will be seen romancing Keerthi Suresh in his next untitled flick, for which, an overseas distributor is ready to shell out a whopping 22 Crore rupees, it is reported. This amount is said to have overtaken the price paid for Theri, which was helmed by Atlee. If this hearsay turns out to be true, then we are looking at a film, which might garner Crores of rupees even before its release. While this is not uncommon for a Tamil movie housing a star actor, 'Vijay 60' might surpass the pre-release businesses of some of the recently released high budget movies. Stay tuned for further updates. Also Read: Fan Made Vs Original - Irrfan Khan's Mess Up: Says Rajinikanth's Film 'Kabali' Stole His Film Poster Trisha Krishnan, who is currently busy shooting for horror film Mohini, is still the strongest contender to reprise Kangana Ranaut's role in the Tamil version of critically acclaimed Hindi blockbuster Queen, said a source close to the actress. "The makers have once again initiated talks with Trisha. The project requires bulk dates and Trisha already has two projects in her kitty. She is figuring out how she can set aside dates that will require her to shoot abroad for a long schedule," the source told IANS. Veteran actress-filmmaker Revathy, known for directing films like Mitr, My Friend and Phir Milenge, will helm the yet-untitled remake. Queen is the story of a young Punjabi girl, played by Kangana Ranaut, who embarks on her honeymoon to Paris alone, after her fiance calls off the wedding. Actress Suhasini Mani Ratnam has been roped in to pen the dialogues for the project. The remake will be bankrolled by producer Thiyagarajan. Also Read: 'Amma Kanakku' Is A Big Responsibility On My Shoulders: Amala Paul The countdown has started for Divyanka Tripathi and Vivek Dahiya. The couple's fans are equally excited for the most awaited wedding of the year. With only a few days left, Divyanka and Vivek are trying hard to manage their wedding preparations as well as their shows (Yeh Hai Mohabbatein and Kawach).The actors are keeping their fans updated about their marriage preparations. Recently, a photo of their lovely pre-wedding photoshoot had surfaced online, in which Divyanka looked like a fairy, while Vivek, her prince charming. Check Out The Latest Pictures Of DiVek Posting the picture (Slide 2) from their pre-wedding photoshoot Divyanka wrote, "Divyanka: #CountDown #Begins! #PictureCredit: @sachin113photographer #DivNviV #DivekWeddingDiaries #TheWeddingStory...@vivekdahiya08." The picture had a quote that said, "She was the 'famous' girl loved by billions... Yet she was just a simple girl... Looking for a boy... And on that fateful day she unexpectedly bumped into him... As a twist of fate unfolded their first meeting, here is a sneek peek into the world of that famous 'lost' girl who 'found' her Prince Charming..." The bride and the groom were recently seen all happy, after listening to their wedding trailer track, created exclusively for DiVek Wedding. Vivek took to his social networking account and wrote (Slide 3), "Happy faces right after we heard our "wedding trailer track". It's a soulful composition, exclusively created for Divek:) #TheWeddingStory #DivekWedding #Hurray." Apparently, 80% of DiVek's wedding preparations are complete. The marriage will be held on July 8th, in Divyanka's hometown Bhopal, followed by reception in Chandigarh. The reception will also be organised for family and friends in Mumbai. (Images Source: Instagram) Stay locked to this space for the latest updates.... SINGAPORE -- (Marketwired) -- 06/29/16 -- OutSystems, a leading enterprise Rapid Application Development (RAD) platform provider, today announced an Alliance Agreement with Deloitte Consultores S.A.* (a Portuguese firm of Deloitte), which also enables other Deloitte member firms from around the world to join. Deloitte Consultores S.A. has, with this agreement, become an OutSystems Center of Competence, because it has accomplished the necessary requirements, namely the number of certified people at different levels and successful projects. Carlos Alves, Vice President of Global Sales at OutSystems says, "Deloitte Consultores, S.A.'s relationships with companies across a wide range of industries, combined with our low-code application platform, can help propel enterprises in the digital transformation of their business." According to Rui Pedro Vaz, Partner at Deloitte Consultores S.A., "Many of our clients, independently of their industry focus, need to solve a variety of business challenges. This is something we are intimate with on a daily basis. OutSystems Platform can help reduce the cost and time to build mobile native apps and web applications. The Platform responds to the market demand of bi-modal delivery speed, which is required for the coexistence of a core legacy ecosystem with a growing demand for agile and digital transformation. Through the creation of an abstraction layer that allows a smooth integration with existing legacy systems, OutSystems Platform provides solutions that offer flexibility with low risk." With OutSystems Platform, businesses can rapidly achieve significant results with lower costs that also extend a wide range of corporate solutions, including ERP, SRM, CRM, and others. By building innovative solutions for B2B, B2C or B2E, companies can more efficiently solve business problems, enhance products and services, increase their competitiveness, and improve customer, employee and partner relationships. Vaz explained, "We can create assets for different industries that can be customized and adapted to our customers' needs. We no longer have to start a project from scratch, so time to market becomes weeks, or even days, not months." The OutSystems Deloitte Consultores S.A. alliance announcement comes upon other recent news events. OutSystems was recently recognized as a Leader in The Forrester Wave: Low-Code Development Platforms, Q2 2016. OutSystems received the highest score in the current offering category and was among the highest scores in the strategy category. OutSystems Platform was also recognized by the Software & Information Industry Association with a 2016 SIIA CODiE Award for Best Mobile Development Solution for excellence in mobile application development. *Deloitte Consultores S.A. is a Portuguese firm of Deloitte rendering consulting services in the areas of strategy and operations, technology, human capital and financial advisory services. Company Logo http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/4964 About OutSystems Thousands of customers around the world trust OutSystems as the number one low-code platform for rapid application development. The only solution to combine visual full-stack app dev with continuous lifecycle management, OutSystems is the fastest way to deliver enterprise-grade multi-channel applications. The result - OutSystems customers are transforming their businesses by delivering applications 6 to 10 times faster compared to traditional application development. Visit us at www.outsystems.com, or follow us on Twitter @OutSystems or LinkedIn. For media enquiries, please contact: Jeraldine Kon OutSystems APAC Email Contact +65 9726 5546 Lewis Moh Allison+Partners Email Contact +65 9788 6767 NEW YORK CITY (dpa-AFX) - Morgan Stanley (MS) announced that it received no objection from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to the Firm's 2016 Capital Plan. The capital plan includes the repurchase of up to $3.5 billion of outstanding common stock for the four quarters beginning in the third quarter of 2016 through the end of the second quarter of 2017, an increase from $2.5 billion for the comparable four quarter period in the 2015 Capital Plan, as well as an increase in the Firm's quarterly common stock dividend to $0.20 per share from the current $0.15 per share, beginning with the common stock dividend expected to be declared for the third quarter of 2016. In addition, the Firm is considering the possible redemption of other capital securities. The Federal Reserve Board also asked the Firm to submit an additional capital plan by December 29, 2016 addressing weaknesses identified in the Firm's capital planning process. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Mundoro Capital Inc. (TSX VENTURE: MUN) (www.mundoro.com) ("Mundoro" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that 16,290,261 common shares representing 37% of the total number of shares issued and outstanding were voted at its Annual General Meeting held on June 28, 2016 (the "Meeting"). Resulting from the Meeting, the following nominees to the Board have been elected by the shareholders: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Director Percentage of Nominee Votes Cast ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- John Hoey 94.96% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Teo Dechev 96.51% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Calyniuk 96.51% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Graham Brown 93.88% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Prior to the commencement of the Meeting, Michael Sheridan resigned from the board and withdrew his name as nominee for election as director at the Meeting due to personal reasons. As a result, he was not elected to the board. Mr. Hoey, Chairman of the Company stated, "On behalf of the Board, we would like to thank Mr. Sheridan for his years of service on Mundoro's Board of Directors and wishes him well in his future endeavors." Furthermore, the Company issued 1,107,500 stock options to its directors, officers and staff on June 28, 2016. The stock options were issued in accordance with Mundoro's Stock Option Plan and are exercisable into common shares of Mundoro at $0.125 (being the closing price on the TSX Venture Exchange on June 27, 2015) over a five-year term. For the option grants, 369,167 vest immediately on the day the options were granted ("Grant Date"), 369,167 vest twelve (12) months after the Grant Date and the final 369,167 vest twenty four (24) months after the Grant Date. Following the grant, the total number of options outstanding under the Company's Stock Option Plan are 3,737,500. The last option grant the Company made was in January 2015. Shareholders also approved the re-appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as auditors of the Company for the ensuing year at the remuneration to be fixed by the directors. The Company's shareholders voted in favor of all matters brought before the meeting. The results of voting will be filed at www.sedar.com. About Mundoro Mundoro is a Canadian-based public company which is focused on generating value for its shareholders through utilizing the collective expertise of our directors, management and technical staff to invest in mineral projects that have the ability to generate future cash. On behalf of the Company, Teo Dechev, Chief Executive Officer, President and Director Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This News Release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "will", "expect", "intend", "plan", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe" or "continue" or similar words or the negative thereof. The material assumptions that were applied in making the forward looking statements in this News Release include expectations as to the mineral potential of the Timok North Properties, the Company's future strategy and business plan and execution of the Company's existing plans. We caution readers of this News Release not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements contained in this News Release, as there can be no assurance that they will occur and they are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include general economic and market conditions, exploration results, commodity prices, changes in law, regulatory processes, the status of Mundoro's assets and financial condition, actions of competitors and the ability to implement business strategies and pursue business opportunities. The forward-looking statements contained in this News Release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements included in this News Release are made as of the date of this News Release and the Board undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Shareholders are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and for a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to the Company's filings with the Canadian securities regulators available on www.sedar.com. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Contacts: Mundoro Capital Inc. Teo Dechev CEO, President and Director +1-604-669-8055 www.mundoro.com A recent settlement between Promega Corporation and Genovis AB maintains full freedom for the continued offering of Promega's IdeS and IdeZ Proteases for markets worldwide. In November of 2014, Genovis and Hansa Medical AB filed a patent infringement suit in the U.S. While the details of the settlement are confidential, it allows for continued manufacture, sale and support of IdeS and IdeZ by Promega. These products are used by scientists worldwide for a host of applications including early stage characterization of potential therapeutic antibodies that may someday be important for treating different diseases. The settlement allows that work to continue without interruption. About Promega Promega Corporation is a leader in providing innovative solutions and technical support to the life sciences industry. The company's 3,500 products enable scientists worldwide to advance their knowledge in genomics, proteomics, cellular analysis, drug discovery and human identification. Founded in 1978, the company is headquartered in Madison, WI, USA with branches in 16 countries and over 50 global distributors. For more information about Promega, visit www.promega.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160629006456/en/ Contacts: Promega Corporation Penny Patterson Sr. Director, Communications Phone: (608) 274-4330 E-mail: penny.patterson@promega.com MONTREAL, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- WSP Global Inc. (TSX: WSP) ("WSP" or the "Corporation") announced today that it has terminated efforts to acquire Sweett Group plc (AIM: CSG.L) ("Sweett"), including confirming that it will not be increasing the offer price of 35 pence per Sweett Share. No further financial offers or overtures to meet with the Sweett board of directors are planned at this time. ABOUT WSP As one of the world's leading professional services firms, WSP provides technical expertise and strategic advice to clients in the Property & Buildings, Transportation & Infrastructure, Environment, Industry, Resources (including Mining and Oil & Gas) and Power & Energy sectors. WSP also offers highly specialised services in project delivery and strategic consulting. Its experts include engineers, advisors, technicians, scientists, architects, planners, surveyors and environmental specialists, as well as other design, program and construction management professionals. With approximately 34,000 people in 500 offices across 40 countries, WSP is well positioned to deliver successful and sustainable projects under its WSP and WSP / Parsons Brinckerhoff brands. www.wsp-pb.com. Forward-looking statements Certain information regarding WSP contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although WSP believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and may be based on assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. WSP's forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The complete version of the cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements as well as a description of the relevant assumptions and risk factors likely to affect WSP's actual or projected results are included in the Management Discussion and Analysis for the first quarter of 2016 ended March 26, 2016, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and WSP does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless expressly required by applicable securities laws. Contacts: Alexandre L'Heureux Chief Financial Officer WSP Global Inc. 514-340-0046, ext. 5310 alexandre.lheureux@wspgroup.com Isabelle Adjahi Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications WSP Global Inc. 514-340-0046, ext. 5648 isabelle.adjahi@wspgroup.com YANGON, Myanmar, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Local telecom brand MPT most loved amongst 42 key brands while global entrants are valued for their differentiation and innovation WPP and Millward Brown today released the BrandZ inaugural Spotlight on Myanmar, exploring critical business insights into the world's fastest-growing economy and the evolving psyche behind Myanmar's 51 million consumers. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151014/276726LOGO ) In a nascent marketplace where local brands hold their own against foreign competitors, Apple has emerged as the most differentiated brand whereas local telecom player MPT ranks as the most loved. Brands like mobile provider Telenor have also earned recognition for innovation, despite being a recent market entrant. Myanmar's rapid transformation also means businesses need to ready themselves for game-changing scenarios propelled by technology and infrastructure advancements. Myanmar is set to become the first country in the world to go straight to smartphone as part of its "leapfrog" development. Key changes affecting marketing and brands include the rise from almost zero mobile penetration to nearly 50% in just a couple of years. Technology will likely direct a new generation of digital growth, from retail to banking to social communications. The Spotlight on Myanmar findings are based on everyday buying decisions such as coffee, soft drinks as well as long-term purchase decisions around mobile service and handset sectors. Research shows that the most effective messages come from brands that put their products and benefits front and centre. Key differentiators behind the strongest brands are those that project idealism, desirability and a sense of adventure. BrandZ research in Myanmar includes 1,660 consumer interviews and covers 42 key international and regional brands that are already building a sense of meaningful difference in Myanmar, based on either their global profile or their local activity. Findings show that: Apple is the most differentiated brand in Myanmar followed by Coca-Cola and Samsung. Apple indexed 232, where the average brand indexes at 100. followed by Coca-Cola and Samsung. Apple indexed 232, where the average brand indexes at 100. Mobile network Telenor is the most innovative brand in the survey, indexing 125, with rivals MPT and Ooredoo coming second and third respectively. MPT is the most loved brand in the survey, indexing 129, nine points ahead of Samsung and 11 points ahead of Telenor and Huawei. Samsung's brand proposition scored the highest at129, ahead of Apple on 125 and MPT on 118. Huawei scored highest on brand power -a brand's ability to boost sales or gain market share due to consumers' predisposition to choose this brand over another - indexing 436, significantly higher than its global average score of 81. Huawei performs better in Myanmar than it does in its home market, China , on this measure. "There are huge opportunities for international brands to be successful in Myanmar, if they get their cultural message right and understand the diversity of the country, particularly in the border areas. Our teams have identified comparisons with the India of 30 years ago and indeed some aspects of rural India today. Also valid are comparisons with Indonesia, which also has a large population that lives off the land as well as a huge range of different climatic regions," said David Roth, CEO at The Store, EMEA and Asia. The report also highlighted a number of key trends that will change how brands and agencies should approach this market, now and in the next few years, including: Rapid improvement in infrastructure. It has taken just three years to build a national mobile network; other changes including the arrival of greater electrification and improved transportation links will happen much faster than would be expected in many markets. e-tailing is coming. Despite the current poor retail infrastructure, the rapid growth in e-commerce in other developing markets acts as an indicator that the speed will be similar in Myanmar . . The world's first mobile-only market. Consumers are increasingly looking to mobile for both information and entertainment. While TV is important, brands need to consider Myanmar as not just a mobile-first environment but also a mobile only market. as not just a mobile-first environment but also a mobile only market. Sell the effect, not the spec. Consumers are new to choice in Myanmar so they will navigate the new landscape differently. Brands need to focus on how the product will meet their needs and make it easier to compare functions and prices. so they will navigate the new landscape differently. Brands need to focus on how the product will meet their needs and make it easier to compare functions and prices. Appreciate the diversity of Myanmar . This is not a homogenous nation. Although 88% of the urban population is Buddhist, there is a huge range of ethnic, climatic and cultural variety, which will be particularly critical in the personal care sector. "BrandZ's first research in Myanmar will help international and regional marketers understand the challenge of building strong brands in this new market. Experience in other fast emerging markets shows that first mover advantage and the loyalty it engenders in consumers can last for decades. Myanmar is a long-term commitment but one that will pay off for the brands that get it right," said Doreen Wang, Head of BrandZ, from Millward Brown. NOTES TO EDITORS: BrandZ' Spotlight on Myanmar is part of the suite of BrandZ rankings which also includes the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands, the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Chinese Brands, the BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Indonesian brands, the BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Latin American Brands and the BrandZ Top 50 Most Valuable Indian Brands. Background and methodology The brand valuation behind the Top 100 was conducted by Millward Brown. The methodology mirrors that used to calculate the annual BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands ranking, which reached its tenth year of publication in 2015. The BrandZ rankings are the only valuations in the world that take into account what people think about the brands they buy, alongside rigorous analysis of financial data, market valuations, analyst reports and risk profiles. Consumer perception of a brand is a key input in determining brand value, because brands are a combination of business performance, product delivery, clarity of positioning and leadership. About Millward Brown Millward Brown is a leading global research agency specializing in advertising effectiveness, strategic communication, media and brand equity research. Millward Brown helps clients grow great brands through comprehensive research-based qualitative and quantitative solutions. Specialist global practices include Millward Brown Digital (a leader in digital effectiveness), Firefly Millward Brown (our global qualitative network), a Neuroscience Practice (using neuroscience to optimize the value of traditional research techniques), and Millward Brown Vermeer (a strategy consultancy helping companies maximize financial returns on brand and marketing investments). Millward Brown operates in more than 55 countries and is part of Kantar, WPP's data investment management division. Learn more at http://www.millwardbrown.com. About WPP WPP is the world's largest communications services group with billings of US$73 billion and revenues of US$19 billion. Through its operating companies, the Group provides a comprehensive range of advertising and marketing services including advertising & media investment management; data investment management; public relations & public affairs; branding & identity; healthcare communications; direct, digital, promotion & relationship marketing and specialist communications. The company employs 194,000 people (including associates and investments) in over 3,000 offices across 112 countries. For more information, visit http://www.wpp.com . WPP was named Holding Company of the Year at the 2016 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity for the sixth year running. WPP was also named, for the fifth consecutive year, the World's Most Effective Holding Company in the 2016 Effie Effectiveness Index, which recognizes the effectiveness of marketing communications. In 2016 WPP was recognised by Warc 100 as the World's Top Holding Company (second year running). For further information please contact: Lisa Parente Vice President, Global Content Marketing, Millward Brown Tel: +1-617-598-5328 Email: lisa.parente@millwardbrown.com Or Teresa Horscroft or Alastair Ray Eureka Communications Tel: +44(0)1420-564346 Email: teresa@eurekacomms.co.uk / alastair@eurekacomms.co.uk Regulatory News: In September 2013, SAS sold 80% of the shares in Widere AS (Widere) to WF Holding AS (WF Holding), an investment company controlled by Torghatten ASA. At the same time SAS informed that the remaining shares would be divested during 2016. SAS has now together with the WF Holding agreed to sell the remaining holding of 20% to WF Holding according to the sales agreement. The shares are transferred on 30 June 2016. The transfer of shares will not affect SAS's earnings or cash position during fiscal year 2015/2016. Widere will continue to be a regional partner to SAS. SAS Investor Relations SAS is publishing this information in accordance with the Swedish Securities Market Act and/or the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act. This information was submitted for publication on June 30, 2016, at 08.00. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160629006610/en/ Contacts: SAS press duty telephone +46 (0)8 7972944 LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Tullow Oil Plc. (TLW.L) said that TEN Project is expected to deliver first oil within the next three to six weeks. This transformational project has remained on schedule and on budget since it began in 2013. The transformational project has remained on schedule and on budget since it began in 2013. Production at Jubilee has stabilised with a gross rate in June of around 90,000 bopd. In the first half of 2016, Tullow's West Africa working interest oil production averaged 51,900 bopd. This is below previous guidance due to lower production from the Jubilee field in Ghana, following issues with the FPSO turret identified in February. Jubilee gross average production in the second half of 2016 is expected to be around 85,000 bopd (net: 30,200 bopd). Tullow therefore expects average gross production for the Jubilee field in 2016 to be around 74,000 bopd (net: 26,300 bopd). As a consequence, Tullow's West Africa oil production guidance range is revised to 62-68,000 bopd net. Tullow however has a comprehensive package of insurances in place which includes Business Interruption insurance which covers consequent loss of production and revenue from Jubilee. In Europe, working interest gas production for the first half of 2016 was above expectations averaging 6,800 boepd. Full year guidance has been revised to 6-7,000 boepd. The Group's 2016 capital expenditure guidance remains at $1.0 billion with further savings being offset by additional capex associated with the Jubilee turret issue ahead of potential insurance payments and the start of a new drilling campaign in Kenya. The Group also agreed a twelve month extension to the maturity of the Corporate Facility to April 2018. The Corporate Facility commitments remain at $1 billion until April 2017, when commitments reduce to $800 million with an accordion feature for an additional amount of $200 million. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de Transaction Marks the Fourth Completed Investment in Six Months OpenGate Capital, a global private equity firm, announced today that it has completed the acquisition of Alfatherm S.p.A. ("Alfatherm") just nine days after signing a definitive agreement with Emerald and PM Partners, the shareholders and current debt holders for the acquisition. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Alfatherm will benefit from OpenGate Capital's operational experience in the European PVC market that have been developed through the firm's pre-fund investments. Under OpenGate's stewardship, several initiatives will be implemented to leverage Alfatherm's market position while improving upon the operations and manufacturing processes of the business. Andrew Nikou, founder, Managing Partner and CEO at OpenGate Capital, commented, "Our interest in acquiring Alfatherm began nearly three years ago at a time when we saw a lot of opportunities in the European PVC sector. The Alfatherm business was really interesting to us, and the completion of the acquisition today reflects our firm's philosophy of working with sellers to solve the unique demands for every transaction. I am incredibly proud of our team for staying the course over the past two and a half years, and welcome Alfatherm into the OpenGate family of companies." Alfatherm was established more than 50 years ago and is the fourth largest European PVC film manufacturer, focused on the production and sale of rigid, semi-rigid and flexible PVC films that are used for various applications. The business operates three manufacturing sites in the Milan area and has long-term customer relations that reach across 60 countries. Alfatherm products are concentrated across five main business units including: Surface decorations Capsules and sleeves Packaging Adhesive tapes Stationery OpenGate Capital has previously invested in the European PVC chemical space through its pre-fund acquisitions including Kem One SAS, Kem One Innovative Vinyls, Benvic and Profialis. In March of this year, OpenGate announced that through its private equity fund it acquired Energi Fenestration Solutions, a North American manufacturer of rigid PVC window profiles and patio doors. Alfatherm is headquartered in Varese, Italy, generates nearly 100 million in revenue, and has approximately 400 employees. About OpenGate Capital OpenGate Capital is a global private equity firm specializing in the acquisition and operation of businesses seeking revitalization through growth and operational improvements. Established in 2005, OpenGate Capital is headquartered in Los Angeles, California and has a European office in Paris, France. OpenGate's professionals possess the critical skills needed to acquire, transition, operate and build successful businesses. To date, OpenGate Capital has executed more than 40 transactions ranging from corporate divestitures to turnaround acquisitions, industry consolidations and other special situation investments. For more information, please visit www.opengatecapital.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005107/en/ Contacts: OpenGate Media Contact Alanna Chaffin, +1 (310) 432-7000 achaffin@opengatecapital.com or OpenGate Business Development Contact Joshua Adams, +1 (310) 432-7000 jadams@opengatecapital.com ZURICH, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- A long-term study by theSwissResearch Instituteof Organic Agriculture (FiBL) in Kenya has shown clearly that organic agriculturenot only generates comparable yields, butproducesmoreincome for farmers than conventional methods. The 10-year study in Thika and Chuka was conducted with local partners since 2007. It contradicts the myth that organic needs more space to achieve similar yields. With input costs lower for organic agriculture and higher prices on the markets, incomes for organic farmers start to be higher after five years and reach a 63% higher benefit in the sixth year. (Logo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160624/383319LOGO) Another important factor determined by the study is the better soil fertility in organic farming. In addition, the absence of chemical inputs in organic farming systems have beneficial effects on ecosystems as well as on the health of people since there are no harmful chemical residues. Parallel studies in India on the production of cotton and Bolivia on the production of coffee showed similarly positive results for the organic approach. The long-term Farming Systems Comparison in the Tropics (SysCom) is aimed at providing scientific evidence on the benefits and drawbacks of organic versus conventional farming systems. The objective is to support the development of policies and strategies that foster the adoption of sustainable land use practices at a local, regional and international level. The study shows clearly that the organic approach is a viable strategy in the tropics, with knowledge dissemination and training in organic farming being one of the crucial challenges. Knowledge dissemination has been the main thrust of the efforts of Biovision Foundation in supporting smallholders in East Africa to improve their livelihood. Biovision Foundation is supporting the long-term study in Kenya financially, together with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the Liechtenstein Development Service and the Swiss supermarket chain Coop. In addition to the long-term research, which will continue at least up to 2019, the approach of participatory on-farm research is used to develop and promote locally adapted agricultural practices for sustainable farming. Together with local farmers and other stakeholders, different field trials are implemented to test and analyse different innovative practices on-farm and on-station. For additional information, downloadable graphs and pictures, please go to: (http://www.systems-comparison.fibl.org http://www.biovision.ch LONDON, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- http://www.patientpower.eu/acute-lymphoblastic-leukaemia/ http://www.patientpower.eu/acute-myeloid-leukaemia/ A unique collaboration between some of the world's leading leukaemia experts and the patient community in the UK and across Europe has resulted in the development of a one-of-a-kind educational resource centre that provides acute leukaemia patients with the support they need, when they need it most. To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/uk/7850551-leukaemia-online-information-centre/ It is the first time that such a comprehensive medical information video resource has been gathered together in this format and comes at a time when cancer patients and caregivers are advocating for a bigger say in decisions about their individual treatment regimens. Some of the world's leading experts in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) have been brought together on a new video-rich website to advise patients on what to expect when diagnosed with acute leukaemia, how to make sure they get the best possible care from their healthcare providers, and how to make the right decisions about treatment. In addition, they provide practical tips on living well with cancer, and coping with life in remission and survivorship - something that the patient community needs in order to feel empowered, so that they can maintain as high a quality of life as possible. Leukaemia is the 12th most common cancer in Europe, with 82,000 new cases diagnosed in 2012 (1). While death rates are slowly falling, patients with AML have a 5-year survival rate of 25% (2) and patients with ALL have a 5-year survival rate of 70% (3); access to new treatments and clinical trials often depends on where they live. Now, the London-based team from a leading cancer patient channel Patient Power has developed a new and independent online video 'hub', where patients can be directed to the support networks of over 100 European acute leukaemia groups and charities, as well as expert advice and the very latest insights into what to expect on their journey with acute leukaemia. Most importantly, the panel of experts from the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Canada and the US provides insights into how to get the bestfrom ahealthcare team, including what questions patients and caregivers should be asking, what they should expect, and the steps they should take to ensure they are receiving the best possible treatment. The founder of Patient Power, Andrew Schorr, himself a two-time cancer survivor, says that the internet has given patients access to medical information and the ability to research their disease in great detail. "Patients can be suspicious of educational programmes run by industry and often confused by communication to and from healthcare professionals," he said, "As a result there is an unmet need for patients to find reliable, trustworthy sources of information online. We have given patients a voice to ask questions directly to leading healthcare experts." Charlie Grieve, Managing Partner of Patient Power Europe, highlights the importance of collaboration among European non-profit partners for the successful delivery of the project. "Through collaboration between patient groups and leadingcancer experts, we have created these engaging new online health centres , rich with information for European and international patients. I know this educational resource can provide patients and caregivers with knowledge, confidence and hope. We're already seeing many thousands of views and seeing a very positive interaction on the website and social channels in multiple languages. The next phase of the project will see increased content publishing, with a wider range of topics covered, andadditional languages." The new initiative has received support from medical professions and charities alike. Professor Alan Burnett, from Cardiff University, who is one of 15 cancer experts that contributed to this new initiative, said, "With all the new things happening in diagnosis, prognostication, trials and the effects of treatment, it is very important that patients can be provided with information about their disease, its effects and what having certain treatments involves. Patients must be given confidence in the pathway ahead." http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/leukaemia http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/acute-myeloid-leukemia-survival-rates-prognosis#5 http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/type/all/treatment/statistics-and-outlook-for-acute-lymphoblastic-leukaemia (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160608/377004 ) Video: http://www.multivu.com/players/uk/7850551-leukaemia-online-information-centre/ LONDON, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- From traders to children - anyoption's core values and actions intersect to help underprivileged children thrive. By partnering with UNICEF, anyoption will help those in need become true success stories. anyoption's vision and core values include social awareness and actions to address global issues to make a difference and improve children's lives worldwide. anyoption supports UNICEF's values and principles and is committed to support UNICEF's work for children. Children are the future and UNICEF is an ideal channel through which we can assist in achieving anyoption's goals in giving back to the global community. UNICEF has a long history of promoting the rights and developing the lives of children in 190 nations around the world. From giving emergency aid to children after World War II to battling serious diseases - UNICEF has been working on behalf of children for 70 years. anyoption's CEO Shy Datica stated, "We aim to develop a plan that will rapidly mobilize awareness-raising and fundraising for UNICEF in emergency humanitarian and disaster-relief situations. In fact, our contribution to UNICEF helps children through their various activities and we're pleased that this enhances our humanitarian mission." anyoption's core values involves paying careful attention to global and local regulation, personal relationships and the safety and security of their clients. anyoption sees their client's success as a key to their business in the same way they strive to help make the world a better place for generations to come. anyoption is an innovative, industry leader and they hope that their trader's success will ultimately have an impact on the bigger picture as they continue their humanitarian mission with UNICEF to enhance the lives of those who are so desperately in need. anyoption wants to essentially enlarge the chain of their success so it stretches above and beyond the success of many of their clients, beyond their company and employees success but to enlarge our vision to include people with little opportunity for survival let alone hope for 'success.' Learn more about anyoption's corporate social responsibility and donation to UNICEF: http://www.anyoption.com/unicef-responsibility . About anyoption' anyoption's trading platform is operated by Ouroboros Derivatives Trading Ltd., a registered European investment firm authorized and regulated by CySEC under License number: 187/12. anyoption's license is a regulated full market maker, enabling the company to offer the highest level of financial services on par with licenses issued by the EU's regulators including the British FSA, French AMF and Italy's CONSOB. anyoption is the only binary options platform regulated under FSB, Financial Services Board, an independent institution in the South African non-banking financial service industry. Contact: Elise Blanford +44-(0)20-8099-7262 pr@anyoption.com BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - Switzerland's KOF leading indicator for June is due to be released at 3:00 am ET Thursday. Ahead of the data, the Swiss franc showed mixed trading against its major rivals. While the Swiss franc rose against the U.S. dollar, it fell against the pound, the euro and the yen. As of 2:55 am ET, the Swiss franc was trading at 1.0886 against the euro, 1.3170 against the pound, 0.9798 against the U.S. dollar and 104.72 against the yen. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. DARMSTADT, Germany, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Not intended for U.S. based media New partners are joining founding members Merck, Illumina and Genea to support standardization of processes in assisted reproductive treatment laboratories Update on the alliance's activities to be presented at ESHRE Merck, a leading science and technology company, today announced together with Illumina Inc., San Diego, US, and Genea Limited, Sydney, Australia, that the Global Fertility Alliance welcomed two new members. The alliance is a collaboration to advance excellence in fertility technologies and processes within the assisted reproductive treatment (ART) laboratory. Effective immediately, ZEISS, Oberkochen, Germany, an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the optics and optoelectronics industries, and Hamilton Thorne Ltd., Beverly, Massachusetts, US, a leading provider of precision laser devices and advanced image analysis systems for ART, regenerative medicine and developmental biology research markets, are joining the alliance and its quest to improve the consistency in ART laboratories worldwide. Following the announcement of the alliance's formation at the 2015 Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), an update on the alliance's activities will be presented at this year's ESHRE in Helsinki, Finland (3-6 July, 2016). (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160629/384915LOGO ) (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160629/384916LOGO ) "Through our work with the fertility community, we know that ART outcomes strongly depend on routines and technologies applied in laboratories. As such, we are committed to overcoming current variation in ART practices and techniques," explained Rehan Verjee, Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer at Merck's biopharma business. "We are working in the alliance to support the development of global standards in ART laboratories. We understand this as a critical factor for ensuring a consistently high level of performance across centers and countries, ultimately supporting the goal of women and couples of having a baby." Seeing the importance of recognizing innovation in ART technologies, the Global Fertility Alliance was founded by Merck together with two strategic partners: Illumina, a leader in developing and commercializing systems for analysis of genetic variation and function, and Genea, a developer of innovative fertility technologies. The collaboration is part of Merck's Fertility Technologies strategy to partner with experts in the field to address unmet needs together and support the market with innovations, with a clear focus on extending its product portfolio for the benefit of the fertility community. "ZEISS has a strong heritage in the development of specialized microscopes and we are committed to using our expertise in this field to drive the standardization of ART processes and techniques further," commented Peter Kraemer, Director Market Segment Education & Routine at ZEISS Microscopy Business Group. "We are impressed by the alliance's progress so far and look forward to contributing to improvements in ART practices through technology innovation." "As a pioneer in the field of developing instruments for the in vitro fertilization clinic, advancing the science of fertility treatment is in the DNA of our company," said David Wolf, CEO of Hamilton Thorne. "With excellence in ART as its tenet, the goal of the Global Fertility Alliance is to drive automation and standardization in fertility laboratories worldwide to promote better outcomes for patients." The collaboration partners are aiming to welcome further members which share the common objectives and complement the expertise of the existing partner companies. About the Global Fertility Alliance Recognizing the importance of innovation in ART technologies, the alliance aims to enhance progress and innovation in three ways. Firstly, the founding members aim to foster integration of multiple, leading fertility technologies. Secondly, building on this, the alliance will aim to collaborate with leading health care professionals and medical societies to develop global standards. And finally, as technologies in the fertility space are rapidly advancing, the alliance will also develop educational resources for health care professionals worldwide. These efforts will include training curricula and workshops as well as access to model labs, symposia and events at medical meetings. The Global Fertility Alliance was launched at the 31st Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) in June 2015. First members besides Merck were Illumina, a leader in developing and commercializing systems for analysis of genetic variation and function, and Genea, a developer of innovative fertility technologies. About ZEISS ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the optics and optoelectronics industries. The ZEISS Group develops and distributes semiconductor manufacturing equipment, measuring technology, microscopes, medical technology, eyeglass lenses, camera and cine lenses, binoculars and planetarium technology. With its solutions, the company constantly advances the world of optics and helps shape technological progress. ZEISS is divided up into the four segments Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Research & Quality Technology, Medical Technology, and Vision Care/Consumer Optics. ZEISS is represented in over 40 countries and operates more than 30 production sites, over 50 sales and service locations and about 25 research and development facilities. In fiscal year 2014/15 the company generated revenue approximating 4.5 billion with around 25,000 employees. Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany. Carl Zeiss AG is the strategic management holding company that manages the ZEISS Group. The company is wholly owned by the Carl Zeiss Stiftung (Carl Zeiss Foundation). About Hamilton Thorne Ltd. Hamilton Thorne designs, manufactures and distributes precision laser devices and advanced imaging systems that reduce cost, increase productivity, improve results and enable breakthroughs in the assisted reproduction, regenerative medicine and developmental biology research markets. Hamilton Thorne's laser products attach to standard inverted microscopes and operate as robotic micro-surgeons, enabling a wide array of scientific applications and IVF procedures. Its imaging systems improve outcomes in human IVF clinics and animal breeding facilities and provide high-end toxicology analyses. Hamilton Thorne's growing worldwide customer base consists of pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, fertility clinics, university research centers, animal breeding companies, and other commercial and academic research establishments, including Harvard, MIT, Yale, McGill, Oxford, Cambridge, the Smithsonian Institution, Charles River Labs, Covance, ABS Global, Sexing Technologies, Novartis, Pfizer, and Dow Chemical. All Merck Press Releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Website. Please go to http://www.merckgroup.com/subscribe to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service. About Merck Merck is a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials. Around 50,000 employees work to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life - from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions. In 2015, Merck generated sales of 12.85 billion in 66 countries. Founded in 1668, Merck is the world's oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed corporate group. Merck, Darmstadt, Germany holds the global rights to the Merck name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the company operates as EMD Serono, MilliporeSigma and EMD Performance Materials. Your Contact Bettina Frank +49-6151-72-4660 BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - The New Zealand dollar retreated from its previous highs against most major rivals in European morning deals on Thursday. The kiwi pared gains to 0.7057 against the greenback and 1.5710 against the euro, from its previous highs of 0.7124 and 1.5577,respectively. The kiwi, having advanced to a 6-day high of 73.32 against Japanese yen at 5:15 pm ET, reversed direction and declined to 72.34. The kiwi is likely to find support around 0.68 against the greenback, 70.00 against the yen and 1.585 against the euro. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. LONDON, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Family firm MSF-Vathauer Antriebstechnik were celebrating this week after Marc Vathauer came first in the Business Worldwide Magazine's CEO of the Year 2016 - Germany. As the man in charge since 2006, he has managed to keep the 38-year-old firm a leading player in the customised drive technology sector for industry. This is achieved through constantly striving for ever-increasing innovation. "I am delighted with this award," he said. "It's nice to get recognition, I don't mean for myself, but everyone here at MSF-Vathauer. I have always believed that a good CEO involves his staff in decision-making and keeps them informed as much as possible. Letting them know how valued they are is another 'must.'" His industry, he conceded, was a rapidly advancing one. "There is no doubt that the need for faster, more flexible and smarter drive technology increases with every passing year," he said. "Together with the team here I enjoy the challenge of being presented with a problem from a client then going away and designing a solution which will make that business operate more efficiently and in a far more cost-effective manner." MSF-Vathauer could indeed be described as the 'dream' company, thanks to their 24/7 repair and maintenance system, which includes delivering spare parts for broken machinery. They will also carry out specific on-site training for clients. A former accountant for Porsche, Vathauer studied at the University of Paderborn in Germany and is currently studying for a PhD at the University of Portsmouth in the UK. He has plans to expand internationally - thanks to the continued advancement of e-commerce on a global scale. The company - which has its HQ in Detmold, Central Germany - has two other subsidiaries, one of which is in Poland. Meanwhile, the team has already received worldwide recognition - and awards - for its Energy Recovery System (ERS). This is a device which 'recycles' kinetic energy back into machinery and can be used on either new automated systems or retrofitted. It boasts a 98 per cent efficiency rate and is currently used in conveyancing systems, elevators and robotic automation applications. It's clear this family-run firm - other family members work in the strategic innovation department, accountancy and production - is itself a driving force within its sector and one to keep an eye on as industry, and e-commerce in particular, expands. Find out more about the company at their website http://www.msf-technik.de/en today. An article on the company can also be found on BWM website http://www.bwmonline.com/2016/05/msf-vathauer-antriebstechnik-innovation-best-drive-automation-customised-drive-solutions/ For more details on Business Worldwide Magazine Awards 2016, go to http://www.bwmonline.com/awards/ About Business Worldwide Magazine Business Worldwide Magazine is the leading source of business and dealmaker intelligence throughout the world. Our quarterly magazine and online news portal enables an established audience of corporate dealmakers to track the latest news, stories and developments affecting the international markets, corporate finance, business strategy and changes in legislation. This readership includes of CEO/CFO - Banks, Corporate Lawyers and Venture Capital/Private Equity Companies to name a few. http://www.bwmonline.com Contact David Jones Awards Department E:david.jones@bwmonline.com W: http://www.bwmonline.com LONDON, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Digi.me, the pioneering start-up revolutionising how consumers and businesses harness the power of personal data, has secured 4.2m ($6.1m) from Series A funding led by global re-insurer Swiss Re. With the new funds digi.me will accelerate the launch of its unique permissioned access platform, which will soon let users bring together wide-ranging data such as health and financial information and share it - if they wish - with businesses in exchange for personalised services, convenience or reward. Businesses who are granted access to this 100% accurate, rich data can develop truly personalised services for their users, increasing both consumer trust and innovation. Digi.me founder and chairman Julian Ranger said: "This is a watershed moment for digi.me and this investment enables us to make the Internet of Me available to everyone, consumers and businesses alike. "This concept, which is better for the individual and also better for businesses who can access rich data with full user permission, while meeting all new data protection rules such as the GDPR, will allow digi.me to accelerate its activities with a number of multi-national companies who we are already working with, and bring further major businesses into our new ecosystem." Daniel Ryan, Head of Digital Analytics Catalysts at Swiss Re, said: "People want to be in control of their data, and many have strong views over what they are willing to share and what they want to keep private. We're excited about digi.me because it will enable people to go one step further, and provide full transparency over how they can use their data to access services and benefits." Digi.me's current version of the app, which gathers pictures and posts from the major social media networks, already has over 400,000 users in 140 countries. It proved that aggregating personal data streams achieves personal insight that is impossible to get when that data is scattered across the web. With the digi.me app, users have their online life at their fingertips with tools including universal search across all platforms, daily flashbacks, the ability to create custom collections of content, data export and more. Digi.me's unique approach and technology also guarantees that all user data remains wholly private to the individual as digi.me doesn't see, touch nor hold any of the personal data downloaded by the user. The successful Series A funding builds on a very strong period of growth, including partnerships with Toshiba, Lenovo and Evernote and the appointment of Jim Pasquale as Executive Vice President North America. Digi.me, which has now raised 7.1m ($10.2m) since launching in 2009, is on course to set up a 'living lab' that will be announced later this year. BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - At 3:55 am ET Thursday, Germany's federal labor agency is scheduled to release unemployment data. The jobless rate is seen unchanged at 6.1 percent in June. Ahead of the data, the euro showed mixed trading against the other major currencies. While the euro declined against the pound, it came off from its early lows against the yen, franc and the greenback. The euro was worth 1.1114 against the greenback, 114.12 against the yen, 1.0895 against the franc and 0.8256 against the pound as of 3:50 am ET. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. TOKYO, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washoku World Challenge (WWC) 2016, a contest of "washoku," or Japanese cooking, limited to foreign nationals, will once again be held this year, hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. The event is designed to identify talented individuals engaged in the field of Japanese cuisine in different countries and regions, and further popularize the special appeal of Japanese food. (Photo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201606271958/) This year marks the fourth such event, and we have begun receiving applications from cooks of non-Japanese nationality to compete in WWC. The deadline for applications is scheduled to be August 31. Ten applicants who have passed the initial screening will participate in the final competition to be held in Tokyo on December 15, 2016. The initial document screening will be held in mid-September, based on the applicants' entry sheets that describe the recipes of their dish. Contestants will be judged comprehensively on how well their dishes fit the characteristics of Japanese cooking, as well as the beauty of appearance, originality and the applicant's approach toward Japanese cuisine. A second screening will be held in early October where the judges sample the dishes re-created, based on the recipes, and select 10 finalists who will go on to the actual competition. In the actual competition, the finalists will be asked to prepare, at the competition venue, the dishes they described in their applications, plus another dish using specified ingredients as their task. A panel of judges comprising culinary experts and renowned individuals will evaluate the contestants based on their culinary techniques, the taste of the dishes, and the degree of perfection achieved. To further spread the popularity of Japanese cuisine and Japanese food ingredients around the world, and make them part of people's everyday living, the presence of cooks from different countries who understand the tastes of local people is essential. WWC aims to discover men and women who offer authentic and delicious Japanese food, and supports their efforts in contributing further to spreading Japanese food and food ingredients. For details on how to apply, please refer to the following website: http://washoku-worldchallenge.jp/2016/en/ For inquiries on application-related matters: http://washoku-worldchallenge.jp/2016/en/index.htmlcontact Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 30, 2016) - Dan Blondal, CEO of Nano One Materials Corp., (TSXV: NNO) (FSE: LBMB) announced today that Nano One will receive support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP). NRC-IRAP will support Nano One's project to develop High Voltage Cobalt Free Cathode Materials and will contribute up to $222,857 in non-dilutive and non-repayable funds between June 1, 2016 and November 30, 2017. "NRC-IRAP has been a valuable contributor on past projects," says Mr. Blondal, "and we are honoured to have their renewed support in developing this important cathode material. In fact, NRC-IRAP's past support led to further innovations in Nano One's processing technology and a patent was filed earlier this month to protect this novel discovery." Mr. Blondal adds that "high voltage long lasting cathodes like this one use low cost raw materials and are of strategic interest to industry players because it can help drive down weight, volume, and cost of battery packs. Under this project, we will be optimizing our patented process for this material in preparation for strategic evaluation and scaled up production in our demonstration pilot plant." Nano One's innovative process improves the production and nanostructure of this high voltage cobalt free material and battery test results are showing more stability and higher conductivity than commercially available materials. This could boost cell capacity, extend longevity and improve safety. Add to that the higher voltage and this material could increase energy and power densities of batteries, reduce the number of battery cells and lower requirements for thermal and charge management. These kinds of advances are critical to next gen automotive and grid storage batteries. Separately, Nano One announces that it has retained the services of Peter Thoma to assist with its investor relations activities and in consideration of the services to be provided, Nano One will pay Mr. Thoma a monthly fee of $2,000. NANO ONE MATERIALS CORP. Dan Blondal, CEO For information with respect to Nano One or the contents of this news release, please contact John Lando (President) at (604) 669-2701 or visit the website at www.nanoone.ca. About Nano One Nano One Materials Corp ("Nano One" or "the Company") is developing novel and scalable processing technology for the low-cost production of high performance battery materials used in electric vehicles, energy storage and consumer electronics. The patented technology can be configured for a wide range of nanostructured materials and has the flexibility to shift with emerging and future battery market trends and a diverse range of other growth opportunities. The novel three-stage process uses equipment common to industry and is being engineered for high volume production and rapid commercialization. Nano One's mission is to establish its patented technology as a leading platform for the global production of a new generation of nanostructured composite materials. For more information, please visit nanoone.ca Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the actual receipt of the grant monies, the execution of the Company's plans which are contingent on the receipt of such monies and the commercialization of the Company's technology and patents. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'plan', 'intend', 'continue', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'should', 'ongoing', or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including: the completion of final documentation with SDTC and the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE BERLIN, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Jan Tibor Lelley and Tobias Grambow After a protracted negotiation and design phase, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) was adopted by the European Parliament on 04/14/2016 and entered into force on 05/24/2016. After 20 years, data protection law is at a whole new level and particularly uniform for the European Union. This regulation will be in application as of 05/25/2018 and replace the EU Data Protection Directive (95/46/EC) which has been in force since 1995. What are the major changes? Harmonization The Regulation aims to provide a unified data protection regime in the European Union, since it will be directly applied in all 28 EU Member States. Implementation by national legislation is not necessary. But there won't be complete harmonization. The GDPR contains opportunities for national, special, and exceptional regulations at more than 50 points within its over 99 articles. Data protection will therefore remain a hodgepodge, albeit one based on unified core values. Scope of application The Regulation also applies to companies based outside the EU, insofar as such companies which are not seated in EU countries offer goods or services to EU citizens or monitor their behavior. Sanctions In cases of violations of the Regulation, companies will face considerable penalties. The fines can amount to four percent of the global corporate turnover or 20 million. Consent With regard to actions that have the consent of the person affected in the processing of personal data, it must be a clearly acknowledged action which was assented to unambiguously, without constraint for the specific case and in knowledge of the facts and which must be revocable at any time with effect for the future. Data Protection Officer Companies are required to appoint a Data Protection Officer, so far as their core activity requires extensive, regular, and systematic monitoring of persons concerned or extensive processing of particularly sensitive data (such as racial or ethnic origin, health data, etc.) due to their business purpose or its scope according to Art. 9, or data on criminal convictions or offenses according to Art. 10 of the GDPR. There will likely be no changes to the previous legal conditions in the Federal Republic of Germany under which a Data Protection Officer must be appointed. Art. 37 Para. (4) of the GDPR contains a corresponding clause for special arrangements by the Member States. It should be noted that in the future, the duty of the Data Protection Officer includes monitoring of compliance with the GDPR so that a significantly higher risk of liability is to be expected for the Data Protection Officer. One-stop shop In the future, EU citizens and companies will need to contact only one Data Protection Authority throughout the EU. This office is obligated to achieve harmonization with the Data Protection Authorities of other countries in the case of transnational aspects of data protection. Registration requirement The company responsible for processing the data must report any data breaches to the competent authority within 72 hours of becoming aware of the privacy violation. Privacy by design / privacy by default Companies need to design their product offers as data-efficiently as possible and offer privacy-friendly default settings. Data protection impact assessment The data protection impact assessment consists of a detailed audit and risk assessment of data processing operations that involve a high potential risk to the rights and freedoms of the data subjects or persons affected. If such a data protection impact assessment shows an actually high risk, the person responsible must take appropriate protective measures or consult the supervisory authority. Security obligation and burden of proof The person responsible for data processing must take and implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure and to prove that the data processing is carried out in accordance with the GDPR. The supervisory authority may inspect the security of the data processing. The establishment of a data protection management system will be required as a rule. What is now important for employers? Art. 88 Para. 1 GDPR contains a clause according to which more specific regulations on data protection in the employment context can be created by the national legislature itself. It is likely that 32 BDSG (modified if necessary) will remain in force for now in the Federal Republic of Germany. A new attempt for detailed codified employment data protection seems unlikely in the near future. But with regard to employee data protection, national rules must comply with the principles of the GDPR, which can be considered a given in Germany due to numerous Higher Court decisions. Furthermore, there is the possibility to process personal data on the basis of a collective agreement. In Germany, these are company agreements and collective agreements in particular. The most important way for personnel management to use company agreements as a permission event for data processing in companies is therefore kept open. The GDPR also clarifies that consent is possible in the employment relationship as well. But it is always a prerequisite that the conclusion of an employment contract, its amendment or the promise of an employer's service is not made subject to a consent for data processing which is not required for this purpose. To be an effective legal basis for data processing, company agreements must, however, meet certain requirements, and are accordingly being redesigned or tailored to the requirements of GDPR. This means that appropriate and specific measures to safeguard the human dignity, legitimate interests, and fundamental rights of the person concerned, especially with regard to the transparency of the processing and transfer of personal data within the corporation and the monitoring systems in the workplace, must be regulated. Even if the time until the GDPR will actually be applied seems far away, companies should deal quickly with the changes in legislation. The substantial tightening of sanctions and resulting increased risk must be taken as an opportunity by companies to analyze the company's data protection systems and develop a suitable data protection management system for ensuring and demonstrating compliance with the GDPR. This is the only way to avoid more stringent requirements of the new regulation bill and existence-threatening fines. From a labor law point of view, employment contracts and company agreements should be checked against and adapted to the EU General Data Protection Regulation. Contact: Dr. Jan Tibor Lelley, LL.M. (Suffolk University Law School) Essen, Frankfurt/Main, Lonon phone: +49-201-1758-0 mail: lelley@buse.de Tobias Grambow Berlin phone: +49-30-327942-37 mail: grambow@buse.de Quercus Assets Selection announces the successful portfolio debt financing of three solar photovoltaic plants: Sidlesham, Burton and Stanton. Santander UK provided 13.6m of portfolio level debt over a 10-year tenor. The transaction places all three plants under the ownership of Quercus Renewable Holding 2, a Quercus-owned holding company. This deal marks an important landmark in Quercus' ongoing consolidation strategy, which aims at driving returns through a meticulous process of financial and operational optimization rooted in the Company's ability to capitalize on its economies of scale. The three plants of Sidlesham, Stanton, and Burton have a combined capacity of 21.3 MW and are located in Chichester, Swindon, and Stratford-upon-Avon, respectively. They were all connected in May 2015 and accredited under Ofgem's Renewable Obligation scheme, valid for 20 years. Their combined annual production amounts to 21 GWh of electricity, which is enough to power nearly 5'000 homes and save up to 9'160 tonnes of CO 2 emissions per year. Diego Biasi, CEO and Co-Founder of Quercus, commented: "We remain constantly focused on delivering clean energy to the UK customer through our local renewable energy plants. We are very happy to partner with Santander and to have negotiated a vital and mutually beneficial deal to optimize our investors' returns on these three plants." Mark Cumbo, Director Infrastructure Renewable Energy, Santander UK, said of the deal: "We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to support the Quercus management team throughout this process and to deliver a bespoke funding package that ultimately helps support their investor group return. We look forward to building on this success and partnering with Quercus on future opportunities." Other counterparts to the financing were Osborne Clarke LLP acting as the Lender's legal adviser and Norton Rose Fulbright LLP acting as Quercus' legal adviser. Notes to Editors Quercus Assets Selection Sarl is the general partner of Quercus Assets Selection S.C.A. SICAV-SIF, a Luxembourg registered fund regulated by the CSSF. Quercus specializes in utility-scale renewable energy infrastructure investments. We provide access to attractive, stable and long-term returns leveraging our unique sourcing abilities and the strength of our management. As well as offering arrangement and asset management services, Quercus also provides value added advisory services to investors interested in allocating capital to renewable energy infrastructure projects. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005485/en/ Contacts: Quercus Investment Partners Gabriele Cappelletti Associate - Sales and Marketing Tel: +44 20 7871 4527 E-mail: gabriele.cappelletti@quercus-partners.com or Instinctif Partners, UK Media Enquiries Mark Walter George Yeomans ?el:+44 (0)20 7457 2020 E-mail: Quercus@instinctif.com North Media Online A/S invests a total of DKK 18 million in Lix Technologies ApS and acquires a 20% stake in the company. This capital and North Media Online A/S' co-ownership are to help Lix realise the ambitious plans of creating the platform of the future for digital learning and textbooks. 30 June 2016Company announcement no 08-16Today, North Media Online A/S ("North Media Online") has entered into an agreement to invest DKK 18 million in Lix Technologies ApS ("Lix"). With this investment, North Media Online will obtain a 20% stake in Lix, which has been founded by entrepreneurs Camilla Hessellund Lastein and Kasper Enggaard Krog. The company has a platform for textbooks on which students have access to more than 100,000 books via www.lix.com. It is possible to buy the books at prices that are lower than through the usual channels, and students may use the platform to take and share notes as well as to avail themselves of a series of other digital learning tools. Today, Lix has 13 employees and is headquartered in Aarhus.The capital invested by North Media Online is to lift Lix to a position of being a strong, global player in the rapidly growing digital textbook market and being tomorrow's learning platform for students.The investment in Lix reflects North Media Online's high digital level of ambitionNorth Media Online's strategic focus is to increase the digital element of its business and add to its portfolio by investing in more digital solutions. Chief Executive Officer of North Media Online, Henrik Lvig, has for some time been in dialogue with Lix, which he considers one of the most promising Danish tech businesses."Lix is a most exciting investment opportunity for North Media Online. With Lix, we enter the field of digital learning and textbooks which is a very large and heavily growing market. The number of students attending further education is increasing rapidly and, globally, it is expected to reach 250 million by 2025. Lix has a strong team, and by combining this with our supplementary competencies and active ownership, we have a shared ambition to scale Lix and so become leaders in the international scene," says Henrik Lvig and continues:"Lix has built and launched a fantastic digital platform and already has contracts with many Danish and international publishers. After a successful test period in spring 2016, Lix is to be rolled out after the school summer holidays to around 30,000 students at Denmark's upper secondary schools, and Lix will also be offered to students at further education institutions in both Denmark and abroad. In this country, a selected group of students has been using the Lix platform since spring 2016 to read their text books in digital form and to take notes and to generally optimise their learning. Lix is well underway to make the same solutions available to students all over the world."Lix sees North Media Online as a perfect partnerThe 23-year-old co-founder of Lix, Camilla Hessellund Lastein, is happy that it was North Media Online, which ended up investing in Lix: "Lix and North Media Online are a perfect match. We will now have an investor who has profound digital space knowledge as well as the competencies needed for the ambitious growth strategy we have defined."Kasper Enggaard Krog, co-founder of Lix, adds: "To Lix, this investment is an important step in our aspiration of becoming a global player. We already have contracts with more than 300 Danish and international publishers, and now Lix is set to reach students in many more markets besides the Danish market."Unchanged earnings expectations for the financial year 2016The investment in Lix will not affect North Media Online's expected EBIT before special items in 2016 which will remain unchanged between a negative DKK 5 million and DKK 0 million. Profit or loss from Lix will be recognised in profit or loss from associates, and the share of profit or loss from Lix is expected to affect profit or loss from associates by a negative DKK 2 million in 2016.For further information, please contact Henrik Lvig, Chief Executive Officer of North Media Online A/S, at +45 61 79 94 31.Yours faithfullyNorth Media A/SKare WighGroup Executive Director & CFO Ingersoll-Rand plc (NYSE:IR), a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments, will release its 2016 second-quarter financial results on Wednesday, July 27, 2016, at 6:30 a.m. ET. On the same day, Michael W. Lamach, chairman and chief executive officer, and Susan K. Carter, senior vice president and chief financial officer, will hold a conference call for analysts and investors, beginning at 10 a.m. ET, to review the company's results. A real-time, listen-only webcast of the conference call will be broadcast live over the Internet. Individuals wishing to listen can access the call through the company's website at www.ingersollrand.com. For those unable to listen to the live event, a replay will be available at approximately 1 p.m. ET, July 27, 2016, on the company's website or by calling (855) 859-2056 or (404) 537-3406 conference code 40556766. The replay by telephone will be available through midnight, August 3, 2016. About Ingersoll Rand Ingersoll Rand (NYSE:IR) advances the quality of life by creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments. Our people and our family of brands including Club Car, Ingersoll Rand, Thermo King and Trane - work together to enhance the quality and comfort of air in homes and buildings; transport and protect food and perishables; and increase industrial productivity and efficiency. We are a $13 billion global business committed to a world of sustainable progress and enduring results. For more information, visit www.ingersollrand.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005178/en/ Contacts: Ingersoll Rand Media: Misty Zelent, 704-655-5324 mzelent@irco.com or Analysts: Joe Fimbianti, 704-655-4721 joseph_fimbianti@irco.com Study by Sustainalytics and Cass Business School shows how engagement and ESG integration are interrelatedAMSTERDAM, Netherlands and LONDON, 2016-06-30 12:30 CEST (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sustainalytics, a leading global provider of environmental, social and governance (ESG) research, ratings and analytics, andCass Business School, today released a new research report titled, Engagement: Unlocking the Black Box of Value Creation. The study presents a new typology of investor engagement, and provides insights into the interaction between ESG integration and engagement as well as the multiple values associated with engagement.Engagement is one of the fastest growing responsible investment strategies globally together with ESG integration, and is considered an effective way to fulfill investors' fiduciary duty and stewardship obligations. Yet, while investors have been actively involved in engagements for many years, little is known about engagement practices, processes and successes.To better understand various ESG engagement approaches, the partners conducted 36 in-depth interviews with institutional investor representatives across France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The findings reveal that managing the environmental and social impacts of engagement requires more attention. While progress is being made, there is the need for greater consistency in the scope, content and quality of investors' ESG engagement disclosures across all three countries.Dr. Hendrik Garz, Sustainalytics' Executive Director of Thematic Research, said: "Our extensive analysis can potentially serve as a valuable opportunity for institutional investors to benchmark their activities against their European peers and inform policy development on engagement. We enjoyed working with Cass Business School on this first initiative and look forward to advancing the dialogue around this critically important topic."Jean-Pascal Gond, Cass Professor of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and current head of the ETHOS research centre, said: "We now have a better understanding of the challenges facing institutional investors in identifying and recording the specific environmental and social impacts of their engagement activities. Greater collaboration by multiple stakeholders to develop comprehensive metrics will likely enhance the environmental and social outcomes of investor engagement efforts."The full report can be accessed here. For more information on Sustainalytics' Academic Program, please visit here.About Sustainalytics Sustainalytics is an independent ESG and corporate governance research, ratings and analysis firm supporting investors around the world with the development and implementation of responsible investment strategies. With 14 offices globally, Sustainalytics partners with institutional investors who integrate environmental, social and governance information and assessments into their investment processes. Today, the firm has more than 250 staff members, including 170 analysts with varied multidisciplinary expertise of more than 40 sectors. Through the IRRI survey, investors selected Sustainalytics as the best independent responsible investment research firm for three consecutive years, 2012 through 2014 and in 2015, Sustainalytics was named among the top three firms for both ESG and Corporate Governance research. For more information, visit www.sustainalytics.com.About Cass Business School Cass Business School, which is part of City University London, is a leading global business school driven by world-class knowledge, innovative education and a vibrant community. Located in the heart of one of the world's leading financial centres, Cass has strong links to both the City of London and the thriving entrepreneurial hub of Tech City. It is among the global elite of business schools that hold the gold standard of triple-crown accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and the European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS). The faculty at Cass are experts in their fields, producing cutting-edge research with real-world impact. The recent Research Excellence Framework results assessed 84% of Cass research to be world leading or internationally excellent. Cass educates nearly 4,000 students each year on globally renowned programs across all levels of study from undergraduate, to masters, to Executive Education. On graduating, students join a 38,000 strong alumni community across more than 160 countries. Cass Business School blends academic excellence, extraordinary experiences and career progression to foster life-long learning.www.cass.city.ac.uk @cassbusinessMedia Contacts: Sarah Cohn, Director of Marketing, Sustainalytics sarah.cohn@sustainalytics.com P) +1 646.963.6944Kyla Njoku, Senior Communications Officer, Cass Business School kyla.njoku@city.ac.uk P) +44 (0) 207 040 3013 The company's innovative wearable device, the First Response Monitor, is recognised for design excellence Innovative design and technology consultancy Cambridge Design Partnership has cemented its reputation for the highest design standards by being awarded two 'Red Dot: Design Concept' Awards. Both were received for the team's work developing the First Response Monitor, a novel wearable connected device which measures and broadcasts patients' vital signs for instant analysis by medics in emergencies. The Red Dot Awards are the biggest and most respected design awards in the world. In the Life Science category, First Response Monitor received the 'Red Dot: Best of the Best' Award an accolade given to groundbreaking design that is considered the best work in a category. The second 'Red Dot' Award was in the Communication category, which recognises design and apps that showcase excellent communication solutions. Cambridge Design Partnership's First Response Monitor is a small device that clips onto a patient's nose and provides 'at-a-glance' displays of both heart rate and respiratory rate. Data can be collected from multiple monitors and displayed through trends graphs on a single mobile device. Cambridge Design Partnership combined its expertise in user-centred design, electronics and software engineering, low-cost miniaturised sensing and connected devices with extensive experience of medical device development to create the novel technology. The Red Dot Design Concept competition recognises innovative products that are not yet launched on the market but that showcase a high degree of innovation, clear aesthetic quality and excellent design. Almost 5,000 entries from 60 countries were judged, with only 6% of entries going on to receive a coveted Red Dot Award, of which only 42 won a 'Best of the Best' Award. Commenting on the award win, Mike Cane, Founder, Cambridge Design Partnership, said: "Winning two awards in a globally respected and prestigious design competition is tremendous and our team is exceptionally proud of this achievement. The First Response Monitor is a great example of what can be achieved when you combine diverse skills sets and expertise, in this case connected device development and medical product design. Cambridge Design Partnership has always taken a multidisciplinary approach when creating products and services and it's fantastic that this strength has been recognised through these awards." The award ceremony will be held on 22nd September 2016, at the Singapore Red Dot Design Museum, where the winning designs will go on display for the rest of the year. ABOUT CAMBRIDGE DESIGN PARTNERSHIP Cambridge Design Partnership is a leading technology and product design partner focused on helping its client's businesses grow. Some of the world's largest companies trust CDP to develop their most important innovations. Cambridge Design Partnership specialises in the consumer products, healthcare, energy and industrial equipment markets and its multidisciplinary staff have the expert knowledge to identify opportunities and solve the challenges its clients face. www.cambridge-design.co.uk View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005514/en/ Contacts: Cambridge Design Partnership Laura Nicholls ln1@cambridge-design.co.uk / +44 (0) 1223 264428 cdp@wildfirepr.com / +44 (0) 208 408 8000 Regulatory News: In conjunction with a conversion of shares, the company is obliged, according to the Financial Instruments Trading Act (1991:980), to disclose information concerning the change. During June 2016, 800 Series A shares were converted to Series B shares at the request of shareholders. Accordingly, the total number of votes in the company totals 598,469,732. The total number of registered shares in the company amounts to 419,903,072, of which 19,840,740 are Series A shares, and 400,062,332 are Series B shares. This and previous releases can also be found at www.skanska.com/media Skanska is one of the world's leading project development and construction groups with expertise in construction, development of commercial and residential premises, and public-private partnerships projects. Based on its global green experience, Skanska aims to be the clients' first choice for Green solutions. The Group currently has 43,000 employees in selected home markets in Europe and North America. Skanska's sales in 2015 totaled SEK 155 billion. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005517/en/ Contacts: Skanska AB Andre Lofgren, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations tel +46 (0)10 448 13 63 Tulipop ehf., the Icelandic design company behind the Tulipop world and characters, announced today that it has raised $2 Million in Series A funding led by the Icelandic fund Frumtak Ventures, a new investor in the company, and orbergur ehf., a current shareholder. The funds will be used to accelerate the growth of the company, which has developed a popular character goods brand, built around the magical Tulipop island and its inhabitants. Tulipop has already brought to market an award winning range of quality gift items for kids of all ages, in addition to a popular app and story book based on the Tulipop world. In 2015 Tulipop entered the world of licensed merhandise when it signed a deal with Toynami, an American toy company, which has made a name for itself as the home for high-quality, highly detailed toys based on some of today's hottest media licenses. Helga Arnadottir, Tulipop's CEO, says: "Since founding Tulipop six years ago, our goal has been to bring the world of Tulipop and its characters to kids around the world to make Bubble, Gloomy, Miss Maddy and the other Tulipoppers as well known as beloved characters as Hello Kitty, Barbapapa and the Moomins. The opportunity for character goods brands such as Tulipop is huge, and our mission is to build on the success of our giftware range by bringing it to more markets around the world, and enriching the world by developing new projects in the area of storytelling "Tulipop is an exciting investment opportunity", says Svana Gunnarsdottir, General Partner and co-founder of Frumtak Ventures. "This is a company built on Icelandic ingenuity which has a huge potential for international growth. By closing this funding round, the company can leverage the great opportunity that exists for developing the company's products further". Dora Bjorg Marinosdottir, the owner of orbergur, who first invested in Tulipop in 2013, says: "I fell for the aesthetics of Tulipop's designs on day one and have been pleased with the company's progress since I became a shareholder three years ago. Now it is time to take the next steps in developing the Tulipop world and it is therefore very positive to bring on board a professional investor such as Frumtak as a shareholder. Together I am certain we can achieve the ambitious vision of Tulipop's founders' and make Tulipop a world-renowned brand About Tulipop www.tulipop.com Created by celebrated Icelandic illustrator and product designer Signy Kolbeinsdottir and Helga Arnadottir, who holds an MBA from London Business School. Tulipop was founded in 2010. Based in Reykjavik, Iceland, Tulipop has become a household name in its home market in addition to selling its products to around 120 stores in 14 countries. About Frumtak Ventures www.frumtak.is Frumtak Ventures invests in early stage innovative companies that are post seed and show great potential for growth. The fund invests primarily in Iceland but is allowed to invest abroad as allowed by law in connection with its portfolio investments to ensure success in foreign markets. Press Images Press images in high resolution can be accessed from our digital press kit: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/wls8ft0k87vo4b7/AAAF-T3gC53PSB0ue1PKTwqRa?dl=0 View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005554/en/ Contacts: Tulipop Helga Arnadottir, CEO Office: +354 519 6999 Mobile: +354 857 7761 Email: helga@tulipop.com or Frumtak Ventures Svana Gunnarsdottir, General Partner and co-founder Office: +354 510 1850 Mobile: +354 866 9520 Email: svana@frumtak.is Global Leader in Facilities Management Taps Insight from Sensors and Devices to Put the 'Human Touch' into Buildings ARMONK, New York, NEW YORK and COPENHAGEN, Denmark, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- ISS, ISS A/S (ISS.CO, ISS DC, ISSDY), a leading global provider of facility services, has signed a commercial agreement with IBM (NYSE: IBM) to use the power of Watson IoT to transform the management of over 25,000 buildings around the world. Video - http://youtu.be/mk0C_rRhMOw Video - http://youtu.be/sfeo8tbzG4k Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160630/385230-INFO Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160630/385233 Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO Headquartered in Copenhagen, ISS is one of the world's largest private employers with over half a million staff managing everything from concierge to cleaning, catering to technical maintenance for thousands of high profile clients including Rolls-Royce, Nordea, Novartis and the UK's Royal Air Force. Through the new agreement, ISS will tap IBM's Watson IoT platform, consulting and advanced facilities management technologies to transform the services it provides to building owners and users around the world with the goal of making buildings more personalized, intuitive and user-friendly. Working with IBM, ISS will integrate and analyse data from millions of devices and sensors embedded into buildings including doors, windows, chairs, meeting rooms, dispensers and air conditioning systems. Data will be uploaded onto IBM's Watson IoT cloud platform and cognitive computing technologies will learn from this data helping ISS optimise its services as well as furthering its understanding of how people use buildings, thereby creating new opportunities for innovation. For example, sensors in doors and entrance areas can tell a real estate manager how many people are in a building at any one time and sensors on plate dispensers can inform kitchen staff of how many people are still likely to need to eat - helping staff to prepare the right amount of food and avoid wastage. Sensors in meeting rooms, chairs and tables not only help building managers better manage room occupancy and cancel unwanted room bookings, but also inform service staff when a room needs more refreshments or requires cleaning. "In today's highly competitive market, managing and servicing buildings should no longer just be about cost," said Jeff Gravenhorst, CEO of ISS. "With a dashboard overview of key building metrics displayed on mobile devices, facility managers will benefit from an integrated, real-time view of the services and supplies within their buildings enabling them to adopt a more pro-active, flexible and responsive approach to building management and customised service delivery. Putting real time data into the hands of service staff will help to foster more attentive and service-minded employees, supporting our customers in achieving their priorities. Putting a 'human touch' in buildings helps to increase employee productivity, decrease absenteeism and makes a better impression on visitors." "With this agreement we are taking the power of technology and the power of service and putting those together to enable ISS to make buildings better for their users," said Harriet Green, General Manager, IBM Watson IoT. "The key thing is to find out how people will work in the future. By analysing data from sensors we are helping ISS to uncover new insight that will help to ensure buildings are the kinds of places where people want to be, not just need to be." As a first step, ISS has already fitted its Copenhagen headquarters, which serves as an innovation lab for the service group, with hundreds of sensors connected to IBM's Watson IoT platform and TRIRIGA facilities management software to help improve room bookings and catering services for the 250 employees based in the building. The next phase will be the implementation of the cognitive IoT technology at selected customer sites. To view a film giving ISS's perspective on the agreement, please visit: http://bit.ly/29s8r1k To view a film showing the transformation of ISS's Copenhagen HQ, please visit: http://bit.ly/297I6Gj To view an image relating to this announcement, please visit: http://bit.ly/2974N1s To view an infographic relating to this announcement, please visit: http://ibm.co/296xgR7 About ISS The ISS Group was founded in Copenhagen in 1901 and has grown to become one of the world's leading Facility Services companies. ISS offers a wide range of services such as: cleaning, catering, security, property and support services as well as facility management. Global revenue amounted to DKK 79.6 billion in 2015 and ISS has approximately 500,000 employees and activities in more than 75 countries across Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America and Pacific, serving thousands of both public and private sector customers. For more information on the ISS Group, visit www.issworld.com. About IBM Watson IoT IBM is an established leader in the Internet of Things with more than 4,000 client engagements in 170 countries, a growing ecosystem of over 1,400 partners and more 750 IoT patents which together help to draw actionable insight from billions of connected devices, sensors and systems around the world. Building on the company's $3 billion USD commitment to bring Watson cognitive computing to IoT, in December 2015 IBM announced a new global headquarters for IBM's new Watson IoT unit in Munich Germany, bringing together 1,000 IBM developers, consultants, researchers and designers to drive deeper engagement with clients and partners. IBM TRIRIGA Facilities Manager identifies underutilized facilities and workspaces that can be used more effectively to help reduce costs. TRIRIGA is a Software as a Service platform which helps to increase facilities utilization and improves the effectiveness of a distributed workforce. It also provides move management capabilities for more efficient personnel and asset relocation. For more information on IBM Watson IoT, please visit www.ibm.com/iot Contacts Manuel Viglius Global Media Relations Manager, ISS A/S Manuel.Vigilius@group.issworld.com +45 3817 6404 Benedicte Stroem IBM Denmark BStroem@dk.ibm.com +45 5163 8873 Jonathan Jessop Batty External Relations Leader, IBM Watson IoT jonathanb@uk.ibm.com +44 7880 086571 WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - ArQule, Inc. (ARQL) Thursday said its preliminary clinical data for ARQ 087 demonstrated anti-cancer activity in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma, a rare liver cancer with a high mortality rate and limited treatment options. The company has presented the details of the trial at the ESMO 18th World Congress on Gastrointestinal Cancer. The company said the anti-cancer activity was defined by objective response rate and disease control rate in an ongoing phase 1/2 biomarker driven trial. The data is comprised of 21 patients dosed with ARQ 087, 14 of which presented with FGFR2 genetic alterations and seven of which did not. Among the 12 evaluable patients with FGFR2 genetic alterations, the objective response rate was 25 percent and disease control rate was 75 percent. Progressive disease was the best response in 25% of the patients. ARQ 087 is a multi-kinase inhibitor designed to preferentially inhibit the fibroblast growth factor receptor family. ARQ 087 showed a manageable safety profile with mostly Grade 1 and 2 adverse events. The company has been granted orphan drug designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medicine's Agency for ARQ 087 in this indication. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. SAINT HELIER (dpa-AFX) - Shire plc (SHP.L, SHPG) announced its Phase 2 study evaluating an investigational protein replacement, SHP607, did not meet its primary endpoint of reducing the severity of retinopathy of prematurity, a rare eye condition. The company said the study demonstrated clinically relevant effects in secondary endpoints related to the development of severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a chronic lung disease, and severe intraventricular hemorrhage, a type of brain injury. SHP607 is a recombinant human version of the naturally-occurring protein complex of insulin-like growth factor 1 and its most abundant binding protein, IGF binding protein-3. Philip Vickers, Head of Research & Development, Shire, said, 'Although the study did not meet its primary endpoint, we are extremely encouraged by the topline secondary endpoints related to lung and brain. For severe complications related to the lung and brain, there are no approved treatment options, and these data support our commitment to further investigate the potential systemic benefits of SHP607 in this population where the unmet patient need is substantial.' Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Partners with Hot Topics to launch the Health Tech 100 Hotwire, the global integrated PR and communications consultancy, today announced the launch of a global Health Tech practice. Overseen by Chief Development Officer Andy West, the practice will be staffed by an initial team of 10 employees from across Hotwire's global network, each of whom bring strong integrated communications experience in the category including work with the likes of Nuance, Fitbit, Garmin, Samsung and Qualcomm. To support the launch of the new practice, Hotwire is partnering with the global business media brand, Hot Topics, to publish the Health Tech 100, a list of the world's most influential leaders in the Health Tech category. Uniquely, the list has been nominated by the leaders of the Health Tech sector globally, alongside members of Hot Topics' business leader community. It features established executives, policy makers, innovative creators and entrepreneurs from healthcare and Health Tech organisations around the world. Over the next six months, members of the list will exclusively contribute their thoughts and opinions about the growing category on the Hot Topics and Hotwire Health Tech 100 website. According to Brendon Craigie, Group CEO of Hotwire, the launch of the new practice recognises the heritage the company has in technology and the global opportunity represented by the burgeoning Health Tech category: "Every day we get the opportunity to work with businesses that are creating technologies that are changing the world for the better," said Craigie. "Nowhere is this more the case than in Health Tech where we are seeing two vital sectors of the economy converge. Hotwire has been involved in the sector for over a decade and we hope this new global practice will enable us to partner with established and emerging leaders in the category." Commenting on the new practice, Chief Development Officer, Andy West, said: "Health, like many traditional industries before it, is being disrupted by the emergence of new technologies. However, despite the hyperbole, the barriers to entry remain high because of complex regulations and, in some cases, fear of change. Through our global team of specialists, we plan to help Health Tech businesses create effective comms campaigns that highlight not just the incredible innovation behind many of the solutions but the true life changing benefits that these technologies deliver." View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005321/en/ Contacts: Hotwire Emma Hazan, 020 7608 4659 Emma.hazan@hotwirepr.com LA PRAIRIE, QUEBEC -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- The management of Vanstar Mining Resources Inc. ("Vanstar") (TSX VENTURE: VSR) provides an update on the final drilling results from the 2016 winter drill program on the Nelligan project, located in the Chibougamau-Chapais area, in Northwestern Quebec, Canada. A first series of results were reported in April 5, 2016 press release and all results are now received for the 2016 winter program completed by partner IAMGOLD Corporation ("IAMGOLD"). The additional results confirm the presence of new mineralized gold-bearing zones north of the Liam and Dan zones and some lateral extensions to existing zones. North Sector Hole NE-16-44, located about 200 meters west of hole NE-16-37, intersected several mineralized gold zones including a zone of 10.34 meters grading 4.43 g/t Au and an another mineralized zone of 27.28 meters grading 1.30 g /t Au. More than ten gold intercepts over 2 meters grading more than 1 g/t Au were intersected in this hole. Hole NE-16-37 had intersected 2.02 g/t Au over 10.34 meters and several other gold intercepts over 2 meters thick at a grade greater than 1 g/t Au. Hole NE-16-41A, located 125 meters west of hole NE-16-44, also cut several anomalous gold zones but was not drilled deep enough to intercept the extension of some of the gold zones intersected in hole NE-16-44. A surface plan can be found on the following link. Please click this link for the drill holes location map: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1060920-map-Nelligan.jpg This new discovered gold system could include higher grade gold zones as demonstrated by the intersection in drill hole NE-16-44, which is one of the best drill results obtained to date. The new mineralization intersected to the north of Liam and Dan zones appears different and is hosted in strongly silicified and carbonated fine sediments bearing between 5% up to 30% of disseminated and semi-massive pyrite bands. These zones are generally anomalous in gold with background varying from 200 to 500 ppb gold on multi tens of metres. Liam and Dan Zones The Liam gold zone was intersected by holes NE-16-43 and NE-16-45 returning respectively grades of 0.85 g/t Au and 0.88 g/t Au over thicknesses ranging from 5 to 17 meters. The Liam zone still remains open at depth and in its lateral extensions. The Dan gold zone was also cut by these same holes revealing sub-economic grades over shorter widths. (See attached Table) Lac d'Eu Gold Showing Holes NE-16-40 and NE-16-42 were drilled in the Lac d'Eu gold showing area and both holes cut numerous gold intercepts (see Table) over 1 metre in width. "We are impressed with the amount of gold mineralization intersected north of the Liam and Dan zones. Although the drilling program completed to date by IAMGOLD in this area does not yet confirm continuity, the mineralization remains open in all directions. A more comprehensive drilling program will be needed to better understand the continuity of the gold bearing structures and the significance of this new discovery" commented M. Guy Morissette, CEO of the company. The 2016 winter campaign was executed under the management and supervision of IAMGOLD. A total of 4,552 metres in 13 holes were completed at the end of March. The drilling program has targeted selected structural and geophysical (IP) anomalies as well as evaluated lateral and depth extensions of the previously drilled Liam and Dan zones. Some historical results of the Lac d'Eu gold zone located about 700 metres northeast of Liam and Dan zones were also tested. Assay results for the last eight (8) holes (3,163 metres) of the 2016 winter program are reported in the table below which summarizes the assay results received for the entire drilling program. Work in progress The work currently in preparation consists of an orientation soil geochemical sampling program to evaluate several sampling methods and covering part of the Liam and North zones. If the tests are successful, the soil geochemistry survey will be designed to cover a larger area. The compilation of the recent results, including geophysical surveys and the planned geochemical survey will help prepare another drilling campaign possibly planned for early or late fall as the conditions for access to the ground permit. Nelligan Agreement The Nelligan property is 100 per cent owned by Vanstar. The project totals 84 designated cells for a total surface area of 4,705.4 hectares (or 47.1 square kilometres). The current exploration program is managed and supervised by IAMGOLD. Pursuant to an earn-in option agreement signed on Nov. 12, 2014, IAMGOLD may acquire up to an 80-per-cent interest in the Nelligan project. Terms include a first option to earn a 50-per-cent undivided interest in consideration for staged cash payments totaling $550,000 and the completion of $4-million in exploration expenditures over a period of 4.5 years ending on May 12, 2019. Following the exercise of the first option, IAMGOLD can elect a second option to earn an additional 25-per-cent interest, in consideration for the delivery of a prefeasibility study and making further annual cash payments totaling $225,000, over a period of 3.5 years. IAMGOLD can elect a third option to earn an additional 5-per-cent interest in consideration for the delivery of a feasibility study and a cash payment of $275,000. The technical data presented in this press release has been released to the Company by IAMGOLD. Gilles Laverdiere, geologist and Qualified Person, has reviewed IAMGOLD data files and approved the technical data reported in this press release. About the Nelligan Project This project is located 45 km to the south of Chapais. Access to the property is easy by the paved highway 113 N that links Chapais to Chibougamau and by forestry gravel roads reaching directly to the center of the property. The Property is located in the northeastern part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt of the Superior Province. It contains several interesting gold showings including Liam, Dan, North Sector and Lake d'Eu. These new gold structures were intersected to date over a length of 400 meters at a depth of over 200 vertical meters. The presence of gold is constant throughout the drilling. These zones remain open along strike and at depth. Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements regarding our intentions and plans. The forward-looking statements that are contained in this news release are based on various assumptions and estimates by the Company and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. As a consequence, actual results may differ materially from results forecasted or suggested in these forward-looking statements and readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. We caution you that such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, as discussed in the Company's filings with Canadian securities agencies. Various factors may prevent or delay our plans, including but not limited to, contractor availability and performance, weather, access, mineral prices, success and failure of the exploration and development carried out at various stages of the program, and general business, economic, competitive, political and social conditions. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward- looking statements, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Please click this link for the Nelligan Project Drilling Results table: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/NelliganResults.pdf Contacts: Guy Morissette, CEO Vanstar 819-763-5096 gmvanstar@gmail.com Boston, MA, June 30, 2016 - Doctors Health Press (www.DoctorsHealthPress.com), a division of Lombardi Publishing Corporation and the publisher of various natural health newsletters, books, and reports, including the popular Doctors Health Press e-Bulletin, is commenting on a new study suggesting that consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of death from heart attack.Researchers from the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine in California examined the. Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. CHICAGO, IL -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Stauber, a leading provider of ingredients for nutraceutical, food, beverage, flavor and pet industries, will be exhibiting at IFT16: Where Science Feeds Innovation from July 17, 2016 through July 19, 2016 in Chicago at the McCormick Place South, Booth 3680. The annual meeting and expo, presented by the Institute of Food Technologists, brings together the food industry's largest collection of food ingredients, equipment, processing, and packaging suppliers. Joining Stauber this year is Marigot Ltd.'s Aquamin, a unique marine multi-mineral complex that provides bioactive calcium, magnesium and 72 other trace marine minerals, for the fortification of food, beverage and supplement products. Unlike other mineral sources used in food, beverage and supplement preparation, Aquamin is derived solely from seaweed harvested under an exclusive license off the coast of Iceland. The seaweed, which absorbs trace minerals from the surrounding seawater, coupled with Aquamin's unique structure, results in a mineral rich product that is neutral tasting, free of chalky texture and easily absorbed by the human body. In May 2016, Aquamin was honored at the annual NutraIngredients Awards in Geneva, Switzerland as the 2016 Ingredient of the Year in the Healthy Ageing category. The NutraIngredients Awards recognize true innovation and cutting edge research in health foods, supplements and nutrition industries. "Joining Stauber at IFT16 presents us with a great opportunity to educate the IFT community about Aquamin and its many benefits," said David O'Leary, Commercial Manager of Marigot Ltd., the creators of Aquamin. "We are looking forward to joining our exclusive North America distributor, Stauber, to meet with new prospects who are interested in learning more about Aquamin as an ingredient for their future products." Stauber will also be exhibiting long-term partner Vis Vitalis GmbH, which offers high-quality natural vitamins for various applications. Highlighted items from Austrian-based Vis Vitalis GmbH include PANMOL B-COMPLEX US100, derived from sprouted quinoa providing a holistic range of all B vitamins, and PANMOL VITAMINS US50, which covers all essential vitamins from botanical sources. Also exhibiting with Stauber is premium quality manufacturer Biosearch Life, with its shelf stable, clinically-studied Hereditum Probiotics line. This exceptional probiotic offering, comprised of a series of unique strains originally isolated from human breast milk, is patent protected and effective in diverse finished applications. For more information regarding Stauber, visit www.stauberusa.com. About Stauber Since 1969, Stauber has consistently offered the finest quality ingredients to the nutritional, food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and pet care industries. The company was founded on the principle of partnering with manufacturers that provide the highest level of product and service. From the corporate office in Fullerton, California, manufacturing capabilities under its control in New York, warehouses in four strategic geographic locations and alliances with major freight companies, Stauber is able to react quickly and deliver customer needs by being a complete "solution provider." About Aquamin Aquamin is a unique marine multi-mineral complex derived from the Lithothamnion seaweed species. Sustainably harvested under licence off the Northwest coast of Iceland, this truly natural mineral offering has been extensively evaluated in clinical trials and demonstrated proven efficacy in multiple health areas. Today, this material is supported by over 30 scientific peer reviewed publications covering bone, joint and digestive health areas. Marigot's approach has always been one of innovation based on science and it has pioneered the development of this mineral across nutraceutical supplement and food ingredient markets internationally. About IFT Founded in 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists is committed to advancing the science of food. Our non-profit scientific society -- more than 17,000 members from more than 95 countries -- brings together food scientists, technologists and related professionals from academia, government, and industry. For more information, please visit ift.org. Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3028634 MEDIA CONTACT Valeria Velasco 310-405-0357 valeria@marketingmavenpr.com LONDON, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Law (ULaw) has unveiled a market-changing initiative '100% for You', which puts students firmly at the heart of the organisation and provides the foundation for ULaw's new vision for student success. (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160630/812860 ) The '100% for You' campaign builds on the university's strong graduate employability rate and the new initiative involves a series of innovative measures that will deliver more support and academic excellence to those entering the legal profession. Among the first initiatives to be unveiled this week is a new 100% Employment Promise for 2016, offering ULaw LPC students half of their LPC tuition fees back in cash if they have not secured employment nine months after graduation, and a further credit, equal to the other half their LPC tuition fees towards another course run by ULaw and its partners*. Dr Stelios Platis, CEO and Managing Director at The University of Law (ULaw), said: "At ULaw our students are at the heart of everything we do and we focus our efforts into ensuring their long term success. When our students succeed we succeed which is why we pledge 100% support, 100% excellence and 100% commitment. We were the first university to offer a money back Employment Promise and this year we are backing our students with an even bigger commitment with this new initiative. Dr Stelios Platis added: "We are proud of our College of Law heritage and we are building on that success and tradition. We are now backed by a leading education group - Global University Systems (GUS) - which is fully committed to educational excellence, and gives us opportunities for dynamic new programmes. As we look ahead to the new academic year, there has never been a more exciting time for the university as we look to introduce further initiatives over the coming months, under the '100% for You' banner." The campaign will reveal a series of innovative measures and will strengthen the university's offering and total commitment to its students. Further details will be announced in due course. ULaw is the largest legal training provider in the UK, working with 90 of the top 100 law firms. It offers an award-winning legal careers and employability service as well as one of the UK's largest and most varied pro bono programmes with over 2,900 opportunities for students to put their skills into practise to better prepare for the job market. ULaw's programmes are regularly updated in partnership with employers to ensure students acquire the legal and business skills required in the business and commercial world. The institution also works with 600 practising lawyers who bring a wealth of experience to its mentoring programme, making it the largest of its type in the UK. For further information about the new Employment Promise please visit: http://www.law.ac.uk/postgraduate/employment-law-promise/ * The offer will apply to all LPC students who commence their course in July and September 2016. 50% of course fees credited to any postgraduate course provided by ULaw, De Broc or one of its partners. Notes to editors: The University of Law The University of Law (ULaw) is the largest and longest established provider of professional legal education and training in the world with centres in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Chester, Guildford, Manchester and Leeds as well as offering some courses at The University of Exeter.Previously The College of Law, it was granted university status in November 2012. ULaw has trained more lawyers than anyone else ULaw's LPC class of 2014 gained training contracts with over 75 of the UK's top law firms, including 9 of the top 10 ULaw has UK's largest legal alumni group with over 60,000 alumni In the 2015 National Student Survey ULaw students voted the university first for learning resources, academic support & organisation management ULaw regularly invests in its facilities, including recent investments of 4 million in its IT systems and mock court rooms emulating real-life law practice For further information about ULaw please visit http://www.law.ac.uk. TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Partners Value Investments Inc. (the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: PVF) and Partners Value Investments LP (the "Partnership") (TSX VENTURE: PVF.UN)(TSX VENTURE: PVF.PR.A) today announced the completion of the first step of the proposed capital reorganization. The capital reorganization will be implemented over the course of a two-business day period, commencing today and concluding July 4, 2016. Upon completion of the Arrangement, all of the issued and outstanding common and non-voting shares of the Company (collectively, the "Shares") will have been exchanged for one equity limited partnership unit of the Partnership ("Equity LP Units") and 0.2719 Class A Preferred LP Units, Series 1 of the Partnership ("Series 1 Preferred LP Units"). In addition, each shareholder of the Company that did not validly exercise dissent rights has received one purchase warrant ("Warrants") for each share held. Pursuant to the Arrangement: (i) up to 73,546,897 Equity LP Units will be issued to shareholders of the Company at an issue price of $25.96 per Equity LP Unit; (ii) up to 19,997,402 Series 1 Preferred LP Units will be issued to shareholders of the Company at an issue price of US$25 per Series 1 Preferred LP Unit; and (iii) 73,544,024 Warrants were issued to shareholders of the Company. The exercise price of the Warrants is $32.45. Five warrants are required to purchase one non-voting exchangeable share of the Company. The non-voting exchangeable shares will be exchangeable for Equity LP Units of the Partnership at the option of the holder. The warrants will expire on June 30, 2026. It is anticipated that the Equity LP Units, Series 1 Preferred LP Units and Warrants will commence trading today on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbols PVF.UN, PVF.PR.A and PVF.WT, respectively. The common shares of the Company ceased trading on the TSX Venture Exchange on June 29, 2016 after the market closed and will be de-listed from the TSX Venture Exchange on July 4, 2016. For further details concerning the Arrangement and the steps thereunder, please consult the management information circular mailed to shareholders of the Company on May 4, 2016. Forward Looking Statements Note: This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or include words such as "anticipates" or the negative version thereof and other similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as "may", "will", "should", "would" and "could". Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the timing of completion of the proposed reorganization. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of presenting information about current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future, and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Although management believes that these forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on them or other forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which may cause the actual results to differ materially from the anticipated future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forward in the forward-looking statements include the risk factors and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company's documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company's forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. However, any further disclosures made on related subjects in subsequent reports should be consulted. Contacts: David Clare Investor Relations 647-503-6516 ir@pvii.ca WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Constellation Brands Inc (STZ) released a profit for its first quarter that advanced from last year. The company said its bottom line advanced to $317.0 million, or $1.54 per share. This was up from $256.4 million, or $1.26 per share, in last year's first quarter. The company said revenue for the quarter rose 14.7% to $1.87 billion. This was up from $1.63 billion last year. Constellation Brands Inc earnings at a glance: -Earnings (Q1): $317.0 Mln. vs. $256.4 Mln. last year. -Earnings Growth (Y-o-Y): 23.6% -EPS (Q1): $1.54 vs. $1.26 last year. -EPS Growth (Y-o-Y): 22.2% -Revenue (Q1): $1.87 Bln vs. $1.63 Bln last year. -Revenue Change (Y-o-Y): 14.7% -Guidance : Full year EPS guidance: $6.05 - $6.35 Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. TORONTO, ONTARIO and MUNICH, GERMANY -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- TANTALEX Resources Corporation (CSE: TTX)(FRANKFURT: 1T0) ("TANTALEX" or the "Corporation"), is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, United Materials Congo SARL ("UNITED MATERIALS" or "UMC"), located in the Katanga province of Democratic Republic of Congo ("DRC"), has signed a definitive agreement with a second local mining cooperative (refer to June 8, 2016 press release), namely La Cooperative Miniere LUBI ("CML"), whereby CML will become a sub-contractor to UMC, and as such, will supply UMC exclusively to the entirety of the Tantalum concentrate it produces. Dave GAGNON, Chief Executive Officer of TANTALEX, explains: "We are extremely happy to not only have signed this second agreement for Tantalum, but especially happy that it be with CML. In terms of finding a partner to work with in Katanga, LUBI has a longstanding reputation and extensive experience mining Tantalum. It is one of the largest cooperatives in the region, employing several thousand employees. Not only does the agreement increase our tantalum pentoxide (Ta205), but it speaks volumes about how we are also perceived in the region. We have very quickly established trust, a credible reputation, and are quickly becoming the preferred company to partner with." About TANTALEX Resources Corporation TANTALEX is a mining company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and distribution of Tantalum and other high-tech mineral properties in Africa. The Company is listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (symbol: TTX) and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (symbol: 1T0). Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Although TANTALEX believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, TANTALEX disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed this news release and does not accept responsibility for its adequacy or accuracy. For further information, please contacts Investor relations: ir@tantalex.ca Or visit us at: WWW.TANTALEX.CA Contacts: TANTALEX Resources Corporation Dave Gagnon Chief Executive Officer +16479637476 dg@tantalex.ca TANTALEX Resources Corporation Kyle Appleby Chief Financial Officer +14164179176 ka@tantalex.ca DENVER, CO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Today, over 100 local business executives gathered at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Denver to learn from some of Colorado's nationally recognized award-winning business performance experts. Presented by Elevations Credit Union, the Colorado's Path to Performance Excellence event featured a panel of executives representing each of the four Colorado-based organizations that have been awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the highest recognition of business performance excellence for both public and private U.S. organizations given by the President of the United States. The panel was moderated by Eben Harrell, a senior editor at Harvard Business Review, who elicited insightful discussion from the panelists as they shared their expertise in structuring and executing effective business processes. The panelists included: Gerry Agnes, President and Chief Executive Officer at Elevations Credit Union Kevin Unger, Chief Executive Officer at Poudre Valley Health System, an entity within Colorado Health Sharon Clinebell, professor of management at Monfort College of Business at the University of Northern Colorado Jeff Jones, Director of Quality at CH2M Darin Atteberry, City Manager at the City of Fort Collins, a regional Rocky Mountain Performance Excellence Peak award recipient Gov. Hickenlooper concluded the event with a special address highlighting the importance of business performance to the local economy and expressing his excitement to see the state of Colorado emerge as an epicenter for business growth and excellence. "We're proud to bring fellow award-winning business performance excellence leaders together to share insights with other business leaders along the Front Range," said Gerry Agnes. "We hope that this event ignites thoughtful conversation to continue top-notch business performance across the state of Colorado." To learn more about Colorado's Path to Performance Excellence, visit https://coloradospathtoperformanceexce.splashthat.com/. To learn more about the Baldrige Award, visit http://www.nist.gov/baldrige/ and www.elevationscu.com/baldrige. About Elevations Credit Union Elevations Credit Union is a member-owned not-for-profit financial institution serving Colorado's Front Range. Elevations provides a broad portfolio of financial products and services including checking and savings accounts, mortgage loans, credit cards, auto loans, home equity lines of credit, student loans, business loans and financial planning. Founded in 1953 as the U of C Federal Credit Union in Boulder, Elevations has grown from 12 members and less than $100 in assets to an institution with more than 115,000 members that manages over $1.6 billion in assets and is the No. 1 credit union mortgage lender in Colorado. In 2014, Elevations earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, and in 2015, Elevations was named one of the Best Companies to Work for in Colorado in the large category. Readers of local newspapers name Elevations "Best Bank/Financial Institution," "Best Mortgage Lender" and "Best Customer Service" year after year. To learn more, visit elevationscu.com. Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3028622 Katie Boyless (404) 791-8245 kweathers@csg-pr.com CALGARY, ALBERTA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Spriza Media Inc. (the "Corporation" or "Spriza") (TSX VENTURE: SPZ) is pleased to announce it has signed a partnership agreement with UMG Events ("UMG"), a major player in the e-sports industry. UMG is one of the largest e-sports tournament companies in the US. UMG offers both land based tournaments as well as online contests. To date UMG has completed more than 8,000,000 matches through both their website, www.umggaming.com website and land based tournaments. The partnership allows UMG to utilize Spriza's proprietary software as a licensee, to create and publish digital ad content that includes contests, deals, promotions, and direct ads to all online and mobile platforms. Spriza's ability to tie these online interactions to traditional ad spend and live events is unparalleled. Spriza is the single system that maps, analyzes, optimizes and reports on over 150 data points, providing valuable lead generation and market intelligence to remain a leader in the industry. Spriza's cloud-based digital marketing automation software allows the user to handle everything from creative, distribution, management, fulfilment, audit and reporting. UMG will be using Spriza's software to plan, create, and execute digital marketing initiatives that build brand awareness and drive tournament registrations. UMG is thrilled to be able to access Spriza's proprietary software which will allow UMG full access to a reporting dashboard, real-time analytics and reporting on the success of its campaigns, through robust tools that measure marketing and advertising budgets for real time return on investment analysis and demographic data. UMG currently has in excess of 1,000,000 unique monthly users through its online tournament offerings, and the use of Spriza's software enables UMG to tap into the power of shared interests and personal relationships within this vast user base, producing traceable and quantifiable results in the categories of: lead generation, conversions, app downloads, affiliate revenue, brand exposure, and engagement. The first project of the Spriza/UMG partnership is the 'Win a VIP Trip to a UMG Tournament' Contest, which is set to launch. This contest awards the lucky Winner with a trip for 3 to an upcoming UMG tournament, location yet to be revealed. The Winner and 2 friends receive VIP Tournament Access, roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodations, tournament "swag" and a UMG Gaming Rig. The agreement with UMG will generate income for Spriza from each contest campaign that is run, as well as an on-going revenue stream from the platform license, in addition Spriza will receive revenue when certain targets are met related to new Prime Members that are created at umggaming.com. About Spriza Spriza's patent pending technology allows brands and agencies to generate unforgettable moments connecting consumers to the brands they love. Our campaigns effectively drive focused and quantifiable returns for our clients by combining incentive-based marketing with audience targeted promotions; turning any marketing effort into a successful, widespread campaign with a measurable impact both to the Brands and Spriza. Spriza Media Inc., spriza.com Reader Advisory Certain information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements or information ("forward-looking statements"), including details about the business of the Corporation. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the Corporation's control, including the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions" currency fluctuations, operational risks, competition from other industry participants, stock market volatility, and the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources. Although the Corporation believes that the expectations in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, its forward-looking statements have been based on factors and assumptions concerning future events which may prove to be inaccurate. Those factors and assumptions are based upon currently available information. Such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results or events and cause actual results or events to differ materially from those stated, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, as no assurance can be provided as to future results, levels of activity or achievements. Risks, uncertainties, material assumptions and other factors that could affect actual results are discussed in our public disclosure documents available at www.sedar.com. Furthermore, the forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of the date of this document and, except as required by applicable law, the Corporation does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Contacts: Spriza Media Inc. Rob Danard Chief Executive Officer (403) 614-4441 rob@spriza.com Spriza Media Inc. Jay Cowles Chief Operating Officer (403) 470-1818 jay@spriza.com Spriza Media Inc. Dave Antony Director (403) 531-1710 dave@spriza.com $15 Million in Equity and a $10 Million Growth Debt Facility Highlight Successful Round Led by Piper Jaffray Companies Norsk Titanium AS, the world's pioneering supplier of aerospace-grade, additive manufactured, structural titanium components today announced the successful close of its Q2 2016 funding round. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005387/en/ Financing round supports expanded Rapid Plasma Deposition capacity from MERKE IV machines capable of 20 metric tons of aerospace-grade, structural titanium per year. (Photo: Business Wire) Minneapolis-based investment bank Piper Jaffray led the round for Norsk Titanium to secure investment from institutional and strategic investors to provide financing for a rapidly expanding customer base, aerospace production part qualification programs, a U.S. expansion into New York State and key additions to the leadership team. Highlights of the Q2 funding round include: $10 million equity investment from Insight Equity Holdings LLC, a mid-market private equity firm $10 million growth debt facility from Harbert European Growth Capital Fund I (HEGCF) I (HEGCF) $5 million equity investment from a number of smaller investors John Andersen, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Directors of Norsk Titanium stated, "We are delighted to announce the successful close of this round of funding. The Board of Norsk Titanium believes our current industrial-scale expansion strategy in the U.S. will create significant shareholder value and service the needs of our American aerospace and defense customers." "We are very excited about our investment in Norsk Titanium," said Victor Vescovo, Co-Founder Managing Partner of Insight Equity. "As industry veterans in metal additive manufacturing and high-precision machining through Precision Holdings, we see enormous potential for Norsk's Rapid Plasma Deposition technology not just in titanium and in aircraft parts, but throughout a broader spectrum of other materials and industries in the future." "We chose to invest in Norsk Titanium because their Rapid Plasma Deposition technology is heralded as one of the most disruptive processes in additive manufacturing and their strong management team makes it a real game-changer in a sector so often bereft of true innovation," said Johan Kampe, Senior Managing Director at Harbert European Growth Capital Fund. "The growth potential of this company is beyond any doubt and we are very pleased to be part of its future; we intend to bring our close relationships within the technology sector to the fore." The $25 million funding round follows the inclusion in the 2016 New York State budget of $125 million to support the development of Norsk Titanium's Plattsburgh, New York factory, which is part of Norsk's proposed $1 billion, 10-year project in the state. Norsk Titanium will have a major presence at the Farnborough International Airshow from July 11-15, 2016 in Hall 4, Booth A114, where it will exhibit a full-scale mock-up of the company's patented MERKE IV Rapid Plasma Deposition machine that has been qualified at the world's top echelon of aircraft manufacturers to produce structural titanium components. About Norsk Titanium AS Norsk Titanium AS is the world's pioneering supplier of aerospace-grade, additive manufactured, structural titanium components. The company is distinguished in the aviation industry by its patented Rapid Plasma Deposition (RPD) process that transforms titanium wire into complex components suitable for structural and safety-critical applications. The Norsk Titanium research and development team is committed to replacing today's inefficient manufacturing processes with a precision wire deposition technology embodying substantial savings for aerospace, defense, and commercial applications. www.norsktitanium.com About Piper Jaffray Piper Jaffray Companies (NYSE: PJC) is an investment bank and asset management firm headquartered in Minneapolis with offices across the U.S. and in London, Zurich and Hong Kong. Securities brokerage and investment banking services are offered in the United States through Piper Jaffray Co., member NYSE and SIPC, in Europe through Piper Jaffray Ltd., authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and in Hong Kong through Piper Jaffray Hong Kong, authorized and regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission. Asset management products and services are offered through three separate investment advisory affiliates registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission: Advisory Research Inc., Piper Jaffray Investment Management LLC and PJC Capital Partners LLC. About Insight Equity Insight Equity Holdings LLC (www.insightequity.com) makes controlling investments in strategically viable, middle market, asset intensive companies across a wide range of industries. Insight Equity specializes in partnering with companies in complex and challenging situations, including corporate divestitures, aggressive growth opportunities, restructurings, and transitions from private family ownership. The firm leverages a proven, collaborative value creation model to facilitate operating enhancements and growth. Insight Equity's headquarters is located near the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in Southlake, Texas. The firm also has an office in New York City. About Harbert European Growth Capital Fund I, L.P. Harbert European Growth Capital Fund I, LP (HEGCF) finances high-growth and innovative European companies, both private and publicly traded, and is actively seeking investment opportunities. Additional information about HEGCF can be found at www.harbert.net/investment-strategies/private-capital/european-growth-capital/. Harbert Management Corporation (HMC), an alternative asset management firm with approximately $4.3 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2016, is a corner sponsor of the fund along with a number of institutional investors. HMC is a privately owned firm formed in 1993 to sponsor alternative asset investment funds. Additional information about HMC and HEGCF can be found at www.harbert.net View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005387/en/ Contacts: Norsk Titanium AS Chip Yates, VP of Marketing +1-949-735-9463 media@norsktitanium.com BIELEFELD, Germany, June 30, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Norbert Rotter Becomes New CEO Norbert Rotter is taking on the role of CEO of itelligence AG as of July 1. Rotter, who previously held the position of CFO, is following on from Herbert Vogel, the founder and long-standing CEO of the most successful SAP consultancy firm for the SME market. Herbert Vogel is retiring. (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160629/812736 ) Friedrich Fleischmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of itelligence AG, comments: "We would like to thank Herbert Vogel for his outstanding achievements. He has developed itelligence into the world's largest SAP service provider for SMEs. We are confident that as an experienced manager Norbert Rotter will lead the company to a successful future, and we wish him the best of luck." Norbert Rotter, CEO of itelligence AG, comments: "I am delighted to take on the role of CEO at itelligence AG. itelligence is a fast-growing, global IT company with a focus on SAP technology. The challenges in the age of digitalization are wide-ranging. The IT industry is experiencing radical change and my goal is for itelligence to take on a leading role in the digital transformation." Norbert Rotter (48) has been a member of the Management Board of itelligence AG since January 2008. As CFO, he was responsible for the successful international expansion of itelligence AG with the Mergers & Acquisitions division. itelligence has also grown significantly in Germany. For example, in June 2016 alone the SAP consultancy firm acquired ITML GmbH in Pforzheim with around 160 employees and the BIT.Group in Bautzen with around 380 employees. As a graduate in business administration, Rotter began his career at the international audit firm KPMG Deutsche Treuhandgesellschaft AG in 1995. Norbert Rotter is married and has three children. itelligence is one of the leading international full-service providers of solutions in support of SAP solutions, employing about 5,300 highly qualified employees in 24 countries. As a frequently awarded SAP partner, among others global value-added reseller, SAP Certified in Cloud Services, SAP-Certified Provider of Hosting Services for SAP HANA Enterprise Cloud and SAP Platinum Partner, itelligence realizes complex projects in the SAP solution-based environment worldwide. The company's services in support of SAP solutions range from consulting and licensing to application management services and hosting services to proprietary industry-specific SAP. In 2015, itelligence generated total sales of EUR 696.2 million. Head of Corporate Public Relations Silvia Dicke Tel:+49 (0) 521-91448 107 Fax:+49 (0) 521-91445 201 silvia.dicke@itelligence.de itelligence AG Konigsbreede 1 33605 Bielefeld, Germany http://www.itelligencegroup.com Regulatory News: The total number of shares in Gunnebo AB (publ) as per 30 June 2016 amounts to 77 000 848, divided into 76 270 001 ordinary shares and 730 847 shares of series C, corresponding to a total of 76 343 085,7 votes. The increase of the number of shares and votes is due to that 85 000 ordinary shares were subscribed for and registered during June 2016 through the exercise of warrants issued under Incentive Program 2012/2016. GUNNEBO AB (publ) Group Communications www.gunnebogroup.com Gunnebo discloses the information provided herein pursuant to the Swedish Securities Markets Act and/or the Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication at 15.01 CET on June 30, 2016. The Gunnebo Group is a global leader in security products, services and solutions with an offering covering cash management, safes and vaults, entrance security and electronic security for banks, retail, CIT, mass transit, public commercial buildings and industrial high-risk sites. The Group has an annual turnover of 660 million, employs 5,500 people and has sales companies in 32 countries across Europe, Middle East Africa, Asia-Pacific and the Americas as well as Channel Partners on over 100 additional markets. We make your world safer. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005693/en/ Contacts: Gunnebo Group For more information, please contact: Henrik Lange, President CEO Gunnebo AB, tel: +46 10 2095 000 or Karin Wallstrom, Marketing Communication Director Gunnebo AB, tel. +46 10 2095 026, karin.wallstrom@gunnebo.com HONG KONG, CHINA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Weyland Tech Inc. (OTCQB: WEYL) ("Weyland Tech" or the "Company"), a provider of mobile business applications, announces that it has signed a Master Service Agreement ("MSA") with Orient Asia Pacific Limited. ("OAP"), for the Indonesia market. OAP will market CreateApp products in Indonesia under the CreateApp Indonesia brand. Together with its regional and in-country partners in payment, distribution logistics and eCommerce fulfillment, OAP will deploy CreateApp mobile enabler applications in a unified end-to-end supply chain process to benefit merchants and customers in expanded markets, some of which could not be as effectively accessed hitherto. OAP will also target specific community groups to further their businesses through mobile channels. Terms of the MSA are confidential for competitive reasons. About Orient Asia Pacific Limited Orient Asia Pacific is a software and digital technology consulting company. Together with our technology partners, we create key technology innovations, smart systems and advanced digital solutions to deliver practical solutions and competitive advantage to our clientele. We serve a wide array of industries including eCommerce, mCommerce, logistics, telecommunications, utilities, facilities management, and infrastructure security. About Weyland Tech Inc. Weyland Tech's CreateApp platform is focused on the Asia markets. Our CreateApp platform is offered in 12 languages and enables small-medium-sized businesses ("SMB's") to create a mobile application ("APP") without the need of technical knowledge and background. SMB's can increase sales, reach more customers and promote their products and services via a simple easy to build mobile APPs in an affordable and cost-effective manner. Safe Harbor Statement This release contains certain "forward-looking statements" relating to the business of the Company. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements" including statements regarding: the continued growth of the e-commerce segment and the ability of the Company to continue its expansion into that segment; the ability of the Company to attract customers and partners and generate revenues; the ability of the Company to successfully execute its business plan; the business strategy, plans, and objectives of the Company; and any other statements of non-historical information. These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume any duty to update these forward-looking statements. Weyland Tech Inc. info@weyland-tech.com Western is an integrated Canadian forest products company, and is the largest coastal British Columbia woodland operator and lumber producer. The Company has an annual available harvest of approximately 6.3 million cubic metres of timber, of which approximately 6.1 million cubic metres is from Crown lands. Western has a lumber capacity in excess of 1.1 billion board feet from seven sawmills and two remanufacturing plants. Principal activities conducted by the Company include timber harvesting, reforestation, sawmilling logs into lumber and wood chips, and value-added remanufacturing. Substantially all of Western's operations, employees and corporate facilities are located in the coastal region of British Columbia, with sales worldwide Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. SEATTLE, WA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- CFN Media Group and its parent company TDM Financial, the leading financial networks for emerging public companies, today announced that Michael James Enterprises Inc. (OTCQB: MJTV) has engaged its agency services to launch a 6-month market and investor visibility program beginning on July 5th, 2016. "We are excited to be working with a promising new skincare and beauty brand that's employing never before used patented disruptive science in innovative and exciting ways," said CFN Media President Frank Lane. "Michael James Enterprises' up listing to the OTCQB from the Pink Sheets and definitive merger agreement open the door to new investors interested in the space, while its innovative acne treatment system targets an enormous end market." Michael James Enterprises develops skincare and beauty brands backed by science and disruptive technology. The company's initial focus is the development and commercialization of a game changing FDA compliant OTC (over-the-counter) acne treatment system. To accomplish this goal, they licensed patented science from a world-renowned Ivy League institution, developed by one of the world's leading researchers on antimicrobial topical creams and infection control. James Farinella, CEO of Michael James Enterprises, stated, "With the up listing to the OTCQB and the definitive merger agreement signed, I felt it was the time to begin to introduce MJTV to the investment community. I cannot be more pleased that TDM Financial was willing to take us on as a client. I am taking every step that I can to provide for the most conducive environment for an orderly market for MJTV." TDM Financial will leverage its financial networks including CannabisFN.com and SECFilings.com together with its extensive reach and presence within the North American public markets and award winning content development platform to develop emerging growth investors for Michael James Enterprises Inc. Learn how to become a CFN Media client company, brand or entrepreneur: http://www.cannabisfn.com/become-featured-company/ Download the CFN Media iOS mobile app to access the world of cannabis from the palm of your hand: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cannabisfn/id988009247?ls=1&mt=8 Or visit our homepage and enter your mobile number under the Apple App Store logo to receive a download link text on your iPhone: http://www.cannabisfn.com About CFN Media CFN Media, the leading creative agency and media network dedicated to legal cannabis, helps marijuana businesses attract investors, customers (B2B, B2C), capital, and media visibility. Private and public marijuana companies and brands in the US and Canada rely on CFN Media to grow and succeed. CFN launched in June of 2013 to initially serve the growing universe of publicly traded marijuana companies across North America. Today, CFN Media is also the digital media choice for the emerging brands in the space. About Michael James Enterprises Inc. Michael James Enterprises develops skincare and beauty brands backed by science and disruptive technology. The company's initial focus is the development and commercialization of a game changing FDA OTC (over-the-counter) acne treatment system. To accomplish this goal, they licensed patented science from a world-renowned Ivy League institution, developed by one of the world's leading researchers on antimicrobial topical creams and infection control. For more information, visit the company's website at www.mjenterprises.com. CFN Media Frank Lane President (206) 369-7050 flane@cannabisfn.com The Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Kauno Energija (code of enterprise 235014830, address Raudondvario av. 84, Kaunas) is convoked on 29 July 2016 by the decision No 2016-14-1 of 30 June 2016 of Company's Management Board "Regarding Convocation of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Kauno Energija and unveiling of agenda and project of decision on agenda issue".The date of the Extraordinary General Meeting is 29 July 2016, Thursday. Time - 1 p.m. Place - Company's hall at Raudondvario av. 86A (first floor), Kaunas, Lithuania. Registration of shareholders starts at 12.30 p.m.The agenda and resolutions projects for the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders:1. Regarding approval of agreement signed between AB Kauno Energija and UAB E energija on acquisition of shares of UAB Petrasiunu Katiline signed on June 23Resolution project - the Extraordinary General Meeting after survey and evaluation of the agreement signed between AB Kauno Energija and UAB E energija on acquisition of the shares of UAB Petrasiunu Katiline signed on June 23 approves this agreement.The AB Kauno Energija will not provide the possibility to participate and vote in the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders through electronic communication channels.The account date of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders -22 July 2016. Persons, who will own the shares of AB Kauno Energija as at the end of the working day of 22 July 2016 will have the right to take part and to vote Extraordinary General Meeting of shareholders.AB Kauno Energija share capital is divided into 42,802,143 (forty-two million eight hundred and two thousand one hundred forty three) ordinary registered shares. All of these shares carry the right to vote with their shareholders.The person participating in Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders must submit an identity document. A person who is not a shareholder, along with this document also must submit a document confirming the right to vote at the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. The authorized person at the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders shall have the same rights as it should represent by the shareholder. Shareholder's right to attend the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders also include the right to ask questionsPlease be informed that shareholders, who are entitled to participate at the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders, own the right to authorize by electronic means physical or legal person to attend and vote on behalf of them at the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. Power of attorney that is issued by the shareholder must be submitted by sending e-mail s.meskauskas@kaunoenergija.lt not later than 28 July 2016 (4.30 p.m.).Please be informed that decisions which are included into Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders agenda can be voted in written by completing the general ballot paper. If the person who had completed the general ballot paper is not a shareholder, the completed general ballot paper must be accompanied by a document confirming the right to vote. The duly completed general ballot paper (voting bulletin) should be sent by mail or delivered directly to the Company's office at Raudondvario av. 84, room 203, Kaunas till 29 July 2016 (12 a.m.). The Company reserves the right not to include in the shareholder vote early, if the general ballot paper does not meet the third and fourth parts of the 30 Article of Law on Companies requirements or the general ballot paper is written in a way that it is impossible to establish shareholder's will on a separate issue.The agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders may be supplemented by initiative of shareholders who own shares no less than 1/20 of all the votes. Proposals to the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders may be submitted by mail or delivered to the Company's representative office at Raudondvario av. 84, room 203, Kaunas no later than 14 July 2016.Please be informed that, along with a proposal to supplement the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders must be submitted the drafts of proposed decisions, or if the decisions shall not be adopted, explanations on each of the proposed issue.Please be informed that, shareholders who own shares no less than 1/20 of all votes own the right at any time before the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders or during the meeting in writing or by mail propose new draft decisions related to the questions included into agenda.Shareholders own the right to ask the questions concerning the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. Questions may be submitted by e-mail s.meskauskas@kaunoenergija.lt or delivered directly to the Company's office at Raudondvario av. 84, room 203, Kaunas, not later than 4.30 p.m. of 25 July 2016.Starting from 4 July 2016 the shareholders can get acquainted with the company's documents related to the agenda of shareholders meeting and decisions projects of the meeting and information relating to shareholders' rights by coming to the company - Raudondvario av. 84, Kaunas or in the webpage of the company (http://www.kaunoenergija.lt).Loreta Miliauskiene, Head of the Economics and Planning Department, tel. +370 37 305 855Attachment:https://cns.omxgroup.com/cds/DisclosureAttachmentServlet?messageAttachmentId=577263 LOS GATOS, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- The first step to solving any problem is recognizing that it exists. With billions of dollars' worth of tech products being sold on the gray market each year, it's clear that the IT industry has a problem -- and a big one at that. Unlike black market products -- which are stolen or counterfeit -- gray market goods are genuine, branded products sold through unofficial distribution channels. Gray marketing is not necessarily an illegal practice, but -- as unauthorized sales continue to raise costs, contribute to lost revenues and damage brand reputations -- stopping it is in the best interest of the tech sector. With this in mind, AGMA, a non-profit organization and the largest group solely focused on Intellectual Property protection in the high-tech industry, is educating manufacturers on how to identify gray market activities and arming them with strategies to counteract it. How does it Happen? Whenever the lowest price is the customer's top priority, gray marketing has a chance to enter the picture. Global price differences, lack of cross-border regulations, importing practices and third party brokers who operate outside of the authorized channel can all contribute to products being leaked from authorized channels. Commoditized tech items are especially susceptible. In order for a product to be attractive to gray marketers, it needs to be small, valuable and standardized (i.e., it needs to work the same way in San Francisco, Poland and Taiwan.) These attributes make items such as ink and toner cartridges, hard drives, switches, servers and memory modules among the products that show up in the gray market most often. How Big is the Problem? The cycle that gray market goods travel through often involves several brokers and resellers in multiple countries, making it difficult to put an exact number on the size of the problem. Instead, impacts seen by manufacturers and distributors are looked at. For example, one major IT vendor estimates that the gray market costs them between hundreds of millions and billions of dollars annually. The same vendor notes that approximately fifty percent of its hardware revenue is at risk to the gray market. What to Watch For Awareness is a critical early step in addressing gray market activity. Paying close attention to the market is a must. Manufacturers that listen to distribution partners will have an edge, as they represent their eyes and ears on the front lines. For example, if complaints are being made about being constantly undercut on price by brokers or on eBay -- a gray market problem could be indicated. Where, how and for how much are products reaching the channel? If distributors or resellers perceive a lack of marketplace monitoring by the manufacturer, this can open the door to the gray market. Strategies for Success Establishing effective processes to identify and monitor gray market activity is challenging. Promoting strong gray market mitigation programs and collaborating with channel partners to drive out noncompliant behavior is essential. According to AGMA, the following tactics are recommended to deter the movement of goods to gray market channels: Establish a strong authorized channel - Do your research upfront, and ensure that channel partners are committed and trustworthy. Put pricing controls in place - Know your product's selling price in different geographies to avoid creating destinations for gray marketing. Set up discounting controls - Thoroughly vet and carefully control all discounts to ensure that they are not abused. Use contracts - Set clear, enforceable boundaries for authorized selling. Monitor sales to ensure contract compliance. Perform compliance reviews on a consistent basis. "We strongly encourage manufacturers to invest heavily in brand protection," noted AGMA president Sally Nguyen. "The work put into establishing and enforcing clear guidelines for reselling their products will lead to a healthier business in the long run. While the majority of people doing business are good and fair, it only takes one or two bad seeds to ruin a company's reputation and negatively affect everyone in the channel. By sharing best practices, guidelines and expertise, we can all work together to lessen the impact of the gray market." What about Consumers? Although consumers are not necessarily breaking the law by purchasing product outside of official distribution channels, they are opening themselves up to higher risks. Gray market goods are not eligible for manufacturer warranties and support, in fact, a warranty would typically be considered null and void in this case. This leaves consumers to fend for themselves if something goes wrong. And there are plenty of things that could go wrong. From being damaged in shipping to having been opened and repackaged or having parts swapped out, consumers buying gray market goods have no guarantees that what they have purchased is going to work. According to Nguyen, "A discount can sometimes actually end up costing more money in the long run. Products offered at lower prices from non-authorized sellers should raise a red flag. In order to ensure that they are not getting a gray market product, consumers should only purchase products from authorized resellers -- lists of which can often be found on manufacturer's websites. Otherwise, a 'buyer beware' situation is created." As an industry association, AGMA is chartered with addressing key threats to intellectual property in the high-tech industry. To learn more about AGMA, please visit www.agmaglobal.org. About AGMA AGMA is a non-profit organization comprised of influential companies in the technology sector. Incorporated in 2001, AGMA's mission is to address gray market fraud, parallel imports, counterfeiting, software piracy, and service abuse of technology products around the globe. The organization's goals are to protect intellectual property and authorized distribution channels, improve customer satisfaction and preserve brand integrity. AGMA welcomes any technology manufacturer, as well as persons or entities that own or hold intellectual property rights to finished goods outside the technology industry; product and service providers; government and law enforcement officials who provide goods and/or services to combat gray market fraud, counterfeiting and warranty and service abuse threats. AGMA uses a variety of avenues to cultivate change in the marketplace, including event speaking, educational initiatives, benchmark studies, industry guidelines, and, where appropriate, public policy advocacy. To learn more about AGMA's initiatives or to become a member, please visit www.agmaglobal.org or follow them on Twitter. Media Contact: Dena Jacobson Lages & Associates (949) 453-8080 Email Contact WEST KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- COLORADO RESOURCES LTD. (TSX VENTURE: CXO) ("Colorado" or the "Company") announces the drilling progress on the Inel Zone at the KSP Property under option from SnipGold Corp. (see News Release dated December 20, 2013) which was recently acquired by Seabridge Gold Inc. on June 21, 2016. Adam Travis, President and CEO of Colorado, states: "We welcome Seabridge and look forward to working with our new partner on the 30,504 hectare KSP project in the Heart of the Golden Triangle, in which we have an option to earn up to an 80% interest. Colorado also holds a 100% interest in the 32,825 hectare KingPin Property on trend to the southeast, thus totaling more than 65 km of prospective strike under Colorado's direction. "We have completed an incredible 15 drill holes and nearly 2,000 m of drilling in less than two weeks with one drill rig. Our exploration team and contractors are to be commended for their accomplishments as we have been the first to commence exploration in the area to get a head start on the 2016 field season. Drill core samples have and will continue to be sent to the assay laboratory as drilling continues and we anticipate assay results by mid-July on the first half of our initial phase of drilling in the Inel area. "We also continue to advance our geological concepts of the Inel Zone and are noting geological similarities and linkages with the Khyber Zone located approximately 2 kilometres to the south suggesting that the gold mineralized system may be potentially larger than originally understood (see Figure 1)." To view Figure 1, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1061069Figure1.pdf. Qualified Person Greg Dawson P.Geo, is the Qualified Person ("QP") as defined by National Instrument 43-101 that has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. About Colorado Colorado Resources Ltd. is currently engaged in the business of mineral exploration for the purpose of acquiring and advancing mineral properties located in British Columbia and is also seeking opportunities in Southwest USA and Latin America. Colorado's current exploration focus is to continue to advance: the KSP property currently under option with Seabridge Gold Inc., located 15 km's along strike to the southeast of the past producing Snip Mine; its 100% owned Kingpin property; its 100% owned North ROK property, located 15 km's northwest of the Red Chris(i) mine development, both located in northern central British Columbia. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF COLORADO RESOURCES LTD. Adam Travis, President and Chief Executive Officer Cautionary Note (i)This news release may contain information about adjacent properties on which Colorado has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this news release, constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions, including: that the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events, that the Company obtains required regulatory approvals, that the Company continues to maintain a good relationship with the local project communities. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions referred to prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work, that the Company's financial condition and development plans change, delays in regulatory approval, risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company as set forth in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis reports filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information or statements, other than as required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Contacts: Colorado Resources Ltd. Adam Travis President and Chief Executive Officer Colorado Resources Ltd. Terese Gieselman Chief Financial Officer (250) 768-1511 (250) 768-0849 (FAX) TF (855) 768-1511 www.coloradoresources.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Online home-rental service Airbnb Inc. is planning dual stock sales to help defer an initial public offering, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter. According to the WSJ report, Airbnb has lined up investors for a new funding round and an employee stock sale that will value the company at up to $30 billion. The company plans to raise up to $750 million from more than six large investors in the coming weeks. In a separate transaction, investors are said to be planning to buy about $200 million in stock from Airbnb employees. However, as the investors will be buying common shares, rather than preferred shares that grant investor protections, the employee stock sale is expected to value Airbnb at less than $30 billion. Both the new funding round and employee stock sale are expected to close this summer, according to WSJ. The cash received from the dual stock sales will enable the company to spend on its global expansion and also help relieve some of the pressure to go public. The WSJ reported that the company is unlikely to pursue an IPO in 2016 or 2017 as it continues an aggressive expansion. One hurdle to an IPO are the numerous city regulators who are trying to restrict the use of Airbnb around the world. Airbnb has also reportedly secured $1 billion credit facility from banks, which could be used by the company for potential acquisitions and to fund growth initiatives. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Presumptive Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has said some of his primary rivals should 'never be allowed to run for public office again,' for breaking their pledge last year to support the GOP nominee regardless of who gets the nomination. 'They signed a pledge saying they will abide, saying they will back the candidate of the party. They broke their word, Trump told his supporters while addressing an election rally in Bangor, Maine, Wednesday. Recalling that others had insisted that he sign the pledge for fear of Trump deciding to pursue an independent run, the businessman-turned politician acknowledged that it was a 'rough campaign' and 'I wasn't nice, but they weren't nice either.' Trump did not name anybody, but his comment was apparently aimed at his primary rival John Kasich. Jeb Bush, another primary rival and former Florida governor, also signed the pledge and later said he could not support Trump. Trump defeated a crowded field of 16 candidates to win the Republican Party's ticket for presidential race. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. BOSTON, MA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Timothy J. Wilmott, President and CEO of Penn National Gaming Inc., will deliver the luncheon keynote address to the Summer Meeting of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States, which takes place July 29-31 at the Boston Marriott Newton. "Penn National Gaming is the nation's largest regional gaming operator and has the distinction of having opened the first, and currently the only casino operating in Massachusetts," said former Florida Senator Steve Geller, founder of NCLGS. "With over 20 years of experience in managing and developing gaming operations in diverse regulated jurisdictions around the world, Tim Wilmott can provide valuable insight to legislators, regulators and other attendees on regional gaming trends and where he sees the industry evolving over the next five years." All NCLGS meetings are open to the public; registration and event information is available at https://www.nclgs.org/meetings.html In addition to legislators, confirmed speakers for the NCLGS Summer Meeting include regulators, attorneys, casino operators, lottery and pari-mutuel experts, and suppliers. The Summer Meeting includes topical committee meetings and sessions that cover problem gambling, casino saturation, the future of lotteries, Indian gaming, and Internet gaming, among others. Other roundtable discussions will focus on gaming saturation in the Northeast, gaming taxation, and gaming policy. Attendees are invited to attend a Lobster Bake at nearby Lasell University, as well as a site visit to Plainridge Park Casino, which is a Penn National property. Visit https://www.nclgs.org/meetings.html for the conference program and registration, and to make reservations by July 5 at the host Boston Marriott Newton to enjoy the special NCLGS rate of $149 per night (or call 800-228-9290). Sponsorship opportunities, as well as scholarship opportunities for legislators, are still available. Contact Gail Pagano at gpagano@spectrumgaming.com or 609-926-5100 for details. The NCLGS Summer and Winter meetings are organized and produced by Spectrum Gaming Group. NCLGS is a non-partisan organization of state lawmakers that meets on a regular basis to discuss issues in regard to gaming. NCLGS does not support or oppose gaming, but supports effective regulation and sound state policies, and is a source of nonpartisan data on issues of gaming legislation and regulation. The NCLGS Foundation, the educational and research arm of NCLGS, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. VIENNA (dpa-AFX) - The race for the UK Conservative Party leadership and the new Prime Minister threw up several last-minute surprises, with the highest-profile contender opting not to run after a close ally launched his own bid. In a speech Thursday, former London Mayor Boris Johnson, the polarizing 'Leave' advocate, defied expectations he would seek the Tory leadership. 'I have concluded that person cannot be me,' Johnson said. He was among the top contenders for the Tory leadership, along with Home Secretary and 'Remain' campaigner Theresa May, who announced her bid earlier on Thursday. Oddsmakers have now made May a heavy favorite to emerge with the top job. Nominations will close at noon on Thursday. Johnson's announcement came after Justice Secretary and fellow 'Brexit' campaigner Michael Gove drifted away to threw his hat into the ring. In the June 23 referendum, 52 percent of Britons voted to leave the EU. A day after, Prime Minister David Cameron, who had passionately campaigned for the country to remain in the EU, said he will step down in October and the exit negotiations should take place under a new PM. Since then, Johnson was seen as a top contender to replace Cameron. Meanwhile, Gove had repeatedly said he does not want to be PM and was expected to be part of Johnson's campaign. 'But events since last Thursday have weighed heavily with me,' Gove said in his statement announcing his bid. '...I have come, reluctantly, to the conclusion that Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead.' May, widely seen as a serious contender to be PM, said, 'Britain still needs a government that is capable of delivering a programme of serious social reform and realising a vision of a country that truly works for everyone.' In an apparent dig at Johnson, May said, 'Some [politicians] need to be told that what the government does isn't a game, it's a serious business that has real consequences for people's lives.' She also ruled out the possibility of holding a second 'Brexit' referendum, saying, 'Brexit means Brexit.' Further, May said the U.K. should invoke Article 50 of the EU Treaty only when its negotiation strategy is agreed and clear. '...which means Article Fifty should not be invoked before the end of this year,' she said. Others who are in the race are the Works and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb, former defence secretary Liam Fox, and 'Leave' campaigner and junior minister Andrea Leadsom. The Labour Party was also not short on drama on Thursday. Reports suggested that the former shadow business secretary, Angela Eagle was set to launch a challenge to Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. And Eagle, dubbed a 'unity candidate' is likely to face some competition from former shadow works and pensions secretary Owen Smith, if both fail to agree on a single candidate. Both the Conservatives and the Labour Party have been shaken up by the unexpected 'Brexit' vote, the result of an intensely divisive referendum campaign. While Cameron chose to step down, Corbyn opted to defend his 'Remain' stance, leading to a revolt within his party. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de BERLIN, GERMANY -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- PubNative, a mobile monetization platform that enables app publishers to execute and enhance their revenue strategy through native ad formats, announced the launch of a mobile native mediation solution that allows publishers to more effectively leverage their mobile-specific audience segmentation. Publishers can now segment audiences on a highly-granular level and tailor advertising campaigns to best suit each segment, maximizing revenue and advertising relevance. This native mediation solution provides unified access to an extensive selection of native demand sources including Facebook. It is built to work seamlessly with its mobile-specific user segmentation options, enabling mobile publishers to customise the ad-delivery by criteria such as country, platform and demographics; as well as by more advanced criteria including user profiles based on app usage, engagement and behaviour. According to Tao Li, CEO of APUS, a leading Android developer, increased engagement and improved customer experience are among the most important benefits of the real-time user personalization. "We have more than 920 million users worldwide and they are characterized by diverse interests and behaviors. Also, our apps support multiple ad placements and formats where users can interact with them. With PubNative's help, we can analyze our data to better understand our users and deliver relevant and engaging advertising to each of them." By utilizing the most granular level of segmentation available and the most extensive aggregation of demand, publishers are seeing superior results in both CPMs and fill rates. "PubNative's mediation solution allows us to gain unified access to an extremely wide array of native demand sources," said Alex Madsen, revenue marketer at Betternet. "Integrating non-intrusive native advertising has always been a priority for us, and we are now sure to receive the best possible yield for our placements." Previously, this level of integration for monetization technologies was only available to early innovators; PubNative's solution is democratizing this technology and diminishing the barrier to entry for mobile publishers who require more relevant, bespoke advertising solutions. "PubNative is currently the only player in the native mobile display space offering such a granular and advanced segmentation," says Ionut Ciobotaru, Managing Director and Co-Founder of PubNative. "We're operating at the crossroads of monetization and analytics, where publishers will earn the most revenue." Current clients include VPN provider Betternet, which serves 40 million users; APUS, a leading Android developer with over 920 million users; and 4shared, which has 30 million daily active users. About PubNative PubNative is a mobile monetization platform that enables app publishers to execute and enhance their revenue strategy through native ad formats. Via its proprietary mediation solution and programmatic exchange, the platform provides extensive tools for managing the most comprehensive global mobile native demand. The company is headquartered in Berlin with offices in San Francisco, Seoul and Beijing. PRESS CONTACT: Alexis Roberts Blast PR for PubNative 805-886-8511 Email Contact Notice is hereby given that on the initiative and by the resolution of the Board of AB Klaipedos Nafta, legal entity code 110648893, with the registered office at Buriu g. 19, Klaipeda (hereinafter, the Company), from 30 June 2016, an extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company will be held on 21 July 2016 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Company's office at Buriu st. 19, Klaipeda, in the administrative premises of the Company (in the hall of the meeting on the 2nd Floor).Agenda of the meeting:1. Regarding the approval of the decision of AB Klaipedos Nafta's Board to approve the implementation of oil terminal estacade 3A road modernization investment project.The shareholders will be registered from 12.00 a.m. to 12.55 a.m. The persons intending to participate in the meeting shall have a personal ID document (an authorised representative shall have additionally a proxy approved under the established procedure. The natural person's proxy shall be notarised. A proxy issued in a foreign state shall be translated into the Lithuanian language and legalised under the procedure prescribed by laws).A shareholder or his proxy shall have the right to vote in writing in advance by filling in a general ballot paper. At the request of the shareholder, the Company shall send a general ballot paper to the shareholder by registered mail free of charge at least 10 days before the meeting. The filled-in general ballot paper and the document attesting the voting right shall be submitted to the Company no later than until the meeting, sending by registered mail or providing them at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice.The shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes may propose additions to the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders by submitting with every proposed additional item of the agenda a draft resolution of the general meeting of shareholders or, when no resolution is required, an explanation. Proposals on addition to the agenda shall be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: info@oil.lt and r.valunas@oil.lt. The agenda shall be supplemented if the proposal is received no later than 14 days before the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. If the agenda of the general meeting of shareholders is supplemented, the Company shall notify on the additions no later than 10 days before the meeting in the same ways as in the case of convocation of the meeting.The shareholders, who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes, at any time before the general meeting of shareholders or during the meeting, may propose new draft resolutions on items which are or will be included in the agenda of the meeting. The proposals may be submitted in writing or sent by e-mail. Written proposals shall be submitted to the Company on business days or sent by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice. Proposals submitted by e-mail shall be sent to the following e-mails: info@oil.lt and r.valunas@oil.lt.The shareholders shall have the right to submit to the Company in advance questions relating to the items on the agenda of the meeting. The shareholders may submit their written questions to the Company on business days or send by registered mail at the address of the registered office of the Company indicated in the notice no later than 3 business days before the meeting. The Company will reply to the questions by e-mail or in writing before the meeting, except the questions which are related to the Company's commercial (industrial) secret, confidential information or which have been submitted later than 3 business days before the meeting.The Company does not provide the possibility of participating and voting at the meeting by means of electronic communications means.The Shareholder shall have the right to authorize through electronic communications means another person (natural or legal) to participate and vote in the meeting on behalf of the shareholder. No notarisation of such authorization is required. The shareholder must confirm the proxy issued through electronic communications means by an electronic signature developed by a secure signature-creation device and approved by a qualified certificate effective in the Republic of Lithuania. The shareholder shall inform the Company on the proxy issued through electronic communications means to the following e-mails: info@oil.lt and r.valunas@oil.lt no later than until the last business day before the meeting at 1:00 p.m. The proxy and the notice must be issued in writing. The proxy and the notice to the Company shall be signed with the electronic signature but not the letter sent by e-mail. By submitting the notice to the Company, the shareholder shall include the internet address from which it would be possible to download software free of charge to verify the shareholder's electronic signature.The record date of the meeting shall be 14 July 2016 (only those persons who will be shareholders of the Company at the close of the record date of the general meeting of shareholders or their authorised persons, or persons with whom an agreement on assignment of the voting right has been executed, may participate and vote at the general meeting of shareholders).The shareholders of the Company may familiarise with the draft resolution of the meeting and the form of the general ballot paper under the procedure prescribed by laws in the registered office of the Company at Buriu st. 19, Klaipeda (tel.: 8 46 391636), or on the Company's website at http://www.oil.lt/. The following information and documents shall be provided on the abovementioned internet website of the Company:- the notification on convocation of the meeting;- total number of the Company's shares and the number of shares with voting rights on the convening day of the meeting.Enclosed:1. Draft decision of the General Meeting of Shareholders.2. General voting ballot paper of the General Meeting of Shareholders.Marius Pulkauninkas, Director of Finance and Administration Department, +370 46 391 763.Attachment:https://cns.omxgroup.com/cds/DisclosureAttachmentServlet?messageAttachmentId=577283 FINALCAD, the French Tech startup changing the construction industry, was selected to participate in the Viva Technology international summit held on June 30th to July 2nd, 2016 in Paris. The Viva Technology international summit, organised by the Publicis Group and Les Echos, will take place in Paris from June 30th until July 2nd and bringing together the world's digital transformation leaders including 5,000 startups, dozens of international corporations, 500 renowned speakers, and 100 of the biggest VCs. More than 30,000 visitors are expected to attend and share their vision of tomorrow's innovations for economic development. FINALCAD was selected to exhibit on the "Urban Innovation Transformation" Lab sponsored by Cisco and VINCI Energies, to present the latest innovations of the construction site of the future such as predictive analytics or the SMARTSNAG technology for object recognition. David Vauthrin, Managing Director and co-founder of FINALCAD, will present the "Future of Construction" during a session moderated by McKinsey on Friday, July 1st at 11.10am in Conference Room #7. Innovative approaches such as Lean Construction, IoT, Deep Learning and Augmented Reality will be discussed. "For the past fifty years, the construction industry has seen its productivity sagging while productivity of manufacturing industries has been progressing. Digital tools can increase productivity while improving quality and reducing costs, provided that this digital transformation is inclusive and accessible to all. FINALCAD was built around this vision that we're eager to share during Viva Technology" said David Vauthrin. In addition, FINALCAD will participate in several "Challenges for Open Innovation" organized during the event. About FINALCAD FINALCAD provides mobile apps and predictive analytics that help construction stakeholders anticipate and fix issues found during the building's journey. Our mission: increase quality, reduce its cost and make it accessible to all. Since 2011, FINALCAD has helped more than 10,000 projects in 30 countries, and keeps on advancing the digital transition of the construction industry. For more information, visit www.finalcad.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005843/en/ Contacts: Press contact FINALCAD Aurelien BLAHA, +33 623 999 299 aurelien@finalcad.com The International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA) strongly condemns the terrorist attacks at Istanbul international airport, which follow the attacks at Brussels airport on the 22nd of March. On behalf of the more than 100,000 pilots we represent and our entire profession, our thoughts and sympathies are with the colleagues, friends and families of those innocent travellers and airport workers whose lives have been cruelly taken. These attacks confirm that airport landside areas, in particular terminal facilities, remain an attractive target for terrorists due to their vulnerability as a public area where large numbers of people, often with identifiable nationalities, are known to congregate at predictable times. States and Operators should prioritise the prevention of such attacks, and do everything in their power to enhance security measures at airports. IFALPA and its Member Associations around the globe are continually examining aviation security issues. We are working with Governments, airlines, and airport operators to protect air crews, passengers and staff and implement deterrence and mitigation measures against these kinds of attacks and other security threats. IFALPA will continue to raise security matters with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to ensure that international Standards and Recommended Practices provide the necessary basis for the highest security regulations worldwide. Annex 17 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, calls for States to: ensure that security measures in landside areas are established to mitigate the risk of and to prevent possible acts of unlawful interference in accordance with national and local risk assessments carried out by the relevant authorities; and ensure coordination of landside security measures between relevant departments, agencies, other organizations of the State, and other entities, and identify appropriate responsibilities in national civil aviation security programmes. International air travel is a benefit to global economies and a primary means by which understanding and tolerance of the different cultures and peoples around the world are increased and improved. Those who attack aviation do so, in part, to undermine this process of greater understanding and togetherness which is a hallmark of human civilisation. IFALPA and the professional pilots it represents will never falter in our determination to provide the safest, most secure civil aviation system we can, to the benefit of humanity and the economies of the world. For further information please contact Ms. Anna Lou, IFALPA Communications Marketing Coordinator, at +1 514 419 1191 or annalou@ifalpa.org. Note to Editors: The International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations represents in excess of 100,000 pilots in more than 100 countries worldwide. The mission of IFALPA is to promote the highest level of aviation safety worldwide and to be the global advocate of the piloting profession; providing representation, services and support to both our members and the aviation industry. See the Federation website www.ifalpa.org 2016 The International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations In the interests of flight safety, reproduction of this Press Release in whole or in part is encouraged. It may not be offered of sale or used commercially. All reprints must credit IFALPA. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005869/en/ Contacts: International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations Ms. Anna Lou, +1 514-419-1191 Communications Marketing Coordinator annalou@ifalpa.org TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX: AGI)(NYSE: AGI) ("Alamos" or the "Company") plans to release its second quarter 2016 financial results before the start of trading on Wednesday, August 10, 2016. Senior management will host a conference call at 10:00 am ET on that day to discuss the results. Participants may join the conference call by dialling (416) 340-2218 or (866) 225-0198 for calls within Canada and the United States, or via webcast at www.alamosgold.com. A playback will be available until August 24, 2016 by dialling (905) 694-9451 or (800) 408-3053 within Canada and the United States. The pass code is 5918470. The webcast will be archived at www.alamosgold.com. About Alamos Alamos is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with diversified production from three operating mines in North America. This includes the Young-Davidson mine in northern Ontario, Canada and the Mulatos and El Chanate mines in Sonora State, Mexico. Additionally, the Company has a significant portfolio of development stage projects in Mexico, Turkey, Canada and the United States. Alamos employs more than 1,300 people and is committed to the highest standards of sustainable development. The Company's shares are traded on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol "AGI". Cautionary Note The TSX and NYSE have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Contacts: Alamos Gold Inc. Scott K. Parsons Vice President, Investor Relations (416) 368-9932 x 5439 VIENNA (dpa-AFX) - A new survey conducted in 10 European nations, four major Asia-Pacific countries, Canada and the United States finds that half or more of those polled in 15 of 16 countries express confidence in US President Barack Obama and Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, but not in presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump. Across the 10 EU nations polled by Pew Research Center, 77 percent of voters have expressed confidence in Obama to do the right thing in world affairs. Europeans are somewhat less enthusiastic about Hillary Clinton, although her ratings are still mostly positive. 59 percent have confidence in her. In contrast, ratings for Donald Trump are overwhelmingly negative. Just 9 percent trust the wealthy real estate developer to do the right thing in world affairs, while 85 percent lack confidence in him. In nearly half the nations polled, the share of the public with confidence in Trump is in single digits. In the four Asia-Pacific nations surveyed - Australia, China, India and Japan - Obama also receives relatively positive marks. Most Australians and Japanese give Clinton a positive rating and Trump a negative one. The major party nominees for US President are less well-known in China and India. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Otis Gold Corp. (TSX VENTURE: OOO)(OTC PINK: OGLDF) ("Otis" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a straight equity non-brokered private placement of up to 2,941,176 common shares at a price of $0.17 per share, for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $500,000. All funds are in Canadian dollars. The proceeds from this private placement will be used for the continued advancement of the Kilgore Gold Project and for general working capital purposes. Certain current shareholders may be participating in this financing, and finders fees may be paid on a portion of the funds raised. All securities issued will be subject to a hold period of four months from closing. The proposed financing is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. About the Company Otis is a resource company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of precious metal deposits in Idaho, USA. Otis is currently developing its flagship property, the Kilgore Gold Project, located in Clark County, Idaho. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Craig T. Lindsay, President and CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof and Otis undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. Contacts: Otis Gold Corp. Craig Lindsay 604.683.2507 craig@otisgold.com According to the latest market study released by Technavio, the global scintillator marketis expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.68% during the forecast period. This research report titled 'Global Scintillator Market 2016-2020' provides an in-depth analysis of the market in terms of revenue and emerging market trends. This market research report also includes up to date analysis and forecasts for various market segments and all geographical regions. Request sample report: http://goo.gl/4ucAXp Based on application, the report categorizes the global scintillator market into four segments: Healthcare Nuclear power plants Manufacturing industries Homeland security and defense Scintillators in healthcare sector The improving healthcare services in developed nations such as the US, France, and Germany has led to the dominance of the healthcare sector in 2015 with a market share of almost 55%. Advances in medical technology are resulting in the use of scintillator-integrated devices for diagnosis and detection. Technavio researchers forecast the healthcare sector to retain its dominant position during the forecast period due to the growing geriatric population, increasing incidences of cancer, and further improvement in healthcare infrastructure, especially in developing nations. According to Asif Gani, a lead analyst at Technavio for research on embedded systems, "Scintillators facilitate improvement in the detection and diagnosis of a number of diseases including cancer. Countries such as India, China, and Brazil are upgrading their healthcare policies, which will create the demand for new medical equipment. This, in turn, will boost the demand for scintillators in the healthcare sector in the coming years." Scintillators in nuclear power plants Nuclear power plants followed the healthcare sector in terms of market share and led the second position in the global market. The tendency of scintillation materials to glow in the presence of radiation makes them a necessity in nuclear power plants to ensure safety. Scintillator detectors are used to monitor radiation extensively in and around power plants. The scintillation process is one of the most useful methods for the detection and spectroscopy of a wide assortment of radiations. Even after the Fukushima disaster of 2011, nations such as China, India, and Russia are investing heavily in the development of nuclear power plants to fulfill their electricity requirements. The construction of nuclear power plants will create the requirement for scintillator counters and other radiation detection devices. This will aid in the growth of the overall scintillator market during the forecast period. Scintillators in manufacturing industries Technavio analysts expect the demand for scintillators in the manufacturing industry to grow during the forecast period. Many manufacturing industries such as healthcare, medicine, and consumer electronic goods deal with radioactive materials for which they have to maintain safety levels for their workers. The integration of radioactive materials in consumer products has also increased significantly over the last decade. "This has resulted in increasing the awareness about the effects of radiation, rising demand for radiation safety products, and growing concern for professionals working in radiation-prone environments. Therefore, the market for radiation detection equipment, such as scintillators, in the manufacturing segment is set to grow during the forecast period," adds Asif. Scintillators in homeland security and defense sector Nations worldwide are facing an increasing nuclear threat, especially from terrorists. Governments are focusing on the development of internal security infrastructure to protect the nations from terrorist attacks. Personnel including state and local law enforcement officials, customs officials, and border patrol agents are required to use portable radiation detection systems such as scintillator counters to avoid cross-border infiltration of radioactive materials. For instance, the Department of Homeland Security has necessitated the use of large plastic scintillation detectors as portal monitors for scanning cargo from container vessels. In the case of suspicious cargo, a detailed examination is carried out using gamma-ray spectroscopy systems. The top vendors highlighted by Technavio's research analysts in this report are: Canberra Industries Hamamatsu Photonics Hitachi Metals Ludlum Measurements Mirion Technologies Radiation Monitoring Devices Saint-Gobain Zecotek Photonics Browse Related Reports: Global Third-party Chemical Distribution Market 2016-2020 Global Chelating Agents Market 2016-2020 Industrial Water Treatment Chemicals Market in Europe 2016-2020 Do you need a report on a market in a specific geographical cluster or country but can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, Technavio also takes client requests. Please contact enquiry@technavio.com with your requirements and our analysts will be happy to create a customized report just for you. About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. The company develops over 2000 pieces of research every year, covering more than 500 technologies across 80 countries. Technavio has about 300 analysts globally who specialize in customized consulting and business research assignments across the latest leading edge technologies. Technavio analysts employ primary as well as secondary research techniques to ascertain the size and vendor landscape in a range of markets. Analysts obtain information using a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches, besides using in-house market modeling tools and proprietary databases. They corroborate this data with the data obtained from various market participants and stakeholders across the value chain, including vendors, service providers, distributors, re-sellers, and end-users. If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at media@technavio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005012/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 630 333 9501 UK: +44 208 123 1770 www.technavio.com DALLAS, TX -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Pizza Patron, widely known for its PIZZA POR PESOS program, blazes into Summer by hitting all-time sales records at a number of its restaurants for the third year in a row. The end of the school year historically marks one of the busiest sales weeks for Pizza Patron, second only to the week before Christmas. This year was no exception, as 10% of the chain's locations set all-time sales records during the last week of school. "The credit goes to our franchisees and store managers who work hard every day to deliver on our promise of 'Mas Pizza. Menos Denero.'," said Andrew Gamm, executive vice president of Pizza Patron. "Our franchise partners know that this game is won on the ground in the trade areas around each store. They are dedicated to out-working the competition and serving their communities -- that's why they keep breaking sales records each year." With 93 locations open in four states, Pizza Patron is currently targeting growth in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Chicago, as well as franchise partners for international development. "Pizza Patron celebrates 30 years in business this year, and we have developed one of the strongest franchise models in the industry," said Gamm. "Our stores are community based and we seek franchisees that love reaching out and being an integral part of their neighborhoods." Including a franchise fee of $20,000, the initial investment to own and operate a Pizza Patron restaurant starts as low as $211,100. With Pizza Patron's 'Veterans Por Favor' program, the company fully waives the $20,000 in franchise fees on the first restaurant to qualified, honorably discharged veterans. For more information on Pizza Patron franchise opportunities, please contact franchise sales manager Isaiah Melendez directly at 972-982-0176 or visit ownapizzapatron.com. To visit a store, go to www.pizzapatron.com. About Pizza Patron Since 1986, Pizza Patron has been committed to making its promise of "Mas Pizza. Menos Dinero." a reality for every customer. From the beginning, the brand has been recognized for its 'fresh-dough' pizza, its low prices and its trademark "friendly, bicultural service." In 2007, the company drew international media attention with its PIZZA POR PESOS program when it began accepting Mexican Pesos at all of its restaurants. In 2012, the company's PIZZA POR FAVOR promotion that gave free pizzas to anyone who ordered in Spanish sparked international news coverage and lively debate throughout the U.S. Today, Pizza Patron is the leading Mexican pizza brand in the U.S. and remains dedicated to bringing its unique experience to life with every pizza made, and in every community it serves. Website - www.pizzapatron.com Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pizzapatron Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/pizzapatron Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3028930 Contact: Sandy Bell Phone 972-800-1745 Email Contact 30 June 2016 Queros Capital Partners PLC ("Queros" or "the Company") Audited Annual Results for the year ended 31 December 2015 Queros Capital Partners Plc are delighted to report its audited annual results for the twelve months ended 31 December 2015. Chairman's s tatement We are pleased to announce our first year financial report to our stakeholders for the period ended 31 December 2015. Key Highlights and Developments during year Company's principal investment policy is focused in two key investment areas which is bridge financing and social housing in UK and in Europe. The Company also provides consultancy and advisory services to its corporate clients. To achieve the objectives of the company, it has listed an Unsecured Bond on the ISDX exchange market for the term of 10 years until the year 2025 at an 8% coupon. The Company has invested at present in interim bridge loan contracts for the initial money raised, in order to service the coupon and further subscriptions will be invested in other larger property portfolios. It has identified high yield property investments which will be acquired subject to satisfactory due diligence when further subscriptions will be raised via bond issue. Financial Results For the financial year ended 31st December 2015, the Net assets of the company are 54,663 and it has successfully maintained its quarterly interest payments to the bond holders up to the reporting date and the board is determined to protect bondholders' interest in the near future. The Risk relating to the bond issues has been disclosed in the admission document of the company with ISDX exchange and is readily available from the website of the company www.queroscapitalpartners.com. Current Trading Outlook We continue to look and explore new investment opportunities to maximise stakeholders interest and developing our existing investments. The Board forecasts to maximise return on the investments in the near future in lieu of financial and political climate around the United Kingdom and Europe. Our board continues to maintain a high level of corporate governance and places great importance to risk management in selecting investments for the company. We expect our team to act both professionally and honestly in their day to day duties. Notes of Appreciation I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate our team for successfully meeting targets and achieving fruitful results for the company and its stakeholders. At the end I would be thankful to our loyal stakeholders for their continued support in the past and will welcome the same in the near future. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Marcel Samuel Boom Chief Executive Officer 30 June 2016 The directors of Queros Capital Partners Plc accept responsibility for this announcement. COMPANY CONTACT DETAILS: Marcel Boom, Chief Executive Officer Queros Capital Partners Plc Office Suite G4, Bredon House, 321 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV6 OJZ Telephone: +44 1293 401 293 http://www.queroscapitalpartners.com/ ISDX CORPORATE ADVISER: Alexander David Securities Limited David Scott - Corporate Finance James Dewhurst - Institutional Sales Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7448 9820 http://www.ad-securities.com 49 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4N 4SA QUEROS CAPITAL PARTNERS PLC (REGISTERED NUMBER: 09294394) INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE PERIOD 4NOVEMBER2014 TO 31DECEMBER2015 Notes TURNOVER 2 64,212 Administrative expenses 58,508 OPERATING PROFIT and PROFIT ON ORDINARY ACTIVITIES BEFORE TAXATION 4 5,704 Tax on profit on ordinary activities 6 1,141 PROFIT FOR THE FINANCIAL PERIOD 4,563 QUEROS CAPITAL PARTNERS PLC (REGISTERED NUMBER: 09294394) OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE PERIOD 4NOVEMBER2014 TO 31DECEMBER2015 Notes PROFIT FOR THE PERIOD 4,563 OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE PERIOD 4,563 QUEROS CAPITAL PARTNERS PLC (REGISTERED NUMBER: 09294394) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 31DECEMBER2015 Notes CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 7 668,037 Cash at bank 8 7,920 675,957 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 9 39,294 NET CURRENT ASSETS 636,663 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 636,663 CREDITORS Amounts falling due after more than one year 10 582,000 NET ASSETS 54,663 CAPITAL AND RESERVES Called up share capital 11 50,100 Retained earnings 12 4,563 SHAREHOLDERS' FUNDS 54,663 The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 29 June 2016 and were signed on its behalf by: M S Boom - Director Y Singh - Director QUEROS CAPITAL PARTNERS PLC (REGISTERED NUMBER: 09294394) STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR THE PERIOD 4NOVEMBER2014 TO 31DECEMBER2015 Called up share Retained Total capital earnings equity Changes in equity Issue of share capital 50,100 - 50,100 Total comprehensive income - 4,563 4,563 Balance at 31December2015 50,100 4,563 54,663 QUEROS CAPITAL PARTNERS PLC (REGISTERED NUMBER: 09294394) STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE PERIOD 4NOVEMBER2014 TO 31DECEMBER2015 SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwired - June 30, 2016) - Britton Jackson and Matt Fuller of Zephyr Real Estate are among the graduates of the inaugural class of Swanepoel T3 Fellows Executive Management Brokerage Program (EMBP) for real estate entrepreneurs. The EMBP, a year-long course of study which utilizes workshops, conferences and one-on-one counseling, is specifically designed to create and grow opportunities. It focuses on increasing revenue, recruiting high-quality agents, improving profitability, creating dynamic marketing strategies, and maximizing internet lead generation and conversions. "Growing a brokerage or team into a substantial and thriving business is an enormous challenge, but these graduates have stayed the course and dedicated the time, energy and resources required to supercharge their companies to the next level," said T3 Fellows Program Director Leslie Ebersole. This class of 11 was selected through an exhaustive process and is the first T3 Fellows Class. Stefan Swanepoel, owner and noted author, along with T3 President Jack Miller, and a group of qualified mentors/brokers led the class. "The T3 Fellows program was an amazing opportunity for Matt and me to learn from the best mentors in the field about growing our team and expanding our business," commented Jackson. "We're thrilled to have participated in the program, and we're looking forward to more growth." Jackson and Fuller have partnered for several years and are among Zephyr's top-producing elite. Combined, they share nearly 30 years' experience in the San Francisco market and have an enviable track record of success. They are experts in online marketing with an extensive network in the brokerage community. Working from Zephyr's Upper Market office, they may be reached at 415.939.7878 (Jackson) and 415.203.1745 (Fuller). The Swanepoel | T3 Group has been one of the nation's leading research firms since 1998 and is responsible for the publishing of the annual Swanepoel Trends Report, the annual Swanepoel Power 200, the T3 Tech Guide, and a number of national studies such as the D.A.N.G.E.R. Report (Definitive Analysis of Negative Game Changers Emerging in Real Estate). The Group also hosts the annual T3 Summit (USA) and T3 Summit (Canada), two of the industry's foremost leadership events. About Zephyr Real Estate Founded in 1978, Zephyr Real Estate is San Francisco's largest independent real estate firm with nearly $2.3 billion in gross sales and a current roster of more than 300 full-time agents. Zephyr's highly-visited website has earned two web design awards, including the prestigious Interactive Media Award. Zephyr Real Estate is a member of the international relocation network, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World; the luxury real estate network, Who's Who in Luxury Real Estate; global luxury affiliate, Mayfair International; and local luxury marketing association, the Luxury Marketing Council of San Francisco. Zephyr has six offices in San Francisco, a brand new office in Greenbrae, and two brokerage affiliates in Sonoma County, all strategically positioned to serve a large customer base throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. For more information, visit www.ZephyrRE.com. Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/6/29/11G104841/Images/Matt_Fuller_and_Britton_Jackson-77d161c4f73eb485aef1e544a8dc227d.jpg Contact: Melody Foster Zephyr Real Estate San Francisco, CA 415.426.3203 Email contact CALGARY, ALBERTA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Empire Industries Ltd. ("Empire") (TSX VENTURE: EIL) is pleased to announce that, further to its news release of June 28, 2016, the new shares of Empire will commence trading on a consolidated basis later today. A 4 for 1 consolidation of the Empire shares was completed as one of the steps of the Plan of Arrangement to spin-out the Hydrovac Business. Upon resumption of trading, there will be 64,834,119 Empire shares issued and outstanding. Under the Plan of Arrangement Empire shareholders have received 32,417,060 shares of Tornado Global Hydrovacs Ltd. ("Tornado") Empire and Tornado will provide a further announcement concerning the commencement of trading of the new Tornado shares on the TSXV when the information is available. For further information on the Plan of Arrangement, please refer to Empire's information circular dated May 20, 2016 available on SEDAR. About Empire Industries Ltd. Empire Industries Ltd. manufactures specialized engineered products and sells these products domestically and in select international export markets. The company develops; designs and engineers products for the rapidly growing, global, media based attractions market and also uses these globally competitive competencies in the optical telescope market. The company also provides steel fabrication & installation services, primarily to the industrial, commercial and infrastructure market in Western Canada. The company has two key strategic equity partnerships; a 49% ownership of ACE Industrial Services that operates in the oil sands industrial maintenance services market, and a 45% ownership of a Chinese joint venture company in the steel fabrication market in Asia. Empire's common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol EIL. About Tornado Global Hydrovacs Ltd. The company designs, manufactures and sells Hydrovac trucks for excavation service providers to the oil and gas industry and the municipal markets. Hydrovac trucks use high pressure water to pulverize soil and turn it into mud, and then vacuum up the resulting mud into its tank. Tornado currently operates in North America and intends to expand its hydrovac business into China. For more information about Empire, visit www.empind.com. Advisory The Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The use of the words "may", "expected", "believes", "anticipates" and other words of a similar nature are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Although Empire believes these statements to be reasonable, no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Such statements include statements with respect to the anticipated benefits of the Arrangement, the satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions or the release of the proceeds of the Private Placement. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of prevailing economic conditions, receipt of requisite regulatory approvals, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Empire. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent Empire's expectations as of the date hereof, and are subject to change after such date. Empire disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities regulations. Contacts: Empire Industries Ltd. Guy Nelson Chief Executive Officer Phone: (416) 366-7977 Email: gnelson@empind.com Empire Industries Ltd. Allan Francis Vice President - Corporate Affairs and Administration Phone: (204) 589-9301 Email: afrancis@empind.com www.empind.com VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Kaizen Discovery (TSX VENTURE: KZD) today announced that the director nominees, as listed in the company's management information circular dated May 30, 2016, were elected directors of Kaizen at the company's annual general and special meeting (AGM) of shareholders held today in Vancouver, British Columbia. Eric Finlayson, Richard Cohen, David Boehm, David Korbin and Ignacio Rosado were elected to the board of directors for the first time at the AGM, while David Huberman and Terry Krepiakevich were re-elected to the board. Mr. Huberman has been appointed Chairman of the Board effective today. About the new directors Eric Finlayson is the Interim Chief Executive Officer at Kaizen Discovery. He also is President of High Power Exploration (HPX), an affiliate of Kaizen's majority shareholder, HPX TechCo Inc. HPX is a private, metals-focused exploration company deploying proprietary geophysical technologies to rapidly evaluate buried mineral targets. Prior to joining HPX in 2013, Mr. Finlayson spent 24 years with Rio Tinto, including five years as Rio's Global Head of Exploration. Richard Cohen, a Professional Engineer (Mining), is a Managing Director at Primary Capital Inc., a privately-owned, exempt market dealer based in Vancouver. He has more than 30 years' experience in the mining investment industry, beginning in 1983 as a mining analyst with Prudential Bach Securities. Mr. Cohen also was a mining analyst with BBN James Capel and Goepel McDermid, before joining Dundee Securities in 1998 as Managing Director, Investment Banking. In 2011, he joined Primary Capital as a Managing Director. He also is a director of Peregrine Diamonds. David Boehm, a chartered accountant, is an investor and advisor to companies regarding the Asian and North American capital markets. He has been the Chairman of Wolmar Investments Ltd., a private investment company, since November 2001. Mr. Boehm previously was a senior partner of Grant Thornton in Hong Kong, and a director of Ivanhoe Capital Pte Ltd., a private company based in Singapore. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia and a Member of the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants. David Korbin, a chartered professional accountant, is a management and financial consultant. He has more than 25 years' experience in public accounting, including as a Managing Partner of the Vancouver office of Deloitte Touche LLP from 1987 to 1992. Mr. Korbin has been a director of many public companies, including Ivanhoe Australia from 2008 to 2010, and Ivanhoe Mines (now Turquoise Hill Resources) from 2006 to 2012. Ignacio Rosado is Chief Executive Officer of Volcan Compania Minera S.A.A, one of the world's largest producers of silver, zinc and lead with its shares publicly traded on the Peruvian stock exchange. Mr. Rosado was the former Chief Financial Officer of Hochschild Mining plc, leading the company's US$500 million initial public offering on the London Stock Exchange in 2006. He also is a director of Cordoba Minerals Corp. Kaizen would like to thank the following outgoing members of the Board of Directors for their service and contributions to the company: Peter Meredith, Ali Zamani, Akiko Levinson and Dr. Kuang Ine Lu. More information on Kaizen is available at www.kaizendiscovery.com. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Contacts: Kaizen Discovery Inc. Eric Finlayson Interim Chief Executive Officer +1-604-669-6446 info@kaizendiscovery.com www.kaizendiscovery.com According to the latest market research report by Technavio, the global azoxystrobin marketis expected to reach close to USD 25 billion in revenue by 2020. In this report, Technavio covers the present scenario and growth prospects of the global azoxystrobin market for 2016-2020. To calculate the market size, the report considers revenue generated from the sales of azoxystrobin in leading regions such as North America, APAC, Europe, Latin America, and MEA. "The global agricultural industry has undergone significant developments in the past few decades, and production has increased. This is attributable to the increased use of chemical fungicides and hybrid seeds with advanced traits. Increased emphasis on economic, environmental, and social sustainability in the agriculture sector also contributes to this growth," said Chandrakumar Badala Jaganathan, one of Technavio's lead industry analysts for agrochemicals and fertilizers "Farmers are increasingly depending on organic practices. They have initiated efforts to optimize soil productivity while preserving its ability to function as a healthy medium. This has created a shift to organic alternatives such as bio fungicides," added Chandrakumar. Global azoxystrobin market by geography North America 29.56% 29.56% APAC 25.06% 25.06% Europe 22.93% 22.93% Latin America 18.41% 18.41% MEA 4.04% Source: Technavio research Request sample report: http://bit.ly/28R8Blo Azoxystrobin market in North America: largest market The azoxystrobin market in North America was valued at USD 172 million in 2015. Azoxystrobin is subject to stringent regulations in North America. Fungicides and other plant protection chemicals undergo extensive testing and review approval before approval. In the US, these chemicals must pass 120 health, safety, and environmental tests to prove effectiveness and safety before the US EPA grants registration to the manufacturers. The arable land in North America decreased from 1.1 hectares per person in 1961 to 0.62 hectares per person in 2015. This has raised the need for increasing the output from the available farmlands. Consequently, the demand for fungicides such as azoxystrobin to improve productivity and help farms reduce the risk of crop wastage is also increasing. Azoxystrobin market in APAC: second-largest market The azoxystrobin market in APAC was valued at USD 145.8 million in 2015. APAC accounts for approximately 30% of the land available on earth and 60% of the population. The rising population and increase in food demand have compelled the use of fungicides to increase the crop yield. A larger proportion of the agricultural land in Asia is in India, which forms 62% of the land area in the region. Azoxystrobin helps prevent diseases that can cause severe damage to the quantity and quality of crops. One such disease is the sheath blight disease in paddy caused by Rhizoctonia solani. It a highly destructive disease and causes severe economic losses. The disease decreases the yield by 7%-50%, depending on the cultivar. Azoxystrobin market in Europe The azoxystrobin market in Europe was valued at USD 133.4 million in 2015. The decreasing arable land per person in Europe is the prime factor that is compelling farmers to increase the productivity of their farms. This is consequently increasing the demand for agrochemicals in the region. The implementation of a modified plant protection regulatory system and stringent regulations regarding environmental protection are also expected to drive the demand for fungicides in Europe. Browse related reports: Global Biopesticides Market 2015-2019 Global Agroscience Market 2015-2019 Crop Protection Chemicals Market in Latin America 2015-2019 Agrochemicals Market in India 2016-2020 Do you need a report on a market in a specific geographical cluster or country but can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, Technavio also takes client requests. Please contact enquiry@technavio.com with your requirements and our analysts will be happy to create a customized report just for you. About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. The company develops over 2000 pieces of research every year, covering more than 500 technologies across 80 countries. Technavio has about 300 analysts globally who specialize in customized consulting and business research assignments across the latest leading edge technologies. Technavio analysts employ primary as well as secondary research techniques to ascertain the size and vendor landscape in a range of markets. Analysts obtain information using a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches, besides using in-house market modeling tools and proprietary databases. They corroborate this data with the data obtained from various market participants and stakeholders across the value chain, including vendors, service providers, distributors, re-sellers, and end-users. If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at media@technavio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005032/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 630 333 9501 UK: +44 208 123 1770 www.technavio.com media@technavio.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - On the heels of the mass shooting in Orlando earlier this month, the results of a Quinnipiac University poll found that American voters overwhelmingly agree that people on the government's terrorist watch list should not be allowed by purchase guns. Eighty-six percent of voters said they support banning those on the terrorist watch list from purchasing guns, while just 12 percent oppose the idea. The poll showed strong support for a so-called 'No-Fly, No-Buy' law across all political affiliations and demographic groups. Despite the strong support, separate proposals temporarily or permanently blocking a gun purchase by a suspected terrorist failed in the Senate last week. The measures were introduced after it was revealed that the gunman responsible for the Orlando shooting was interviewed by the FBI at least three times. Despite being placed on a terrorism watch list from 2013 until 2014, the gunman was able to legally purchase two firearms used in the attack. The Quinnipiac survey also found that the vast majority of Americans support requiring background checks for all gun purchases. Ninety-three percent of voters, including 92 percent of voters in households where there is a gun, support universal background checks. Nonetheless, the Senate also failed to approve a proposal that would have expanded background checks to gun shows and internet sales. 'The people have spoken time and again, but nothing changes,' said Tim Malloy, assistant director of the Quinnipiac University Poll. 'American voters clearly are worried about guns,' he added. 'They want to make it harder for bad people to get them and believe it can be done without penalizing legitimate gun owners.' The poll found that voters support stricter gun laws by 54 percent to 42 percent, although voters in gun households oppose stricter gun laws by 56 percent to 39 percent. The Quinnipiac survey of 1,610 registered voters was conducted June 21st through 27th and has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.4 percentage points. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de Regulatory News: Axactor (OSE:AXAO) (OSE:NMGO) As already informed, Axactor has in June 2016 registered a directed share issue. In total, 49,033,589 new ordinary shares were issued during the month. Total number of shares and votes post the issue thereby increased from 876,614,360 to 925,647,949. The share capital increased by SEK 24,516,794.50 to SEK 462,823,974.50. This announcement follows standard information requirements for Swedish public companies at end of month during periods when the share capital has been changed, in accordance with Section 9 Chapter 4 of the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act (Sw. Lag (1991:980 om handel med finansiella instrument). Cautionary Statement: Statements and assumptions made in this document with respect to Axactor AB's ("Axactor") current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs, and other statements that are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements about the future performance of Axactor. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those using words such as "may", "might", "seeks", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "believes", "projects", "plans", strategy", "forecast" and similar expressions. These statements reflect management's expectations and assumptions in light of currently available information. They are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, (i) changes in the economic, regulatory and political environments in the countries where Axactor operates; (ii) changes relating to the statistic information available in respect of the various debt collection projects undertaken; (iii) Axactor's continued ability to secure enough financing to carry on its operations as a going concern; (iv) the success of its potential partners, ventures and alliances, if any; (v) currency exchange rate fluctuations between the SEK and the currencies in other countries where Axactor or its subsidiaries operate. In the light of the risks and uncertainties involved in the debt collection business, the actual results could differ materially from those presented and forecast in this document. Axactor assumes no unconditional obligation to immediately update any such statements and/or forecasts. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630006164/en/ Contacts: Axactor AB Geir Johansen Chief Financial Officer geir.johansen@axactor.com Cell Phone: +47 477 10 451 HOUSTON, TX -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Willbanks & Associates hosted a lunch and learn event on Wednesday, June 29th with guest speaker Rob Troutt, Chief Boiler Inspector of Texas, to educate contractors, professional engineers, and boiler installers on the new Texas boiler laws and regulations. Over 80 professionals attended the event which was held at the Cadillac Bar in Houston. Willbanks & Associates hosted the event to inform local industry professionals about the recent Texas boiler regulation and installation law update that went into effect February 15th of this year. The presentation covered the changes to the laws and rules as well as an explanation of the new forms and their requirements. "We take it as our job to educate our clients on the ongoings of boiler codes," said Trey Willbanks, President and CEO of Willbanks & Associates. "We want our clients to be prepared when taking our equipment and installing it in the field." Troutt's presentation discussed the new laws and rules and the responsibility that installers and engineers must take on as a result. He also walked attendees through the new boiler installation report, manufacturer's data report, and the temporary operating permits that accompany the new codes. "I'm hoping everyone walked away with a better understanding of the requirements with regards to boiler installation reports and temporary operating permits and what's expected," said Troutt. "A lot of these changes are coming about because of new technology that is allowing for boilers with higher efficiency. With the technology change, the rules have to change to accommodate that technology," he continued. Tim McNulty, owner of Texas Draft, also spoke at the event, discussing the proper ventilation of boilers and water heaters. He walked attendees through real-life examples of chimney and ventilation mistakes and discussed the results of those mistakes as well as how they could have been prevented. "New technology in boilers is requiring chimney systems and venting systems to become more accurate and precise," McNulty said. "These systems are becoming a science and need to be looked at as a physical system. I hope people walked away with the idea of how important proper ventilation is for safety." The lunch and learn event concluded with a question and answer session to further clarify the new rules and laws, and to make sure everyone left with a strong understanding of the changes. Willbanks & Associates plans to host additional lunch and learn events with Troutt to further industry wide understanding of boiler related policies and procedures. "We're looking at doing another event here in Houston, one down in the valley, and one in Austin," said Troutt. "I'm also looking at doing another event with Tim McNulty in Dallas-Fort Worth." Finally, a raffle drawing was held where several soft coolers were given away to attendees. For more information on Willbanks & Associates and their products and services, please visit www.willbanksinc.com. About Willbanks & Associates Willbanks & Associates has provided advanced solutions and support for thousands of commercial heating systems and equipment since 1977. Willbanks & Associates offers a wide range of expertise including MEP applications and design collaboration, equipment sales, service and preventative maintenance, turnkey mechanical piping solutions, managed hot water systems, and equipment and parts inventory. They offer custom solutions to fit specific needs and work closely with trusted manufacturers to offer top quality boilers and related equipment. Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3029051 Press Contact: Karen Franco 832-350-4161 Email Contact BROOKFIELD, NEWS -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Brookfield Property Partners, L.P. (NYSE: BPY) (TSX: BPY.UN) announced today that its 2016 second quarter financial results will be released prior to the market open on Friday, August 5, 2016. Analysts, investors and other interested parties are invited to participate in the company's live conference call reviewing the results on Friday, August 5 at 11:00 AM (ET). Scheduled speakers are Chief Executive Officer Brian Kingston and Chief Financial Officer Bryan Davis. Along with the earnings news release, an updated supplemental information package will be available on the company's website, www.brookfieldpropertypartners.com, before the market open on August 5, 2016. To participate in the conference call, please dial toll free 888-401-4675 or toll 719-457-2651, passcode: 4759434, five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call. Live audio of the call will also be available via webcast at www.brookfieldpropertypartners.com. A replay of this call can be accessed through September 5, 2016 by dialing toll free 888-203-1112 or toll 719-457-0820, passcode: 4759434. A replay of the webcast will be available at www.brookfieldpropertypartners.com for 90 days. Brookfield Property Partners Brookfield Property Partners is one of the world's largest commercial real estate companies, with over $65 billion in total assets. We are leading owners, operators and investors in commercial property assets, with a diversified portfolio that includes over 150 premier office properties and over 120 best-in-class retail malls around the world. We also hold interests in multifamily, triple net lease, industrial, hospitality and self-storage assets. Brookfield Property Partners is listed on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges. Further information is available at www.brookfieldpropertypartners.com. Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information. Brookfield Property Partners is the flagship listed real estate company of Brookfield Asset Management, a leading global alternative asset manager with approximately $240 billion in assets under management. Certain of our investor relations content is also available on our investor relations app. To download Brookfield Property Partners' investor relations app, which offers access to SEC filings, press releases, presentations and more, please visit https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/brookfield-property-partners/id1052584266?ls=1&mt=8 to download on your iPhone or iPad or https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.theirapp.brookfield for your Android mobile device. Brookfield Contact: Matthew Cherry Vice President, Investor Relations and Communications Tel: (212) 417-7488 Email: Email Contact COLORADO SPRINGS, CO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Gold Resource Corporation (NYSE MKT: GORO) (the "Company") announced today as required by Canadian securities regulations that it has disposed of certain common shares it previously indirectly held of Canamex Resources Corp. ("Canamex") (TSX VENTURE: CSQ). The Company initially reported the acquisition of 22,222,222 common shares in the capital of Canamex in February 2014 which, at the time, represented approximately 18.4% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Canamex. Since the initial report, the Company has periodically reviewed its holding and, based on its stated investment objectives, has periodically sold common shares of Canamex. On June 28, 2016, the Company sold an aggregate of 400,000 common shares at a price of $0.0427 per common share for total consideration of $17,080. As a result of these sales, together with all previous sales by the Company of common shares of Canamex, the Company now holds 13,262,222 common shares of Canamex being approximately 9.96% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Canamex. The shares of Canamex are held by the Company for investment purposes. It remains the Company's intention to evaluate its investment in Canamex on a continuing basis, and such holdings may be increased or decreased in the future as it may determine appropriate for investment purposes. The Company does not have any plans or future intentions with respect to completing a corporate transaction with Canamex or any of its subsidiaries or with respect to a solicitation of proxies from securityholders of Canamex or completing any similar transaction. About GRC: Gold Resource Corporation is a mining company focused on production and pursuing development of gold and silver projects that feature low operating costs and produce high returns on capital. The Company has 100% interest in six potential high-grade gold and silver properties at its producing Oaxaca, Mexico Mining Unit and exploration properties at its Nevada, USA, Mining Unit. The Company has 54,266,706 shares outstanding, no warrants, no long term debt and has returned $108 million back to shareholders since commercial production commenced July 1, 2010. Gold Resource Corporation offers shareholders the option to convert their cash dividends into physical gold and silver and take delivery. For more information, please visit GRC's website, located at www.Goldresourcecorp.com and read the Company's 10-K for an understanding of the risk factors involved. Cautionary Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "target", "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the statements regarding Gold Resource Corporation's strategy, future plans for production, future expenses and costs, future liquidity and capital resources, and estimates of mineralized material. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to Gold Resource Corporation on the date of this press release, and the company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release. In particular, there can be no assurance that production will continue at any specific rate. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the Company's 10-K filed with the SEC. Contacts: Corporate Development Greg Patterson 303-320-7708 www.Goldresourcecorp.com VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- International Wastewater Systems Inc. ("IWS" or the "Company") (CSE: IWS)(FRANKFURT: IWI) is pleased to announce the results of its Annual General Meeting ("AGM") held on June 23rd, 2016 in Vancouver, BC. All the resolutions presented to the shareholders were approved unanimously, including the re-election of our auditors, Davidson & Company, and all director nominees, namely Lynn Mueller, Yaron Conforti, Mark McCooey, Daryle Anderson and John Williams. The formal report on voting results with respect to all matters voted upon at the AGM will be filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The Board of Directors would like to thank the shareholders for their continued support. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Lynn Mueller, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer About International Wastewater Systems Inc. International Wastewater Systems Inc. (CSE: IWS)(FRANKFURT: IWI) is a world leader in wastewater heat recovery. IWS systems recycle thermal energy from wastewater,generating the most energy efficient and economical systems for heating, cooling & hot water for commercial, residential and industrial buildings. The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Contacts: Yaron Conforti CFO and Director (416) 716-8181 COOKS BROOK, NOVA SCOTIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- ScoZinc Mining Ltd. (formerly Selwyn Resources Ltd.) (TSX VENTURE: SZM) ('ScoZinc' or the 'Company') announces that it held its Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders on June 28th, 2016, (the 'Annual Meeting') and all motions were passed by shareholders. At the Annual Meeting, the shareholders voted in favour of re-electing the current Board of Directors along with a new director, Jad Fakhry, who joins the Company with a background of investment and financial analysis. Mr. Fakhry is a member of the Board of Directors of The Stephan Co., a specialty distribution company. He is a Managing Member of Poplar Point Capital Management LLC, a private investment partnership he founded in 2012. Prior to that, he was an analyst at Farallon Capital Management. Mr. Fakhry graduated from Stanford University with a BA in Economics in 2002. The Company has granted Mr. Fakhry incentive stock options ("Options") under its Stock Option Plan to acquire up to an aggregate of 33,000 common shares ("Common Shares"). All Options are exercisable for a period of five years at a price of $0.70 per Common Share. 25% of the Options will vest immediately and the remainder will vest in 25% increments every six months thereafter. Upon the granting of the Options described above, ScoZinc will have 264,000 options outstanding under the Stock Option Plan with an average exercise price of $1.77 per option, representing 6.7% of the 3,941,046 Common Shares currently outstanding. The Stock Option Plan currently limits the issuance of Options to no more than 10% of the current issued and outstanding Common Shares. In response to the continuing challenges facing the mineral exploration and mining industry, ScoZinc has implemented and continues to monitor cost reduction initiatives and prepare for the eventual upturn in the metal price environment. The Company continues to pursue opportunities to maximize the value of its ScoZinc Mine and its related exploration projects. These opportunities include, but are not limited to, the possible sale, joint venture, or other transactions with third parties. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to disclose developments with respect to the consideration of strategic alternatives until warranted. The Company cautions that there are no assurances that any strategic alternative will be undertaken or pursued. About ScoZinc Mining Ltd. ScoZinc Mining Ltd. is an established Canadian-based zinc and lead exploration and development company that owns the ScoZinc Mine near Halifax, Nova Scotia, that has the necessary approvals to restart operations. The Company has a strong working capital position and no debt. The Company has 3,941,046 common shares outstanding which are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "SZM". Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Contacts: ScoZinc Mining Ltd. Mr. Joseph Ringwald President and CEO +1 (604) 347-7661 info@scozinc.com www.scozinc.com Allegion, plc (NYSE: ALLE), a leading global security products and solutions provider, will release its 2016 second-quarter financial results on Thursday, July 28, 2016, before the market opens. Later that morning, David D. Petratis, chairman, president and CEO, and Patrick Shannon, senior vice president and chief financial officer, will conduct a conference call for analysts and investors, beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET, to review the company's results. A real-time, listen-only webcast of the conference call will be broadcast live, through the company's website at http://investor.allegion.com. The conference call may be accessed by dialing 877-883-0383 in the United States or 412-902-6506 internationally and entering Conference ID 1118635. Listeners should dial in at least 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. For those unable to listen to the live event, a replay will be available on the company's website later that day. About Allegion Allegion (NYSE: ALLE) is a global pioneer in safety and security, with leading brands like CISA, Interflex, LCN, Schlage, SimonsVoss and Von Duprin. Focusing on security around the door and adjacent areas, Allegion produces a range of solutions for homes, businesses, schools and other institutions. Allegion is a $2 billion company, with products sold in almost 130 countries. For more, visit www.allegion.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630005779/en/ Contacts: Allegion, plc Media Maria Pia Tamburri Director, Public Affairs, 317-810-3399 Maria.Tamburri@allegion.com or Analysts Tom Martineau Director, Investor Relations, 317-810-3759 Tom.Martineau@allegion.com TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- All figures are in Canadian dollars except where noted. North American Palladium Ltd. ("NAP" or the "Company") (TSX: PDL)(OTC PINK: PALDF) today announced that it has entered into an amendment of its existing secured term loan ("Term Loan") with Brookfield Capital Partners Ltd. ("Brookfield") dated December 18, 2015, to increase available funds by US$25 million ("Incremental Loan") to a maximum of US$50 million under the same existing terms. Use of proceeds is to fund the existing capital expenditure program and for working capital at the Company's Lac des Iles palladium mine in northern Ontario. The Term Loan bears interest at 10% per annum and is due December 31, 2016, with the ability to extend for one additional year at the option of the Company. The loan is secured by first priority security on the fixed assets and second priority security on accounts receivable and inventory. The Incremental Loan is available immediately in up to four advances and available until December 31, 2016. The loan is prepayable at any time, in whole or in part, without penalty. US$25 million is currently drawn on the Term Loan and the Company intends to make a first draw under the Incremental Loan of US$10 million no later than July 15, 2016. The company is in the process of completing the engineering and underground development necessary for the conversion to a sub-level shrinkage mining method and the build out of long-term tailings and water management capacity. The benefits of these two initiatives is expected to increase production and lower unit costs at the mine. About North American Palladium NAP is an established precious metals producer that has been operating its Lac des Iles mine ("LDI") located in Ontario, Canada since 1993. LDI is one of only two primary producers of palladium in the world, offering investors exposure to palladium. The Company's shares trade on the TSX under the symbol PDL and on the OTC Pink under the symbol PALDF. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained in this news release constitutes 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the 'safe harbor' provisions of Canadian securities laws and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The words 'target', 'plan', 'should', 'could', 'estimate', 'guidance', and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation: information pertaining to the Company's strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance, such as statements with respect to, long term fundamentals for the business, operating performance expectations, project timelines, production forecasts, operating and capital cost estimates, expected mining and milling rates, cash balances, projected grades, mill recoveries, metal price and foreign exchange rates and other statements that express management's expectations or estimates of future performance. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risk factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to: the possibility that metal prices and foreign exchange rates may fluctuate, the risk that the LDI mine may not perform as planned, that the Company may not be able to meet production forecasts, the possibility that the Company may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service its indebtedness and may be forced to take other actions, inherent risks associated with development, exploration, mining and processing including environmental risks and risks to tailings capacity, employment disruptions, including in connection with collective agreements between the Company and unions, the risks associated with obtaining necessary licenses and permits and uncertainty regarding the ability to consummate the Recapitalization. For more details on these and other risk factors see the Company's most recent Annual Information Form on file with Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. The factors and assumptions contained in this news release, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to: that the Company will be able to continue normal business operations at its Lac des Iles mine, that metal prices and exchange rates between the Canadian and United States dollar will be consistent with the Company's expectations, that there will be no significant disruptions affecting operations, and that prices for key mining and construction supplies, including labour, will remain consistent with the Company's expectations. The forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Contacts: North American Palladium Ltd. Investor Relations 416-360-7374 IR@nap.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - IKEA is voluntarily recalling 29 million chests and dressers in the U.S. following reports of several injuries, including deaths of three children caused by them tipping over. The recalled chests and dressers are unstable if they are not properly anchored to the wall, posing a serious tip-over and entrapment hazard that can result in death or serious injuries to children. Sweden-based IKEA has stopped selling the drawers in the US and Canada. Ikea had warned its customers to use wall mounts kit with them after two deaths had occurred. However, after the third incident, Ikea decided to recall them. In addition to the three deaths, IKEA received reports of 41 tip-over incidents, resulting in 17 injuries to children between the ages of 19 months and 10 years old. The recalled children's chests and dressers are taller than 23.5 inches and adult chests and dressers are taller than 29.5 inches. The 29 million units of recalled chests and dressers include: MALM 3-drawer, 4-drawer, 5-drawer and three 6-drawer models and other children's and adult chests and dressers. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. LOUISVILLE, KY -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Marriott is proud to honor one of its most iconic luxury hotels, as it awards Louisville Marriott East with its 2015 Hotel of the Year Award. Following an impressive year that saw the property foster a dedicated focus on guest satisfaction, the four-diamond hotel is poised to continue Marriott's tradition of legendary hospitality experiences. Its award-winning staff, having secured the #1 spot in Guest Satisfaction surveys in North America for two years straight, impeccably appointed guestrooms, upscale amenities, and location in East Louisville highlight what places the Louisville Marriott East at the top of the brand's impressive portfolio. The property is the official hotel of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and also serves as a stop on the popular Urban Bourbon Trail. Its bourbon-inspired restaurant, Charr'd, features over 200 varieties of the famous spirit, paired with delicious local Kentucky cuisine. Modern accommodations feature high-speed Internet access and large, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, along with additional perks like an in-room safe, a refrigerator, and luxury THANN bath amenities. Bourbon aficionados are thrilled with the Bourbon-themed design in some of the property's rooms, adding a Kentucky-inspired flair to each and every stay. Travelers view the Louisville Marriott East as the ultimate urban refuge, with welcome plush pillowtop mattresses that invite rest after a day spent working, exploring Louisville or attending an event at the nearby Kentucky Exposition Center or the KFC Yum Center. Upgraded Concierge Level accommodations let guests enjoy enhanced hotel amenities, including access to the Concierge Lounge, with breakfast, mid-day snacks, hors d'oeuvres, an honor bar and dessert. The signature restaurant, Charr'd Bourbon Kitchen & Lounge is open all day, inviting guests to gather with friends after visiting distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, or visiting Churchill Downs near the hotel. Patrons can savor flavorful American dining or ask about hosting an event in one of the restaurant's bourbon-inspired private dining spaces. For more lavish affairs, the hotel boasts 21,000 square feet of versatile event space, with a dedicated planning team, exquisite catering and the latest in audiovisual equipment. For more information or to make your East Louisville reservations, visit the hotel website, or call +1-502-491-1184. About Louisville Marriott East The Louisville Marriott East is the city's 4-Diamond luxury hotel, with a stylish Bourbon theme and impeccable accommodations. Conveniently located in the heart of the East End of Louisville, near I-64 and just 11 miles from Downtown and Louisville International Airport, the hotel features 252 spacious guestrooms with 42-inch flat screen TV's, in-room refrigerators and safes, and an exclusive Concierge Level. Planners can host a memorable event with 21,000 square feet of venue space, as well as comprehensive planning services. As the official hotel of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, as well as a stop on the popular Urban Bourbon Trail, the Louisville Marriott takes its dedication to Kentucky's famous export very seriously. Its signature restaurant, Charr'd, features over 200 varieties of Bourbon, as well as delicious Kentucky-style cuisine. And the hotel places the Louisville Convention Center, the Muhammad Ali Center, the Slugger Museum, well within reach. Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=3029100 CONTACT: Louisville Marriott East 1903 Embassy Square Boulevard Louisville Kentucky 40299 USA +1-502-491-1184 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sdfls-louisville-marriott-east/ Installation of further NanoActivator(R) devices at University hospitals in Cologne and Frankfurt and start of commercial treatments of brain tumors at renowned clinics in Germany Vivantes Friedrichshain, Department of Neurosurgery, has initiated commercial NanoTherm treatments for brain cancer in collaboration with Charite Univeritatsmedizin Berlin The first clinical US NanoActivator(R) was successfully installed in Seattle, Washington, near the University of Washington Medical Center, and is currently utilized for pre-clinical registration studies MagForce AG (Frankfurt, Entry Standard, XETRA: MF6, ISIN: DE000A0HGQF5), a leading medical device company in the field of nanomedicine focused on oncology, published today its financial results as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015 as well as operative highlights. Operative Highlights: Brain Cancer NanoTherm Therapy at MagForce AG In Germany, MagForce AG installed three additional NanoActivator(R) devices and qualified two of these for treatment of brain tumors during 2015, so MagForce started into the year 2016 with six NanoActivator(R) clinics in Germany participating in the Post Marketing Study. Four of these NanoActivator(R) clinics are also providing the commercial NanoTherm treatment of brain tumors patients. In April 2016, Vivantes Friedrichshain, Berlin, Department of Neurosurgery, has initiated commercial NanoTherm treatments for brain cancer in collaboration with Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin, Clinic for Radiation Therapy, which is also participating in the ongoing Post- Marketing Study. Vivantes Friedrichshain offers NanoTherm therapy to commercial patients in Berlin in conjunction with their excellent working relationship with the Clinic for Radiation Therapy of the Charite Universitatsmedizin Berlin. This cooperation between the Charite and Vivantes will provide the opportunity for patients from outside Germany to obtain this NanoTherm therapy in Berlin, which is strategically close to Eastern European countries. Prostate Cancer Therapy at MagForce USA, Inc. In the U.S., MagForce USA, Inc. has filed an Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) with the USA Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for NanoTherm therapy to treat Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer and MagForce is working with the FDA to update preclinical studies, which were conducted approximately ten years ago, to current US regulatory standards. These preclinical studies are underway with interim results clearly supporting the earlier European data. Significant progress was made toward adapting NanoTherm therapy as a focal treatment for prostate cancer. MagForce's NanoTherm therapy for the focal treatment of prostate cancer is viewed as a very promising complement to current treatment approaches. The purpose of the proposed Focal Thermal Ablation Registration study that will enroll up to 120 men is to demonstrate that NanoTherm can ablate cancer lesions for patients who have Gleason Score 7 prostate cancer and are under active surveillance. By ablating the lesions, patients will be able to maintain active surveillance and avoid surgery and other treatments all with well-known side effects like impairment of urinary and sexual functions. It is expected that the registration clinical trial will prove that NanoTherm therapy can fulfill the desired outcome in the focal treatment of prostate cancer. During 2015, MagForce successfully installed the first clinical NanoActivator(R) in Seattle, Washington, near the University of Washington Medical Center. It is operational and is being utilized for pre-clinical studies and will be utilized for the Focal Thermal Ablation Registration Study for prostate cancer. This NanoActivator(R) is similar in design to the NanoActivator(R) devices operating at university hospitals in Germany. However, the USA NanoActivator(R) has been modified to apply NanoTherm therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer in addition to the treatment of brain tumors. Financial Results and Outlook: Results of operations, net assets and financial position MagForce's financial development in the fiscal year 2015 was in line with the Company's expectations. MagForce started commercialization of its NanoTherm therapy and reached additional important milestones. Net loss was at EUR 1.5 million, so that is EUR 0.5 million above the previous year (2014: EUR 1.0 million). Adjusted for the effect of out- licensing of U.S. rights to develop and commercialize NanoTherm therapy net loss for the year decreased by EUR 3.3 million from EUR 7.9 million in 2014 to EUR 4.6 million in 2015. The decrease of the net loss adjusted for the out-licensing effects is due to the sale of four NanoActivator(R) devices to MagForce USA, Inc., first commerical treatments of patiens with the NanoTherm therapy and reduced operating costs. The out-licensing of development and commercialization rights resulted in other operating income of EUR 3.0 million in 2015 (2014: EUR 6.9 million). Despite a slight increase of the average number of employees, personnel costs have been reduced by EUR 0.3 million to EUR 2.7 million (2014: EUR 3.0 million). Personnel expenses amounting to EUR 0.6 million (2014: EUR 0.3 million) were charged to subsidiaries. Other operating expenses decreased by EUR 1.5 million to EUR 3.2 million (2014: EUR 4.7 million) and thus developed as forecast. Sales revenues 2015 amounted to EUR 2.6 million (2014: nil) and include revenues from the sale of four NanoActivator(R) devices to MagForce USA, Inc. (EUR 2.4 million) as well as commercial treatment of patients with the NanoTherm therapy (EUR 0.2 million). Cash outflow from operating activities amounted to EUR 5.1 million, compared to EUR 8.7 million in the previous year. Liquid funds of the Company include cash, cash equivalents as well as short term loans and amount to EUR 4.5 million (December 31, 2014: EUR 11.2 million). MagForce's liquidity has developed as expected by management and therefore is in line with the forecast at the end of 2015. No capital measures have been executed in 2015. The Company started commercialization and reached further important milestones in this regard. To enforce the USA market entry, MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc. have enforced the ambulatory prostate NanoActivator(R) chair development. MedTech Engineering, a 100% MagForce AG subsidiary, has established an accelerated development program starting July 1, 2016. To facilitate this development time schedule, MagForce AG was granted a credit line of USD 2.5 million by MagForce USA, Inc. To provide the USA based subsidiary with resources for an accelerated launch of the Prostate Focal NanoTherm therapy after the NanoTherm therapy is cleared for sale, Lipps Associates, LLC has provided a USD 3.0 million line of credit for MagForce USA, Inc. Outlook 2016 Looking forward, MagForce will focus on the start of the registration study of NanoTherm therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer in the USA through its subsidiary MagForce USA, Inc. Further, MagForce will continue the development of the commercialization of NanoTherm therapy for the treatment of brain tumors in Germany and its neighbor countries, which started in 2015, and will start to develop an ambulatory NanoActivator(R) device for prostate cancer. For the financial year 2016 the Company expects a thorough increase in revenues from the treatment of patients with NanoTherm therapy compared to last year. A more economical enterprise resource planning will result in further reduced operating costs. Adjusted for the special effects of the out-licensing transaction in 2015 that reduced the net loss by EUR 3.0 million, the Company expects a markable reduction of the net loss for the fiscal year 2016. By intensifying cooperations with local and international patient organizations, MagForce aims to further establish NanoTherm therapy and to increase the number of patient inquiries. Furthermore new ways of reimbursement in Germany and selected countries will be established to make NanoTherm therapy available to as many patients as possible. Also, the Company plans to enhance its presence on appropriate events and its collaboration with foreign patient organizations. Those measurements are expected to generate sustainable sales. With its liquidity and current plans, the Company will be able to cover its operating expenses through 2017. About MagForce AG and MagForce USA, Inc. MagForce AG, listed in the entry standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (MF6, ISIN: DE000A0HGQF5), together with its subsidiary MagForce USA, Inc. is a leading medical device company in the field of nanomedicine focused on oncology. The Group's proprietary NanoTherm therapy enables the targeted treatment of solid tumors through the intratumoral generation of heat via activation of superparamagnetic nanoparticles. Mithril Capital Management, a growth-stage technology fund founded by Ajay Royan and Peter Thiel, along with MagForce AG, are investors and strategic partners in MagForce USA, Inc. NanoTherm, NanoPlan(R), and NanoActivator(R) are components of the therapy and have received EU-wide regulatory approval as medical devices for the treatment of brain tumors. MagForce, NanoTherm, NanoPlan, and NanoActivator(R) are trademarks of MagForce AG in selected countries. For more information, please visit: www.magforce.com Get to know our Technology: video (You Tube) Stay informed and subscribe to our mailing list Disclaimer This release may contain forward-looking statements and information which may be identified by formulations using terms such as "expects", "aims", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "seeks", "estimates" or "will". Such forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and certain assumptions, which may be subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties. The results actually achieved by MagForce AG may substantially differ from these forward-looking statements. MagForce AG assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements or to correct them in case of developments, which differ from those, anticipated. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160630006389/en/ Contacts: Barbara von Frankenberg, +49-30-308380-77 Vice President Communications Investor Relations bfrankenberg@magforce.com WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwired - June 30, 2016) - Judicial Watch today requested that the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General investigate the meeting yesterday between Bill Clinton and Attorney General Loretta Lynch: "Attorney General Loretta Lynch met privately with former President William J. Clinton on board a parked private plane on the west side of Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Arizona on June 29, 2016, according to multiple press reports. President Clinton is the spouse of Hillary Rodham Clinton, the former Secretary of State, who is purportedly the subject of a national security crime investigation pertaining to the mishandling of national defense information processed by Mrs. Clinton's personal server during her tenure as secretary. Additionally, there are press reports that a federal public corruption investigation is on-going concerning conflicts of interest and abuse of official government office involving the financial "commitments" to the Clinton Foundation, speaking fees for President Clinton and former Secretary Clinton's official acts. President Clinton may be a target of that investigation. Attorney General Lynch's meeting with President Clinton creates the appearance of a violation of law, ethical standards and good judgment. Attorney General Lynch's decision to breach the well-defined ethical standards of the Department of Justice and the American legal profession is an outrageous abuse of the public's trust. Her conduct and statements undermine confidence in her ability to objectively investigate and prosecute possible violations of law associated with President Clinton and Secretary Clinton. This incident undermines the public's faith in the fair administration of justice. Simply stated, Attorney General Lynch's June 29, 2016 meeting with former President Clinton creates the broad public impression that "the fix is in." Judicial Watch requests your immediate and thorough investigation of the facts, circumstances, and appearances of ethical, regulatory and legal violations by Attorney General Lynch in connection with her meeting with former President William J. Clinton -- and that you report your findings and recommendations to the American public." "Judicial Watch cites in its complaint 18 USC 202 - 209; Executive Order 12674 on Principles of Ethical Conduct as amended by EO 12731; Uniform Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch, 5 CFR Part 2635; Department of Justice regulations, 5 CFR Part 3801; Department of Justice regulations, 28 CFR Part 45; Executive branch standards of conduct, 5 USC 735; and, United States Department of Justice Ethics Handbook for On and Off-Duty Conduct, 14 Principles for Ethical Conduct: "14. Employees shall endeavor to avoid any actions creating the appearance that they are violating the law or the ethical standards set forth in this part. Whether particular circumstances create an appearance that the law or these standards have been violated shall be determined from the perspective of a reasonable person with knowledge of the relevant facts." 5 C.F.R 2635.101 (b) "An employee shall endeavor to avoid any actions creating the appearance that the employee is violating the law or the ethical standards set forth in this part." 5 CFR 2635.101(b)(14)" "Attorney General Loretta Lynch's meeting with Bill Clinton severely undermined the already low public confidence in her agency's criminal investigation of Hillary Clinton," stated Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton. "In addition to this IG investigation, Judicial Watch has already sent Freedom of Information Act requests about this scandalous meeting." VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Group Ten Metals Inc. (TSX VENTURE: PGE)(FRANKFURT: 5D31) (the "Company" or "Group Ten") is pleased to announce that Garth Kirkham, PGeo, PGeoph, has joined the board of directors of the Company. An experienced board member and recognized geoscientist, Mr. Kirkham obtained a Bachelor's degree in Science from the University of Alberta in 1983. He became a Registered Professional Geoscientist in Alberta (APEGGA) in 1987, in Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association (NAPEGG) and BC (APEGBC) in 2005, in Ontario (APGO) in 2011, in Manitoba (APEGM) in 2012 and is a member in good standing in all. He is also a member of SEG (Society of Exploration Geologists), CIM (Canadian Institute of Mining), AMEBC (Association of Mineral Exploration of BC), GAC (Geological Association of Canada) and PDAC (Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada). Mr. Kirkham is a Past President of the Canadian Institute of Mining (CIM), is Chair of the CIM Best Practices Committee, and is Chair of the Geoscientists Canada, Securities Committee. He is the past-Chair of the Mineral Deposits Division of the GAC along with being on National Council and the Distinguished Lecturer Coordinator from 2007-2010. He is Past Chair of the Vancouver Mineral Exploration Group (MEG) and is a two-term Councillor with APEGBC along with being Vice-Chair of the Geoscience Committee. He is currently the APEGBC representative and director of Geoscientists Canada. Garth and other members of the EXTECH III team were awarded the 2006 Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Barlow Medal and the Award of Merit presented by NAPEGG. In addition, Garth was awarded the JC Sproule Memorial Plaque from CIM in 2010, the Julian Boldy Award in 2012, and was also recognized as Distinguished Lecturer for 2013-2014. Garth is a fellow of both the Society of Economic Geologists and Geoscientists Canada along with receiving the Geological Association's Distinguished Member Award in 2013. In 2015, Garth was awarded the CJ Westerman Memorial Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a Geoscientist from APEGBC. After 30 years of 3D computer modeling for the geosciences, Mr. Kirkham is currently heading Kirkham Geosystems Ltd. (established in 1997), which provides consulting services to the mining, environmental, geotechnical and oil & gas industries. The Company also announces the resignation of Frances Petryshen as Corporate Secretary. Michael Rowley, CEO of Group Ten, has accepted the position of Corporate Secretary for an interim period. The Company thanks Ms. Petryshen for her excellent work as Corporate Secretary. About Group Ten Metals Inc. Group Ten Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on exploration for deposits of gold, platinum group metals (PGM), nickel, and copper and in emerging districts with proven world-class potential. The Company holds the high-grade Black Lake / Drayton gold project in the Rainy River district in northwest Ontario, and also controls a premier land position in the Kluane Ultramafic Belt in the southwest Yukon Territory where it adjoins Wellgreen Platinum Ltd's Wellgreen deposit. On Behalf of the Board of Directors, GROUP TEN METALS INC. Michael Rowley, President & Director Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Statements which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. It is important to note that actual outcomes and the Company's actual results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental, environmental and technological factors that may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and prices. Readers should refer to the risk disclosures outlined in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis of its audited financial statements filed with the British Columbia Securities Commission. Contacts: Group Ten Metals Inc. Michael Rowley President & Director (604) 681 1568 VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Skyharbour Resources Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: SYH)(OTCBB: SYHBF)(FRANKFURT: SC1N) (the "Company") announces that effective June 30th, 2016, 98 Corporate Group Resources Ltd., a privately owned company, will no longer be providing administrative services to Skyharbour Resources Ltd. Skyharbour would like to thank the principals of 98 Corporate Group Resources Ltd. for its long standing association with the company. About Skyharbour Resources Ltd.: Skyharbour holds interest in an extensive portfolio of uranium and thorium exploration projects in Canada's Athabasca Basin and is well positioned to benefit from improving uranium market fundamentals with four drill-ready projects. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Falcon Point (formerly Way Lake) Uranium Project on the east side of the Basin which hosts an NI 43-101 inferred resource totaling 7.0 million pounds of U3O8 at 0.03% and 5.3 million pounds of ThO2 at 0.023%. The project also hosts a high grade surface showing with up to 68% U3O8 in grab samples from a massive pitchblende vein, the source of which has yet to be discovered. Skyharbour has a 50% interest in the large, geologically prospective Preston Uranium Project proximal to Fission Uranium's Triple R deposit as well as NexGen Energy's Arrow deposit. The Company's 100% owned Mann Lake Uranium project on the east side of the Basin is strategically located adjacent to the Mann Lake Joint Venture operated by Cameco with partners Denison Mines and AREVA where high-grade, basement-hosted uranium mineralization was recently discovered. Skyharbour's goal is to maximize shareholder value through new mineral discoveries, committed long-term partnerships, and the advancement of exploration projects in geopolitically favourable jurisdictions. To find out more about Skyharbour Resources Ltd. (TSX VENTURE: SYH) visit the Company's website at www.skyharbourltd.com. SKYHARBOUR RESOURCES LTD. "Jordan Trimble", President and CEO NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE. Contacts: Jordan Trimble President and CEO Skyharbour Resources Ltd. 604-687-3376 / Toll Free: 800-567-8181 604-687-3119 (FAX) Don Myers Director Skyharbour Resources Ltd. 604-687-3376 / Toll Free: 800-567-8181 604-687-3119 (FAX) info@skyharbourltd.com www.skyharbourltd.com CALGARY, AB--(Marketwired - June 30, 2016) - Encana Corporation (Encana) (TSX: ECA) (NYSE: ECA) and Crestone Peak Resources (Crestone), which is 95 percent owned by Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and five percent by The Broe Group, announced today that Encana's wholly-owned subsidiary, Encana Oil & Gas (USA) Inc., expects the previously announced sale of its Denver Julesburg (DJ) Basin assets in Colorado to Crestone will close by the end of July 2016. "We are pleased to have finalized the details of the transaction and both Encana and Crestone are committed to closing the deal by the end of July 2016," said Doug Suttles, Encana President & CEO. "We are now focused on handover and transition items and are confident that we will conclude the transaction within the next four weeks." The sale has an effective date of April 1, 2015 and includes all of Encana's DJ Basin acreage, comprising 51,000 net acres. "Crestone remains committed to closing the acquisition of Encana's DJ assets in the coming weeks and we are excited to welcome Encana's DJ team into Crestone," said Avik Dey, Managing Director and Head of Natural Resources at Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. Encana Corporation Encana is a leading North American energy producer that is focused on developing its strong portfolio of resource plays, held directly and indirectly through its subsidiaries, producing natural gas, oil and natural gas liquids (NGLs). By partnering with employees, community organizations and other businesses, Encana contributes to the strength and sustainability of the communities where it operates. Encana common shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under the symbol ECA. About Canada Pension Plan Investment Board Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) is a professional investment management organization that invests the funds not needed by the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) to pay current benefits on behalf of 19 million contributors and beneficiaries. In order to build a diversified portfolio of CPP assets, CPPIB invests in public equities, private equities, real estate, infrastructure and fixed income instruments. Headquartered in Toronto, with offices in Hong Kong, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, New York City and Sao Paulo, CPPIB is governed and managed independently of the Canada Pension Plan and at arm's length from governments. At March 31, 2016, the CPP Fund totalled C$278.9 billion. For more information about CPPIB, please visit www.cppib.com or follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. About The Broe Group The Broe Group, based in Denver, Colorado, is a diversified privately-owned enterprise with a multi-billion asset base. The Broe Group and its affiliates employ more than 1,000 people directly and provide employment for countless others through its Great Western Industrial Park in Northern Colorado. The Broe Group and its affiliates own and/or manage commercial real estate and other businesses across North America. Its transportation affiliate, OmniTRAX, Inc., is a leading transportation services firm with railroad, port and terminal operations, and is the 2 nd largest operator of short-line railroads in the U.S. Its energy affiliate, Great Western Oil & Gas Company, is a top 10 driller in Colorado and among the top 100 drillers in the U.S. The Broe Group has multiple other investment affiliates, including Three Leaf Ventures, which is focused on innovative healthcare technology start-ups. For more information, see www.broe.com. ADVISORY REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS -- This news release contains certain forward-looking statements or information (collectively, "forward-looking statements" or "FLS") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. FLS include, but are not limited to: the expectation that the closing conditions of the transaction will be satisfied; the timing of closing thereof; and expected proceeds from the transaction. Readers are cautioned against unduly relying on FLS which, by their nature, involve numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties that may cause such statements not to occur, or for results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These assumptions include: enforceability of the agreement; the ability of the parties to satisfy closing conditions; the value of adjustments to the expected proceeds from the transaction; and expectations and projections made in light of, and generally consistent with, Encana's historical experience and its perception of historical trends, including with respect to the pace of technological development, the benefits achieved and general industry expectations. Risks and uncertainties that may affect these business outcomes include: risks inherent to closing the transaction including whether it will close on a timely basis or at all; adjustments that may reduce the expected proceeds to Encana; issues or disputes with partners or third parties; commodity price volatility; counterparty and credit risk; and other risks and uncertainties impacting Encana's business, as described in its most recent MD&A, financial statements, Annual Information Form and Form 40-F, as filed on SEDAR and EDGAR. Although Encana believes the expectations represented by such FLS are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions, risks and uncertainties referenced above are not exhaustive. FLS are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by law, Encana undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any FLS. The FLS contained in this news release are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements. SOURCE: Encana Corporation Further information on Encana Corporation is available on the company's website, www.encana.com, or by contacting: Encana Investor contacts: Brendan McCracken Vice-President, Investor Relations (403) 645-2978 Patti Posadowski Sr. Advisor, Investor Relations (403) 645-2252 Encana Media contacts: Simon Scott Vice-President, Communications (403) 645-2526 Jay Averill Director, Media Relations (403) 645-4747 Further information on Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) and The Broe Group is available by contacting: Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) Dan Madge Senior Manager, Media Relations T: +1 416 868 8629 dmadge@cppib.com The Broe Group Ronald Margulis T: +1 908 337 0020 ron@rampr.com COEUR D'ALENE, IDAHO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/30/16 -- Timberline Resources Corporation (TSX VENTURE: TBR)(OTCQB: TLRS) ("Timberline" or the "Company") announced that it has closed the third and final tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"), for which it has received final approval from the TSX Venture Exchange In connection with the closing of the third and final tranche of the Offering, the Company has issued 3,076,734 Units at a price of US$0.15 for gross consideration of US$461,510. In the three tranches of the Offering that have closed, the Company has issued a total of 10,000,006 Units for total consideration of US$1,500,000. Each Unit in the Offering consisted of one share of common stock of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each a "Warrant"), with each Warrant exercisable to acquire an additional share of common stock of the Company at a price of US$0.25 per share until May 31, 2019. The Offering was completed under Rule 506(c) of Regulation D promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") solely to persons who qualify as accredited investors. Subscribers who were resident in Canada were required to qualify as accredited investors under Canadian National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for working capital, exploration program expenses, costs associated with claim maintenance, and loan repayments. A consulting fee was paid by Timberline in relation to this transaction to support in marketing this offering of Units. The securities offered in the Offering have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent such registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. The securities offered in the Offering are also subject to a four month hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws and TSX Venture Exchange policies. The securities sold in the third and final tranche are subject to a hold period expiring November 1, 2016. Insiders of the Company have acquired 331,733 Units under the Offering. Their participation is considered to be a "related party transaction" within the meaning of TSX-V Policy 5.9 and Canadian Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in Sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of an Insider Participation as neither the fair market value of any shares issued to, nor the consideration paid by, such persons will exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy securities nor shall there be any sale of the securities referenced herein in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is not permitted. The securities referenced herein have not been approved or disapproved by any regulatory authority. About Timberline Resources Timberline Resources Corporation is focused on advancing district-scale gold exploration and development projects in Nevada, including its Talapoosa project in Lyon County where the Company has completed and disclosed a positive preliminary economic assessment. Timberline also controls the 23 square-mile Eureka project lying on the Battle Mountain-Eureka gold trend. At Eureka, the Company continues to advance its Lookout Mountain and Windfall project areas. Exploration potential occurs within three separate structural-stratigraphic trends defined by distinct geochemical gold anomalies. Timberline also owns the Seven Troughs property in northern Nevada, known to be one of the state's highest-grade, former producers. Timberline is listed on the OTCQB where it trades under the symbol "TLRS" and on the TSX Venture Exchange where it trades under the symbol "TBR". Forward-looking Statements Statements contained herein that are not based upon current or historical fact are forward-looking in nature and constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Company's expectations about its future operating results, performance and opportunities that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. These statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the use of proceeds from the Offering, registration of the securities, advancement of projects, and exploration potential. When used herein, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "upcoming," "plan," "target", "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to Timberline Resources Corporation, its subsidiaries, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to the Company and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, risks related to changes in the Company's business resulting in changes in the use of proceeds, and other such factors, including risk factors discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2015. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Contacts: Timberline Resources Corporation Steven A. Osterberg President and CEO Tel: 208-664-4859 E-mail: osterberg@timberline-resources.com Website: www.timberline-resources.com US HealthVest (USHV), a developer and operator of behavioral health facilities, secured $50m in Series B funding round. The round was led by Oak HC/FT, with participation from founding investors Polaris Partners, F-Prime Capital Partners and Richard A. Kresch, M.D. The company intends to use the funds to further expand its coverage. Founded in 2013 by Richard A. Kresch, M.D., President & CEO, formerly Founder & CEO of Ascend Health Corporation and Heartland Health Developments, US HealthVest operates Chicago Behavioral Hospital and is developing hospitals near Atlanta and Seattle. Accredited by The Joint Commission, the companys hospitals provide specialized psychiatric care to patients with a full range of inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, medication management, residential treatment and academic programs for children, adolescents, adults and seniors. FinSMEs 30/06/2016 GreyCortex, a Czech Republic-based technology company, raised USD$1.3m in its first round of funding. Y Soft Ventures, the venture capital arm of leading enterprise office solution provider Y Soft, made the investment. The company intends to use the funds to strengthen its R&D and customer support teams and speed up the development of new product features and capabilities. Formed in May 2016 by the product team that developed GreyCortex Mendel in TrustPort and led by Petr Chaloupka, CEO, GreyCortex develops a network traffic analysis and forensics solution suite called Mendel which provides medium and large companies an intelligent system for threat identification and rapid response and detailed overview of network traffic. The Mendel solution suite is already used by customers such as the Mexican University UACM and the Czech National Security Authority. The company has purchased the technology and rights from TrustPort, part of the Cleverlance Group. FinSMEs 23/06/2016 what3words, a London, UK-based addressing platform used by organizations globally to coordinate projects and services, raised $8.5m in Series B funding. The round was led by Aramex, a global provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions, which invested US $2.94m, with participation from previous investors Intel Capital and British funds Force Over Mass and Mustard Seed. The company intends to use the funds to launch its voice recognition product in the smartphone, wearables, and automotive sectors, develop its address system in several Asian languages, grow its team and further global expansion. Led by Chris Sheldrick, CEO and Co-Founder, what3words is an address system based on a global grid of 57 trillion 3mx3m squares, where each square has a unique pre-assigned 3-word address. Already available in 10 languages and used in more than 170 countries, the solution allows everyone who needs to find or share a location whether they are navigation apps, governments, logistics firms, travel guides or NGOs. Notable integrations include navigation software platform Navmii, Norways National Mapping Agency, The United Nations data collection app UN-ASIGN, and the geographic software providers including Esri, Safe Software, and Boundless. Aramex will use the what3words address system in its e-commerce fulfilment operations across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia to further enhance its last-mile delivery solutions. The company has already invested in a number of mobile-based startups to improve its last-mile delivery solutions, including Grab and Logisure in India, Shippify in South America and CashBasha in Jordan and Saudi Arabia. FinSMEs 29/06/2016 Iris Capital, a pan-European growth stage venture capital firm with expertise in the digital economy, added Bernhard Gold as a Partner and Managing Director of its North American operations. Gold will help support the firms international growth, while sustaining the deal flow and supporting portfolio companies. Gold previously served as Managing Director at T-Venture of America, the corporate venture capital arm of Deutsche Telekom (T-Mobile). In that function, he managed the firms activities in North America, with investments in Boxfish, Cooliris (sold to Yahoo! in 2014), Delivery Agent, Nexmo (sold to Vonage in 2016), Ruckus Wireless (IPO in 2012) and ShareThis. Gold also spent time working in Europe, as the Investment Director for T-Venture in Germany. In that role, he led strategic investments in Moviepilot (sold to Webedia), mediapeers (sold to Deluxe) and Sevenload (sold to Burda), among others. Led by co-founders and Managing Partners Antoine Garrigues and Pierre de Fouquet, Parisheadquartered Iris Capital invests in service or technology companies seeking growth capital in order to realize their global strategy. Over the last 30 years, the firm has invested in more than 260 companies, of which 60 are in the current portfolio. It has over $500 million in assets under management. FinSMEs 30/06/2016 Global technology company Siemens is to set up a separate unit to support innovative ideas and to accelerate the development of new technologies. next47, whose name plays on the fact that Siemens was founded in 1847, will pool Siemens existing startup activities coupling speed and independence with a global customer base, experience, and financial strength. Led by Siegfried Russwurm, Siemens Chief Technology Officer, the new unit will have funding of 1 billion for the first five years. It will start operations on October 1, 2016. With offices in Berkeley, Shanghai and Munich, next47 will be open to employees as well as to founders, external startups and established companies if they want to pursue business ideas in the companys strategic innovation fields. The first project, following an agreement with Airbus in April 2016, will be the electrification of aviation. The two companies aim to demonstrate by 2020 the technical feasibility of hybrid/electric propulsion systems for small planes to medium-sized passenger aircraft. Other important innovation fields will include artificial intelligence, autonomous machines, decentralized electrification and networked mobility. Focus will also be on blockchain applications. In the past 20 years, Siemens has invested more than 800 million in approximately 180 startups. FinSMEs 30/06/2016 Sian Heder, the writer for the hit series Orange is the New Black, brings to you another woman-oriented drama: a film called Tallulah, which premieres on Netflix. Ellen Page stars as as the titular character Tallulah or Lu, a nomad who lives in a van and spends her days scavenging for food. A chance encounter leads her to a neglected baby, and she she runs to the only responsible adult she knows her ex-boyfriend's mother Margo (Allison Janney). Along the way, the two forge a strange bond and Lu learns what it means to be a parent as the investigation into the babys kidnapping closes in. Sian Heder, in an interview with Indiewire, told them her stint as a nanny in four star hotels, where the baby was "just an accessory to the mothers" coupled with her interaction with a friend who lived off the grid in a van was what inspired her to write the story. Tallulah made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and has been screened in several other film festivals since. Here's the trailer of the critically acclaimed movie, which will be screened directly via Netflix: General Electric Co.'s slimmed down financing arm shed its "too big to fail" designation on Wednesday, no longer deemed by the U.S. government "systemically important" and so liable to wreck the economy in the event it runs into distress. The move by the Financial Stability Oversight Council was the first time a non-banking firm has been freed from the designation, a product of the financial crash that can trigger stricter oversight and requirements to hold more capital. It was a big victory for GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt, who since April 2015 has reached agreements to unload about $180 billion worth of GE Capital businesses to lessen the industrial conglomerates exposure to the finance sector and shed the designation. The oversight council, made up of all the heads of the major U.S. regulatory agencies, voted unanimously to remove the label it put on GE Capital in 2013, according to the U.S. Treasury. One member was recused. The council will remove a designation when that company no longer poses risks to U.S. financial stability, Treasury Secretary Jack Lew said in a statement. When it identifies a company that could threaten financial stability, it acts; when those risks change, the council also acts." GE shares were up 1.8 percent in mid-day trading after the announcement, outperforming a 1.4 percent gain for the broader S&P 500 index. We have transformed GE by exiting most of financial services, acquiring Alstom, and investing to be a leader in the industrial Internet, said Immelt in a statement, adding that in the future GE Capital will support the growth of the corporation's industrial business. Lifting the designation is expected to allow GE Capital to free up cash from its balance sheet and allow parent company GE to deploy it for other uses, particularly share buybacks and its increased focus on aviation and energy. GE Capital CEO Keith Sherin said on CNBC the company will now save "several hundred millions" in regulatory oversight costs over a year. In March GE Capital formally asked the government to remove the "too big to fail" label, saying the unit had shrunk to the point where it would not pose a major threat to the country's financial stability if it experienced distress. DODD-FRANK RULES Since the Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform law was passed in 2010, regulators have designated only four non-banks as systemically important. GE Capital was the first to apply to have the designation removed, and has worked for more than a year with the council on how best to address its concerns. The designation process has come under more scrutiny lately, with a federal judge ruling in March the label does not apply to life insurer MetLife. The U.S. government has appealed the decision, and last week the authors of Dodd-Frank filed briefs supporting it. American International Group, the insurer that received a federal bailout of $182 billion during the financial crisis, is also deemed systemically important, along with Prudential Financial Inc.. The council's 23-page analysis laying out reasons for rescinding GE Capital's designation will likely not map out how other firms can apply for their own removal, as the FSOC has said its determinations are made on company-specific evaluations taking into account unique risks posed by each company. The FSOC designated GE Capital because of its "reliance on short-term wholesale funding and its leading position in a number of funding markets," Lew said. "Since then, GE Capital has made fundamental strategic changes that have resulted in a company that is significantly smaller and safer, with more stable funding," he added. GE Capital has said it expects to return about $35 billion in dividends to the parent company, subject to regulatory approval, including about $18 billion this year. Most investors had expected the designation to be lifted, but later this year. The fact it came earlier than expected could give GE Capital "some upside flexibility on its $18 billion dividend guidance for this year" and "provides a bit more flexilibity on industrial balance sheet leverage," said Morgan Stanley analyst Nigel Coe in a note. "We think investor attention will now naturally turn to potential M&A targets for GE, unless we see a sharp share price pull-back," said Credit Suisse analyst Julian Mitchell in a note, adding that digital and software, aviation and oil and gas acquisitions could be attractive. (Reporting by Lisa Lambert; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Frances Kerry) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. NEW YORK/LONDON The value of announced mergers and acquisitions (M&A) worldwide dropped by a third in the second quarter of 2016, as a wave of transactions were abandoned in the wake of concerns over regulatory and tax risks or national security. While 2015 was a record year for M&A, 2016 is shaping up to be a record year for 'broken' deals, as the United States flexes its antitrust muscle and seeks to crack down on deals that aid tax avoidance or risk harming national security. Such upsets have caused company executives to think twice before contemplating complex deals that could attract government scrutiny. Coupled with market volatility triggered by Britain's vote to leave the European Union last week, this has dented some of the confidence required by corporate boards to approve deals. "This year companies have been reluctant to take on meaningful regulatory or tax risk or to pursue unsolicited transactions to the same extent that many companies did last year. The fact that a number of those deals were not ultimately successful has undoubtedly had an impact," said Gary Posternack, global head of M&A at Barclays Plc (BARC.L). Last year's biggest deal, U.S. drug maker Pfizer Inc's (PFE.N) $160 billion agreement to acquire Dublin-based Botox maker Allergan Plc (AGN.N), was abandoned last April after the U.S. Treasury introduced new rules to curb so-called inversions that are used by companies to lower their bills by redomiciling overseas. U.S. oilfield services providers Halliburton Co (HAL.N) and Baker Hughes Inc (BHI.N) last month terminated their $38 billion merger deal after opposition from U.S. and European antitrust regulators. In February, Koninklijke Philips NV (PHG.AS) canceled a planned $2.8 billion sale of its lighting-components unit to a consortium led by China's GO Scale Capital after the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, which scrutinizes deals on national security grounds, objected. Such moves affected new dealmaking. Announced global M&A deals reached a value of $839 billion in the second quarter, down 32.5 percent from a year ago but up 14.2 percent from the first quarter of 2016, according to preliminary Thomson Reuters data. The second quarter's biggest deal was German chemicals and life sciences company Bayer AG's (BAYGn.DE) $62 billion offer for U.S. seeds company Monsanto Co (MON.N). The two companies have yet to successfully negotiate a deal. Other deals this quarter included Abbott Laboratories' (ABT.N) $30.5 billion takeover of U.S. medical products maker St Jude Medical Inc (STJ.N) and Microsoft Corp's (MSFT.O) $26.2 billion agreement to acquire U.S. professional social media platform LinkedIn Corp (LNKD.N). Weighing on M&A has been the recent negative reaction that acquirers have seen in their stock price following a deal announcement. This may be partly due to companies paying more on average to buy companies this year than they did last year. After declining to 25 percent in 2015, their lowest level since 2006, bid premiums increased to 34 percent this year, modestly above the long-term average of 33 percent, according to a research note this week by Goldman Sachs Group Inc (GS.N) analysts. "It's too premature to say if the Brexit decision will cause any slowdown in global M&A activity. The key drivers of a healthy dealmaking environment remain: the need to supplement limited organic growth with M&A, the opportunity to improve margins by realizing synergies, and the availability of low-cost capital to finance acquisitions," said Matt McClure, Goldman's co-head of M&A in the Americas. BREXIT JITTERS Dealmaking in Britain, which accounts for 7.0 percent of global M&A volume, has suffered, with M&A announcements down 85 percent year-on-year in the second quarter. "Brexit is likely to have an impact on M&A going forward. It has increased market volatility and negatively impacted the global economic outlook. Ongoing uncertainty will inevitably lead to a more cautious approach to M&A for the rest of the year," said Adrian Mee, Bank of America Corp's (BAC.N) co-head of global M&A. European M&A deals were down 41 percent in the second quarter to $147.3 billion. The United States, the world's biggest M&A market, was also down 23 percent to $421.8 billion. "While recent volatility, headline-induced uncertainty and macro headwinds may create a challenging environment for global deal flow, we expect U.S. focused M&A to remain relatively strong," said Vito Sperduto, head of U.S. M&A at RBC Capital Markets RBC.TO. Chinese companies have continued to be a major driver of dealmaking activity. China outbound cross-border M&A totaled $121.1 billion so far this year, already surpassing the full year record of $111.5 billion set last year. (Reporting by Greg Roumeliotis in New York and Pamela Barbaglia in London) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. NEW DELHI The World Bank said on Thursday it would lend India more than $1 billion for its huge solar energy programme, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought climate change funds from its visiting head. Modi is banking on India's 300 days a year of sunshine to generate power and help fight climate change rather than committing to emission cuts like China. The World Bank loan is the global lender's biggest solar aid for any country and comes as India has set a goal of raising its solar capacity nearly 30 times to 100 gigawatts by 2020 and is attracting mega investment proposals from top companies and institutions. "Prime Minister Modi's personal commitment toward renewable energy, particularly solar, is the driving force behind these investments," World Bank President Jim Yong Kim said in a statement released after he met Modi. "The World Bank Group will do all it can to help India meet its ambitious targets, especially around scaling up solar energy." India is the largest client of the World Bank, which lent it around $4.8 billion between 2015 and 2016. Modi's office said he told Kim about the need for climate change financing for countries like India that are "consciously choosing to follow an environmentally sustainable path". India wants the share of non-fossil fuel in total installed power capacity to jump to 40 percent by 2030 from 30 percent currently, but there are challenges including weak finances of state distribution companies forced to sell subsidised power, difficulties hooking up solar projects to grids, and access to affordable capital. Still India reckons its renewable energy industry could generate business opportunities worth $160 billion this decade, making it a lucrative market that has already attracted big global players such as Japan's Softbank Corp, Taiwan's Foxconn, First Solar, Trina Solar Ltd and Finland's state-controlled utility Fortum Oyj. German development bank KFW has already agreed to offer India low-interest loans of around 1 billion euro over the next five years to fund roof-mounted solar panels, and the construction of solar energy farms and self-contained solar power facilities not connected to the grid. (Reporting by Krishna N. Das; Editing by Ed Davies) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. NEW YORK Oil prices jumped more than 3 percent on Wednesday, with Brent crude rising above the psychological $50 a barrel mark, after a larger-than-expected drawdown in U.S. crude inventories. Fading concerns over Britain's exit from the European Union, potential for an oil workers' strike in Norway and a crisis in Venezuela's energy sector added support to crude futures. While spot contracts in key benchmarks Brent and U.S. crude rallied, the premium for longer-dated oil spiked too as traders bet crude in storage will fetch better prices in coming months. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that crude stockpiles fell 4.1 million barrels in the week to June 24, the sixth consecutive week of drawdowns. That was more than the 2.4 million barrels expected by analysts in a Reuters poll. Brent crude futures were up $1.62, or 3.3 percent, at $50.20 per barrel by 2:10 p.m. EDT (1810 GMT). U.S. crude's West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures rose $1.60, or 3.4 percent, to $49.45. It was a second straight day of gains for Brent and WTI, which have risen about 6 percent or more each since Monday's settlement, paring much of the 8 percent lost in the previous two sessions after the Brexit vote. Among longer-dated oil futures, the discount for December WTI versus December 2017 held near the almost three month high above $2.40 a barrel seen on Tuesday. "We played on that curve to widen out and it was good for us," said Tariq Zahir, crude spreads trader for Tyche Capital Advisors in New York. The discount in nearby oil versus forward, known as contango, has widened as traders took advantage of cheap freight to store oil on tankers on expectations of further price gains by 2017 as a crude glut abates. Heating oil futures, also known as ultralow sulfur diesel, rose 3.8 percent, leading the oil complex, after a 1.8 million barrels decline in stockpiles of distillates, which include ULSD. Analysts had expected a 14,000-barrel build instead. Despite that, some traders were bearish on their longer-term view of oil as the EIA also reported an unseasonably large rise of 1.4 million barrels in gasoline versus analysts' expectations for a 58,000-barrel draw. On the East Coast, gasoline stockpiles rose to record levels. "I am still unimpressed with overall crude draws for June," said Scott Shelton, energy futures broker with ICAP in Durham, North Carolina. "With 16.7 million barrels per day of crude runs and production declines, we should have larger drawdowns for Q2. That has simply not happened." (Additional reporting by Julia Payne in LONDON and Henning Gloystein in SINGAPORE; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Alistair Bell) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. DUs first cut-off list remains too high; beyond the reach of thousands of students, who otherwise did considerably well in their board exams. Humanities closely follow Commerce and Science in Cut-off List. Ramjas College declare highest cut-off for commerce and humanities courses. Ramjas College of Delhi University has declared the highest academic cut-off at 99.25 percent for BCom (Honours), leaving behind Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) which has remained Indias top commerce college for last many years. SRCC has declared a cut-off of 98 per cent for BCom (Honours) in the first list. Ramjas College has also put a cut-off of 98.5 percent for Economics (Honours) which is more than the cut-off declared by SRCC for the same course, which stands at 98.25. While the cut-off remains high, this year, unlike the past three years, no college declared 100 percent cut-offs. While the cut-off marks for BCom (Honours) is usually high ranging from 95 to 100 percent in top colleges that includes SRCC, Hansraj College, Hindu College, cut-off for BA (Honours) use to be relatively low. But this years admissions in humanities and BA (Pass) course in top college would also be very difficult for anyone who has secured less than 90 percent marks in their board exams. Ramjas College has announced a cut-off of 98 percent for entry into Political Science (Honours). Host of other colleges have announced a cut-off of more than 90 percent for humanities. Lady Sri Ram College has announced its cut-off for Psychology at 98.50 percent, English 98.25 percent. Admissions will begin from June 30 for the academic session 2016-17. Around 2.5 lakh students have applied for applied for the 54,000 seats in 63 colleges affiliated to Delhi University. Apart from Sanskrit (Honours) there is hardly any course where a student who has secured less than 90 percent can expect a seat, in any of the good colleges of the Delhi University. Entry into BA (Pass) which usually has lesser cut-off when compared to Honours (science, arts and commerce) courses has also become tough for students, as cut-off has considerably increased in this too. For example at Hansraj College the cut-off for BA (Pass) increased from 90 percent to 96 percent. Similarly at Kirori Mal College, where the minimum percentage of marks required has increased from 91 percent to 96.5 percent. Shubhi Aggrawal, who secured 90 percent marks in her class 12 is disappointed but also relieved as she would get admission in Daulat Ram College though her acquired percentage does not match the cut-off of her desired college. I wanted to enroll in BA programme and wanted to get into Gargi College but missed it by one percent. The cut-off of BA pass in Daulat Ram is 89.5 and Gargi 91 percent. But I am relieved that I will get a seat in good college of north campus. Those seeking a seat in science courses will have to face most stiff competition as cut-off declared even by not so well known colleges for science courses is ranging from 90 to 95 percent. For instance BSc Honours (Bio Medical Science) BSc Honours (Computer Science) has cut-off of more than 95 percent in most of the colleges. A lesser known college like Arya Bhatt also has more than 95 percent cut-off for most of the science course. Priyesh, an applicant who has completed his schooling National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and has secured 85 percent marks says that he was expecting to get admission in some college in second or third list. My school friend is doing BSc Computer Science from PG DAV College. I too expected to get a seat there. But the cut-off is 98 percent and even if they come up with second or third list then also it wont go less than 90 percent . In this scenario I stand very little chance of getting admission anywhere. I am really disappointed," says Priyesh. In last few years cut-offs for admission to under graduate courses in Delhi University has left the students and teachers baffled. This year while no college has come up with a 100 percent cut-off, the fact that even in humanities courses a student is expected to get 95-98 percent marks which only speaks of the cut-throat completion that students have to face to get a seat in any of the DU college. du cut off by Firstpost Make no mistake about it. The detention of 11 Muslim youth, all from the old city area of Hyderabad, in an early morning swoop by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), is bad news. They have been accused of being part of an Islamic State (IS) terror module, out to foment trouble in Hyderabad, perhaps during the holy month of Ramzan. Five of them have been arrested and are part of the NIA FIR. For years, mention youth living beyond the Charminar and the stereotype would be that of an uneducated Muslim or at best, well-read only in religious scriptures. No longer so. Two of the accused are brothers one, a software engineer and the younger one a computer graduate. The elder one, Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani is a product of Anwar Ul Uloom, a well-known college in Vikarabad in Ranga Reddy district of Telangana and appears to be the kingpin of this module. The others are youth, most of them under 32. Nine members of the group are graduates, four of them in computer science. Though the Syria-based handler of this IS module is yet to be identified, the police confirm that the 11 youth knew each other very well. Though the NIA led the search and raid operation at a dozen locations, the Telangana police claim the tip-off came from its intelligence wing. The module was under surveillance for the past three months but it is was in the last one month that chatter was focused on carrying out terror attacks at multiple locations in Hyderabad and other cities. Apparently, the gang even dared to indulge in firing practise at an isolated place in Cyberabad police limits on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Intel cops also snooped in on conversations about plans to target individuals. It was then that the NIA decided to move in to neutralise the module. It was a classic terror module with the members engaged in occupations that wouldn't arouse any suspicion. For instance, one worked in a cloth shop, another was a motor mechanic, another worked in the government's citizen services centre. The sleuths are gauging the effectiveness of the material confiscated which includes two 9mm pistols, explosive material like urea and hydrogen peroxide, some other chemicals, electronic gadgets that can be used to trigger explosives, laptops, pressure meters, Rs 15 lakh in cash, 25 mobile phones and simcards. If the indoctrination of these youth happened online, their laptops and mobile phones, will be a mine of information. It is the not the first time that Hyderabad is showing up on the IS radar. In January 2015, the Cyberabad police intercepted 32-year-old Salman Mohiuddin, who was trying to join the terror group by travelling to Dubai and from there to Syria via Turkey. He was an engineer who had been indoctrinated virtually by a Hyderabadi woman, Afsha Jabeen, based in Dubai. Jabeen was deported to India in September last year. Between July and September 2014, as many as 14 youth from Hyderabad and Karimnagar, were stopped in Kolkata, when they were trying to flee the country through the porous Bangladesh border to fight the war for the IS. The Telangana police brought them back to Hyderabad, counselled them and their parents while the counter intelligence wing kept an eye on their movements. I spoke to one of the youths in October last year. The 24-year-old was an engineer, with looks that could easily bag him modelling contracts. He told me that his handler had convinced him that he would be serving the cause of the Almighty if he indulged in jihad for the Islamic state. Financial help was provided through middlemen and the entire brainwashing took place through chat apps on social media. Despite the watch that the 14 youth were under, two of them escaped to Nagpur to try and catch a flight to Srinagar to make their way to Syria in December 2015. They were arrested at Nagpur airport. Proof that the IS hold over them was far more effective than that of the Indian police. Today's arrests have proved that the 'treat the youth with kidgloves' policy of the Telangana police has not quite worked. The indoctrination is so deep and effective that no amount of counter-indoctrination indulged by the security agencies and anti-IS propaganda has been able to bring them out of the IS's vice-like grip. It is not good news for India that a divisive force, from across the seas, is able to reach out to young, educated, fragile minds and turn them into enemies of the state. Today's development will now make the cops suspect every Muslim student in the city or Telangana towns. Tarring everyone with the same lathi is now a real danger. The collateral damage is going to be huge. On social media, already the news of the arrests has been greeted with taunts about Hyderabad's 41 percent Muslim population. Jibes over whether the Muslim community deserves 12 per cent reservation in Telangana. It will be a matter of time before the 'Go to Pakistan' chant starts. Well-educated Muslim youth going astray, set back the entire community. Any software major in Hyderabad or elsewhere will now think a hundred times before he recruits a Muslim software graduate, more so if his postal address is on the other side of the Musi river. Policing the cyberworld through snooping already the tool employed to track such sinister terror modules becomes all the more important now. To catch up with terrorists, who have upped their game means the cops no longer can rely on traditional methods of fighting terrorism. The Telangana police have been effective so far in neutralising the IS modules but is it prepared to tackle deeply radicalised lone wolves. Politicians like Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi have a huge responsibility on their shoulders now. The tendency to exist in ghettos both Muslim and Hindu in parts of the Old city and west Hyderabad, has been like a curse. It cuts off a community's connections to another point of view, another thought, a contrarian way of looking at things. It stops them from questioning the stereotypes that a mixed religious population would allow. Some fresh air needs to flow into areas like Moghulpura, Talabkatta, Panchmohalla, Barkas, Chandrayangutta, Mirchowk and the like. The enemy has got into the galli, mohalla and homes of Hyderabad. The city needs pest control to drive out the IS termite. FRUTILLAR, Chile Argentine President Mauricio Macri and Peruvian President-elect Pedro Pablo Kuczynski urged their South American counterparts at the Pacific Alliance trade bloc summit on Thursday to deepen energy ties across the region. "Considering the new discoveries we've made in non-traditional energy, as I've discussed with Chile's President (Michelle) Bachelet, I believe the only path forward is to think about a unified energy matrix for Argentina and Chile," Macri told a packed theater in picturesque Frutillar. "And let's hope to integrate Bolivia, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay," he said. Despite being home to one of the world's biggest shale oil formations, Argentina has for years been a net energy importer as the vast Vaca Muerta formation has remained mostly untapped. Royal Dutch Shell's head of unconventional business said earlier this month that the company hoped to launch an early production well this year at Vaca Muerta, considered the world's No.2 shale resource after North America. "Our energy system, for example, has a surplus and we're looking for markets for our electricity, including northern Chile which has an (energy) deficit," said Kuczynski, a 77-year-old former investment banker who won the Andean country's tight runoff race earlier this month. Macri also argued for greater integration between Latin America's two largest trade blocs. The Pacific Alliance trade bloc, which includes member nations Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru, has moved to reduce trade tariffs between members since forming the bloc in 2011. Argentina, a member of Mercosur, Latin America's other trade bloc, is looking to bring itself closer to the Pacific Alliance. "We have to boost integration. We want a Mercosur for the twenty-first century, which has a view towards integrating with the Pacific Alliance. I believe that path is absolutely better for everyone," Macri said. (Reporting by Anthony Esposito & Antonio de la Jara; Editing by Bill Trott) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal won't visit Gujarat on 9-10 July, the Aam Aadmi Party said on Wednesday, accusing the state's BJP government of forcing a Surat university to cancel the booking of a hall where he was to attend an event. The Aam Aadmi Party said this forced Kejriwal to axe his two-day visit to Gujarat during which he was also scheduled to tour Somnath in Saurashtra region. AAP leader and Delhi MLA Gulab Yadav and state party president Kanu Kalsaria said the Gujarat Chief Minister's Office directed the Veer Narmad South Gujarat University in Surat to cancel a hall booked by the AAP. Alleging "this is nothing but political vendetta", Yadav told the media that Kejriwal was to be the chief guest at the 19 July event, which was not an AAP function. The AAP said Kejriwal had been invited by some leading businessmen in Surat to attend a function of traders from across the state. "It also shows how much they fear Arvind Kejriwal," Gulab Yadav said. He added this was "cheap political tactics" and it would not deter Kejriwal from visiting Gujarat any time during the next two months. Confirming the development, Surat Vividh Vepari Mahamandal (Federation of Various Trader Bodies) President Jay Lal told IANS: "Yes we had invited Kejriwal to be the chief guest at an all-Gujarat traders meet here on July 10 but now the event has been postponed and not cancelled." Jay Lal said, "We were not adequately prepared for the meet and so we had to put off the function. The university authorities have been intimated in writing about it and asked to refund the deposit for the hall." Asked why there was such a tearing hurry to cancel the booking, as was evident from the way the letter to the university was written, he said, "I know what you are driving at. I will not make any comment on politics. Our event was non-political." Lal said local rules barred goods trucks older than 15 years from entering Delhi because of air pollution. "So I took up the matter with Kejriwal who agreed to meet us and promised to personally come to Gujarat to meet us. He was very cooperative. So we organised the traders meet." Sting from SGU's registrar's office: "Is Kejriwal coming? Then you will not get the hall"#AnandibenScaredOfAK pic.twitter.com/ZKjfs25mhm AAP Gujarat (@AAPGujarat) June 29, 2016 Meanwhile, state BJP president Vijay Rupani ridiculed the AAP's claims that the ruling party had got the programme cancelled. "The fact is they are trying to rustle up something here but soon realized this is Gujarat when they didn't get any support," he said. "This is nothing but a stunt for which AAP and its leader are known for." The Gujarat Assembly elections are scheduled to be held in 2017. The AAP had recently announced that after Goa and Punjab, they would like to contest the Gujarat Assembly Elections. According to a report by The Indian Express, some sources claim that "it was no coincidence" that after the AAP announced its candidacy, an FIR was registered against Kejriwal, over the alleged water tanker scam. In the recent months, in light of the elections, Kejriwal has locked horns with BJP government in the state. Earlier this month he had hit out against the Gujarat government and said that they should "withdraw" the charge of sedition against Hardik Patel adding that he is not guilty of sedition. With inputs from agencies Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday distanced himself from the occupation of a bungalow belonging to the Jammu and Kashmir government in Delhi by his estranged wife Payal. Referring to media reports on the issue, he said in a statement that he had responded to the state Estate officer's eviction notice as far back as 4 June this year informing him that he was not in occupation of the bungalow in question. "This I did, after informing my wife, who I have been separated from for more than five years now and also after having informed her of the alternative arrangements available to them," Omar said in the statement. He was responding to media reports that said that Payal had approached Supreme Court against the eviction notice issued by the Jammu and Kashmir government for vacating 7 Akbar Road, which is the official residence of the state chief minister. Requesting the media to respect his privacy, Omar said that as regards the circumstances that led to the "breakdown of my marriage, that matter is currently sub-judice and awaiting adjudication in court. Therefore, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on this matter." "In the past, the media have acceded to my request to respect the privacy of the persons involved as also avoid any unnecessary speculation around this issue, for which I'm grateful. "This was primarily to protect the interests of my children, who are the real victims of these unfortunate circumstances. Over the years, I have done everything within my means to try and shield them from the fallout of these circumstances and will continue to do so," he said. Omar reiterated his request to the media in the hope that the media will be sensitive to these concerns going forward. "To the extent I am responsible to the people of my state, in discharging my responsibilities and duties for the work that I do, I will continue to remain accountable to them," he added. Panaji: The AAP government's advertising budget is less than the expenditure incurred on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's clothes over the last two years, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Thursday. He claimed that Modi never repeated clothes once worn and that the prime minister's each dress costs Rs 2 lakh. "It is being said we have given advertising of Rs 526 crore. Completely false. We have released advertising worth Rs 76 crore. That's it. Advertising expenditure of all departments of the Delhi government is less than the total expenditure on Modi's clothes," Kejriwal said at a meeting with editors here. "I can give you the calculation. One dress that Modi wears is worth Rs two lakh. He changes clothes five times a day, (which comes to) 10 lakh rupees (per day). He never repeats his clothes, doesn't wash them and reuse them," Kejriwal said, giving a detailed costing of Modi's wardrobe. "Here's the biggest proof. Go to Google, type 'Modi' and in the images column you will never see the same clothes in two separate images. The expense comes to Rs 10 lakh per day. He has been in power for 700 days, that means he has spent Rs 70 crore on clothes alone. Five crore more on his other clothes," said Kejriwal. The Aam Aadmi Party convener also accused a large section of the media of being either "scared or ignorant," citing the "five-hour non-stop broadcast" of the function organised to mark Modi's completion of two years in power as a case in point. "I think media is either scared or ignorant. Not all, most of it. On completion of Modi's two years in power, a five-hour programme from India Gate was telecast non-stop by all media channels. Has this ever happened? So if they are doing that, then they should show the good work we are doing too. They are not doing that," Kejriwal said. "Completely false things about us are being picked up and repeated so many times that people have actually started believing," the Chief Minister said. Kejriwal said the two Delhi state assembly elections were won by the AAP despite a "negative and mischievous" campaign by the media against his party. He said the voters in general saw through the media campaign and ensured that the AAP won. "A section of the media is releasing wrong 'facts' about us. They are trying to defame us. But there is no need to worry, because the same media in Delhi left no stone unturned to defeat us. "The media ran such negative and mischievous campaigns ahead of both the polls. Despite the media campaign, we performed so well. The people are discerning. They know the right and wrong about what is shown by the media," he said. Washington: US President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden will hit the campaign trail to support presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, giving a big boost to her bid to the White House. Obama will make his 2016 campaigning debut for Clinton in North Carolina next week, where they will jointly appear for an election rally. The 5 July Clinton rally in Charlotte, North Carolina would be the first time that Obama would campaign for his former secretary of state since she announced her bid for the White House. Obama endorsed Clinton for president earlier this month. "In Charlotte, President Obama and Hillary Clinton will discuss building on the progress we've made and their vision for an America that is stronger together," the Clinton Campaign said in a statement. Biden, who had been speaking highly of Clinton since Obama endorsed her, said, "I'm proud to endorse Hillary, and I'm grateful you're part of her team -- our whole country is counting on you to make sure she wins this November. President Obama and I are going to be hitting the campaign trail hard to help out as much as we can -- and we hope you'll join us." "After a long, tough fight, we have a presumptive nominee who's going to be a terrific president: my friend, Hillary," Biden said 20 days after Obama endorsed Clinton in a video email message to his supporters. Biden, in an email to his and Clinton supporters, said he has known Clinton for a long time -- from the time she was First Lady and Senator from New York. "She is a force of nature. She's tough, she's brilliant, and she genuinely loves serving this country. Hillary is the kind of person who, at the end of the day, wants to help people and make their lives better. That's who you want as your president," Biden said. In his email at the same time, Biden lashed out at Donald Trump, the presumptive presidential nominee of the Republican party. "Donald Trump's politics of fear and intolerance have no place in America. He won't solve our problems -- he'll make them worse. Because let me tell you denigrating our allies isn't a foreign policy. Telling the world the United States can't be counted on to pay our debts isn't an economic policy. And attacking the ethnicity of a federal judge violates everything we stand for -- and believe -- as Americans," Biden said. "I've always believed this nation succeeds best when we come together as one America. But everything about Donald Trump's campaign is determined to divide and pull us apart. There's no one I trust more than Hillary to lead the fight against Trump, and I'm hoping you'll come through as part of her team again and again," Biden said. Meanwhile, latest poll said Clinton has gained lead over Trump. Releasing its latest opinion poll, Fox News said Clinton is up 44-38 per cent over Trump in a head-to-head matchup. Brussels: The European Union announced on Thursday it had opened a new negotiating chapter with Turkey on its long-stalled bid for membership of the bloc, as part of its migrant deal with Ankara. The decision comes just one week after Britain's bitterly-fought Brexit referendum in which 'Leave' campaigners jumped on the issue to back their claim Turkey would be a massive source of migrants in the future. Muslim-majority Turkey formally launched its membership bid in 2005 and since then the EU has opened 15 chapters out of the 35 required to join the bloc, although it has only completed one. "All EU member states have agreed to open this chapter" on finance and budgetary affairs, said Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders after chairing a meeting with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in Brussels. "We stressed the importance of EU-Turkey relations, the EU and Turkey working together on issues including migration," Koenders said. The decision was part of an EU agreement in March to speed up accession talks in return for Turkey helping to control the massive inflow of migrants, mostly fleeing Syria, which overwhelmed the bloc last year. Koenders told reporters the talks had begun with a minute's silence in memory of the victims of the bomb attacks on Istanbul airport which left more than 40 dead, recalling a similar, Islamic State-claimed atrocity in Brussels in March. Only one chapter has been completed so far due to disagreements over Turkey's human rights record, a cause for concern in many EU states and blocking progress. Koenders stressed the need for Turkey to meet EU rights standards as all candidate countries must do. "As the EU, we also stressed the need for swift reform efforts, especially in areas of the rule of law and fundamental rights," he said. "As a candidate country, naturally (there has to be) respect for the highest standards of democracy and rule of law." Under the March agreement, the EU also agreed to boost aid to Turkey to cope with millions of refugees on its territory and to speed up visa liberalisation but progress here has been very slow. The EU says it cannot grant Turkey visa-free travel if it does not curb the scope of its tough anti-terror laws, something Ankara has refused to do as it battles Kurdish militants. DOHA A fire which broke out at a villa housing expatriate workers in Kuwait on Thursday killed nine Asian residents including children and injured 23, a Fire Service Directorate spokesman said. Six people, at least one of whom was a child, suffocated to death after a blaze tore through a house that had been subdivided into multiple residences in Farwaniya, a suburb 15 km (10 miles) south of Kuwait City, and three others died from injuries in hospital, the spokesman said. He did not give details of the victims' nationalities or identities. He said one firefighter had been seriously injured. Expatriate workers, mostly from India, make up slightly more than two-thirds of Kuwait's 4.3 million population. (Reporting by Tom Finn; editing by Dominic Evans) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Baghdad: Air strikes on Islamic State group fighters fleeing after their defeat in Fallujah have destroyed more than 260 vehicles and killed at least 150 jihadists, Iraqi officers said on Thursday. The strikes began late on Tuesday as hundreds of vehicles carrying weapons and ammunition attempted to leave the jihadists' last positions to the west of the city, the Joint Operations Command said. "Our heroes in the military aviation destroyed more than 200 vehicles," JOC spokesman Yahya Rasool said. He said commandos had also seized large quantities of weapons and ammunition. Rasool said at least 150 IS militants were killed in the strikes, although it was not clear how the dead were counted and identified. He was referring to a first series of strikes on a massive convoy of several hundred vehicles heading south of Fallujah toward the desert, apparently to areas IS still controls near the border with Syria. At least another 60 IS vehicles were destroyed later by air strikes conducted by Iraqi and US-led coalition aircraft on a convoy heading northwest of Fallujah, Anbar Operations Command chief Ismail Mahalawi told AFP. He could not provide an estimate for the number of IS fighters killed in the strikes. Iraqi forces have retaken full control of Fallujah, an emblematic jihadist bastion just 50 kilometres (30 miles) west of Baghdad, after a vast operation that was launched in May. New York: Scientists claim to have developed a new framework which may be able to accurately predict future terrorist attacks by recognising patterns in past strikes. Government agencies are having difficulty tracking potential attacks, since terrorists have developed new ways to communicate besides social media, researchers said. Using data on more than 140,000 terrorist attacks between 1970 and 2014, Salih Tutun and Mohammad Khasawneh from Binghamton University in the US developed a framework that calculates the relationship between select features of terrorist attacks (for example attack time, weapon type). The framework identifies the characteristics of future terrorist attacks by analysing the relationship between past attacks, researchers said. Comparing the results with existing data shows that the proposed method was able to successfully predict most of the characteristics of attacks with more than 90 percent accuracy, they said. These results support the previous findings that terrorists tend to emulate the behaviour of other terrorist groups and learn from their mistakes and successes, researchers said. "They are learning, but they do not know they are learning. If we do not have social media or other technologies, we need to understand the patterns. Our framework works to define which metrics are important," said Tutun. "Based on this feature, we propose a new similarity (interaction) function. Then we use the similarity (interaction) function to understand the difference (how they interact with each other) between two attacks," he said. "For example, what is the relationship between the Paris and the 9/11 attacks? When we look at that, if there is a relationship, we are making a network. Maybe one attack in the past and another attack have a big relationship, but nobody knows," he added. Previous studies have focused on understanding the behaviour of individual terrorists (as people) rather than studying the different attacks by modelling their relationship with each other, researchers said. Terrorist activity detection focuses on either individual incidents, which does not take into account the dynamic interactions among them; or network analysis, which gives a general idea about networks but sets aside functional roles of individuals and their interactions, they said. "Predicting terrorist events is a dream, but protecting some area by using patterns is a reality. If you know the patterns, you can reduce the risks. It is not about predicting, it is about understanding," said Tutun. He believes that policymakers can use these approaches for time-sensitive understanding and detection of terrorist activity, which can enable precautions to avoid against future attacks. Monrovia: As Liberia's security forces take over Thursday from UN peacekeepers for the first time since civil war ended 13 years ago, national pride is mixed with fears the underfunded police are not up to the task. Government forces and rebel groups raped, massacred and maimed hundreds of thousands of people during two conflicts between 1989 and 2003, and the highly politicised police and army were disbanded after committing some of the worse abuses. Since then UN peacekeepers have largely ensured the country's security, though their numbers have dwindled from 15,000 in the aftermath of war to just under 4,000 today, as the nation's re-trained forces were assimilated. From this week the peacekeepers will have a small supporting role only. "Everything I know about policing, I learned from UNMIL," said Dao R Freeman, Liberia's national deputy police commissioner, using the mission's UN acronym. Freeman, a product of training that has attempted to instil an anti-corruption ethos and respect for human rights, believes the country has "quality not quantity" when it comes to keeping order on the streets. "If we continue to build that capacity and also provide the resources that are needed, I believe that we can take responsibility of our country's security," he told AFP. But citizens are far from convinced, scarred by the memory of forces loyal to former president Charles Taylor who razed whole villages and hunted down those who fled into the bush. On the eve of UNMIL's drawdown, the implications have set the country on edge, with radio and television talk shows buzzing with talk of little else. "I would prefer UNMIL to stay forever," John Gweh, a 56-year-old farmer, told AFP at his rubber plantation, flicking through a newspaper whose front page was dominated by the same story. Aware of the high costs of the UN mission, Gweh said he was thankful for the international community's long intervention, but added he was still wary of the Liberian National Police (LNP) despite years of reform. "My greatest fear is how trustworthy our security forces are. Will they go back to the same old thing we were used to, treating civilians like animals? I am worried," Gweh added. No cars, no uniforms Liberia's police force is chronically underfunded, like many state services, with basic equipment in short supply, salaries paltry and the number of armed officers in the low hundreds of a 5,170-strong corps. "We need cars, we need communications and we need other items like uniforms," said Freeman. UNMIL has a $344-million (311-million euro) annual budget, while the government's draft national security budget for 2016/2017 is only about $90 million, pending approval from the legislature. This will likely worsen a situation in which three-quarters of Liberians reported paying a bribe to police in the last year, according to the most recent survey conducted by anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International. "When we say we are worried that UNMIL is leaving, people say they have trained our security (forces)," market seller Catherine Gayflor said at her stall in a market, in a suburb north of the Liberian capital. "But even with the presence of UNMIL we see how our police can be beating on us," she added, referring to officers' arbitrary confiscation of goods from vendors, an abuse long-documented by rights groups. The ratio of police to citizens will be around 1:1000, in a country with dire transport links and regions that remain under the influence of former warlords. "Yes there are challenges," Information Minister Eugene Nagbe told AFP, downplaying concerns as "gaps that we still need to fill". Nagbe underlined that the military and police had worked alongside UNMIL for years, arguing that the core of the country's security was assured. "The national apparatus is ready to assume this great responsibility," he said decisively. "What we continue to do is to strengthen our apparatus in the areas of logistics, the areas of training, in the areas of compensation to the security forces." Terrorism, election pose challenges Liberians, like many west Africans, are increasingly concerned about the threat of terrorism in the region, although no groups have made particular threats against Africa's first democracy. Neighbouring Ivory Coast was hit by its first-ever jihadist attack in March, when Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb militants killed 19 people in Grand-Bassam, a beach resort town. Minister Nagbe said the appointment of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to the head of regional grouping ECOWAS had "put national security and regional security at the top of her agenda," and the issue will hover in the background of the handover. However, experts say the greatest challenges remain domestic, with some perceptions of the police unchanged since the war ended. In an interview with AFP, Saah R Gbollie, an associate professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Liberia, said favouritism based on political affiliation still dogs the force. "The security sector has got to be depoliticised if we should move forward and be able achieve security sector reform," said Gbollie. "We should be sure that there is an independent complaints commission," along with an arbitration body for appointments, added the former top cop and ex-head of the Liberian parliament's security commission. This will be especially important ahead of next year's presidential election, he said, when the broadly unifying figure of Sirleaf will be absent. WASHINGTON U.S. sailors who blundered into Iranian waters in January divulged sensitive information to their captors while held at gunpoint by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a U.S. Navy report said on Thursday. It said some of the 10 crew members gave away capabilities of their vessels, one of them disclosing his vessel's potential speed and suggesting it was on a "presence" mission to demonstrate U.S. military power in the Gulf. The incident, which embarrassed the United States, rattled nerves days before implementation of a U.S.-nuclear accord between Iran and world powers negotiated by the administration of U.S. President Barack Obama. "It is clear that some, if not all, crew members provided at least some information to interrogators beyond name, rank, service number and date of birth," the report said. The report redacted names, but the Navy last week identified the commander of the boats' task force as Captain Kyle Moses and said he had been relieved of his command. In May, the Navy fired Eric Rasch, commander of the squadron that included the sailors. The report said two people had faced administrative action and it recommended action on six others. The Navy report blamed the incident on poor planning, leaders who did not properly consider risks, and complacency, a lack of oversight and low morale. The sailors were traveling in two vessels to Bahrain from Kuwait. At a Thursday news conference, Navy officials acknowledged that the crew and commanders had made serious mistakes. "Our actions on that day in January and this incident did not live up to our expectations of our Navy," Chief of Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson said. "Big incidents like this are always the result of the accumulation of a number of small problems." PROBLEMS Problems had plagued the mission from the beginning. The task force commander ordered the 250-nautical-mile transit, the longest the crews had attempted, on short notice, and "severely underestimated" the transit's risks. "He lacked a questioning attitude, failed to promote a culture of safety, and disregarded appropriate backup from his staff and subordinate commands," the report said. The boats' captains and crew did not review or follow their planned course from the moment they left port, the report said, and inadvertently went through Saudi Arabian territorial waters before entering Iranian waters off the coast of Iran's Farsi Island in the Gulf. At one point, the crew members did not realize they were near Farsi Island because none of them zoomed into their navigation system's map. TAKEN AT GUNPOINT Near the island, one of the boats had a faulty engine, and the two craft were approached by two IRGC boats, which pointed their weapons. They were soon joined by two other IRGC boats. The boat captains did not direct their gunners to put on protective gear or man their weapons. Under the standard rules of engagement, U.S. military personnel are obligated to defend their units. However, in the hopes of de-escalating the situation, the captains directed their gunners to step away from their weapons. "I didn't want to start a war with Iran," one of the boat captains told investigators. "My thought at the end of the day was that no one had to die for a misunderstanding." The Iranians forced the sailors to remove their body armor, kneel, and place their hands behind their heads, and took video and pictures of the crew doing so. At Farsi Island, they interrogated and detained the sailors overnight before releasing them the next day. FILMED ACTING HAPPY The sailors acquiesced to Iranian demands that they eat and act happy while being filmed in order to be released, and one captain read an apology prepared by the Iranians. Unbeknownst to them, the U.S. government already had negotiated their unconditional release. The report faulted the IRGC for violating international norms. The Iranians replaced an American flag on board with an IRGC one, ransacked the vessels, and damaged equipment, the report said.Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei awarded medals to IRGC commanders, and Iranian media broadcast videos of the detainees. The Navy investigation confirms what has been obvious from the beginning: that Irans obstruction, boarding, and seizure of sovereign U.S. Navy vessels at gunpoint and the detention, interrogation, and recording of 10 American sailors were flagrant violations of international law," said U.S. Senator John McCain, a former naval aviator, in response to the report. (Editing by Bernadette Baum and Howard Goller) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. New Delhi:World Bank President Jim Yong Kim on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and noted he was "impressed" by the progress made by India towards ambitious programmes like Smart Cities, Power for all and Swachh Bharat, an official statement said. "Kim said he was impressed by the progress made towards the ambitious targets in these programmes (Smart Cities, Ganga Rejuvenation, Skill Development, Swachh Bharat and Power for All)," the prime minister's office said in a statement. The World Bank chief also appreciated Indias rapid progress in improving the ease of doing business, especially in the area of logistics, the statement said. Kim assured of the World Bank's proactive support towards the agenda of climate change financing to countries like India, which are consciously choosing to follow an environmentally sustainable path. "During the meeting, the Prime Minister expressed happiness at the World Bank's continued support to India, especially in priority areas," it said. Modi and Kim discussed a broad range of issues and possible avenues of cooperation, it added. The World Bank President is on a visit to India to review the progress of priority areas for the multilateral lending agency. "The trip is to explore how the World Bank could provide knowledge and financing to India's reforms development agenda," Kim said. India is the largest client of the World Bank Group with the multilateral institution lending around $5.3 billion between 2015-2016. On 19 November, 1863, at the height of American Civil War, US President Abraham Lincoln delivered one of the most influential statements of national purpose at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The Gettysburg Address, as it later came to be known, was also one of the greatest treatises on representative democracy. In just over two minutes, Lincoln laid down the principles of participatory democracy in an oration that would later emerge as one of the most important speeches in history. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. began his I Have a Dream speech by alluding to the Gettysburg Address. The first and the last sentences of the speech carry two timeless, simple truths. The first is that "all men are created equal". The second lies in Lincoln's assertion that "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." Why evoke Lincoln today? Because now more than ever, a century and a half after the words were spoken, a turn in global events has triggered a blitzkrieg of liberal backlash against participatory democracy. Though a confluence of factors lie behind this elitist disdain for people's power, the immediate triggers are the Brexit referendum in which British citizens narrowly voted to exit the European Union and the rise of Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican US presidential nominee. Because democracy as a form of governance did not deliver the results they were pitching for, the liberals, the elites and the liberal elites in the west are feeling betrayed and have started a shrill campaign against democracy. Their supremely arrogant, discriminatory and delusional stand stems from an overarching fear that elite hegemony over power is under threat. And because the power elites everywhere control the dominant media narrative, in a spectacular perversion of ideals the liberals are presenting their illiberal idea of putting an end to participatory democracy by shouting from the rooftop that democracy needs to be saved from itself. This is a remarkable subversion of democratic ideals. Consider how this is being suggested. Harvard economics professor and chess grandmaster Kenneth Rogoff, in his piece for Boston Globe titled 'Britain's democratic failure', argues that Brexit referendum "isn't democracy; it is Russian roulette for republics. A decision of enormous consequence has been made without any appropriate checks and balances." He then suggests UKs population probably didn't even know what they were voting on and rounds it off with a warning about perils of "allowing the rabble to make decisions." In Foreign Policy, a US publication that calls itself a magazine of global politics, economics and ideas, contributing editor James Traub suggests that "Brexit has laid bare the political schism of our time. Its not about the left vs the right; its about the sane vs the mindlessly angry", in an aptly titled article called 'Its Time for the Elites to Rise Up Against the Ignorant Masses'. He calls 'Leave' and Trump voters "deluded", "ignorant" and espouses a theory that "the task of leadership is to un-delude them", admitting in disarming honesty that his view is an elitist one. Newsweek carries an opinion piece by Neil H. Buchanan, an economist, legal scholar and a professor of law at George Washington University. The writer in an article titled 'Brexit: is this the beginning of the end of liberal democracy?', calls the referendum "a wake-up call to those who have allowed themselves to believe that the emergence of fear-mongering, naked lies and appeals to people's worst nature are merely an unfortunate spasm of temporary insanity." Britain's Guardian newspaper (not surprisingly) takes the lead in suggesting that democracy is in danger because voting is outdated and it is time we replace it with a draft of lots. Not making this up. "Referendums and elections are both arcane instruments of public deliberation If we refuse to update our democratic technology, we may find the system is beyond repair," says David Van Reybrouck in 'Why elections are bad for democracy'. The writer says western democracies have taken a dangerous route in "reducing democracy to voting" and claims that "Democracy is not the problem. Voting is the problem. Where is the reasoned voice of the people in all this? Where do citizens get the chance to obtain the best possible information, engage with each other and decide collectively upon their future? Where do citizens get a chance to shape the fate of their communities? Not in the voting booth, for sure." Instead of "blind faith in the ballot box", the writer suggests "drafting of lots, or 'sortition' method and says that if this procedure had been applied in the UK last week, "a similarly reckless decision" could have been avoided. So the motive is clear. Because the voters have delivered a decision which is unpalatable, why not queer the pitch and suggest that all voters are mindless fools who need to be saved from themselves and who better than us liberal elites, we who know much better than the common ignoramuses, to do so? Sounds like an exaggeration? This is precisely the argument British blogger Andrew Sullivan put forward in his 8,000-word op-ed against Donald Trump, "Democracies end when they are too democratic." Democracies, argued Sullivan, often drift into passionate excesses, and super smart people must come to their rescue. "Elites matter in a democracy..", because they are "the critical ingredient to save democracy from itself." The liberal position is an open challenge to the century-old struggle that the world has emerged from in recognising people's power. It is quite often that the words 'freedom' and 'democracy' are interchanged. But there is a difference between the two. Democracy presents the architecture for freedom. Through a set of ideas, principles, set of practices and procedures that have been moulded through a long, arduous history, it institutionalises freedom. Voting is a precious right. If Brexit and Trump and the rise of far right in Europe present a challenge, it will take much more agile thinking than merely putting forth cosmetic, superfluous and reckless arguments. But fear not, dear readers. Let us have a government for the elites, by the elites, and of the elites which shall not perish from the earth. We have come a long way since the Gettysburg Address. digital and print publisher. digital and print publisher. We are Americas largest We are Americas largest The brands you love. The experiences you want. We know some visitors come to the website because a domain name leads them to here. If you are interested in buying What: Shares of Hewlett-Packard Enterprise (HPE 0.94%) rose 14.3% in the first half of 2016, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. By comparison, the consumer-oriented corporate sibling HP Inc. (HPQ -0.36%) and the S&P 500 market barometer both gained just 0.6% across the same period. What gives? So what: For the most part, Hewlett-Packard Enterprise has been tracking alongside the broader markets and its co-managed cousin. Two events made all the difference. First, the stock rose 13.5% in a single day on the strength of a great first-quarter report. Hewlett-Packard beat analyst estimates across the board, and CEO Meg Whitman explained that the company has more freedom to focus on its strengths under the new structure. In mid-June, a bearish analyst added the finishing touch to Hewlett-Packard Enterprise's strong first half of 2016. Brean Capital analyst Ananda Baruah stuck to his modest hold rating on the stock, but noted that "there really could be something brewing here." In particular, Baruah likes how Hewlett-Packard Enterprise has drawn up a solid multiyear plan that accounts for a quickly changing enterprise computing industry. HP hasn't shown that level of progressive focus in recent years, so maybe this split was exactly what the doctor ordered. Now what: I'll agree that Hewlett-Packard Enterprise is off to a solid start. Next up, the trick is to keep that tight focus on high-quality growth. If that sounds like an easy task, let me remind you that Whitman still serves as chairman of HP Inc. In my view, both companies would be much better off if that top-level connection between them could be completely severed. As it stands, Whitman is still juggling the two halves of old HP in an unhealthy way. It hasn't happened yet, but I'm waiting for one of the companies to fall short of expectations and then point fingers at the other business to explain the miss. Whitman should simply let go of the HP Inc. side to focus exclusively on Hewlett-Packard Enterprise. Until that happens (which most likely will be never), I'll stay on the sidelines of both ex-HP stocks. We are now halfway through 2016, which has been a tough year for ConocoPhillips (COP 2.12%). While the company has battled back from a brutal start to the year, its stock price is still down for the year: However, while the first half was pretty rough, the company has made progress on several fronts. That has it set up to have a much better second half as long as oil prices cooperate. What went wrong Collapsing crude oil prices to start the year weighed heavily on ConocoPhillips. With oil only averaging $34 a barrel during the first quarter, ConocoPhillips had to make some tough decisions to put the company in a better position to withstand weak prices. These moves included slashing the dividend by 66% as well as cutting CapEx to the point where it could no longer grow production. The decision to significantly reduce the payout did not sit well with shareholders after the company spent all of 2015 saying the payout was "safe" and the "top priority." However, the move did lower the company's cash flow break-even point and increased its flexibility going forward. In addition to the tough-to-swallow dividend news, investors had to deal with a barrage of bad news involving the company's operations. For example, one of its key growth projects in Canada, the Surmont oil sands facility, had to be shut down for over a month because of the wildfires in Canada. Meanwhile, one of its pipelines in Canada sprung a leak, causing at least 2,400 barrels of oil to spill, and its Melmar exploration well in the Gulf of Mexico turned out to be nothing but a dry hole. On top of all this, the company once again topped the list as the worst methane emitter in the oil and gas sector. What went right That said, the first half was not all bad news for the company. ConocoPhillips started the year off by exporting the first cargo from its Australia Pacific LNG project, which had been under construction since 2011. Through the first quarter, it had loaded 11 cargos from the first train of that facility and remains on pace to load the first cargo from the second train by the end of the year. Meanwhile, it made progress ramping production at two of its drilling projects in Alaska. Further, it continues to progress toward the first production of the next two expansion phases at its Canadian oil sands joint venture with Cenovus Energy (CVE 2.41%) as well as its Alder project in Europe. Thanks in part to the progress on its major projects, ConocoPhillips' production averaged 1.578 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/d) during the first quarter, which was at the top end of its guidance range of 1.54 to 1.58 million BOE/d. In addition to that, costs are falling. The company's operating expenses during the first quarter were down by 20% year over year. One of the highlights was the company's Foster Creek oil sands facility. According to joint venture partner Cenovus Energy, Foster Creek's operating costs last quarter were 17% lower than the year-ago quarter. One of the drivers was a much stronger steam-to-oil ratio, which averaged 3.0 times during the quarter. The ratio is up from 2.4 times last year, and well ahead of the 1.9 times of Christina Lake, which is the other asset ConocoPhillips and Cenovus Energy operate together in the region. Finally, ConocoPhillips was able to pull additional money out of its CapEx budget without impacting production due in part to its ability to capture cost deflation. This reduction pushes its cash flow break-even point even lower and bolsters its financial flexibility going forward. Investor takeaway There is no doubt ConocoPhillips got off to a rough start in 2016. However, the company is making a lot of progress to finish up most of its major projects, which will give it tremendous flexibility going forward. Further, with oil prices improving, the company is set up to potentially generate a substantial amount of free cash flow over the next six months. The Brexit's effect on big oil companies came hard and fast, with Total S.A. (TTE 1.88%) sinking nearly 9% in value the day after. However, it's difficult to know what the long-term effects will be. Everything from oil price fluctuations to the potential for new U.K. oil regulations could affect oil producers in the long term. While it's prudent to pay attention to the fallout, it's also wise to remember that oil producers will continue day-to-day operations, both in terms of current production and in activity to drive future growth. For example, while the Brexit was the primary reason for Total's 9% drop, the company's current investments and strategic planning will probably drive its long-term valuation and production levels. For this reason, let's look at Total's expansion efforts in East Africa. Total is experiencing a number of obstacles as it expands into an unproven and undeveloped terrain. Will these obstacles disrupt and prevent its expansion efforts? Acquiring assets in Africa Total isn't new to the African upstream market. In the first quarter, the company produced an average of 630,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/D) in the continent, accounting for over 25% of its worldwide production. Ultimately, Total is putting in the early legwork to reap the benefits of a potential oil boom in East Africa. In Uganda alone, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates 2.5 billion barrels of untapped oil reserves, and 1.2 billion to 1.7 billion barrels are expected to be recoverable, as Uganda hopes production is up and running by 2018. Total has a 33% interest in four blocks of Uganda's Lake Albert region, where development efforts are under way. If Total continues to develop its East African efforts, it should see a significant boost in production in the 2018 to 2019 timeframe, assuming Uganda can help foster those efforts. But that's a big assumption. Pipeline issues in Africa Uganda and Tanzania are planning to build a $4 billion, 900-mile oil pipeline that connects Uganda's landlocked oil to the Tanzanian coast. Construction of the pipeline, though, will probably not begin this August as planned, as there is no official development plan. The pipeline -- which Total, along with the U.K.-based Tullow Oil and Chinese state-owned oil company CNOOC, is expected to invest in -- will have the capacity to move an estimated 200,000 barrels per day. The goal to open the pipeline by 2020 remains in place, although that plan puts the first Ugandan oil exports a full two years behind the 2018 timeline the Bank of Uganda has called for. And again, that's assuming work on the pipeline is even completed on time. And that's not the only pipeline in Africa hindering Total's operations. The Nigerian Trans Niger Pipeline, of which Total is a partner in, was recently shut down because of an oil leak. The pipeline, operated by Royal Dutch Shell (RDS.A) (RDS.B), transports around 130,000 barrels of oil per day and is critical to for the companies to transport the oil for export. The pipeline issues highlight real impediments to African oil production. Regardless of its efforts to develop new oil fields, Total has to figure out a secure and reliable method to move the crude oil to the coast for transportation. With an exploration and production presence in over 50 countries and an expected increase from the 2.3 million BOE/D it produced worldwide in 2015 to 2.8 million BOE/D in 2017, Total has many irons in the fire. But tapping into the East African production market could push those numbers even higher by 2020. Africa -- whether from delayed timelines, faulty infrastructure, or the persistent threat of attacks from militant groups -- will remain challenging to that endeavor. Foolish bottom line The Brexit happened, and we have to accept it. While you should continue to pay attention to the fallout, though, you should also stay focused on company activities. With its current production of 630,000 BOE/D, Total has already proved it can operate within the difficult confines of Africa's challenging midstream infrastructure. Since it's too far away to seriously comment on the likelihood of the Uganda-Tanzania pipeline completion, though, today you should just take comfort that Total is making a savvy play for future production in the enormous East African oil reserves. An airport in Instanbul, Turkey was unexpectedly attacked Tuesday night by three suicide bombers. The attack resulted in forty-two deaths and two hundred and thirty-nine people injured. Many suspect the terrorist group ISIS was behind the deadly attack. The U.S. and other countries have had their direct and indirect dealings with ISIS which have included a shooting in California earlier this year, attacks in Paris and a bombing in Brussels. You do not defeat terrorism with a conventional army. Terrorism is about an ideawe can kill all of the leadership but their idea is still to dominate the Middle East, consume all the Muslim countries and dominate the world with their ideology, Katrina Joint Task Force Commander Russel Honore said to the FOX Business Networks Charles Payne. Honore said the U.S. should not stoop to ISISs level and that killing ISIS members wont solve the problem. "Democracy always defeats terrorism throughout history, but it might take a couple of decades to do it. We cannot turn into or act like the terrorists, killing them alone wont solve the problem," he said. During a speech on Tuesday, presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump said he believes the U.S. needs to fight fire with fire, when referring to ISIS tactics. Trump said he also believes that the U.S. should start using waterboarding as an interrogation tactic. Honore disagreed with some of Trumps proposed tactics, though. "Those are some off the cuff comments. I hope that Donald Trump would rethink that and take better advice from his counsel thats around him, Honore said. He also said that Turkey has a tough and well trained army that knows what theyre doing. "Its going to take us a couple of decades, it could takes us three decades but I think the Turks have got it right. Theyve opened their airport, theyve got security there, they will adapt and overcome, he said. With fears rising ahead of the busy Fourth of July weekend, former Secretary of Defense William Cohen joined the FOX Business Networks Connell McShane to discuss the threat of terrorism. Theres no place to hide. The fact that the focus is now on airports doesnt mean that you can go to any other place and feel reasonably safe. The next attack might come at a mall. It might come at a popular restaurant or a [disco] or any other place where people gather, he said. The former Secretary of Defense said even though measures can be taken to extend the perimeters of security in planes and airports, terrorists will always find a soft target to create chaos. We have to be concerned about [terrorists]. We have to double and make sure we intensify our intelligence and look at those who are traveling who might be suspicious because of their past travels. But frankly, theres really no safe place that one can be today and rest assure that nothing will happen, he said. The latest poll conducted by Fox News revealed that Americans are less confident in the governments ability to thwart terrorist attacks. Cohen said the results could be due to discontent with life, job losses and integration since the terror attacks of 9/11. You now have a situation in which we live in a free and open society and in a free and open society you allow people to move and to speak and to acquire things like guns and the country is awash with high-powered weapons and you have people who have access to them without much restriction and therefore those who are inspired to commit heinous crimes are given the capability of doing so, he said. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan on Thursday announced that next week Congress will take up whether people on the no fly list should be allowed to purchase a weapon. Cohen says this action is absolutely necessary. Why would you be on a watch list [and] not be able to go on a plane and yet be [able] to go into a gun store or a Walmart (NYSE:WMT), wherever and acquire a semi-automatic weapon? he said. He also disagrees with Attorney General Loretta Lynchs approach to defeat terrorism through love. As far as the terrorists are concerned we have to go out and kill them. To the extent that we have to wage another form of war that is at the social media level, we have to try to educate people about the lies they are being told, he said. After nearly two years of construction, the $300 million, Google-backed trans-Pacific "Faster" cable system is now live. First announced in 2014, the 9,000km trans-Pacific cable links Japan and the West Coast of the US, delivering 60 terabits per second of bandwidth, which is about 10 million times faster than the average cable modem. "From the very beginning of the project, we repeatedly said to each other, 'faster, faster and faster,' and at one point it became the project name, and today it becomes a reality," Hiromitsu Todokoro, chairman of the Faster management committee, said in a statement. Faster stretches from Oregon to two landing points in Japan, located in the Chiba and Mie prefectures. The system also has extended connections to major West Coast US hubs, including Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Portland, and Seattle. The two landing points in Japan allow for easy access to major cities there, as well as many neighboring cable systems extending to other Asian locations. Google teamed up on the effort with five Asian firms China Mobile International, China Telecom Global, Global Transit, KDDI, and SingTel and Japanese IT and networking giant NEC Corporation served as the system supplier, actually building it out. "Although we faced many challenges during the construction, I am truly glad that we were able to overcome these and to welcome this day," Kenichi Yoneyama, Project Manager for Faster at NEC's submarine network division, said in a statement. "This epoch-making cable will not only bring benefits to the United States and Japan, but to the entire Asia-Pacific region." In other connectivity news, Google on Thursday announced it has purchased additional 236 megawatts (MW) of energy from two new wind farms in Norway and Sweden. That comes after the Web giant at the end of last year purchased 842 MW of renewable energy to power its operations. Google said it's goal is to one day run 100 percent of its operations on clean energy. This article originally appeared on PCMag.com. Mark your calendars and sound the alarms, bargain hunters: Amazon just announced that it will hold its second annual Prime Day on Tuesday, July 12. The online retail giant says this will be "the biggest Amazon event ever" with more than 100,000 deals, exclusively for Prime members. The event starts at midnight PT, with new deals added as often as every five minutes in the US. To participate, you'll need to be a Prime member or sign up for Amazon's service before July 12. What type of deals can you expect to find? Amazon hasn't revealed any specifics, but says it'll discount items across "nearly all departments and categories." If you're in the market for a new TV, you might want to forego the inevitable Fourth of July sales you'll see in stores this weekend, because Amazon has promised to have nearly two times as many sets in stock compared to Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined in the US. Prime members in the US can also look forward to deal on toys throughout the day. Prime Day deals will be available in the US, UK, Spain, Japan, Italy, Germany, France, Canada, Belgium, and Austria. Leading up to Prime Day, Amazon plans to offer "countdown deals" every day from July 5 through July 11, including a 32-inch TV bundle with a Fire TV Stick for $119.99. If you plan to shop this Prime Day, check out this site Amazon put together with advice and tips for snagging deals. Last year, Amazon kicked off Prime Day with discounts on its Kindle lineup, Echo speaker, various electronics, and other random non-tech items. But the company's stock of sale items quickly sold out and wait lists filled up immediately, leaving people with few options. Users, of course, took to Twitter to vent about lackluster options and crack jokes about the event. Still, Amazon says its inaugural Prime Day was the company's biggest international sales day up to that point. "Following last year's record sales, we have dramatically increased the inventory behind many deals," Amazon Prime Vice President Greg Greeley said in a statement. "Even with this massive selection we know many of the Prime Day offers will sell out, so members should download the Amazon shopping app to receive notifications on their favorite deals." This article originally appeared on PCMag.com. Today could be Marissa Mayers last stand as CEO of Yahoo (NASDAQ:YHOO) as she takes the hot seat at the companys annual meeting in Santa Clara, California. Activist shareholder Starboard Value's CEO Jeff Smith has been a thorn in Mayers side and reports suggest he wants her kicked to the curb. Smith and three other handpicked candidates are all up for election to the Yahoo board at todays meeting. "Investors seem to be giving Yahoo a long leash; despite Yahoo delivering below average returns for above average risk, notes Michael McDaniel, chief investment officer at portfolio and risk analysis firm Riskalyze. Those risks during Mayers nearly four-year long run as CEO have included rising expenses in the face of slowing revenue and profits. Not to mention a series of acquisitions, including Tumblr, which cost over $1 billion and has failed to live up to expectations. Under Mayers direction, the company has been in perpetual turnaround mode. Still her former employer, Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL), surpassed it in search and web ad-revenue. And the stock price, once $125 per share, has tumbled to the $37 level. They seem like the AOL of the early '00s, and have failed to regain much traction, quipped noted computer scientist and former MIT professor Michael Hawley in an interview. Hawleys critique continued, Their attempts to build up a journalistic enterprise didn't have staying power. They kept buying mediocre companies left and right, and nothing came of it. Strategic Alternatives a For Sale Sign? Since February, a Yahoo committee has been looking into strategic alternatives, widely believed to be a sale of Yahoos core assets. Some observers believe there may be value in the web portal and search businesses yet. After all, the Yahoo sites are the third most visited in the U.S. according to ComScore, trailing only Google and Facebook (NASDAQ:FB). Similarly when you look at mobile, Yahoo sites are the third most visited properties for mobile web and app users. Additionally, thousands of patents and real estate in and around the Sunnyvale headquarters have some analysts and investors believing theres value to be unlocked. Maybe with Yahoo as part of a large, diversified company, a profitable and even growing operation is possible, says Tim Ghriskey, chief investment officer for Solaris Asset Management. If another company can acquire the assets at a reasonable price, the risk should be minimal. Yahoos market cap is about $35 billion and some observers say thats a fire sale given its holdings in Chinas Alibaba (NYSE:BABA) and Yahoo Japan are valued at a combined $37.4 billion and theres still $6 billion of cash on hand. Parts Worth More Than The Whole? Source: FactSet Data, SEC Filings Piper Jaffray (NYSE:PJC) analyst Gene Munster told FOXBusiness.com: We think core Yahoo is worth about $8 billion, and overall we think Yahoo is worth about $39 billion or about $40 per share. Verizons (NYSE:VZ) name has appeared most frequently in the press as attached to a potential auction. AT&T (NYSE:T) and private equity firms including TPG (NYSE:TSLX) have been named as other suitors in recent media reports. The reported bids range from $3 billion to more than $5 billion. That of course pales in comparison to the $48 billion offer by Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) in 2008, which Yahoos former management spurned as too low. While Mayer has managed to hang on as CEO, her legacy is already marred by poor performance and potentially a sale that could possibly jip shareholders. I'd guess that Mayer's tenure will be measured in months if not weeks at this point, asserts Hawley. FOX Business Network will have continued live broadcast coverage from Yahoos annual shareholders meeting. When it comes to electric-car maker Tesla Motors' vehicle deliveries this quarter, Model X represents the biggest unknown. Launched at the end of last year, production is still ramping up, making guessing deliveries a difficult talk. Scheduled to report second-quarter deliveries anytime between July 1 and July 3, investors will soon get a glimpse of how Tesla's Model X production ramp is fairing. Model X. Image source: Tesla Motors. While it's difficult to make a good estimate of how many Model X deliveries Tesla could have delivered during Q2, one thing is nearly certain: Deliveries will likely be meaningfully higher than they were in Q1. Addressing production constraints In Q1, Tesla's Model X deliveries soared from about 200 units in Q4 to 2,400 units. Similarly, Model X production jumped from 507 to 2,659 units during the same period. But despite the large relative increase in Model X production and deliveries between Q4 and Q1, Tesla was behind schedule during Q1. Indeed, Model X production issues meant Tesla missed its guidance for 16,000 total Model S and Model X deliveries by over 1,000 units. "The Q1 delivery count was impacted by severe Model X supplier parts shortages in January and February that lasted much longer than initially expected," Tesla said in its April 4 press release detailing first-quarter vehicle deliveries. Tesla delivered 14,820 vehicles during the quarter. Following Tesla's worse-than-expected first quarter, investors expect Tesla to demonstrate improved Model X production in Q2. Fortunately, management indicated that it looks like this is exactly what will happen during. Model X could help Tesla crush its own guidance In the same press release explaining Tesla's Model X production issues during Q1, Tesla gave investors an important update on how Model X production was faring as the company went into Q2: "Once these issues were resolved, production and delivery rates improved dramatically. By the last full week of March, the build rate rose to 750 Model X vehicles per week; however, many of these vehicles were built too late to be delivered to their owners before end of quarter." Looking toward the end of Q2, Tesla is particularly bullish about the trajectory of Model X production. "I feel confident that we're going to hit the 2,000-vehicles-a-week target by the end of this quarter, of which on the order of 40% are X," Tesla CEO Elon Musk said during the company's first-quarter earnings call. Model X production at Tesla's factory in Fremont, California. Image source: Tesla Motors. With these previews and estimates for second-quarter production in mind, Tesla will probably report a large jump in Model X production and deliveries in Q2 compared with Q1. And if any investors are worried about demand for the Model X during the quarter, this shouldn't be a problem. First, Tesla entered the year with around 35,000 deposit-backed reservations for the SUV yet it's delivered less than 3,000 of them. Second, in conjunction with rising production of the Model X, Tesla also began to pull some levers for demand generation in April, opening up the online Model X configurator in North America to non-reservation holders, and shipping the Model X to many of its U.S.-based stores. It's difficult to estimate how many Model X units Tesla may have delivered during Q2, but based on what Tesla has said about the trajectory of Model X production, it seems conservative to estimate Tesla delivered 4,000 or more during the quarter -- a level that would probably help Tesla easily beat its own guidance for 17,000 Model S and Model X deliveries combined during the quarter. The article Tesla Motors, Inc.'s Model X Deliveries Are Likely to Jump originally appeared on Fool.com. Daniel Sparks owns shares of Tesla Motors. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Tesla Motors. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. It's a difficult task to pick a stock that can be held for an entire century. It's hard enough picking a stock to hold for a few decades, but far more sobering to realize that few enterprises last anywhere near 100 years. On the other hand, there are a few companies on the Big Board today that had their beginnings over 100 years ago, making their shareholders billions upon billions in profits along the way. But what product, what business model, what company can we reliably say is a good bet to thrive well into the 2100s?I believe I have the answer. But first, we need to take a trip back in time: five thousand years into the past. Recently, archaeologists unearthed a 5,000-year-old beer recipe in China. This find, announced in May, certainly gives credence to the idea that one of the first things civilizations make, alongside rules and canals, is beer. Indeed, the find has led archaeologists to posit that barley was used for beer brewing before it was used as a food source -- that is, it helped build civilization. Clearly there's something to this brewing thing, and I'm betting this 5,000-year-old trend is going to continue well into the next century. Image Source: Getty. Thanks to mankind's love of a cold one on a hot day, and some savvy market choices recently made by an acquisitive management team, my pick for a century-long holding -- nay, the perfect company to hold for my great-great-grandchildren's benefit -- is none other than Anheuser-Busch InBev SA. Here's why. Positioning for a century of growth Last year, AB InBev made a bold move by offering to purchase the world's No. 2 brewer SABMiller. It all began in September 2016, when rumors began swirling of a potential deal. After weeks of haggling, it was formally announced on Oct. 12 that the two parties had come to terms, in what would be a $107 billion deal for AB InBev to acquire SABMiller. The merger, which combines parts of the world's No. 1 and No. 2 brewers, will create a Goliath with some 28.4% of the global beer market. The new AB InBev will have a major presence not only in the developed world but also in the developing world -- and that's why it is just the stock to own until 2116. It's difficult for Americans to appreciate just how dominant AB InBev will be overseas once this merger is consummated. Stateside, AB InBev owns brands such as Budweiser, Bud Light, Stella Artois, and Corona. While these brands are obviously available everywhere, they are not monopolistic; consumers can just as readily find a six-pack of Coors or Miller High Life. In addition, in recent decades, Americans have benefited from a robust and fast-growing craft-brew industry, with Boston Beer Co. as its standard-bearer. The situation overseas, however, is drastically different. To paint the picture, I took the 30 largest beer markets in the world as of 2014 (as calculated by the National Beer Wholesalers Association, using the most up-to-date data possible), and narrowed it down to the nine nations where AB InBev has very little presence but SAB Miller is dominant. A quick glance at the list shows that AB InBev shareholders stand to gain a great deal: Volume (US Barrels) AB Inbev 2014 Market Share SAB Miller 2014 Market Share 2015 Population (mil.) GDP per Capita (2015) Est. 2015 Growth 1. Poland 32.72 N/A 37.6% 38.56 $26,500 3.60% 2. South Africa 28.75 N/A 82% 53.68 $13,200 1.30% 3. Colombia 18.7 0.3% 98% 46.74 $13,800 3% 4. Australia 15.78 8.5% 37.8% 22.75 $65,400 2.50% 5. Czech Republic 13.17 0.8% 43.5% 10.64 $31,600 4.20% 6. Peru 11.871 4.1% 95.1% 30.45 $12,000 3% 7. Hungary 6.3 4.5% 30.2% 9.9 $26,200 2.90% 8. Ecuador 4.642 7.7% 92% 15.87 $11,300 0% 9. Slovakia 3.43 0.6% 38.6% 5.45 $29,700 3.60% Data sources: National Beer Wholesalers Association and the CIA's World Factbook. The total population of the countries listed above is 234 million. They averaged a gross domestic product per capita in 2015 of $25,522 and experienced average economic growth of 2.68% that same year (a year that was tough for commodity-based economies, several of which are listed above). With combined post-merger market shares ranging from 34.7% to a very healthy 99.2%, AB InBev's share in these markets will average around 65%. Essentially, in exchange for half ownership of U.S.-based Miller Coors, which at last count has about 14% of the U.S. market, and half of China's CR Snow, which has 22% of the Chinese beer market -- both markets which are far more competitive than those listed above -- AB InBev gains near-monopolistic control of nine emerging markets that are almost sure to offer higher growth and greater profitability, especially when compared to the U.S. It should also be noted that CR Snow was never particularly profitable: SAB Miller's stake in it only fetched $1.6 billion, despite the fact that CR Snow is the world's largest beer brewer by volume. Sounds good, right? It gets even better. In addition to operating practically competition-free in the markets listed above, AB InBev will also continue to be a (if not the) dominant player in practically every other beer market you can think of. These include Brazil (64% market share, population 200 million), Argentina (79% market share, population 41.5 million), Colombia (98% market share, population 48 million), South Korea (56% market share, population 50 million), Mexico (51% market share, population 60.5 million), the United States (45% market share, population 320 million), and AB InBev's own China operations (14% market share, population 1.35 billion). In a world with antitrust laws, this is just about as good as it gets. The long, long term I want to tackle the financial portion of my case in two parts: traditional financial metrics, and the more speculative task of future profitability. Obviously the latter is tricky, but that's what investing is all about. First, a brief overview of AB InBev and SAB Miller's historic financial performance: 5-Year Avg. Return on Equity 5-Year EPS Growth Rate Forward P/E 5-Year EPS Estimated Growth AB InBev 22.88% 8.67% 30 11.47% SAB Miller 14.02% 7.72% 25.58 13.79% Data source: S&P Capital IQ. If we conclude anything from the above data, it's that these mammoth brewing organizations have plenty of earnings growth ahead, fueled by huge demographic trends. The future AB InBev's strong competitive position, coupled with over $1.85 billion in estimated annual cost savings, builds a strong case for a long runway of profitability -- but is it enough to make it a stock to own for 100 years? The thing with investing for the ultra-long term is that, as we have seen time and time again, fancy spreadsheets that project profits well into the future are basically pointless. The best types of investments are those in companies that have, in Warren Buffett parlance, a durable competitive advantage. Mr. Buffett would be the first to tell anyone who will listen that, despite his mathematically inclined mind, he has never once done an analysis of discounted cash flow or long-term earnings on any of his investments. To pass as an investment, the rational needs to beglaringlyobvious. You might be thinking that Google, Apple, and Amazon.com are great contenders as century-long holdings, but I would caution against this claim. These are exceptional organizations, to be sure, and I certainly wouldn't bet against Google being around in 100 years -- but I also know what relentless competition can do to the strongest of companies. Don't forget that in 1973 Sears built the world's tallest building in Chicago, to show off its status as the world's largest retailer. Look how that turned out. Foolish bottom line The companies that last the longest, that generate profits for their owners decade after decade despite World Wars and Great Depressions, are often simple consumer-facing product brands. Think Coca-Cola, Gillette (now part of Procter & Gamble), Clorox, and of course, Budweiser. Who knows what the world will be like in 100 years: Will we have a thriving colony on Mars, as Tesla's Elon Musk desires? Will we be mining asteroids and spending our leisure time in virtual-reality simulations? Your guess is as good as mine. But humans have been drinking beer for thousands of years, and I think it's safe to say that they'll probably be drinking it in one hundred more. And there AB InBev will be: after a long day of asteroid mining near Saturn, providing citizens of the worlds a cold one. The article 1 Stock to Own for the Next Century originally appeared on Fool.com. Sean O'Reilly has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Alphabet (A shares), Alphabet (C shares), Amazon.com, Apple, Boston Beer, and Tesla Motors. The Motley Fool has the following options: long January 2018 $90 calls on Apple and short January 2018 $95 calls on Apple. The Motley Fool recommends Anheuser-Busch InBev NV, Coca-Cola, and Procter and Gamble. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors.Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: Netflix. Down by over 20% so far this year, Netflix is among the market's worst-performing stocks to date. Long-term Netflix investors should be used to the volatility, though -- shares plunged by over 80% in 2011 before finishing as the S&P 500's single biggest gainer in both 2013 and 2015. More price swings could be in the cards for the coming month as the streaming video titan updates investors on its business trends and shells out tons of cash on new shows and new streaming features. Here are the main things for investors to watch in July. Quarterly earnings results Netflix will post second-quarter financial results after the market closes on Monday, July 18. CEO Reed Hastings and his executive team are projecting just 500,000 new members will have signed up in the U.S. market. That pace would mark a significant slowdown as Netflix is expected to face a raft of cancellations in the face of price hikes.. Don't hold your breath for a profitability bounce, either. Average revenue per user will likely climb, but Netflix's increased content spending should eat up all of those gains. Contribution margin is expected to stay flat at 33% of sales. The company targets getting that number up to 40% by 2020. The growth prospects are brighter for international markets, where Netflix should add 2 million new users to bring its base up to 34 million, or 40% of the total. Combined, though, the company should add just 2.5 million users compared to 3.3 million in the year-ago quarter. New content releases Netflix is slated to release 600 hours of original and exclusive content this year, or double last year's output. Hit shows are critical to keeping members happily streaming, and when the company has outpaced management's growth goal lately, it's been because of surprising demand for shows like Orange Is the New Black and Sense8. July brings a few notable releases, including the third season of animated comedy BoJack Horseman (launching July 22) and season 2 of international action show Marco Polo (on July 1). The real fireworks start in a few months when content from the output deal with Disney begins hitting Netflix's service. We don't know what movies will be first in line, but there's no shortage of great options. Pixar's Finding Dory could be coming to Netflix as early as September. Image source: Disney. Disney is in the middle of an epic run at theaters, with blockbusters across all of its studios:Zootopia (Disney Animation), Captain America: Civil War (Marvel), The Jungle Book (Disney Pictures), and Finding Dory (Pixar). Any of these hits will likely see huge streaming demand for Netflixbeginning in September. Notable product upgrades After content and marketing, tech development is Netflix's largest spending priority. The company plans to plow$700 million into improving its service just in 2016. These upgrades help keep it one step ahead of rival services in terms of creating the best streaming experience. They mostly occur behind the scenes. Last quarter, for example, Netflix rolled out a new video-encoding approach that produced a 20% bump in streaming quality -- or a 20% decrease in data consumption for those users that are bandwidth-constrained. Another product improvement in that vein could come in July. The company is reportedly working on an offline mode that would let users download shows to their mobile device while on Wi-Fi to watch at their leisure, thereby removing the reliance on costly cellular networks. Rival Amazon already has that feature in its streaming service. It just makes sense for Netflix to follow suit. When asked about offline viewing in April, Hastings said management's thinking has evolved on that score. Whereas before they were focused on the simplicity behind instant streaming, things are changing now that Netflix is global and operating in areas with spotty cellular coverage. "We should keep an open mind about [offline viewing]," he told investors. The article 3 Things for Netflix Inc. Investors to Watch in July originally appeared on Fool.com. Demitrios Kalogeropoulos owns shares of Netflix and Walt Disney. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Amazon.com, Netflix, and Walt Disney. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: iStock/Thinkstock. Make no mistake about it, Bank of America performed admirably on both rounds of this year's stress test, paving the way for the bank to boost its dividend by 50% and repurchase $5 billion worth of stock over the next 12 months.This is particularly good news today, given the turmoil and uncertainty ignited by the vote last week in the United Kingdom to separate from the European Union. The stress tests demonstrate that Bank of America has more than enough capital to survive whatever outcome may materialize, regardless of how severe it might be. To pass this year's test, Bank of America and the other global systematically important banks, or GSIBs, didn't simply have to prove that they could make it through a financial crisis similar to 2008, they also had to convince the Federal Reserve that they could simultaneously absorb losses from an event akin to the 2011 European sovereign debt crisis. Oh, and on top of that, the stress test presupposed that a GSIB's largest counterparty went into default. It's also worth noting that many of the assumptions underlying the test stack the odds against the participating banks. The Fed assumes, for instance, that a bank faced with such a scenario wouldn't cut its dividend, reduce operating expenses, or stop buying back stock until it exhausts its outstanding share repurchase authority. The nation's biggest banks have certainly been guilty of squandering capital in the past -- namely, by buying back tens of billions of dollars worth of stock at inflated valuations in the years leading up to the 2008 crisis -- but it's absurd to think they'd repeat this mistake while it's still fresh in their minds. Consequently, the fact that Bank of America not only passed this year's test, but did so with tens of billions of dollars' worth of excess capital, should put its shareholders at ease. Going into the test, Bank of America was projected to have a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 11.6%. Based on its risk-weighted assets at the end of last year, this means it had $163 billion worth of the highest-quality capital available to absorb loan and trading losses, as well as losses from a default of its largest counterparty.Bank of America then emerged from the Fed's hypothetical gauntlet with a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 8.1% (this is before its planned capital actions are factored in). Using its projected risk-weighted assets at the end of the stress test's nine-quarter scenario, this means the North Carolina-based bank would have $123 billion worth of high-quality capital. There's accordingly no question that Bank of America has built, over the past six years,what JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon refers to as a fortress balance sheet. But -- and this is the point of this article -- even though we know Bank of America would have $123 billion worth of common equity tier 1 capital, there's less certainty around the question of how much the Fed would expect it to hold in order for to be considered well-capitalized for regulatory purposes -- which has implications for its ability to return capital in the real world. If you were to go off the instructions for this year's test, you'd be led to believe that Bank of America must meet a minimum common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 4.5%. That would equate to $69 billion worth of capital for the nation's second biggest bank by assets, which, in turn, means it emerged from the test with $54 billion in high-quality capital above its regulatory minimum. The problem with this measure is that it applies to all 33 of the banks that were tested. And it does so despite the fact that, outside of the confines of the test, eight of the banks must hold more capital than the other 25. These are the GSIBs, which are subject to additional capital buffers that, while not fully phased in until 2019, equate to between 1% and 5.5% of extra capital relative to risk-weighted assets. Once its own buffer is factored into the analysis, this means Bank of America must actually hold a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 5.875% to be considered well-capitalized, according to its latest 10-Q. This would reduce its excess capital post-stress test to $34 billion. This may seem like an academic question, but it's the difference for Bank of America of having $54 billion in excess common equity tier 1 capital and $34 billion. And given that one of the bank's biggest challenges right now is its low return on equity, which is inversely related to the amount of capital on its balance sheet, this matters because it plays a role in the Fed's decision to approve or deny Bank of America's annual proposals to raise its dividend and/or share repurchase plans. To this end, it's fanciful to assume Bank of America would have passed the first round of this year's test with an ending common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 4.6% -- just above the purported minimum -- much less have been allowed to boost its dividend by 50% and increase its buyback authorization by $5 billion. The net result is that even though the instructions to this year's test say the 4.5% common equity tier 1 capital ratio is the minimum Bank of America must hold to satisfy the quantitative component of the test, the reality is that its minimum ratio is actually 5.875%. Indeed, one of the Fed's governors all but said as much earlier this month, intimating that GSIBs would soon be held explicitly accountable for their buffers on the annual exam. Thus, while Bank of America did a great job on this year's test, it's important that we are all looking at the appropriate mark. The article Bank of America: An Unanswered Question From This Year's Stress Test originally appeared on Fool.com. John Maxfield owns shares of Bank of America. The Motley Fool recommends Bank of America. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. In mid-June,Local Motors, the leading vehicle technology integrator and creator of the world's first 3D-printed car, introduced the first self-driving vehicle to integrate the advanced cognitive computing capabilities of IBM's brainy Jeopardy champ Watson. Here's what you should know about the innovative electric shuttle named "Olli." Image source: Local Motors. Meet Olli Olli was unveiled and demonstrated during the June 16grand opening of Local Motors' facility in National Harbor, MD, a resort destination just sound of Washington, D.C. The EV, which can carry up to 12 people, is equipped with advanced vehicle technology, including IBM Watson Internet of Things (IoT) for Automotive, to improve the passenger experience and allow natural interaction with the vehicle. Olli has been cruising public roads in D.C. at select times since its unveiling. Local Motors, which is currently producingadditional Ollis at its headquarters near Phoenix, aims to have 30 vehicles on the streets of the nation's capital by Christmas, according to CEO and co-founder Jay Rogers, Jr. Public road testing of driverless autos is legal in D.C. and in eight U.S. states: California, Michigan, Florida, Nevada, Arizona, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Utah. While Olli was only recently officially introduced, cities all over the world have expressed interest in putting the smart self-driving EV to use on their public roads.Local Motors sold 10 vehicles during the grand opening. By the end of the year, there will also be Ollis in Miami, Florida; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Las Vegas, Nevada, among other unnamed cities. Olli went from concept to completion in three months, illustrating Local Motors' production speed advantage over traditional automakers. The privately held company envisions having hundreds of microfactories all over the world where it can quickly produce crowd-sourced vehicles of various types. Olli's technology In addition to Big Blue -- whose involvement is explored in more depth below -- Local Motors' partners for Olli include the following privately held companies: Roding: German company that assisted with digital designs and played a key role in the vehicle build. Paravan: Provided the driving system. Forward Engineering: Provided expertise in composite manufacturing. Meridian Autonomous Systems: Provided systems that monitor diagnostics. GSP: Provided communications and security systems. Best Mile: Provided software for fleet management and route optimization. Icarus: Provided a digital checklist for daily operations like maintenance and service. Olli's self-driving tech is comprised of three types of sensors: lidar, optical cameras, and GPS. By comparison,Alphabet'sGoogle self-driving tech uses these sensors plus ultrasonic sonar and radar, whileTesla Motors'Autopilot uses cameras, radar, sonar, and GPS, but not lidar. Lidar -- a laser-based tech -- is currently prohibitively expensive for use in mass-market passenger vehicles.This is one reason that many believe Alphabet will likely operate -- or sell to others -- a fleet of Uber-like on-demand self-driving vehicles, rather than license its proprietary tech to automakers. Many of Olli's components are 3D-printed by the company's Big Area Additive Manufacturing (BAAM) machine, made by privately held Cincinnati Inc. Some additional specs about Olli: RANGE City 32.4 mi (58 km) POWER SYSTEM Max capacity (kWh) 15 Charger type 3 Phase AC Charge time (220V) 4.5 hours DIMENSIONS L x W x H 12.86 ft x 6.73 ft x 8.2 ft ECONOMY Average fuel economy 2.16 mi/kWh (3.48km/kWh) Typical cost to recharge $1.80 (euro3.91) Olli marks IBM Watson's entree into self-driving vehicles Olli is the first self-driving vehicle to integrate the IBM Watson IoT for Automotive platform, which uses the cloud-based cognitive computing capability of Watson, best known for beating the top Jeopardy champs in 2011. The platform was launched in December. Watson is often described as artificial intelligence tech, but it goes beyond AI to machine learning, which "teaches" a machine to learn, based on huge volumes of collected data. With Olli, Watson will analyze and learn from gads of transportation data, produced by more than 30 sensors embedded throughout the vehicle. In addition to the Internet of Things applications that will enable Olli to learn about road conditions and the like, the brainy EV will be able to learn about -- and from -- passengers who interact with it. This feature is similar to the voice-activated AI assistants of Apple(Siri), Alphabet (Google Assistant), and Amazon (Alexa), which are incorporated into various devices -- such as Amazon's Echo and Google Home -- but taken to a higher level. These big tech players, however, have been upping their involvement in machine learning, so their assistants' IQs should continue to increase. The IBM Watson IoT for Automotive platform incorporated into Olli leverages four Watson developer APIs -- including speech-to-text and text-to-speech -- to enable interactions between the vehicle and passengers. Some examples of how passengers can interact with Olli: Asking how the vehicle works. Asking why it's making specific driving decisions. Requesting personalized recommendations on local destinations such as restaurants or historical sites, which Olli provides based on an analysis of personal preferences. Watson is part of IBM's turnaround plan Data by YCharts. Big Blue's financial performance -- and thus, its stock price -- has fallen behind the leading tech pack of Amazon, Alphabet, Apple, and others in recent years. Revenue has declined for 16consecutive quarters on a year-over-year basis, which has negatively affected earnings. The vast majority of the declines, however, stem from the company's divesting legacy businesses that it's exiting, as it transitions to areas such as cloud computing and data analytics, and foreign exchange currency headwinds in 2014 and 2015. IBM is betting big that Watson will help turn things around for it. The Watson IoT platform, launched in December, is targeting the automotive, home, building, retail, and electronics industries. Watson appears to have amazing potential, though it remains to be seen how well Big Blue executes. The article IBM Watson Enters Self-Driving Vehicle Space Via the Worlds First Autonomous Talking Electric Shuttle originally appeared on Fool.com. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Beth McKenna has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Alphabet (A shares), Alphabet (C shares), Amazon.com, Apple, and Tesla Motors. The Motley Fool has the following options: long January 2018 $90 calls on Apple and short January 2018 $95 calls on Apple. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. What happened? Connecticut-based People's United Financial is reaching across Long Island Sound for an acquisition. The company said it has agreed to acquire Suffolk Bancorp , a lender named after, and headquartered in, the larger of Long Island's two counties. People's United Financial is the holding company of People's United Bank; Suffolk Bancorp fills essentially the same role for Suffolk County National Bank. Image source: Suffolk Bancorp. Suffolk Bancorp stockholders are to receive 2.225 shares of People's United Financial for each share of Suffolk Bancorp they hold. This values the New York company at approximately $33.55 per share, which is 43% higher than the stock's closing price the trading day before the deal was announced. All told, the purchase is valued at around $402 million. People's United Financial expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings and to close in Q4 of this year. Does it matter? It matters greatly for Suffolk Bancorp but will likely be less impactful for People's United Financial. It almost goes without saying that the former's investors will benefit: A 40%-plus premium to the share price is nothing to sneeze at. Even though Suffolk Bancorp does not have a huge footprint on the populous island, nor a massive asset base, its 27 branches nevertheless comprise a good add-on to the new owner's operations. People's United Financial quoted its CEO Howard Bulver as saying that "[w]ith the 9th largest market share in Suffolk County, a solid relationship-banking approach and loyal, long-tenured customers, Suffolk County National Bank's strong Long Island presence complements our previous acquisitions and organic growth in the New York Metro area." The $402 million or so that People's United Financial will pay in the deal -- while a hefty premium to Suffolk Bancorp's market price -- is well within the company's means. And since it's paying entirely in stock, the deal shouldn't batter the finances too much. The article Instant Analysis: People's United Financial Scoops Up Long Island Bank originally appeared on Fool.com. Eric Volkman has no position in any stocks mentioned, and neither does The Motley Fool. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: NVIDIA. I have written quite extensively about graphics specialist NVIDIA's upcoming ultra-high end graphics chip known as GP102. We know that the company has this product in the works, and we even know that the chip has "taped out" (meaning that the design has been completed). What we don't know is when exactly the company intends to launch it. According to a post from a user over on the Beyond3D forums, GP102 may actually launch fairly soon. Potentially arriving next quarter User Erinyes on the Beyond3D forums claims that "both GP102 and GP106 will be out next quarter." Erinyes does not name sources, but this poster's track record actually appears to be quite solid. Back in May 2015, when rumors were floating around that NVIDIA might tap Samsung to manufacture its next generation Tegra processor codenamed Parker, the user claimed that it would actually be built on TSMC's 16-nanometer FinFET process. That user also said that Parker would use NVIDIA's custom Denver CPU cores rather than ARM's Cortex A72, another tidbit that wound up being correct. Then, in June of 2015, the user claimed that NVIDIA's GP100 chip, which powers the recently announced Tesla P100 accelerators, had taped out -- meaning that the design was complete. It often takes about a year to go from tape-out to mass production, and given that the parts were in production as of NVIDIA's May earnings call, it would seem that this information was good. Finally, the user claimed that NVIDIA's next generation graphics processors would be built at TSMC and not at Samsung as rumored, something that once again proved true. I don't know who this user is, but her/his track record appears to be excellent when it comes to future NVIDIA products. Strike while the iron is hot; I like it NVIDIA's revenue growth story in gaming has been driven by two major factors: unit growth as well as an increase in average selling prices, as the slide below shows. Image source: NVIDIA. NVIDIA can drive average selling prices up as long as it delivers products that deliver extremely high performance. So, for example, if GP102 winds up being approximately 33% faster than the GP104-based GeForce GTX 1080, then the company should be able to charge at least 33% more while still offering a compelling performance-per-dollar. Note that the premium that NVIDIA can charge for GP102 relative to GP104 depends significantly on when it releases it. If GP102 is released about a quarter after GP104 is, then the company should have little issue getting paid a premium at least equivalent to the incremental performance that it delivers. If GP102 were to arrive, say, 6-12 months after GP104, then the premium that it can charge will likely come down, particularly if competitive pressures become greater in that time. At any rate, if NVIDIA can get GP102 out within the next 2-3 months, likely as an ultra-enthusiast product under its Titan branding, then this should have a positive impact on the company's average selling prices and gross margins. If all of the Pascal chips come in 2016, then might we see Volta in 2017? If NVIDIA is able to pull off getting the entire high-end Pascal lineup out to consumers during 2016, then I have to wonder about when we might expect the company to roll out its Volta-based graphics processors. NVIDIA's (admittedly very vague) most recent product road map from GTC 2016 shows Volta arriving sometime in late 2017 or in 2018: Image source: NVIDIA. If NVIDIA rolls out all of its high-end Pascal parts in 2016, then it's likely going to need something to launch in 2017 in order to keep the momentum going. Perhaps this road map is left intentionally vague and the company actually intends to roll out gaming-oriented Volta parts in 2017. The article NVIDIA Corporation's Next King Might Launch Next Quarter originally appeared on Fool.com. Ashraf Eassa has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Nvidia. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Xiaomi , one of China's biggest smartphone makers, was valued at $46 billion after its last funding round in late 2014. That makes it more than 40 times more valuable than GoPro , the struggling action camera that shed more than 80% of its value over the past 12 months. Comparing Xiaomi and GoPro might seem like an apples to oranges comparison, but the two companies have a lot in common. Both started as hot start-ups, and both companies have overlapping interests in action cameras and drones. Yi Technology, which creates the action cameras sold by Xiaomi, recently launched a 4K action camera with the same Ambarella chipset as GoPro's top-tier Hero 4 Black for half the price. Xiaomi also unveiled a 4K drone that costs $40 less than the Hero 4 Black, which could be bad news for GoPro's upcoming Karma drone. Yi's Action Cam (L) and Xiaomi's Mi Drone (R). Image source: Company websites. But does Xiaomi really deserve to be worth that much more than GoPro? Let's compare their growth rates and future prospects to decide. How fast are Xiaomi and GoPro growing? Xiaomi and GoPro are both experiencing slowing sales growth after feverish gains in previous years. Xiaomi's revenue rose 135% in 2014, but inched upjust 5% to 78 billion yuan ($11.7 billion) in 2015. That missed the company's own sales target of 100 billion yuan, which would have represented 35% growth. Xiaomi's sales fell due to competitors mimicking its strategy of online-only sales and selling devices at paper-thin margins, as well as a slowdown in the Chinese smartphone market. GoPro's sales rose 41% in 2014 but just 16% to $1.6 billion in2015. The company faces similar challenges as Xiaomi -- demand for its action cameras has waned, and competitors have flooded the market with similar devices at lower prices. Due to those pressures, analysts expect GoPro's sales to fall 17% this year. By comparing Xiaomi's 2015 sales to its valuation, we can see that it trades at just under 4 times sales, which is lofty for a "mature" tech company with single-digit sales growth. Apple , which posted 28% sales growth in 2015, has an Enterprise Value/Sales ratio of 2.4. Sony , which posted a 1% sales decline last year, has an EV/Sales ratio of just 0.4. GoPro has an EV/Sales ratio of 0.8. If GoPro were valued like Xiaomi, it would be trading in the low $50s, as it was just a year ago. Conversely, if Xiaomi were publicly traded and valued like GoPro, its valuation would plummet to $9.4 billion. Comparing Xiaomi and GoPro's margins A 2013 filing revealed that Xiaomi's operating margin wasjust 1.8%. That figure hasn't been updated since then, but it's likely declined due to increased competition, investments in new consumer electronics, and the expansion of the company's digital ecosystem. Therefore, Xiaomi probably isn't profitable today. Xiaomi's Mi TV. Image source: Xiaomi. GoPro posted a non-GAAP operating loss of $96.8 million last quarter, compared to an operating profit of $49.1 million a year earlier. This means that GoPro's operating margin fell from 13.5% to negative levels within a single year. That rapid decline was caused by the company's lack of new flagship products and the failure of its Hero 4 Session camera. Struggling to diversify Xiaomi and GoPro face similar problems, but the former is arguably in better shape than the latter. Xiaomi's product portfolio already includes fitness trackers, smart TVs, air purifiers, drones, and other gadgets. Its software ecosystem includes its own Android app store and investments in mobile game makers and O2O (online to offline) services. GoPro is trying to diversify its business, but its efforts have been somewhat clumsier. The company has been selling VR rigs for 360-degree filmmaking, but these devices are bulky, pricey, and require at least six GoPro cameras. Rivals have already launched stand-alone spherical cameras that can produce 360-degree content at a fraction of the price. It promised to launch a drone, but delayed its launch earlier this year and hasn't revealed any specs to the public. It's also struggling to improve its editing software and media ecosystems. The verdict: Should Xiaomi be worth more than GoPro? Since Xiaomi generated over seven times as much revenue as GoPro last year, it certainly deserves a higher valuation. But Xiaomi probably shouldn't be worth over 40 GoPros, since its sales growth has slowed to a trickle and it's likely unprofitable. The "fair value" for Xiaomi as a public company would likely be under $10 billion, which raises doubts that an IPO will happen unless the company can justify its valuation. Nonetheless, the similarities between Xiaomi and GoPro are interesting to observe, because the former's diversification strategies with action cams and drones could cause big headaches for the latter in the near future. The article Should Xiaomi Be Worth More Than 40 GoPros? originally appeared on Fool.com. Leo Sun has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Ambarella, Apple, and GoPro. The Motley Fool has the following options: long January 2018 $90 calls on Apple and short January 2018 $95 calls on Apple. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. U.S. auto safety regulators warned on Thursday that Takata air bag inflators on more than 300,000 unrepaired recalled Honda vehicles show a substantial risk of rupturing, and urged owners to stop driving the "unsafe" cars until they have been fixed. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) cited new test data that shows some 2001-2003 model Honda and Acura vehicles have as high as a 50 percent chance of a dangerous air bag inflator rupture in a crash. Takata air bag inflators are linked to as many as 14 deaths worldwide, including 13 in Honda Motor Co vehicles. "With as high as a 50 percent chance of a dangerous air bag inflator rupture in a crash, these vehicles are unsafe and need to be repaired immediately," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. "Folks should not drive these vehicles unless they are going straight to a dealer to have them repaired immediately, free of charge." Honda said in a statement that it agreed with the analysis of testing and the 313,000 vehicles "should only be driven to a dealer in order to have their Takata air bag inflators replaced as rapidly as possible." Takata Corp said it had no immediate comment. Honda said it was recently informed by NHTSA of the analysis of the front driver air bag inflators on 2001-2003 vehicles tested in Florida over the last few months. The analysis revealed a very high rupture rate in laboratory testing, it said. Honda has already repaired more than 70 percent of the original population of vehicles recalled with this specific version of inflator. The vehicles include the 2001-2002 Honda Accord, Honda Civic, 2002 Honda CR-V, Honda Odyssey, 2003 Honda Pilot, 2002-2003 Acura 3.2 TL and 2003 Acura 3.2CL U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, a Florida Democrat, said urgent action is needed. "These vehicles are deathtraps, and Takata and Honda have understated the risks for far too long," he said in a statement. "Merely telling people to come to dealers is not enough - they need to go out and find these vehicles and get them off the road." Nearly 100 million Takata inflators have been declared unsafe worldwide. In May automakers agreed to recall another 35 million to 40 million U.S. air bag inflators by 2019. Previously, 14 automakers had recalled 24 million U.S. vehicles with 28.8 million inflators. (Reporting by David Shepardson, Editing by Franklin Paul and Tom Brown) IMAGE SOURCE:RAYTHEON. Ever since 9/11, Washington, D.C., has feared the threat from unidentified low-flying objects -- be they cruise missiles, drones, or airplanes. To keep such threats at bay, in 2014, the Department of Defense hired Raytheon to float a pair of 240-foot aerostats (see above) over the U.S. Army's Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. There, from a perch 2 miles high in the sky, these high-tech blimps would employ powerful radars to seek out dangerous flying objects 340 miles in every direction. Needing no fuel to stay aloft, nor pilots needing sleep on board (all functions are monitored from a ground station), each of Raytheon's Joint Land Attack Cruise Missile Defense Elevated Netted Sensor System (JLENS) aerostats would be able to remain on-post for 30 days at a time. At end of watch, they would be reeled back in to their ground stations, have their helium supplies topped off, and then immediately be returned to service. In theory, the setup was designed to provide AWACS-level aerial surveillance over Washington, D.C., and its surroundings, and for a cost just one-fifth what it would cost to maintain round-the-clock airborne AWACS coverage. In theory. Theory and practice In practice, JLENS received a big black eye last November, when one of the aerostats broke loose from its tether and led federal officials a merry chase across two states. Dragging more than a mile's worth of heavy cable behind it and knocking down power lines all along its route, JLENS was finally brought to earth by multiple shotgun blasts from Pennsylvania state troopers -- but not before causing an estimated $2 million in damage. And it turns out, that's not the only damage JLENS's escapade caused. Legislative trial balloons With its operations suspended post-incident, and at risk of total cancellation, JLENS briefly received a lifeline from the Obama administration in February. The president's 2017 draft defense budget requested $45.5 million in funding to keep JLENS flying. But that idea went over like a lead balloon in Congress. Committee after committee working on the budget recommended committing only enough money to JLENS to pay for winding down the program and closing it out. At last report, neither the version of the defense budget passed by the House of Representatives nor the Senate's version contained any mention of further funding for JLENS. While a story that ran on DefenseNews.com last week suggests the Army still believes that "something JLENS-like is the only solution" to providing over-the-horizon surveillance of low-flying threats, it doesn't appear that JLENS per se will be that solution. Until someone comes up with a better idea, therefore -- and funds it -- Washington may remain effectively blind to the cruise missile threat. What it means to investors That sounds like bad news for whoever inherits the White House in January. It's not great news for Raytheon, either. You see, if JLENS were renewed, Raytheon wouldn't have gotten just the $45 million the Obama administration proposed. Continued funding of a three-year trial run of JLENS could have set the stage for additional years of funding once the system proved effective. It probably would have led, too, to additional purchases of JLENS systems for use in other locations. Long-term projections suggested that eventually, as many as 16 paired JLENS systems might have been built. Exclusive of sales cost, just maintaining and operating all those blimps could have provided somewhere in the neighborhood of $900 million in annual revenues for Raytheon. Now that the system is finally and conclusively dead, however, so, too, is any chance Raytheon will collect those revenues. Long story short: Analysts who follow Raytheon have been predicting long-term earnings growth of 8.7% for the stock, and it seems likely that JLENS factored into those expectations. With JLENS gone, you should expect estimates of Raytheon's long-term growth rate to take a hit. The article Washington Blinded, Raytheon Beggared by JLENS Cancellation originally appeared on Fool.com. Fool contributorRich Smithowns shares of Raytheon. You can find him onMotley Fool CAPS, publicly pontificating under the handleTMFDitty, where he's currently ranked No. 278 out of more than 75,000 rated members.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. IMAGE SOURCE: TOTAL S.A. The Brexit's effect on big oil companies came hard and fast, withTotal S.A. sinking nearly 9% in value the day after. However, it's difficult to know what the long-term effects will be. Everything from oil price fluctuations to the potential for new U.K. oil regulations could affect oil producers in the long term. While it's prudent to pay attention to the fallout, it's also wise to remember that oil producers will continue day-to-day operations, both in terms of current production and in activity to drive future growth. For example, while the Brexit was the primary reason for Total's 9% drop, the company's current investments and strategic planning will probably drive its long-term valuation and production levels. For this reason, let's look at Total's expansion efforts in East Africa. Total is experiencing a number of obstacles as it expands into an unproven and undeveloped terrain. Will these obstacles disrupt and prevent its expansion efforts? Acquiring assets in Africa Total isn't new to the African upstream market. In the first quarter, the company produced an average of 630,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/D) in the continent, accounting for over 25% of its worldwide production. Ultimately, Total is putting in the early legwork to reap the benefits of a potential oil boom in East Africa. In Uganda alone, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates 2.5 billion barrels of untapped oil reserves, and 1.2 billion to 1.7 billion barrels are expected to be recoverable, as Uganda hopes production is up and running by 2018. Total has a 33% interest in four blocks of Uganda's Lake Albert region, where development efforts are under way. If Total continues to develop its East African efforts, it should see a significant boost in production in the 2018 to 2019 timeframe, assuming Uganda can help foster those efforts. But that's a big assumption. Pipeline issues in Africa Uganda and Tanzania are planning to build a $4 billion, 900-mile oil pipeline that connects Uganda's landlocked oil to the Tanzanian coast. Construction of the pipeline, though, will probably not begin this August as planned, as there is no official development plan. The pipeline -- which Total, along with the U.K.-based Tullow Oil and Chinese state-owned oil company CNOOC, is expected to invest in -- will have the capacity to move an estimated 200,000 barrels per day. The goal to open the pipeline by 2020 remains in place, although that plan puts the first Ugandan oil exports a full two years behind the 2018 timeline the Bank of Uganda has called for. And again, that's assuming work on the pipeline is even completed on time. And that's not the only pipeline in Africa hindering Total's operations. The Nigerian Trans Niger Pipeline, of which Total is a partner in, was recently shut down because of an oil leak. The pipeline, operated by Royal Dutch Shell , transports around 130,000 barrels of oil per day and is critical to for the companies to transport the oil for export. The pipeline issues highlight real impediments to African oil production. Regardless of its efforts to develop new oil fields, Total has to figure out a secure and reliable method to move the crude oil to the coast for transportation. With an exploration and production presence in over 50 countries and an expected increase from the 2.3 million BOE/D it produced worldwide in 2015 to 2.8 million BOE/D in 2017, Total has many irons in the fire. But tapping into the East African production market could push those numbers even higher by 2020. Africa -- whether from delayed timelines, faulty infrastructure, or the persistent threat of attacks from militant groups -- will remain challenging to that endeavor. Foolish bottom line The Brexit happened, and we have to accept it. While you should continue to pay attention to the fallout, though, you should also stay focused on company activities. With its current production of 630,000 BOE/D, Total has already proved it can operate within the difficult confines of Africa's challenging midstream infrastructure. Since it's too far away to seriously comment on the likelihood of the Uganda-Tanzania pipeline completion, though, today you should just take comfort that Total is making a savvy play for future production in the enormous East African oil reserves. The article Will Pipeline Issues Delay Total S.A.'s Expansion in Africa? originally appeared on Fool.com. David Lettis has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Total. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. He was among the most famous men in the world and Americas biggest celebrity, and upon his death, even his former adversaries lowered their flags to half-mast. Were not talking Elvis, or some Kardashian, but rather Americas first president, General George Washington. As Americans look ahead to the November election, Fox News Contributor Newt Gingrich and his wife, Callista, are offering up a timely gift for those who need to see where it all began. The First American is out this week and available at gingrichproductions.com, and it tells a story every American should see before they vote about the man behind the monuments: George Washington. From the hallowed grounds of Washingtons Mt. Vernon estate, the former Speaker of the House and his wife narrate the story about the man who is often an enigma to most Americans. The First American moves at an engaging pace by offering up the right mix of narration, re-enactments and historical context, provided by noted historian Douglas Brinkley, among many others. From Washingtons debilitating battle for New York, to his stepping down after a second term, Washingtons entire story is well covered in just 90 minutes. Actor Robert Lyons, as the founding father himself, rises to the challenge of playing the larger-than-life figure, with enough reverence and humility to make even Washington proud. Bottom line: If you are looking to be informed and entertained, there is no need to mortgage the house for those "Hamilton" tickets. The First American, priced at $14.99, provides the ultimate portrait of the man who was first in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen. Gwyneth Paltrow is finally responding to Star Magazine naming her The Most Hated Celebrity in 2013. At the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity on Wednesday, BBC host Stepher Sackur asked the Goop blogger what it was like to find out about the title. Paltrow recalled, First of all, I was like, 'I'm the most hated celebrity? More than, like, Chris Brown?' What did I do? The 43-year-old said she was shocked to top the list of hated celebs that featured other stars like Anne Hathaway, Madonna, Lindsay Lohan, Kristen Stewart and Chris Brown. Sackur pressed the subject with the A-lister arguing, But maybe you just make people feel bad sometimes. The single mother replied, "All I can do is be my authentic self, and if you know me, then you know who I am, and that I have fun and eat and am so appreciative for my life. But I think there are things about me that make people draw conclusions." Paltrow speculated that fans think shes spoiled because she was born to famous parents, Bruce Paltrow and Blythe Danner. "That inspires a lot of resentment. My parents did well, and I was able to go to a fantastic school, and we grew up in New York City, but the minute I left my college to try to pursue acting, my father was really supportive. But he said, you know, 'You are completely on your own.' So, he never gave me anything. I never had any supplementation. He never helped me with my rent. I never had a trust fund. So the idea that I am spoiled or that I didn't work for what I have is just not accurate, but I can see how somebody might have that perception." When Roo, an abandoned 5-year-old sheltie, arrived at the Human Society of Marion County, Florida, the canine could hardly walk due to a congenital deformity. But now, Roo short for Kangaroo is back on his feet, thanks to a wheeled cart that the North Central Florida community paid for, Ocala.com reported. Lynne Beurrier, head veterinary technician at the countys humane society, told the news site that Roo was found malnourished and handicapped. His deformity affects his spine, front legs and shoulder blades. He touched our hearts, she told Ocala.com. He has no idea he is handicapped. He thinks all dogs walk the way he does. Beurrier connected with Brenda Hall, a humane society volunteer and administrator/board member for Marion County Lost and Found Pets, who started a GoFundMe.com page and organized door-to-door solicitations to raise money for Roo. Hall and her team raised $1,800, and they have used the money to help Roo regain his mobility. That included buying a cart by Eddies Wheels for Pets, a Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts-based organization that builds custom-made wheeled carts for handicapped pets. Eddies Wheels development director Gerry Brent told Ocala.com: We all are so excited we could get the wagon. Roo deserves to be happy. Although it will be a while before Roo is adoptable, hes working hard to regain his strength with daily exercises using the device. Beurrier told Ocala.com that he also will receive laser therapy to aid blood flow. Brent suggested that Roo is just the type of customer his organization aims to serve. Roo fits our slogan of Never quit, he told the news site. Although prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among American men, treatment has resulted in a 99 percent average five-year survival rate for diagnosed individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, some experts argue that survival rate could be even higher with screening that is less invasive than the current standard. Standard prostate cancer screening involves a prostate exam and a blood test that aims to identify a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) biomarker. If a mans PSA level is high, doctors recommend a prostate biopsy. But for every four men who undergo the procedure, only three will end up having aggressive prostate cancer. Dr. Harry Fisch, a board certified urologist based at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Medical College of Cornell University is aiming to eliminate what he called that unnecessary poking and prodding with a more precise screening method called the 4Kscore test. The screening method, which was developed by OPKO Lab in Nashville, Tennessee, incorporates a panel of four biomarkers and other clinical information to provide a more accurate reading of how aggressive an individuals prostate cancer may be, Fisch told FoxNews.com He recommended that men who have high PSA levels take this additional blood test before getting a biopsy. It is commercially available right now, and it's been studied over many years at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Fisch said. Screening is recommended for men between 40 and 50, and African Americans and men who have a family history of prostate cancer have the highest risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. If you think you would benefit from the 4Kscore test and others like it, speak with your doctor. A Minnesota woman known as Lisa the power lifter is sharing her story of how she went from being diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer to taking home weightlifting trophies over the span of one year. Lisa Johnson, 49, underwent a double mastectomy and had fifteen lymph nodes removed after being diagnosed with the cancer in January 2015. She told Fox 5 Atlanta the diagnosis came as a surprise, and she immediately set goals to beat it. Less than a year after her surgeries, she was back in the gym training. They called me a genetic freak, she told Fox 5 Atlanta. Johnson recently won five trophies in the Wisconsin Power-lifting Competition, and she even took home the title of best female lifter. It was very humbling to watch, one male spectator told Fox 5 Atlanta. Actually, it brought tears to my eyes. next Image 1 of 3 prev next Image 2 of 3 prev Image 3 of 3 Lounging by the pool or waking up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom arent what most able-bodied individuals would consider to be complicated tasks, but for bilateral amputees, the process of changing into their prostheses for these activities can be cumbersome. For injured service members a record number reported major limb amputations in 2011 the transition back to civilian life also includes learning how to manage their new limbs. Prior to the start of the conflict there wasnt a large bilateral amputee population, and their level of care typically ended with an adaptable wheelchair, Dave Laufer, director of orthotic and prosthetic service at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, told FoxNews.com. But as more service members returned home with missing limbs, Laufer and his team were inundated with requests for something better than what was available. When you and I go home from work you take your shoe off, Dave Laufer, director of orthotic and prosthetic service at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, told FoxNews.com. An amputee shoe is attached to his leg. When bilateral amputees take their shoes off theyre now sitting on a chair and theyre stuck. To stand upright for any task, amputees first have to roll a liner onto their residual limb, put on the prosthetic socket, then attach the socket to the rest of the prosthetic limb before standing up on both feet to ensure stability of the fit before walking again. Its not a real comfortable process, Laufer said. Service members began turning to shorty feet, which were originally introduced to help amputees learn how to bear weight on their residual limbs. Shorty feet eilimate the need for liners and attachments, as they are specifically designed to fit the skin of the soldier's remaining limbs. Seeing the success of others in physical therapy, Laufer began receiving requests for more pairs from service members looking for an easy way to hang around the house. One of the early pairs is believed to have been ordered for a service member who wanted to relax around the pool on his honeymoon without having to worry about getting his prostheses wet. Others use them to play with their kids around the house or simply as a way to perform a task in the middle of the night without having to ask others for help. To get an ideal prosthesis, Laufer and his team turned to another department at Walter Reed headed by Dr. Peter Liacouras, director of services in the 3-D Medical Applications Center. Liacouras received the order and after discussion with Laufer and other staff members, 3-D printed the shorty feet in titanium alloy. Its titanium alloy, Liacouras told Foxnews.com. We have a printer here that will use an electron-B melting process to print layer by layer out of titanium powder," Liacouras told FoxNews.com. "Weve done over 70 pairs of shorty feet. The shorty feet prototype design underwent several remodeling processes, including the addition of a padded bottom to act as a sole of the foot. A military insignia can also be etched onto the model to indicate which branch a service member has served in. A civilian prosthetic company saw the success of shorty feet and began manufacturing a version of them, which helps lighten the workload for Liacouras staff. While shorty feet can provide the independence that some returning service members crave, they can also be a stepping stone for others on their path to recovery. Army Sgt. Adam Keys, 32, started walking on shorty feet before learning how to walk with another pair of prosthetic limbs. On July 14, 2010, the vehicle Keys was traveling in through Kandahar, Afghanistan, hit an improvised explosive device (IED.) The blast cost Keys his left arm and both legs above the knee. He has since undergone more than 130 surgeries, meaning the shape, size and weight of his residual limbs have changed repeatedly, requiring numerous adjustments to his prostheses. Keys was first fitted with shorty feet in 2012 when he was learning to keep his balance and stand upright again. After spending nearly two years in a hospital bed and wheelchair, he was anxious to be upright but wanted to be taller. Hes now fitted with sidekicks, which he said helps him walk easier and provide him with the height he was looking for. Sidekicks differ from shorty feet in that they have an artificial knee joint and act more like a full leg. Although [shorty feet] are great and you keep your balance and everything, you have to swing your hip out to walk, Keys told FoxNews.com. With these sidekicks, you walk naturally instead of swing your hip out, you walk as if you have knees without knees so I love it. Keys and his mother, Julie, now travel the country as motivational speakers. Julie was his caregiver for more than five years during his recovery. During his One Step Forward talks, he tells audiences that, while he enlisted in the Army on Sept. 14, 2008, on the date of his injury, July 10, 2014, his mother unknowingly enlisted, as well. People look at me and say how did I do it and I say Hey, theres 100 people behind me and one of them was my mother of course, Keys said. Keys plans to use the sidekicks and shorty feet four to five days per week at home to complete yardwork and on special occasions like nights out or weddings. Other days he relies on his wheelchair. He also plans to use the sidekicks for his speaking occasions. Having these shorty and sidekick feet, Im going to use my feet at home a lot more for sure, Keys said. Being able to stand to do anything is always much better. A Mississippi lawmaker told a woman Tuesday she should earn money for the insulin pump supplies that her 8-year-old daughter needs to survive instead of asking the state for help. Nicole Nichols told The Clarion-Ledger she was flabbergasted by the email from state Rep. Jeffrey Guice, R-Ocean Springs. Nichols said she emailed all 122 state representatives after calling 23 suppliers without finding one covered by Medicaid and in the approved network for the Medicaid-covered supply company she has used for the last three years. She wrote, "Is there someone in the legislature that can and will help these children stay healthy? They must have these medications and supplies which administer the medications to stay healthy and, quite honestly, alive!" Guice's response, which Nichols posted on her Facebook page, said, "I am sorry for your problem. Have you thought about buying the supplies with money that you earn?" Kaitlan Sudduth, the communications coordinator for the Mississippi Diabetes Foundation told the paper she was shocked at the lack of compassion in the lawmakers email. Sudduth said his comment proved that he is uneducated about the dangers of living with the disease. "One of the goals of the foundation is to educate people about diabetes, and this person is obviously not educated on it," she said. "If someone had an extra $2,000 a month maybe they would pay for it out of pocket, but that's really unrealistic." Guice issued an apology Tuesday night after initially declining an interview request from The Clarion-Ledger. "I realize my remarks to Mrs. Nichols were completely insensitive and out of line," Guice said in an emailed statement. "I am sorry and deeply regret my reply. I know nothing about her and her family and replied in knee-jerk fashion. I'd like to think the people of Mississippi and my constituents know that I'm willing to help where I am able." Nichols said Medicaid paid for her daughter Bella's medication for three years, until the supplier began outsourcing products and shipping six months ago. The subcontractor that now provides the pump supplies and insulin is not covered by Medicaid, she said, so she has been paying more than $2,000 a month. Bella inherited Type 1 diabetes from Nichols' husband, Nathan. He's a transportation company inventory specialist and also works a second job in a restaurant. Nichols said they "work their tails off" to make ends meet, but still live "paycheck to paycheck." The Associated Press contributed to this report. Click for more from The Clarion-Ledger. The 800-plus-page report of the House Select Committee on Benghazi was released earlier this week. It slams former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for her willful indifference to her obligation to repel military-style attacks on American interests and personnel at the U.S. Consulate and a nearby CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya. She particularly failed to save the lives of U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three of his colleagues, all under her care and control while she was secretary of state. The report also slams Clinton for her repeated lies about the cause of the attacks. After she told her daughter in an email that the Benghazi consulate had been attacked by an organized terrorist group using heavy military hardware, she told her colleagues at the State Department that the attacks were a spontaneous overreaction by locals to an American-made internet video about the Prophet Muhammad. After telling that lie, she sent another email, this one to the Egyptian foreign minister, repeating what she had truthfully told her daughter. The Obama administration then spread the "internet video-inspired" myth by dispatching Susan Rice, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., to repeat it to five Sunday morning American television talk shows. This was met with profound disbelief in the diplomatic and intelligence communities. Yet, still unwilling to acknowledge the truth publicly, Clinton then retold the myth to the families of the four dead Americans in the presence of their loved ones bodies as the bodies were being reverently removed from a U.S. transfer plane at Joint Base Andrews. What does all this say of the character of Clinton? How cold and heartless is she? How can she expect voters to reward her with the presidency when she failed to lift a finger to save Americans and then she repeatedly lied in public about her failures -- while being truthful about them in private? Yet the committee's report is incomplete and has aroused dissent from some Republican members of the committee. The essence of their dissent is that the unstated and unacknowledged but true mission of the committee was not to reveal facts but to conceal them. There is ample evidence to support their argument that Benghazi was the unintended consequence of Clintons private war against Libyan strongman Col. Moammar Gadhafi. Yet the report does not delve into that. The war against Gadhafi was, of course, never declared by Congress. It was conceived by Clinton, approved by President Barack Obama and agreed to by leadership in both houses of Congress and from both major political parties. It was supposed to be the crown jewel of Clintons foreign policy stewardship -- ousting the dictator, replacing him with a democracy, putting no American boots on the ground and avoiding American bloodshed. As is often the case in war, particularly illegal ones and especially secret ones, there were unintended consequences. Here the consequences have been the destruction of the government of an American ally, the imposition of mob-ruled chaos in Libya, the empowerment of terror groups in the Middle East, the deaths of innocent American civilians, the rejection of the rule of law and the obfuscation of the truth. One of those who signed off on this secret war was the person who appointed the committee and its senior staff with personal loyalists -- former House Speaker John Boehner. Another is a former congressman whose wife personally prospered from all this by serving as the go-between in the delivery of military hardware from Western sources to terror groups on the ground. The method of those who authorized the secret war was for Clinton to issue waivers -- as the secretary of state may do -- to the U.S., NATO and U.N. embargo of arms sales to Libya. What did this do? Instead of issuing waivers so as to permit arms to be sold to a friendly government, Clinton and her colleagues conspired to get arms into the hands of terrorist organizations masquerading as local militias. The CIA warned her about this, but she was indifferent to the warnings. Those who signed off on this war and its methodology were arguably conspirators in an effort to provide material support to terrorist organizations by supplying them with military equipment, allegedly to be used to topple the Gadhafi government. That is a felony -- and the beneficial or strategic use of the weapons is not a defense to the charge of providing them to terror groups. How dangerous and reckless was Clinton? She ignored the CIAs advice and let the weapons spread among deranged madmen and committed killers. Who in the intelligence community would work for her in light of this behavior? Ambassador Stevens and the others were killed by heavy military hardware that Clinton and her colleagues permitted to make its way into the hands of terror groups. Though Clinton was the creator of the conspiracy and remained at its heart and hoped to ride it triumphantly into the White House -- and though she bears more blame than any other conspirator -- the committees work fails as a seeker of the whole truth. The truth is that some of the committees congressional allies set in motion the awful events that led to the tragedy in Benghazi. The truth is that these people will probably escape accountability for their lawless behavior. The truth is that Congress knows that the president wages secret wars and it does nothing to stop them. The truth is that Hillary Clinton put her own political ambitions above fidelity to the rule of law and properly doing her job. The truth is that the House Select Committee on Benghazi concealed more truth than it revealed. Yet the government is supposed to work for us. Arent we entitled to know what the government has done in our names? Immigration has been much in the news lately, with the Supreme Court deadlock blocking President Obamas immigration reform program, Californias move to try to extend participation in their state health exchange to undocumented immigrants, and the continuing prominence of immigration as both a presidential election issue and a source of international turmoil. One aspect often lost in the headlines is just how challenging it can be for immigrants, both documented and undocumented, to get health insurance in the United States. The complexity of the nations health care system can be daunting for consumers in general. The complexity is magnified for immigrantsmany of whom have difficulty communicating in English, work for low wages at jobs that do not offer health coverage and may face a welter of legal obstacles to acquire it on their own. As a neutral, independent nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing transparency to healthcare costs and health insurance information, FAIR Health takes no position on immigration issues. We do, however, try to demystify health insurance for everyone, including immigrants. For that reason, we prepared a new segment (available in both English and Spanish) in our ongoing series of FH Health Insurance 101 articles called, Immigration and Health Insurance Coverage: What Are Your Options? The FH Health Insurance 101 series explains our health insurance system to consumers in a way that is both useful and easy to understand. Our new immigration article presents a map for immigrants of the challenging pathway to getting covered. For immigrants lucky enough to be covered by their employers health plan, getting insured is relatively easy. For those who can afford to buy health insurance directly from an insurer or broker, it is also fairly simple. For others, it may be complicated or impossible. Consider first the documented immigrantsthose who are US citizens or, in the federal governments terminology, are lawfully present. Those include green card holders (lawful permanent residents), people who have been granted asylum (asylees), refugees and other individuals on a long list of immigration statuses. Those immigrants, like most other Americans, are required to have health insurance or pay a penalty on their taxes. They can buy coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace established under the Affordable Care Act, but they have to prove their immigration status with highly technical documentation. Depending on factors such as income, US citizens and immigrants considered qualified non-citizens may be eligible for Medicaid or the Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP). But, many qualified non-citizens have to wait five years after getting their qualified immigration status before they can get Medicaid or CHIP. As for Medicare, immigrants turning 65 have to have been lawfully present for at least five years to be eligible. Now consider the countrys 11 million undocumented immigrants. They are not allowed to use the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicare, or, in many states, Medicaid or CHIP. (An exception is made for emergencies, for which even undocumented immigrants may be eligible for emergency Medicaid benefits.) Rules about Medicaid and CHIP differ from state to state, and in some states and cities some undocumented immigrants may be eligible for some kind of public health insurance. But finding out the details in their particular location can be difficultespecially since undocumented immigrants often are wary of approaching any government agency, for fear that reporting their status will get them deported. To complicate matters, immigrant families often include members with different immigration statuses. An undocumented mother may have a child who is a U.S. citizen. The mother in such a case can apply to the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid or CHIP for coverage just for the child, without having to disclose her own immigration status. In practice, however, children born in the United States to undocumented parents are three times more likely to be uninsured than other US-born children. Because undocumented immigrants face such obstacles in obtaining health insurance, they often avoid going to the doctor, and may end up costing taxpayers more when conditions that could have been prevented or treated early become expensive emergency cases. Those without health insurance often depend on a safety net of free or low-cost care at Federally Qualified Health Centers, migrant health centers and public and nonprofit hospitals. FAIR Health does not advocate any particular policy. But we hope that presenting the facts about immigrants and health insurance will help individuals concerned about insurance and their access to care and will contribute to a better informed and healthier population. Every American woman who professes to believe in God has a responsibility to raise her voice in this election cycle and vote for a candidate who stands ready to restore America and that means American values as the strongest force for good and freedom that modern history has known. There is no doubt the womens vote will be the most sought after of all demographics since a woman is the nominee of a major party for the first time in history. But, most women I know are not so shallow as to vote for someone based on gender. They consider a number of factors when making an important decision based on a persons character and priorities. There can be debate and disagreement about Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton but little can be said about any Barack Obama legacy other than he rarely saw anything positive in America past or present. There was never any chance he would make America great again because he never thought America was ever great. Since the years Ronald Reagans Shining City on a Hill, there has been a steady decline in our national self-confidence and assertion that absolute rights and wrongs do not exist. Women of faith dont need a saint, but they want someone who will fight for them and their children and defend the honor of the nation. Trump respects American history and sees a clear path to a promising path for all Americans. He has lived the American dream and wants others to do the same. Americans rightly have a healthy skepticism concerning political matters, particularly the Republican Party. While the majority of Americans have dismissed the liberals and their party for some time, they have elected and then reelected Republicans who promised to be different, to reduce the size of government and make Washington work. They werent different and they joined right in with the rest of the despised political class. Donald Trump promises he will be different. His campaign has certainly been like no other we have ever seen. He speaks in understandable sentences even though, sometimes, he says something crude or offensive. In Washington, the only opportunities to hear something truthful is when a politician stands too close to a microphone he or she doesnt know is turned on. Then we get to hear the truth by accident. Not so with Donald Trump, he says the most controversial and provocative thing without hesitation in a loud voice to the throngs at his rallies. And most Americans find his off-the-cuff manner refreshing and a welcome break from the careful and timid mumbling of official Washington of both parties. Mr. Trump promises that we will be allowed to wish each other Merry Christmas! again in future Decembers and that political correctness will be discarded in favor of his common sense approach to governing. No more apologizing, particularly when we believe we are right! Some leadership in what calls itself the conservative movement expresses reservation and concern about Trumps conservative populism as if there is something disconcerting about a conservatism which is popular. It is ironic that most rank-and-file conservatives have abandoned the hand-wringing of their supposed leaders just as union members have. All the bow-tied pundits and think tank recluses are being lost in the dust of grassroots conservatives who are rallying to Trump. Evangelicals, and especially evangelical women, are the key. They are not the average voter. They are smart, they are well-informed and they love their families dearly and feel a strong connection with the country. Trump is not the lesser of two evils. He is an imperfect man who has sacrificed a very comfortable life making successful real estate deals from his high-rise penthouse. Instead, he is calling evil out and attempting to do what is right as he sees it. Im reminded of President Reagans promise that the best days of America always lie ahead. Optimism and hope in the country is critically important to restoring its greatness. What do women really want? They want leadership. They want a man who doesnt back down to the politically correct forces of the day. Something most politicians and even some ministers have done in recent years. Women of faith dont need a saint, but they want someone who will fight for them and their children and defend the honor of the nation. Donald Trump is a good man, a patriotic American and, maybe, the last hope for those of us who value rights given to us by God and recall fondly an America which cured diseases, built skyscrapers and stopped evil armies on the march. The Obama administration continues to drag its feet by refusing to release important information about the deal with Iran - information the American public wants and deserves. My organization, the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) filed Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests with the U.S. Department of State last month to get to the bottom of why the State Department deleted press briefing video footage that appeared to confirm that the Obama administration lied about its dealings with Iran. You can imagine what happened. Nothing. Predictably, theres only been silence from the State Department no response to our FOIA requests. That left the ACLJ with no choice but to go to federal court to file a lawsuit against the State Department demanding that it follow the law and provide key records shedding light on its cover-up of the Obama administrations Iran deal. Last month, Fox News Chief Washington Correspondent James Rosen reported that the U.S. Department of State had deleted a portion of its official video the portion containing the spokespersons acknowledgment to Rosen that the Obama administration had lied to the American public about when it began its secret bilateral talks with Iran. The timing is important because the Obama administration maintained it waited until after an allegedly more moderate regime was elected in 2013 before engaging Iran. This was part of its strategy in selling the Iran Deal to the American people and to Congress. At the Daily Press Briefing on December 2, 2013, Rosen asked spokesperson Jen Psaki if the talks had really begun as far back as 2011, as Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes recently admitted to the New York Times. Here is what Rosen said, referencing a prior press briefing in February 2013: QUESTION: about Iran. And with your indulgence, I will read it in its entirety for the purpose of the record and so you can respond to it. Rosen: There have been reports that intermittently, and outside of the formal P5+1 mechanisms, the Obama administration, or members of it, have conducted direct secret bilateral talks with Iran. Is that true or false? Nuland: We have made clear, as the Vice President did at Munich, that in the context of the larger P5+1 framework, we would be prepared to talk to Iran bilaterally. But with regard to the kind of thing that youre talking about on a government-to-government level, no. Thats the entirety of the exchange. Rosen followed up with a valiant attempt to get a straight answer. Finally: QUESTION: Let me try it one last way, Jen MS. PSAKI: Okay. QUESTION: and I appreciate your indulgence. MS. PSAKI: Sure. QUESTION: Is it the policy of the State Department, where the preservation or the secrecy of secret negotiations is concerned, to lie in order to achieve that goal? MS. PSAKI: James, I think there are times where diplomacy needs privacy in order to progress. This is a good example of that. . . . As Rosen reported, the official State Department video record of that Daily Press Briefing had been altered and that portion of the Briefing deleted. The administration originally claimed the deletion was a glitch but after receiving the ACLJs FOIA request and under increasing pressure from a skeptical media, it admitted the deletion was not a glitch, but was instead deliberate. Our FOIA requests and now lawsuit are aimed at finding out who in the Obama administration was involved in censoring an official State Department press briefing video to delete an embarrassing admission that the administration lied about its Iran deal negotiations. The ACLJ carefully crafted its requests to avoid arguable claims that the records we seek are exempted from disclosure. For example, the ACLJ did not seek sensitive records of the actual Iran negotiation, which would undoubtedly be withheld under the FOIA foreign affairs exemption. Instead, the ACLJ only requested records addressing the cover-up the decision to delete portions of the video and the decision to call it a glitch. FOIA provides no exemption for cover-ups. As the ACLJ alleges in the complaint: As of the date of this Complaint, [the State Department] has failed to produce any records responsive to the request, indicated when any responsive records will be produced, or demonstrated that responsive records are exempt from production. Sadly, the FOIA foot-dragging in this case is symptomatic of an administration which promised to be the most transparent in history while in reality it is anything but transparent. A new study by the Associated Press released a new analysis of government data and the results are stunning. The Obama administration set a record for the number of times its federal employees told disappointed citizens, journalists and others that despite searching they couldn't find a single page requested under the Freedom of Information Act, the AP reported. And heres the unbelievable finding: the Obama administration denied 77 percent of FOIA requests in 2015 a new record and an increase of 12 percent since the presidents first year in office. According to the AP: In more than one in six cases, or 129,825 times, government searchers said they came up empty-handed last year. Such cases contributed to an alarming measurement: People who asked for records under the law received censored files or nothing in 77 percent of requests, also a record. In the first full year after President Barack Obama's election, that figure was only 65 percent of cases. The AP analysis covered some 100 federal agencies. And its clear the failure to comply with such FOIA requests is widespread among many agencies. The FBI couldn't find any records in 39 percent of cases, or 5,168 times. The Environmental Protection Agency regional office that oversees New York and New Jersey couldn't find anything 58 percent of the time. U.S. Customs and Border Protection couldn't find anything in 34 percent of cases. Astonishing. So, for all intents and purposes, it appears the policy inside the Obama administration just ignore the FOIA requests, or if you do respond, provide censored information. This is a horrible track record for an administration that continues to insult the American people by claiming it is the most transparent administration in history. This incident involving the Iran deal is not the only time the Obama administration has scrubbed records to conform them to fit its narrative. This spring, reports surfaced that the White House had manipulated video to delete the French presidents reference to Islamist terror, and just this month, the administration censored the Orlando 911 transcript to delete Omar Mateens pledge of allegiance to the Islamic State and translate Allah to God. The ACLJ recently submitted FOIA requests to obtain records showing who was behind the decision to censor the 911 transcript and the reasons for the censorship. This administrations track record in courts which have repeatedly slapped down executive power grabs, foul play, unreasonable positions, and even bald-faced misrepresentations is not good. The ACLJ is prepared to litigate this new FOIA lawsuit in order to enforce the rule of law and shed light on this shameful cover-up. The manipulation, the hiding, has to stop. The ACLJs legal team intends to hold this administration accountable by bringing these very troubling facts to light. The law protects the right to know. Thats exactly why the ACLJ has taken the Obama administration to court so the American people can find out the truth behind President Obamas deal with Iran. Attorney General Loretta Lynch met privately with former President Bill Clinton in Arizona on Tuesday, but Ms. Lynch told reporters that the two didnt discuss the investigation into his wifes email use as secretary of state. Ms. Lynch said at a press conference that the Clinton meeting was unplanned. Mr. Clinton was apparently waiting to fly out of the Phoenix airport when Ms. Lynchs plane coincidentally landed there. The former president then walked over to the attorney generals plane to speak to Ms. Lynch and her husband. Our conversation was a great deal about his grandchildren. It was primarily social and about our travels, Ms. Lynch told reporters in Phoenix on Tuesday. We talked about former Attorney General Janet Reno, for example, whom we both know, but there was no discussion of any matter pending for the department or any matter pending for any other body. There was no discussion of Benghazi, no discussion of the State Department emails, by way of example, she said. The two did discuss the recent vote in the U.K. to leave the European Union, but the Justice Department isnt involved in that issue, she said. An aide to Bill Clinton said no topics were discussed beyond what was described by Ms. Lynch. A spokesman for Hillary Clintons presidential campaign didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. But others suggested the meeting could send the wrong message. Its probably ill-advised because it does create the appearance of impropriety, said Ken Sukhia, a former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida who is now running for Congress as a Republican. You dont necessarily have to talk about the subject to garner some good will [from prosecutors] by having that kind of conversation. Mr. Clinton nominated Ms. Lynch as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, a position she held from 1999 to 2001. Click for more from The Wall Street Journal. Canadian lawmakers directed chants of "Four more years!" toward President Barack Obama Wednesday as he wrapped up the first speech to Parliament by an American leader in 21 years. Obama was also greeted with a lengthy standing ovation, which prompted the president to joke that he should just "shut up and leave." After the applause died away, Obama spoke for nearly an hour and gave an unusually politically charged address. He appeared to criticize Donald Trump without ever mentioning the presumptive Republican nominee's name. Discussing opposition to globalization, Obama said that "politicians, some sincere and some entirely cynical, will tap [into] anger and fear, harkening back to days of order [and] national glory, arguing we must build walls, disengage, rid ourselves of immigrants to regain control of our lives." After hitting Trump earlier in the day over his opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, Obama urged the Canadian Parliament to pass the deal, saying "it is tempting to draw a line around our borders that will give us more control. One problem: restricting trade or giving in to protectionism in this 21st century economy will not work." Obama also turned a restatement of his endorsement of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton into a call for equal pay for women, saying, "our work won't be finished until all women are truly equal - paid equally, treated equally, given same opportunities as men." Fox News' Lesa Jansen and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Syndicated columnist Charles Krauthammer said Wednesday on Special Report with Bret Baier that as both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have expressed concerns about the Trans-Pacific Partnership and trade deals more generally, our allies have a lot to lose come 2017. If the Republicans are now abandoning free trade, for the first time ever in our memory, we're having a presidential campaign where neither side is for free trade, Krauthammer said, adding, Which I think bodes really badly for our allies abroad, the Australians, the Canadians, the Mexicans. Krauthammer went on to describe how a more narrow trade policy could impact allies like our neighbors to the south. Imagine the Mexicans looking at the cancellation of NAFTA, what effect it would have on them, he said, concluding, [Our allies] always assumed the United States would be the one country that would rise above the most narrow, economic nationalism, and save the idea of free trade. That's not going to be true come January 2017. And that will change the whole international landscape. The Senate approved a financial rescue package for Puerto Rico Wednesday, sending the measure to President Obama's desk two days before the island was to default on a $2 billion debt payment. The bipartisan 68-30 vote for passage came hours after senators voted 68-32 to move forward on the bill. The House passed the measure earlier this month. The White House and Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress had warned that without help from Washington, Puerto Rico would descend into economic chaos and a possible humanitarian crisis. Puerto Rico is in a decade-long recession and has $70 billion in debt. Thousands have fled the island and moved to the U.S. mainland as businesses have closed, schools have struggled with limited electricity and hospitals have asked for cash payment in advance for some medication. In a rare feat of election-year unity, all four Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress supported the bill, which would create a control board to oversee the U.S. territory's finances and supervise some debt restructuring. President Obama said after the vote that he would sign the bill and commended Congress for passing it. "This bill is not perfect, but it is a critical first step toward economic recovery and restored hope for millions of Americans who call Puerto Rico home," Obama said. The legislation would not provide any direct financial aid to the territory, but leaders warned that a bailout could eventually become necessary if Congress doesn't take this step. "If we don't act before the island misses a critical debt payment deadline this Friday, matters will only get worse -- for Puerto Rico and for taxpayers," warned Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. The control board would be similar to one that oversaw the District of Columbia in the late 1990s. Its seven members would oversee negotiations with creditors and the courts over reducing some debt. In addition to creating the board, the bill would require the territory to create a fiscal plan and fund public pensions, which the Puerto Rico government has shorted by more than $40 billion. Gov. Alejandro Garcia Padilla said that with passage of the bill, "we are starting to take the island back from creditors and giving it to Puerto Ricans." He has warned the U.S. territory would face multiple lawsuits if the bill is not approved, especially following Friday's anticipated default on $1 billion in general obligation bonds. The legislation would temporarily block creditor lawsuits from being filed until February 2017. The general obligation bonds are backed by the island's constitution, but Garcia has said the government has no money to honor that debt despite the implementation of new taxes and recent increases in utility rates. Garcia hasn't said if the island will default on the other $1 billion that is due. "Puerto Rico cannot endure any more austerity," Garcia said in an editorial published Wednesday. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew visited Capitol Hill on Tuesday in a bid to persuade some reluctant Democrats concerned that the board would be too powerful. Democrats have also opposed a provision that would allow the island's government to lower the minimum wage for some younger workers. Lew urged senators to vote for the bill even though it isn't perfect, saying that if the island defaults, the government may be forced to shut public transit, close a hospital or send police officers home. Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., was staunchly opposed to the bill, monopolizing the Senate floor for more than four hours Tuesday evening, arguing that the bill adopts a colonial approach. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., also opposed it. "In my view we need austerity not for the people of Puerto Rico, but for the billionaire Wall Street hedge fund managers who have exacerbated the crisis on the island," Sanders said on the floor. In the days before the vote, some bondholder groups worked to turn senators against the bill, arguing it doesn't sufficiently protect creditors and is tantamount to a bailout for the territory. Several labor unions also lobbied against the measure, arguing that a lower minimum wage could take money out of the Puerto Rican economy. The legislation is needed because Puerto Rico cannot declare bankruptcy under federal law. Mainland municipalities and their utilities can, while municipalities and utilities in Puerto Rico cannot. Some Republicans who opposed the bill said the bill could set a bad precedent for financially strapped states. "They'll say, `if a territory can receive unprecedented authority from Congress, then why shouldn't a state?"' said Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The Democratic Party may be divided, but Hillary Clinton has the president of France on her side. French leader Francois Hollande, in a newspaper interview on Thursday, urged American voters to back Clinton and warned that electing Republican Donald Trump would be dangerous and complicate relations between Europe and the U.S. "The best thing the Democrats can do is to get Hillary Clinton elected," Hollande told the French financial daily Les Echos, according to a translation by Politico. The French socialist's support isn't necessarily the kind of endorsement Trump is angling for -- and he's hardly the first world leader to level criticism at the billionaire businessman. According to a translation by AFP, Hollande went so far as to draw a comparison to the unexpected result in last weeks Brexit decision. Those who say that Donald Trump could not possibly become the next president of the United States are the same ones who thought that Brexit would never be voted in," he said. Hollande also criticized Trump for his use of slogans that appeal to the extreme right in Europe and in France. Hollande has not announced whether he intends to seek re-election, but is currently trailing behind right-wing National Front leader Marine Le Pen in recent polls. The overseas endorsement likely will have little impact on American voters and may be directed to his domestic audience. While Hollande did break with standard diplomatic practice by weighing in on the U.S. election, it would be not be first time a French president backed a Democratic candidate. In 2008, then-President Nicolas Sarkozy effusively embraced Barack Obama, wished him good luck and said, "If he is chosen, then France will be delighted. And if it's somebody else, then France will be the friend of the United States of America." Attorney General Loretta Lynch took bipartisan heat Thursday after it was revealed she held a meeting earlier this week with former President Bill Clinton, amid the FBIs investigation into Hillary Clintons email use as secretary of state. Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, in an interview with Fox News Sean Hannity airing at 10 p.m. ET on Thursday, said he was flabbergasted by the meeting. When I first heard that yesterday afternoon, I actually thought they were joking. ... I said no way, it's just no way that's going to happen, he said. And, it happened. I am just, I'm flabbergasted by it. I think it's amazing, I've never seen anything like that before. Democratic Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, a Clinton supporter, said Thursday Lynch should have steered clear. He told CNN the meeting sends the wrong signal. Lynch, though, told reporters the discussion at a Phoenix airport on Tuesday did not involve the FBI investigation. She said the meeting in which the two talked a great deal about his grandchildren and their travels -- was unplanned and happened while the former president was waiting to depart and walked over to the attorney general's plane after she landed there. There was no discussion of any matter pending before the department or any matter pending before any other body. There was no discussion of Benghazi, no discussion of the State Department emails, by way of example, she said. The exchange comes as the FBI is investigating the potential mishandling of sensitive information that passed through the server Clinton, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, used for personal and government correspondence as secretary of state. Republicans have called for an independent prosecutor, saying the Justice Department under a Democratic president should not be investigating a Democratic presidential candidate. Conservative watchdog group Judicial Watch called for the DOJ Office of the Inspector General to investigate what it called an "outrageous abuse of the publics trust." Lynch, in a later meeting with reporters in Los Angeles, deflected questions about whether the meeting was appropriate -- or created an appearance of impropriety -- given the investigation. She noted that the investigation is being conducted by career investigators and agents "who always follow facts and the law." Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, asked about the meeting, on Thursday defended the attorney general's actions, saying no one can question Lynch's ethics. But David Axelrod, a former adviser to President Obama, said on Twitter that he takes Lynch and the ex-president "at their word that their convo in Phoenix didn't touch on probe. But foolish to create such optics." Hillary Clinton has not been interviewed by the FBI, but the Justice Department's yearlong probe into the email server appears to be nearing a conclusion. Clinton has said that her decision to rely on a private server was a mistake but that other secretaries of state had also used personal email addresses. The matter was referred for investigation last July by the inspectors general for the State Department and intelligence community following the discovery of emails that they said contained classified information. Fox News Matthew Dean, Dan Gallo, Kara Rowland and The Associated Press contributed to this report. A New Jersey limo driver pleaded guilty Wednesday to helping funnel $80,000 in foreign contributions to President Obamas 2012 fundraising committee -- part of a scheme that allegedly helped a top Albanian socialist politician meet the president. Reuters reported that Bilal Shehu admitted he knowingly and willfully made foreign donations in violation of the law. While prosecutors did not identify the source of the donations, a Republican congressman called in 2013 for investigations into the purchase of two $40,000 tickets for a fundraiser in San Francisco by Shehus family. One of those tickets was used by Edi Rama then the Albanian Socialist Party leader and now the prime minister of the country. At the 2012 event in San Francisco, Rama was photographed with Obama. The congressman who called for the probe, Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Calif., said the image was used by Rama to imply he had a good relationship with Obama, helping Rama win the election and become prime minister. Shehu, a U.S. citizen, admitted he received an $80,000 wire transfer from a foreign source, knowing he was going to give it to the Obama committee. Reuters reported the foreign national was denied entry into the event but was allowed to be photographed with the president. Shehu could face up to five years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines. Prosecutors say no one on the committee has been accused of wrongdoing. Click for more from Reuters. The State Department has sought to delay the court-ordered release of emails between four of Hillary Clinton's top aides and officials at the Clinton Foundation and a closely associated public relations firm. The motion, filed in federal court by the Justice Department late Wednesday, seeks to put off the release of the emails by 27 months. It was first reported on by The Daily Caller. In the filing, the State Department says it originally estimated that approximately 6,000 emails and other documents were exchanged between the aides identified as former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Michael Fuchs, former Ambassador-At-Large Melanne Verveer, Chief of Staff Cheryl Mills, and Deputy Chief of Staff Huma Abedin and the Clinton Foundation and Teneo Holdings, a communications shop that former President Bill Clinton helped launch. However, the State Department said that due to errors in the initial document search, the number of "potentially responsive documents" was in fact more than 34,000. The department estimated that it had more than 13,000 pages still left to review. U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras had previously ordered the State Department to release the requested documents by July 21. If the State Department request is granted, the emails would not be released until October 2018, nearly halfway through the first term of a potential Hillary Clinton presidency. The documents are being sought by the conservative nonprofit group Citizens United. "The American people have a right to see these emails before the election," Citizens United President David Bossie told The Daily Caller, adding that the delay was "totally unacceptable." The motion was filed two days after Attorney General Loretta Lynch met Bill Clinton at the Phoenix airport. Lynch denied the meeting was anything other than a chance encounter, but Republicans and Democrats have criticized her for at least creating the appearance of a conflict of interest in the midst of a federal investigation into Hillary Clinton's time as America's top diplomat. On Thursday, State Department spokesman John Kirby cited a surge in Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in explaining the State Department extension request. "The Department handles FOIA in an entirely nonpartisan manner," Kirby said. The former secretary of state has come under scrutiny over whether she used her position to aid corporate and foreign government donors to the Clinton Foundation. In addition, Abedin worked as an employee at Teneo while simultaneously working at the State Department while Mills held a position at the Clinton Foundation while also serving in the State Department. Both matters have been flagged by Congress as possible conflicts of interest. Fox News' Jennifer Griffin and Matt Dean contributed to this report. Click for more from The Daily Caller. The attorney general of the U.S. Virgin Islands withdrew his subpoena of oil giant Exxon Mobil on Wednesday afternoon, dealing the first setback to a group of Democratic officials seeking racketeering charges against the company. Exxon told a federal court that AG Claude Walker had agreed to walk away if the company would drop a related lawsuit alleging that the subpoena violated its constitutional rights and the laws of its home state of Texas. Walker was the third state attorney general, after New York and Massachusetts, to subpoena Exxon Mobil over allegations that it committed fraud and racketeering by misleading customers and shareholders about the risks of climate change. Walker is the first to walk back the effort against Exxon, but he is also in litigation in Washington, D.C., over a separate subpoena sent to a libertarian nonprofit that received donations from Exxon more than a decade ago. Both subpoenas have triggered legal action. In a federal lawsuit filed three weeks after it was subpoenaed, Exxon alleged that Walkers subpoena violated its rights under the First, Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, the Texas Constitution, and Texas common law. District Judge Ed Kinkeane ordered Exxon and Walker to meet no later than July 11 to discuss the possibilities for a prompt resolution of the case. Exxons filing notified the court that theyd reached an agreement to withdraw both the subpoena and the resulting lawsuit. Click for more from The Washington Free Beacon. Donald Trump has broken with the Republican Party. Not in terms of renouncing his party label. Not in terms of joint fundraising. Not in terms of the Cleveland convention, although many GOP luminaries will be staying away, including the only two living Republican ex-presidents. No, Trump is parting company with decades of Republican religion on free tradeand that dramatizes how he is a different kind of nominee with an appeal to many working-class Democrats. (And by the way, the new Quinnipiac poll showing him trailing Hillary Clinton by just 2 points may or may not be an outlier, but it has upset the conventional media wisdom that she has a huge lead and hes hanging on by his fingernails.) Ive been arguing for a year that Trump is serving a mixed ideological buffet that includes some moderate and even liberal fare. This is why many traditional GOP conservatives oppose him, but its also why he exerts a strong pull on white working-class Democrats. And its why Trump has been openly urging Bernie Sanders supporters to get behind him. Its certainly not because of his stance on social issues. The Supreme Court disappointed conservatives this week by striking down a Texas law that had forced many of the states abortion clinics to close, and the Trump campaign made no comment. Trump has also taken the classic Democratic stance on making no changes to Social Security and Medicare, despite growing concern that these entitlement programs eventually face insolvency. But trade is emerging as one of Trumps signature issues. He has always hit hard against trade with China, but he tied together many economic threads in a scripted speech this week, denouncing global trade as a rape of our country. And the media sat up and took notice. Politicos lead: Donald Trump doubled down on economic populism and protectionism in a speech Tuesday, effectively taking conservative orthodoxy on free trade and tossing it onto the trash pile rising behind him. The Washington Post put it this way: Donald Trump on Tuesday channeled more than a years worth of fiery and freewheeling protectionist rhetoric into an uncharacteristically disciplined address, putting him out of step with decades of conservative economic orthodoxy and even some of his own prior positions. Among other things, Trump challenged Clinton to oppose passage of the Trans-Pacific Partnership in any forma point reinforced in an email to reporters yesterday: Clinton now weakly says she only has issues with the TPP currently...in its current form, politician-speak for saying she will approve it at the very earliest opportunity. This is a strong issue for Trump for a variety of reasons. A good chunk of the American public believes were getting screwed by bad trade deals. Unlike on other issues, such as abortion, Trump has been consistent on the subject, even criticizing Japanese trade back in the 1980s. They dump the cars and the VCRs and everything else, he told David Letterman. And it is a prickly issue for Clinton. Her husband pushed through NAFTA back in 1993with the help, it is often forgotten, of many congressional Republicans. Clinton strongly supported the TPP as secretary of State. And yet, under pressure from Sanders, she backed away from that trade pact during the primaries, expressing various reservations without totally abandoning it. The Democrats, who champion labor unions, have always been conflicted on trade, since it costs some of their supporters jobs as factories and production move abroad. But the Republicans have been staunch supporters of free trade, as Mitt Romney was in 2012. And thats why the Chamber of Commerce immediately criticized Trumps speech, insisting that contrary to rumor, the benefits of trade greatly outweigh the costs. Donald Trump is not a Chamber of Commerce Republican. That should be clear by now. His stances on immigration and terrorism tend to be divisive, but his position on trade reinforces his argument that the system is rigged against average Americans. The media seemed mainly amused by the fact that Trump delivered his speech in front of a wall of garbage. But this is far from a garbage issue for his campaign. Ancient Mars was even more Earth-like than scientists had thought, a new study suggests. NASA's Curiosity rover has detected high concentrations of manganese oxide minerals in Red Planet rocks, suggesting that the Martian atmosphere contained more oxygen billions of years ago than it does today, researchers said. "The only ways on Earth that we know how to make these manganese materials involve atmospheric oxygen or microbes," study lead author Nina Lanza, a planetary scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, said in a statement. "Now we're seeing manganese oxides on Mars, and we're wondering how the heck these could have formed." Since there's no evidence that life has ever existed on Mars, Lanza and her colleagues are leaning toward the atmospheric-oxygen explanation. The Martian manganese oxides could have formed via the interaction of rock with liquid water in oxidizing conditions, Lanza said. Observations by Curiosity and other Mars spacecraft have shown that liquid water was abundant on Mars, at least in some places, billions of years ago. But where did the atmospheric oxygen come from? Lanza and her colleagues speculate that the gas began building up shortly after Mars' global magnetic field shut down around 4.2 billion years ago. The loss of the magnetic field led to the stripping of Mars' atmosphere (which was once quite dense but is now just 1 percent as thick as that of Earth at sea level) by the solar wind. Additionally, without this magnetic field, high-energy ionizing radiation could reach the Martian surface, researchers said. This radiation then split many of the water molecules on the surface into their constituent hydrogen and oxygen atoms. The extremely light hydrogen zoomed off into space, but Mars' gravity held onto the heavier oxygen, which accumulated. Then, over the past few billion years, the oxygen levels declined significantly, the idea goes. (Oxygen currently makes up just 0.1 percent of Mars' air, which is more than 95 percent carbon dioxide.) "It's hard to confirm whether this scenario for Martian atmospheric oxygen actually occurred," Lanza said. "But it's important to note that this idea represents a departure in our understanding for how planetary atmospheres might become oxygenated." In particular, the idea suggests that atmospheric oxygen is not a rock-solid "biosignature," or indicator of life, since high concentrations of the stuff can apparently accumulate via abiotic processes. Curiosity landed inside Mars' 96-mile-wide (154 kilometers) Gale Crater in August 2012. The car-size rover detected the manganese oxides using its ChemCam instrument, which fires a laser at rocks and then analyzes the resulting vaporized bits. The new study has been accepted for publication in the journal Geophysical Research Letters. About 99 million years ago, a hummingbird-size bird likely fought for its life after getting stuck in a glob of tree resin, but it couldn't tear itself away and eventually died, leaving its feathers to mummify in what became a lump of amber, a new study finds. The soft resin even captured evidence of the bird's wriggling and writhing in an effort to free itself. "There appear to be claw marks in the resin, which would suggest a struggle," said co-lead study researcher Ryan McKellar, a curator of invertebrate paleontology at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum in Canada. Another preserved wing found in the clump of amber "appears to be a severed limb that may have been torn off by a predator, or may have floated free from the rest of the corpse due to resin flows," McKellar told Live Science in an email. "The broken end of the bone is fully encapsulated in amber." Both wing fragments are only a few centimeters in length, and are likely from the same species of ancient bird, the researchers said. Moreover, the findings are the first concrete examples of follicles, feather tracts and bare skin from Cretaceous period birds, they said. Lida Xing, the study's other co-leader and a lecturer at the China University of Geosciences in Beijing, discovered the specimens at an amber market in Kachin State, Myanmar, in 2015. Delighted at the find, the researchers got right to work, studying the mummified feathers with microscopes and X-ray micro-computed tomography (CT) scanning a technique that's similar to a medical CT scanner but with more magnification power to see the underlying tissue and bones, McKellar said. "The work with microscopes under a wide range of lighting conditions allowed us to examine the feathers, claws and skin seeing minute details of the feathers and their pigmentation," McKellar said. Ultraviolet (UV) light also helped them see flow lines within the amber, indicating how the tree resin moved before it solidified, and figure out how the wings had become trapped, he said. Their analyses indicate that the two birds belonged to the enantiornithines, a group of ancient birds that had teeth and whose skeletal anatomy differed within the pectoral girdle and ankle regions from modern birds. Furthermore, the two specimens had adult-like feathers even though they were juveniles, McKellar said. Most fossilized feathers are compressed, 2D remains preserved in sedimentary rock, making this finding all the more extraordinary, McKellar said. "This is the first time that feathers have been found alongside skeletal material in Mesozoic [dinosaur-age] amber," McKellar said. "We also get to see traces of pigmentation that would not be visible in the more common compression fossils, he added. For example, the researchers noticed "a pale spot and band on the upper surface of the wings, and a pale or white underside of the wings," he said. This isn't the first time McKellar has studied mummified feathers. In 2011, McKellar and his colleagues published a study in the journal Science on 80-million-year-old feathers preserved in Canadian amber, although outside experts told Live Science that it was unclear whether the specimens were from a bird or a dinosaur. The new study was published online today (June 28) in the journal Nature Communications. Original article on Live Science. ALBANY, N.Y. The shipwreck of a Canadian schooner that sank off Lake Ontario's central New York shore nearly 150 years ago has been discovered, a team of underwater explorers announced Wednesday. Jim Kennard, Roger Pawlowski and Roland Stevens said they recently found the wreck of the Royal Albert in deep water off Fair Haven, 35 miles northwest of Syracuse. The western New York-based team said the 104-foot vessel was carrying 285 tons of railroad iron that shifted in rough conditions, bursting the ship's seams. The crew survived the August 1868 sinking by getting into a small boat and making it to shore. The wreck was found in mid-June using side-scan sonar, Kennard said. Video images taken by a remotely-operated vehicle helped identify the wreck as the Royal Albert, the only two-masted schooner known to have sunk off Fair Haven, he said. Built in 1858 in Oakville, Ontario, the schooner departed Oswego on Aug. 9, 1868, headed to Toledo, Ohio, on Lake Erie, via Canada's Welland Canal. Kennard said the Royal Albert was only a few miles into its westward voyage when lake conditions turned rough, causing the cargo to shift and break apart the hull. The crew barely had time to scramble into a small boat as the ship sank, he said. Video of the wreck shows both masts toppled over and some of the railroad rails can be seen in the aft hold, Kennard said. While the discovery isn't as significant as some of the many others the New York team has made during Lake Ontario explorations in recent years, Kennard said the find offers a glimpse into shipping methods and manifests in the post-Civil War period. "It's essentially typical of how goods were being shipped and the kind of goods being shipped," he said. "The heavier commodities couldn't be shipped through the canals on canal boats." An age-discrimination lawsuit filed by two people who interviewed unsuccessfully for jobs at Google could expand to encompass other individuals if a motion filed this week is successful. The motion for conditional certification of collective action status was filed in a San Jose federal court Wednesday. Computerworld reports that the motion, which is similar to a class action, aims to include all individuals who interviewed in-person for any software engineer, site reliability engineer, or systems engineer position with Google in the United States in the time period from August 13, 2010 through the present; were age 40 or older at the time of interview; and were refused employment by Google. The motion seeks to make the case opt-in, giving other parties the option to join an age-discrimination lawsuit filed against Google last year. The anti-discrimination suit was filed last year by Robert Heath and alleges that Google engaged in a systematic pattern and practice of discriminating against individuals (including Mr. Heath) who are age 40 and older in hiring, compensation, and other employment decisions. In February 2011 Google did not hire Heath, who was then 60, for a software engineer position he had applied and interviewed for, according to the suit. Heath had highly-pertinent qualifications and experience, and a Google recruiter even deemed him a great candidate, it added. Heath had a technical phone interview with Google for the role. Last year programmer Cheryl Fillekes joined Heaths suit. Fillekes, who is in her 50s, was invited for in-person Google interviews on four separate occasions but was not hired for any of the positions. Fillekes, who filed this weeks motion, has a doctoral degree in computational geophysics from the University of Chicago and has undertaken postdoctoral work at Harvard. Washington D.C.-based law firm Kotchen & Low is representing Fillekes in the case. We think that there are a whole host of folks who are qualified and did not receive a position at Google because of their age, Daniel Kotchen, a partner at the law firm, told FoxNews.com. If the court approves the motion filed this week, Google would be required to provide names and contact details for every applicant over 40 who had in-person interviews for software engineer, site reliability engineer or systems engineer jobs. The individuals would then be contacted and given the option to join the lawsuit, according to Kotchen. Fillekes motion identifies a number of other job applicants by initials, Computerworld reports. The motion will be heard in court on Nov. 10. Citing data from compensation research specialist Payscale, Heaths lawsuit claims that in 2013 the median age for a Google employee was 29. Heath is represented by San Francisco law firm Smith Patten. Dow Patten, a partner at the firm, told from FoxNews.com that Heath is seeking to join the motion for conditional certification, with a change to its scope. "It will expand the scope beyond those that were screened out during in-person interviews to include those who were screened out during telephonic technical interviews," he said. Heath's initial lawsuit will go to trial in July 2017. The median age for a computer programmer in the U.S. is 43, according to 2015 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A Google spokeswoman told FoxNews.com that the company doesnt comment on pending litigation. This is not the first time that a Silicon Valley heavweight has been accused of age discrimination. In 2011 an age discrimination lawsuit filed by former Google executive Brian Reid was settled for undisclosed damages. Former Twitter employee Peter Taylor filed a lawsuit against the San Francisco-based firm in 2014, alleging that he was fired for being too old. The case was settled last year. Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers Disney, in the wake of this months deadly alligator attack at one of its Florida resorts, is quickly removing gator references even cartoon depictions from park shows and displays, according to published reports. A 2-year-old Nebraska boy was snatched and killed by a gator at the Seven Seas Lagoon at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa on June 14, prompting the new anti-alligator policy, employees told the Miami Herald. So far these alligators have reportedly been written off at Disneys Magic Kingdom Park in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.: Louis, the trumpet-playing gator from The Princess and the Frog, is no longer part of the Friendship Faire Castle show. The Tic Toc Croc, who chases bad guy Captain Hook in Peter Pan, has been yanked from the Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom. And the Jungle Cruise boat ride no longer includes a corny one-liner from the captain telling parents to watch your children, or the crocodiles will, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Click for more from the New York Post. TripAdvisor has just announced the winners of its annual Travelers' Choice awards for the world's best amusement parks and water parks. For the second year in a row, Universals Island of the Adventure in Orlando nabbed the top spot as reviewers' favorite theme park. The Florida hotspot received top marks for its movie-themed islands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Later this summer, the park is set to open the highly anticipated thrill ride Skull Island: Reign of Kong-- which takes riders deep into the jungle home of the silver screen's most infamous primate. Orlando also retained its title as America's theme park mecca boasting seven of the top 10 parks. Discovery Cove, with aquatic explorations like Wind-Away River, ranks second on the list and Disney Worlds Magic Kingdom-- which is the world's most visited theme park-- rounds out the top three. Want to visit one of these winning parks but need more info? TripAdvisor has also compiled a list of the average one-day admission passes as well as local hotel room rates. Top 10 US amusement parks, ranked by TripAdvisor users 1. Universal's Islands of Adventure Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult $105, Child $100 2. Discovery Cove Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult and child $359 3. Magic Kingdom Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult $110, Child $104 4. Universal Studios Florida Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult $105, Child $100 5. Universal Studios Hollywood Los Angeles, California One-day admission: Adult $105, Child $99 6. Disney's Hollywood Studios Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult $102, Child $96 7. Disneyland Park Anaheim, California One-day admission: Adult $105, Child $99 8. Disney California Adventure Park Anaheim, California One-day admission: Adult $105, Child $99 9. SeaWorld Orlando Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult and child $79 10. Disney's Animal Kingdom Orlando, Florida One-day admission: Adult $102, Child $96 When to go? Based on average hotel prices from month to month, TripAdvisor also identified the most affordable time to travel to these popular parks. The travel site found that visitors can usually save around 20 percent by visiting these cities in the early fall season versus the scorching summer months. September generally offers tourists the lowest hotel rate. A Texas woman who fatally shot her two daughters did not target her estranged husband because she "wanted him to suffer" the memory of their deaths, a sheriff said Wednesday. Christy Sheats, 42, "had ample time" on Friday to shoot Jason Sheats after she called a family meeting at their home west of Houston, Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls said during a news conference. Jason Sheats, 45, thought his wife was going to discuss a possible divorce to the couple's daughters, Nehls said, but she instead shot Madison Sheats, 17, and Taylor Sheats, 22. The children and Jason Sheats ran outside, but Christy Sheats followed them out and shot her eldest daughter again. A responding officer later shot and killed her when she refused orders to drop her gun. Jason Sheats was not injured. "She accomplished what she set out to do, and that is to make him suffer," Nehls said, adding that Jason Sheats told investigators Tuesday about the sequence of events, details about the couple's crumbling marriage and Christy Sheats' bouts of depression. The tension among family members had grown recently when Taylor Sheats had argued with her mother about her boyfriend, whom she intended to marry, Nehls said. Christy Sheats wanted to ground her daughter and prevent her from seeing her boyfriend, while her husband had argued it was inappropriate to ground someone of Taylor's age. The sheriff's office released 911 calls this week that captured the panic in the neighborhood on Friday. In the first call, a woman is heard crying, "Please! Forgive me! Please! Don't shoot!" After a scream, she cries, "Please! I'm sorry!" and "Please! Don't point that gun at her!" Another woman is heard saying, "I promise you, whatever you want," before the call is disconnected. In a second call, a woman is heard saying, weakly, "She shot 'em." A neighbor during a third call describes the daughters lying in the street in front of their house. The neighbor describes Christy Sheats kneeling over her eldest daughter and shooting her. Nehls said that Christy Sheats' life appeared to unravel in 2012 following the death of her grandfather, who she saw as a mentor. Her mother died a few months later. Her grandfather gave her the .38-caliber handgun used to kill her daughters. Sheats had applied for a license to carry the gun but was denied, the sheriff said, adding that authorities are investigating why she was denied. She was admitted on three separate occasions to a private mental health facility and had been suicidal and suffered from depression. Sheats also had been unemployed since 2012 and her husband told investigators that at times she drank heavily. The couple had been married for more than 20 years and was from Alabama. Youre busy running your business. Youve got a ton of things to do each and every day. You know you need to work on your website, but something more important always keeps cropping up. Not only that, youve heard all these conflicting stories about what works and what can get you into trouble. Some people tell you that backlinks are important. Then you read that Google punishes websites with an unnatural link pattern. Whatever that is. Then you hear that Content is King. But what type of content and how do you find the time to create it anyway? Its no wonder you never seem to get round to making those changes. My company, Pickaweb works with thousands of B2B businesses and these are concerns that we hear them raising all the time. Thats why we conducted our own research into what separates the Best in Class B2B websites from the Industry Average. We studied over 440 Industry Average websites and compared them to 100 Best in Class Websites in the UK to identify where the major differences existed to identify where the Best in Class were getting the advantage. We looked at five specific industries: Accounting, Training Companies, Printers, Commercial Cleaners and Telemarketing Companies. The 100 Best in Class websites all achieved a top three ranking (Google Three Pack) in their local town based on desktop searches in their industry (e.g. Printer Birmingham). The Industry Average was a top three position 25 percent of the time. Related: The 'F-Word' in B2B Relationships We looked at a number of common SEO Factors (both on page, i.e. on your website, and 100 percent under your control and off page, i.e. outside of your website, and outside of your control). Weve prepared an Executive Summary, but here are the headlines: Best in Class use BOTH location and Industry in the page title of their home page 61 percent of the time, whereas the Industry Average was just 21 percent. Best In Class have an average of 44 external websites linking to them whereas Industry Average sites have just 17. Industry Average sites have half the number of Google reviews that Best in Class have (0.4 vs 0.93 on average). Industry Average sites have less than half the number of pages than Best in Class. The figure is 48 vs 104 respectively. So if you are determined to get a higher ranking then read on, because heres what you need to focus on. Embedded from Pickaweb 1. Get the SEO basics right. The data showed clearly that Best in Class were consistently getting the SEO basics right. That means using the right industry and location related keywords and including them where they matter -- in the metatags of their websites. Dont worry too much about the jargon. Whats important is that you understand that Google is a machine and it needs you to tell it exactly what it is you do on each and every page. The way that you achieve this is through the use of the keywords in your site. The general term for this code is metatags and you see them in the first two lines of the Google search results. The first one is called the Page Title and the second one is the Meta Description. The most important is the Page Title. Ideally it should be between 67 to 70 characters long. Any longer and it wont fit in the search results so keep an eye on this. Our research showed that Best in Class did two things consistently better than the Industry Average sites. First they included BOTH Industry AND Location in the Page Title. So if they are an Accountant based in Manchester they would have "Accountant" AND "Manchester" in the Page Title Element, i.e.: "Accountant in Manchester -- Offering Personal and Company Tax Advice". The other thing we identified about the Metatag was that Best in Class made use of the 67 to 70 character limit whereas the Industry Average did not. Best in Class averaged at 66 characters while the Industry Average sites used just 44 characters. These two factors are quite basic really but the difference between the two groups was quite significant statistically speaking. Finally, the data also showed that Best in Class paid better attention to the use of H1 Headings on the home page. If youre not familiar with Headings then think about when you create a document in Microsoft Word or Google docs. When you format the headings to better structure the page, its exactly the same thing. Headings are important because they give your web pages structure that helps Google "understand" the content better. There is a hierarchy of Headings and the H1 heading is the most important. SEO Best practice suggests that you should only use one H1 heading per page. Our research identified that Best in Class websites use an H1 heading on their homepage in 72 percent of instances whereas the Industry Average is 53 percent. Not such a major difference this time, but it does reinforce the impression that Best in Class are paying more attention to the details. Related: The Top 4 Basic SEO Principles That Increase Your Website Traffic 2. Go for the easy, quick links. Despite the fact that Google took the nuclear option on underhand and spammy link building techniques back in 2012, backlinks from external websites pointing to your site still have a major impact on your rankings. There is a debate going on amongst SEO Professionals about what constitutes underhand and what is acceptable. But if this argument goes over your head and you havent been involved in link building previously, then the chances are you have nothing to worry about. Generally the only people who need to be concerned are those who have been building links on an industrial scale with links from bad neighborhoods and low value link directories. When it comes to our study though it was clear that the number of backlinks was a major factor. We didnt even look at the number of links because a better measure is the number of Referring Domains (i.e. websites that link to a site) linking to a website. The reason for this is that some sites have site wide links on all pages on the footers or sidebars of websites linking to them. So we discounted total links and looked at Referring Domains. That way even if a site has one thousand pages with a link on every page to a website, that would only be counted as one Referring Domain. The results showed that best in Class averaged 44 Referring Domains whereas Industry Average sites get just 17 external websites (Referring Domains) linking to them. Getting local backlinks is not that difficult though. All you need is a planned, consistent approach and you can get them. Theres no need to go crazy trying to bridge the gap overnight though. The best place to start is with Name, Address and Phone (NAP) Citations. These are just links from recognized local listing websites like Yelp. These are as easy as filling in a form on the website. Some may be paid but usually they are worth it. Other easy wins are from your social media profiles and from your local listing with Google, Bing and Yahoo. Then look for links from local sites that send important local signals to Google. Do you use local suppliers? If so, offer them a testimonial and get a link back from them. Or maybe youre a member of a local business group or trade association. You must get these links, they are as easy as sending an email. What about your trade or industry? Are there specific websites that list you and your fellow businesses? Do you have a certification or accreditation from an industry recognized organization? These are all high quality links that can help you. Overall you just need to pace yourself and make a commitment to gather these links over a period of several months and youll notice the difference. 3. More Google reviews. Take a quick look at the local rankings. Do you notice something that the top ranking sites have in common? You got it. Theyve got more Google reviews. Now this comes with a health warning. Dont go crazy here. This is not the opportunity to start pleading with 500 customers to give you a review overnight. This is definitely something you need to introduce as a habit over time. If you go from zero to 50 reviews in a week then an alarm is going to go off somewhere in Google and you could find yourself on the receiving end of a penalty. And you definitely dont want that. A better way is to just approach your best customers initially and ask for a review. The chances are you know them well and theyre usually happy to oblige one of their favorite suppliers. Then once youve got a few you just need to stay ahead of the pack by getting into the habit of asking for reviews. Whens the best time to ask? When youve got a happy smiling customer in front of you. Related: How Online Customer Reviews Help SEO and Drive Sales Growth 4. Double down on content. As shown above, the number of pages was a significant difference between Best in Class and the Industry Average with 104 pages vs. 48 respectively. The thing is that Google does not tend to like "Thin" websites. It prefers websites with loads of relevant content and ones which add content on a regular basis. One thing that we often notice is that small business websites dont have much content. Thats a low number of pages and then not much content on each page. For example, many will have a "Services" page where they list the services they provide. A much better idea is to have a page for each service. Doing that in itself will probably double the number of pages of most websites. Then double down on the page length. Ideally try to make each page contain at least 500 words of text. If possible go to 1000 words. It can be done. Have a rummage around your hard drive and your outbox. Think about all of the presentations you have. All the emails youve sent with explanations. Think about the conversations you have with prospective or existing customers about your products or services. Youre an expert. You just need to get all of this useful information onto your website pages. Then make sure you link between your pages using the keywords as the links where possible. Again, links send important signals to Google about the content of a page or the page they are about to visit from a link. Once youve worked through your "money pages" you can turn your attention to a blog. A blog is your chance to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise. Google rewards websites that create content on a consistent basis over websites that are static. A blog section can be added using a free blogging platform like WordPress. In terms of content, this is your chance to shine. Use your experience to create content that would be of interest to your audience, i.e. your potential customers. Every question they have is an opportunity to create content. Once youve created content then you can repurpose it into another format whether its video or a presentation or a downloadable pdf. Conclusion. Our research leads us to conclude that the bar is set quite low in the UK B2B Sector. If you run a local B2B business or you are a web professional working in this market, then you have an opportunity to achieve a high ranking and get more business through your website. If you focus on four fundamental points: Running an agency is challenging. Senior management juggles everything -- sales, human resources, marketing and more. No matter how busy you get, however, you can't forget the most important aspect of your business -- your clients. Their needs must be met. The key is to create an experience that adds value to your clients. Its about building real relationships. Building strong client relationships is an integral strategy to improve your agencys bottom line," says Kerri Molitor, editor of Anchor and marketing generalist at Liquid Web. "Its a well-known fact that acquiring new clients costs more than growing business opportunities with repeat clients." Here are five ways to improve the client experience. 1. Create a client experience strategy. Most companies are driven by strategy. They produce branding plans and execute acquisition policies. But what about a client experience strategy? Documenting your clients journey is critical to understanding how to serve their needs. We use Google Sheets to keep tabs of new micro-goals we're internally setting for our clients that all make sure they're showing progress to the goal the client knows about, says Johnathan Dane, founder of KlientBoost. Related: 7 Strategies to Revamp Your Customer Onboarding Some agencies work with medium to large businesses. Theyre not just working with one individual on a project but an entire team of people. Therefore, its crucial to possess a record of how to bring value at every stage of the project. It is the successful execution of individual parts of a project that contributes to its overall success. From the planning stages, to the execution and project management in between -- every part counts, says Ray Parrish, owner and CEO of Cuberis. Customize your client experience strategy to fit individual and organizational goals. 2. Identify client experience gaps. According to NewVoiceMedia, an estimated $41 billion is lost by American companies each year due to poor customer service. Whats missing from your client experience? Similar to a retail business, agencies should identify customer touchpoints. Touchpoints are how your brand engages with the client. That may include an onboarding email or a phone call from the account manager. Hall & Partners explored the state of the client/agency relationship. Their From Mad Men to Sad Men" study noted the following -- Think about how many people on the agency team, at all levels, communicate with the client. Now, count how many people are involved on the client side. Multiply that by every interaction -- every hour, day, week, month. It equals a huge number of interactions -- each a chance for miscommunication not only in in content but intent as well. The report also found three pain points destroying the relationship: Agencies do not understand their clients business. Agencies do not understand their clients customers. Agencies do not understand technology and innovation. Work with your team to identify ways to enhance communication and build rapport with your client. You also may need to educate your team about the clients industry. Your agency cant solve your clients problems with a broken relationship. Be proactive and learn how to identify gaps to improve your teams performance. 3. Push beyond business goals. Clients hire you to solve their problems. However, providing solutions is only one piece of the puzzle. Any hard-working agency can do that. We live in a relationship-driven economy. Clients expect you to earn their loyalty. To do so, push beyond the primary business goals. Think of other ways you can satisfy your clients. How can you help them reach secondary objectives? Related: 5 Easy Ways to Build More Business Relationships as an Entrepreneur Maybe introduce your client to a valuable contact. Provide a recommendation for the CEO to speak at a high-profile event. Or even mention your client in a press release. Consider non-business rewards. Send a gift during the holiday season. And send a thank you note for their continued support. Growth and development bring expansive thinking and expansive networks. Agencies that introduce their various clients to each other and to valuable strategic resources and promotional partners to benefit their clients and not themselves, are sexy, writes Lorraine Lockhart, founder of The Rojek Consulting Group. Surprise your client with something extra. They will appreciate the sentiment. 4. Conduct an external audit. Research shows that a typical business hears from about 4 percent of dissatisfied customers. Most agencies will report that their clients are happy. But its likely that the information is just based on the account managers opinion. No one wants to admit that clients are dissatisfied. The usual, dysfunctional process goes something like this -- assess if the clients goals are met, and ask the client if they are satisfied. If you want a real assessment of client satisfaction, conduct an external audit. Hire an outside firm or consultant to speak directly to your clients and to observe client interactions. Daryl Travis, CEO of Brandtrust, believes ad agencies are making a big mistake. They can neglect to invest in deep and thorough account planning to truly understand how their clients customers feel about the category and the brand," Travis said in a recent interview on docurated.com. "They tend to rely too much on intuition and opinion and not enough on actual insight. Uncover your clients actual thoughts and behaviors. Consult with an external resource to find the truth. 5. Focus on thought leadership. Forresters benchmark study detailed that 87 percent of marketers struggle to produce engaging content. They dont have a process for managing thought leadership marketing initiatives. Agencies must be forward-thinkers for their clients. Your team should be spotting trends and developing innovative opportunities. Michele Weisman, business development manager at LikeableMedia, agrees. But the true value of having an agency partner is making the brand feel uncomfortable in a good way," Wiseman says. "Its challenging them to think outside the box. Agencies should encourage account managers to share risky, off-the-chart concepts with clients. Bring them their next big idea! Related: 5 Dos and Don'ts of Thought Leadership Marketing Advocate for your agency to create thought leadership content. That may include white papers, research studies or even ebooks. Creating thought leadership pieces and providing them to your clients not only reflects positively on your knowledge of the industry, but it also arms your clients with the ability to answer questions...This makes them look good in front of their peers, writes Justin Freid, vice president of emerging media at CMI Media. Challenge your clients to be better. Push them into the future. Upgrade the client experience. Your agency is tackling a wide range of issues. However, the client experience is vital for the success of your business. Develop a client experience strategy. Identify ways to improve the relationship. And conduct an external audit to gain more insight. Treat your clients well. Its time to upgrade the experience. The workplace is full of incidents where people are terrorized by their boss but kowtow to them and even justify and defend their dissonant behavior. "Psychology Today" and others view this form of workplace hostage-taking through the lens of the Stockholm Syndrome (sometimes called Corporate Stockholm Syndrome). The Stockholm Syndrome is named after a hostage-taking incident that took place in Norrmalmstorg Square, Stockholm on Aug., 23, 1973 where an attempted robbery at Kreditbanken resulted in four people being held hostage for six days. The striking feature of this crisis was how the hostages started to bond with their captors; showing sympathy, empathy and even sexual attraction toward them. An extreme example of this occurred in the recent hijacking of an EgyptAir flight, where British hostage Ben Ines posed for a selfie next to a sedate looking hijacker Seif Eldin Mustafa who had a fake suicide belt strapped to his waist. I have personal experience of Corporate Stockholm Syndrome. I was working for an international corporation where my recruiter was my boss and my main champion and support. After three years in the department, I felt it was time for a change and I started signaling that I was ready for my next internal move. My boss did not take kindly to this and a hostage situation developed as my boss banned me from looking for other internal roles, isolated me from senior management, micromanaged my performance as a way of asserting control, openly discredited me in front of colleagues and threatened to kill my future career if I showed disobedience. My response was to try to appease and accommodate my hostage-taker. Related: The 6 Most Familiar 'Bad Boss' Types and What to Do About Them Effectively, I was being infantilized by my boss. In an interview with Frank Ochberg, who helped define the nomenclature Stockholm syndrome, he theorizes what he terms the infantilization of the hostages where the captor controls every aspect of the captives existence during a crisis from permission to use the toilet to the distribution of food and water and decisions concerning death and punishment. This relates back to the workplace. Bosses who hold their staff hostage are infantilizing them -- they are controlling every aspect of their work. This can be advantageous when you are new to a role and need your hand held but it can go dreadfully wrong if you displease the boss or want to break away from the parental nest -- it can trigger a hostage crisis where the boss seizes, isolates, monitors and brings the infant back to a state of dependency and parental control. Of course, there is a world of difference between being held captive in the workplace and being held captive in a real-life hostage scenario -- your boss is not literally heisting you on the second floor photocopying room threatening to kill you. In the workplace, we oftentimes hold the gun to our own heads -- we allow ourselves to be infantilised, manipulated and threatened and we fail to acknowledge the choices we have. Victor Frankl talks of the last of the human freedoms -- to choose ones attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose ones own way. There are a number of choices open to us when we are held hostage in the workplace: 1. Sit it out. Choosing to do nothing and hoping to outlast it is an option. The problem with following this strategy is that you could be seen to be colluding with the hostage-taker which could reinforce and prolong the dissonant behavior. 2. Get on their good side. This is classic Stockholm Syndrome territory. Accommodating, sympathizing and seeking to understand your abductor will validate their controlling behavior and you will spend your entire assignment in a reinforcing loop: seeking approval from the parent boss who is infantalizing you by controlling every aspect of your working day. Related: How Successful People Overcome Toxic Bosses 3. Enlist the help of others. The thing about controlling bosses is that they intentionally isolate you from others; they want to manage everything about you, including your reputation. It is important to understand the political dimension of what is happening to you and build powerful allies and mentors. Michael Chang Wenderoth considers the importance of managing politics through network and alliances in his recent article. Be aware, your abductor will seek to block any alliance building. 4. Talk them out of it. One of the lasting regrets of people held hostage by their boss is the fact that they never spoke up. This regret can last many years. An effective strategy is to schedule a private meeting and have an adult-adult conversation, an honest dialogue with the boss detailing their behavior and the impact it is having on you. Directly naming the observable behavior and its impact is high risk but can lead to a cessation of hostilities. 5. Fight back. You can always make a formal complaint to senior management or the HR representative. In large organizations, the hierarchy tends to side with the supervisor so invest time in looking into the organizational track record of dealing with such complaints. There is always the option for formal legal proceedings if things cannot be resolved to your satisfaction but that should always be a last resort. Related: You Can Break Your Bad Boss Syndrome With a Charm Offensive 6. Walk away. Remember that nobody is holding a gun to your head. You always have the choice to resign, but do this after careful thought and planning and always have an exit strategy. The key is to maintain a dignified and professional attitude. Being held hostage by your boss is not a pleasant experience and many accommodate and even defend the abuse a la Corporate Stockholm Syndrome. Its important to remember that there are always alternative choices such as negotiation, retaliation or resignation. Such strategies, though not without risk, can lead to an early release. You might not know it, but Buzz Aldrin was rejected the first time he applied to NASAs astronaut program. Hed try again -- and make it -- but only to a backup crew. It took a freak accident to make room for him on Gemini 12s flight crew, where hed take the longest successful spacewalk of that time. Down-to-earth anecdotes like these comprise No Dream is Too High, Aldrins latest book, and an opportunity for the space pioneer to reflect on a lifetime of experiences, which include the Apollo 11 mission and eventually becoming the second man to walk on the moon. In the book, he reminds us of the power of luck and persistence -- and that any goal is attainable. We caught up with the 86-year-old astronaut and educator to get his take on whats needed for our next breakthroughs, big or small. Says Aldrin, well need both a commitment to curiosity and to mentoring those who can continue our work after us. This interview was edited and condensed. Entrepreneur: Lets talk about applying to the astronaut program. There was a point you thought it might not happen, yes? Aldrin: I read in Life Magazine a description of the Mercury program and that President Eisenhower thought astronauts should be trained as test pilots. But I had not [been trained as one]. The space program looked like it wouldnt be available to me. Entrepreneur: In your book, you talk a lot about luck, about how success is about being ready when opportunity comes. Aldrin: It's fascinating to think about. How lucky I was. My mother was born the year the Wright brothers flew an airplane. My father was an aviator. I grew up and fought WWII. [I was in the military and the space program]. Now I am pioneering people going to Mars. From the Wright brothers to Mars, that has all been part of my life, in a way. Entrepreneur: After the Apollo 11 mission, where did you find yourself? In your book, you mention struggling with normal life after the moon landing. Aldrin: I experienced depression. It was inherited. My grandfather attempted suicide, and my mother committed suicide the year before I headed to the moon. I wasnt productive, and my mind was clouded. I was given the command of the test pilot school. It really posed a major readjustment. As I was doing that, it just occurred to me, that is not the way I want to resume my Air Force career. I decided to retire at that point and see what else I could do. [At that point] I had disconnected myself from the Air Force and NASA. Entrepreneur: How did you get your bearings back? Aldrin: I thought about [how I could make a contribution] and the ways that I could reach out to help, to do better, with some development companies and think tanks. I decided to look at the continuous orbits between Earth and the moon. The [1975 Apollo-Soyuz Test Project] mission with the Soviets, [began] a legacy of cooperating with Cold War enemies, and survived the breakup of the Soviet Union. What followed that first mission in 1975, eventually led to the Shuttle program and International Space Station. Entrepreneur: In your book, you talk about legacy as going beyond oneself. Where does this stem from? Aldrin: Jimmy Doolittle, [a WII pilot famous for leading the 1942 attack on Tokyo, known as the Dolittle Raid, in response to Pearl Harbor], was a friend of my fathers. When my father died, Jimmy became a mentor, inspiring me to try and duplicate that [mentorship] with the astronauts, not just the twelve that landed on the moon. Entrepreneur: NASA recently received a record number of applications for this latest class of astronauts. What should they be thinking about? Aldrin: The ones that are being selected now will probably be [in their mid-twenties or early thirties] and theyre going to be too old maybe to get to Mars. But they will do a number of things in between, such as dress rehearsals for younger astronauts. Maybe in 2025 and 2030 and beyond, those will be the people who will be mature enough, trained enough to go to Mars, to assemble bases there the way we assembled bases at the moon. It's easy for me to think about humans going out [to Mars] but not coming back. But it is harder for other people. I predict it will be 2040 when they will land. Until then, we should be committing to permanence. We have to think ahead. Entrepreneur: It seems like theres more and more collaboration between public and private sectors in space exploration and even in other industries. Why is this collaboration so important for innovation? Aldrin: The government had to rely on the private sectors to carry out the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo program and then when they started building the shuttle system. The space station is still up there but we dont have a shuttle to go up there so we have to rely on the Russians, we have not been able to replace the shuttle with a smaller spacecraft, and its discouraging. What funds we do have are developing expensive but not really good rockets. The private companies, with government will start being able to take our people to the space station, the end of next year, 17 into 18. We need to build something to replace the International Space Station, helping other nations so we can lead those missions. Entrepreneur: What are you excited about? Aldrin: I learned to ski when I was 50, but havent skied for a year or two. I'd love to continue scuba diving but you cant just do that every day. But Im doing other things, like serving my country. Thats what I took an oath to do. I want to communicate something of value. [Hopefully people learn something] just by traveling along with me. A new report suggests police in Connecticut are more likely to use stun guns on minorities. Central Connecticut State University released its analysis Thursday of the first statewide data of police stun gun use in the United States. The report says Hispanics shot with stun guns by police in 2015 were more likely to be fired upon multiple times than other racial groups. Officers across the state fired their stun guns at 419 people last year. Nearly 300 people were injured and two died. In stun gun incidents involving Hispanics, 27 percent were shocked twice, compared with 18 percent of whites and 15 percent of blacks. When officers pulled out their stun guns, they fired them 60 percent of the time in confrontations involving whites, 81 percent of the time in those involving blacks and 66 percent of the time in those involving Hispanics. Police say a California man has been charged in New Hampshire with arranging a sexual encounter with a 14-year-old girl he met on Snapchat. Twenty-seven-year-old Jonathan Christy, of Placentia, faces a felony charge of certain uses of computer services prohibited. He was being arraigned Thursday afternoon. Court officials didn't immediately have information on bail or on whether he had a lawyer. Police say the Keene girl's mother reported her daughter's contact with Christy on May 11. A warrant was issued May 12. They say Christy bought the girl a cellphone. Police say Christy flew from California to New Hampshire and arranged to pick the girl up from school and take her to a motel. Police say Christy engaged in sexual acts with the girl there. Crowdfunding is an effective way to raise money for ventures. But what about the opportunity for all of us to become supporters of emerging companies and financially benefit from their growth? Until recently, individuals who were not wealthy did not meet the definition of an accredited investor, and were denied the chance to invest in private offerings. That hot tech company looking for funding? Sorry, you could not invest. Your neighborhood gourmet donut shop in need of growth capital? Nope, you were not allowed to buy their shares. However, the landscape has changed as sections of The JOBS ACT -- legislation intended to free up small business capital -- rolled out to the public over the past year. Related: Entrepreneurs Will Benefit Most From the New Era of Crowdfunding There are three ways this new legislation now allows everyday people to invest -- Intrastate Crowdfunding, Regulation Crowdfunding and Regulation A+ offerings. Intrastate Crowdfunding is available in 33 states and allows residents of these states to invest in companies headquartered in their state. Regulation Crowdfunding goes beyond the state level and allows investment into any company nationwide that is raising capital via an online, registered funding portal. Regulation A+ offerings bring opportunities to investors in multiple states and is a funding approach usually employed by companies that are further along in their growth cycle. However, all of these funding avenues limit the amount individuals are allowed to invest, in most cases this will probably fall between $2,000 to $5,000 a year per person. Related: Starting May 16, Entrepreneurs Can Raise Money in a Whole New ... But now that you can invest in and support your fellow entrepreneurs, should you? Yes and no. Given that 90 percent of start-ups fail its important to proceed with caution. It may be best to invest in an entrepreneur you know or business you frequent so there is a degree of familiarity and accountability. If you are unfamiliar with the venture, at least research the track record of the founder and team. Do they have the background and management skills to bring the product or service to market? Since the number one reason a start-up fails is because it makes a product no one needs, has there been market validation from customers for what the company is offering? Have you reviewed the financial projections and do they look realistic? What is the competitive landscape for their venture? Related: 7 Lessons They Don't Teach You In Crowdfunding School Given the hazards, how does one mitigate the risk and be positioned for a better return? Diversification. Having an abundance of capital on hand has afforded deep-pocketed Venture Capital investors the luxury of moderating risk by spreading their capital across a variety of private companies. Because of technological and legislative restraints, smaller retail investors have not had the same opportunity. Until now. New technology has emerged to make micro-investing affordable. Finally, smaller investors will be able to benefit from diversification strategies that are employed by institutions. Whether it is buying a $25.00 note on a peer lending portal, making a $100 investment via a Regulation Crowdfunding platform, or investing your spare change in your peer's business every time you shop, individual investors can finally spread their risk over multiple investments just like Venture Capitalists. As an industry insider said recently, "If you make 100 small bets, that's a portfolio. If you make one big investment, that's Vegas!" Over the past 30 years, early-stage venture capital has returned 21.29 percent, significantly out performing stocks and bonds. So investing in start-ups can be a great way to grow a portfolio while supporting dedicated entrepreneurs in the process. Just be sure to conduct your due diligence on the investment opportunity -- dont jump in based on hype or headlines -- and take the most cautious approach to investing in these innovators. Many veterans enjoy comfort, aid, and true bonding from their service dog. A specially-trained post-traumatic stress disorder service dog can interrupt agitation, wake a veteran from a traumatic nightmare, or perform a room search for a vet who suffers from hypervigilance. "He's put faith back into my way of looking at society," army veteran Joe Aguirre said of his dog, who is trained to "sweep" an area for potential threats. PTSD service dogs can also be a steady source of furry companionship, never leaving their beloved human alone with troubling thoughts. "It's hard to imagine the level of despair of someone who suffers from PTSD," said one Boston-area Gulf War veteran. "It's exhausting, frightening, and somewhat surreal -- you've come back from active duty, but you are in an internal war." This veteran feels his PTSD symptoms are "80 percent" managed -- but said he would have welcomed a PTSD service dog when he first returned home. A 2014 RAND study found that 20 percent of veterans of the Iraqi and Afghanistan conflicts have PTSD. With 2.7 million veterans in total from those wars, that means some 540,000 vets are dealing with the disorder. The VA does not pay for associated costs for training and obtaining a PTSD service dog. It will only pay for "evidence-based" therapies for PTSD -- such as cognitive processing. If a veteran needs a service dog for PTSD, he or she must fill out a complex application with a registered therapy dog nonprofit, then sit back and wait (and hope) for a four-legged companion. The training of each PTSD service dog takes over a year. "The dogs are specially bred for this work, [and are] with us for up to 18 months of highly specialized training, including nightmare and anxiety alerts," a representative of This Able Veteran, a PTSD service dog training academy in Carbondale, Illinois, told LifeZette in an email. "Veterans are brought to our facility from across the nation for three weeks for our trauma resiliency program." Just like with several other non-profits that train and match PTSD service dogs with those who have served, cost is not a worry for the waiting vet. "We fundraise to offset all of these expenses, so there is no charge to our veterans," the This Able Veteran rep said. The VA is now in the fourth year of a $12 million study to gauge the efficacy and costs of using dogs to help veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress. A veteran with a PTSD service dog will say, however, that the proof is in his or her ability to keep progressing in life after duty. Some question whether the dogs are being trained to meet VA protocols that could actually reinforce PTSD fears, such as teaching the animals to "sweep" and "block" a room. "He's put faith back into my way of looking at society," army veteran Joe Aguirre told The Associated Press of his dog Munger, who is trained to "sweep" an area for potential threats and "block" his owner from potential aggressors. The dog is essentially searching for "anything that would be out of the ordinary. A bag. A particular weapon. People acting erratic," Aguirre told the AP. Aguirre's four tours of duty left him struggling with daily life. The VA study has been beset by problems and criticism, the AP noted. Only 50 dogs, approximately, have been placed with veterans for the study, and some question whether the dogs are being trained to meet VA protocols that could actually reinforce PTSD fears, such as teaching them to "sweep" and "block" a room for threats. Could this be a substitute for the taxing but necessary work that comes with a commitment to other therapies? Meg Olmert is the chief research adviser for the Maryland-based Warrior Canine Connection. Her nonprofit has veterans train service dogs for other veterans, and advocates "softer" canine PTSD skills, such as picking up cues and providing appropriate support -- learning to wake someone up during a nightmare, or detecting when a veteran is anxious and interacting with him to calm him down. Rep. Ron DeSantis, chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform's national security subcommittee, introduced the Puppies Assisting Wounded Service Members Act, or the "PAWS Act," to create a $10 million project that would set aside $27,000 per dog for veterans diagnosed with the most severe forms of PTSD. Funding would come out of a Veterans Affairs budget pegged for such things as convention planning and office decor, reported the Fairmont, West Virginia Timeswv.com. The House Veterans Affairs committee is scheduled to hear the bill next week. A federal-level decision from the VA on covering the costs of the dogs for veterans with mental disorders won't be made until at least 2018. "Veterans cannot wait until 2018. The problem of veteran suicides is too urgent," , said during an April hearing. Former Marine Tony Austin would no doubt agree. After returning from active duty, he was struggling with PTSD and also rescued a bull mastiff named Hadji. Then, he learned about trained service dogs that help sufferers of PTSD. "His whole point is disruption, to break my train of yelling," one veteran said of his dog's methods. "I learned what these dogs can do, and I learned about what they can cost and how long it can take to get one," Austin told People Magazine of the process. Along with struggling to meet the high costs of a service dog, Austin was having trouble going through the demanding application process to obtain a service dog due to his PTSD -- and what would he do with the newly rescued Hadji? "We were having the conversation about getting rid of him or not, and he was lying on the couch between my wife and I," Austin told People of Haji. "The next night, or two nights later, was the first night he woke me up from a nightmare." Austin suddenly wondered if the perfect PTSD service dog was already living under his roof. "His whole point is disruption, to break my train of yelling," Austin said of Hadji's methods. "He breaks my focus and my train of thought and my sense of structure in my head on what I am gonna say. That disruption is not a reset switch, because you can't forget what was said or how it was said, but it's that opportunity to recalibrate and add some stuff with a new approach," Austin explained. Austin's experience convinces him of the need for PTSD service dogs for those who are hurting. He has started his own nonprofit called Dog Tags and Capes -- he and his wife provide service dogs to other vets. "Hadji is definitely ," Austin told People. Looking for the latest headlines in small business, innovation and tech? Our Start Up Your Day recaps are posted every morning to keep you current. Friends first. Facebook has released a document detailing its News Feed Values in an attempt to be more transparent, in which it explains that it values friends' posts over publishers'. Point A to Point C. Google Maps now allows for multiple destinations on Android mobile devices. Take it Yeezy. Adidas and Kanye West are expanding their partnership, planning new gear and even Yeezy retail stores. Sea of screens. Apple is patenting technology that would disable iPhone users from taking photos and videos at concerts. Just havin' a laugh. A hacker briefly took over the Oculus CEO's Twitter account and falsely announced a new CEO for the company. Stream away. Netflix continues to look into entering China as the company tries to grow its subscriber base outside of the U.S. Tactical advantage. An AI fighter pilot beat a human in multiple flight simulator trials. Happy anniversary. Microsoft's free Windows 10 anniversary update will arrive on August 2. Officials at Joint Base Andrews outside Washigton, D.C. lifted a lockdown Thursday after determining that a report of an active shooter on the base was untrue. The confusion was heightened by a planned active shooter drill that had not yet begun and was planned for later in the morning. Someone through a window inside a Malcolm Grow Medical Facility building spotted two individuals whom the base identified as security personnel with long guns inspecting the area, a law enforcement source told Fox News. The individual inside the medical building called 911 unaware they were security, the source said. Given the call, first responders had to treat the situation as a real response. The drill had been planned to take place on the opposite side of the base. Officials said in a Facebook post Thursday that there was no shooter and no threat to the base or workers there. "Joint Base Andrews was scheduled to conduct a no-notice active shooter exercise in the late morning on the opposite side of the base," JBA wrote. "However, reports of a real-world active shooter situation at the medical facility were miscommunicated before the exercise was able to begin. There was a misidentification of the security forces emergency services team who were conducting a routine inspection of the medical facility, which caused the distress call to the base defense operations center." JBA is located in Prince George's County, Maryland. The base is located about 15 miles from the White House and is where Air Force One is parked. "Fortunately, this was not a life-threatening situation," Col. Brad Hoagland said in the base statement. "We take all threats seriously and reacted to ensure the security of those on the base." Fox News' Matt Dean, Garrett Tenney, Lucas Tomlinson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. A judge says he hopes to name a special prosecutor by Aug. 4 in the case of a white Chicago police officer charged with murder in the fatal shooting of a black teenager. The Chicago Sun-Times reports (http://bit.ly/29cLItT ) that Judge Vincent Gaughan said during a Thursday court hearing that notices have been sent to state's attorneys across Illinois to see whether they want to handle officer Jason Van Dyke's case. That includes Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office and the state appellate prosecutor's office. Gaughan said he would search for an outside prosecutor after Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez asked last month to step aside. Van Dyke is accused of shooting Laquan McDonald 16 times in October 2014, killing him. ___ Information from: Chicago Sun-Times, http://chicago.suntimes.com/ The Marine Corps is looking into allegations of hazing, assault and physical abuse involving 15 drill instructors at Parris Island training depot in South Carolina, officials said Thursday. The allegations stem from an investigation into the death of a Parris Island recruit in March, Maj. Gen. James W. Lukeman, the commander of Marine Corps training and education at Quantico, Virginia, said in a statement. Raheel Siddiqui of Taylor, Mich., 20, died after falling nearly 40 feet in a stairwell at the installation, the Naval Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS) has said. Once the Marine Corps' investigations are complete, it will be up to Lukeman to determine "appropriate administration and judicial actions necessary" based on the study's findings, the statement said. A spokesman for Lukeman, Capt. Joshua Pena, said there was no time limit for the investigations to be wrapped up, or for Lukeman to take any disciplinary steps, should he decide to do so. The two-star general said all of the Marines under investigation have been assigned to duties that do not involve recruits. "The safety of the recruits and the integrity of the Marine Corps recruit training program are among our top priorities, and once the investigations are complete, we will take necessary administrative and judicial action as warranted to ensure proper accountability," Lukeman added. Nabih H. Ayad of Detroit, an attorney for Siddiqui's relatives, said Thursday that the Marine Corps hasn't kept them updated about its inquiry and they don't believe they have the full story about his death. "We have always suspected hazing of some sort," Ayad said in a telephone interview. Ayad said the Naval Investigative Service has told the family that their separate investigation could take up to a year to complete. That investigation is separate from the NCIS probe. Lukeman's statement said the investigation reaches back to November 2015 and "appears isolated" to companies within the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion at the South Carolina depot. He said the allegations also involved a potential "failure of supervision." The statement said that during the investigation of Siddiqui's death, it was found that a drill instructor was improperly placed in charge of recruits while being the subject of an ongoing investigation. The statement didn't detail what that investigation was. It also said that "existing orders, policies and procedures to prevent improver assignments were not followed," but did not detail them. "Interim corrective actions have already been taken," the statement added, but it did not identify what those actions entailed or when they took place. However, three senior Marines at the installation have already lost their positions in the wake of Siddiqui's death. Col. Paul D. Cucinotta, the commander in charge of recruit training, was relieved of command on June 6. Sgt. Maj. Nicholas A. Deabreu, Cucinotta's senior enlisted adviser, was dismissed at the same time, the Marines announced earlier this month. On March 31, Cucinotta relieved Lt. Col. Joshua Kissoon of his command. Kissoon had been in charge of Siddiqui's battalion. At the time, the NCIS said its investigation into Siddiqui's death was ongoing and that no foul play was suspected. The NCIS spokesman handling queries on the investigation did not return a phone call Thursday. In The Business of Good, serial and social entrepreneur Jason Haber intertwines case studies and anecdotes that show how social entrepreneurship is creating jobs, growing the economy, and ultimately changing the world. In this edited excerpt, Haber profiles several outstanding Kickstarters who are changing the face of social enterprises. Today theres a new group of philanthropists who are redefining what it means to give. In fact, they arent really giving -- theyre Kickstarters of social enterprise who expect something in return. More than check writing, Kickstarters provide social entrepreneurs with all the tools necessary for success. They are diverse organizations that engage in grant making, equity investing, forum organizing, and community connecting. They kickstart, incubate, and mentor the growing social enterprise community. Lets meet some of these Kickstarters. Opening the Gates In 1997, above a pizza shop in Redmond, Washington, a new foundation opened for business. Having made his fortune many times over, Bill Gates took his first baby step in social enterprise. Today, armed with an endowment of more than $42 billion, the Gates Foundation is the most powerful social entrepreneurial and philanthropic force ever unleashed in human history. Over 70 percent of the nations on earth have GDPs less than $42 billion. The Gates Foundation has the kind of power once reserved for governments. Its projects range from improving health care and education to ending poverty. The foundation doesnt just make grants, either. In 2015, it took a $52 million equity stake in a vaccine manufacturer. But more important is the overall approach the foundation takes to problem solving. It looks at market-based solutions, it looks for enterprising ideas, and it looks at the financial benefits of positive outcomes. Bill and Melinda Gates are applying all theyve learned at Microsoft to tackle the worlds toughest problems. Melinda told a reporter back in the foundations earlier days: One thing to understand about the foundation is that its a lot like Microsoft in the sense that we do expect results. We are going to measure things as we go along. We are going to make changes. This is what differentiates the Gateses breed of philanthropist from past generations. Its still nice to write a check, but Kickstarters dont stop there. It's like getting into Harvard, only tougher Each year more than 3,000 people apply for 40 open slots. Despite the 1.3 percent admission rate, applicants spend hours working on their applications, which are due every November. Once submitted, the application will be reviewed three times by three different teams. From there the list is whittled down to 500 to 600 people. External evaluators are brought in, and a group of 80 finalists are then invited in for formal interviews. In June, the 40 fellows are announced. Those 40 people are now members of an exclusive club. They are Echoing Green Fellows. Since 1987, Echoing Green has been trailblazing a path for social entrepreneurs. To date, this nonprofit has injected over $40 million into both nonprofit and for-profit ventures. Nearly 700 social entrepreneurs working in more than 60 countries have been kickstarted by Echoing Green. Notable ventures have come out of the fellowship, including Teach for America, Citizen Schools, One Acre Fund, SKS Microfinance, City Year, and College Summit. The Echoing Green Fellowship lasts two years. Once aboard, a newly installed fellow works with a portfolio manager to create an individualized plan and establish goals. Fellows get help with fundraising, business building, operations planning, theory of change, and M&E (monitor and evaluation), and are reminded to stay passionate about their work. Fellows receive $80,000 (or $90,000 if in a partnership) and $4,000 of health insurance reimbursements, which, it should be noted, goes a very long way in the developing world. They also tap into the vast ecosystem of fellows, advocates, practitioners, professionals, and supporters. The legendary Bill Drayton Since 1980, Bill Drayton has been the leader of Ashoka, the granddaddy of the Kickstarters. His involvement in social entrepreneurship goes back to before the term was popularized. In fact, he coined the term. He may not be a household name, but within the nonprofit community, hes a legend. Since 1981, when the Ashoka Fellows program launched, more than 3,000 social entrepreneurs have received mentoring, training, funding, and access to the ever-growing network of Ashoka fellows. Ashoka fellows are now in 63 countries, where their impacts are profound. The organization has concentrated on eight areas for social change investment: climate change, energy and environment, transforming modern governance, empowering youth to be change makers, cultural and religious tolerance, innovative social financial solutions, womens livelihood development, bringing disability into the mainstream, news, and knowledge. Ashoka Fellow candidates undergo a rigorous screening process before theyre selected. They are evaluated against five criteria. First, the idea must be a knockout. Fellowships are offered only to those who have truly new ideas that will bring about change. Second, Ashoka is looking for creativity. The question theyre likely to pose is: Does this individual have a vision of how they can meet some human need better than its been met before? Third is the entrepreneurial quality. The candidate needs to have a fire-in-the-belly desire to be engrossed in this venture for the next decade and beyond. Fourth is the social impact of the idea. Ashoka wants ideas that scale up to be transformative. As a result, it wouldnt consider a new health facility or school unless it had bigger aims to make broad change. Lastly, Ashoka probes the ethical fiber of each candidate. Only those they trust beyond question will gain entry into this incredible community. Over the years, Ashoka and Drayton have received many accolades. They are all earned. But as Bill Drayton says: Anyone can do this. However, you have to give yourself permission to see a problem and then to give yourself further permission and the time needed to find a solution. Dotcom kickstarters Starting eBay and America Online changed commerce and connectivity. Now they seek to become change makers themselves by kickstarting a new generation of social entrepreneurs. For Jeff Skoll, Pierre Omidyar, and Steve Case, deploying their wealth to kickstart the energy, passion, and impact of social entrepreneurs is their new passion. Jeff Skoll grew up in a middle class family in Canada. In college, he pumped gas to earn money. After graduate school and a few stints here and there, he met Pierre Omidyar, who had an idea for an online auction business. Skoll didnt think much of it. But Omidyar continued to talk with Skoll about it, and he eventually joined eBay as its first president. Less than three years later, Skoll would be a billionaire several times over. Armed with those resources, he set about to achieve his vision: to live in a sustainable world of peace and prosperity. To achieve that vision, Skoll has unleashed a triple threat of change: the Skoll Foundation, Participant Media, and the Skoll Global Threats Fund. Since its launch in 1999, the Skoll Foundation has pursued large-scale change through making strategic investments and bringing together leading social entrepreneurs of the world. The foundation has invested an astounding $500 million into more than 100 different ventures on five continents. From clean-water projects in India to health care in Gambia and antiretroviral drugs in Haiti, Skoll has supported and invested in a large portfolio of social entrepreneurs. The Skoll Foundation accepts nominations from its network of partners but doesnt accept unsolicited nominations for its annual Skoll Awards. It seeks out disruptors who have ideas that can scale, who can collaborate within their ecosystem, and whose social mission is aligned with their vision. Investments are significant, with recipients receiving $1.25 million in funding, support growing their enterprise for three years, and membership to the global community of past and present Skoll Award recipients. To combat threats that could endanger world stability, Skoll launched the Skoll Global Threat Fund to tackle climate change, water scarcity, pandemics, nuclear proliferation, and Middle East conflict. In 2004, Skoll launched Participant Media and produced such films as Syriana; Good Night, and Good Luck; An Inconvenient Truth; Fast Food Nation; Charlie Wilsons War; Darfur Now; and others. The films have been a tremendous success. Theyve not only made money but also created conversations that relate to Skolls vision on climate change, public health, and foreign policy. And theres the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship. Between the River Thames and Castle Mill Stream in Oxford, England, sits the Said Business School. Said is a newcomer in the sprawling institution that is Oxford, having been founded in the mid-1990s. Since November 2003, its been home to the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship. The Skoll Foundation endowed the program with a 4.4 million donation (over $5M in USD). Connecting the world of academia with the universe of social entrepreneurs, the Skoll Centre has become a dynamic hub of innovation and energy for the field. Every spring the Centre plays host to the Skoll World Forum, which has become the TED of social entrepreneurship. Pierre Omidyar learned many business lessons when he built eBay into an e-commerce powerhouse. Taking those lessons to his own foundation, the Omidyar Network, Omidyar is once again rewriting all the rules. He refers to the foundation as a philanthropic investment firm. We need to change the way people think about businessto see that its not inherently evil but inherently good, he told Matthew Bishop and Michael Green in their book Philanthrocapitalism. My sense is that the social sector has acknowledged that, in the end, having a social impact is not the exclusive preserve of nonprofits. Whether you are nonprofit or for-profit, you need to be scalable, need to be sustainable, need to focus on customers and outcomes. To make that shift, Omidyar seeks market-based approaches to problem solving that have the ability to scale up. Investments in for-profit ventures are made through an LLC, and grants to nonprofits are made via a 501(c)(3). The Omidyar Network focuses on five sectors: consumer internet and mobile, education, financial inclusion, governance and citizen engagement, and property rights. Omidyar has committed $810 million since the foundations 2004 inception. Forty-four percent of capital has been invested in for-profit ventures, while 56 percent has gone to nonprofits. Regardless of the sector, we invest in organizations that have the potential to embody innovation, scale, and sustainability or help bring them about within their industry, the Omidyar Network website says. Wealth, Andrew Carnegie once wrote, is not to feed our egos but to feed the hungry and to help people help themselves. The Kickstarters are carrying on this tradition. Theyve changed philanthropy and along the way have been a liberating force for social entrepreneurs. A group of firefighters who had to deploy their fire shelters this week while battling an Arizona blaze were part of the Navajo Interagency Hotshot Crew. Six firefighters in the 20-member crew deployed their shelters Tuesday, a few days after the three-year anniversary of a fire that claimed the lives of 19 Yarnell Hotshot crewmembers. The Yarnell Hotshots deployed their fire shelters in a last-ditch effort to save themselves. The lightweight cocoons are made of reflective material and are intended as a firefighter's last resort. The six who deployed their shelters Tuesday were treated for smoke inhalation but were otherwise uninjured. They haven't been identified. Authorities are still investigating what led to the deployment of the shelters but said the hotshot crew was in an area where the fire wasn't yet controlled. The fire is burning on 71 square miles on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. Congo's president says nothing can stop long-awaited elections from taking place even as fears mount of a possible delay. President Joseph Kabila addressed the issue Wednesday, saying nothing more could prevent the vote from going forward. The comments were made in his address to the nation ahead of Thursday's anniversary of Congo's independence from Belgium. Kabila, who came to power after his father's assassination in 2001, has not declared whether he will try to run again later this year. Already though Congo's main opposition candidate Moise Katumbi has left the country after an arrest warrant was issued for him. Congo has never had a democratic transition of power in its 56 years of independence. Iraqi aircraft joined the U.S.-led coalition in airstrikes targeting Islamic State convoys, a U.S. military spokesman in Baghdad told Fox News Thursday, after a U.S. official said at least 250 militants were killed. The strikes unfolded Tuesday night into Wednesday, Col. Christopher Garver said. The first convoy was spotted southwest of Fallujah in an area with known ISIS influence, according to Garver. Iraqi Security Forces fought the militants on the ground, he said, before coalition strikes destroyed some 55 vehicles. The official said a second convoy formed east of Ramadi later Wednesday before coalition and Iraqi jets launched more strikes. He said that air assault destroyed nearly 120 ISIS vehicles, but in both attacks, Iraqi Security Forces destroyed more. Reuters was first to report the air assault. Following territorial losses, ISIS often turns to increased militant attacks in and around Baghdad. On Thursday, police said separate attacks targeting commercial areas in the Iraqi capital killed at least 12 civilians. The deadliest was in the southwestern neighborhood of Shurta al-Rabia where a suicide bomber blew himself up in an outdoor market, killing seven people and wounding at least 15. In Baghdad's western Ghazaliya neighborhood, an explosion killed three civilians and wounded 11 in a commercial area. In a bombing in a commercial area in southeastern district of Zafaraniya, two civilians were killed and eight were wounded, police added. Medical officials confirmed the casualty figures. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to release information. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but it bore the hallmarks of ISIS. Also Thursday the U.N. children's fund warned that the ISIS surge in Iraq and the military operation to route the extremist group from captured territory have had a "catastrophic impact," with some 4.7 million Iraqi children in need of humanitarian assistance. UNICEF warned that 3.6 million Iraqi children are at "serious risk" of death, injury, sexual violence, abduction and recruitment into armed groups, and called on warring parties in Iraq to protect their rights. It said that the number of children in Iraq at serious risk of death or wartime exploitation had increased by 1.3 million in the past 18 months. "Children in Iraq are in the firing line and are being repeatedly and relentlessly targeted," said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF's Iraq representative. "We appeal to all parties for restraint and to respect and protect children. We must help give children the support they need to recover from the horrors of war and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Iraq." The airstrikes come roughly 24 hours after the triple suicide bombing at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport that killed more than 40 people. ISIS is considered the prime suspect, according to top U.S. officials. CIA Director John Brennan on Wednesday said the attack "bears the hallmarks of ISIL's depravity." Earlier this month, Brennan told Congress that the U.S. battle against the Islamic State had not yet curbed the group's global reach and that the terrorists were expected to plot more attacks on the West and incite violence by lone wolves. He said ISIS had a large cadre of Western fighters who could potentially act as operatives for attacks in the West. Fox News' Lucas Tomlinson and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Taliban militants launched a twin suicide attack on Thursday, targeting a convoy of buses carrying Afghan police cadets outside of the capital and killing 37 people, mostly policemen, and wounding 40, an Afghan official said. The Taliban have once again shown their total disregard for human life. Their increased use of improvised explosive devises are taking a very heavy toll on the Afghan people, Brig. Gen. Charles Cleveland, spokesman for NATO-led Resolute Support, responded. We strongly condemn the actions of Afghanistans enemies and remain firmly committed to supporting our Afghan partners and the National Unity Government. The attack took place in Paghman district, some 12 miles west of Kabul, according to Mousa Rahmati, the district governor of Paghman. The first suicide attacker struck two buses carrying trainee policemen, and a second attacker targeted those who rushed to the scene to help and also hit a third bus, Rahmati said. He said that four civilians were among those killed. The cadets were returning from a training center in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave, Rahmati said. In a statement later on Thursday, the Interior Ministry said that 30 police recruits had been killed and 58 others wounded in the attack. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the different casualty figures. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack in an email sent to The Associated Press by spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Mujahid said that the attack was the work of two suicide bombers. The first targeted the bus carrying the trainee policemen and their instructors. A second bomber attacked 20 minutes later, when policemen had arrived at the scene to help, according to Mujahid's account. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an "attack on humanity" in a statement and ordered an Interior Ministry investigation into the incident. In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Kabul condemned the attack. "This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramadan is abhorrent," it said. Later Thursday, and attack on a convoy carrying security forces in eastern Ghazni province killed two and wounded four troops, said Jaweed Salangi, spokesman for the provincial governor. The attack took place in Andar district as the convoy was en route from Paktika province toward Ghazni, Salangi said, adding that the deputy chief of the Paktika intelligence service was among those killed. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack in Ghazni, though the Taliban are known to be active in the province. The Taliban have lately stepped up their attacks as part of their summer offensive. The insurgents frequently target convoys of Afghan troops or buses carrying civil servants or those perceived to be working for the Kabul government. Fox News' Lucas Tomlinson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. The terror attack at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport injured at least one American, Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson confirmed Thursday. The unidentified American suffered "minor injuries," Johnson said at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. More than 200 people were injured in all and at least 43 died in Tuesday's attack, investigators said. Johnson told lawmakers the attack bore the "hallmarks" of the Islamic State, though the terror group had not claimed responsibility. Turkish Interior Minister Efkan Ala told parliament 19 foreign nationals were among those killed in the attack. At least 94 remained in hospitals, the Istanbul Governor's office reported. Turkish officials said all three attackers arrived by taxi at the level of the arrivals hall terminal. The first assailant entered the terminal, opened fire and then blew himself up near the X-ray machines, according to the officials. During the chaos, the second attacker went upstairs to the departures level and blew himself up. The third attacker waited outside during the whole episode and detonated his explosives last as people flooded out of the airport in a panic. The two officials spoke on condition of anonymity in line with government protocol. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A 13-year-old Jewish girl who was stabbed to death in her bed by a Palestinian attacker on Thursday was an American citizen, the State Department said. Hallel Yaffa Ariel was asleep in her home in a West Bank settlement when a 17-year-old assailant broke in to the house and killed her before he was shot by security guards. "The horrifying murder of a young girl in her bed underscores the bloodlust and inhumanity of the incitement-driven terrorists that we are facing," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said after an emergency meeting with his defense minister. "The entire nation deeply identifies with the family's pain and declares to the murderers: you will not break us." In Washington, the U.S. State Department condemned "in the strongest terms the outrageous terrorist attack." "This brutal act of terrorism is simply unconscionable," spokesperson John Kirby said in the statement. "We extend our deepest condolences to her family. We also understand another individual who was responding to the attack was wounded by the attacker. We extend our hopes for a quick and full recovery." Kirby confirmed Ariel's U.S. citizenship Thursday afternoon. Israel has a large community of dual American citizens, numbering in the tens of thousands. The Israeli military sealed off the entrances to a nearby village, where the home of the attacker was located, and Netanyahu called on both the Palestinian leadership and the international community to condemn the brutal assault. Ariel was a a cousin of Uri Ariel, a Cabinet minister from the Jewish Home, a party affiliated with the West Bank settler movement. The minister later said Israel would make "every effort" to build up settlements in the West Bank. Photographs circulated by the Israeli government showed a pool of blood in a colorful children's bedroom in Kiryat Arba, a hard-line Jewish settlement located near the Palestinian city of Hebron, a focal point of the current wave of violence. Since last September, Palestinians have carried out dozens of stabbing, shooting and vehicular ramming attacks that have killed 33 Israelis and two American tourists. The assaults were once near-daily occurrences, but have become less frequent in recent months though they have not stopped altogether. On June 8, a pair of Palestinian gunmen killed four Israeli civilians in a popular Tel Aviv tourist district. Israeli security forces have had a difficult time stopping the attackers, in large part because they have tended to be young "lone wolf" assailants, often in their teens or early 20s, acting on their own and not sent by organized militant groups. Thursday's attacker seemed to fit that profile. The Palestinian Health Ministry identified him as Mohammed Tarayreh, 17, from the Bani Naim village near Kiryat Arba. The military said it had closed the entrances of Bani Naim to all but humanitarian and medical cases. Troops arrived at Tarayreh's family home for investigation, the army said. Netanyahu said Israel was revoking Israeli work permits for members of Tarayreh's extended family, and preparations were being made to demolish the family's home. Residents of Kiryat Arba said Tarayreh had climbed over a fence surrounding the settlement and entered the community undetected. It was not immediately clear how he entered the home. The military said private Israeli security guards at the settlement had fired at Tarayreh as he tried to flee the attack scene. One guard was stabbed before the assailant was killed, the army said. Emergency services' spokesman Yonatan Yagodovsky said the stabbed man was in serious condition. Speaking to reporters at the Jerusalem hospital where her daughter died, Ariel's mother, Rina, said the girl was sleeping when the attacker slipped into her room and attacked her. She defiantly said the community would remain strong. "Kiryat Arba is ours and it's still a place you can live in," she said. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A Chechen terrorist responsible for training Russian-speaking militants for ISIS is believed to be the planner of Tuesdays deadly Istanbul airport massacre that killed 43, according to Turkish media. Akhmed Chatayev was identified on a UN sanctions list as an ISIS leader and was wanted by Russian authorities, Reuters reported citing the pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper. Chatayev had been wanted for links to terrorism since 2008, Russia Today reported, citing Russian news agency Ria Novosti. Another attacker, also Chechen, was named as Osman Vadinov by the Hurriyet newspaper. Vadinov reportedly arrived in Turkey in 2015 from Raqqa, the Syrian capital of ISIS so-called caliphate. Turkish officials did not confirm either Chatayev or Vadinov as being involved in the attack. Turkish police on Thursday linked the airport suicide bombers to Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and rounded up 13 more suspects in connection with the attack. State-run Anadolu Agency said the raids were carried out in Istanbul's Pendik, Basaksehir and Sultanbeyli neighborhoods, which span the city's Asian and European sides. Police seized three hunting rifles and documents relating to ISIS. Authorities said all information suggests the shooting and suicide bombing attack by three assailants late Tuesday on one of the world's busiest airports was the work of ISIS. Of those killed, 19 were foreign nationals, three of whom had dual citizenship. More than 230 people were hurt in the attack. Thursday marked a second day of funerals and mourning. There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the militant group, which used Turkey as a crossing point to establish itself in neighboring Syria and Iraq. ISIS this week boasted to have cells in Turkey, among other countries. In separate large-scale police operations, nine suspects believed to be linked to ISIS were also detained in the coastal city of Izmir. It was not clear if the suspects had any links to the carnage at the airport. The report said the suspects were in contact with ISIS militants in Syria and were engaged in "activities that were in line with the organization's aims and interests," including providing financial sources, recruits and logistical support. Days before the Istanbul attack, on June 25, security forces killed two suspected Islamic State militants who were trying to cross the border illegally and ignored orders from security forces to stop, according to local media reports. One of the two militants was wanted by Turkey on suspicion that he would carry out suicide attacks in the capital Ankara or in the southern city of Adana, Anadolu said. Turkey shares long, porous borders with both Syria and Iraq, where ISIS controls large pockets of territory. The government has blamed ISIS for several major bombings over the past year, including in the capital Ankara, and on tourists in Istanbul. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The Mexican government has started airlifting food to the southern state of Oaxaca, which is largely cut off to commercial traffic by protesting teachers. Social Development Secretary Jose Antonio Meade told reporters Thursday that there would be two flights per day Thursday through Saturday to deliver more than 100 tons of food to the Pacific coast of Oaxaca. Meade says food is also being trucked in from the neighboring states of Guerrero and Veracruz. The food will be distributed through state-run stores. A radical teachers union and supporting groups have been blocking major highways in the state. Private vehicles are usually allowed to pass, but commercial trucks are blocked. The teachers oppose education reforms that the government has said are the law and cannot be withdrawn. The mastermind of Tuesdays Istanbul airport massacre appears to be a one-armed Chechen terrorist who trained Russian-speaking militants, had a long history of supporting terror and was known as Akhmed One-Arm, according to several government documents and regional media reports. Akhmed Chatayev was identified by the pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper as the organizer of the coordinated assault, which killed 44 and wounded more than 200 others at Turkeys Ataturk Airport. Turkish officials did not immediately confirm he was involved in the attack, and it was unclear if Chatayev was one of the airport bombers, in custody or on the run. Authorities said all information suggested the airport assault was the work of ISIS and, despite no claim of responsibility for the attack, Chatayevs involvement would show an ISIS link. Chatayev had been designated in October as a terrorist by both the U.S. Treasury Department and UN Security Council for supporting ISIS. The Treasury report identified Chatayev as a member of a group of militants that was planning attacks against U.S. and Turkish facilities and the UN report said Chatayev directly commands 130 militants and was the organizer and mastermind of planned terror acts against Russian interests abroad. Hes described as appearing in numerous videos in 2014 and 2015 in which he associated with other members of ISIS and greeted extremists in Dagestan. Chatayev began his extremist activities as a Chechen rebel fighting the Russians in the mid-to-late 1990s, according to numerous news organizations in the region. He was allegedly wounded in battle and captured, winding up in a Russian prison where he claimed he was brutally tortured. Its during this time Chatayev is believed to have lost the lower portion of his right arm, though its unclear if it was cut off for punishment or amputated for medical reasons. He left Chechnya in 2001 for Austria, where he provided support to Chechen rebels, including a September 2007 delivery of money and military uniforms, according to the UN terror listing. Chatayev was given refugee status during his time in Austria, The Georgian Journal reported. He spent time in a Swedish prison in 2008, according to the Journal, and was later apprehended in the Ukraine. It was expected he would be extradited to Russia, where he was wanted by authorities, but Chatayev was instead extradited to Georgia, the Journal reported. In August 2012 he was involved in the Lopota Gorge incident in which militants took several people hostage and killed three members of Georgias security forces. Chatayev proclaimed his innocence and said he was merely a negotiator. He was cleared of all charges stemming from the incident by a Georgia court in January 2013, however. Turkish police on Thursday linked the airport suicide bombers to Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, with Osman Vadinov, from Chechnya, named as one by Turkeys Hurriyet newspaper. Vadinov reportedly arrived in Turkey in 2015 from Raqqa, the Syrian capital of ISIS so-called caliphate. Vadinov and Chatayev may only be the most recent terrorists to come out of the Northern Caucuses region. The brothers who perpetrated the Boston Marathon bombing in April 2013, Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev, lived in Dagestan, a territory close to Chechnya, and the brothers' father was Chechen. Additionally, Tamerlan Tsarnaev travelled to Dagestan prior to the attack and was thought to be seeking ties to the group Caucasus Emirate. Chatayev was known to be a high-ranking member of that group before he joined ISIS. Authorities also rounded up 13 suspects in connection with the attack after raids in Istanbul's Pendik, Basaksehir and Sultanbeyli neighborhoods, Anadolu Agency reported. Police seized three hunting rifles and documents relating to ISIS. Fresh Coat of Newport Beach Aims to Raise the Bar in the Painting Industry Grygoriy Tolmachov's new business serves Costa Mesa, Irvine, Corona del Mar, Newport Beach and the surrounding areas. NEWPORT BEACH, CA (PRWEB) June 29, 2016 - Grygoriy Tolmachov is looking forward to serving his community in a new way with his new business, Fresh Coat Painters of Newport Beach. Fresh Coat of Newport Beach offers residential and commercial painting services including interior and exterior painting, wood staining and finishing, popcorn ceiling removal and a variety of other services for nearly every protective coating application. They use quality, environmentally safe materials and offer a 24/7 customer service center, online scheduling, in-home color design consultations and detailed proposals. Fresh Coat Painters of Newport Beach serves Costa Mesa, Irvine, Corona del Mar, Newport Beach and the surrounding areas. I was a lawyer back in Ukraine and I came to the United States as a student. After earning my MBA, I knew I wanted to open a business. I looked at many options, but when I came across Fresh Coat, it made perfect sense. Theres a lot of competition in the painting business in this community, but Fresh Coat stands out because of our commitment to quality, professionalism, reliability and customer service, Tolmachov said. Fresh Coat of Newport Beach is committed to quality products and services and the company offers a 3-3-3 customer service pledge, so calls will be answered by a live person within three minutes, a quote will be delivered within three days (customer schedule permitting) and the job will be started within three weeks. All Fresh Coat employees are trained, dependable, fully insured and background-checked. Our team is fast, honest and professional. When you work with Fresh Coat, you can trust that you and your time will be respected and that well always have your best interests in mind. We want to build relationships with our customers so theyll call us back the next time they need work done and those relationships are built by providing top notch quality and service, Tolmachov said. Fresh Coat was founded in 2004 as part of Strategic Franchising Systems. In the two years, Fresh Coat has been included in the Bonds Top 100 and named to Entrepreneur Magazines Franchise 500 list. Fresh Coat is also part of the International Franchise Association, the Small Business Associations Franchise Registry, VetFran and Minority Fran. For more information about Fresh Coat of Newport Beach, call (866)966-8586, email GTolmachov@FreshCoatPainters.com or visit http://www.FreshCoatNewportBeach.com. About Fresh Coat Painters With more than 120 locations nationwide, Fresh Coat Painters brings quality customer service, top-notch painting products, professionalism and affordable pricing to the residential and commercial painting industry. They use quality, environmentally safe materials and offer a 24/7 customer service center, online scheduling, in-home color design consultations, and detailed quotes. All painters are bonded and insured employees. For more information, visit http://www.freshcoatpainters.com, call 1-855-FRESH-COAT, or visit us on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. The company was founded in 2004 as part of Strategic Franchising Systems. In the last year, Fresh Coat has been included in the Bonds Top 100 and named to Entrepreneur Magazines Franchise 500 list. Fresh Coat is also part of the International Franchise Association, the Small Business Associations Franchise Registry, VetFran and Minority Fran. SOURCE Fresh Coat Painters Contact: Carolyn Liedtke Fresh Coat Painters +1 (513) 489-2026 ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Marcos Pizza Debuts on Nations Restaurant News Top 100 Report Ah!thentic Pizza Franchise Ranked No. 2 Fastest Growing U.S. Chain by NRN June 30, 2016 // Franchising.com // TOLEDO, Oh. Marcos Pizza, the nations fastest growing pizza chain, has been ranked the No. 2 fastest growing chain in the United States on the Nations Restaurant News (NRN) Top 100 report with a 23.7 percent sales growth increase compared to last year. Marcos also ranked No. 4 in total number of U.S. units growth with a 15.4 percent unit growth increase compared to last year. The NRN Top 100 report, now in its 42nd year, ranks the largest restaurant chains and parent companies based on U.S. sales, unit counts, growth, market shares and other metrics. The annual, industry-leading report has been used as a benchmarking tool for restaurants, suppliers, distributors and analysts to track restaurant brands, private-equity ownership and segment growth or decline. In NRNs report, the overall pizza segment totaled $20 billion in U.S. sales, up 6.83 percent from last year. It also saw a total U.S. unit increase by 1.2 percent from 23,790 units a year ago to 24,076 units, and a 3.9 percent increase in average ESPU growth. Marcos Pizza came out on top in both sales and unit growth categories, with system wide sales surpassing $417 million compared to $337.7 million last year. We are beyond thrilled to have made it onto NRNs Top 100, and even more excited to be recognized as the No. 2 fastest growing chain, said Bryon Stephens, Marcos Pizza President and COO. We have achieved this milestone through hard work and a team of dedicated individuals focused on both the success of our brand and fostering growing relationships with the customers in the communities we serve. We look forward to continued success in the years to come and sharing our product with even more people across neighborhoods nationwide. The rankings are a testament to Marcos Pizzas continued growth in 2016, with an average new store opening at a pace of every third day. On track to reach 1,000 locations in 2017, Marcos is continuing its growth through a combination of strategic franchise partnerships and initiatives such as the recent introduction of a new apprenticeship program aimed at recruiting veterans into the franchise system and putting them on the fast track to business ownership. Spearheaded by U.S. Army veteran, Scott Quagliata, the veteran-focused program will soon be expanded to include the general public and qualified candidates from Marcos existing pool of employees, further strengthening the brand with like-minded, dedicated individuals. About Marcos Pizza Headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Marcos Pizza is the fastest-growing pizza company in the United States (based on the number of stores signed into development since 2007). Marcos was founded in 1978 by Italian born, Pasquale (Pat) Giammarco and thrives by making Italian Pizza with fresh ingredients. The company has grown from its roots as a beloved Ohio brand to operate 700 stores in 35 states, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico and India. Most recently, Marcos Pizza was ranked No. 2 on Forbes Top 10 Franchises to Invest In in the medium investment rage and the No. 2 fastest growing U.S. chain on the Nations Restaurant News Top 100 report. To inquire about franchise opportunities with Marcos Pizza visit marcosfranchising.com. SOURCE Marcos Pizza Contact: Elida Coseri Fishman PR 847-945-1300 ecoseri@fishmanpr.com ### Add to Request List Added Request Information Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus The Bulldog Lawyers Open Office In Reading, PA To Help Injured Employees Get Workers Compensation In Berks County The Bulldog Lawyers, a group of workers compensation attorneys, have recently opened a new office location in Reading, Pennsylvania to serve clients in the Berks County area. -- The Bulldog Lawyers -- a group of Pennsylvania workers compensation attorneys -- have recently opened a new office location in Reading, Pennsylvania to serve clients in the Berks County area. Every day hundreds of employees in the State of Pennsylvania are injured while working. Suffering a serious injury on the job often leads to unexpected medical bills, a loss of steady income and lots of physical pain. These circumstances can create lots of stress and many injured workers do not know where to turn for help. Fortunately, there is hope. Pennsylvania's workers compensation laws are designed to protect workers who become injured on the job. Specifically, employees who suffer work-related injuries in Pennsylvania have the right to seek workers compensation benefits which can provide financial support during the recovery period. But obtaining these benefits is often easier said than done and many injured employees are left without the financial compensation that they need after a work-related injury. The Bulldog Lawyers have been helping injured workers in the State of Pennsylvania to obtain workers compensation benefits for more than 30 years. With the recent opening of their new office location in Reading, Pennsylvania, The Bulldog Lawyers will be helping injured workers throughout the Berks County area to get the workers comp benefits that they need. By working with an experienced attorney, people can help improve their chances of obtaining the benefits that they may be entitled to after an injury on the job. Whether someone is applying for workers compensation benefits for the first time, or are hoping to appeal a denied claim, The Bulldog Lawyers can help. Contact them today to schedule a free consultation and learn about the legal options available after an injury on the job. For more information about The Bulldog Lawyers and directions to the Berks County office, visit the Google My Business location page here. Contact Info: Name: Jay Shor, Esq. Email: info@bulldoglawyers.com Phone: 610-595-4658 Organization: The Bulldog Lawyers Source: http://www.prreach.com/pr/24847 Release ID: 121013 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Larry Pitt Named One of Nation's Top Injured Workers Attorneys by Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group Larry Pitt was honored by the Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group for his work on behalf of workers' compensation beneficiaries for the third year in a row. -- Larry Pitt has been recognized by the Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group as one of the Nation's Top Injured Workers Attorneys for 2016 for his work on behalf of injured employees throughout the greater Philadelphia area. This is the third consecutive year Mr. Pitt has been named to the list by the WILG. "I am very honored to be recognized by such a distinguished group," said firm founder Larry Pitt. "We've been here in Philadelphia for more than 35 years, and we've been focused on helping injured workers obtain compensation for every single one of them. The WILG is dedicated to the same worthy goals we are - to advocate on behalf of the injured, and to help the legal community be stronger for their clients. I will continue to fight for my clients, and it means a great deal to me to be recognized for that fight." Larry Pitt & Associates is a Philadelphia-based workers' compensation law firm. Mr. Pitt was named to the WILG's list of Top 100 attorneys. About the Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group The Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group was founded in 1995 as a "national non-profit membership organization dedicated to representing the interests of millions of workers and their families who, each year, suffer the consequences of work-related injuries or occupational illnesses and who need expert legal assistance to obtain medical care and other relief under workers' compensation programs." Membership is invitation only, and the group boasts close to 1,000 members throughout the country. If selected, members have access to, among other benefits: o The WILG's networking an information exchange o Legislative representation o Continuing legal education o Practice sessions o An online deposition banks o Coalition building and state support o Affinity partnerships The Top 100 list is created by the organization itself. Larry Pitt & Associates maintains office locations in Philadelphia, Lansdowne, Reading and Bensalem. The attorneys focus entirely on workers' compensation, Social Security Disability and personal injury claims. For more information, please visit http://www.larrypitt.com Contact Info: Name: Larry Pitt Organization: Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. Address: 409 South 20th Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: 215-546-0011 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/larry-pitt-named-one-of-nations-top-injured-workers-attorneys-by-workers-injury-law-advocacy-group/121021 Release ID: 121021 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Tax Attorney Rebecca Walser to Deliver Keynote at Hosted Dinner for Optometry's Meeting 2016 in Boston Wealth Strategist and Tax Attorney Rebecca Walser will be speaking at this year's annual Optometry's Meeting conference in Boston. She will deliver the keynote during a hosted dinner on Friday, July 1, 2016, at 7:30 PM EDT. -- Tax Attorney and Wealth Strategist Rebecca Walser will deliver a keynote during a complimentary dinner event hosted by Walser Wealth Management, for attendees of the Optometry's Meeting conference at The Westin Boston Waterfront hotel on July 1, 2016, at 7:30 p.m. in the Harbor Ballroom 1. Designed as an informative dinner, attendees will learn how most medical professionals are overpaying on their taxes due to their current tax strategy, and actions they can take to correct this. Other topics include: Why Market Risk is Worse Than You Think and How You Can Mitigate Your Exposure; Why You're Likely Losing The Tax Game and How to Stop Overpaying The IRS by Up to 50%; and How to Leverage The Same Financial Strategies Previously Reserved For America's Most Affluent. "Medical professionals are among the highest that I see consistently overpaying in taxes, and it doesn't have to be that way. The challenge is most doctors have never taken the opportunity to review their tax strategy with a qualified tax attorney to get absolute confirmation that they're taking full advantage of the tax code. Most of them feel their CPA should know the tax code but with over 400 different tax strategies, it's rare," exclaimed Walser. The dinner menu includes choices of four different entrees, including steak, fish, chicken, and vegan selections, with dessert. Attendees will also receive a copy of Walser's Special Report, 401K - America's Coming Retirement Disaster, along with door prizes and other gifts. Seating is limited. Attendees are encouraged to register early through the Eventbrite link on the Walser Wealth Management website, or by calling 866-929-3258. Optometry's Meeting is the official annual meeting of the AOA and AOSA. This year's conference will be held in Boston, Massachusetts, June 29, 2016 through July 3, 2016, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC). Rebecca Walser, JD, LLM, CFP is a seasoned wealth management advisor specializing in strategic tax and financial planning for high net worth individuals and families. As a television host, Rebecca is the featured expert on Daytime's financial segment, Smart Money Mondays. She is also the author of the forthcoming book, Pressure Test Your Financial Future Before It's Too Late, and the host of the popular radio talk show, Wealth Strategies, heard nationwide on iHeart Radio from 2 PM to 3 PM ET, Monday through Friday, on AM 1250 WHNZ Tampa. Walser has been featured in Bloomberg Business, Yahoo Finance, The Boston Globe, ABC News, NBC News, CBS News, FOX News, The CW, The Miami Herald, and other media outlets. For more information, please visit http://WalserWealth.com/ Contact Info: Name: Rebecca Walser Email: info@walserwealth.com Organization: Walser Wealth Management Address: 777 South Harbour Island Boulevard, Suite 350, Tampa, FL 33602 Phone: (866) 929-3258 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/tax-attorney-rebecca-walser-to-deliver-keynote-at-hosted-dinner-for-optometrys-meeting-2016-in-boston/121124 Release ID: 121124 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Food Industry Manufacturing Consultant Authors Book on Contract Negotiation Will Madden, lead contract negotiator for Right Brain Consulting, releases new book navigating the complexities of sourcing a co-man or co-packer in the food industry. -- Food product manufacturing consultant Will Madden of Right Brain Consulting has authored a book addressing the complexities of sourcing a co-manufacturer or co-packer. The book is titled "Separating the Con Man From the Co Man: How to Source a Contract Manufacturer" and is now available both in Kindle and paperback. Madden first got the idea to write this book when he saw a terrible contract one a client had signed. Madden asked the client why he would ever enter into such a disadvantageous contract. The client had no clue that what the co-manufacturer was asking for wasn't customary. Madden knew then that there was a huge need for education on the topic of contract negotiation, including what to expect from a good contract and how to find a decent co-manufacturer. Madden's book describes how to find a co-manufacturer or co-packer, how to put your best foot forward when negotiating a deal and how to protect yourself from unfair arrangements. The book is written for companies new to the food industry, including new food product developers who may already have a relationship with a co-man or co-packer but who are unsure if the contract is fair or unfair. Madden says, "It is the company's hope the book helps new food product companies to get on a more level playing field with their co-man or co-packer. The book empowers food companies to recognize when they have a good deal so they can preserve that relationship, but the company's hope is that it enables food companies to recognize unfair arrangements before they sign a bad contract so that disreputable co-manufacturers can't take advantage of their lack of experience or knowledge. "Information about sourcing a contract manufacturer is hard to find," Madden says. "The competition is stiff; good co-mans and co-packers are everyone's best kept secret. Marketing companies don't want consumers to know that they don't make their own products. Because of this, co-mans and co-packers can't really advertise and give examples of what they do." Madden's book, "Separating the Con Man From the Co Man: How to Source a Contract Manufacturer," is available on Amazon. Right Brain Consulting serves food product companies, offering the following services: contract negotiation, supply chain management, quality control process planning, food safety process and monitoring and general co-manufacturer sourcing and advising. To learn more about food industry contract negotiation, sourcing a co-manufacturer or co-packer and detailed information about the production of new food products, visit the company website. For more information, please visit http://www.right-brain-consulting.com/ Contact Info: Name: William Madden Organization: Right Brain Consulting Address: 350 W Hubbard St Suite 460, Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: 775-623-7666 Release ID: 121319 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Museum Targeting Psychiatry as "Industry of Death" Exposes Rights Violations As part of an ongoing effort to educate Floridians on their rights under the mental health law, CCHR has held over 100 events and toured more than 3,000 people through the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death museum. -- The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), a non-profit mental health watchdog dedicated to the eradication of abuses committed under the guise of mental health, has held over 100 events and toured more than 3,000 people through the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death museum as part of an ongoing effort to educate Floridians on their rights under the mental health law and are inviting all to view the museum at their headquarters in downtown Clearwater from 10 am to 10 pm daily. Since opening the new headquarters for the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) of Florida in July of last year, there have been more than 3,000 tours of the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death museum, which presents the unvarnished history of psychiatry while also providing information on the state of psychiatry today. Tours of the museum have been given to everyone from a mother who wanted to know how to protect her children from involuntary commitment to psychiatric nursing students brought by their professors to learn the truth about psychiatry. The headquarters has also hosted or participated in over 100 events designed to educate individuals on their rights under the mental health law of Florida commonly referred to as the Baker Act. "Our goal is to ensure that Floridians know their rights under this law, especially parents since minors may legally be sent for involuntary examination without parental knowledge or consent" said Diane Stein, President of CCHR Florida. "The museum tours and events help us to accomplish this goal faster and more effectively." In 2014, there were a total of 181,471 involuntary examinations initiated in Florida which was an almost 82% increase from 2002 to 2014 and 17% (30,850) of the total involuntary examinations were on children. Unfortunately the majority of parents in the state are not aware of this risk. Working to educate as many families has possible, CCHR has also mailed 84,000 postcards to families in Florida directing them to a website where they can learn more about the law and download a legal form to help protect their children from unnecessary involuntary examination. "We want to see a reduction of the number of involuntary examinations of minors in 2016 and hope to be able to restore the rights of parents under this law during next year's legislative session," said Stein. The museum is open daily from 10am until 10pm and events are held weekly and monthly. Both are open and free to the general public. For more information please visit the museum website. About Citizens Commission on Human Rights: CCHR is a non-profit, non-political, non-religious mental health watchdog. Initially established by the Church of Scientology and renowned psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Szasz in 1969, CCHR's mission is to eradicate abuses committed under the guise of mental health and enact patient and consumer protections. CCHR has helped to enact more than 150 laws protecting individuals from abusive or coercive mental health practices. It was L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, who brought the terror of psychiatric imprisonment to the notice of the world. In March 1969, he said, "Thousands and thousands are seized without process of law, every week, over the 'free world' tortured, castrated, killed. All in the name of 'mental health.'" CCHR Florida has already proven a major player in the state's fight against psychiatric abuse. After discovering that 55 percent of foster children in Florida had been prescribed powerful mind-altering psychotropic drugs, the commission documented the abuse to the health department which initiated changes that led to a 75 percent reduction in prescriptions for children under six. Additionally, working with the Florida legislature, CCHR Florida helped enact a law which prohibits public schools' involvement in the psychiatric drugging of children. Considered a potentially abusive, marketing tool for psychiatrists, CCHR Florida led the charge that got "Teen Screen", mental health screening of school children, banned from Pinellas County schools in 2005. For more information visit, www.cchrflorida.org For more information, please visit http://www.cchrflorida.org/ Contact Info: Name: Diane Stein Email: publicaffairs@cchrflorida.org Organization: Citizens Commission on Human Rights of Florida Address: 109 N. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater, Florida 33755 Phone: 727-442-8820 Release ID: 121297 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Reliant Plumbing Residential and Commercial Plumbing Celebrates Google Reviews Reliant Plumbing, a professional plumbing repair and service company in Austin, Texas, is celebrating perfect 5-star rating and reviews on Google. -- Reliant Plumbing, an Austin, Texas based residential and commercial plumbing service and repair company is pleased to celebrate receiving a perfect 5-star rating by customers on Google. The professional plumbing service in Austin is proud that they have been able to not only meet, but to exceed their customer's expectations and to garner positive reviews and the a 5-star rating by the members of their community. When reading the reviews left for the Austin residential and commercial plumbing company on Google, several customers remarked that the team were professional, extremely knowledgeable, and honest. Others commented that while plumbing problems are not pleasant to deal with, they were reassured by the skill and courtesy of the staff and that even their complicated plumbing problems were explained to them in easy to understand terms. Several others were thankful that the team at Reliant Plumbing were available for emergency plumbing issues 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and came to them after hours in order to help them save their property from extensive damage due to plumbing issues. The team at Reliant Plumbing, led by Max Hicks, a Master Plumber with over 14 years of experience in the residential and commercial plumbing industry, is proud that they have been able to help the customers in their community and to earn perfect 5-star reviews on Google. Their commitment to customer service and total customer satisfaction is an important part of their business and they look forward to continuing to offer exceptional customer service to plumbing customers throughout the greater Austin area. About Reliant Plumbing Reliant Plumbing was founded by Max Hicks, a licensed master plumber in Austin, Texas. Mr. Hicks has over 14 years of experience in residential, commercial, and repair plumbing. Reliant Plumbing proudly serves clients in Austin and the surrounding areas. For more information, please visit http://reliant-plumbing.com/ Contact Info: Name: Max Hicks Organization: Reliant Plumbing Phone: 512-662-7410 Release ID: 121475 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Quality Foundation Repair Austin Celebrates Perfect 5-Star Rating on Google Quality Foundation Repair, a foundation repair company in Austin, Texas, proudly celebrates their perfect 5-star rating on Google with 90 reviews. -- Quality Foundation Repair, a foundation repair company in Austin, Texas is proudly celebrating having received a perfect 5-star rating on Google after receiving 90 reviews. The local foundation repair company, which specializes in Pier and Beam and Slab foundation repairs, is excited to have achieved this important customer service milestone and to have exceeded their customers' service expectations. As part of their overall commitment to total customer satisfaction, the team at Quality Foundation Repair has focused on providing the highest quality foundation repair services to their clients while also giving their customers exceptional service from the moment they first make contact. This customer service commitment includes offering their customers no-charge estimates, free foundation evaluations, as well as individual time and attention on their foundation repair services. When reading the reviews left by the satisfied customers of Quality Foundation Repair on Google, many remarked that they were impressed with the levels of customer service and customer care. Several customers commented that while foundation repairs are often a stressful situation for homeowners, the team at Quality Foundation Repair went above and beyond to ensure that the process was as stress-free as possible. Other customers commented that the process was kept simple and easy to understand and that they always felt comfortable working with the team. The team at Quality Foundation Repair is proud to that they have been able to exceed their customers' expectations time and again and is proud to be celebrating their perfect 5-star customer rating on Google. About Quality Foundation Repair Quality Foundation Repair is a full service foundation repair company serving the greater Austin area. Experts in both pier and beam and slab foundations, they are the only pier and beam house leveling specialist in Austin. They have received positive reviews from customers on Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, and have received the Angie's List Super Service Award, as well as a Gold Austin Green Business Leader Award. For more information, please visit http://qualityfoundationrepairaustin.com/ Contact Info: Name: Simon Wallace Organization: Quality Foundation Repair Phone: 5123637769 Release ID: 121471 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Automotive Tire Market To Gain From Innovations Aimed At Development Of Environment Friendly Green Tires Till 2024 According to report published by Grand View Research, Inc global automotive tire market revenue is expected to reach USD 374.22 billion by 2024, Increasing automotive sales especially in developing countries is anticipated to favorably impact the global automotive tire market over the forecast period. -- The global automotive tire market size is expected to reach USD 374.22 billion by 2024 according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing automotive sales especially in countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea is anticipated to favorably impact the global automotive tire market over the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to rising disposable income and improvement in the overall lifestyle of consumers. Technological proliferation and the development of the innovative and environment-friendly green tires have opened up broad growth avenues for the industry participants. Moreover, increasing radial tire up gradation activities owing to its benefits such lesser vibrations, reduced fuel consumption and extended tire life due to less heat generated has favorably impacted the industry growth. However, stringent emission norms by governments and regulatory authorities worldwide are expected to challenge demand. For example, on September 1, 2010, the California Air Resources Board's (ARB's) Tire Pressure Regulation was formulated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles operating with underneath inflated tires by inflating them to the suggested pressure rating. Access full research report: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/automotive-tire-market Key findings o Two wheelers segment is anticipated to grow at CAGR of over 7.5% from 2016-2024. Increasing demand for two-wheelers across the developing countries such as India and China will contribute to the segment growth. o Increasing manufacturing and infrastructure building activities have spurred the sales of light commercial vehicles (LCV). Growing number of LCVs in Europe has led EU regulatory bodies and OEMs to enhance and improve the safety aspects of LCVs. The passenger car segment dominated the industry with over 40% revenue share in 2015 owing to the increasing advancements and innovations such as Plug-in cars. o The tire industry has witnessed a remarkable shift from the traditional to the technically advanced radial products. Radialisation of the truck tire market is anticipated to fuel the demand over the forecast period. In 2012, manufacturers in China produced over 50% of the global radial truck tires industry. o Stringent government guidelines worldwide are expected to regulate the global automotive tire market over the coming years. Asia Pacific dominated the industry contributing to over 40% of the global revenue in 2015. The presence of several prominent automobile manufacturers and ancillaries in the region is expected to generate high demand over the forecast period. o Key industry participants include Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli and Sumitomo. Manufacturers are gradually adopting innovative production techniques to gain a competitive advantage over others. Vendors are now adopting modern supply chain and distribution strategies such as e-commerce and retail chains to reach efficiently the end-user apart from the conventional supply to automobile assemblers and aftermarket industry. Request for free sample of this research report: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/automotive-tire-market/request Market Segments: Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2014 - 2024) o Passenger cars o LCV o HCV o Two wheelers Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2014 - 2024) o Radial o Bias Regional Outlook (USD Billion, 2014 - 2024) o North America o Europe o Asia Pacific o RoW Access press release of this research report: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/press-release/global-automotive-tire-market About Grand View Research Grand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company provides syndicated research reports, customized research reports, and consulting services. For more information, please visit http://www.grandviewresearch.com Contact Info: Name: Sherry James Email: sales@grandviewresearch.com Organization: Grand View Research, Inc. Address: 28 2nd Street, Suite 3036, San Francisco, California, 94105 Phone: 1-415-349-0058 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/automotive-tire-market-to-gain-from-innovations-aimed-at-development-of-environment-friendly-green-tires-till-2024/121628 Release ID: 121628 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Adipic Acid Market is Forecasted to Reach Around USD, 538 million Till 2020 Research by Hexa Reports The fastest growing market for Adipic acid to be is Polyutherane with expected CAGR of 5.2% from 2015 to 2020. Growing demand for Nylon fibres in automobile industry is the major reason for rise in demand of "adipic acid market" in recent years. -- Adipic acid market is estimated to go through momentous growth globally. This industry is estimated to reach around U7, 538 million till 2020.This acid is produced using petroleum derived products like phenol, benzene and cyclohexane .Adipic acid which is generally used in production of Nylon is also manufactured in Automobile industry. Adipic acid is majorly used for Nylon fibres, Nylon Resin, paints and coatings. Cyclohexane accounts for over 80% of Adipic acid which is produced globally. Due to shift in hydrocarbons market, phenol used a primarily for production of adipic acid is replaced by cyclohexane. Browse Detail Report with TOC @ http://www.hexareports.com/report/adipic-acid-market/details Polyutherane is considered to be one of the rapid growing applications in thermal insulation. The fastest growing market for Adipic acid to be is Polyutherane with expected CAGR of 5.2% from 2015 to 2020. Growing demand for Nylon fibres in automobile industry is the major reason for rise in demand of adipic acid market in recent years. Nations like Russia, China, India and Brazil is expected to counter the positive impact in adipic acid market over next five years. North American market is expected to hit USD over 1.6 billion by 2019 with CAGR of 6.2% from 2015 to 2020.Adipic acid is also used as the gelling aid and flavorant in food industry. With increasing concern regarding environmental protection, Synthetic acid has now been focused towards the production of Bio based Adipic acid. These bio based adipic acid are produced using Glucose, which are environmental friendly. Bio based adipic acid require low capital investment as compared to Synthetic Adipic acid. "Chemicals" Market Research Reports: United States Needle Coke Industry 2016 http://www.hexareports.com/report/united-states-needle-coke-industry-2016/details Global Hydrogenated Petroleum Resin Market http://www.hexareports.com/report/global-hydrogenated-petroleum-resin-market/details Asia Pacific Market, currently the leading regional market for Adipic acid is projected to be fastest growing market. Growth of electronics market in China is motivating the market growth of Adipic Acid in Asia Pacific. After Asia Pacific, Europe is the largest market for the Adipic acid, Use of Synthetic adipic acid in Europe, is affecting the Adipic acid market in China. Bio based Adipic acid holds around 16% lower utilities cost and around 30% lower manufacturing cost as compared to the Petroleum based adipic acid. About Us: Hexa Reports is a market research and consulting organization, offering industry reports, custom research and consulting services to a host of key industries across the globe.We offer comprehensive business intelligence in the form of industry reports which help our clients obtain clarity about their business environment and enable them to undertake strategic growth initiatives. For more information, please visit http://www.hexareports.com/report/adipic-acid-market/details Contact Info: Name: Ryan Shaw Organization: Hexa Reports Address: Felton Office Plaza 6265 Highway 9 Felton, California 95018 Phone: +1-800-489-3075 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/adipic-acid-market-is-forecasted-to-reach-around-usd-538-million-till-2020-research-by-hexa-reports/121635 Release ID: 121635 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sewing Machine Embroidery & Quilting Expert Online Members Only Website Launched Geraldine's Academy, a website by Australian home sewing, machine embroidery and quilting enthusiast Geraldine Gillen, has launched an online members' section, dedicated to assisting other enthusiasts with machine embroidery tips, tricks, ongoing learning and access to new designs. -- Australian, home sewing, machine embroidery and quilting enthusiast Geraldine Gillen has launched an online members' section on her Geraldine's Academy website, dedicated to assisting other enthusiasts with machine embroidery tips and tricks. More information and contact details can be found on the website: http://www.GeraldinesAcademy.com. Geraldine's Academy, established by Geraldine Gillen just over 18 months ago to offer advice and learnings of machine embroidery and quilting from one home enthusiast to others, has just launched a members' only area on the website, known as the Inner Circle, or The Studio. Members of The Studio will receive instructions, workbooks, videos and so on, on a regular basis. The Geraldine's Academy website has existing subscribers that receive free embroidery designs. The Studio will also be a closed group, but will operate on a paid monthly membership basis, and for those previously subscribed, they merely login in and are able to purchase their Inner Circle membership. Founding members of The Studio (Inner Circle) will remain on a locked in price for the duration of their membership and will be able to provide Geraldine with membership feedback. Access to The Studio provides membership benefits of ongoing training, a monthly set of new instructions and technique demonstrations for creating unique projects, videos demonstrating the techniques to help members master them and gain an artistic edge, and special pricing on all of Geraldine's products as they're released. Topics covered will include: machine embroidery, applique, quilting in the hoop, quilting designs, software training, how to's on the machine, questions and answers, projects, digital cutters and others depending on members' suggestions and feedback. Geraldine specialises in the use of Janome sewing machines and her designs such as the recently released Heavenly Scent quilt, complete with design set and workbooks available from the website, are particularly suited to the Janome MC12000 and MC15000 embroidery machine models. All designs are created and digitised by by Geraldine, and the workbooks are available on CD and come in PDF format, explained with easy to follow instructions. Membership to the newly launched Inner Circle can be subscribed to via the website using PayPal. Although listed in US dollars, PayPal converts it to local currency based on members' locations. Membership also allows subscribers access to a closed Facebook group by Geraldine's Academy. For more information, please visit http://www.GeraldinesAcademy.com Contact Info: Name: Fred Gillen Organization: Geraldines Academy Release ID: 121548 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Fire Retardant Protection & Intumescent Coatings Products Site Launched Envirograf, a UK leader in passive fire protection products' design and manufacture, has launched a new site featuring information on its products, products guides and case studies for the application of its products. -- Passive fire protection products' designer and manufacturer, Envirograf, has launched a new site featuring information on its products, products guides and case studies for the various product applications. Full details can be found on the website: http://envirograf.com. Envirograf, the brand of Intumescent Systems Limited, specialises in the design and manufacture of fire protection, fire prevention and fire retarding products, for buildings and properties in the private, commercial and public domain, helping protect lives and minimise building damage in the event of a fire. It's new website features all of its products in a multitude of categories and case studies demonstrating their application. The company provides passive fire prevention products for electrical penetrations, plumbing, doors, timber, steel, wall and ceiling protection, fire barriers, fireproof coatings and glazing, ventilation protection, mastics, putties, adhesives, fillers and sealants, and acoustic, draught and weather seals. These intumescent systems provide passive fire protection, remaining passive from the time of installation until the event of a fire starting, whereby they perform their intended purpose. Envirograf says that passive fire protection is the first line of defence in a fire, reacting in the event of a fire without human intervention, sealing openings to contain fire in a building via compartmentation, retarding the movement of flames across surfaces, and by resisting the penetration of fire into structural elements such as doors. An intumescent coating or sealant (such as fire retardant paint) works by swelling up when heated to protect the material beneath, or to seal a gap. The Envirograf website shows its best selling products as: intumescent downlight covers and cages; intumescent paint and varnish for wood products; intumescent fire protection gaskets range for use with a wide range of electrical boxes, providing fire and/or acoustic protection; rainscreen cavity barrier range for facade cladding systems; and, fire resistant paint coating for upgrading lath and plaster ceilings. Also featured on the website are a number of informational guides and how to's in relation to fire protection in buildings, including: an introductory guide on intumescent and fire retardant paints, How Intumescent Paints Protect Substrates; protecting a home from fire spread with passive fire protection products in compliance with UK fire regulations, How To Save Time And Money During Loft Conversion Projects; and compliance advice on wiring regulations, How To Comply With Amendment 3 (Regarding Consumer Units). The numerous case studies provide working examples of the practical application of the various products, a number of fire prevention and passive fire protection informational videos are available for viewing on Envirograf TV, via a link on the website. The company has been accredited by eight different national and European fire prevention and safety accreditation bodies. For more information, please visit http://envirograf.com Contact Info: Name: David Webb Organization: Intumescent Systems Ltd Release ID: 121549 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global and Chinese 2,4-Pentanedione (CAS 123-54-6) Industry Research Report by Radiant Insights Radiant Insights, Inc has announced the addition of the "Global and Chinese 2,4-Pentanedione (CAS 123-54-6) Industry, 2015 Market Research Report" report to their offering. -- 2, 4-Pentanedione refers to an organic compound that survives in two tautomeric appearances that are treated as a single compound and they interconvert rapidly. It is a colorless liquid that is a forerunner to acetylacetone (acac). The compound's chemical formula is CH3COCH2OCCH3. The enol and keto forms of acetylacetone coexist in solution. They further form tautomers. The hydrogen atom is shared uniformly between two oxygen atoms as the enol form has C2v symmetry. During the gas stage, the equilibrium constant is 11.7. It favors the enol form. Download Full 2,4-Pentanedione (CAS 123-54-6) Industry Research Report @ https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-and-chinese-2-4-pentanedione-cas-123-54-6-industry-2015-market-research-report The two tautomeric forms are simply distinguished by IR spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and other methods. In nonpolar solvents, the equilibrium constant remains high. On the other hand, the keto form stays favorable in polar, water, and hydrogen-bonding solvents. The enol form is the vinylogous analogue of carboxylic acid. By uses, the global 2, 4-Pentanedione (CAS 123-54-6) market can be segmented by pesticides, solvent, paint drier and lubricant additive. 2, 4-Pentanedione is the adaptable bifunctional precursor to heterocycles as both keto groups go through condensation. Pyrazoles is produced by hydrazine reactions. On the other hand, urea gives pyrimidines. Browse All Reports of This Category @ https://www.radiantinsights.com/catalog/chemicals Biodegradation of 2, 4-Pentanedione includes an enzyme breakdown. In addition, the enzyme acetylacetone dioxygenase slices the carbon-bond of acetylacetone. It forms 2-oxopropanal and acetate. The enzyme is proven to bind zinc and is iron dependent. 2, 4-Pentanedione anion creates complexes with numerous transitional metal ions. The usual technique of synthesis is to respond the metal ion in the existence of base. It shifts the equilibrium the favor of the complex and also assists in the elimination of the proton. Sometimes, the chelate effect is very strong and no supplementary base in needed to produce the complex. Request a Free Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-and-chinese-2-4-pentanedione-cas-123-54-6-industry-2015-market-research-report/request-sample The metal complex is sometimes insoluble in water as it takes no electrical charge. It can be soluble in nonpolar organic solvents. The global 2, 4-Pentanedione (CAS 123-54-6) market can be further analyzed by manufacturing technology, applications, regions, competitive landscape, and statistical analysis. About Radiant Insight Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. It assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. The Organization has a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. For more information, please visit https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-and-chinese-2-4-pentanedione-cas-123-54-6-industry-2015-market-research-report Contact Info: Name: Michelle Thoras Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Organization: Radiant Insights, Inc Address: 28 2nd Street, Suite 3036 Phone: (415) 349-0054 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/global-and-chinese-24-pentanedione-cas-123-54-6-industry-research-report-by-radiant-insights/121786 Release ID: 121786 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) China's Adipic Acid Market Size, Share And Growth Report : Radiant Insights,Inc RadiantInsights.com has announced the addition of "China's Adipic Acid Market Trends, Growth And Forecast Report : Radiant Insights, Inc" Market Research Report to their Database. -- Adipic acid is a commercially available aliphatic dicarboxylic acid. It is denoted by the chemical formula - (CH?)?(COOH)?. It is a prime component in the manufacture of nylon. It has major application in electronics and automotive industries. Browse Full Research Report With TOC on http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/adipic-acid-markets-in-china Adipic acid is mainly manufactured from cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone. It relies on other petroleum derivatives for its production. Asia Pacific led the global adipic acid market in 2012 by catering to 35% overall demand. The thriving automobile industry is one of the major factors driving the market in China. The adipic acid market in China is projected a rapid growth over the forecast period (2018-2023). High standard of living and disposable earnings of the China populace are another factor driving market growth. The market growth faces a threat from bio-based substitutes. Request A Sample Copy Of This Report at: www.radiantinsights.com/research/adipic-acid-markets-in-china/request-sample Products of the market are Nylon 66 fiber, polyurethane, nylon 66 resins, adipate esters, and others. Nylon 66 fiber and resins will be the fastest growing segment over the forecast period. This product has wide applications which include technical fibers, tire-cord, carpets, and textiles. Demand for materials which perform under duress and reduce the overall automobile weight are expected to drive the growth of this segment. Polyurethane was the second largest product in the market. Applications of the market include low-temperature lubricants, paints & coatings, synthetic fibers, and others. Paints & coatings demand will grow significantly on account of adipate esters used as a solvent. Other applications include cosmetics, fillers, polyester molding agents, chemical intermediates, and paper additives. Prominent manufacturers in China's adipic acid market are Asahi Kasei Corporation, BASF SA, INVISTA, Shandong Haili Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., and Shenma Industrial Co., Ltd. Manufacturers are shifting their production bases to China due to lax regulations and tax incentives. BASF constructed a plant at Shanghai Chemical Industry Park, China in 2015. This will allow it to produce adipic acid in mass quantities and expand its reach in Asia Pacific. See More Reports of This Category by Radiant Insights: http://www.radiantinsights.com/catalog/chemicals About Radiant Insights,Inc Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. We assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. We have a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. In addition to over extensive database of reports, our experienced research coordinators also offer a host of ancillary services such as, research partnerships/ tie-ups and customized research solutions. For more information, please visit http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/adipic-acid-markets-in-china Contact Info: Name: Michelle Thoras Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Organization: Radiant Insights, Inc. Address: 28 2nd Street, Suite 3036 San Francisco Phone: 4153490054 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/chinas-adipic-acid-market-size-share-and-growth-report-radiant-insightsinc/121784 Release ID: 121784 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) China Calcium Silicate Industry 2016 : Market Growth And Forecast Report By Radiant Insights,Inc RadiantInsights.com has announced the addition of "Global China Calcium Silicate Industry Trends, Growth And Forecast Report Up To 2016 : Radiant Insights, Inc" Market Research Report to their Database. -- Calcium silicate is a compound obtained by mixing silicon and calcium. 'Cal-Sil', a proprietary brand name, is its most commonly-used industrial form. The China calcium silicate industry is anticipated to attain lucrative growth owing to various wide-ranging applications across industries. Browse Full Research Report With TOC on https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/china-calcium-silicate-industry-2016 Calcium silicate is added to commercial table salt as an anti-caking agent. It can absorb about 250% of its own weight in water. Betite, a form of calcium silicate is found in cement. It is also used in passive fire protection and as an antacid in over-the-counter medications. It is a component of plastics and also acts as an emulsifier in paint. It is considered to be safer than asbestos, hence is incorporated in fireproof insulation. Prominent global companies are shifting their manufacturing operations to China in order to derive benefits arising from cheap raw materials and labor. The Chinese market is expected to be the chief growth driver of the Asia Pacific region in the global calcium silicate industry. This may be attributed to robust growth in the Chinese construction industry. Rapid urbanization, burgeoning population, and escalating disposable incomes are fueling the construction boom in China. They are also favoring growth of the other end-user industries of calcium silicate. However, fluctuating supply and prices of raw materials could pose a challenge to market growth. Request A Sample Copy Of This Report at: https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/china-calcium-silicate-industry-2016/request-sample Food & beverage is one of the leading end-users of calcium silicate in China. The compound is added to cheese, canned products, and fat-based deserts. This consumer segment is bound to grow on account of calcium silicate's approval by regulatory authorities like FAO (Food & Agriculture Organization) and WHO (World Health Organization) to. The OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) finds no proven serious health effects resulting from industrial exposure to this compound. This will augment demand from various industries. The China Calcium Silicate Industry is greatly fragmented. It is characterized by stiff competition on the basis of product price. Joint ventures and agreements are often practiced to further market capitalization. Some of the key players include BNZ Materials, Etex Group, Ramco Hilux, KingTec Materials, Yichang Hongyang Group, Johns Manville, NICHIAS, Jinqiang, Wellpool, Taisyou, and A&A Material. Companies like Shandong Lutai, Guangdong Soben Green, Sanle Group, Guangdong Newelement, and Ningbo Yihe Green Board are also established vendors. Browse All Reports of This Category at: https://www.radiantinsights.com/catalog/chemicals-and-materials About Radiant Insights,Inc Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. We assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. We have a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. In addition to over extensive database of reports, our experienced research coordinators also offer a host of ancillary services such as, research partnerships/ tie-ups and customized research solutions. For more information, please visit https://www.radiantinsights.com/research/china-calcium-silicate-industry-2016 Contact Info: Name: Michelle Thoras Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Organization: Radiant Insights, Inc. Address: 28 2nd Street, Suite 3036 San Francisco Phone: 4153490054 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/china-calcium-silicate-industry-2016-market-growth-and-forecast-report-by-radiant-insightsinc/121782 Release ID: 121782 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Right Brain Consulting Expands Services to Include Nutraceuticals Food industry consulting firm, Right Brain Consulting, expands services to include advise, contract negotiation and establishment of quality controls for nutraceuticals. -- Anthony Rocco is the head of nutraceuticals, a new service area for Right Brain Consulting, providing practical guidance for the production of functional foods governed by the Code of Federal Regulations and the Current Good Manufacturing Practices. According to Rocco, "Right Brain Consulting decided to expand into nutraceuticals because we are experiencing increasing demand for assistance in finding companies that can take new concepts and further develop them with the originators, and, if needed, can validate the amount of intended active ingredient in the dosage in order to get successfully manufacture new nutraceutical products." Nutraceuticals are classified by their natural sources, pharmacological make up, and chemical compositions. Medical foods and functional foods are all examples of nutraceuticals. Rocco says, "The manufacturing of nutraceuticals requires special attention and expertise because the products must be crafted with precision in order to deliver the intended quantities of active ingredients needed to provide the intended results. This type of manufacturing must be well documented, clean of any extraneous, foreign or harmful material. That means facilities and practices compliance must be validated by third party auditors." Right Brain Consulting ensures the proper precautions, monitoring processes, documentation and quality controls are put in place. Right Brain Consulting now evaluates new food product companies to determine if they are suitably equipped to produce nutraceuticals, advising them on key factors such as contamination prevention, sanitation processes and establishment of methodology and process (to ensure consistency of quality). This includes documentation of batch production methods, sanitation practices and controls, calibration of equipment, and end-product validation. "We take regulation and process very seriously," Rocco says. "If food companies are not careful with these processes and appropriate documentation, the consumer is at risk, especially if the product is adulterated or does not deliver the intended amount of active ingredient in the specified dosage form." To learn more about contract negotiation, quality controls and production of new food products (particularly in the nutraceuticals segment of the food industry), visit the company site. Connect with manufacturing consultants that understand the nutraceuticals sector inside and out. For more information, please visit http://www.right-brain-consulting.com/ Contact Info: Name: William Madden Organization: Right Brain Consulting Address: 350 W Hubbard St Suite 460, Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: 775-623-7666 Release ID: 121323 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Free Freightnet Membership List your company in the Freightnet directory. It's Free, it's Easy and your company can be displayed in front of potential freight buyers within 24 hours. Walker Crips saw its pre-tax profit more than double, despite costs incurred from the company upgrading its client information systems. According to the companys full year results ending 31 March, its pre-tax profit more than doubled to 0.94m from the previous years figure of 0.44m. Its gross profit jumped 15 per cent to 17.6m from 2015s figure of 15.3m, marking steady growth for the discretionary fund manager. Walker Crips, which specialises in stockbroking, investment and wealth management services, posted a one-off cost of 0.8m after upgrading its use of technology to better communicate with clients. This cost was offset by the company making a one-off gain of 0.9m after selling its illiquid Euroclear shares as part of a corporate buy-back programme in December last year. The firms discretionary and advisory assets under management increased by 15 per cent to a high of 2.3bn, from 2015s figure of 2bn. David Gelber, chairman of Walker Crips, said the firm is looking to refine its business model. He said: Against a background of difficult markets, we have striven to set higher regulatory standards and client service levels as we deliver our strategy for growth. The results cover the first full year since it bought Barker Poland Asset Management in March 2015, which boosted Walker Crips revenues earned as fees. The acquisition, however, meant the groups Financial Services Compensation Scheme levy rose to 402,000, from 2015s figure of 310,000. Mr Gelber said the firm faces significant demands from continuing regulatory initiatives and associated costs over the next 18 months. We will monitor diligently the impact of these factors and will react promptly as we consider appropriate. katherine.denham@ft.com The Council of Mortgage Lenders has urged the Prudential Regulation Authority to take into account the wide range of regulatory and fiscal changes already affecting the buy-to-let sector when considering underwriting standards. In its response to the PRAs review, the trade body argued its members have progressively tightened lending criteria in response to a range of existing measures, including the introduction of the stamp duty surcharge on additional properties, limits on mortgage interest tax relief and the likelihood that the Financial Policy Committee will be given powers over buy-to-let lending. The PRAs consultation began at the end of March - and closed yesterday (29 June) - setting out plans to strengthen underwriting standards for mortgage contracts, including a minimum level of stress testing to ensure loans remain affordable when rates rise. At that stage the CML and Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association both stated most lenders were up to scratch and further tinkering with the sector was unnecessary, with the latters executive director Peter Williams commenting: This is critical at a time when BTL is already feeling the full force of regulatory layering. In the wake of the UKs vote to leave the EU, the CML also pointed out lenders will now be busy adjusting plans for an uncertain future, warning any new proposals could affect the buy-to-let sectors strength and sustainability. We also reject the argument that it is only possible to achieve further growth of the buy-to-let sector by relaxing underwriting standards and thereby increasing prudential risks, read the organisations statement. The CML noted the PRAs plans would disproportionately affect a small number of firms that lend to high-net worth clients. In our view, high-net worth customers should be defined as those with a net annual income of more than 300,000, or assets worth more than 3m, which would mirror the definition applied by the FCA. When these customers take out buy-to-let mortgages, their borrowing may be backed by personal guarantees or supported by collateral in addition to the property against which they are borrowing, the CMLs response stated. Lenders in this market are also in many instances too small to be significant from a macro-prudential perspective, so the CML suggested lenders which advance less than 100 mortgages a year (on a rolling basis) exclusively to high-net worth clients should be excluded from the proposed regulations. Islay Robinson, chief executive at high-net worth broker Enness Private Clients, said the CML made a valid point. The PRAs paper suggests lenders apply stronger assessments on personal income when theyre not relying on the rental income to cover the loan. In reality, this will only apply to heavily geared landlords or areas where rental yields are typically lower than the property value would otherwise suggest. So, in the London market for example, if youre a HNW landlord, with low personal income but strong assets, the PRA could make it much harder to secure finance. The Treasury select committee has started an inquiry into the UKs future financial relationship with the European Union, as chairman Andrew Tyrie calls for a delay in triggering Article 50. Further evidence will be taken by the committee looking at the economic relationships which the UK might now seek with the EU before parliament breaks for the summer on 21 July. The inquiry will include the trade-offs between market access and controls, and will focus on the practical consequences for both people and businesses. Treasury select committee chairman Andrew Tyrie said Article 50 should not be invoked until the UKs position for negotiating with the EU has been established, despite members of the European parliament urging the UK to begin separating itself from the EU immediately. Article 50 is a clause in the Lisbon Treaty, which - once triggered - gives a country two years to work out the terms of its withdrawal. Mr Tyrie said: A crucial task is to identify the maximum level of EU market access, consistent with the need for some control on migration, adding work must also be done to identify the opportunities, as well as the risks, of leaving. The committees first hearing, which look place yesterday (29 June), took evidence from former cabinet secretary Lord Turnbull, professor David Miles at the Imperial College London and HSBC senior economic adviser Stephen King. Lets hope the FCA use it as an excuse to slim down the rulebook. Dan Farrow Dan Farrow, director of SBN Wealth Management, said: We should interpret this call for a delay in triggering Article 50 as meaning we dont have a team to do something which has not yet been considered. Article 50 should be triggered by the end of the year because it will be an important precedent for not only the UK, but the rest of the countries that will be seriously considering leaving, such as Greece and Spain. Insurance companies will be wanting to get the financial services passport situation clarified, but from an IFAs perspective, let us hope the Financial Conduct Authority use it as an excuse to slim down the rulebook and help us to provide clear and unambiguous advice. Following the Brexit vote, the Financial Conduct Authority reminded firms the result has not led to any regulatory changes. The FCA stated: Much financial regulation currently applicable in the UK derives from EU legislation. This regulation will remain applicable until any changes are made, which will be a matter for government and Parliament. Firms must continue to abide by their obligations under UK law, including those derived from EU law and continue with implementation plans for legislation that is still to come into effect. Consumers rights and protections, including any derived from EU legislation, are unaffected by the result of the referendum and will remain unchanged unless and until the Government changes the applicable legislation. katherine.denham@ft.com Dairy Crest has reversed the milk price cut originally announced for July. In another sign dairy markets might be improving, the 400 or so farmers supplying the Davidstow plant in Cornwall will still be paid 21.72p/litre. Dairy Crest has committed to a summer milk price floor, so the price should not fall again until the end of August. See also: 8 factors driving the milk market recovery The milk price had been pegged to fall to 20.72p/litre, but the U-turn reflects increased stability in the market, with commodity values rising and production growth slowing. Ruth Askew, Dairy Crest head of procurement, said her company wanted to reflect these changes as early as possible in what farmers were paid. This positive news is another sign of our confidence in the future of Dairy Crest and the wider British dairy sector, she said. Steve Bone, chairman of producer organisation Dairy Crest Direct, said he was pleased with the decision. We have been asking Dairy Crest to consider their position and this is a positive step, he said. Both parties agree that working together to deliver stability for our farmers is imperative. Ever since we started with self-publishing at Zoink Games we get a LOT of requests for keys to our games. This is great, because it means someone is interesting in playing or reviewing one of our games. Pretty sweet, right? Well, thats not always the case unfortunately. There are a lot of people out there trying to scam keys from developers like us, which have made us come up with a certain procedure we need to have every time we get a code request. Since most of the requests we get are legit but they differ a lot in how they are structured and a lot of them are missing important information I thought Id write a post about how you should approach a developer requesting a key if youre a honest person running a site or a channel. If you follow these steps obtaining a key shouldnt be a problem. Im realizing a scammer can read this as well but a lot of these things are hard to reproduce. So lets dig into this! 1. Write a good email (with a good subject line) Write a good email explaining who you are, what site or channel youre producing content for and what game youre interested in. Dont send me an email that starts with Dear Sir or madam because then I know I just got a generic mail thats been sent out to everyone. Im all for writing one email and copy-pasting it because I know these things take a lot of time but try to be personal and just adding someones name helps a lot. If I see someone has taken their time to send me a more personalized email Im more likely to respond faster than If I just got a random bulk email. 2. Have a good looking channel or website I normally only spend a few seconds checking a site or a channel out and first impression is important. I just check its a real site and that there are actual articles there and not just headlines (these sites exist!). Make it easy to see what kind of games you play or review so I can easily see if the request is valid. Your channel doesnt have to be big or anything, Ive given out keys to channels that only has 10 subscribers. I even had people that started small Wordpress blogs solely with the intention to review a game we made (and they did!) Make sure all your social media channels are listed and easy to find. Makes it easy for me to quickly get an estimate on how big of reach your channel or site has. 3. Provide a valid email and make sure its easy visible on your site or channel I get so many requests from emails like [email protected] and if they state they are working for Site X I need to be able to verify that easily. So providing a About Us section where authors and their emails are listed is essential for me so I know its a valid request. I understand not everyone wants to put their email on a website but then I wont be able to send a key. If youre a freelancer writing for numerous publications I would recommend putting your email in your description. 4. Be precise on what youre requesting Recently I got a review request from a YouTuber and weve been emailing back for almost three days now. All together there are 8 emails and he still hasnt said which game he wants to play (and for what format). If he had read this article before emailing me (which would have been impossible since it wasnt written yet but anyways) and right off the bat stated what game and for what platform he wanted he would have gotten the key three days ago. Now I had to email him back with more questions getting him to provide all the info I need. 5. Get back to me when you have played the game This is not necessary but I think its a sign of courtesy. Its all about relationships and if I see a familiar name in the inbox Ill always follow up. Youre also more likely to be on top of my list when we have new games to send out codes to. So maintaining your relationships with the developers is really important. Also if you email me and ask me to share your video or article I will do that which helps your channel or site to grow. Its just good for everyone So, to sum this up Write a good email Have a good looking site or channel Have a valid email and list it on your site or channel Be precise in what youre requesting (platform and region) Get back to me after youve played the game Ive given out keys to people who havent met all these criteria. These arent rules, just a few tips to make the progress go more smoothly. If youre interested in one of our games just drop me an email and well figure everything out together. But following these steps will help Thank you so much for reading this and I hope it helps. If you have any comments or if you disagree feel free to comment or drop me a tweet. @MikaelForslind PR & Marketing Manager Zoink Games (This is a repost from our blog on our website) Girl Meets World Season 3 Latest Spoilers, News & Update: Check Out Whos Coming Back; Would Shawn Hunter Help Resolve Mayas Identity Crisis? While Riley (Rowan Blanchard) and Maya (Sabrina Carpenter) head upstate in the next episode of Disney's popular series "Girl Meets World," they bump along a familiar face. Rider Strong, the actor who portrays Shawn Hunter, will make his first appearance in the third season in an episode titled "Girl Meets Upstate." Hello Shawn Hunter The Wrap got an exclusive photo of Rider Strong on the set of Disney's Channel "Girl Meets World." Strong will reportedly portray Shawn Hunter, best friend of Cory (Ben Savage). In the photo, Shawn Hunter is seen reunited with best friend Cory alongside Topanga (Danielle Fishel) and Maya's mother Katy (Chery Texiera). According to Cartermatt, "Girl Meets World's" sixth episode is one of the most anticipated by fans. "Girl Meets Upstate" will see Maya and Riley head on a ski lodge trip. Set outside of New York, Riley helps Maya find her true artistic voice. However, they forgot to tell Cory and Topanga where they were going. Disney hasn't revealed how Shawn Hunter could affect the storyline. Influence has been the only triangle. There's me, and you, and what I become because I love you. People change people. And change them back. Girl Meets Writers (@GMWWriters) June 24, 2016 Finding Maya's True Identity Fans of "Girl Meets World" couldn't wait for the love triangle to be resolved soon. Some fans speculate that Maya's ski trip would somehow make her realize she doesn't like Lucas. However, according to spoilers, "Girl Meets Upstate" will focus more on how Riley and Maya maintain their friendship despite the constant challenges they face being in high school. Christian Today said that Riley will bring Maya to Hunter, hoping that he could help her friend find her artistic herself. Hunter is said to be more than willing to help the girls out. "Girl Meets World" airs Fridays at 8:30 p.m. ET on Disney Channel. However, there will be no episode on July 1 as people are mostly likely busy preparing for Fourth of July. "Girl Meets World" will resume air time on July 8 on Disney Channel. Check out the promo video for the next episode below. CSULB alum wins gold at the 38th Long Beach Marathon which was his first PHILOMATH A 45-year-old Philomath man was killed late Wednesday night in a series of explosions and a house fire on North 18th Street, law enforcement officials confirmed Thursday morning. Philomath Police Chief Ken Rueben said an Oregon State Police investigation team discovered the body of Christopher Kroko Evans in the charred rubble. Property tax records show Evans as the owner of the 1,040-square-foot, three-bedroom home at 127 N. 18th St. It looks like mishandling of fireworks, Rueben said about the possible cause. It looks like he was making homemade fireworks. We think he was doing that, but we dont know how he was doing that in the house. A neighbor who lives about a block away from the home said he heard a lot of explosions, and others reported hearing a noise like fireworks. Evans, who was partially paralyzed, was apparently a smoker, and Rueben said that could have contributed to an accident with explosive materials, but nobody knows for sure at this point. We may not ever know, Rueben said about a definitive cause. With those kinds of things, when they burn, they basically disappear. We found some small remnants of packaging of fireworks-making materials. A number of emergency response agencies were at the scene Thursday morning, including the Linn-Benton Fire Investigation Team, which was evaluating evidence in an effort to determine what caused the fire. No official information on the cause has been released. A representative from the Oregon State Police arson and explosives unit was also investigating not because arson is suspected, but to determine how explosives may have factored into the blast. Philomath Fire & Rescue was dispatched to the home at 11:17 p.m. Wednesday. Firefighters came upon a dangerous scene and a fully involved house fire. There were multiple explosions upon our arrival, said Philomath Fire & Rescue safety officer Rich Saalsaa, who was on the first engine to arrive. We had to kind of stay back until we were sure the scene was safe. I would say knockdown was probably within 15 minutes or so. By the time that occurred, however, the home had been destroyed. Rueben arrived at the fire about a half-hour after the original call to find the house burned to the ground. Very rarely do you have that happen unless theres a major accelerant inside, said Rueben, referring to the fires intensity. The fire department, they were fighting the thing for a couple hours to get it all the way out. Saalsaa said firefighters put a master stream on the blaze from the big nozzle on top of the engine that pumps about 1,000 gallons per minute to cool it down quickly. We had a gas line ruptured on one side, we had electrical lines down, Saalsaa said. We had lots of fire everywhere. We actually got it knocked down pretty well. Along with the other agencies, the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also was at the scene. Last night we found some blasting caps, and anytime we find something like that and theres a fire nearby, we have to have the bomb squad come by and take possession of them, Rueben said. An adjoining property owned by Debra Thorpe was damaged by the fire, but the neighboring building and its contents appeared to have mostly survived. Thorpe also owns a liquor store across a small parking lot from the building that was damaged. Philomath Fire Chief Tom Miller said he was proud of his department for being able to save the neighboring structure. Philomath Fire & Rescue received emergency support from the Monroe and Corvallis fire departments, with an estimated 25 firefighters working the blaze. We actually called a second alarm on this fire just given the size of the fire and (the fact that) this building was also involved, said Saalsaa, pointing toward one of the structures owned by Thorpe. There was a garage in the back that was also involved. The second alarm was dispatched at 11:35 p.m., and water was poured onto the house for just over 90 minutes. A new triplex sits on the north side of the house at the corner of 18th and College streets. A couple of broken windows could be seen on the back of the building that was facing the burning home. Rueben said there were also shrapnel chunks embedded in the building, but otherwise there was no serious damage. Everything indicates it went straight up, the explosion, based on the damage, Rueben said. He pointed out that a far wall was still standing at the home site, another indication that the explosion had not blasted outward. On the neighboring triplex, Rueben said the outcome was very lucky because there are families with little kids over there. No damage estimates were immediately available. July 31, 1925 June 10, 2016 Barbara Jean Myers, beloved mother, died Friday, June 10, 2016, in La Conner, Washington. She was born July 31, 1925, to Verna and Golden Husbands in Portland. Mrs. Myers married H. Joe Myers on Nov. 26, 1947, in Corvallis. Both were graduates of Oregon State College and remained life-long Beaver fans and proud Oregonians. Mr. Myers died in 2006. Barbara and Joe Myers dedicated themselves to a life of community service that was inspiring to all who knew them. While Mr. Myers was employed as a 4-H agent in Linn County and Marion County, Mrs. Myers volunteered as a 4-H Club leader, Campfire leader and Methodist Youth Fellowship leader. Professionally, Mrs. Myers worked as a medical laboratory technologist and volunteered for decades in blood bank drives. Mrs. Myers devoted many years to building the Methodist churchs camping programs into meaningful opportunities for friendship and spiritual growth. Her own church camping experience began in the 1940s while a student at Oregon State College and president of the Wesley Foundation. Recognizing the importance of outdoor experiences in contributing to spiritual growth, Mrs. Myers developed small group camping at a church retreat cabin on the North Santiam River and went on to pioneer primitive camping at the church camp on Loon Lake. Later, she was instrumental in establishing trail camping for women, serving as the first dean of a trail camp at Suttle Lake. Mrs. Myers served on the Camping and Retreat Ministries Committee of the Oregon-Idaho Conference of the United Methodist Church for over 25 years and served two terms on the National Camping Committee. She enjoyed singing old camp songs around a campfire her entire life! When Mr. Myers was named State 4-H leader in 1967, they moved back to Corvallis where they were regulars at every kind of university sporting event. Always working as a team, they became involved in the Partners of the Americas program in Costa Rica, working in different parts of the country, and they loved to host their Costa Rican friends who visited Oregon on exchange programs. They also undertook a variety of projects at the Oregon 4-H Center, once again demonstrating their shared commitment to creating opportunities for outdoor education and youth development. Mrs. Myers loved to travel and together they visited every state and every continent, sharing many adventures. A highlight was a return trip to introduce Costa Rica with their children and grandchildren, a trip now fondly remembered by the family. Her last big adventure was moving to La Conner, Washington, where she lived for 10 years near her daughter, celebrating two weddings and the births of three great-grandchildren, still happy to explore new territory and make new friends. Mrs. Myers is survived by her daughter, Jo Anne Myers-Ciecko and husband Jim Ciecko; son Danial J. Myers and wife Tauna Myers; grandchildren Alena Ciecko and husband Adonis Ducksworth, Lisa Ciecko and husband Brendan ODonnell, James Ciecko and partner Jeff Schnaeble, and Robert Root and wife Gail Root; and great-grandchildren Luella and Maya Ducksworth, Devin ODonnell, and Sylvia and Frances Root. Arrangements are in the care of Evans Funeral Chapel and Crematory Inc. in Anacortes, Washington, and the San Juan Islands. To share memories of Barbara please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com. This log includes incidents in which there might have been a public disturbance or a risk to the public. Information comes from the Corvallis Police Department, the Benton County Sheriffs Office and Oregon State Police. It does not include all calls for service. The status of incidents might change after further investigation. Locations are approximate. People arrested or suspected in crimes are considered innocent until proven otherwise. Corvallis Police Department TUESDAY, JUNE 28 COERCION: 9:27 p.m., 1450 N.W. Division St. A woman reported being grabbed by a man and pulled towards his apartment. Officers reported that the man was later identified as Matthew Monahan, 34, of Corvallis. Monahan reportedly corroborated the woman's story. Monahan was arrested and charged with coercion and harassment and booked into the Benton County Jail. BURGLARY: 1:13 p.m., 1220 N.W. Kings Blvd. Officers responded to Therapy Associates and Renewable Energy Associates for a reported burglary. Therapy Associates representatives said the building was broken into but nothing was reported missing. Renewable Energy Associates representatives reported that an impact drill, volt meters and torque driver were missing. Officers reported that several other valuable items and cash were left undisturbed at the scene. SUNDAY, JUNE 19 DUII: 3:07 a.m., Northwest 29th Street and Grant Avenue. Jules Fajer, 21, of Corvallis was charged with DUII following a traffic stop. Fajer had a reported blood alcohol content of 0.14 percent. Fajer was processed and released as the Benton County Jail was closed. Benton County Sheriff's Office MONDAY, JUNE 27 DOMESTIC ASSAULT: 5:44 p.m., 24000 block of Gellatly Way. Deputies responded to a reported domestic assault. Connie Sharlene Tullock, 62, of Philomath was arrested and charged with domestic assault and booked into the Benton County Jail. Chris Bentley knows that a wildfire will hit Benton County its only a matter of time. We have several wildfires every year, and weve been fortunate that weve caught them, said Bentley, a senior planner with the Benton County Community Development Department. But a certain percentage of wildfires do escape and one of these days its going to happen here. Bentley and several local wildfire experts hosted an open house Tuesday night at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library to discuss the Benton County Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Adopted in 2009 after a yearlong planning process, the 112-page document lays out a framework for reducing the risk of wildfire in the county. Ask any fire service guy and hell tell you its not if a wildfire is going to happen here, its when, Bentley said. My goal is that when a wildfire happens here, youre going to go home and your house is going to be there and youre going to be ready and know what to do next. Officials are updating the 7-year-old plan and are looking for public input to make changes and help increase awareness. One of the chief things weve accomplished as part of the plan is education. Since the plan was adopted, weve spoken with hundreds of people, Bentley said. The (September 2014) Chip Ross Park fire really helped with awareness. No one got hurt, but it alerted people to the fact that it can happen here and we were this close from it getting away. But that was 2014 and people are already forgetting. Since 2009, officials have created several partnerships with local private organizations in an effort to improve preparedness and identify access-limited neighborhoods rural areas of the county where there is often one way in and out of the community. But there are still several access-limited neighborhoods with 20 or more homes in the county that need additional partnerships and support from the community, said Andrew Monaco, engineer associate with Benton County Public Works. Its opportunity-based and the momentum from the community really helps, Monaco said. We dont have a real way to prioritize them; its been opportunity-based. When we had opportunities to get work done, weve been doing it. Dane Rogers lives in an access-limited area outside of the city of Corvallis and attended Tuesday nights meeting to learn new ways he could stay safe during a wildfire. I liked being on the side of being prepared and being able to help, Rogers said. In the summer, were always clearing away brush but there are more things we can do. I think everyone needs that kick in the pants. Rogers said hes well aware of how important it is to prepare for an emergency. He was living in Loveland, Colorado, in 1976 when the The Big Thompson Flood the deadliest flash flood in the states history hit and dropped more than a foot of rainfall in a four-hour period around Estes Park. The flood killed 143 people and injured an estimated 150 more. We were told it was a 1,000-year-event, but it happened to us, Rogers said. Its the kind of thing that wakes you up. It sticks with me. It still leaves me concerned. I definitely feel (Benton County) is not paying much attention to these things. But they happen and we need to be prepared. To learn more about the Benton County Community Wildfire Protection Plan, residents can visit the plans website. To learn more about steps to prepare for wildfires, such as landscaping tips for wildfire safety, fire-resistant home construction materials and evacuation, visit Benton Countys Wildfire Protection webpage. To provide feedback or ask questions about the protection plan, residents are asked to email Bentley at chris.bentley@co.benton.or.us or Pat MacMeekin, community wildfire forester at the Oregon Department of Forestry at patrick.a.macmeekin@oregon.gov. Bestandige Growetterlage und ihre Folgen : Mildes Wetter im Oktober - Was das fur den Winter bedeutet FDP urges new law : Privileges would strengthen Bonns status as UN city BONN Liberal politician calls for Berlin to pass law, creating favorable conditions for international organizations which consider establishing themselves in Bonn. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken For some time now, work has been going on at the Foreign Ministry to come up with a framework for special conditions that would be applied to international institutions and German organizations working internationally which establish themselves in Germany. This would be connected to certain privileges, immunities and conveniences, for example from a tax standpoint as is common in Switzerland for international organizations and NGOs. It is unclear, however when such a law might be passed. The Liberal Party (FDP) is now appealing to parliament members from the region to get to work in Berlin on passing such a law. Bonn has already proposed this type of law several times because it is a competitive factor when up against other European cities. After the 17 million in funding provided by the government to support Bonns international role, a legal framework for international organizations is needed to go with it, believes FDP politician Ulli Hauschild. Federal Building Minister Renate Hendricks emphasized at the signing of the agreement that the federal government would, in the future, emphatically work towards establishing international organizations in the city. It is in Germanys interest that Bonn, next to Geneva and Vienna, is established as a permanent European UN location, argued Hauschild. An attempt of the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) to settle in Bonn more than ten years ago, collapsed partly due to a missing framework, recognizing international law and subsequent diplomatic and tax privileges, recalls the FDP politician. A functioning framework of conditions for international institutions would make it easier for them to put down roots here. Article Protecting the worlds oceans an important goal of Germanys climate diplomacy The worlds oceans are vital to our survival. They regulate the global climate and are a source of food and income for billions of people. Only a very small part of the seas enjoys legal protection, however. Our diplomats are working in New York right now to change this state of affairs. Ride the garlic train Some big changes on the rails for the 2016 Gilroy Garlic Festival, coming July 29-31. You want the good news first or the bad news? Heres the good, since you have been such good readers. For the first time there is a train that can take as many as 1,000 people to the festival from San Jose, or from as far north as San Francisco. The festival has chartered a special passenger train that will leave San Joses Diridon Station at 10 a.m. and arrive in Gilroy at 11 a.m. There will be buses to bring passengers from Gilroys station to the fest. The train leaves Gilroy at 5 p.m. It costs $25 above the $20 admission for the festival, which is a steal if you consider how it beats the traffic and parking. But heres the catch: you have to buy tickets in advance at the Gilroy Garlic Festival website. There are 800 seats on the train and room for 200 people to stand. Grab a seat quickly! Heres the bad news. For the first time the festival is charging $10 for parking and theres no parking near the festival. You will have to park at a site on Day Road or at Gavilan Community College and take free buses to the Christmas Hill Park site. Festival organizers say the cost of running the buses for free has left them bone dry, financially. The $250,000 they expect to raise from parking should offset the bus charges and allow a good chunk of the $3 million they expect to gross to go to local charities. The festival has raised $11 million since 1979. Each of the 4,000 volunteers who works at the festival earns money for the for one of 150 charities of their choice. More good news: on Friday, July 29, South Valley locals can take $5 off the admission price and locals can also buy a three-day pass for $30. That includes residents from Morgan Hill to Aromas and Hollister. You can only buy those tickets at the gate with proof of residence. You can ride a bicycle to the fest and save all transit fees. There is a free bike valet that will keep your wheels secure. Festival organizers have drawn 85,000 to 135,000 people over the years, depending mostly on the weather. Among this years new highlights are a Kansas City-based barbecue contest, with a $7,500 purse for the best cooking, some big-name country bands and a revamped childrens area. 'Feels Like Home Season 2' offers something real and tangible to think about; takes home a pertinent point - if your intentions are good, there is nothing in life that isn't achievable. Germany to tighten surveillance activities of its spy agency Sputnik News Wed Jun 29, 2016 8:4AM The German cabinet has approved new measures that would tighten controls over the surveillance activities of the country's intelligence service. The move comes a year after the spy agency came under fire for its cooperation with the US National Security Agency (NSA) to carry out espionage on high-ranking European officials. The cabinet agreed upon the 60-page proposal to carry out the long-delayed reform in Germany's foreign intelligence agency, Bundesnachrichtendienst, commonly known by its acronym BND, the news agency DPA said. The reform package was still need to be finalized by the parliament. The new measures would prevent the BND from conducting espionage on countries in the EU except in certain cases, like suspicion of a terrorist activity aimed at the Germany's security. Moreover, the measures would ban the BND from engaging in economic spying. The reform draft also calls for establishing a new independent oversight panel, composed of judges from Germany's highest court and chief federal prosecutor's office, to approve and monitor strategic foreign espionage activities. On April 30, 2015, a report surfaced that the BND had helped the NSA carry out "political espionage" on high-ranking French officials and the European Commission. The revelations sparked a heated debate in Germany about the role of the intelligence agency and the damage that the scandal can cause for the country's relations with other European nations. Almost a week after the publication of the report, the national daily Suddeutsche Zeitung and other German media said the BND stopped sharing internet surveillance data with the American agency after it failed to provide the required explanation. But it was not the only scandalous report about the BND. Results of an investigation released in October showed that the NSA had handed lists of European government offices as targets for espionage to the BND, demanding the results be sent to Washington. The report concluded that the BND had snubbed many demands of the NSA but still maintained cooperation with the service. In late April, Berlin abruptly replaced its spy chief Gerhard Schindler with Bruno Kahl. Schindler, 63, who had led the BND since 2012, took an early retirement from July 1. The change in the BND leadership also represented the "organizational and legal consequences" of work of a committee investigating the BND's connections to the NSA. Reports said the change at the top of the BND was also related to the agency's new plans for reforms while the new chief could better monitor a complex move of the BND headquarters from the western city of Pullach to Berlin. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Says U.S. Diplomat In Moscow Altercation A Spy June 30, 2016 by Mike Eckel Russia's Foreign Ministry says a U.S. diplomat who was involved in an altercation with a Russian guard outside the Moscow Embassy was a spy returning from an unspecified intelligence operation. The June 30 announcement comes amid a slew of complaints by both sides of improper treatment of diplomatic staff in each other's country. The public statements represent a remarkable escalation with echoes of Cold War spy capers between Moscow and Washington. The U.S. diplomat suffered a broken shoulder after being tackled on a sidewalk outside the U.S. Embassy compound in central Moscow on June 6, according to a U.S. official who spoke to RFE/RL about the incident. The guard who was said to have tackled the man was part of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) division that both guards and monitors the embassy. That led to speculation that the American had been specifically targeted as an intelligence officer, a question raised by The Washington Post, which first reported on the incident. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on June 30 that the guard attempted to stop the man to check his identity, but the man struck the guard in the face with his elbow before running into the embassy. "In the tussle that followed, the unknown man shoved away the guard employee and disappeared into the embassy," she said. "It's well-known that this very diplomat was in fact an agent of the CIA. He was returning, in disguise, after conducting an intelligence operation the previous night," Zakharova said. She called the report that the man suffered a broken shoulder "in the realm of fantasy" and described the guard as a member of the Russian police. "The Americans should be saying thank you to the sentry who was diligently fulfilling his duties," she said. A spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in Moscow did not immediately return messages seeking comment. A CIA spokesman declined to comment on the report. Intelligence officers -- Russian, American, and other -- routinely work under diplomatic cover when posted to foreign countries, providing them with a modicum of legal protection, and such duties are frequently an open secret for foreign counterintelligence agencies. A U.S. official told RFE/RL that diplomats in Moscow and Washington have met with their Russian counterparts to complain about the incident and others that come as U.S.-Russian relations sink to their lowest point since the Cold War, following sanctions imposed against Russia for its actions in Ukraine and with increasing NATO and Russian military presences on each side of Russia's western border. U.S. diplomats in Moscow have reported being pulled over by Moscow traffic police about five dozen times over the past month, an unusual number in a city where diplomats are usually afforded leeway for things like minor traffic violations. The embassy spokesman this week reported returning home to find cigarettes in his apartment; another official reportedly returned home to find the water taps turned on. Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/russia-us-diplomat- moscow-altercation-cia-spy/27831243.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release SOUTHWEST ASIA, June 29, 2016 U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Iraq and Syria yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. Operation Inherent Resolve - Targeted Operations Against ISIL Terrorists Officials reported details of the latest strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports. Strikes in Syria Attack, bomber, fighter, ground attack and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 15 strikes in Syria: -- Near Abu Kamal, eight strikes struck two ISIL tactical units, an ISIL intelligence training center, two ISIL-used bridges, an ISIL headquarters, an ISIL training camp and an ISIL bed-down location and destroyed an ISIL vehicle. -- Near Manbij, six strikes struck five separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed two ISIL fighting positions, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL anti-air artillery piece. -- Near Mara, a strike destroyed an ISIL vehicle bomb. Strikes in Iraq Bomber, fighter and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 17 strikes in Iraq, coordinated with and in support of Iraq's government: -- Near Qaim, five strikes struck two ISIL weapons caches, an ISIL finance distribution center and two ISIL communication facilities. -- Near Rutbah, a strike struck an ISIL vehicle bomb facility. -- Near Fallujah, a strike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL fighting position, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL vehicle bomb and denied ISIL access to terrain. -- Near Mosul, three strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed two ISIL vehicles and suppressed an ISIL mortar position. -- Near Qayyarah, five strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL fighting position, two ISIL bunkers, four ISIL rocket rails, two ISIL rocket systems, an ISIL excavator, an ISIL rocket propelled grenade system and ISIL-used engineering equipment. -- Near Ramadi, two strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL vehicle. Task force officials define a strike as one or more kinetic events that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single, sometimes cumulative, effect. Therefore, officials explained, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone ISIL vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against buildings, vehicles and weapon systems in a compound, for example, having the cumulative effect of making those targets harder or impossible for ISIL to use. Accordingly, officials said, they do not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target. Ground-based artillery fired in counterfire or in fire support to maneuver roles is not classified as a strike. Part of Operation Inherent Resolve The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said. Coalition nations that have conducted strikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations that have conducted strikes in Syria include the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address OIR Spokesman: Local Forces in Iraq, Syria Increase Pressure on ISIL By Cheryl Pellerin DoD News, Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON, June 29, 2016 Iraqi forces have begun working toward Mosul after their victory in Fallujah this week against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and the Syrian Democratic Forces are tightening a cordon around Manbij in an operation led by the Syrian Arab coalition, the Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman said today. Speaking live via videoconference from a command post in the Middle East, Army Col. Christopher Garver gave an update on the ISIL fight after offering condolences on the U.S.-led coalition's behalf after deadly attacks yesterday on the Istanbul Ataturk International Airport in Turkey's capital city. Also this morning, Defense Secretary Ash Carter called Turkish Minister of Defense Fikri Isik to express his deep condolences following the attack. Carter strongly condemned the attack as a cowardly assault on a stalwart NATO ally and enduring partner in efforts to confront the threat of terrorism, according to a statement by DoD Deputy Press Secretary Gordon Trowbridge. The defense secretary also reaffirmed that the department will work closely with Turkish allies to defeat terrorists of any kind. Victory in Fallujah Beginning with Iraq, Garver said the world watched as Iraqi fighters raised the Iraqi flag over Fallujah June 17, and Iraqi military leaders announced the city's full liberation June 26. "Since that time we have seen rapid clearing operations within the city as [Iraq] consolidates its gains and prepares for future operations, which will include handing over the security of Fallujah to the holding force" of local police and Sunni tribal fighters, the colonel added. The assault phase of the ground campaign began May 21, and during that time the coalition conducted 106 strikes in support of Iraqi operations, he said. "We know there is interest in the physical state of Fallujah after the battle," Garver said, adding that press reports indicate that the city is in better shape than Ramadi was last year after its liberation. "If initial reports [are] accurate, we hope this will bode well for getting the residents of Fallujah back into their homes as quickly as possible. We do not have an estimated timeline from the Iraqi government yet but all parties involved in the care of the displaced citizens are working to develop that now," he said. In the Tigris River Valley, Iraqi forces are conducting shaping operations to prepare for the eventual liberation of Mosul. On the western access, Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service forces and 9th Iraqi Army Division brigades continue to push the attack north out of Beiji, Garver said. Fighting on the western access has ranged been between light and moderate, but Iraqi forces continue to make steady gains toward Qayyarah. Over the past week, the coalition has conducted 34 strikes in the Qayyarah region in support of these operations, the colonel added. Toward Manbij In Syria, in addition to progress made by Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian Arab Coalition toward Manbij, SAC forces are fighting to establish footholds on the southern and western edges of the city, Garver said. "They've seized the entrances to an intricate tunnel complex on the southern edge, which will reduce [ISIL's] ability to relocate fighters inside the city," he added, noting that SAC forces have seized more than 10,000 documents from the outlying edges, including textbooks, propaganda posters, cell phones, laptops, maps and digital storage devices. "Exploitation of this information is ongoing to better understand [ISIL] networks and techniques, including the systems [used] to manage the flow of foreign fighters into Syria and Iraq," the colonel said. To protect citizens inside the city, Garver said SAC leaders have assumed a slower and more deliberate rate of advance to clear booby traps and homemade bombs and to avoid civilian casualties, although ISIL continues to establish fortified defenses in the city. "We expect the fighting to continue to be intense and progress slow but deliberate due to the strategic importance [ISIL] places on this city for keeping lines of communication between Manbij, Raqqa and outside Syria open," he said. Increasing Pressure In southeastern Syria, Garver said that partner opposition forces running the Tanf Garrison launched an attack in the past 48 hours to seize the town of Abu Kamal in the Euphrates River Valley. "The announced purpose of this attack by the New Syrian Army, also known as the KAA, is to liberate Abu Kamal and cut [ISIL's] military supply lines in the Euphrates Valley between Syria and Iraq," he said. "Cutting these supply lines will impact the flow of foreign fighters and supplies between the upper and lower Euphrates Valley." Garver said that as local fighters with coalition support have worked to interdict lines of communication between Iraq and Syria in the north near Sinjar Mountain on Highway 43 and in the south near Rutbah on Highway 10, "we are now working to interdict the last major line of communication between the two countries." Doing so, he added, will better isolate ISIL operations in the two countries, limit high-speed routes to reinforcements, resupply and foreign fighters flowing between the countries, and increase pressure across the so-called caliphate. Tidal Wave II Operation Inherent Resolve continues to target ISIL illicit oil and natural gas activities in an operation called Tidal Wave II, Garver said, whose targets include oil sites, equipment and vehicles for transporting oil and natural gas. Since September 2014, the coalition has conducted about 300 strikes against oil-related facilities, infrastructure and equipment, he said, and last week the coalition conducted eight strikes in support of Tidal Wave II near Raqqa in Syria and Mosul and Qayyarah in Iraq. Coalition airstrikes have attacked ISIL oil tankers, oil and gas separation plants, wellheads and pumping infrastructure, he said, and the self-proclaimed ISIL ministry of oil headquarters in Mosul, affecting management of illicit oil operations. "The Tidal Wave strikes affect ISIL's ability to fund governance activities and terror operations," Garver added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Eisenhower CSG Completes First OIR Missions Navy News Service Story Number: NNS160629-09 Release Date: 6/29/2016 11:01:00 AM From Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs MEDITERRANEAN SEA (NNS) -- The Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (Ike CSG) launched its first air strikes in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, June 28. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, embarked aboard aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike), conducted strikes against the terrorist group ISIL in Libya and Syria. Rear Adm. Jesse Wilson, Ike CSG commander, said the strikes are vital to support counter-terrorism efforts in the region. "The superb efforts made by the men and women of this crew will be critical to continuing this fight," Wilson said. "Ike CSG brings a flexible, mobile and lethal multi-mission capable force to work with our allies and partner nations to eliminate the terrorist group ISIL and the threat they pose to the region and wider international community." The CVW-3 aircraft flying from Ike in the Eastern Mediterranean joined aircraft flying missions from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) in the 5th Fleet area of operations. "Our current position gives more flexibility with our mission," said Capt. Jeffrey Anderson, commander, CVW 3. "It allows the air wing to fly sorties to support the ongoing effort to dismantle and roll back terrorist networks in Syria, Iraq and elsewhere." Wilson credited the carrier strike group's readiness on the extensive training cycle leading up to deployment and the optimized fleet response plan (OFRP) process of generating ready forces. "This is why we train and deploy," Wilson said. "We're ready to support the mission wherever and whenever we're needed. We have a crew of highly-trained, warfighting professionals ready for this mission and with the support of our family and friends back home; I know we, along with our other regional and coalition partners, will be successful." Ike CSG is deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Keel Authenticated for Future Littoral Combat Ship Charleston Navy News Service Story Number: NNS160629-13 Release Date: 6/29/2016 12:45:00 PM From Program Executive Office Littoral Combat Ships Public Affairs MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- A ceremony was hosted to celebrate the keel authentication of future USS Charleston (LCS 18), the ninth Independence variant littoral combat ship, June 28. Charlotte Riley, wife of former Charleston mayor Joseph Riley, serves as the ship's sponsor and honorary member and advocate for the crew. U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-AL) served as the honorary keel authenticator during the ceremony and was present to weld his initials into the keel plate. "The future USS Charleston stands as a testament to the strong and resilient spirit of her namesake city," said Capt. Tom Anderson, LCS program manager. "Once complete, this highly versatile warship will sail the world's seas, carrying with her the backing of a city steeped in naval history." Built by an industry team led by Austal USA, Charleston will be approximately 421 feet in length and have a width of nearly 104 feet. LCS is a modular, reconfigurable ship, with three types of mission packages including surface warfare, mine countermeasures, and anti-submarine warfare. The LCS class consists of the Freedom variant and Independence variant, designed and built by two industry teams. The Freedom variant team is led by Lockheed Martin -- for LCS 1 and follow-on odd-numbered hulls. The Independence variant team is led by Austal USA -- for LCS 6 and follow-on even-numbered hulls. The Program Executive Office Littoral Combat Ships is responsible for delivering and sustaining littoral mission capabilities to the fleet. Delivering high-quality warfighting assets while balancing affordability and capability is key to supporting the nation's maritime strategy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Wasp Amphibious Ready Group On-loads 22nd MEU, Heads to 6th Fleet Navy News Service Story Number: NNS160629-07 Release Date: 6/29/2016 10:49:00 AM By Lt. j.g. Dana Ayers, Navy Public Affairs Support Element ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) completed the on-load of over 2,500 Marines and equipment from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) June 28. This is the ARG's final step before heading across the Atlantic for deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation. "Loading an entire MEU onto three ships is a complicated operation involving the coordinated movements of aircraft, amphibious craft, personnel, and equipment," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Mark Chapman, USS Wasp's combat cargo officer. "Our crew made it look easy and kept everyone safe in the process." The Wasp ARG/22nd MEU team will provide combatant commanders a versatile sea-based force that can be tailored to a variety of maritime missions, ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief. "The Sailors and Marines in this ARG are a winning team that is trained to fight," said Deputy Commodore, Amphibious Squadron 6 Daniel Blackburn. "We worked very hard during the last several months to form a cohesive unit and look forward to operating together during our deployment." The Wasp ARG is comprised of Commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 6, the 22nd MEU, amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) -- both homeported at Naval Station Norfolk -- and amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), homeported at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia. The ARG also includes detachments from the Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22, Tactical Air Control Squadron 22, Fleet Surgical Team 2, and Assault Craft Unit 4. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address P-8A Poseidon Comes to 4th Fleet Navy News Service Story Number: NNS160629-02 Release Date: 6/29/2016 9:28:00 AM By Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Mallory Wasik, U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs COMALAPA, El Salvador (NNS) -- The P-8A Poseidon, one of the Navy's newest aircraft and the platform currently replacing the aging P-3C Orion, arrived at Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Comalapa, El Salvador June 23. Capable of surveillance and reconnaissance while simultaneously conducting long range maritime and littoral operations, the P-8A is scheduled to begin deployments in the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility late next year. In preparation, a crew from the "Tridents" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 conducted a distinguished visitor orientation flight on the Poseidon aircraft. Led by Capt. James W. Robinson, deputy commodore at Command Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing (CPRW) 11, and Cmdr. Michael Borelli, VP-26 commanding officer, the P-8A arrived a day early to prepare for distinguished visitors and orientation flights. The first group of distinguished visitors included the U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador Jean Manes, along with several El Salvadorian senior military officials. The group was greeted by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet Rear Adm. George Ballance and CSL Comalapa Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Donald J. Williams. Following formal introductions, the group was given an orientation brief about the capabilities of the aircraft and departed on an 1 1/2-hour flight. During the flight, the observers were able to gain hands-on experience and an increased awareness of the capabilities of the P-8A. The group asked numerous questions regarding the aircraft and expected operational capabilities, all of which were fielded by the Trident aircrew. "The tour was well organized and incredibly useful for discussion of the capabilities and coordination with our El Salvadoran counterparts," said Marine Col. Manuel Fabio Calderon, El Salvador 2nd Air Brigade commander. He also remarked he was "grateful for the opportunity to fly and learn about the capabilities of the P-8A." The second group to fly was also greeted by Ballance and Williams. Distinguished visitors included the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Barkin, El Salvador Air Force Chief of Staff Col. Salvador Hernandez Vega, Chief of Intelligence Col. Alfredo Solano and Chief of Operations Col. Jorge Miranda. This group also received the orientation briefing before flying over the Pacific Ocean. The P-8A is a derivative of a modified Boeing 737-800ERX airliner, bringing together a reliable airframe and high-bypass turbo fan jet engine with a fully connected, state-of-the-art open architecture mission system. It combines superior performance and reliability with an advanced mission system that ensures maximum interoperability in support of operational efforts. For over 10 years, the P-3C has been flying out of CSL Comalapa to support counter-narcotic and counter-illicit trafficking operations. The new aircraft will continue to support Joint Interagency Task Force-South missions out of CSL Comalapa. The P-8A Poseidon is expected to make its first deployment to CSL Comalapa and U.S. 4th Fleet late in 2017. U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet supports U.S. Southern Command's joint and combined military operations by employing maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address San Antonio Completes COMPTUEX Navy News Service Story Number: NNS160629-16 Release Date: 6/29/2016 1:57:00 PM From USS San Antonio Public Affairs ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines from the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) and the embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit completed composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX), May 26. COMPTUEX is designed to prepare and assess San Antonio and the rest of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, individually and as a unit, prior to deployment. "The goal of this exercise is to demonstrate that the San Antonio can accomplish the full range of missions we may be tasked with during our deployment, and I would say we met that goal," said Capt. Mike Patterson, commanding officer of San Antonio. "We demonstrated that we could operate successfully as an integrated ARG/MEU team under very challenging conditions and in a complex environment." During the exercise, San Antonio ran through a series of drills that tested the crew's ability to respond to different scenarios, such as maritime patrol, humanitarian assistance and visit, board, search and seizure operations. COMPTUEX marked the completion of the integrated phase of the ship's training cycle, as well as the certification of San Antonio as deployment ready. Key components of COMPTUEX include communication and cooperation, not only between the ships, but also between the Sailors and Marines aboard. "We are designed to operate as one team," said Patterson. "The MEU needs the support of the ARG, and the ARG has only limited missions that we can perform without the MEU. It was great to see the Navy and Marine Corps team come together and execute our missions flawlessly." The Wasp ARG is composed of Amphibious Squadron Six, the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), San Antonio, the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), and the 22nd MEU. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Arbitration court has no jurisdiction in South China Sea: Beijing Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 6:7PM Beijing says an arbitration court hearing the dispute between China and the Philippines over the South China Sea has no jurisdiction. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, Hong Lei, said in a lengthy statement on Wednesday that Manila's unilateral lodging of the case flouted international law. "I again stress that the arbitration court has no jurisdiction in the case and on the relevant matter, and should not hold hearings or make a ruling," the spokesman said, adding, "The Philippines' unilateral lodging of the South China Sea arbitration case is contrary to international law." He further noted that Beijing would not accept any forced dispute resolution, saying, "On the issue of territory and disputes over maritime delineation, China does not accept any dispute resolution from a third party and does not accept any dispute resolution forced on China." Meanwhile, China's official Xinhua news agency said in an English-language commentary that the case would only worsen the dispute. "Manila fails to see that such an arbitration will only stir up more trouble in the South China Sea, which doesn't serve the interests of the concerned parties in the least," it said, adding that the case "even threatens to further complicate the issue by giving certain parties in the disputes the false impression they could profit by deliberately creating chaos." A little-known international tribunal based in The Hague has said it would hand down a ruling over the South China Sea on July 12. Experts say the ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), international tribunal for the peaceful resolution of disputes between nations, risks further inflaming tensions between the Philippines and China. In early 2013, Manila lodged the suit against Beijing contesting China's sweeping claims to most of the South China Sea. However, China has refused to participate in any hearings and says it will not comply with any decisions by the tribunal. Beijing has long-standing disputes over maritime territory in the South China Sea with other regional states such as Brunei, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines and Taiwan, which also claim territory in the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 4.8 million S Sudanese face hunger: UN agencies Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 5:54PM Three United Nations agencies have warned of a hunger disaster in the crisis-hit South Sudan, saying up to 4.8 million people face critical food shortages. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the UN Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and the World Food Programme (WFP) issued the warning in a joint statement released on Wednesday. "Up to 4.8 million people in South Sudan well over one-third of the population will be facing severe food shortages over the coming months, and the risk of a hunger catastrophe continues to threaten parts of the country" the statement read. It further warned of an "unprecedented" level of food insecurity in the African country, saying the worsening situation there "coincides with an unusually long and harsh annual lean season, when families have depleted their food stocks and new harvests are not expected until August." Meanwhile, the WFP said it expected to assist 3.3 million people this year with life-saving nutrition support, emergency food assistance and other aid. "We are very worried to see that food insecurity is spreading beyond conflict areas as rising prices, impassable roads and dysfunctional markets are preventing many families ... from accessing food," said Serge Tissot, FAO's acting representative in South Sudan. According to estimates by the the UN agencies, 100,000 people have fled South Sudan to other countries such as Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo over the past few months. The figure is also expected to hit 150,000 by the end of June. South Sudan plunged into chaos in December 2013, when fighting erupted in the capital, Juba, between troops loyal to President Salva Kiir and defectors led by his former deputy, Riek Machar, around Juba. The conflict soon turned into an all-out war between the army and the defectors, with the violence taking on an ethnic dimension that pitted the president's Dinka tribe against Machar's Nuer ethnic group. The ongoing violence in South Sudan comes despite a ceasefire agreement reached between government troops and rebels last August. Both sides have on numerous occasions traded accusations of violating the internationally-mediated truce. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Fighting kills 50 people in South Sudan's Wau Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 3:59PM Fifty people have been killed in South Sudan's western town of Wau during fighting mainly between a new rebel group and government troops. Moses Peter, humanitarian coordinator of the Caritas Diocese of Wau, said Wednesday that residential areas in Wau reeked of dead bodies. The town is located about 650 kilometers (over 400 miles) northwest of the capital, Juba. Peter said he had seen 50 bodies at a mortuary. He said thousands of people are taking shelter at the church and aid group sites as well as UN peacekeeping base. "The army, which is patrolling the streets here, has asked people to return to their homes but the displaced are still in fear," Peter said, adding, "They do not want to return to their homes because they do not trust the army, because they say it is the army that killed civilians." The fresh wave of fighting comes only months after the government managed to reach a peace accord with South Sudan's main militant group. However, officials in Juba announced Tuesday that a new militant group had been formed in Wau and that fighting may escalate. Reports said the new group includes former government troops, fighters from the Uganda-led rebel group, the Lord's Resistance Army, and a Sudanese militia called the 'janjaweed.' The International Organization for Migration said fierce fighting which took place on June 24-25 in Wau left many in need of help. It said relief agencies are providing emergency assistance to the displaced people. Some residents of Wau said they had no option but to take refuge in the church as their houses were completely burned in the fighting. "Many people have been killed," said John Fredrick, a resident of Wau, calling on the government to take urgent action. "If the new governor doesn't come and address us and assures us about our security, I will never return I say I will never return home. It is better I am killed and buried here in the church," said Fredrick. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, South Korea, Japan launch joint missile drill Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 7:12AM South Korea, Japan and the United States have held their first joint ballistic missile defense exercise in waters off Hawaii amid rising tensions with North Korea. The Pacific Dragon exercise held on Tuesday included a ballistic target tracking operation to test the Aegis anti-missile systems used by the United States and its two key Asian allies. "While there were no missiles fired, all participants strengthened interoperability, communication channels, data collection, and capabilities assessments," the US Pacific Command said in a statement. The trilateral drill came less than a week after North Korea flight-tested two powerful new medium-range ballistic missiles that leader Kim Jong-Un hailed as a strike threat to US military bases across the Pacific. Vice Admiral Nora Tyson, the commander of the US Third Fleet, said as well as rehearsing responses to a North Korean missile attack, the drill "enhanced the already strong relationship of all three nations participating." However, the military exercise underscores the chasm between Japan and South Korea, which have yet to move past territorial disputes and a history of war, undermining US efforts to present a united front against Pyongyang's advancing missile capabilities. The South Korean Ministry of National Defense said Seoul and Tokyo will not directly exchange information during the drill and will instead use the US as a "middleman". North Korea's Foreign Ministry has condemned the drill as "another military provocation perpetrated by the US," reiterating strategic willingness to carry out a "preemptive nuclear attack" if threatened. The participation of all three countries revealed their "hegemonic scenario for disturbing regional peace and security," a ministry spokesman was quoted as saying by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). On June 22, Pyongyang test fired two Musudan mid-range ballistic missiles, which are reported to have a theoretical range of between 2,500 and 4,000 kilometers, making them capable of reaching any part of South Korea, Japan and the US territory of Guam in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. According to the US-Korea Institute at Johns Hopkins University, North Korea's recent missile test could facilitate the development of an operational intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of striking the US mainland in less than four years. US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said last week the Musudan test underlined "the need for us to continue to do what we're doing, which is build these missile defenses of various ranges to protect both our South Korean allies, US forces on the Korean Peninsula, Japan and US territory." Seoul and Washington are currently in talks over the possible deployment of the US military's sophisticated Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD) in South Korea - a move staunchly opposed by China and Russia. North Korea, which is under harsh UN sanctions over its nuclear tests and missile launches, says it will not give up on its nuclear deterrence unless Washington ends its hostile policy toward Pyongyang and dissolves the US-led UN command in South Korea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lebanese should brace for more terrorist attacks: Security chiefs Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 4:57AM Lebanese security chiefs have warned of a heightened terrorist threat in the wake of deadly bombings in a Christian village at the border with crisis-stricken Syria. "We should not rule out that this terrorist crime is a harbinger of a wave of terrorist operations," read a Tuesday statement released after a cabinet meeting, attended by Prime Minister Tammam Salam and other security chiefs. "It could be an indicator of a new more aggressive phase of the battle with terrorist organizations, which work tirelessly to inflict harm on Lebanon and to drag it into chaos and ruin," said the statement. The warning came a day after the village of al-Qaa was targeted in two waves of bombings that killed five people and injured 31 others. The first group of bombers attacked before dawn and the second later at night, two of them blowing themselves up near a church. Security officials say Takfiri Daesh terrorists were behind the attack. There has been no claim of responsibility. The statement further called on the Lebanese nation to maintain their faith in the state and the security establishment. "This assault constitutes a qualitative transformation in the war being waged by terrorist organizations against Lebanon as a state and a nation," the statement read. "Reality dictates that we foster the highest levels of alertness and awareness and asks of all Lebanese that they confirm their absolute faith in their home and their absolute trust in the Army and security apparatus." Information Minister Ramzi Joreige said, "The Cabinet considers itself in a constant state of alert to deal with any security situation and announces that all state agencies will remain on full alert." Before the cabinet session Salam said that the terrorist attacks "came as no surprise as security forces were anticipating a new terror attack." "Terrorism doesn't differentiate between one sect and another or one area and another ... a Christian area was targeted today, but we have seen other Muslim areas under attack." The Lebanese army said it had mounted dawn raids on Syrian refugee camps, detaining 227 people for being illegally present in Lebanon. According to aid agencies, the majority of Syrian refugees have no legal status in Lebanon due to the complications and costs of obtaining or renewing residency rights under rules imposed by the Lebanese government. Interior Minister Nouhad Machnouk revealed that four of the eight bombers were Syrians, saying they were "not from the surrounding refugee camps in al-Qaa." Moreover, the Lebanese resistance movement of Hezbollah cancelled a religious gathering scheduled to be staged in southern Beirut on Tuesday evening for security concerns. Lebanon has often seen the infiltration of Takfiri elements from neighboring Syria into its territory, where they attack the civilian population or security forces with bombings. On June 12, a bomb explosion rocked the western part of the Lebanese capital, Beirut, but did not cause any casualties. Last November, however, more than 40 people were killed and dozens of others wounded after two bombings, claimed by the Takfiri Daesh militants, targeted a security post in the Bourj el-Barajneh area in the southern suburb of the Lebanese capital. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DR Congo, Angola must be 'in funding spotlight' - UN humanitarian official 29 June 2016 Following a visit to Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a senior United Nations humanitarian official today called on the international community to pay more attention to the dire needs of its residents. "These two countries are most definitely not in the political and funding spotlight in the way they need to be," John Ging, Operations Director of the Office of the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), told journalists at the UN Headquarters in New York. In the DRC, the humanitarian community has appealed for $690 million for this year, which is only 22 per cent funded, he added. Without additional funding, the capacity of aid organizations to operate will be hampered. Meanwhile, some 1.8 million people are displaced from their homes, and 7.5 million people are in need of critical life-saving assistance, according to the latest UN figures presented at the briefing. In addition, about half of the population lacks access to safe drinking water on a regular basis, which means greater exposure to water-borne diseases, such as cholera. While about 4.5 million people are food insecure, with about half of all children under the age of five malnourished. Insecurity is another key concern in the country, for the 12.4 million people living in conflict-affected areas, and for the aid workers trying to assist them. The DRC has one of the highest numbers of security incidents against aid workers in the world. Despite these challenges, there is a heightened sense of responsibility for ownership on the part of Government and local authorities, Mr. Ging said. Angola: Concerns about El Nino and yellow fever In Angola, 1.4 million people have been directly affected by El Nino, Mr. Ging said, adding that malnutrition is going up at an alarming rate. On the yellow fever outbreak, the country is struggling to get the disease under control due to the limited vaccination coverage, he said. "This is a disease that should not affect anyone in 2016 because there is vaccination," he said. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Angola's Ministry of Health are conducting a campaign to vaccinate 19 million people, but only 12.7 million doses are available, he said. The yellow fever can be transmitted by mosquitos, he said, noting that China reported cases from some migrant workers who returned home. Read moreabout WHO's campaign to fight yellow fever in Angola. The country also needs help as it is dealing with El Nino effect, yellow fever and the falling prices of oil, whose export accounts for a large portion of the country's income, he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address INTERVIEW: Conversation with top UN official on security and peace efforts in Mali 29 June 2016 The Security Council today extended the mandate of the United Nations peace operation in Mali and increased its strength to more than 15,000 peacekeepers. The decision followed a request from the UN envoy in Mali to boost support for the peacekeeping mission. Earlier this month, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Mali, Mahamat Saleh Annadif, sat down with the UN News Centre to discuss the current instability in Mali, the challenges faced by the Malian parties to implement the peace agreement signed in 2015 and the obstacles the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), which Mr. Annadif heads, faces in its support of the peace process. UN News Centre: Can you give us an overview of the conflict in Mali? Mahamat Saleh Annadif: We cannot really call it a conflict. Mali is going through a situation that is neither war, nor peace. Why? Because in 2012, after what happened in Libya, many Malians who were living there crossed the border to Northern Mali with weapons in their luggage. The majority of them had been part of [Muammar] Gaddafi's security guards and they were heavily armed. They came back to Northern Mali because the majority of them are citizens of this area. Their arrival coincided with the weakening of Mali's central government. Even worse, it coincided with a coup that was carried out in Mali on March of 2012 [On March 22, Malian President Amadou Toumani Toure was overthrown by a military coup. After a period of transition, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita became the country's President in November 2013, following an election]. This weakening of the Malian government led the heavily armed men who had just arrived from Libya to Northern Mali, the vast majority of whom were also former members of previous Tuareg [nomad] rebellions in the region, to think that their chance to win the war. They probably thought: "Until now, we've started rebellions to make our claims heard; why not conquer Mali?" And so they tried. Unfortunately, in this endeavour, a lot of extremists, jihadists and terrorists joined the insurrection. As a result, within four to five months, they were able to conquer virtually all major regions of Northern Mali, namely Kidal, Timbuktu and Gao. The fighters were a mix of jihadists, terrorists and Malians who wanted to have a say as Northerners, as Malians. When they tried to threaten the central government, the Operation Serval was launched by France in Mali, in January 2013 [a military operation launched by the French army to help Malian troops to repel the offensive from the North heading towards the capital, Bamako]. This intervention was supported by Chadian and other African troops, and the insurgency was pushed back to the North. [The Operation Serval, which ended in July 2014, was part of the African-led International Support Mission in Mali (AFISMA), a multinational force under African leadership authorized by the resolution 2085, adopted on December 20th 2012 by the UN Security Council.] After that, the Government was faced with two forces: one, which recognizes the integrity, secularism and unity of Mali, but claims a certain number of rights; and the other, composed of various terrorists, drug traffickers and mercenaries, who were involved in the insurgency and returned in the Ifoghas mountains [one of the major mountainous areas of the Sahara, located in Northeast Mali and Southern Algeria]. The Government was therefore left facing these two forces, one with national claims and the other with extremist claims. And based on that difference, we managed to negotiate with the groups with national claims the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, which is also known as the Agreement resulting from the Algiers process. A first version of the agreement was signed on 15 May 2015, and it was finalized on 20 June 2015. UN News Centre: Who signed the agreement? Mahamat Saleh Annadif: Besides Mali's Government, the parties who signed the agreement are multiple movements divided into two main groups. The first group is called the Coordination of Movements of Azawad (CMA), which consists of the High Council for the Unity of Azawad (HCUA), the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA), and the Arab Movement of Azawad (MAA). The second group, known as The Platform, includes various other movements: the Groupe autodefense touareg Imghad et allies (GATIA), the MAA-Platform, etc. And the third party in the agreement is, of course, the Malian Government. So these are the three signatories to the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. UN News Centre: How far are the parties today in the implementation of this agreement, and what can the UN do to accelerate this process? Mahamat Saleh Annadif: The Agreement created tracking mechanisms, mainly the Comite de Suivi de l'Accord (CSA), which meets once a month. Since the signing of this agreement, this Committee has met nine times. When the agreement was signed, a number of objectives were set. The first objective is the ceasefire. Since the agreement was signed, the ceasefire between the movements and the government has been holding. At the time when the agreement was signed, conflicts between the movements from the Platform and those from the CMA were ongoing. Since then, there has been a series of meetings between the Platform and the CMA, which were extensively covered by the media at the time, known as the Anefis talks [for the Malian town located in the Kidal region, where the negotiations were held in October 2015]. Following these talks, the movements ended the conflict between them. Still, the reality is that the implementation of the agreement is facing many challenges. I would not exactly say that it stalled, but it's rather delayed. Why this delay? Because once the agreement was signed, the government rushed to say that anything concerning the patrols, stations, integration and demobilization in short, all the aspects related to security and defence were a priority. However, the movements say: "No, the recurring conflict that took place in Mali were essentially grounded into political issues; therefore, let us advance on the front of institutional reforms, on political issues before moving on to military and security issues." As a result of these conflicting perspectives, even though the regulatory texts to support the reform already exist, we have not been able to implement the institutional reforms agreed upon in the accord and required by the signatory movements. The good news is that on June 14, the signatories met and agreed on the so-called Memorandum of Understanding, which sets out a timetable for the establishment of interim authorities. During a transitional period of 18 to 24 months, the latter will have the main task of managing anything dealing with the provinces or the Northern regions, namely the free administration. The people of Northern Mali say that what created frustration and caused problems in the first place was the fact that they did not govern themselves, but were governed by others, whom they feared and resented. While waiting for general elections in the country, the Memorandum settled on a transitional period, during which there will be a free administration in Northern Mali. We hope that the timetable that has been set can be met. And then, we will actually see a concrete beginning of the implementation of the agreement. UN News Centre: You are the Head of the MINUSMA. What is the Mission doing today to support the country on this path? Mahamat Saleh Annadif: MINUSMA is primarily a peacekeeping mission. A peacekeeping mission is based on a number of principles. It was deployed because the Malians requested it. It must be impartial and find an even distance between the armed groups and the Government. As its name suggests it, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali's main task is to assist the signatories. First, to ensure the sustainability of the ceasefire. Second, to support the implementation of the agreement. Third, to protect civilians, because the government is not present in all of the Malian territory. Fourth, to facilitate access for humanitarian actors in conflict areas. Fifth, to ensure that human rights are also respected. Sixth, to use the good offices while protecting UN staff and other UN agencies in Mali. The MINUSMA is doing all that. Unfortunately, while traditional UN missions support the parties once an agreement has been signed, there is a third element in Mali, which is not foreseen in the agreement: the terrorists refused to sign the peace agreement. They are outside the law. They want to oppose the Government by imposing their views. They have vowed to derail the agreement. Therefore, seeing that the MINUSMA is supporting its implementation, they are currently targeting the MINUSMA, hence the loss of lives in the Mission you hear about almost daily, if not more frequently. UN News Centre: The MINUSMA is indeed the deadliest UN mission, what are the specific measures taken by the Mission to deal with this unsafe, tense atmosphere? Mahamat Saleh Annadif: As soon as we realized that we had become a primary target for terrorists, we started to take a number of measures, including being more proactive. As they say, better safe than sorry. But to fulfil this mission, it is important that our mandate specify the rules of engagement. We believe that if we want the MINUSMA to fulfil its objectives, the Mission must deal with this terrorist threat. Even if we do not fight against terrorism, we should at least have the green light to arrest suspects and to anticipate threats. To that effect, we need more armoured vehicles, we need more planes for aerial coverage and we need more intelligence resources to gather more information about the enemy. This is what we are asking the Security Council. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Afghanistan Implies Pakistan Supporting IS Militants by Ayesha Tanzeem June 29, 2016 Afghanistan's national security adviser has accused Pakistan, without directly naming the country, of providing financial and logistical support to Islamic State (IS) fighters in Afghanistan. Hanif Atmar told journalists Wednesday in Jalalabad, the capital of eastern Nangarhar province, that his country's security forces this week arrested three IS fighters led by a militant from the central Asian country of Tajikistan, and interrogations of the men revealed they were receiving support from abroad. "We know where they received their training, who gave them arms, who gave them money, and who supported them," Atmar said. The majority of IS fighters in Afghanistan, he added, came from Pakistan and had identity documents that proved their citizenship. The Pakistani militants, he said, were joined by militants from Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Afghan forces in fierce battles this week in Nangarhar's Kot district claimed to have killed more than 135 IS fighters. Officials also confirmed the killing of at least 12 security personnel. Atmar blamed Pakistan for providing safe havens to elements who carried out "terrorist operations" inside Afghanistan. Afghan authorities have long accused Pakistan of supporting the Afghan Taliban and giving top leaders safe refuge. However, authorities have not previously accused Pakistan of supporting IS, which opposes the Afghan Taliban. Atmar also touted some success in countering IS and said the group, which previously had a membership in thousands, was now reduced to mere hundreds. Most of them, he said, had either been killed or had run away. Pakistani officials deny the allegations of supporting IS but say they need to study Atmar's statement before issuing a formal rebuttal. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Human Rights Chief: Burundi May Explode Into Ethnic Violence by Lisa Schlein June 29, 2016 Burundi's human rights record is under scrutiny at the U.N. Human Rights Council over the objections and anger of that country's government. The council said it is alarmed at the rise in rights violations in Burundi since last year's political crisis. It wants the violations to stop, because it fears an ethnic conflict with devastating consequences for all of central Africa. The United Nations and the government of Burundi have polar opposite views on what is happening in the country, a year after President Pierre Nkurunziza was elected to what his critics call an unconstitutional third term. Campaign of distortion While the government accused the U.N. of a campaign of distortion, U.N. human rights chief Zeid Ra-ad al-Hussein expressed great concern over the terrible reality that is playing out. In a report submitted to the U.N. Human Rights Council, Zeid accused Burundi government agents and associated militia of killings, disappearances and arbitrary arrests. He said he is alarmed at the prospect of an escalation in ethnic violence. "In the past six weeks, a number of members of the defunct armed Forces of Burundi, or ex-FAB, have been murdered, possibly because of their Tutsi ethnicity. In the south of the country, I have also been informed of speeches by members of the Imbonerakure amounting to incitement to violence against political opponents, with strong ethnic overtones," said Zeid. Imbonerakure, not militia Given Burundi's history of conflict between Hutus and Tutsis, the high commissioner warned the acts of incitement are potentially explosive. Willy Nyamitwe, a senior adviser to the president of Burundi, rejected accusations that the Imbonerakure, the ruling party's youth wing, is spreading hate speech and attacking people. He told VOA the group is not a militia. "They do not have weapons. They are not killing people. But, you can see when you go through these reports that even the High Commissioner is saying it is a militia that is intimidating people, killing citizens, but without giving evidences. We need facts. So when there is no fact, there is flying rumors," stated Nyamitwe. Nyamitwe accused Rwanda and Belgium of trying to destabilize Burundi by manipulating organizations, such as the International Crisis Group and Human Rights Watch. "Some reports are really biased and it is a huge campaign of distortion and fabrication and lies that have been spread over the internetBurundi is not the first country in Africa that has been destabilized by some powers that are working for regime change," he added. "Everything that has been said about mass killings, about genocide against Tutsi were wrong." Conflict trends, violations The high commissioner's spokeswoman, Cecile Pouilly, agreed that genocide is a very specific and powerful term that should not be used lightly. However, she disagreed with Nyamitwe's contention that the high commissioner's report is not based on fact. She told VOA that U.N. human rights monitors are in contact with a large network of people. She said they carefully document all the information they receive. "What we observe is a number of extra-judicial executions going down. At the same time, we see a number of human rights violations going up. Other trends--including a number of arbitrary arrests, arbitrary detentions, and very worrying an increase in the use of torture and ill-treatment, especially in detention facilities run by the Service Nationale de Renseignementintelligence agency, if you wantthe police and the army," Pouilly said. She said grenade attacks against the police and army are increasing. People continue to be displaced within the country and as refugees in neighboring countries. "And the crisis that is going on right now in Burundi, has been ongoing for months right now, is affecting the whole region," explained Pouilly. "And, the high commissioner has on many occasions warned against the risk of destabilization for the entire region." The International Criminal Court recently said it will open a preliminary examination into violence in Burundi. U.N. rights chief Zeid welcomes that. He is urging the authorities to bring all those responsible for crimes to justice, and for the country to resolve its crisis through an inclusive national dialogue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Double Wave of Suicide Bombings Puts Lebanon, Refugees on Edge by John Owens June 29, 2016 Tensions are rising in Lebanon as security is stepped up in the wake of a double wave of suicide bombings near the Syrian border. On Monday, the northeastern town of Al-Qaa was hit by two separate attacks involving eight suicide bombers within the space of a day, leaving five dead and dozens injured. Since then, amid reports of recently-thwarted plots emerging in the wake of the blast, the government has warned that the bombings could represent a new phase of violence against a country already struggling to cope with the overspill of the Syrian war. Meanwhile, amid the arrest and continued detention of Syrians in the region of Al-Qaa, there are fears that the blasts may worsen already strained relations between Lebanon and its refugee population. Deadly harbinger The small Christian town, which is just a few kilometers from the Syrian border, was initially targeted by four suicide bombers on Monday morning, killing five and wounding others. That evening as people gathered outside a church to mourn their loved ones, four more suicide bombers blew themselves up, reportedly injuring around 20. No one has yet claimed responsibility, but the finger is being pointed at Islamic State, which is thought to have fighters holed up in positions close by along the Lebanese-Syrian border. Multiple reports have emerged in subsequent days of other planned bombings, including one allegedly targeting a tourist site in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, that was thwarted by security forces. A statement released Tuesday by the Lebanese government warned, "We should not rule out that this terrorist crime is a harbinger of a wave of terrorist operations. "It could be an indicator of a new more aggressive phase of the battle with terrorist organizations," the statement added, "which work tirelessly to inflict harm on Lebanon and drag it into chaos and ruin." Monday's blasts are the latest in a series of bombings in Lebanon since the Syrian war began in 2011, the deadliest of which killed 47 last November in Beirut's southern suburb of Burj al Barajneh. It is not known if the initial suicide bombers intended to target the town, or if they were disturbed before they had the chance to move elsewhere in Lebanon. Fears of further bloodshed are running high in a country that has struggled to retain stability amid the influx of well over a million refugees and in which Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed Shia militia group, has fought in Syria in support of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad a move that has polarized opinion both inside and outside Lebanon. The bombing, which left more than 30 wounded, risks further escalating divisions, warned director of Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs Sami Nader. "This will add more confusion into what is already a complicated situation, and could further stir up sectarian strife," the analyst said. "It could push the country onto the edge." Further pressure In the midst of a security crackdown, further pressure is likely to be piled on the refugees in Lebanon, who now make up a quarter of the overall population. Lebanese newspaper Annahar reported that security sources claimed the attackers belonged to a 17-strong cell of militants, while other reports indicate that the army has cordoned off areas around the town and is continuing raids. Interior Minister Nouhad Machnouk said that four of the eight bombers did not come from camps within Lebanon but from Syria itself. Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) stated that 103 refugees have been arrested amid a series of raids on camps near to Al-Qaa, where funerals, postponed after the second attack, were set to take place Wednesday. The arrests, it claimed, were for "not having legal papers," a common problem among refugees, many of whom struggle to pay the yearly cost of renewing residency in Lebanon. A volunteer from one of the camps, who did not wish to be identified, told VOA that many refugees were still being held, despite the fact they already had been cleared for security in the past. "They came during the morning and started arresting people randomly," they said. "With every attack, [refugees'] treatment is getting worse - it's not human. I fear that things will get even more difficult in the coming days." With residents of Al-Qaa taking up armed patrols in response to the attack, and new curfews being imposed on refugees in the region, the town's mayor was among politicians calling on people not to blame the local Syrian population. Others, however, have taken a less conciliatory stance, leaving Nadim Khoury of Human Rights Watch fearful of vigilante reprisals. "There's danger of a reaction driven by politicians blaming Syrian refugees for the attack," he said, adding, "We need a responsible discourse, not populist rhetoric." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More Than 20 Killed in Central Somalia Fighting by Mohamed Olad June 29, 2016 More than 20 people were killed Wednesday in fighting between government soldiers and Islamist insurgents in central Somalia, witnesses and officials said. Al-Shabab fighters attacked a Somali National Army base in El-Hareri, a village in the Galguduud region, before dawn. The commander of the base, Colonel Ahmed Mohamed, told VOA's Somali service that 18 militants, five government soldiers and a civilian were killed during the fighting. "They attacked our base with hundreds of heavily armed fighters and 10 battle wagons mounted with machine guns," he said. "We managed to repulse the attack, and our troops then counterattacked." Each side lost a vehicle in the clash, he said. Abulle Idow, a resident contacted via telephone, said locals went to the base after the fighting and saw more than 20 dead bodies. More than 10 militants and two government soldiers were injured in the attack, government officials said. Radio Andalus, al-Shabab's mouthpiece in Somalia, reported that the militants had initially seized control of the base and killed more a dozen government soldiers, but Mohamed denied that. "They did not seize the base," he said. "They attacked us with a large number of militants from different regions of Somalia to inflict us a great loss, but thanks to Allah, they failed." Since 2006, al-Shabab has tried to overthrow Somalia's federal government and set up a state based on a strict interpretation of Sharia, or Islamic law. The group once controlled most of southern Somalia but was ousted from major cities and towns by the African Union mission in Somalia, AMISOM. Last Saturday, a suspected al-Shabab suicide bomber attacked a hotel in Mogadishu, killing at least 15 people. Among those killed was Buri Mohamed Hamza, a Somali government minister with Canadian citizenship, and Duale Shahid, a young Somali doctor whose father was killed in a similar hotel attack in Mogadishu in 2009. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Beefs Up Peacekeeping Force in Mali by Katarina Hoije June 29, 2016 The U.N. Security Council voted Wednesday to beef up peacekeeping operations in Mali, in light of attacks making the mission known as MINUSMA the world's most deadly. "Today the terrorists are stronger," said Inhaye Ag Mohamed, the secretary of Mali's peace and reconciliation committee, "and we are asking the U.N. Security Council to reinforce the mandate to adapt to this new situation." The Council on Wednesday increased the U.N. mission's force by 2,500, bringing the total to 13,300 troops and just under 2,000 police. The French-drafted resolution, passed on a unanimous vote, also directed MINUSMA "to move to a more proactive and robust posture" to carry out its mandate of supporting the government and re-establishing state authority. Jihadist groups, which have attacked numerous sites in northern Mali, are extending their reach farther south, even hitting a hotel in Bamako last November. It is a challenge considered unprecedented in the U.N.'s history. Never has a peacekeeping mission faced a situation like the one in Mali, says Kalidou Sidibe, a political analyst and expert on security in West Africa. "Peacekeeping missions are usually there to preserve the peace," he said. "In Mali, you have a variety of armed groups involved in trafficking and terrorism activities, and on top of that you have jihadists who know the terrain better than even the homegrown rebels." Deadly mission Since deployment in 2013, 68 U.N. peacekeepers have been killed in Mali, making it the U.N.'s deadliest active mission. They have faced ambushes, suicide attacks and IEDs, or improvised explosive devices. Lately, the U.N. has also faced an increasingly hostile population in the north, as residents accuse peacekeepers of failing to go after terrorists and other groups. But that kind of proactive engagement isn't MINUSMA's current mandate, Sidibe says. The Malian army is in shambles after the conflict in 2012, and there are no security forces in many northern towns. MINUSMA's aim is to fill that void, training the police and army to deal with terrorist threats, according to Sidibe. Analysts, however, say more U.N. peacekeepers may have limited impact, as lasting peace ultimately depends on the Malian government and its security forces. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian Arab Coalition Aids Manbij Residents From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release SOUTHWEST ASIA, June 30, 2016 The Syrian Arab Coalition continues its efforts to liberate the Syrian city of Manbij from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant's control, according to a news release issued today by Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials. Through deliberate clearing operations, the SAC recently gained a critical foothold in the southern portion of the city and maintain control of the flow of vehicles and people to and from the city, the release said. Counter-ISIL Airstrikes Continue CJTF-OIR officials said coalition aircraft supported SAC operations with 44 airstrikes in the last week. ISIL continues to use civilians as human shields and is employing snipers, tunnels, and booby traps to slow the SAC advance, the release said, noting ISIL also executed families caught trying to flee the city. Helping Syrian Civilians Officials said SAC forces directed the remaining civilians to nearby villages and provided them food and water. SAC leadership also coordinated for additional humanitarian assistance to relieve the suffering of those escaping the violence, the release said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Top U.S. Diplomat Touts Benefits Of NATO, Other Military Alliances June 30, 2016 by RFE/RL WASHINGTON -- The U.S. State Department's No. 2 official made a robust defense of alliances like NATO, pushing back against public discussion about whether the United States should pull back from such relationships. The remarks by Deputy Secretary of State Anthony Blinken appeared to be a response in part to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, who has said NATO is too expensive for Washington to maintain. They also come a week before NATO leaders gather for a summit in Warsaw, where they are expected to endorse larger forward forces of alliance troops in Poland and some Baltic states -- a direct response to European fears over Russian belligerence. Speaking June 29 at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington think tank, Blinken gave a laundry list of benefits that the United States gains from NATO and other alliances: economic, military, and democracy promotion. And he dismissed assertions that alliances are more of a burden than a benefit. "This argument remains in my judgment fundamentally flawed, overstating the costs of alliances, while underestimating the risks of turning inward and abandoning them, and certainly downplaying their benefits and virtues," he said. Blinken also specifically cited the sanctions imposed on Russia following its forcible annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014, and the conflict that erupted thereafter in eastern Ukraine. "Our continued unity on sanctions has sent a strong signal to Russia that we will not allow borders to be redrawn at the barrel of a gun," he said. At a rally in April, Trump, the billionaire real estate developer whose campaign has upended many expectations in the presidential race, complained that many allies weren't paying their fair share for maintaining the alliance's military readiness. He also called NATO obsolete. Blinken's remarks also come as U.S. allies in Europe grapple with the fallout from Britian's decision to withdraw from the European Union. Some officials in Europe and the United States have fretted that the withdrawal, if it happens, might undermine NATO's unity as well "Now is not the time to abandon the core of our liberal international order, this is a time to strengthen it," Blinken said. Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/top-us-diplomat-blinken-touts- benefits-nato-other-military-alliances/27829706.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenia Ratifies Joint Air-Defense With Russia June 30, 2016 by RFE/RL's Armenian Service YEREVAN -- Armenian lawmakers have approved the cabinet's decision to join Russia's air-defense system amid protests by the opposition. The government's decision was approved on June 30 by 102 lawmakers, while eight members of the parliament voted against it. Armenia and Russia, along with the former Soviet republics of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, are members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Moscow has stepped up military cooperation with its CSTO partners as its relations with the West worsened quickly after it forcibly annexed the Crimea Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and subsequently backed separatists in Ukraine's east. In May, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Washington that Moscow will consider measures to "end threats" from NATO's antimissile system in Europe that are based essentially on U.S. technology. With reporting by AFP Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/armenia- russia-joint-air-defense/27830613.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Update: air strikes against Daesh 30 June 2016 British forces have continued to conduct air operations in the fight against Daesh Latest update - Monday 27 June Typhoons provided close air support to Syrian democratic forces fighting in Manbij. - Tuesday 28 June Typhoons provided further support over Manbij, whilst a Reaper assisted Iraqi ground forces near Sharqat. - Wednesday 29 June Typhoons and two Reapers struck Daesh terrorist retreating from Fallujah, a third Reaper continued operations near Sharqat. Detail On Monday 27 June, while Royal Air Force Tornado GR4s conducted reconnaissance missions to gather intelligence on Daesh activity, Typhoon FGR4s and Reaper remotely piloted aircraft provided support to both Syrian democratic forces and Iraqi units. The same day, in Syria, a pair of Typhoons conducted a successful attack with Paveway IV guided bombs against a Daesh strongpoint on the south-western outskirts of Manbij. Typhoons executed a similar attack on Tuesday 28 June against a mortar position close to Manbij. Over Iraq, a Reaper supported Iraqi ground forces near Sharqat in the north of the country. The Reaper used Hellfire missiles against two groups of extremists caught in the open, including a machine-gun team engaged in combat with the Iraqi troops. Typhoons and Reapers conducted a number of attacks on Wednesday 29 June against Daesh terrorists fleeing in the face of Iraqi operations in Fallujah. A Typhoon struck two vehicles and a large group of extremists with Paveway IV bombs west of Fallujah and two Reapers destroyed a further four vehicles and a group of fighters, using Hellfire missiles and a GBU-12 guided bomb. One Reaper observed the Daesh vehicles refusing to stop and pick up fellow armed extremists trying to escape on foot. Another Reaper was active near Sharqat, where it destroyed two vehicles with Hellfire missiles and attacked a group of terrorists with a GBU-12 bomb. Previous air strikes 1 June: Reapers were in action again, one patrolled the skies above Qayyarah, where a camouflaged set of loaded rocket launch rails were spotted and destroyed with a Hellfire missile. A second Reaper patrolled over eastern Syria and western Iraq, and located a terrorist check-point on the Iraqi side of the border, west of Al Qa'im, which was stopping the free movement of traffic. Again, a Hellfire missile was employed and the check-point successfully attacked. Two Tornado missions provided reconnaissance and close air support to Iraqi forces around Fallujah. One pair of Tornados used Paveway IVs to conduct simultaneous attacks on two Daesh-held buildings close to a canal to the south of the city; one building housed a terrorist sniper team, the other a recoilless anti-tank artillery piece. Both targets were destroyed by direct hits. The second Tornado flight successfully silenced a heavy-machine-gun positioned in a third Daesh strongpoint after it opened fire on the advancing Iraqi troops. 2 June: Three successive flights of Tornado GR4s and Typhoon FGR4s provided close air support to Iraqi units on the southern outskirts of the city. One Tornado flight conducted four attacks with Paveway IV guided bombs, striking a bunker and three teams of terrorists armed with an anti-tank gun, rocket-propelled grenades and a heavy machine-gun. A second Tornado mission delivered simultaneous attacks on two Daesh-held buildings, then a third bombing attack on a heavy machine-gun position that had opened fire on Iraqi troops. The Typhoon flight dealt with a further artillery piece, using a Paveway IV. In northern Iraq, another pair of Typhoons struck a group of terrorists spotted advancing towards peshmerga positions near Kisik, then headed to an area south-east of Mosul where they used three Paveways to attack more extremists mustering in and around a large warehouse. 3 June: Operations over southern Fallujah continued when a pair of Typhoons conducted Paveway attacks on two Daesh strongpoints which had opened fire on Iraqi forces with machine-guns and other weapons. Two Reaper remotely piloted aircraft patrolled over the city the following day, exploiting their long endurance and excellent surveillance capabilities to provide persistent overwatch for the Iraqi troops on the ground. During the course of Saturday, the Reapers delivered five attacks, using two GBU-12 guided bombs and three Hellfire missiles, against two machine-gun teams, two Daesh firing positions and a tunnel network. They also provided assistance to five other air strikes conducted by coalition fast jets on terrorist positions. 5 June: Tornados were again in action over southern Fallujah. A factory producing improvised truck-bombs was struck with a pair of Paveway IVs, destroying two vehicles that were being prepared for use, and two further attacks with Paveways accounted for two anti-tank weapons. 6 June: Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s continued to provide close air support to the Iraqi operation to liberate Fallujah. A coalition surveillance aircraft spotted a group of Daesh terrorists taking up position in a building to the west of the city, allowing them to be quickly targeted by the Typhoons using a Paveway IV guided bomb. In northern Iraq, intelligence had located a large truck-bomb factory near Mosul and two RAF Tornado GR4s armed with 1000lb Enhanced Paveway II guided bombs were tasked with its destruction. A single EPW II destroyed the factory. 7 June: Operations around Fallujah continued when Tornados successfully attacked a weapons and ammunition stockpile hidden to the south-east of the city. 8 June: Tornados conducted three attacks to support Iraqi ground forces engaged in firefights with terrorists inside Fallujah. Despite the close proximity of the Iraqi forces, the GR4s were able to deliver simultaneous attacks with Paveway IVs against two strongpoints housing Daesh machine-gun and artillery teams. They then struck a further machine-gun position when it also opened fire on the Iraqis. Typhoons also contributed to the Fallujah operations, using Paveway IVs against two groups of Daesh extremists armed with a light machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenades. In northern Iraq, another Typhoon mission successfully attacked a Daesh-held building east of Mosul, whilst a Reaper used a GBU-12 bomb to demolish a building where another coalition surveillance aircraft had observed terrorists unloading supplies. A second Reaper patrolled over Syria and employed a Hellfire missile to destroy a Daesh truck travelling at speed on the open road south of Raqqa. 9 June: Royal Air Force Tornado GR4s continued to provide close air support to Iraqi ground forces fighting to liberate Fallujah. One Tornado flight conducted successful attacks using Paveway IV guided bombs against four Daesh-held buildings from which terrorists were directing machine-gun fire at the Iraqi forces. A second Tornado mission used a Paveway IV to destroy a building west of the city, within which a terrorist armed vehicle was reported by nearby Iraqi troops to be concealed. 10 June: A Reaper worked in close conjunction with other coalition aircraft to engage Daesh rocket and mortar teams operating near Qayyarah. The Reaper provided support to two coalition strikes on rocket positions, then used its own Hellfire missiles and a GBU-12 guided bomb against a further set of rocket launchers and a mortar. A Typhoon FGR4 flight was also operating near Qayyarah, and they conducted attacks against five targets: three buildings where Daesh extremists had been spotted gathering and two more rocket launcher positions. North-east of Mosul, another pair of Typhoons destroyed a heavy machine-gun team with a Paveway IV. To the south, Tornados again provided close air support over Fallujah, using their Paveways against three strongpoints which housed two machine-gun teams and a group of terrorists armed with rocket-propelled grenades. 11 June: An RAF Reaper continued to hunt terrorist rocket and mortar teams around Qayyarah, conducting three attacks with Hellfire missiles. 12 June: Another Reaper patrolled over Qayyarah, and also fired three Hellfires, its targets were two terrorist vehicles and a group of Daesh fighters. Typhoons were also active nearby, and used Paveway IVs to attack two groups of terrorists caught in the open and two Daesh-held buildings. A Typhoon mission also joined Tornados operating over Fallujah; the Typhoons used one Paveway IV against a machine-gun position, whilst the Tornados delivered five very precise attacks in very demanding circumstances, with Iraqi troops extremely close to the terrorist targets. Paveway IVs were used to destroy a rocket team, an anti-tank gun, a heavily armed pick-up truck and a heavy machine-gun team, whilst a Brimstone missile silenced a light machine-gun. During Sunday night, a pair of Tornados armed with 1000lb Enhanced Paveway II guided bombs conducted a carefully planned strike on a factory to the south-west of Qayyarah where truck-bombs were being built by Daesh. Four EPW IIs hit their targets accurately and initial reports suggest the mission was a success. 13 June: A pair of Typhoons assisted Iraqi troops as they engaged in very close combat inside Fallujah. Our aircraft delivered four precision attacks, all with Paveway IV guided bombs, that destroyed five strongpoints defended by Daesh terrorists armed with machine-guns, rocket-propelled grenades and an anti-tank gun. 14 June: The Typhoons continued operations over Fallujah, and again worked very closely with the Iraqi units hitting five terrorist positions including sniper and machine-gun teams. In northern Iraq, around Qayyarah, a second Typhoon flight and a Reaper supported Iraqi and Kurdish units. The Typhoons attacked a Daesh-held building with a Paveway IV, while the Reaper conducted four attacks: a GBU-12 guided bomb was used against a group of terrorists gathered at a weapons stockpile, and three mortars were attacked in turn with Hellfire missiles. The Reaper also tracked the arrival of a truck-bomb and observed it being concealed inside a garage this surveillance enabled a successful attack to then be delivered by a coalition aircraft which destroyed the vehicle. 15 June: Two Typhoon flights saw action over Fallujah on Wednesday, and between them they conducted seven successful attacks with Paveway IVs. Again all were in very close support of Iraqi ground forces, accounting for terrorist teams armed with heavy weapons, rocket-propelled grenades, and a 23mm anti-aircraft gun. 16 June: With Iraqi forces making steady progress pushing into Fallujah, two flights of Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s contributed to the coalition's air support. Our aircraft successfully attacked four Daesh machine-gun positions that were identified by the Iraqi ground forces, using Paveway IV guided bombs. 17 June: An RAF Reaper patrolling over northern Iraq, north of Bayji. The Reaper's crew identified a large mortar and a Daesh truck, both were destroyed by Hellfire missiles. 18 June: A second Reaper operated in the same area, supporting an offensive by Iraqi forces. It used four Hellfires and a GBU-12 guided bomb to successfully engage three armed pick-up trucks which were firing at the Iraqi troops, a fourth vehicle and a trench position. In north-west Iraq, in Harunah, two pairs of Tornado GR4s, armed with eight 1000lb Enhanced Paveway IIs conducted a pre-planned strike on a complex of buildings which had been identified by intelligence as a headquarters, accommodation and weapons facility for Daesh foreign fighters. All four target buildings were destroyed. Another Reaper patrolled over Syria and attacked a Daesh vehicle south-west of Manbij, destroying it with a Hellfire missile. 19 June: Typhoons were in action over Fallujah, providing close air support to Iraqi troops who had penetrated to the city centre. Six terrorist strongpoints housing machine-gun, artillery and rocket-propelled grenade teams were struck in a series of precision Paveway attacks. In northern Iraq, a Reaper used a pair of Hellfires to engage two groups of Daesh extremists north of Bayji, while Tornados used a Brimstone missile against a third group in the same area, and a Paveway IV against a rocket-launcher north of Mosul. 20 June: An armed reconnaissance patrol by Tornados over eastern Syria used a Brimstone missile to attack a truck-bomb hidden under a tarpaulin between two ruined buildings north of Dayr az Zawr. The Brimstone scored a direct hit; a massive explosion followed, which confirmed how heavily the vehicle had been laden with explosives. Further west, near Raqqah, a Reaper conducted three attacks with Hellfire missiles against a Daesh vehicle and extremists on foot. Typhoons and Tornados were again active over Fallujah, and used Paveway IV bombs to destroy four Daesh machine-gun posts engaged in very close combat with the Iraqi security forces. Since the start of the operation to liberate Fallujah, RAF aircraft have prosecuted some 96 targets in and around the city and neighbouring areas in the Euphrates valley. 21 June: Reaper patrols north of Bayji continued, and five attacks were conducted in support of Iraqi offensive operations. Hellfires accounted for two supply vehicles and a truck armed with an anti-aircraft gun, as well as an observation post dug-in on a ridgeline. A GBU-12 guided bomb destroyed a Daesh mortar team, spotted as they fired at an Iraqi position. A Typhoon flight operated further north, north-west of Mosul, where they used a Paveway IV to hit a rocket-launcher site. 22 June: Typhoon FGR4s, based at RAF Akrotiri and supported by a Voyager air refuelling tanker, flew close air support missions over Fallujah. They successfully attacked three Daesh strongpoints with Paveway IV guided bombs, the targets had been identified by Iraqi ground forces as being manned by machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenade teams. North of Bayji, Tornado GR4s and a Reaper supported an Iraqi offensive operation. The Tornados employed one Paveway IV and three Brimstone missiles to destroy four Daesh fighting positions along a defensive embankment, whilst the Reaper used a single GBU-12 guided bomb to destroy two more positions. 23 June: A second Reaper continued support in the area into Thursday and used a Hellfire missile to eliminate a terrorist spotted with a man portable surface-to-air missile. Typhoons continued their support over Fallujah as well, conducting a Paveway IV attack on a machine-gun team. Another Typhoon flight operated over northern Syria, close to the Turkish border and destroyed two Daesh-held buildings several miles east of Azaz. 24 June: A Reaper supported an Iraqi offensive near Sharqat, west of Kirkuk. Its crew used a Hellfire missile to destroy an engineering vehicle which was being used to create defences ahead of the Iraqi advance. Tornados patrolled further north and employed a Paveway IV against a mortar position north-west of Mosul. Typhoons conducted further operations over Fallujah and were called in by the Iraqi army to destroy two machine-gun positions on the northern outskirts of the city. A total of 101 targets have been successfully prosecuted by the RAF in Fallujah and neighbouring areas since the start of the Iraqi operation to liberate the city. 25 June: A Reaper again on patrol near Sharqat, and this aircraft delivered three successful attacks with Hellfire missiles against a truck, a group of terrorists, and a van which Daesh had been seen loading with weapons and ammunition. 26 June: Intelligence had determined that Daesh were using a large concrete bunker in western Iraq as a weapons facility. Due to the massive construction, built during the Saddam era, it was decided to use four Stormshadow missiles against it, as the weapon has particularly good capabilities against such a challenging target. The missiles were launched by two Tornados, all four Stormshadows scored direct hits and penetrated deep within the bunker. Also in western Iraq, south-east of Hit, a Typhoon flight used a single Paveway IV to destroy a much smaller bunker built by Daesh south-east of Hit. In northern Iraq, a Reaper provided close air support near Sharqat for the third successive day, using its Hellfires to attack a vehicle, a group of terrorists on foot, and a team planting improvised explosive devices. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN peacekeeping mission in Liberia handing over security responsibility to national forces 30 June 2016 Liberian security forces today took full control of their security for the first time since the civil war ended 13 years ago, marking a historic milestone for the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Liberia and a major benchmark in the country's peace process. Liberia Military Guide Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon today paid tribute to the determination of the people and the Government of Liberia to work towards lasting peace after the end of the conflict that led to the deployment of the UN Mission, known by its acronym UNMIL, in October 2003. "The continuing improvement in the security and stability of Liberia has enabled the United Nations to enter the final stage of its peacekeeping efforts in the country," the Secretary-General said in a statement attributable to his spokesperson. The achievement is also due to the important role played by partners, in particular the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU) and the Mano River Union, in supporting the consolidation of peace, security and stability in Liberia. Including during the Ebola outbreak, which remains a concern in the region. In his statement, Mr. Ban also welcomed the contributions from troop and police-contributing countries, as well as bilateral partners and multilateral organizations, noting that they "facilitated the considerable achievements made by UNMIL." Since Liberia's civil war ended in 2003, UNMIL has been supporting the West African nation to rebuild its institutions so it can maintain stability without its presence. In 2015, Liberian authorities launched an undertaking to assume full responsibility of the country's security by the end of this June. From this week forward, the UN peacekeeping forces - which will include 1,240 military and 606 police personnel - will have a supporting role only. The Government is taking responsibility for all aspects of Liberia's security, including executive protection, unexploded ordnance disposal and marking of Government weapons, which were handed over in recent months. The details were agreed to by the Security Council in resolution 2239 (2015). Despite the achievements, Mr. Ban called on all partners to stay engaged and to continue assisting the Government of Liberia to consolidate peace and build long-term stability. He stressed that the UN will remain engaged in Liberia, supporting its people and Government. The UN Security Council will decide on the future of the Mission by 15 December. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Dozens Dead, Wounded in Suicide Attack on Afghan Police Convoy by Ayaz Gul June 30, 2016 Taliban suicide car bombers struck a police convoy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, Thursday, killing at nearly 40 security personnel and wounding scores of others. The convoy was transporting cadets and trainers when it came under attack. Afghan officials confirmed there were back-to-back blasts. Eyewitnesses told VOA they saw police personnel evacuating dead and wounded. President Ashraf Ghani condemned the terrorist attack as "a crime against humanity." He ordered the interior ministry to probe how the decision on transportation of the cadets was made and promised"follow-up actions" in the event of any negligence. "While Muslims are busying praying during this holy month of Ramadan, Taliban keep committing reprehensible crimes by killing innocent people and spreading fear and terror among them," a presidential palace statement quoted Ghani as saying. The victims were traveling in buses to Kabul from the central eastern Maidan Wardak province for Eid, the major festival marking the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. NATO's Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan expressed its condolences over the attack. "The Taliban have once again shown their total disregard for human life. Their increased use of improvised explosive devises are taking a very heavy toll on the Afghan people," said Brig. Gen. Charles Cleveland, Resolute Support Deputy Chief of Staff, Communication. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the bombing. In a statement sent to reporters, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said a suicide bomber rammed his explosives-filed car into the convoy. Mujahid added, a second bomber then struck police officers who had gathered around the site of the first blast. He claimed at least 150 Afghan forces were killed, but the insurgent group often exaggerates the toll in such attacks. The deadly bombing came a week after a Taliban suicide bomber attacked a bus carrying mostly Nepalese security guards working for the Canadian embassy in Kabul. The blast killed 14 people, mostly Nepalese nationals. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Report: US Sailors Detention by Iranian Forces 'Wholly Preventable' by Carla Babb June 30, 2016 The detention of 10 U.S. sailors by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps earlier this year was "wholly preventable," according to the commander of naval forces in the Middle East. In Navy documents released Thursday, U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan, Commander of US Naval Forces Central Command, said the January incident was due to several problems, including poor leadership, a "non-existent" compliance with proper maintenance and procedures and insufficient planning. "Considering the lack of discipline and failure to adhere to the basic core values of the United State Navy, it is simply good fortune that prevented an earlier incident in this unit," Donegan wrote in his endorsement of a report on the incident. Chief of Naval Operations Admiral John Richardson told reporters at the Pentagon Thursday the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps also was at fault. "The investigation concluded that Iran violated international law by impeding the boats' innocent passage transit," Richardson said. He added the Iranians had violated sovereign immunity by "boarding, searching and seizing the boats and by photographing and videotaping the crew." The sailors, nine men and one woman, were traveling through the Persian Gulf from Kuwait toward Bahrain in two riverine vessels on January 12, 2016, when U.S. controllers lost contact with them. According to the report, the boat crews started their mission hours behind schedule and, in an effort to make up time, committed an "unplanned and unauthorized deviation" that "caused them to transit unknowingly through Saudi Arabian territorial seas and through Iranian territorial seas." The report found that one of the boats suffered an "engine casualty" and went "dead in the water" about three kilometers away from Farsi Island, Iranian territory that is roughly midway between Kuwait and Bahrain. The sailors then failed to report the engine problems and the sighting of unpredicted land to authorities despite having working communication gear on one of the boats. Iranian Revolutionary Guards who patrol the Gulf boarded the U.S. vessels and detained the crew members near Farsi Island. They were released the next morning. The report found that some crew members did not meet the Navy's code of conduct standards while in custody. It said some sailors, while detained at gunpoint, had shared sensitive information, such as phone and laptop passwords. "Those sailors clearly know our actions on that day in January and this incident did not live up to our expectations of our Navy," Richardson said. He said the task force commander, the commanding officer of the riverine squadron and the officer in charge of the detachment in Kuwait have all been relieved of duty following the incident. Six additional sailors are in the process of potentially receiving disciplinary action. The report recommends the Navy take steps to increase oversight of actions that move across multiple areas of operation. It has also increased the amount of training required for these missions, including escape training. After the incident, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said the resolution was a success for diplomacy, and Defense Secretary Ash Carter said he was grateful to have the service members "back in our hands." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ICTY Upholds Convictions, Sentences of Two Bosnian Serbs by VOA News June 30, 2016 U.N. judges have rejected the appeals of two former top Bosnian Serbs officials against their convictions for war crimes during the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. The appeals chamber at the United Nations Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, or ICTY, dismissed in their "entirety" the appeals brought by Mico Stanisic and Stojan Zupljanin, said judge Carmel Agius.The court also upheld the men's 2013 convictions and 22-year prison sentences. Additionally, the chamber rejected an appeal by prosecutors to increase the sentences. Stanisic, 62, was the interior minister, while Zupljanin, 64, was a senior security official in charge of police in the breakaway Bosnian Serb republic (Republika Srpska) during the war, triggered by the breakup of the former Yugoslavia after the fall of communism. They were convicted of 10 charges of war crimes, crimes against humanity, including murder and torture, and cruel treatment of non-Serbs in municipalities and detention centers during the war. The two men were close associates of former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic, who was found guilty in March on charges of genocide and war crimes for his role in the conflict. Fighting in Bosnia-Herzogovina claimed more than 100,000 lives and left some 2.2 million people homeless. The ICTY has indicted more than 150 people for serious violations of humanitarian law committed on the territory of the former Yugoslavia since 1991, including genocide. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Suicide Bombers Kill At Least 13 in Far North Cameroon by Moki Edwin Kindzeka June 30, 2016 Cameroon says it is deploying more troops to its far northern border with Nigeria after a suicide attack late Wednesday killed at least 13 people in the border town of Limani. Two teenage suicide bombers crossed the border from Nigeria's Borno state late Wednesday, according to Cameroon's Far North region governor Midjiyawa Bakary. One detonated his explosives at a popular spot where youth had gathered to watch films while the other went to a local mosque. The governor said officials believe the bomber may have intended to hide there and attack the faithful who attend morning Ramadan prayers in large numbers. Midjiyawa said 13 people are confirmed dead and many more are wounded. Speaking to VOA by phone, the governor said Boko Haram has been targeting the area over the past month. He said the terrorist group has been using the long and porous border to steal food and money and transport them to Nigeria. Cameroon's government spokesman, Issa Tchiroma Bakari, said the military has been deployed to seal that part of the border. He said the fact that the same people with the same language and descendants are found on both sides of the border makes it very difficult to identify strangers. He says the military will investigate whether the suicide bombers benefited from any local collaboration. Earlier this month, Cameroon deployed 1,000 additional soldiers in the north as part of a fresh regional offensive against Boko Haram. Since it started in 2009, the Boko Haram insurgency has killed over 20,000 people and displaced 2.7 million more. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Adds 8 Countries to List of Worst Human Traffickers by Nike Ching June 30, 2016 Recruiters came to Angela's town in Syria offering paid work in restaurants in Lebanon. She accepted to leave her war-torn country, but found herself subjected to sex trafficking along with dozens of other girls. They were locked in hotels and sometimes forced to see 20 clients each day. The traffickers also raped and tortured the girls into submission. Angela finally escaped with help from police. Angela's case was one of the stories told in the State Department's 2016 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, which highlights issues of modern slavery, child soldiers, forced marriage, and domestic servitude. It also unveils efforts by governments from 188 countries and territories around the globe, including the United States, to combat human trafficking. In this year's report, eight countries were added to the blacklist of nations considered the worst offenders in human trafficking, the so-called Tier 3 list. The new nations added include the former Soviet states of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan along with the fledgling democracy of Myanmar, Haiti, Djibouti, Papua New Guinea, Sudan and Suriname. A Tier 3 rating can trigger sanctions limiting access to American and international aid. The State Department said despite sustained anti-trafficking efforts, millions of individuals are bound by "mental, physical, and financial coercion" and manipulation by traffickers who "exploit their vulnerabilities for profit." "Modern day slavery that still today claims more than 20 millions victims on any given time, all 20 millions are people they have names, they have or had families," said U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, calling human trafficking an industry that makes billions of dollars each year. Political considerations Kerry said political considerations did not figure into the ranking determination, though that assertion has been met with some criticism. Kristen Abrams senior advisor at Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking, a coalition of 13 U.S.-based human rights organizations told VOA that political motivations seem to have influenced the State Department's decision-making in regards to the trafficking report. "The Trafficking in Persons report matters if it's released with integrity. Other countries and other stakeholders can rely on the State Department's unbiased ranking, and I think that the State Department can do so by relying exclusively on credible evidence and facts on the ground, but not politics," said Abrams. While continued efforts in protection and prosecution are essential, human trafficking prevention strategies deserve commensurate resources, said the report, which is urging governments around the globe to work with civil society to prevent human trafficking. State Department's Ambassador-at-Large to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Susan Coppedge told VOA Thursday the report provides a roadmap for improvement for countries to follow. "There are recommendations as to what that country can do to improve the fight against trafficking within their borders. It also allows the U.S. to engage in bilateral diplomacy with countries on the issue of trafficking in persons," said Coppedge. While in many ways human trafficking victims suffer at the hands of their traffickers, they also may suffer from treatment by governments, including by the criminal justice systems that should protect them, according to the report. The purpose of issuing the report is neither to scold nor to name and shame, but to encourage people to change for better, according to Secretary of State John Kerry. Honorees named Nine men and women were honored for their tireless efforts that have made a lasting impact on the fight against the modern slavery. Among them are anti-trafficking activists Biram Abeid and Brahim Ramdhane from Mauritania, a country where slavery was not formally outlawed until 1981. Abeid and Ramdhane are both the children of slaves, and they have chosen careers focused on confronting injustice in Mauritania. Oluremi Banwo Kehinde is a Russia-based anti-trafficking activist. Despite personal threats to his life, Kehinde tirelessly works to assist and protect Nigerian and other African victims of sex trafficking. This year's report marks the 16th year the Trafficking in Persons Report has been produced, which was mandated under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, or TVPA. In this year's report, 36 countries and territories are on Tier 1; 78 countries and territories are on Tier 2; the Tier 2 Watch List contains another 44 countries and territories; and Tier 3 is comprised of 27 countries and territories. Libya, Somalia and Yemen each are listed as a so-called "Special Case" because a stable government does not necessarily exist in those countries to implement policy. "Somalia has been a special case for a while, Yemen and Libya are new to that category this year," Coppedge said, because "if there isn't a government that's stable in the country, it's hard to evaluate their efforts, so we move them to the special case category." Countries ranked as Tier 1 are considered in full compliance with minimum standards of the TVPA, but the designation does not mean trafficking has been eradicated in those countries. A Tier 2 ranking means countries do not meet the minimum standards, but they are taking significant efforts to do so. The Tier 2 Watch List means a country is making significant efforts, but the absolute number of victims of severe forms of trafficking is significantly increasing, and they are failing to provide evidence of increased efforts. Kuwait and Thailand were moved off the lowest Tier 3 ranking of the annual listing and promoted to the "Tier 2 Watch List." VOA's Ken Bredemeier contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address At Least 41 Dead In Suicide Attacks At Istanbul Airport June 29, 2016 by RFE/RL Turkish officials have raised the casualty figures from June 29 attack on Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport to 41 killed and 239 injured. The majority of those killed were Turkish citizens, while at least 12 of those killed were foreign nationals and three held dual nationality. Turkish officials said three suicide bombers arrived at the airport by taxi and blew themselves up at the entrance, near the security check-in area, after an exchange of gunfire with police. Turkish Justice Minister Bekir Bozag said there were also signs of an explosion near the subway station at the airport. Video footage showed one of the attackers inside the terminal being shot, apparently by a security-service member, before hitting the floor as people ran away from him. But the attacker then blew himself up some 20 seconds later. With similarities to the Brussels airport bombings in March, Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said initial indications are the Islamic State extremist group was responsible. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said the attack should serve as a turning point in the global fight against terrorism, which he said had "no regard for faith or values." U.S. President Barack Obama told Erdogan via phone on June 29 that the United States will offer "any support that the Turks can benefit from as they conduct this investigation and take steps to further strengthen the security situation in their country," Obama's spokesman said. Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a call to Erdogan on reviving bilateral relations, also expressed his condolences to Erdogan over the airport attack. Meanwhile, Iyad Madani, the secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), stressed his "absolute rejection" of the attack and called for international cooperation to stop "terrorism by addressing its causes and various contexts." There are 57 countries in the OIC, including Turkey. Among those wounded in the attack, 109 have already been discharged from hospitals, the Istanbul governor's office said. But 41 with serious injuries are reportedly still in intensive care in Istanbul hospitals. Six Saudis and two Iraqis were among the dead, a Turkish official said. Citizens from China, Jordan, Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Ukraine were also among the foreigners killed. The attack on Europe's third-busiest airport was the deadliest in a series of suicide bombings this year in Turkey, many blamed on Kurdish militants. The airport resumed full operations earlier on June 29 after being closed for several hours after the attack. The United States temporarily stopped all flights to and from Istanbul, one of Europe's busiest airports. Turkey has been hit by a string of deadly attacks in recent months, blamed on both Kurdish rebels and Islamic State militants. ACI Europe, the European airports association, said airport security was increased across Europe after attacks at the airport in Brussels in March, but it said many of the deaths in Istanbul were of people lined up near X-ray machines for security checks at the terminal's entrance. "We must face the reality that when dealing with a terror threat based on suicide bombing, no security measures can ensure 100 percent protection," ACI Europe said in a statement. With reporting by AP, Reuters, AFP, and dpa Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/explosions-hit- istanbul-airport/27826912.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Islamic State And The Threat Of WMDs June 29, 2016 by David Patrikarakos From Fallujah to Mosul, Paris to Brussels, the terrorist organization that calls itself Islamic State (IS) murders, maims, and enslaves with wanton abandon, if not exactly impunity. By now the world has woken up to the serious threat that the group poses, not just in the Middle East but also in Europe and the United States. Islamic State's crimes are horrific enough with its present capabilities, but a question increasingly asked among politicians and military officials is: What if IS were to acquire the unthinkable -- a weapon of mass destruction (WMD)? Earlier this month I attended the International Luxembourg Forum on Preventing Nuclear Catastrophe in Amsterdam, an NGO set up to tackle exactly this type of problem. And what emerged is that the danger of IS acquiring its most fearsome weapon yet is now a significant one. According to an expert who participated in the forum, the danger is twofold. The gravest threat would come if IS were able to get its hands on nuclear materials. These would mean, for example, the type of enriched uranium Iran uses in its nuclear program -- from which IS could theoretically make a small nuclear bomb with further enrichment -- or existing weapons-grade plutonium, from which it could do the same. But the probability of IS being able to do this is slim. The requisite materials are located in only 24 countries and are in highly guarded facilities. Set against this fact, however, have been several lapses in security. In 2012 an 82-year-old nun and peace activist, Megan Rice, broke into the Oakridge nuclear reservation in Tennessee. Rice never got near any nuclear material but a lot of systems had to fail for her to get as close as she did. Likewise, according to a British Ministry of Defense report, guards at one of the U.K.'s nuclear facilities were caught sleeping on the job. And then there is the problem of poor levels of security at a host of nuclear research centers in the former Soviet Union. The probability of IS taking advantage of these lapses in security is low, but not insignificant. The greatest danger comes from the most unstable countries with the largest amounts of documented radical activity: Pakistan, Russia, and India -- with Pakistan at the top of the list. Moreover, as retired Major General Vladimir Dvorkin, a chief researcher at the Center for International Security at the Russian Academy of Sciences' Institute of World Economy and International Relations, told me: "there is a lot of illegal activity, trafficking in illegal natural material...so [IS] could either pull off a purchase for a significant amount of money or intercept illegal trafficking. Plus, they seem to have enough money to recruit scientists to build a rudimentary nuclear device. Not a nuclear warhead, but an explosive nuclear device; it may, in fact, only weigh a few tons but it's still something you could assemble close to an urban area, or on a vessel that could then be brought to U.S. or European shores." Many Ways To Dirty Bomb Another problem would be a conventional weapons attack on a nuclear facility, which could conceivably cause a Chernobyl-like disaster or worse. It remains nearly impossible to attack a nuclear power plant, as they have substantial protection, but attacking nuclear-research facilities that have reactors filled with nuclear materials is far easier, and a lot of cities have these. According to Dvorkin even bombing a nuclear-storage facility with a relatively small bomb would mean the destruction of buildings within a 3-4-kilometer radius and fallout covering a much larger area and creating a lasting effect. The second and far more immediate threat is that of attack with a radiological device. The materials for this are located in over a 100 countries and, critically found not just in specialized facilitates but in hospitals and research centers used, for example, in treating cancer -- places that, unlike major nuclear facilities, don't have gates, guards, and guns. The expert who attended the forum warned me that IS has many such facilities within the land it already controls and that is where the "dirty bomb" (a radiological as opposed to nuclear bomb) threat is now unequivocally real. One can easily use conventional resources to make a dirty bomb, use agents to plant it in a major urban center, then simply watch it ignite and cause billions of dollars of damage. The loss of life would likely be modest -- only those in its immediate vicinity would die. But the psychological element would be huge; as a nuclear specialist told me, the public hears "radiological" and immediately panics. Then there would be the cost of demolishing and rebuilding the buildings that had been contaminated in a far wider area. While nothing is certain when dealing with what is clearly a fanatical organization, it is clear that IS is organized and thinks strategically. As Dvorkin points out, the chances of IS using even a rudimentary nuclear device are accordingly slim. First, it would risk alienating even Sunni Muslim communities across the Middle East that might presently have some sympathy with its aims. Second, what is now a fractious coalition fighting against IS would almost certainly unite and bring its combined weight to utterly annihilate the organization. Nonetheless, as The New York Times reported in February, a man linked to the November 13 Paris attackers was found in possession of surveillance footage of a high-ranking Belgian nuclear official. With IS any horror is possible, even if it is not probable. The question more realistically facing us is not whether IS can employ a dirty bomb -- most likely in Europe or the United States -- but will it? And experts fear the worst. According to Dr. Moshe Kantor, president of the Luxembourg Forum, "the threat of a terrorist group, such as Islamic State, staging a nuclear bomb attack on a major European city, such as London, is 'high.'" Given that IS has already carried out numerous chemical-weapons attacks in Syria, its willingness to use a WMD of some kind is clearly present. As Kantor continued "the threat of a so-called 'dirty bomb' attack is at its highest level since the end of the Cold War." The world should be worried. David Patrikarakos is a contributing editor at the Daily Beast and the author of Nuclear Iran: The Birth Of An Atomic State. He is working on a book on social media and war Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/islamic- state-threat-of-wmd/27828778.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey Blames Islamic State for Deadly Attack on Istanbul Airport by Ken Bredemeier June 29, 2016 Turkey blamed Islamic State jihadists Wednesday for the deadly assault on Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport, denouncing the latest terrorist attack in the country and vowing to fight terrorism "until the end." No one has claimed responsibility for the late Tuesday attack that killed 41 people and wounded more than 230 others when three suicide bombers opened fire with assault weapons and then blew themselves up. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said, "The evidence points to Daesh," using an Arabic name for IS, but added that "our investigations are continuing." He suggested the attack could be connected with Ankara's move Monday to repair strained relations with Russia and Israel. Yildirim said one of the suicide bombers blew himself up outside the airport terminal, with the other two using the panic of the moment to shoot their way past security guards and set off their bombs inside the airport. The Turkish government declared a day of mourning Wednesday, even as work crews cleaned up the widespread debris at the airport, and flights resumed. World condolences World leaders condemned the bombings. U.S. President Barack Obama called Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to offer his condolences. Later, at a summit of North American leaders in Canada, Obama said the U.S. "will not rest until we have dismantled these networks of hate that have had an impact on the entire civilized world." Mogens Lykketoft, president of the 193-member United Nations General Assembly, said, "The international community must through much closer cooperation redouble efforts to contain and fight radical and violent extremism." Erdogan said the incident "shows that terrorism strikes with no regard to faith and values." But he said that his country "has the power, determination and capacity to continue the fight against terrorism until the end." The attack on the airport, Europe's third busiest, is the latest in a wave of bombings in Turkey over the past year that have killed more than 260 people. The terrorist attacks have decimated the country's tourist industry, cutting the number of visitors to the country that straddles Europe and Asia by 23 percent through May compared to a year ago. "Our airport has been opened to flights and departures," Yildirim said. Turkish Airlines said it has resumed all flight operations, including flights between the U.S. and Istanbul. Officials said 13 of those killed were foreign nationals, with the remainder Turks. They said 109 of the injured were released from hospitals Wednesday, but that 41 were still in intensive care. Witnesses said the suicide bombers opened fire on people before detonating explosives at the international arrival terminal. One witness described the scene to VOA's Turkish service. "There were two small explosions and then a large one. People scattered everywhere. They did not know where to go. We were waiting for my sister, but could not find her. We are [still] waiting." A second witness said, "In one direction there were shots. In another direction there were bombs, and people ran out as fast as they could, and there were people bleeding on the sidewalk." Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama was on a plane that landed at the Ataturk airport just minutes after the attacks. Later, he expressed his condolences to the victims on his official Twitter account, saying he felt "deep pity for the lost innocent lives in that barbarous act of those who have neither God or hope nor a place among the people." Islamic State has been blamed for two suicide bombings earlier this year in Istanbul targeting foreign tourists. The Kurdish rebel group PKK also has carried out suicide bombings, but usually targets security forces, as it did this month in an attack on a police bus that killed 11 people. In the last year, both Ankara and Istanbul have seen scores killed in bombings carried out by both IS and Kurdish rebels. VOA's Turkish Service also contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Istanbul Bombers Said To Be From Russia, Uzbekistan, And Kyrgyzstan June 30, 2016 by RFE/RL A Turkish official has said three suspected Islamic State (IS) suicide bombers who attacked Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport this week were from Russia, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Authorities also announced the detention of 13 more people, including three foreign nationals, in connection with the June 28 gun-and-bomb attack that killed at least 43 people and injured more than 200 more. The attack on Europe's third-busiest airport was the deadliest in a series of suicide bombings in Turkey this year, and the latest of more than a dozen major attacks in that country in the past 12 months. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Ankara has blamed the IS militant group. Russia's ambassador to Turkey, Andrei Karlov, told journalists after the suspected perpetrators' identities were leaked on June 30 that he had no information regarding the involvement of any Russian citizen in the attack. "I do not have any information on that matter," Karlov said. Interfax quoted Russian law enforcement as disputing that one of those named had ever lived in Chechnya, as local media suggested. A spokesman for Kyrgyzstan's Interior Ministry, Ernis Osmonbaev, meanwhile told RFE/RL that the government was "investigating the reports." "At this point, we cannot say that our citizen was among [the attackers]," Osmonbaev said. Uzbekistan's security service could not immediately be reached for comment. To varying degrees, all three of those post-Soviet states are said to be sources of IS recruits who have traveled to fight in the Middle East, where the group has declared a "caliphate" in swaths of conflict-torn Syria and Iraq. Russian officials say thousands of its citizens have fled to join the IS military effort in Syria -- representing as much as around 10 percent of IS's foreign fighting force. Russia has also battled a long-running Islamist-fueled insurgency in its North Caucasus region, including in Chechnya and Daghestan. Kyrgyz authorities have reported thwarting a number of terrorist attacks in that predominantly Muslim country that they said were planned by IS members, and they have tried to crack down on alleged recruiters for the group. Officials in Uzbekistan, which is also predominantly Muslim, have warned of IS recruiting efforts there not only for fighters but also targeting "specialists" including engineers and doctors. Authorities in Tashkent have estimated that many hundreds of Uzbek nationals have joined the fight alongside IS in Syria. The Turkish official who was quoted by local and Western media as identifying the nationalities of the attackers on June 30 declined to be named because details of the investigation have not yet been released. He did not disclose any further details. Links To North Caucasus Investigators had been struggling to identify the bombers from their limited remains. The pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper said the Russian bomber was from Daghestan, which borders restive Chechnya in Russia's long-beleaguered North Caucasus region. Yeni Safak said the suspected organizer of the attack was a man of Chechen origin called Akhmed Chatayev. Chatayev is identified on a United Nations sanctions list as an IS leader responsible for training Russian-speaking militants, and he is wanted by Russian authorities. Turkey's Hurriyet newspaper named one of the attackers as a Chechen, Osman Vadinov, and said he had come from Raqqa, the de facto capital of IS militants in Syria and Iraq. But Interfax quoted Russian law enforcement as disputing anyone with that name had ever lived in Chechnya. The Dogan news agency said the Russian attacker had entered Turkey one month ago and left his passport in a house the men had rented in the Istanbul neighborhood of Fatih. The Karsi newspaper, quoting police sources, said the three suspected attackers were part of a seven-person cell who entered Turkey on May 25. The attackers raised the suspicion of airport security on the day of the attack because they showed up in winter jackets on a summer day, local media reported. The Turkish government confirmed the attackers arrived at the airport by regular taxi. Hurriyet newspaper quoted sources as saying the taxi driver told the authorities the assailants spoke a foreign language. Revelations of the suspects' nationalities came shortly after Turkish police said they had detained three foreigners among 13 individuals being held in connection with the attack. In separate large-scale police operations, nine suspects believed to be linked to IS were also detained in the coastal city of Izmir. It was not clear if those suspects had any links to the carnage at the airport. NATO member Turkey shares long, porous borders with both Syria and Iraq. Ankara has blamed IS militants for several major bombings over the past year, including in the capital and against tourists in Istanbul. Critics say Turkey woke up too late to the threat from IS militants, focusing instead on efforts to oust President Bashar al-Assad, arguing there could be no peace without his departure. Ankara adjusted its military rules of engagement this month to allow NATO allies to carry out more patrol flights along its border with Syria. With reporting by RFE/RL's Kyrgyz, Russian, and Uzbek services, AP, Reuters, and Interfax Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/turkey-raids- istanbul-attack/27830365.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey: Istanbul Airport Bombers Were From Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan by Ken Bredemeier June 30, 2016 Turkey says the three suicide bombers who carried out the deadly attack on the Istanbul airport were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Turkish officials continue to believe the attack was launched by Islamic State fighters, but did not name the bombers, who authorities say fired assault weapons at travelers and workers Tuesday at Ataturk International Airport before blowing themselves up. The death toll from the blasts at Europe's third busiest airport increased to 44, while more than 230 others were injured in the attack. Police raids Police conducted raids on 16 locations in three Istanbul neighborhoods Thursday, arresting 13 people suspected of having links to Islamic State. In addition, the state-run Anadolu Agency said authorities arrested nine people in the western coastal city of Izmir accused of having links to Islamic State fighters in Syria that included support for the group's finances, recruiting and logistics. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Wednesday the investigation is ongoing, but evidence points to Islamic State, though the militants have not claimed responsibility. He suggested the attack could have been a response to Turkish efforts to improve relations with Russia and Israel. U.S. Central Intelligence Agency chief John Brennan said the bombings had all the typical signs of Islamic State "depravity" and warned of the challenges of stopping that type of attack. "You look at what happened in the Turkish airport, these were suicide vests. It's not that difficult to actually construct and fabricate a suicide vest," he told Yahoo News. U.S. President Barack Obama said Wednesday at a summit of North American leaders in Canada that his government "will not rest until we have dismantled these networks of hate that have had an impact on the entire civilized world." His comments came after he spoke by telephone with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Erdogan said the attack "shows that terrorism strikes with no regard to faith and values." But he said Turkey "has the power, determination and capacity to continue the fight against terrorism until the end." The attack on the airport, Europe's third busiest, is the latest in a wave of bombings in Turkey over the past year that has killed more than 260 people. The terrorism has decimated Turkey's tourist industry on which the country's economy heavily relies. Islamic State has been blamed for two suicide bombings earlier this year in Istanbul that targeted foreign tourists. The rebel Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, has also carried out suicide bombings, but usually targets security forces. A PKK attack on a police bus earlier this month killed 11 people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia to Continue Rocket Engine Supplies to US Under Existing Contracts Sputnik News 19:28 29.06.2016(updated 19:30 29.06.2016) Russia will continue to supply the United States with RD-180 rocket engines under existing contracts despite calls from Washington for greater reliance on domestic procurement, Russian Ambassador to the United States Sergey Kislyak said in an interview with Sputnik. MOSCOW (Sputnik) The Russian envoy confirmed that existing contracts are being executed, adding that "everyone understands in the US space industry that they do not have the engines that we supply to them." "We will continue [the deliveries]. They are now saying that they need to ensure flights on American [rocket engines], but as my good friend said, 'the wind in their sails,' let them try to do so," Kislyak said. Earlier in June, Senate Armed Services Chairman John McCain attempted to cut off any further purchase of the Russian engines, proposing US companies compete to provide the United States with a reliable, domestic space launch platform. The two largest US defense contractors, Boeing and Lockheed Martin, use the RD-180 engine in their joint venture, the United Launch Alliance (ULA). Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Military expert: China's second aircraft carrier not far from entering the water People's Daily Online (People's Daily Online) 15:03, June 29, 2016 When receiving an interview at a program of China's CCTV, military expert Cao Weidong said that based on the construction progress reported by the media, China's second aircraft carrier may enter the water at the end of this year or early next year. According to a report made by CCTV, recently, many construction photos of China's second aircraft carrier were disclosed on the internet. The photos show that the hoisting of a section of the bow was finished recently. And based on the photos disclosed previously, the flight deck of the aircraft carrier has completed installation, and the construction of the ship has entered the final stage. Based on the published construction photos and satellite photos, this aircraft carrier under construction is almost the same size as the other aircraft carrier, the Liaoning. Speaking of when this aircraft carrier will enter the water and be deployed to the troops, Cao Weidong said that the construction of a ship usually has three stages: construction, entering the water and being in service. Construction means the building-up of the ship body. Entering the water means the ship floats on the sea but cannot leave its pier, during which stage relevant equipment will be installed in the ship; this stage is also called the fitting-out. After this stage, the ship will go through sea trails to examine its speed and the precision of the weapons. If the ship passes the sea trails with all the indicators reaching the standard, then the ship will be deployed, namely, being in service. According to Cao Weidong, after the flight deck is completed, it takes about a half year or nine months for the ship to enter the water for the fitting-out. So, based on the media reports on the construction progress, the second aircraft carrier will enter the water at the end of this year or early next year. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Two Chinese anti-terrorist forces dispatched to Russia for joint training People's Daily Online (People's Daily Online) 14:39, June 29, 2016 Two Chinese anti-terrorist forces, the Falcon Commando Unit and the Snow Leopard Commando Unit, set off to Russia for the "Cooperation-2016" joint anti-terrorist training on June 28. A departure ceremony was held in a training base for the outstanding soldiers who will leave for the event. This is the first time that China's two state-level anti-terrorist forces have gone to Russia together for the anti-terrorist training. Following the "Cooperation-2007" China-Russia joint military exercise and "Cooperation-2013" China-Russia joint anti-terrorist training, the joint training this year will further enhance the communication and mutual-trust of the two armies. The subjects of the China-Russia anti-terrorist training of this time will include weapons and equipment operation, team assault tactics, shooting, fistfight, climbing, rope descending, physical training and an integrated tactical drill with a fictitious scenario in which they need to exterminate a terrorist group in forest. Since June 8, the two commandos have gone through a 20-day intensive training as preparation for the trip to Russia. Zhou Kun, a member of the Falcon Commando Unit, said, "We will take the opportunity to strengthen the technique and tactics cooperation with the Russian team and exchange anti-terrorist experience with them. With real combat training, our anti-terrorist ability will be improved." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kim Expected to Solidify Control of North Korea With New Title by Brian Padden June 29, 2016 North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is expected to receive a new title that would reinforce his absolute hold on power, while holding in check the influence of the military. The young leader currently holds the titles of chairman of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and first chairman of the National Defense Commission (NDC). In a closed-door session of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) scheduled for Wednesday, Kim is likely to be named chairman of a newly restored state apparatus named the Central People's Committee (CPC). "If Kim Jong Un monopolizes the highest national position, followed by [the] highest position of the party, he will virtually become the highest leader of the regime," said North Korean defector and analyst Ahn Chan-il with the World Institute for North Korean Studies. The Central People's Committee was created in 1972 to oversee the military as well as civilian governmental functions. Kim Il Sung, the country's late founder and the grandfather of the current leader, served as the head of the committee. But his son Kim Jong Il abolished the CPC during his rule and strengthened the NDC's role, prioritizing a "songun," or military first policy. Kim Jong Un's expected restoration of his grandfather's power structure, analysts say, may diminish the influence of the military, and give greater voice to political advisers from the Workers' Party. In May, the North Korean leader also leaned toward his grandfather's style of governing by convening the first Workers' Party Congress held in 36 years that was also seen as a move to bolster his power and push forward his agenda. His father Kim Jong Il retained his party titles as well as military ones, but never convened a party congress. However in the authoritarian state of North Korea, parliamentary meetings serve to unanimously endorse decisions already made by the leadership. Popular support Since he assumed power in 2011, the young leader who is believed to be in his early thirties has set his own his "byeongjin" policy that prioritizes developing nuclear weapons and increasing economic development. North Korea continued development of nuclear weapons and multiple missile tests under Kim Jong Un has increased tensions with the international community. U.N. Security Council resolutions ban North Korea from developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile technology. This year the U.N. imposed tough new sanctions after the North conducted its fourth nuclear test and launched a long-range rocket into space. Pyongyang argues it needs nuclear weapons to deter or defend against a potential attack from the United States. The Kim Jong Un government has also been under increased international criticism for alleged widespread and ongoing human rights atrocities that include operating a network of political prisons, systematic torture and executions. But the North Korean leader's defiant stance against perceived international pressure may also be generating increased support at home. "The more pressure extended, exerted on the government of the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea), the more the government is seemingly supported by the public," said Marzuki Darusman, the U.N. Special Rapporteur on North Korea. Economic fallout Over time North Korea's is expected to pay a high economic price for its defiant stance on nuclear weapons. The international sanctions include suspending currency transfers and restricting the North's lucrative mineral trade that had accounted for over half of the country's $2.5 billion in exports to China alone. Pyongyang this week proposed reviving inter-Korean negotiation to improve relations but Seoul rejected the offer, saying North Korea must first suspend its nuclear program before any talks can occur. Youmi Kim in Seoul contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Achieving Self-Reliance: India Produces Homegrown Torpedo Sputnik News 17:33 29.06.2016(updated 17:39 29.06.2016) In a major boost for India's defense, its first indigenous torpedo "Varunastra" has been launched. In a major step towards "Make in India," India produced a domestically made torpedo called "Varunastra," raising the country to be one of the eight countries in the world to have the capability to design and build such a weapon. "Varunastra" is capable of targeting quiet and stealthy submarines, both in deep and shallow waters in intense countermeasure environments. "Varunastra" was developed by the Naval Science and Technology Laboratory, a unit of DRDO. The torpedo is an indigenous state of the art heavyweight ship-launched anti-submarine electric torpedo. Its weight is around 1.25 tonnes, carries 250 kg of explosives and has a speed of around 40 nautical miles per hour. The Indian navy has ordered 73 such torpedoes. Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar said that it will not only be a boost to country's indigenous capabilities but also an opportunity to export to other countries. "Successful induction of Varunastra into our navy will be a game changer in favor of the warships in the sub surface warfare. This landmark has put navy in elite club of navies across the globe that can boast of self-reliance in under water sensors and under water weapons," Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba told the media. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi forces, tribal fighter thwart Daesh onslaught on Amiriyah Fallujah Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 10:13AM Iraqi security personnel, backed by pro-government fighters from Popular Mobilization Units and tribal fighters, have managed to repel a massive offensive by members of the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in the country's beleaguered western province of al-Anbar. Major General Hadi Razij, the provincial police chief, told al-Sumaria television network on Wednesday that security forces and Lawa al-Amiriyah al-Samoud tribesmen, receiving support by Iraqi fighter jets and artillery units, repelled a Daesh onslaught on the town of Amiriyah Fallujah, located about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) south of Fallujah. He added that 450 vehicles belonging to the extremists were also destroyed in the process. Separately, Khamis al-Issawi, a Lawa al-Amiriyah al-Samoud tribal leader, said his fighters and security forces had destroyed a Daesh base on the fringes of Amiriyah Fallujah, noting that three tribesmen had been killed and six others injured during the clashes with Daesh militants. The northern and western parts of Iraq have been plagued by gruesome violence ever since Daesh terrorists mounted an offensive in the country in June 2014. Iraqi government forces, backed by fighters from allied Popular Mobilization Units, have been pushing the militants out of the country's territory. Iraqi forces liberated Fallujah on June 17. On Tuesday, elite counter-terrorism forces and their allies wrested control over Telol al-Baj area, which lies on the highway linking the town of al-Shirqat, situated about 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of the capital, Baghdad, to the southern part of Mosul. "Security personnel have liberated Telol al-Baj, and several units have been deployed four kilometers (2.4 miles) away from the area to prevent the infiltration of vehicles rigged with explosives into the region," Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, commander of Iraq's counterterrorism forces, said. He said Iraqi forces had inflicted heavy losses on the ranks of Daesh terrorists in Telol al-Baj. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi forces gain ground in march to retake militant-held Mosul Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 5:9AM Iraqi security forces have made new gains on the ground against the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group as they are trying to recapture the country's second-largest city of Mosul from the terrorists. On Tuesday, elite counter-terrorism forces and Popular Mobilization fighters retook control over Telol al-Baj area, which lies on the highway linking the town of al-Shirqat, situated about 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of the capital, Baghdad, to the southern part of Mosul, al-Forat news agency reported. "Security personnel have liberated Telol al-Baj, and several units have been deployed four kilometers (2.4 miles) away from the area to prevent the infiltration of vehicles rigged with explosives into the region," said Lieutenant General Abdul Ghani al-Assadi, the commander of Iraq's counterterrorism forces. He said the Iraqi forces had inflicted heavy losses on the ranks of Daesh terrorists in Telol al-Baj. Iraqi pro-government forces also engaged Daesh extremists in other parts of the northern Nineveh Province, killing scores of the Takfiris. Elsewhere, in the western province of al-Anbar, Iraqi security forces retook Halabisa and Albu Alwan areas on the outskirts of Fallujah, located roughly 69 kilometers (43 miles) west of Baghdad, and raised the national Iraqi flag in both regions. On June 18, Iraqi forces launched an offensive against Daesh terrorists to retake the southern part of Mosul and the town of Qayyarah, one day after they retook Fallujah. The forces aim to ultimately recapture the entire Mosul, which Daesh has proclaimed its headquarters in Iraq. The northern and western parts of Iraq have been plagued by gruesome violence ever since Daesh terrorists mounted an offensive in the country in June 2014. Iraqi government forces, backed by fighters from allied Popular Mobilization units, have been pushing the militants out of the country's territory. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gunmen kill 8 Pakistani security personnel in Quetta Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 5:14PM Gunmen have ambushed army and police patrols in two separate attacks across the troubled southwestern Pakistan, killing at least eight soldiers, officials say. According to paramilitary spokesman, Khan Wasey, two gunmen on a motorcycle attacked Wednesday an army vehicle in a market in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, killing four soldiers and wounding a civilian. Separately, police spokesman Shahzada Farhat said four police were also shot dead by militants late Tuesday in the volatile city. No group or individual has claimed responsibility for the killings, but pro-Taliban or Baloch militant groups have been blamed for such attacks in the past. Several top figures of the Afghan Taliban are believed to reside in Quetta. Pakistan's troubled Balochistan Province has been the scene of several bomb and gun attacks over the past years. Hundreds of Shia Muslims from the Hazara community have been killed in militant attacks there. Pakistan's mineral and gas-rich Balochistan province is rife with separatist, extremist and sectarian violence and has been the scene of numerous terrorist attacks over the past years. In the country's troubled northwestern tribal regions, Islamabad has been engaged in a major offensive against militant hideouts since June 2014, when a deadly raid on the Karachi International Airport ended the government's faltering peace talks with the pro-Taliban militants. Pakistan's army has intensified military operations against the militants since pro-Taliban elements killed over 150 people, most of them children, in an armed assault on a school in the northwestern city of Peshawar in December 2014. Thousands of people have been killed over the past decade as a result of a surge in violence in the country. Thousands more have been displaced by the wave of violence and militancy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistan deports 500 Afghan refugees Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 1:23PM Pakistan has deported at least 500 Afghan refugees following their detention in a northwestern border province, local officials say. Mushtaq Ahmad Ghani, the provincial information minister in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, said Wednesday that unregistered Afghans have become a major security issue for the Islamabad government. "We don't suggest any aggressive campaign against Afghan refugees, but we have been hosting them for the past 35 years and it is time they should go back to their country," Ghani said. The provincial minister also urged the federal government in Islamabad to review its policy on the refugees, saying, "If Pakistan wants to host them, then it needs to register them and bring them under a proper network." Abdul Qadir Baloch, Pakistan's federal minister for states and frontier regions, has warned that the country is not willing to host Afghan refugees indefinitely. The Afghan refugees who remain are routinely accused by authorities of harboring militants. Sartaj Aziz, foreign policy adviser to Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, told a Pakistani television channel last week that Afghan refugee camps have become "safe havens for terrorists." According to Pakistan's English-language Dawn newspaper, more than 2,000 Afghan refugees were detained in May, 400 of whom were deported to Afghanistan. The number of Afghans voluntarily returning home has plunged this year as violence worsens in Afghanistan. The United Nations Refugee Agency says about 6,000 Afghans have chosen to return home from Pakistan so far in 2016, well below last year's voluntary repatriations that amounted to over 58,000. The Pakistani government is still undecided on the renewal of the refugees' registration cards beyond June 30. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said during a recent visit to Pakistan that he had made the case to the government for extending the June 30 deadline. Grandi has urged Pakistanis not to blame the Afghan refugees for terrorism in their country amid growing calls for their deportation. He has warned that the 2.5 million Afghans in Pakistan risk becoming a forgotten crisis. The UN official has also called on the international community to fund efforts to support the Afghan refugees. Pakistan has the second-largest refugee population in the world. More than 1.5 million registered, and about a million unregistered, refugees from Afghanistan, have lived in Pakistan for decades and contribute significantly to its labor force. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Xi urges caution on possible deployment of U.S. missile system in ROK People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 18:06, June 29, 2016 BEIJING, June 29 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged the Republic of Korea (ROK) to address China's concerns on security and "cautiously and appropriately" address the United States' plan to deploy the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system in the country. Xi made the remarks as he met with visiting ROK Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn in Beijing. China and the ROK should continue to work for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, work together to maintain peace and stability on the Peninsula, and solve problems through dialogue and consultation, said the president. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Beijing Urges Seoul to Be Cautious About US Deployment of THAAD System Sputnik News 17:09 29.06.2016(updated 17:10 29.06.2016) Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Seoul to be cautious about the US plan to deploy its Terminal High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system in South Korea. MOSCOW (Sputnik) According to the Xinhua News Agency, Xi urged South Korea to "cautiously and appropriately" respond to US efforts to deploy the THAAD system in the country and to respect China's legitimate concern over its security. Xi made the comments when he met with South Korean Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn in Beijing, the agency said. Washington consultations with Seoul on the deployment of the THAAD system in the country began on March 4. In April, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said after a meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov that both states are concerned that the THAAD system's deployment could go beyond defense necessities and damage the strategic security of China and Russia. THAAD is a US missile defense system capable of shooting down short-, medium- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. In July 2015, North Korea said it might boost its nuclear deterrent should the United States deploy a mobile missile defense system in South Korea. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Alleged Russia threat pretext for NATO expansion: Moscow official Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 3:46PM A senior Russian official says the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is inching towards his country's borders using "unsubstantiated" claims about Moscow's threat. Alexei Pushkov, the head of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, made the remarks at a press conference in the capital, Moscow, on Wednesday. "We cannot understand why efforts are being taken to create NATO's military presence near Russian borders. There are no facts proving the Russian aggression - either in Estonia, or in Lithuania, or in Latvia, or in Poland. These are totally unsubstantiated things," Pushkov said. Based on different opinion polls in several countries, "no one believes that some kind of a threat is coming from Russia," he added. The US government and its allies pursue an "anti-Russian policy," but Europe should understand that Moscow is "an absolutely artificial target created by the circles interested in maintaining an atmosphere of conflict with Russia," Pushkov further said. NATO is expected to send units to Romania as part of plans to expand its presence in Eastern Europe. The Western military alliance will also send four battalions to Poland as well as the Baltic states of Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia, which are likely to number 2,500-3,000 troops combined with a small force designed to act as a tripwire. The deployment is slated to be formally authorized during a summit in the Polish capital city of Warsaw next month. Russia taking 'measures' in face of NATO build-up In another development on Wednesday, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu (pictured below) told a Defense Ministry meeting that his country is taking "measures" of strategic deterrence in a bid to neutralize potential NATO threats. "Such actions of our Western counterparts lead to undermining the strategic stability in Europe and force us to take response measures, first, in the Western strategic area," Shoigu said. He further denounced the increase of the US and NATO military activities near the Russian frontiers as a destabilizing factor. The alliance has deployed up to 30 warplanes, some 1,200 pieces of military equipment and more than 1,000 troops on a rotation basis to Eastern Europe, the Russian official added. NATO has stepped up its military build-up near Russia's borders since it suspended all ties with Moscow in April 2014 after the Black Sea Crimean Peninsula re-integrated into the Russian Federation following a referendum. Moscow has repeatedly repudiated NATO's expansion near its borders, saying such a move poses a threat to both regional and international peace. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Putin orders government to normalize trade ties with Turkey Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 12:54PM Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his government to start the process of normalizing trade ties with Turkey, seven months after Ankara-Moscow relations went into a downward spiral following Turkey's shooting down of a Russian jet last year. "I ask that the Russian government begins the process of normalizing general trade and economic ties with Turkey," Putin said at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, following a telephone conversation with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Putin said that Russia has also decided to lift travel restrictions against Turkey in the tourism sector. "I want to start with the question of tourism... We are lifting the administrative restrictions in this area," the Russian president said. Moscow-Ankara relations became strained last November after Turkey shot down a Russian Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft with two pilots aboard, claiming the fighter jet had repeatedly violated Turkish airspace. Ankara argued that the Russian plane strayed into its airspace and ignored repeated warnings. Russia, however, insisted the aircraft did not cross the border and accused Ankara of "planned provocation." Moscow said the plane was brought down in Syrian airspace, where Russia has been conducting combat sorties against Takfiri terrorists since late September 2015 upon a request by the Damascus government. Of the two pilots aboard the warplane, one was rescued with the help of the Syrian army, but the other was killed by militants fighting the Syrian government. Following the incident, Russia imposed a raft of sanctions against Ankara, including import restriction on Turkish foods, a ban on tourist travel to Turkey, an embargo on hiring Turkish citizens in Russia, and a ban on Turkish organizations' activities in Russia. Moscow also suspended all military deals with Ankara. On Monday, the Kremlin said that the Turkish president apologized to Putin over Ankara's shooting down of the Russian jet. Turkey, however, said later it had only expressed regret to Russia, denying reports of an apology, and retracting a compensation pledge. The Wednesday phone call between the Russian and the Turkish leader came after Putin expressed sympathy for the victims of the Tuesday night gun and bomb attacks at Istanbul's Ataturk international airport, which claimed the lives of 41 people and injured 239 others. Meanwhile, a Turkish official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that the Turkish leader is expected to meet with his Russian counterpart on the sidelines of the forthcoming G20 summit in China in September. The meeting between the two presidents would be their first face-to-face talks for months, following the diplomatic row. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Putin, Erdogan talk on telephone: Kremlin Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 9:48AM Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have held their first phone conversation since Ankara downed one of Moscow's jets in Syria last year, the Kremlin said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the talks, with Erdogan's office saying both leaders expressed a determination to revive mutual relations and fight against terrorism. The call was arranged after Erdogan expressed regret in a letter to Putin on Monday over Turkey's downing of a Russian warplane last year. The two also agreed during their call to meet in person, Erdogan's office said, adding that "necessary steps" should be taken to revive relations. Turkish presidential sources also said that Erdogan's conversation with the Russian leader was "very productive and positive." The phone call came after Putin expressed sympathy for the victims of gun and bomb attacks at the Istanbul airport Ataturk international airport. Some 41 people were killed and 239 others injured in attacks on Tuesday night. "We are sorry, and we sympathize with the victims of the terrorist attack that happened yesterday," Putin said earlier on Wednesday. Moscow-Ankara ties strained last November after Turkey shot down a Russian Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft with two pilots aboard, claiming the fighter jet had repeatedly violated the Turkish airspace. Ankara had argued that the Russian plane strayed into its airspace and ignored repeated warnings, but Russia insisted it did not cross the border and accused Ankara of a "planned provocation." Moscow said the plane was brought down in Syrian airspace, where Russia has been conducting combat sorties against Takfiri terrorists since late September 2015 upon a request by the Damascus government. Of the two pilots aboard the warplane, one was rescued with the help of the Syrian army, but the other was killed by militants fighting the Syrian government. Following the incident, Moscow imposed a number of sanctions on Ankara, including import restriction on Turkish foods, a ban on tourist travel to Turkey, an embargo on hiring Turkish citizens in Russia, and a ban on Turkish organizations' activities in Russia. On Monday, Kremlin said that the Turkish President apologized to Putin over Ankara's shooting down of the Russian jet. According to Kremlin, Erdogan expressed his desire "to resolve the situation connected to the downing of a Russian military aircraft." Turkey, however, later said that it had only expressed regrets to Russia, denying reports of an apology, and retracted a compensation pledge. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Diplomat Tackled, Injured By Guard Outside Moscow Embassy June 29, 2016 by Mike Eckel WASHINGTON -- A U.S. official has told RFE/RL that a U.S. diplomat was tackled and injured by a Russian security service guard outside the U.S. Embassy in Moscow earlier this month in what appeared to be an unprovoked attack. The June 6 incident came amid an increasing number of tense encounters between U.S. diplomats and Russian security officials in Moscow and elsewhere, something that U.S. officials have complained openly about in recent days. In the incident, which was first reported by The Washington Post, the diplomat had just shown his embassy badge to the guard, one of several that help monitor the perimeter of the massive U.S. Embassy complex and who work for the Federal Security Service (FSB), the country's main security agency. The guard then tackled the diplomat, leaving him with a broken shoulder. The diplomat was able to walk into the embassy compound under his own power and he later left the country for medical treatment, according to the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly. "It was definitely intentional," the official told RFE/RL. Diplomats in Moscow and Washington have met with their Russian counterparts to complain about the incident and others that come as U.S.-Russian relations sink to their lowest point since the Cold War, following sanctions imposed against Russia for its actions in Ukraine and increased NATO and Russian military presences on each side of Russia's western border. U.S. diplomats in Moscow have reported being pulled over by Moscow traffic police about five dozen times over the past month, an unusual number in a city where diplomats are usually afforded leeway for things like minor traffic violations. The embassy spokesman this week reported returning home to find cigarettes in his apartment; another official reportedly returned home to find the water taps turned on. Comments by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova suggested deeper ongoing problems when she blamed the United States for the current tensions. "Diplomacy is based on reciprocity. The more the U.S. damages relations, the harder it will be for U.S. diplomats to work in Russia," she told a briefing in Moscow on June 28. Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/russia-us-diplomat- injured-moscow-embassy-guard/27828852.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address All New Russian Navy Ships, Submarines to Be Equipped With Fizik-1 Torpedo Sputnik News 17:22 29.06.2016 All new Russian Navy ships and submarines will be equipped with the Fizik-1 universal deep water homing torpedo which has a target range 2.5 times greater than the USET-80, currently in service, a military source told RIA Novosti on Wednesday. MOSCOW (Sputnik) The source added that although the same size, the torpedo had a broader range, a more powerful warhead and a perfected homing system. "The Russian Navy began rearmament using the new 533-millimeter caliber Fizik-1 torpedo with an increased strike range of up to 50 kilometers [31 miles]," the source said. The new torpedo is estimated to be 7.2 meters (23 feet) long, weigh 2,200 kilograms (4,850 pounds) and have a warhead weighing 300 kilograms. The engine uses specially designed fuel instead of oxygen and water. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Navy's 'Road Hog': US Destroyer 'Deliberately Provoked' Russian Ship Sputnik News 14:48 29.06.2016(updated 14:49 29.06.2016) USS Gravely, a guided missile destroyer, came dangerously close to Russia's Yaroslav Mudry patrol boat in what was clearly a "deliberate provocation" and "lack of maritime culture," Captain 1st rank Mikhail Lukanin told Radio Sputnik. "Similar incidents were frequent during the Cold War, then everything was seemingly calm for a while and now they are back," he noted. "The United States has carried out a policy of 'countering Russia' in all spheres. I think this incident was a clear provocation aimed at getting on the nerves of our seamen." Lukanin compared the USS Gravely's maneuver to the way road hogs cut off a disciplined driver on a highway. The incident that involved the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer making a close and swift pass on the Russian frigate took place on June 17 in the international waters of the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The Russian Defense Ministry described it as a "gross violation" of bilateral and international agreements. Lukanin mentioned that the US Navy's ship broke both written and unwritten rules of the maritime code of conduct. He singled out the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) that was signed by 21 nations in 2014. CUES is meant to reduce the risk of maritime incidents, but the agreement is not legally binding. "There is also the 1972 US-Soviet Incidents at Sea agreement meant to prevent dangerous encounters at open sea and airspace above. The deal does not provide specific distance requirements, but it stipulates that ships must maintain a safe distance so that they are not in each other's way," he detailed. Lukanin pointed out that ships are incapable of changing course easily due to inertia. This is why these agreements were signed in the first place. "In this case these agreements were flagrantly violated," he noted. Konstantin Sivkov, president of the Academy of Geopolitical Problems, described USS Gravely's maneuver as a "typical step" that was aimed at creating "tense atmosphere" through a threat of collision. The Pentagon has drastically increased its military presence in the region earlier this month. USS Gravely is part of a carrier strike group, led by the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman that was deployed to the region to take part in Washington's anti-Daesh campaign. In addition, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower has also been sent to the Mediterranean to launch strikes against the terrorist group. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daesh rocket attack kills four in Syria Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 9:18AM At least four civilians have lost their lives and nearly a dozen others sustained injuries in a rocket attack by Takfiri Daesh terrorists against a residential neighborhood in Syria's eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr. A security source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said four people were killed and 12 others were injured when several rockets fired by Daesh militants struck the al-Jorah neighborhood of the city on Tuesday, al-Ahed news website reported. Dayr al-Zawr is located 450 kilometers (280 miles) northeast of the Syrian capital, Damascus. The projectiles also caused damage to several houses and public properties at the targeted areas. On June 18, more than 15 people were killed when several militant rockets struck Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood in Syria's strategic northwestern city of Aleppo. In a separate development, Daesh militants executed five youths in eastern Syria on charges of "espionage." The terrorists decapitated the victims, whom they had arrested three months ago, in the city of al-Bukamal, which lies 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Dayr al-Zawr, after accusing them of forming a cell and spying for Syrian government forces. Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura estimates that over 400,000 people have been killed in the conflict. The UN has stopped its official casualty count in Syria, citing its inability to verify the figures it receives from various sources. A ceasefire brokered by the US and Russia went into effect in Syria on February 27, but it does not apply to the Daesh and al-Nusra Front terrorist groups in the Arab country. The Syrian army has vowed to press ahead with its counter-terror operations and uproot the terrorists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria opp. threatens to quit peace talks, urges no-fly zone Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 8:23AM Syrian opposition groups have threatened to walk away from peace talks with the government, and demanded the establishment of a no-fly zone over the Arab country by foreign countries. Two dozen opposition groups wrote to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday, voicing dissatisfaction with the ongoing peace talks in Geneva and threatening to quit unless their demands are met. The signatories further called on Ban to validate the air-dropping of aid to various areas of the country "irrespective of Syrian regime consent." They also urged the UN chief to refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court - an idea which UN Security Council members Russia and China have vetoed in the past. Predicting another veto, the groups called on Ban to urge member states to consider a special tribunal for Syria or to prosecute cases under universal jurisdiction. "But if the international community cannot even protect our ability to serve and assist Syrian society, our presence in Geneva is not only meaningless, it is unnecessary," they said. Back in April, the talks foundered after the Saudi-backed opposition group abandoned the negotiating table. The High Negotiations Committee (HNC) left the negotiations to protest at what it called escalating violence and restrictions on humanitarian access in Syria and declared a "new war" on the government. Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. The UN has stopped its official casualty count in Syria, but UN special envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura estimates that over 400,000 people have been killed in the conflict. On Wednesday, reports said a coalition of Kurdish, Arab, Assyrian, Armenian, and Turkmen fighters had seized a military airport held by Daesh terrorists near the Iraqi border. The UK-based Observatory for Human Rights said the operation took place at dawn, leading to the liberation of the Hamadan airport. Daesh controls the nearby town of al-Bukamal, whose recapture would hamper the militants' ability to move between the Iraqi and Syrian territories of their self-declared headquarters, namely Mosul in Iraq and Raqqah in Syria. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Syria Envoy Urges Political Progress by August by Margaret Besheer June 29, 2016 U.N. Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura says if he can restart intra-Syrian talks in July, there still is a possibility of moving forward on a political transition by an August deadline. "I'm still aiming, we are aiming within July, but not at any cost and not without some guarantees; and aiming at August as the period where we should be seeing something concrete, so that in September we take stock," de Mistura told reporters after he briefed the U.N. Security Council in a closed session Wednesday. He underscored that the next round of talks must be very well prepared because they likely will be the last before world leaders convene for their annual meetings in New York in mid-September. De Mistura noted that the September General Assembly session will be the final one for outgoing U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, as well as for U.S. President Barack Obama. The G20 summit also is planned for early September in China, and that could be the last time Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet. The United States and Russia co-chair the International Syria Support Group (ISSG), and each back major parties to the conflict. Moscow supports Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Washington backs moderate opposition groups. Turning on the pressure "Yes, I am putting pressure on all parties," de Mistura told reporters. "I think that the main parties who can make this happen need to feel that they have an historic responsibility." An August 1 deadline is looming over the talks, imposed by a U.N. Security Council resolution and backed by the ISSG. The resolution sets August 1 as the target date for the parties to reach agreement on a framework for a genuine political transition, which would include a broad, inclusive, non-sectarian transitional governing body with full executive powers. "What we need is that the stakeholders do come with a feeling of urgency and work on some ideas on how to bridge their differences between what everyone means by political transition," de Mistura said. On the humanitarian front, de Mistura welcomed the news that all 18 besieged areas of Syria have now been reached with aid. The U.N. announced Wednesday that it had finally succeeded in reaching the remaining two besieged towns on a list of 18 locations in Syria. The towns of Arbin and Zamalka received their first aid deliveries since November 2012. The U.N. and its partners have now been able to access all 18 besieged locations in Syria through cross-line operations and airdrops. "It's quite a landmark," de Mistura said, "[But it's] not enough." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan keeps door open to China for bilateral communication: MAC ROC Central News Agency 2016/06/29 21:23:45 Taipei, June 29 (CNA) Taiwan has kept its door open to China for bilateral contact and communication, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) said Wednesday. The MAC, which is in charge of monitoring exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, made the declaration in response to remarks made by An Fengshan (), a spokesman for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, in a press conference in Beijing earlier that day, in which he reiterated that the "1992 Consensus" is the political foundation for cross-strait ties and blamed Taiwan for the current suspension of the bilateral contact and communication. It is the common goal and responsibility of the two sides of the strait to maintain peace and stability in the region, as well as to safeguard their people's welfare and interests, the MAC noted in its statement, adding that the two sides should try to resolve differences existing between them through dialogue and demonstrate goodwill toward each other with wisdom and patience. Since it has taken office on May 20, Taiwan's new government has upheld the spirit of seeking common ground and setting aside differences that was demonstrated by the two sides of the strait in the "1992 talks" and has been actively seeking areas of mutual interest for interactions and exchanges between them, the MAC said. "These are the constructive measures taken by the new government and the goodwill it has demonstrated to promote virtuous interactions between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, while creating more room for resolving bilateral disputes peacefully," it stressed. President Tsai Ing-wen () said in her inaugural speech that she respects the historical fact that representing each side across the Strait, Taiwan's Strait Exchange Foundation (SEF) and its Chinese counterpart, the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), have achieved various joint acknowledgements and understandings through communication and negotiations in 1992, and that her administration will handle cross-strait affairs based on the Republic of China's (Taiwan) Constitution, the Act Governing Relations Between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area and other related laws, the MAC emphasized. President Tsai has clearly stated the important implications and the existing political foundations for the future development of cross-Strait relations, it said. (By Kao Chao-fen and Romulo Huang) Enditem/ke NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkish opposition lashes out at Erdogan over Israel, Russia developments Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 6:7AM The Turkish opposition has harshly criticized President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's recent political maneuvers, including the normalization of ties with Israel. Opposition parties on Tuesday blasted Recep Tayyip Erdogan's recent back-to-back reconciliation with Israel and expression of regret over the downing of a Russian jet by Turkey, Hurriyet Daily News reported. On Monday, Israel and Turkey announced they would normalize ties after a six-year rupture caused by the killing of Gaza-bound Turkish activists by Israeli forces. Hours after the announcement, Moscow said the Turkish head of state had "apologized" to Russian President Vladimir Putin in a letter over the shooting down of a Russian aircraft near the Syrian border back in November 2015. Turkey, however, later said it had not "apologized," saying it had expressed regret and condolences with the family of one of the pilots of the jet who was killed in the incident. Slamming the normalization agreement, Kemal Klcdaroglu, the head of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), asked, "How can you sign such a deal?... Are you with your country, with justice or with those Israeli soldiers who killed [Turkish citizens]?" "Turkey faced an action [by Israel, which was] suitable for a pirate state," he added, expressing further wonder at the rapprochement. Figen Yuksekdag, the co-chair of the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), also said the most crucial item of the deal with Israel was selling "Palestinian" natural gas to Europe. "They are making a deal to market what belongs to orphan children in Palestine," she said. "They are selling the words that they call 'sacred' at another bargaining table." Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) head Devlet Bahceli, meanwhile, said the deal sharply contrasted Erdogan's stiff criticism of Israeli aggression in the past. "The president had repeatedly accused Israel of being a terror state. Israel was killing Gazan children on beaches. Erdogan was rightfully criticizing this heavily. He said Israel even surpassed Hitler in barbarism," he said. "This means that the government has been meeting with Israel for years secretly and we were not aware of this." Klcdaroglu and Yuksekdag also vented anger at the expression of condolences to Moscow over the downing of the Russian jet, which Ankara said had violated Turkish airspace near Syria. "Who are you to apologize? If you are to represent the Turkish Republic, then do it in a proper way," Klcdaroglu said. "You cannot represent the Turkish Republic. You don't have the power or capability for this." "Who breached our border? The Russians. Who set the rules of engagement? We did it, and we declared it to the whole world." Yuksekdag said Erdogan had apologized for the downing of the jet but was pretending to have only offered an expression of regret. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey Airport Attack Points to Spreading Regional War by Sharon Behn June 29, 2016 Tuesday's suicide attack at Istanbul's Ataturk airport, that killed at least 41 people and wounded more than 200, highlights how far Turkey has fallen from its former status as a regional example of stability. Terror attacks have been growing across Turkey, with several targeting Istanbul a city historically considered the meeting place of the European and Asian continents. With its once thriving economy and robust tourism sector, the country's financial boom has now gone bust. Tourist arrivals are down about one-third this past year. There has been no claim of responsibility for the latest incident, but Turkish prime minister Binali Yildrim said Tuesday's attack seemed to have the hallmarks of an Islamic State operation. It almost mirrored the March 22 attack claimed by IS on the international airport in Brussels that left 32 people dead. The Institute for the Study of War had predicted an increase in IS attacks in Turkey during the Islamic June 5-July 5 holy month of Ramadan,as part of the extremist group's attempt to reorient its strategy in the region. "ISIS will likely select targets in neighboring states that relieve pressure from the group in Syria while setting conditions for future expansion in those states," ISW wrote. "Targets that serve this dual purpose include foreign tourists, state security forces, and U.S. military elements in Turkey and Jordan." Prime Minister Yildrim said in a news conference shortly after the attacks Tuesday that many of the victims of the attacks were foreign nationals. Regional factors: Islamic State An increasing number of terrorist bombings on Turkish soil have killed hundreds (see chart). While the Turkish government blames many of the attacks on the Kurdish separatist PKK group, many have been attributed to the Islamic State. Reporting from Istanbul, VOA's Dorian Jones says analysts believe IS has large numbers of fighters who are Turkish nationals. Sources say Islamic State's recent losses in Iraq also may have prompted Tuesday's attack on the airport, according to Jones. Iraqi forces seized IS's last positions in Fallujah on Sunday after a month-long operation, establishing full control over one of the extremists' most emblematic bastions. The Kurds Ankara claims that Kurdish militants fighting Islamic State in neighboring Syria are an extension of the PKK, which has been fighting for Kurdish autonomy within Turkey since the 1970s. Turkey's animosity towards the U.S.-allied Kurdish fighters has put it at odds with Washington, even while it is allied with the U.S. in the fight against Islamic State and the ouster of Syria's Russian-backed regime. Ankara has bombed Kurdish fighters it believes allied with PKK in both Syria and Iraq, and has moved to crush the Kurdish movement inside its own borders, further inflaming Kurdish separatist violence. Syrian conflict Syria's civil war has now been going for more than five years, and armed groups roam both sides of the 804-kilometer Turkey-Syria border. Ankara has been accused of allowing foreign fighters to cross over to join groups like Islamic State. Nearly 2.5 million Syrians are now estimated to be living in Turkey, stretching the country's resources and fomenting resentment among the Turkish population. World politics Tuesday's attack came just days after Ankara announced it would normalize diplomatic ties with Israel, after a 2010 incident in which Turkish activists trying to break Israel's aid blockade on the Gaza Strip were killed by Israeli security forces. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also reached out to Russia this week, sending a letter of apology over the shooting down of a Russian warplane near the country's border with Syria. Observers say that Erdogan's alignment with Israel and Russia may have angered IS and Tuesday's attack was a result. Dorian Jones in Istanbul has contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey Roadside Bomb Kills 2 Soldiers, Wounds 3 by VOA News June 29, 2016 A roadside bomb killed two soldiers and wounded three others in Turkey's Mardin province Wednesday. The explosive device was detonated by remote control when an armored military vehicle was passing some 35 kilometers from the Derik district at about 3:00 PM local time. Another attack was carried out against a military team patrolling a rural area in Lice in Diyarbakir province. The military has recently been involved in an operation to destroy illegal cannabis fields in the region. There has been no immediate claim of responsibility for Wednesday's blasts. The attacks came only hours after three suicide explosions at Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport left at least 41 people dead and more than 200 wounded, some in critical condition. Turkey has been hit by multiple attacks on civilians and the military in the past several months, carried out by Islamic State or PKK (Kurdish Workers Party) militants. Islamic State has been targeting civilians, while the PKK has been targeting Turkish police and military since July in its quest for autonomy in Turkey's southeast. An estimated 500 Turkish security personnel have been killed while fighting Kurdish rebels, according to the military, which claims to have killed nearly 5,000 PKK militants in Turkey and northern Iraq. VOA's Turkish Service contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK can't cherry pick EU rules in future relationship: Hollande Iran Press TV Wed Jun 29, 2016 4:53AM The UK will not be able to cherry pick the European Union's rules in its future relationship with the bloc, French President Francois Hollande says. Hollande said on Tuesday that Britain would not be able to keep all the advantages of the EU's single market but refuse free movement of people. "The four freedoms: we cannot have the freedom of capital movement, the freedom of goods, the freedom of services and then say, 'when it comes to people, stay put!' Well no, it doesn't work that way. It is the four freedoms or none," the French President said as he arrived at a summit of EU leaders in Brussels. In a referendum held in the UK last week, a majority of Britons voted to leave the 28-member bloc after 43 years of membership. The vote result sent shockwaves through the political and economic sectors both in the UK and in Europe. It also led to the announcement of the resignation of British Prime Minister David Cameron, who had campaigned extensively for the UK to stay in the EU. The UK should invoke Article 50 of the EU Lisbon Treaty in order to set out a two-year timetable for negotiations on withdrawal. Cameron said it is up for the next prime minister to activate Article 50 and begin formal talks for the country's exit from the bloc. Hollande also urged Britain to begin the negotiations "as fast as possible" as other EU states do not have "time to lose" to plan their future without the UK. He also noted that it was a historic moment for the EU but that "history continues" and "Europe doesn't stop" with Britain's decision to leave. Also on Tuesday, the European Parliament held a session during which European Commission President Jean-Claude Junker did not speak English. He addressed the EU lawmakers in French and German languages. Earlier this week, Danuta Hubner, the head of the European Parliament's Constitutional Affairs Committee, said English will not be among EU's official languages after Britain departs from the bloc. "We have a regulation where every EU country has the right to notify one official language," she said, adding that only the UK has notified English and "If we don't have the UK, we don't have English." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU Leaders Rethink Future, Warn U.K. No 'A La Carte' June 29, 2016 by RFE/RL European Union leaders have issued increasingly stern warnings that Britain cannot have unfettered access to the single market after withdrawing from the EU without accepting the bloc's rules on free movement. "There will be no single market a la carte," European Council President Donald Tusk said in Brussels on June 29 after a meeting of the 27 EU leaders without British Prime Minister David Cameron. "Leaders made it crystal-clear today that access to the single market requires acceptance of all four freedoms, including freedom of movement," Tusk said of the trading bloc that currently eliminates borders and other regulatory obstacles among more than 500 million people. The German and French leaders have said the same. Tusk reiterated that negotiations on Britain's future relationship with the EU cannot start until the Lisbon Treaty's Article 50 exit procedure is formally triggered by the British government -- a step that Cameron and other British politicians have shown a reluctance to take despite the 52 percent-48 percent victory for the "leave" side in the country's June 23 referendum. The former Polish prime minister also said there would be another meeting on September 16 in Bratislava, Slovakia, of EU leaders, excluding Britain, to discuss the implications of Britain's exit from the bloc. The British vote dealt a heavy blow to fellow EU members and supporters of the decades-long effort to tie the political and economic fates of Europe together, and comes with a migration crisis tugging at the continent's seams. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Europe faced "a very serious situation" with Britain wanting to leave, but she added, "We think that we 27 can deal with this situation." Merkel said that the lesson from the U.K. referendum isn't necessarily either deeper integration or returning more powers to national governments. "This is not about more or less Europe as a principle, but about achieving results better," she said. On June 28, Cameron attended what was expected to be his final EU summit, after he conceded defeat in the so-called "Brexit" referendum and announced his intention to stand down by October. Cameron said there was "universal respect" for Britain's decision to leave despite a "tone of sadness and regret." He said the British voters' decision couldn't be reversed despite street protests by thousands of pro-EU demonstrators in London and moves by the opposition Labour Party to force a second referendum. Cameron also stressed that his country will not turn its back on Europe, saying trade and security cooperation would be vital whatever the future brings. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other EU leaders renewed their call for Britain to set out plans as soon as possible for leaving and insisted that there can be no negotiations before London has formally invoked the Lisbon Treaty's Article 50 exit procedures, which set a two-year deadline for agreeing the trade and other terms of an exit. The leaders also said they would give Britain some time to put new leadership in place and start the process of carrying out the withdrawal, while making clear that they would take a strict stand in negotiations with London over post-Brexit relations. Britain "has collapsed, politically, monetarily, constitutionally, and economically," Rutte said. "It would be unreasonable to insist. Let them get their political house in order." "Europe is ready to start the divorce process, even today," EU Council President Tusk said, adding that he understood that time was needed "for the dust to settle" in Britain before the next steps can be taken. But European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker warned that Britain did not have "months to meditate," saying London could activate Article 50 shortly after Cameron's successor takes office. Over dinner with the other EU leaders, Cameron urged them to consider reforming the EU's rules on freedom of movement, a central tenet of the economic bloc, saying he believed that free movement was "one of the driving factors in people voting to leave." French President Francois Hollande rejected that suggestion, saying continued access to the EU's prized single market was dependent on accepting the freedoms of movement of goods, capital, workers, and services. "If they don't want free movement, they won't have access to the single market," he said. "Whoever leaves the family can't expect the same privileges as it had before without also having the obligations," according to Merkel. Later on June 29, Juncker will meet in Brussels with Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who has announced plans to defend U.K. member Scotland's place in the EU and was given a formal mandate by the Scottish parliament for direct talks with EU institutions. Sturgeon held talks earlier in the day with European Parliament President Martin Schulz, after which she declared, "Scotland is determined to stay in the EU." Schulz said he had "listened and learned." Scotland is to draw up legislation for an independence referendum to ensure it could be held during any negotiations for Britain to leave the bloc. Cameron has rejected the initiative, saying Scottish voters already rejected independence in a 2014 referendum. Fellow U.K. member Northern Ireland also voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU. With reporting by Reuters, AP, dpa, and AFP Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/farewell-british-prime- minister-cameron-eu-leader-give-britain-some-time-to- start-exit-process-summit-brussels/27827411.html Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CHICAGO, June 30, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orbitz.com has partnered with the Nevada Division of Tourism to launch its latest Orbitz Originals video series entitled Nevada: Stories from the Road." The five-part online video series, hosted by award-winning travel expert Richard Bangs, highlights Nevadas rugged and picturesque backcountry experiences. To ensure customers get both great ideas and great deals, series viewers can receive discounts of up to 15 percent off select hotel rooms in Nevada using promotion code BYEBYE.1 The Nevada installment of the Orbitz Originals series is available to watch on Nevadas page on Orbitz.com. "The Orbitz Originals series aims to inspire travelers to explore destinations off the beaten path, said Christopher Day, Senior Director of Marketing for Orbitz.com. "While Las Vegas is the most popular vacation spot within Nevada, there are so many other wonderful sites. This series shows viewers a different side of Nevada and gives travelers so many ideas and options when visiting the Silver State. Orbitz Originals takes viewers on a road trip from Las Vegas to Reno, winding through spacious scenery and making pit stops at adventure-inducing destinations along the way. Highlights from the five-part series include: "Day 1: Las Vegas to Caliente kicks-off the adventure with a drive through the Mojave Desert, stopping at Area 51 and the town of Caliente. Caliente is an up-and-coming mountain biking destination and the gateway to several state parks. "Day 2: Pioche to Baker" follows the backbone of eastern Nevada through remote landscapes, breathtaking vistas and the town of Pioche. Although tiny in population, Pioche has a big personality and epitomizes the maverick spirit of the wild, wild West. "Day 3: Great Basin National Park to Ely" guides viewers through Great Basin National Park, the only national park entirely in Nevada. At Great Basin hikers, campers and roamers can explore extraordinary landscapes and wondrous natural caves. "Day 4: Ely to Kingston" transports viewers to Eureka, the historical centerpiece of The Loneliest Road in America. This episode transports viewers to the old west and features lots of fun saloon shenanigans. "Day 5: Kingston to Reno" ends the road trip with stops at Stokes Castle in Austin and Middlegate, population 17, where visitors can devour a Middlegate Monster burger. A serious challenge even for the heartiest appetites. From the famously mysterious Area 51 to the dark and serene slot canyons in Cathedral Gorge, visitors to Nevada can unlock their Dont Fence Me In spirit, said Claudia Vecchio, Director of Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. "Were thrilled to be part of the Orbitz Originals series to show all this state has to offer. We like to say that where the road ends, Nevada begins and these videos beacon all adventurers to explore Nevadas extraordinary back-road and off-road locations. To date, millions of travelers have viewed Orbitz Originals videos highlighting must-see destinations including Cancun, the Cayman Islands, Qatar, Vermont, Western Ireland, New York, Northern Ireland, Bradenton, Florida, Puerto Rico, Jackson Hole, Bermuda and Australias Northern Territory. Those destinations have experienced double-digit growth over the life of each campaign. All editions of Orbitz Originals can be found on the Orbitz YouTube channel. Plus, owners of the Amazon Fire TV or Fire TV Stick can now access these videos by downloading the Orbitz Travel Guides app for Fire TV. 1BYEBYE: Subject to the restrictions set out in these terms and conditions, the 15% promotion code may be applied to a qualifying stand-alone hotel (not a hotel booking in combination with any other product such as flight+hotel or flight+hotel+car) booked online with orbitz.com between June 30, 2016 12:01AM CT and July 31, 2016 11:59PM CT, for 1 or more nights for travel between June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2016. Qualifying bookings instantly receive 15% off at check-out through the use of the promotion code. Limit one discount per hotel room and one promotion code per itinerary. Exclusions may apply and most major hotel chains are excluded. Orbitz reserves the right to change or limit the promotion in its sole discretion. Usual booking terms and conditions apply (see https://www.orbitz.com/p/info-other/legal.htm) and all bookings are subject to availability. About Orbitz.com Orbitz.com is a leading travel website where millions of consumers search for and book a broad range of hotels, flights, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages and destination activities. Orbitz.com now offers the groundbreaking Orbitz Rewards loyalty programthe only program where customers can earn rewards immediately on flights, hotels and packages, and redeem instantly on tens of thousands of hotels worldwide. Use the Orbitz Rewards Visa Card to earn even more rewards. Orbitz.com is the #1 way to book travel on mobile devices, be it using our apps (get them at orbitz.com/mobile) or our smartphone-optimized website (m.orbitz.com), both of which are tailored for smartphones and tablets. Follow Orbitz on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and through the Orbitz Travel Blog. Orbitz.com is owned by Expedia, Inc., one of the world's leading travel companies. About The Nevada Division of Tourism The Nevada Division of Tourism (TravelNevada) is part of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs which promotes and markets Nevada as a tourism destination for domestic and international leisure and business travelers through its marketing and advertising programs and by coordinating partnerships between public and private entities. For more Nevada travel experiences, visit TravelNevada.com. 2016 Orbitz, LLC. All rights reserved. Orbitz, Orbitz.com, and the Orbitz logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Orbitz, LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners. CST# 2063530-50; Hawaii TAR 6881; Iowa 644; Washington 602-108-724 Adding Richard M. Osborne to the Board would likely present additional costly regulatory challenges for Gas Natural Richard M. Osborne and Darryl L. Knight are stealing customers, according to Gas Natural, and jeopardizing the safety of the public Urging shareholders to vote FOR the Gas Natural Director nominees on the GREEN proxy card CLEVELAND, June 30, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gas Natural Inc. (NYSE MKT:EGAS) (the Company), a holding company operating local natural gas utilities serving approximately 68,000 customers in four states, announced that it is mailing a letter to shareholders in connection with the Companys 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on July 27, 2016. Gas Natural shareholders of record at the close of business on May 27, 2016 are entitled to vote at the 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The Gas Natural Board of Directors strongly recommends that shareholders vote on the GREEN proxy card FOR all six of Gas Naturals qualified and experienced director nominees: Michael B. Bender, James P. Carney, Richard K. Greaves, Robert B. Johnston, Gregory J. Osborne and Michael R. Winter. This letter and other materials regarding the Boards recommendation for the 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders can be found at http://proxy.egas.net. The full text of the letter follows: June 30, 2016 Dear Fellow Shareholder, Your vote is especially important at this years annual meeting of shareholders. Richard M. Osborne, who was fired by your board as chairman and CEO of Gas Natural on May 1, 2014, has nominated a slate of six candidates (including himself) for election as directors. After his removal, Richard Osborne retaliated by filing numerous lawsuits against Gas Natural and our officers and directors (our full proxy statement contains additional information regarding these pending cases) and is illegally stealing customers from our Ohio utilities. Now, after selling almost all of his remaining Gas Natural stock he and his other nominees own less than 0.1% of our stock he is seeking to regain control of your board. You may have received a proxy statement, white proxy card and other solicitation materials from the self-proclaimed Committee to Re-Energize Gas Natural which was formed by Richard Osborne. Richard Osborne would have you believe that he ran your company successfully. In fact, he left the company in a regulatory and litigation quagmire. Your current board was left holding the bag and is addressing the numerous problems he left behind. Richard Osbornes Regulatory Fiasco Richard Osborne has criticized us for amounts the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) required our Ohio utilities to refund to customers in 2015. What he did not tell you is those amounts relate to a period when he was chairman and CEO of Gas Natural. Richard Osborne claims that he and one of his nominees, Darryl L. Knight, have extensive experience in the utility industry. We agree they do have experience in mismanaging our utilities. While Richard Osborne was at the helm of your company and Darryl Knight was the president of our North Carolina utility, our utilities struggled with regulatory issues that continue to negatively impact our financial results, including: The PUCO issued an order in November 2013 initiating a management audit of our Ohio utilities due to significant concerns over related party transactions. Richard Osborne makes much of the fact that this management audit occurred after he was removed. But keep in mind that the audit was ordered in 2013 when he was CEO of Gas Natural and the Ohio utilities. The 2013 order states that during Richard Osbornes tenure: [T]he evidence shows that there is a severe organizational dysfunction within the companies and between the regulated companies and their non-regulated affiliates. [S]enior management lacked basic utility experience; and [The PUCOs audit recommendation] comes following a series of extremely frustrating audits of the companies, rife with self-dealing that demonstrates a remarkable lack of control. Richard Osborne tries to make light of these unprecedented statements by one of our regulators, showing that he still doesnt understand what it takes to successfully operate a regulated utility in the long term. Although the management audit was ordered by the PUCO while Richard Osborne was CEO, the costs continued. After he was removed, we spent more than $300,000 on the management audit alone. We are still paying for Richard Osbornes past mistakes and that has hurt your companys performance subsequent to his dismissal. The PUCO ordered refunds to customers in excess of $2.0 million for payments our Ohio utilities made to companies controlled by Richard Osborne. Richard Osborne claims he is looking out for your interests. But he didnt return the disallowed amounts. No, instead Richard Osborne pocketed the money and you were the one who paid for it. Richard Osborne benefitted from transactions with Gas Natural at your expense. Since his removal, we have reduced related party transactions significantly and made improvements to address the concerns voiced by the PUCO and regulators in other jurisdictions. Our management team has worked hard to reestablish regulatory relations and repair the damage caused by Richard Osborne. Two of these accomplishments include: Resolution of the PUCO management audit in June 2016 by a commission approved stipulation between the PUCO staff and our Ohio utilities. In the order adopting the stipulation, the PUCO stated: The findings of Rehmann [the investigative auditor] were noteworthy in part, because all of the issues identified with respect to the operations and management of the companies, took place during the time Richard Osborne was CEO and chairman of the board of directors of the companies. Once again Richard Osborne tries to make light of this by claiming we are quoting a stipulation we wrote. But this isnt from the stipulation and it isnt our quote; its directly from a PUCO order. It appears Richard Osborne is trying to mislead you, but perhaps its possible he truly doesnt understand the difference between the stipulation and a PUCO order. Resolution of the transportation contract issues between our Ohio utilities and one of Richard Osbornes pipeline companies. Richard Osborne would have you believe that all of our agreements with him are at arms-length and fair, and that we could choose other arrangements if his agreements arent beneficial. But again, he is telling you only half the story. We acquired one of our Ohio utilities, Orwell Natural Gas Company (Orwell), from Richard Osborne in 2010. Before he sold Orwell to us, Richard Osborne had the utility sign a natural gas transportation agreement with another company he owns, Orwell-Trumbull Pipeline Co. (OTP). With Richard Osborne on both sides, this was hardly an arms-length agreement. We were then saddled with this fifteen-year agreement when we acquired Orwell. The agreement did not allow us to use other pipelines in OTPs service area but did allow OTP to interrupt service to our customers. In March 2015, OTP threatened to shut off service to some of our customers, forcing us to petition the PUCO for an order requiring OTP to maintain service. On June 15, 2016, the PUCO eliminated the sole source provision of the agreement so that we are now free to use another company to transport natural gas to our customers. Furthermore, in reviewing Richard Osbornes actions, the PUCO concluded that there are: Serious issues concerning the pipeline companies that Richard Osborne owns and controls, including Cobra and OTP, and ordered an investigative audit of all of the pipeline companies owned or controlled by Richard Osborne and their affiliates Could this order sweep our Ohio utilities back into another PUCO audit if Richard Osborne regains control of Gas Natural, requiring significant cost and management attention? We dont know, but we are confident that returning him to power would threaten to destroy the strides we have made to rehabilitate your company since his ouster. Richard Osborne Has Embroiled Your Company in Litigation That Has Cost You Millions Richard Osborne and his companies have been involved in no fewer than 140 lawsuits in the last five years alone. He and his companies have been subject to more than a dozen judgments to the tune of nearly $100 million. In the wake of the PUCOs November 2013 order, Gas Natural was sued by its shareholders five times relating to Richard Osbornes treatment of the Ohio utilities and related party payments he received. This draining litigation is ongoing and has cost us nearly $1.5 million. When your board took action to reduce related party transactions with Richard Osborne and investigate his management practices, he refused to cooperate and attempted to interfere with the investigation. Its unfortunate that Richard Osbornes precarious financial situation brought him to this point, but the board had no choice but to remove him as chairman and CEO. He responded to his removal by physically assaulting a director and suing the company, its officers, directors and agents nine times. The company has been forced to defend itself, costing you more than $1.5 million. Although Richard Osborne is critical of our management teams employment agreements, he fails to mention that he demanded three-times his salary ($1.0 million) in severance when he was removed for, in part, failing to follow board directives. Or that he is currently suing the company to obtain that payment. No, Richard Osborne hasnt told you any of these things. Is Richard Osborne the man you trust to lead your company? Richard Osborne and Darryl Knight Are Stealing Our Customers and Jeopardizing the Safety of the Public He doesnt mention it in his proxy materials, but in addition to the lawsuits he has brought against your company, Richard Osborne started a business that competes with our utilities and has sabotaged service to our customers. Richard Osborne and Darryl Knight are officers of Ohio Rural Natural Gas Co-Op (Ohio Rural), which began competing with one of our Ohio utilities in 2015. Last November, Ohio Rural and Richard Osborne severed gas lines owned by our Ohio utility, terminating service to approximately 50 independently owned businesses we serve, and replaced our meters with their own. Once again, we were forced to file an action with the PUCO to protect our customers. If Richard Osborne and Darryl Knight join your board, whose interests will they serve, yours, or Ohio Rurals? And this wasnt an isolated event. In September 2014, employees of Cobra Pipeline Co., another Ohio pipeline company owned by Richard Osborne, tampered with one of our regulator stations by inserting a solid metal plate in the pipeline, cutting off the flow of gas to some of our customers. We immediately called the police and lodged a complaint with the PUCO, who issued a cease and desist order against Cobra on the same day. In its order, the PUCO noted that interrupting the flow of gas could result in an explosive concentration of gas and could have resulted in an incident that would have seriously jeopardized public safety. At Gas Natural, the safety of the public and our customers is our number one priority. Unfortunately, we are unable to say the same for Richard Osborne. We believe Richard Osborne and his nominees lack the experience to effectively lead, manage and govern public utilities, and his history demonstrates his disregard for our regulators, lack of understanding of utility operations, and furtherance of his own self-serving interests. Vote the GREEN Proxy Card to Protect the Future of Your Company! Richard Osborne claims that your current board isnt qualified. As you can see from the proxy materials we sent you, our board members are highly experienced in terms of leadership, financial, legal and regulatory matters. Richard Osbornes claims to the contrary are patently false and just another desperate attempt on his part to regain control of your company. Your current board is the change that Gas Natural has needed in a time of significant regulatory scrutiny. We have led the transformation of Gas Natural to an inflection point, and have the knowledge and expertise to drive our strategy forward to deliver superior value. Your vote matters. We strongly recommend that you elect our highly qualified leaders by voting FOR all of your boards experienced nominees Michael B. Bender, James P. Carney, Richard K. Greaves, Robert B. Johnston, Gregory J. Osborne and Michael R. Winter on the GREEN proxy card enclosed and returning it in the prepaid envelope provided for your convenience. On behalf of your board of directors, thank you for your continued support. Sincerely, Michael R. Winter Chairman of the Board YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT, NO MATTER HOW MANY OR FEW SHARES YOU OWN Please follow the easy instructions on the enclosed GREEN proxy card. If you have any questions or need assistance in voting your shares, please contact: Proxy Solicitor: D.F. King & Co., Inc. 48 Wall Street New York, NY 10005 Banks and brokers call collect: (212) 269-5550 All others call toll free: (800) 821-8780 About Gas Natural Inc. Gas Natural Inc., a holding company, distributes and sells natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. It distributes approximately 21 billion cubic feet of natural gas to roughly 68,000 customers through regulated utilities operating in Montana, Ohio, Maine, and North Carolina. The Companys other operations include interstate pipeline, natural gas production, and natural gas marketing. The Company's Montana public utility was originally incorporated in 1909. Its strategy for growth is to expand throughput in its markets, while looking for acquisitions that are either adjacent to its existing utilities or in under-served markets. Further information is available on the companys website at www.egas.net. Important Shareholder Information Gas Natural will hold its 2016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders on July 27, 2016. The Company has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) and mailed to its shareholders a definitive proxy statement together with a GREEN proxy card in connection with the 2016 Annual Meeting. The definitive proxy statement contains important information about the Company, the 2016 Annual Meeting, and related matters. COMPANY SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT, THE ACCOMPANYING GREEN PROXY CARD, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE AS THESE DOCUMENTS CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. The Company and its directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of the Company in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2016 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the Companys directors and executive officers is contained in the Companys annual report on Form 10-K/A filed with the SEC on April 27, 2016, and definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on June 21, 2016. The proxy statement and other relevant solicitation materials (when they become available), and any and all documents filed by the Company with the SEC, may be obtained by investors and security holders free of charge at the SECs web site at www.sec.gov. In addition, the Companys filings with the SEC, including the proxy statement and other relevant solicitation materials (when they become available), may be obtained, without charge, from Gas Natural Investor Relations at (716) 843-3821. Such materials are also available at http://proxy.egas.net. Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements The Company is including the following cautionary statement in this release to make applicable and to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Gas Natural Inc. Forward-looking statements are all statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, those that are identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "predicts," "believes" and similar expressions. Such statements are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed. Factors that may affect forward-looking statements and the Company's business generally include, but are not limited to the Companys ability to consummate the corporate reorganization and debt refinancing on terms that are acceptable to the Company, or at all; the Company's ability to successfully integrate the operations of the companies it has acquired and consummate additional acquisitions; the Company's continued ability to make or increase dividend payments; the Company's ability to implement its business plan, grow earnings and improve returns on investment; fluctuating energy commodity prices; the possibility that regulators may not permit the Company to pass through all of its increased costs to its customers; changes in the utility regulatory environment; wholesale and retail competition; the Company's ability to satisfy its debt obligations, including compliance with financial covenants; weather conditions; litigation risks; and various other matters, many of which are beyond the Company's control; the risk factors and cautionary statements made in the Company's public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and other factors that the Company is currently unable to identify or quantify, but may exist in the future. Gas Natural Inc. expressly undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in Gas Natural Inc.'s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based. Marty Jackson recalled his long journey to getting his rights restored and he wanted to do his part to help anyone else wishing to do the same. Jackson even gave out his own personal cellphone number to more than 40 people who attended an informational session on Gov. Terry McAuliffes restoration of ex-offenders rights Wednesday evening at the Calvary Baptist Church on Holbrook Street. The executive order was signed into effect on April 22, restoring civil rights to more than 200,000 people in Virginia. But General Assembly Republicans have challenged the governors decision in court, and the case soon will be heard. Gov. McAuliffe has been committed to second chances and restoring civil rights for our returning citizens from day one, Secretary of the Commonwealth Kelly Thomasson said Wednesday. The session held at Calvary Baptist Church was a chance for the community to understand what the executive order on restoring rights actually meant. Ex-offenders who had their rights restored still have to register to vote by October if they want to participate in the presidential election in November. For people who may have been afraid of the commonwealth restoring rights, Thomasson said that the majority of these [ex-offenders] were non-violent felons. Pittsylvania County Community Action Executive Director Everlena Ross said this was a golden opportunity for anyone with a criminal past to become a full participating member of the community. Four of those ex-offenders stood up and were applauded when asked to be recognized for having their rights restored. Jackson said it gave him a heartwarming feeling to be able to pay his taxes and his tithes. Having rights is one thing, but having the ability to financially provide for oneself is another. Pittsylvania County Community Action Case Manager Barry Mayo announced that the Jobs and Resources Fair for ex-offenders will be held in October. He said that he and many others had been striving for a long time to restore rights for those who had completed their sentence, including probation. It matters to me that Im a member of this community, Jackson said. Telvista hopes to hire 150 new full-time workers by the end of the year, said the companys site director. The addition to its workforce will result in a total of more than 650 jobs at the customer service providers location at 119 Cane Creek Blvd. in Airside Industrial Park. The announcement was made Thursday morning at the Regional Center for Advanced Technology and Training in Danville. Officials from the city and Pittsylvania County, representatives for state and Congressional leaders and members of the public attended. Mayor Sherman Saunders told attendees the new jobs will make a positive impact on the lives of our citizens. One-hundred-and-fifty jobs in Danville is a tremendous boost to our regions economy and continues to build on the tremendous growth weve seen at Telvista since its location in our city, Saunders said in a prepared statement. Mary Rae Carter, special advisor for rural partnerships for Gov. Terry McAuliffe, also spoke at the event. The company is adding a new customer and a new program to support sales and service of a popular vehicle diagnostic tool and road side assistance services, said Telvista Site Director Lisa Wallace. The 150 added employees will handle calls relating to the product, Wallace said. Were very committed to this area and we love the people in the community, Wallace said during an interview after the announcement. Dallas-based Telvista provides customer engagement for companies through contact management, IT services, social media services, interactive voice response and others. Since launching the Danville operation in 2005, the Danville community has provided the right mix of labor availability, quality and cost structure, Wallace said in a prepared statement. She declined to reveal the jobs pay, but said they will provide competitive wages and monthly pay-for-performance bonuses. Telvista is seeking applicants with at least one year of customer service/sales experience for the positions. Wallace noted that there will be bilingual opportunities available for potential job seekers, according to a news release. The company hopes to fill the positions by December. Telvista has thrived in Danville since opening its facility in April 2005, and we celebrate the addition of 150 new jobs in a region that continues to rebound economically, McAuliffe said in a statement. As we work to build a new Virginia economy, it is essential that we create 21st century jobs that provide diverse and sustainable employment opportunities and ensure that we are not over-reliant on federal spending. We thank Telvista for its commitment to the Commonwealth. This is the second expansion that Telvista has announced in the past 18 months, and we are thrilled when our existing businesses are successful and participating in the growth we are seeing across Virginia. Applications are being accepted for the new positions at Telvista and are available online at www.telvista.com. VANCOUVER, Jun 29, 2016 - Africo Resources Limited ("Africo") (TSX:ARL) announces that its previously announced plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") between Camrose Resources Limited ("Camrose") and Africo has been approved by the shareholders of Africo at its annual and special meeting held today ("Meeting").At the Meeting, over 99.99% of the votes cast by all Africo shareholders, and 99.99% of votes cast by Africo shareholders other than Camrose, whose votes were required to be excluded for the purposes of "minority approval" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions, were voted in favour of the Arrangement.Subject to completion of certain closing conditions, including a final order of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List), Africo expects the Arrangement to be completed on or about July 5, 2016.Under the Arrangement, Camrose will acquire all of the Common Shares that Camrose does not already own for cash consideration of $1.00 per share. Holders of Africo's Common Shares and Options may also receive an additional aggregate amount of USD $7.5 million if certain transactions, in respect of the Africo's main Kalukundi project, a development stage copper-cobalt deposit located in the Katanga Copperbelt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are completed within 14 months following the closing of the Plan of Arrangement with Camrose. The terms and conditions of this contingent payment are set out in an information circular of Africo dated May 31, 2016. The additional amount, if paid, would be equal to approximately USD $0.27 per share. However, there can be no assurance that the additional payment will be made because this is contingent.At the Meeting the five nominees listed in Africo's management proxy circular were also elected as directors.Forward-looking statements: This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws that are intended to be covered by the safe harbours created by those laws, including statements that use forward-looking terminology such as "anticipated", "may", "will", "expect", "could", "should", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "potential", or the negative thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements regarding the completion of the proposed transaction and other statements that are not historical facts. While such forward-looking statements are expressed by Africo, as stated in this release, in good faith and believed by Africo to have a reasonable basis, they are subject to important risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, approval of applicable governmental authorities, required Africo security holder approval and necessary Court approvals, the satisfaction or waiver of certain other conditions contemplated by the Arrangement Agreement, and changes in applicable laws or regulations, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by the forward-looking statements. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, the proposed transaction could be modified, restructured or not be completed, and the results or events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, given that they involve risks and uncertainties. Africo is not affirming or adopting any statements made by any other person in respect of the proposed transaction and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws, or to comment on expectations of, or statements made by any other person in respect of the proposed transaction. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued forward-looking statement constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement. Reliance on forward-looking statements is at investors' own risk.The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Chris Theodoropoulos, Chairman+1 (604) 646-3225Africo Resources Ltd.Larry Okada, Chief Financial Officer+1 (604) 646-3225 CZN-TSX CZICF-OTCQB VANCOUVER, June 29, 2016 /CNW/ - Canadian Zinc Corporation (TSX: CZN; OTCQB: CZICF) (the "Company" or "Canadian Zinc") is pleased to report that it has filed a final short form prospectus (the "Prospectus") in each of the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and New Brunswick, and obtained a receipt from the British Columbia Securities Commission. The Prospectus qualifies the distribution of 32,000,000 common shares of the Company (the "Common Shares") at a price of C$0.25 per Common Share and 4,000,000 flow-through common shares of the Company (the "Flow-Through Shares") at a price of C$0.25 per Flow-Through Share, for aggregate gross proceeds of C$9,000,000 (the "Offering"). The Company has entered into an amended and restated underwriting agreement with Paradigm Capital Inc., Canaccord Genuity Corp. and Dundee Securities Ltd. (collectively, the "Underwriters") to reflect an increase in the size of its previously announced public offering from C$8,000,000 to C$9,000,000. As previously announced, the Company has granted the Underwriters an over-allotment option to purchase up to 4,800,000 common shares in any combination of Common Shares and Flow-Through Shares for C$0.25 per share, exercisable, in whole or in part, at any time up to 30 days after the closing date of the Offering for additional gross proceeds of up to C$1,200,000. The net proceeds from the sale of Common Shares will be used to fund feasibility and development programs for the Prairie Creek Project, exploration programs at both the Prairie Creek Project and the Company's Newfoundland properties, as well as for general working capital purposes. The gross proceeds from the sale of Flow-Through Shares will be used to incur eligible Canadian Exploration Expenses and flow-through mining expenditures, as defined under the Income Tax Act (Canada), that will be renounced in favour of the purchasers with an effective date of no later than December 31, 2016. The funds are intended to be used to fund exploration programs on the Prairie Creek Project and the Company's Newfoundland properties. The Offering is scheduled to close on or about July 7, 2016. The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. The Common Shares and Flow-Through Shares sold pursuant to the Offering will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. About Canadian Zinc Canadian Zinc is a TSX-listed exploration and development company trading under the symbol "CZN". The Company's key project is the 100%-owned Prairie Creek Project, a fully permitted, advanced-staged zinc-lead-silver property, located in the Northwest Territories. Canadian Zinc also owns an extensive land package in central Newfoundland. The Prairie Creek Mine contains a partially developed infrastructure including a 1,000 tonne per day flotation mill, workshops, accommodations, and support facilities. The Company holds a Type "A" Water Licence which, along with previously issued permits and licences, permits the operation of a mine at Prairie Creek. A positive updated Preliminary Feasibility Study was completed in March 2016. The Company also continues the Environmental Assessment process as part of its application to upgrade the access road into the Prairie Creek Mine for use on an all season basis. Canadian Zinc also owns an extensive land package in central Newfoundland that it is exploring for copper-lead-zinc-silver-gold deposits. These include the South Tally Pond project (Lemarchant deposit); Tulks South project (Boomerang-Domino and Tulks East deposits) and Long Lake project (Long Lake deposit). Cautionary Statement Forward-Looking Information: Certain disclosure in this release, including statements regarding the completion and terms of the proposed Offering and the use of proceeds therefrom constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. In making the forward-looking statements in this release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable, including that the Company is able to satisfy conditions of the Offering and obtain the required regulatory approvals of the Offering. However, the forward-looking statements in this release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and risks include, among others, inability to satisfy conditions of the Offering and delays in obtaining or inability to obtain required regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. SOURCE Canadian Zinc Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCwire) - Alix Resources Corp. (Alix or the Company) (AIX-TSX:V) (37NFRANKFURT) is pleased to announce the assay results of the recent round of sampling at the Electra Project in Sonora, Mexico, where values as high as 246.0 parts per million (ppm) lithium (Li) confirmed a target sedimentary assemblage with the potential of hosting economic lithium-bearing, clay-rich horizons. The Electra lithium project is contiguous to Baconora/REMs Buenavista Lithium project. Mike England, president of Alix, stated: "These recent anomalous and enriched lithium values from clay-rich sedimentary sequences on our Tecolote concession are encouraging and bear similarities to Bacanora/REMs early stage findings at Buenavista. Once we receive the results from the next round of sampling we will likely proceed with a drilling program designed to further explore the lithium potential of this property. We are obviously in the right location and the mineralization to date found on the property is very promising to our exploration team. Our drill campaign will likely include a series of shallow drill holes in key geological targets such as the sedimentary assemblage and also in some alluvium-covered areas. The objective is to discover lithium-rich clay layers similar to that of the Bacanora/REM Buenavista deposit." Previous work carried out last December on the Electra lithium project led to the discovery of a lithium-bearing, clay-rich showing on the company's northern Tecolote concession adjoining the Bacanora Minerals Ltd. (BCN-TSX:V) and Rare Earths Minerals PLC (REM-LON))'s Buenavista concessions (PR 2016-01-06). Reverse circulation drilling by Bacanora/REM's on the Buenavista concession has discovered a clay-rich layers (the Buenavista Li deposit) in a sedimentary sequence over an area of 6 by 1.25 km (BCN PR, 2014-11-03). Alix geologists, along with a contracted geologist with previous working experience on Bacanora/REMs Buenavista concession, revisited the showing discovered in December on the Tecolote concession, which returned a peak value of 211.0 ppm Li. Geological mapping and prospecting identified a distinct, sedimentary package containing clay-rich layers. This target area has been designated the Central Basin. In total, 42 samples were collected from claystones, sandstones and siltstones exposed in the target sedimentary sequence, yielding and average Li value of 167 ppm and a peak concentration of 272 ppm, which is considered very anomalous. The sampling program identified two target areas located in the Central Basin and underlain by the target sedimentary sequence. The first target, the eastern area, is approximately 1,100 m long by 250 to 400 m wide. The second target area is located east of the Barisuqe river and 700 m SW of the first target and measures roughly 400 by 150 m. The zone in between the targets has also been mapped and is covered by extensive, thin alluvial sediments that may be underlain by the same prospective sedimentary sequence. Both target areas in the Central Basin are likely to be expanded given the relatively flat-lying nature of the sedimentary beds and extensive, thin alluvial cover. Additional sampling and geological mapping has been completed and assays are pending. On Bacanora/REM's Buenavista concession, the lithium-bearing clay-rich layers were little exposed and required drilling to define and understand the sedimentary stratigraphy. Management has also determined to not proceed with the previously announced (see PR Jan 11, 2016) acquisition of the Gran 2 property. The technical contents of this release were approved by Michel Boily, PhD, P.Geo a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. The properties have not been the subject of a National Instrument 43-101 report. About Alix Resources Alix Resources is a junior mining exploration company focused on seeking and acquiring world class lithium projects globally. Alix continues to evaluate suitable prospects that fit the mandate of the Company. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Michael England Michael England, President, CEO, Director FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Telephone: 1-604-683-3995 Toll Free: 1-888-945-4770 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view this press release as a PDF file, click onto the following link:public://news_release_pdf/alix06302016.pdfSource: Alix Resources Corp. (TSX Venture:AIX) http://www.alixresources.com/ Maximum News Dissemination by FSCwire. http://www.fscwire.com Copyright 2016 Filing Services Canada Inc. TORONTO, ONTARIO and MUNICH, GERMANY--(Marketwired - Jun 30, 2016) - Tantalex Resources Corp. (CSE:TTX)(FRANKFURT:1T0) ("TANTALEX" or the "Corporation"), is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, United Materials Congo SARL ("UNITED MATERIALS" or "UMC"), located in the Katanga province of Democratic Republic of Congo ("DRC"), has signed a definitive agreement with a second local mining cooperative (refer to June 8, 2016 press release), namely La Cooperative Miniere LUBI ("CML"), whereby CML will become a sub-contractor to UMC, and as such, will supply UMC exclusively to the entirety of the Tantalum concentrate it produces. Dave GAGNON, Chief Executive Officer of TANTALEX, explains: "We are extremely happy to not only have signed this second agreement for Tantalum, but especially happy that it be with CML. In terms of finding a partner to work with in Katanga, LUBI has a longstanding reputation and extensive experience mining Tantalum. It is one of the largest cooperatives in the region, employing several thousand employees. Not only does the agreement increase our tantalum pentoxide (Ta205), but it speaks volumes about how we are also perceived in the region. We have very quickly established trust, a credible reputation, and are quickly becoming the preferred company to partner with." About TANTALEX Resources Corporation TANTALEX is a mining company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and distribution of Tantalum and other high-tech mineral properties in Africa. The Company is listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (symbol: TTX) and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (symbol: 1T0). Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward looking statements. Although TANTALEX believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, TANTALEX disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward looking statements or otherwise. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed this news release and does not accept responsibility for its adequacy or accuracy. For further information, please contacts Investor relations: ir@tantalex.ca Or visit us at: WWW.TANTALEX.CA VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - June 30, 2016) - NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Silver Bull Resources Inc. (TSX:SVB)(OTCQB:SVBL) ("Silver Bull" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has completed the third and final tranche of the non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") of units (the "Units") of the Company announced on May 12, 2016. Under the third tranche of the Private Placement, Silver Bull issued 3,670,000 Units at a price of CDN$0.13 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of CDN$477,100. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company and one Common Share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one common share at a price of CDN$0.16 until the date that is 12 months following closing of the Private Placement. If the closing price of the common shares of the Company on the OTCQB Venture Marketplace is US$0.18 or higher for five consecutive trading days, then the Warrant will expire 30 trading days from such fifth consecutive day. Under the first and second tranche of the Private Placement, which closed May 19, 2016 and June 3, 2016, Silver Bull issued a total of 7,692,310 Units for aggregate gross proceeds of CDN$1,000,000. The net proceeds of the Private Placement will be used by Silver Bull for general working capital purposes. The Company has agreed to pay a finder's fee of CDN$7,280 in connection with certain subscriptions in the third tranche. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement are subject to a hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws, which will expire four months plus one day from the date of closing of the Private Placement, and U.S. securities laws, which will expire six months from the date of the closing of the Private Placement. The securities issued under the Private Placement have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of Silver Bull's securities in the United States. About Silver Bull: Silver Bull is a mineral exploration company whose shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and trade on the OTCQB in the United States, and is based out of Vancouver, Canada. The "Sierra Mojada" project is located 150 kilometers north of the city of Torreon in Coahuila, Mexico, and is highly prospective for silver and zinc. On behalf of the Board of Directors Tim Barry, CPAusIMM Chief Executive Officer, President and Director Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release are "forward-looking" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the expected use of proceeds from the Private Placement. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon the current belief, opinions and expectations of management that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and other contingencies. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, market prices, metal prices, availability of capital and financing, general economic, market or business conditions, as well as other risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2015, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / TheNewswire / June 30, 2016 - Nevada Clean Magnesium Inc.. (TSXV: NVM; Frankfurt-M1V; OTC Pink Sheets: MLYFF) (The "Company") today announced the results from the Company's 2016 Annual General Meeting (AGM) which was held on June 24th, 2016 in Vancouver, BC. Shareholders voted in favour of all matters brought before them at the meeting, including the re-election of Edward Lee, James Sever, Steve Thorlakson, Robert Brown, Annie Storey, Lothar Maruhn and Jeff Wilson to the Board of Directors. In addition, Dale Matheson Carr-Hill Labonte LLP was re-appointed as auditors of the Company, and the Company's stock option plan was approved by the shareholders. The Board of Directors have confirmed James Sever as the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer, Edward Lee as its Chief Executive Officer, and Lisa Maxwell as the Corporate Secretary. Steve Thorlakson has been appointed as the Company's new Interim Chief Financial Officer, in place of the prior CFO, Annie Storey. The Board also confirmed director appointments to the Audit, Compensation and Corporate Governance Committees. About Steve Thorlakson Steve has extensive experience in the construction project management and logistics industry, as well as extensive financial and business management expertise, having worked more than three decades within the financial services industry. He began his professional career working at Toronto Dominion Bank, rising to Branch Manager and Senior Assistant Manager of Commercial Credit. From 1980 until 2006, Stephen was a self-employed chartered financial planner in Fort St. John, British Columbia, a city for which he served as Mayor from 1990 through 2005 and Alderman from 1986 through 1990. As founder and President of the Canadian consulting firm Thorlakson Management Ltd., he has provided guidance, direction and hands-on management of major industrial and business development projects for clients that have included Canadian Silica Industries, LaPrairie Works, Inc. and Eh-Cho Dene Enterprises. He also served as General Manager of Surerus Pipeline, Inc., where he was responsible for policy research, development and implementation, as well as project estimating and project management. About Nevada Clean Magnesium, Inc. Nevada Clean Magnesium is focused on becoming a major U.S. producer and distributor of primary, high grade, low cost magnesium metal extracted from its 100% owned Tami-Mosi property located in North Central Nevada. Based on the Company's NI 43-101 Preliminary Economic Assessment Report published in September 2011 and amended in July 2014, the Tami-Mosi Project has an inferred resource of 412 million tonnes with an average grade of 12.3% Mg for a contained metal content of 111 billion pounds of magnesium using a 12% cut-off grade contained within a high purity dolomite block. For more information, please visit www.nevadacmi.com. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To Reach Nevada Clean Magnesium Please Contact: Edward Lee, CEO at (604) 210-9862 Forward looking statement Statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and Statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements about becoming a major U.S. producer and distributor of primary, high grade, low cost magnesium metal, and that our Project has an inferred resource of 412 million tonnes.ties. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements about building of a pilot furnace, timing f completion, expected results and benefits of the pilot furnace, that the results will allow us to finalize our full sca Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors, including that results may not be as we expect, the Company's dolomite reserves may not be mined because of technical, regulatory, financing or other obstacles, the market price for magnesium may make our resources uneconomic, and other risks associated with being a mineral exploration and development company. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results differed from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For additional information please visit our website at http://www.nevadacmi.com or view our profile at http://www.sedar.com. You may also follow us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. Copyright (c) 2016 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. In a surprise shake up of Brisbane's food scene, Gerard's Bistro head chef Ben Williamson has been appointed to oversee the menu of Fortitude Valley venue The Apo. Braden White, former head chef of the bar and restaurant, has left due to "creative differences" with management says Apo co-owner Johnny Moubarak. "It took us a while to get our head around it not working with Braden," says Moubarak, who also counts Gerard's Bistro, Hatch & Co and Laruche in the portfolio he owns with his brothers Elie and Mel. "He's a great guy, but our directions were completely opposite. We wish him all the best." The Apo opened in January and attracted mixed reviews from critics and consumers. White, former executive chef of Ricky's River Bar and Restaurant in Noosa, and has a "modern progressive" cooking style influenced by chefs like Noma's Rene Redzepi. Components of White's Apo dishes included fish bone dressing, whipped stracciatella, fermented muntries, bull's blood and sea parsley. Even curds AND whey got a run. Braden White's sorrel nitrogen parfait at The Apo. Photo: Bradley Kanaris "We just parted ways, it wasn't anything bad," says White. "The [Moubarak] boys have a vision for The Apo, which is more targeted towards the drinking crowd with bar snacks." "They want the beverages to be the standout, I was just like, 'OK. Cool. Maybe you just need to get a junior guy in there or someone to oversee it'." Moubarak denies The Apo wants to be more beverage focused. Advertisement "The Apo won't work as a drinks focused venue. The drinks are important but food needs to be a major focus, too. We want customers throughout the week, not just visiting for drinks on Friday and Saturday night. We wouldn't get Benny Williamson from Gerard's involved if food wasn't important." The Apo, Fortitude Valley. The bar and restaurant is housed in a former apothecaries hall. Photo: Bradley Kanaris The one-hatted Gerard's Bistro was awarded Vittoria Coffee Restaurant of the Year in the Brisbane Times 2015 Good Food Guide. Williamson will continue his involvement at Gerard's Bistro and Gerard's Bar in addition to his new role overseeing The Apo menu. Williamson's Apo menu starts July 12. Moubarak says to expect a modern take on Lebanese food with a French thread. "It will be fun and full of flavour. Very different from Gerard's Bistro which is more modern Australian with Middle Eastern elements". White is unsure what's next for him in the restaurant world. "I'm going to take an extended holiday for a little while and weigh up a few options," he says. "I've got a few guys in the industry who have given me a call to see what I'm up to, but I want spend a bit of time with my family first." Address 913 Whitehorse Rd Box Hill, VIC 3128 View map Opening hours Mon-Tue 7am-7pm, Wed-Fri 7am-10pm, Sat 8am-10pm, Sun 7am-4pm Features Accepts bookings, Bar, Family friendly, Gluten-free options, Licensed Prices Moderate (mains $20-$40) Seats 100 Payments eftpos, AMEX, Cash, Visa, Mastercard Phone 03 9077 7455 Conjure your image of Box Hill for a moment: the steamy fleet of yum cha trolleys, a glossy brace of lacquered ducks and discount vitamins by the kilo. It's the scene in your head, even if you've never been. This eastern culture bowl holds mythical status as Melbourne's heartland for tea shops, Korean barbecue supplies and, depending who you ask, Melbourne's best pho. What you may notpicture is espresso martinis and Kentucky fried tofu banh mi. You certainly don't expect them in the foyer of the ATO. But here it is at Penny Drop, the all-day eatery on Whitehorse Road proving there are now three certainties in life: death, taxes and the gentrification of Box Hill. Furious fish: salt and pepper snapper with its own crisped spine Photo: Paul Jeffers Across from the station where Metlink inspectors are making it rain tickets with grim enthusiasm, Penny Drop rises like a Deco vision in blondwood, pink and greys all sweeping curves, crisp lines and dripping pendant lights. It's like David Rockwell's Oscars set crashed into a Temple and Webster. Just swap stools and plate glass windows for a little velvet and you'd have a '40s Broadway dream. This is Steven Liu and Mary Lai's follow up to their successful coffee pop-up and it's as big a learning curve jumping to a 100-seat cafe, restaurant and bar as you can imagine. To that end, when you're offered an espresso martini at happy hour, take it. It's where they play to their strengths. Tim Webb shakes a strong game while the wine and beer list steers more Big Name Craft and Marlborough Savvy Bs over small producer gear. Son in law eggs - hold the rice crackers Photo: Paul Jeffers On plate it's what you might call an adventure. Taste oysters. Smash spicy wings. Hell, get some orecchiette. Preferably not in one go. In some cases, not at all. Ridged fingers of okra fried off with nigella and coriander seeds mostly demonstrate why they're usually pickled or braised. Orecchiette with broccoli, basil and ricotta salata tastes like your lazy-night-in-sweatpants pesto pasta. Surprisingly, it's the Home Economics reboot of an iceberg salad in condensed milk dressing that's the dark horse, the fried shallots and crunchy radishes hitting a salty, sweet and fresh balance rarely nailed elsewhere. You're probably filing the rest under disco Asian. They're certainly not shy on sugar. Cubes of pork hock swim in a masterstock glaze like porcine candy, reminiscent of the deep fried, sugary hunks from Chin Chin's famous salad minus the salad. Son-in-law eggs those crisp-shelled, sunny-centred shirt-wreckers are dressed with an onion caramel, chilli threads and microherbs. Take away the plain and chewy "red curry rice cakes" and it's one of the better plates. Pork hock in onion caramel Photo: Paul Jeffers A little too often you search for the oomph. Kentucky fried tofu in our banh mi is lacking Louisville love, paired with a daikon shred that tastes more wet than pickled. Skip, and refocus on the whole snapper, fillets removed and deep-fried along with the whole carcass in a salt and pepper dusting so they zing sweet, salty and bicarby, the fins and bones crisped up like a giant, animal-shaped chip. Was the papaya salad dressed at all? It's hard to tell when a second measure of nam jim also fails to give zip. Penny Drop is beautiful. But how great would it be if the dishes were as carefully executed as the room? If staff, as well as being friendly, focused a little less on chatting and more on delivering drinks? I've heard great things about breakfast. But I'm here because Box Hill, for all its charms, has little on the high-kicking dining scene at night.This little penny needs buffing before it fills that slot. The lowdown Gentrification hits Box Hill in the form of espresso martinis and Kentucky fried tofu banh mi Vibe: Disco Asian in a blushing Deco dream Pro Tip: Top up your myki ticket inspectors love Box Hill Go-to Dish: Salt and pepper snapper's fried spine is like a giant fishy chip http://www.thepennydrop.com.au/ SHARE Bobby D. Lacy Am I my brother's keeper? I was thinking about that the other day, as we approach Independence Day and as the Blackshear Ex-Students Reunion is nigh, because, for one, the reunion is about family. More so, it is about families hosting family members and friends from all across this vast country, as well as from around the world, coming home again for a special occasion. That used to signal crowding the house to accommodate the visitors, if at all possible. That was what we did. We welcomed our visitors from afar, realizing that it was up to us to make them comfortable during their stay. That was back in the day, though, because things are very different now. Everything is so political, even our celebrations. Today, people are so separated in so many ways. It is difficult to bring us together, even during the big event itself, especially now that the demographics have changed. Imagine Blackshear we have gone from young and spry graduating classes from this magnificent institution that we all cherished so dearly, to a very mature group, as some of us choose to call ourselves. The school has gone from a prominent high school to a junior high school, eventually becoming an elementary school and now a day care center. Seems like the older we get, the younger it gets. Over the years, Blackshear also went from all-Negro (the term then) at the high school level to a predominantly mixed day care center. That is just a way of saying everybody is there, all ethnicities, any and all who choose to use the center. It signals change, dramatic perhaps, but accepted over the years. And that is the way of the world today, even America. We must remember that America once was black and white in its scope, and has now become a volatile melting pot, consisting of a multitude of ethnicities, from many nations around the world, who bring with them their languages, cultures, religions and dignity. They have come to this nation with positive intentions and legal motives, morally ethical ideals and hopeful aspirations of leaving financial gain for their children. That has been America since its discovery, almost. That is America today. Well, it was the other day. That was when, yes, we had political parties, but those parties, both individually and collectively, had sense. Most politicians did anyway. I know that because politicians back then voted in favor of their constituents and according to their needs. Such is not the case today. Now it is all about and according to party. And that all started, nationally anyway, with the all-out and pledged attempt by party opponents to make the president a one-term "goner." Many of us perceived such an attempt to destroy this particular president to be racially motivated, although that notion went nowhere because those who might really have thought that way convinced the masses through their controlled news media that it was not so. And, eventually, we moved on. We had to. Am I my brother's keeper? That comes back to me, because it seems that, although biblical in its foundation, we, as a nation partially founded upon religious freedom, no longer honor it as a natural practice, not politically nor socially. And some of us even seem to have arrived at the idea that we are keepers of more brothers than we need, so we should immediately cease admitting them. Now who has been chosen to decide who comes in is uncertain, but that same controlled media does the promoting. Maybe there is something to be said about self-proclaimed privileged groups, and subsequently, maybe we should make sure that we first treat others as we, a powerful country, would want to be treated. America was established as a nation on such principles, yet our practice of such has definitely waned. Am I my brother's keeper? Our president thought so, and as a result, the Blackshear Reunion brings us together for the final time under his administration, still counting our blessings and looking back over the road behind, enjoying where we are as a people and ever positive about the future. As a black man makes global decisions from the Oval Office, we, as a once oppressed people, shudder to think about the long road behind us that brought us here. We understand that President Obama could not change the fact that we have always been the last hired and the first fired, but our recent gains have been considerable along the way. After all, the sun shines on us all, and lately it has been sending us rays of continued hope, with present expectation of upward mobility in the future despite where we were when he took office. Am I my brother's keeper? I wish I had total control of that during this Independence Day weekend, when more people are predicted to travel over the highways than ever before, because I would make sure that all my brothers and sisters would be safe, with special focus on the Blackshear Reunion participants. I also would insist that instead of separating ourselves politically during this celebration, that we would come together and show the world what it is to be united, under God. I do not have that power, but I will pray for all and allow the Almighty to handle the rest. I just welcome my Blackshear Reunion brothers and their families to our fair city, as we try to keep you amused during your visit here. Happy Fourth of July, all! Bobby D. Lacy lives in San Angelo. SHARE Maybe it was those college courses on the history of Europe that soured me on the idea of a united continent. How could a conglomeration of nation states noted for invading each other, pillaging and warring against each other form a union? How could a continent with different languages, cultures and money become a united states of Europe modeled after the USA? Unity is not union. As the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher observed: "European unity has been tried before, and the outcome was far from happy." The euro, which I also mocked at the time it was introduced on Jan. 1, 1999, replaced the French franc (the Swiss wisely kept their franc), the German mark, the Dutch guilder and most other circulating currencies. Thatcher again: "The European single currency is bound to fail, economically, politically and indeed socially." How prescient she was. A majority of British voters literally want their country back. That sentiment was repeated in interviews with average blokes on the BBC and Sky. They are tired of being dictated to by an unelected and unaccountable elite in Brussels. They are tired of the wave of immigrants who do not assimilate and seem uninterested in becoming fully British. And they are tired of being called names for wishing to preserve what was handed down to them by previous generations who fought and died so their descendants might continue to enjoy the British way of life. Even Queen Elizabeth II, who normally remains outwardly neutral on most political issues, appeared to step in on this one. According to Breitbart London reporter Liam Deacon, there are reports that the queen "thinks European courts that protect Islamist hate preachers 'denigrate' Britain and has demanded that her dinner guests 'Give me three good reasons' to remain inside the European Union." Already people are comparing former London Mayor Boris Johnson, who led the exit campaign and wants to succeed departing Prime Minister David Cameron, to Donald Trump. Trump had the good fortune and perfect timing to be in Scotland when the voting results were announced. His news conference was carried live throughout Europe and on U.S. cable news networks. Like so many of the British, Trump supporters are sick of the elites dictating to them. They, too, want their country back and are also weary of the names they are called for wishing to preserve what was handed down to them at the price of blood, sweat and tears (to borrow from Winston Churchill). Scottish separatists vow to hold another vote because their leader, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, wants to remain in the EU. But the die has been cast. I suspect the EU will eventually fall apart and the nations that currently comprise it could return to their previous borders and currencies, but it is to be hoped not their previous feuds. A status quo ante would be good news for Vladimir Putin, who has viewed a united Europe as an impediment to his plan to restore "greater Russia." The main lesson for Britain and the U.S. is that the people, properly informed and engaged, don't have to put up with elitist big government whose leaders think they can run people's lives and who callously "import" immigrants from nations that do not have a democratic history, much less practice religious pluralism. We can take back our countries and make them what the founders intended them to be. Britain is on the way to doing so, though the left will not give up easily, if at all. The other shoe may be about to drop in the U.S. this November. Cal Thomas writes for the Tribune Content Agency. Contact him at tcaeditors@tribpub.com. SHARE By Suzanne Carter Hahn "Hamilton" opened on Broadway just in time to celebrate July 4, 2015. The musical tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, who rocketed into the 21st century. He fits right in. "How does a bastard orphan, son of a whore and a Scotsman ... dropped in a forgotten spot in the Caribbean by Providence, impoverished, in squalor ... grow up to be a hero and a scholar?" And in one run-on sentence, we get the story of Hamilton's childhood and learn that he was our original immigrant. What a way to study history! The bad news: Tickets start at $559 each up in the nosebleed sections. The best seats as much as $1,350. The good news? You can visit YouTube and see most of it. No charge. Time on your hands? The play's based on a book you can buy for $15, "Hamilton," by Ron Chernow. I learned about our youngest Founding Father in my ninth-grade history class and forgot most of it right after the test. But well before Trump/Clinton/Sanders issues reached fever-pitch, the value of Hamilton stock was rising. Jon Meacham, my favorite historian and author of "American Gospel," is known for dropping arcane historical references into otherwise normal conversations. By last fall, he was alluding to Shay's Rebellion and the Federalist Papers. Today, Hamilton is a hot topic for many in charge of telling us ordinary folks what to think about the 2016 presidential race as it spirals out of control. "The ten dollar Founding Father without a father ... got a lot farther by working a lot harder by being a lot smarter by being a self-starter ... so they placed him charge of a trading charter." At every stage of the emerging nation, Hamilton was all in. He organized militias at Lexington and Concord and was chief staff aide to Gen. George Washington. But as we should know by now, it's harder to build a nation than to win a war. Hamilton shaped the Articles of Confederation. Wartime had created an urgent need for the fledgling country to agree on a written document, but progress was slowed by those opposed to strong central authority. The Articles finally were ratified in 1781, the states remained sovereign and independent, with Congress serving as the last resort on appeal of disputes. But controversial issues remained, and led to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. Hamilton made clear his distrust of democracy. He believed all communities divide into two classes: the aristocracy and all the rest. "The voice of the people has been said to be the voice of God ... it is not true in fact." He goes on to say that they (the second group) "seldom judge or determine right. Give therefore to the first class a distinct and permanent share in the government. Nothing else can check the imprudence of democracy." "Treasury Secretary, Washington's the President ... every American experiment sets a precedent ... not so fast someone came along to resist ... pissed him off and so we got a two-party system." The 'someone who came along' would be Thomas Jefferson thanks, Tom. Hamilton promoted a strong federal government, while Thomas Jefferson pushed for stronger states' rights. Hamilton became Washington's secretary of the treasury and Jefferson his secretary of state. It must have made for lively Cabinet meetings. But no one ever claimed that building or maintaining a republic would be easy. In the presidential election year of 1800, Jefferson and Aaron Burr were tied in the Electoral College. And despite their different philosophies, Hamilton supported Jefferson. Burr lost. Well, yeah, it's becoming far more clear why the Founding Fathers are a favorite topic in this election year. When Burr ran for governor of New York in 1804, Hamilton crusaded against him on the grounds that Burr was unprincipled. Never mind that Hamilton was embroiled in the new nation's first political sex scandal unless you count Ben Franklin's exploits in Paris or Jefferson's relationship with Sally Hemings. To make matters worse, Hamilton was blackmailed and accused of using government funds to pay demands. He actually wrote a book in which he admitted to an affair but denied inappropriate use of public money. Through it all, Hamilton continued to hammer Burr. Enraged by Hamilton's constant attacks, Burr challenged him to a duel. They designated a site across the Hudson River from Manhattan, and agreed to meet at dawn on July 11, 1804. There are differing accounts of who fired first. Suffice to say, two bullets flew and Burr walked away. Hamilton was mortally wounded, and died the next day. (Beware the beat of rap is highly contagious.) In the play's final act, Washington poses a question meant for Hamilton, now gone presumably to that special place reserved for deceased politicians. "Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?" Evidently no one. "Every other Founding Father's story gets told ... every other Founding Father gets to grow old." So it is that old soldiers never die, they just fade away. Until ... they're back! Hamilton's story ends now but a new one has begun ... there's a moral in here somewhere ... nothing new beneath the sun ... my advice for Donald and for Hillary and the Bern ... please choose another weapon ... 'cause only Donald's got a gun. Suzanne Carter Hahn lives in San Angelo. SHARE By Cathy Norris When James and Junell, our son and daughter-in-law, told us they were relocating from Denver to Pocatello, Idaho, our first thought was that is 900 miles further north. A year later they are very happy and doing well. As for us, we've already been up there twice. We take our time and have seen new places and things to do. They had sent us a book about "The Harvey Girls" by Lesley Poling-Kemps and on the latest trip we went through Belen, New Mexico, to visit a Harvey Museum. At age 15, Fred Harvey came to America from England. Among his many jobs, dishwasher was the beginning of his restaurant career. During this time the railroads were laying tracks and trains were heading west. The trains did not have dining cars and when they stopped to take on water, passengers would get off in search of food. But Harvey noticed the passengers, because of limited time, were often being left behind. He approached Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad with the idea of leasing dining space in the depot and opening restaurants. General Manager W.B. Strong, a supporter of the Harvey Restaurants, directed Santa Fe, in addition to the restaurant, to build reading rooms, clubhouses and a hospital association for Santa Fe employees. In 1876 he opened the first lunch counter in the Topeka, Kansas, Santa Fe Depot. By the late 1880s, passengers had a clean and efficient place to eat every 100 miles along the Santa Fe Route. Meals were served on china and men had to wear coats. He first hired men waiters but said they were as "wild as the West." However, men were part of the kitchen staff. He realized at that time in our history, the only jobs for respectable females were as domestics or teachers. How could he find women who had at least an eighth-grade education, good moral character, good manners and be neat and articulate? He placed newspaper ads across the nation. He paid a good wage, as much as $17.50 a month with free room and board and uniforms. In return for employment, the waitresses would agree to a six-month contract, agree not to marry and abide by company rules during employment. They lived in dormitories above the restaurants supervised by a "dorm mom." Mothers encouraged their daughters to apply for the jobs. At the peak, there were 84 Harvey Restaurants. He hired well known chefs and many of the restaurants became social centers of the town. The townspeople came in for meals, wedding receptions and reunions and business meetings were held in the restaurants. The museum docent told us the passengers would be in and out in 30 minutes. To accomplish that, certain procedures had been developed. The restaurant knew the time of the train arrival; food had been prepared and the girl seating the passengers would ask what they wanted to drink. She would arrange the coffee cup handle facing a certain direction on the saucer indicating the drink wanted. The waitress served the drinks and took the food orders. The docent also told us about a big, tough-looking man who came into the museum and was looking at a picture of several women. She walked over to him and saw tears in his eyes. He pointed to one of the women and said, "This is my grandmother." He handed her something and said it was his grandmother's and he would like to donate it to the museum. The grandmother had married a local rancher and the family was still in the area. According to the contract, the Harvey Girls agreed not to marry. Dating was not allowed between employees of the Harvey Restaurant. As time went by, rules were relaxed and many of the women married railroad employees, local businessmen and ranchers and they could continue to work in the restaurant. One woman, a widow, lived at home with her children and could work at the restaurant. Others helped their families. Since they had no food and room expenses, some saved their money to travel: Yes, they had vacation time. Unfortunately, some of the girls broke rules and were fired. Harvey died in 1901, at which time his sons took over. When both sons had died in the 1930s, the company left Harvey control but continued to operate. In 1968 the Harvey Company ceased to exist, ending another era of the American West. The following was placed by two uniforms: "During a time when tavern and saloon girls wore provocative clothing to entice customers, the Harvey Girl uniform was completely opposite.'' "The uniform consisted of a black dress, no more than eight inches from the floor, a starched white apron, black shoes, black hose, and a plain white ribbon for the hair. Makeup and chewing gum were prohibited while on duty." Of course, as time went by, the uniforms changed, but remained appropriate to the times. Harvey was looking for women of "good moral character." I don't think this started out as an altruistic endeavor, but I think it is safe to say Harvey and the Harvey Girls proved to be a good partnership. Cathy Norris lives in San Angelo. SHARE Advocates dismiss those who dont speak language By Christian Schneider We've all heard former Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan's admonition that "Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts." Yet the public debate about guns in America takes Moynihan's warning to the next level: Each side not only has its own facts, it has its own language. For instance, take the rush after the recent Orlando shootings to ban "assault" or "military-style" weapons like the AR-15 rifle. Gun control advocates immediately jumped to regulate sales of "automatic weapons" and "assault rifles" like the AR-15, which they deem too deadly for one individual to need. Scary stories about the AR-15, which Hillary Clinton called "weapons of war" that can fire hundreds of rounds per minute, began circulating, further clouding the story. For starters, an AR-15 wasn't used in the Orlando shooting. Instead, the shooter used a Sig Sauer MCX semi-automatic rifle and a 9mm handgun. Perhaps this is a distinction without much difference the Sig Sauer is similar to an AR-15 but it does demonstrate the rush to vilify the AR-15 by those seeking to regulate its sale. But more important, neither the Sig Sauer nor the AR-15 is an "assault rifle" under any applicable definition. They are both semi-automatic weapons, meaning every time the user pulls the trigger, the gun fires one bullet just like any handgun or hunting rifle. Sure, the AR-15 looks more like something out of the "Die Hard" movies, but it doesn't shoot any faster than many smaller guns. Actual "assault rifles" widely defined as automatic machine-gun style weapons, are essentially banned in America. (There are also roughly 8 million AR-15-style rifles in circulation in America right now, so best of luck confiscating those.) Hillary Clinton has called for reinstatement of an "assault weapons" ban signed by her husband but it's almost certain that ban would not have barred the Orlando shooter from owning his weapon. Under the assault weapons ban signed by Bill Clinton in 1994 and which lasted through 2004, AR-15s were only prohibited if they featured multiple military-style upgrades, such as folding stocks and pistol grips, which made them easier to conceal and control. But if the gun wasn't tricked out, it was completely legal to own. Further, a 2004 Department of Justice report found that the assault weapons ban caused no discernible change in gun deaths in America, and didn't keep people from getting access to guns that were just as powerful as the AR-15. As Sean Davis at The Federalist has pointed out, between 2003 the last full year of the assault weapons ban and 2014, the number of murders committed with rifles dropped by nearly one-third. "Aha," say gun control advocates but what about the "terror gap" loophole that allows people on terror watch lists to purchase guns? Well, the Orlando shooter wasn't on any such list, even though he had been investigated and his cases dropped due to lack of evidence. In fact, such a "loophole" actually is due process as protected by the U.S. Constitution. Law enforcement shouldn't be able to take away one's constitutional rights simply because one is placed on a list imagine President Donald Trump unilaterally fabricating a list of American citizens he would simply deport. Or creating a list of journalists who were no longer granted freedom of speech because they didn't support him. Constitutional rights aren't "loopholes." Of course, pro-gun advocates want to keep firearms out of the hands of terrorists; they simply want the government to ask a judge first. This is why the ACLU has opposed the opportunistic plan congressional Democrats fashioned to politically cash in on the tragedy. The panic after a terrorist shooting is typically the worst time to adjudicate U.S. gun laws; misinformation and demagoguery almost always drown out reason. Following a vote last week, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, tweeted that Senate Republicans had "decided to sell weapons to ISIS." This is particularly rich, given that Warren's cohorts on the left spent much of the last decade accusing George W. Bush of "stealing" Americans' rights. Now that Warren wants to be vice president, she's willing to hand over her due process rights in a gift bag. The inability of both sides of the gun debate to even come to agreement on what certain words mean makes meaningful discussion impossible. It's as if a French tourist is arguing with a Korean traffic cop using an interpreter who only understands German. And until anti-gun forces learn to speak firearm, they'll only strengthen the resolve of those who are fluent. Christian Schneider is a Milwaukee (Wisconsin) Journal Sentinel columnist and blogger. SHARE Extremist NRA leadership spreads fear and danger By Firmin DeBrabander Even before the horrific attack in Orlando earlier this month, life in 21st century America had become intolerably, pervasively fearful. Our mad proliferation of guns, and the obscene loopholes that allow dangerous people to access them freely, are the most consistent engines of terror in our society today. There is hardly any public space in America that has not been marred by gun violence. Going about our daily business, we can now imagine active shooters emerging anywhere: a church, a mall, a movie theater, a workplace. In many states, people have to be wary of innocent interactions, lest they offend someone who is armed, and the gun owner feels threatened and justified in "standing his ground." All parents live with the daily stress of fearing for their children in this environment; the National Rifle Association prescribes armed guards at their schools, though it is painfully obvious this will do nothing to deter committed killers, as the gun lobby has made sure such people can easily obtain firepower. Rule of law, a bedrock principle of democracy, is gravely endangered in the NRA's America. The key feature of civil society, according to English philosopher John Locke who inspired our Founding Fathers is that citizens defer legal judgment to those who govern in our name and have superior resources; this is especially so for the most definitive judgment of all: death. Instead, we firmly, inexplicably trend the opposite direction, toward the chaos of a state of nature where no one's fate is secure. Here, criminals, terrorists and malcontents are empowered by proliferating guns and loose gun laws, as are the people who would take it upon themselves to shoot the so-called "bad guys," too often choosing the wrong enemy (Trayvon Martin comes to mind). This is an open invitation to vigilantism and all it entails. In the aftermath of Orlando, some gay rights groups called on members of their community to arm themselves to deal with threats, potential, imagined or real. The NRA likes to say that guns are the solution to our fear; when we are armed, we need no longer fear. That is hardly the case: An armed society is rife with fear and the ardent gun rights advocates are the most fearful of them all. Which is bad news because, among the irrational emotions that wrack the human soul and provoke the greatest sins, fear is high on the list. NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre is prime evidence of the chronic paranoia at work. His speeches are veritable litanies of things we must fear, and his creativity is impressive. In a major speech from 2014, La Pierre offered a lengthy tirade on electromagnetic pulses "triggered by a massive solar storm, or set off by a detonation of a nuclear device," destroying the power grid and plunging the nation into a primitive state where "Third World diseases would re-emerge." He foresees a desperate scramble for survival in the chaos to come, and guns will give some the edge. But who wants to live in that world? Apparently, ardent gun rights advocates do and they have nearly gotten the world they warn of. The NRA invited us to join its apocalyptic vision, and we have thus far complied. We have tolerated its radical agenda. Polls indicate that most Americans disapprove of NRA policies, like permitless carry and open carry, and their obstruction of universal background checks. But voters in most states have not pressed on, urging lawmakers to resist and reject the gun lobby's outrageous demands. The good news in all this is, we are hardly trying when it comes to gun violence. We are starting from a very low bar. Inexplicably, we don't bar terror suspects from gun sales (the Senate failed to pass this reform last week). We don't subject all gun buyers to background checks. We don't put all people with mental illness in the background check system some states hardly register this at all. Ten states allow permitless carry, whereby gun owners can exercise concealed carry without a permit and without required safety training. Then we despair over the amount of gun violence in this country, and the NRA tells us the mass slaughter could not be avoided bad guys will get their hands on guns and mete out destruction. That is simply not true. None of this is inevitable. It is a choice, one we make. In armed America, we live in terror, but the means to diminish our absurd levels of gun violence are ready at hand when voters across the country are finally willing to channel their democratic energies and press their lawmakers. Gun violence will not be eradicated; no one has ever promised that. But it can steadily be made more rare. This is a front in the war on terror we can win. Firmin DeBrabander wrote this for the Baltimore Sun. SHARE Some sacrifice by combating ISIL; rest of us go shopping By Robert Dillon The Pentagon announced in March that U.S. troops engaged in operations against ISIS are eligible for a new medal, the Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal. This is for service in Iraq or Syria, as well as the airspace or contiguous waters of both countries. The start date for the medal was June 15, 2014, with an end date "to be prescribed by the secretary of defense." According to the Defense Department, some 11,000 troops already are eligible for the medal. Up to 5,000 U.S. military personnel are currently serving in Iraq. Remember "no boots on the ground?" Today we are fighting a limited war against ISIS. It appears to me we fought a similar war a few years aback. The common refrain is that the U.S. armed forces are at war, not the nation as a whole. Who can deny that truth? Still going shopping at the mall is not a demonstration of patriotism. Until our leaders inform citizens about the seriousness of this genuine threat, this nation will remain at risk. We know President Obama won't admit we have a big problem. He also doesn't want the American people to know the truth about the 100,000 ISIS members who have organized since he's been in office. They are organized in all parts of the world, including America. This news you also won't see publicized by the media. We have at least 108 American war veterans who have joined the fight against ISIS. These are not mercenary fighters; they pay their own way and stay until their funds run out. All have combat experience, either Army or Marines. They hook up with Kurdish groups in Iraq or Syria. Most of them are in their 20s and 30s. Some say the reason they return is to send Desh an Arabic term for ISIS that the radical Islamic groups finds offensive, considered unclean or unholy to hell. Others had seen the slaughtering, raping and torturing of women and children before and want to stop it before it reaches America. It is hard for me to understand the thinking of Obama or Hillary Clinton. They don't seem to want to fight these jihadists on a full scale. Is it because of their religious beliefs? What if these same people were made up of no religious beliefs and were murdering, beheading and abusing women and children. Would they then be willing to try to eliminate them? Robert Dillon lives in San Angelo. D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson, who built a national reputation for shepherding a troubled school district through rapid improvements, announced Wednesday that she will step down from her post in the fall.Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D), who said she did not ask Henderson to resign, immediately tapped John Davis, the school systems chief of schools, to serve as interim chancellor beginning Oct. 1. A national search for a permanent chancellor will begin later this year, but a replacement likely wont start until the 2016-2017 school year concludes.Henderson was preceded by Michelle Rhee, who drew attention and scrutiny for her combative approach to improving the citys schools. In a combined 10 years leading the citys schools between them, Rhee and Hendersons experiment in school reform became a national bellwether for urban schools.Bowser said that the citys school-reform efforts will not slow under the next chancellor.While we have made progress, no one should think that we are stopping, Bowser said. We want to send a strong signal that were putting a foot even further down on the gas when it comes to public school reform.Henderson had long said she planned to stay at the helm of the city school system until at least 2017. But in an interview Wednesday, she said that leaving in September a slow time for the school system, after the new school year begins feels right.She has led the school system for more than five years, far longer than the average three-year tenure of school superintendents in big cities. And she said leading the nearly 50,000-student system has been strenuous; she plans to relax and spend time with her family for at least six months before considering other offers in the education field. Two major health insurance companies, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and Health Net, will drop Affordable Care Act plans next year in Maricopa and Pinal counties, forcing tens of thousands of consumers to switch plans next year.Stung by financial losses on marketplace plans in 2014 and 2015, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona has filed documents with the Arizona Department of Insurance to discontinue such plans in Maricopa and Pinal counties. About 44,000 Blue Cross Blue Shield customers will need to find new sources of health coverage for 2017.Similarly, state filings show Health Net will drop Affordable Care Act plans in Maricopa and Pinal counties next year, eliminating coverage for about 14,000 current Health Net customers. It intends to sell only mid-level silver and gold marketplace plans in Pima County next year, according to the insurer's filings.The moves to scale back coverage in Arizona's most populous region comes after two other large health insurers, UnitedHealthcare and Humana, decided to exit the state's marketplace altogether in 2017.What emerges is an Affordable Care Act marketplace with far fewer options for consumers in 2017. The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected an appeal from Wisconsin of a federal appeals court ruling that struck down the state's law placing restrictions on abortion providers. But state lawmakers pledged new abortion-related bills during the next legislative session.The justices' decision to refuse to hear appeals from Wisconsin and Mississippi came a day after the nation's highest court struck down a Texas law with similar restrictions -- requiring abortion doctors to have admitting privileges to nearby hospitals.State Attorney General Brad Schimel said the decision was "not surprising" given the court's Monday ruling. Schimel said the earlier ruling from the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals striking down Wisconsin's admitting privileges law stands.Schimel, who filed an amicus brief in the Texas case in support of the restrictions, said Monday's ruling "is disappointing and undermines the respect due to policymakers."Walker signed Wisconsin's law on July 5, 2013, and required providers to have privileges in place three days later. Privileges were to be at hospitals within 30 miles of clinics.Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin and Affiliated Medical Services sued the state, arguing that the requirement would force the shutdown of the AMS clinic in Milwaukee because its doctors could not get admitting privileges. That amounted to restricting access to abortions, they argued."We are thrilled that Wisconsin's unconstitutional admitting privileges law has been permanently blocked," said Tanya Atkinson, executive director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin. "It was an attempt to put obstacles in the way of women seeking safe, legal abortion care. We are pleased the Supreme Court recognized the true intention behind this law."But the decision hasn't deterred anti-abortion advocates and like-minded lawmakers in Wisconsin.After the court's decision was released, Walker on Tuesday tweeted, "We're disappointed an activist court overturned common sense standards on abortion providers, (and) we will cont(inue) to protect sanctity of life."Heather Weininger, executive director of Wisconsin Right to Life, said despite the court's rejection of the state's appeal, the anti-abortion group remains "undeterred in our efforts to protect women and unborn children from the abortion industry.""We will continue to empower women with hope and the information they need before making the life-and-death decision of abortion," she said in a statement.Rep. Jesse Kremer, R-Kewaskum, said he plans to propose a bill next legislative session requiring doctors to inform patients of the ability to reverse medication-induced abortions. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists urged its members in 2015 to pressure Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey to veto a similar bill on the grounds that the medical advice is unscientific and could be dangerous.And Rep. Andre Jacque, R-De Pere, who authored the bill that included the abortion restrictions that Tuesday's decision invalidated, said he plans to introduce again legislation that bans research using fetal tissue, which was unsuccessful last Legislative session.Myranda Tanck, spokeswoman for Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, said in an email that Fitzgerald fully expects to see bills related to abortion next legislative session.Wisconsin currently requires that women wait 24 hours before having an abortion, and that women undergo an ultrasound prior to an abortion. The law also bans abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy. By the time the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor decided to tackle the issue of mental health in jails, the topic had become a source of frustration throughout state government. Agencies from the Department of Human Services to the Office of Justice Programs had been asking the auditor for some time to look more deeply into the problem.The auditors findings, while scathing, werent necessarily surprising. About two-thirds of inmates who had been deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial were sitting in jail while the courts decided what to do next, in violation of state law. There was a general lack of mental health services in the states jail system. The audit also found no reliable data on how many inmates were suffering from mental illness, as well as little compliance with a state law requiring that a mentally ill prisoner have a discharge plan before leaving jail.It was definitely one of our most recommendation-heavy audits, says Joel Alter, evaluation coordinator for the legislative auditor. Its an issue that all states are grappling with. The one overarching challenge, he says, is, How do we get people whose primary issue is mental health out of our jail and prison system?While the audit states that Minnesota doesnt have reliable data on how many people with mental illness are in its justice system, surveys suggest that the number is about one-third of the total jail population. Thats roughly the same percentage as in New York City and Cook County, Ill. The national average is about 20 percent for jails and 15 percent for prisons, according to the nonprofit Treatment Advocacy Center.As in other states, Alter points to deinstitutionalization -- the closing down of state-run psychiatric hospitals -- as the reason why jail became Minnesotas de facto solution for housing the mentally ill. At its peak in the late 1950s, the state had some 16,000 beds in those facilities; now there are just a few hundred. While at one time we had too much institutionalization, he says, now we have something dramatically different that is still not effective.Kathy Sheran, chairwoman of the Minnesota Senates Health and Human Services Committee, points to what hasnt happened in the course of deinstitutionalization. We havent built up community-based mental health services like we were supposed to, and we havent created job-building programs for this population, she says. Instead, weve been doing these patchwork fixes, and its created enormous problems.Initiatives to build up mental health services are steps in the right direction, says Alter. But he adds that jails cant just punt this problem to the health-care system. They do need to provide a minimum standard of care.John Monahan, a University of Virginia professor who is an expert on mental health law, points to New York Mayor Bill de Blasios $130 million action plan on behavioral health and the criminal justice system as a major step in the right direction. Over the course of four years, the initiative aims to train officers on how to respond to someone with a mental illness, implement physical and mental health screenings before arraignment, and expand the number of people who can participate in a supervised release program.De Blasios approach involves a huge investment, even for a city as big as New York, and theres no guarantee that it will succeed. But the effort reflects the arguments of advocates that getting the justice system and the public health system to work in concert is part of the solution. Many people celebrated the end of Prohibition in 1933. Gifford Pinchot was not one of them.In fact, Pinchot, the governor of Pennsylvania, was so upset that he vowed to discourage the purchase of alcoholic beverages by making it as inconvenient and expensive as possible. His efforts were largely successful, with the establishment of a Liquor Control Board that had some of the nations strictest rules about alcohol sales. But this month, Pennsylvania passed a law that will, among other things, allow wine in grocery stores.Its the latest example of states loosening decades-old legal restrictions on the sale of alcohol. Washington state attracted national attention with a complete privatization of the liquor business in 2012. Since then, Colorado and Tennessee have both moved to allow grocery stores to sell wine and full-strength beer, in 2016 and 2014 respectively. More than 40 states plus Washington, D.C., sell some form of alcohol in general stores.At the heart of this deregulation is the gradual union of business interests, consumer preferences and the publics mindset. Large businesses have overwhelmingly replaced mom-and-pop stores and are frustrated by having to follow state-by-state alcohol regulations. Meanwhile consumers accustomed to the convenience of one-stop shops and technology are demanding more accessibility. Then there's the change in attitudes: Alcohol is no longer perceived as the villain it once was and is considered by many just like any other consumer good. In addition, consumption of alcohol has slightly risen from 58 percent in 1939 to 64 percent in 2011.Around the country, theres much more focus on the commercial interests [and] those that consume alcohol than there is on the larger public health and safety issues, said Steven Schmidt, an analyst at the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA).Yet shifts in attitude dont translate to swift legislative actions. In Pennsylvania and Colorado, for example, consumer-choice advocates only prevailed after years of fighting -- and even then had to make concessions.What we see is the culmination of many years of debate, proposed bills and negotiations, said Heather Morton, an analyst that tracks the issue for the National Conference of State Legislatures who tracks the issue. Both sides are extremely passionate about this issue, and they both have strong arguments.Proponents claim that deregulation benefits consumers by offering them more options and convenience while also invigorating the business environment and bringing in government revenue in the form of sales taxes. Opponents, on the other hand, worry about the economic well-being of employees who work at state-run alcohol stores and independent business owners. A small group of researchers and analysts, often not directly involved in the debate, would add that public health problems -- such as excessive consumption and retail theft -- might be more prevalent when alcohol becomes more accessible.In Pennsylvania, state House Speaker Mike Turzai sponsored the new law while acknowledging that it falls short of his ultimate goal: total privatization and abolition of the Liquor Control Board. Most Pennsylvanians support the measure, according to Jay Ostrich, a spokesman for Turzai, and have been voting with their wallets by driving to neighboring states to buy alcohol. Recent polling also suggests that a slight majority favor privatization.It became clear that an incremental change toward privatization was within the realm of possibility, said Ostrich. [The bill is] the first step of what will be several steps to get people the true privatization they have always wanted.The Colorado law is also the product of compromise. The bills sponsor, state Sen. Pat Steadman, argues that its not inconvenient to get alcohol in Colorado, and that letting big supermarkets sell alcohol would be unfair to small liquor stores. But faced with an aggressive campaign for a ballot measure that would immediately allow the sale of wine and liquor in grocery stores, he felt that the transition toward alcohol in grocery stores was inevitable. So he resorted to softening the blow by stretching out the process and only allowing grocers to gradually obtain selling privileges over the span of 20 years.Still, some businesses dont want to wait that long. Walmart, Target, King Soopers and Safeway are among the contributors to Your Choice Colorado (YCC), the group spearheading the ballot campaign. YCC said it will continue to fight for its original demands, either through a legal challenge or taking them to the ballot.The battle wont end in Colorado. According to the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association, at least five states -- Alabama, Florida, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas -- are or have considered increasing alcohol access this year. In Oklahoma, the legislature has passed measures to allow more alcohol in grocery stores, pending voter approval in the November general election.In Kansas, bills to let counties regulate alcohol sales and let grocery stores sell beer already died, which advocates say is bad for business. Jessica Lucas, a spokesperson for Uncork Kansas, said Kansans travel easily and frequently to other states that have more liberal alcohol laws. If the state refuses to update its alcohol policy to match that of neighboring states, Kansas will be an island in the middle of progress. In the afternoon, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC and Mrs Kaye de Jersey returned to Queensland and the Honourable Justice Hugh Fraser ceased duty as Acting Governor of Queensland. Government and technology are far apart as cultures. Government is deliberate. A wise leader does not subject his roads, power grid and economy to whimsy. He plans everything. Technology is experimental. Technology is Leonardo da Vinci taking a half-dozen naps each day. Technology is making things work now and worrying about the consequences later. Government creates lists, policies and protocols to ensure the bathrooms are stocked with the correct number and type of shampoo, towels and soap. Technology doesnt like taking showers. Technology is Steve Jobs wearing the same thing every day and only eating fruit. Technology wears an unruly beard. Government wears a tie thats approved by a policy that was written by a committee following six years of research.But, alongside society, governments conservative ways are relenting. Once fearful of inviting criticism, a nudge from the economy has left government willing to ask the public for help. And most importantly, the popularization of technology means the public can help and people are empowered by digital tools. The result is that civic tech the place where government interests intersect with community-minded activists who are ready to donate their time and talents is the public sectors fastest-moving innovation inlet.People are collaborating across institutional boundaries. The markets and organizations that support civic tech are growing wiser and better organized. Government is opening its doors and converting opponents into allies. Technology itself is exciting there are scores of new inventions each day but the civic tech movement, in its immaturity, leaves untouched even more territory, more potential to realize its simple directive of making the nations cities, counties and states better places to live.. A software engineer who interned at the Center for Democracy and Technology, led development of the Sunlight Foundations Influence Explorer, lobbied for federal contracting and campaign finance reform, engineered for Facebook and then returned to civic tech because the private sector wasnt challenging enough, Phelps-Goodman is the kind of talent government complains it cant afford. And yet, he shares governments mission.As I became a more competent engineer, I started to see engineers as more interchangeable, he explained. Engineering problems became easier and less interesting. The hard problems are societal problems. These are the real head scratchers. How do you improve transparency, how do you improve education? How do you improve housing policy, how do you improve governance itself? These are really hard problems. They involve a broader scope than just engineering, but have potentially a bigger payoff.Phelps-Goodmans current project is Seattle in Progress, a website that uses Google Maps to plot the citys land-use application data. The website feeds on data the city has published since 2007, but because the information was poorly organized and difficult to navigate, it was infrequently accessed. Seattle in Progress gets about 15,000 hits monthly and is receiving praise from the public, the real-estate industry and the city itself. It seems a perfect fit: Heres someone smart and driven who wants to work in the public sphere. But tapping that talent is not so simple.[click_to_tweet]#Civictech is the public sectors fastest-moving innovation inlet [/click_to_tweet]So much of civic technology is strongly related to e-government-type things and that means partnering with the government directly. And thats still very difficult, Phelps-Goodman said. Id say we still have almost no models for how to do that. If somebody comes up with a great idea at a hackathon and the city likes it and the civic tech person wants to work with the city, its really unclear how to go about that. The existing procurement process is not at all built around one or a small team of people with an idea. If you want to just sell your idea to the city, theres no real model for the government purchasing outright technology it didnt build. Even if you want to give your technology to the city, theres no real model for the city even accepting something for free.Phelps-Goodman conceded that Seattles attitude toward civic tech has improved the last couple years. An executive order signed in February created a thorough open data policy that arrived alongside a showcase of local civic tech talent. When bombarded by requests for every video it had on record, the Seattle Police Department brought the requester in as a consultant. Several civic technologists interviewed for this article cited Seattle CTO Michael Mattmiller as an advocate of their efforts, and Candace Faber, whose title actually is civic technology advocate, as a harbinger of increased cooperation between government and the public.The civic tech space is moving fast because there are forces pushing it forward from every sector, Faber said. Philanthropic efforts like Bloombergs What Works Cities are helping local governments spot smart investments. Academic research from members of consortiums like the MetroLab Network targets every government business. New federal programs like 18F and the U.S. Digital Service (USDS) provide thought leadership, and companies like Google and Microsoft lead civic engagement teams that partner with cities on project and policy. And most importantly, the public is giving government some breathing room.The conversation is evolving very rapidly past this transparency agenda that used to drive open data, the notion that we should be able to see what government is doing, Faber said. I still think thats true, but we run the risk of getting locked into a relationship that is just about accountability and not about matching that accountability with ability to do the job well. And those things can sometimes work against each other. If you have a government that is afraid to take risks, then the space for innovation shrinks.General interest in civic tech is growing, said Seth Vincent, founder of Open Seattle, an organization that runs hackathons and other events to bring civic hackers together. When he founded the group in 2013, it was just a few strangers showing up, but now its not uncommon for 50 people to participate on a weeknight. Vincent said he feels supported by Faber and Mattmiller, but doesnt know if the city is serious about supporting their efforts in a way that will allow their projects to mature. Open Seattle is Vincents side project, and it scrapes by thanks to the few spare hours that he and others can afford to donate each week.We dont have a path of a civic hacker working on a project to someone at the city of Seattle using it, and part of that has just been were all volunteers, Vincent said. We have a lot of companies support the events that we hold, but what we dont have yet is some way to fund all of the projects people are working on, or even a couple of the projects people are working on, to get them to the point where theyre truly useful.The city is committed to nurturing its civic hacker community, said Mattmiller, and thats evident from its recent efforts, but even a private company would have a hard time buying someones idea on spec. And to make things more difficult, many of the problems being solved by civic tech arent sustainable businesses. Thats why those problems fell to government in the first place.Though the gov tech market is growing parent company, e.Republic, cites $1 billion in capital investment in the space much of the sector is made up of small startups whose leaders struggle to identify a clear path forward. For every successful civic tech startup, there are 1,000 developers building weekend projects who understand their efforts to be novelties, not budding empires.But the markets immaturity is matched by its enthusiasm and optimism. With dozens of new companies launched each year, the field is growing at an annual rate of 23 percent, according to a 2013 study by the Knight Foundation. Many projects centered around open government missions thrive, like those fueled by Socrata and SeeClickFix, but the best-funded and fastest-growing segment of civic tech consists of privately funded companies that use crowdsourcing and peer-to-peer transactions like Waze and Airbnb.The Knight Foundations current research, done in collaboration with the Rita Allen Foundation, seeks to understand how the more philanthropic-minded civic tech startups with less obvious income streams can adopt models that will allow them to scale up and become mature businesses.The purpose is to be a lot more intentional about the way we structure our funding to startups in this space, with an acknowledgment about the path to more sustainable operations, looking toward building repeatable and reliable revenue and examining the types of capacities that need to be invested early on in order to achieve those aspirations, explained Jonathan Sotsky, Knight Foundation director of strategy and assessment.OpenGov, a financial transparency and analysis platform, is a prototypical example of a company showing increased sophistication in the civic tech space, Sotsky said. OpenGov continues to partner with and buy other companies to expand its offerings and attract new rounds of investment. But this isnt happening everywhere in civic tech.Theres been a lot more success in the B2G organizations and on the data portal side of things than there has been on business-to-citizen or consumer plays that are trying to promote civic engagement, Sotsky said.Despite the economic challenges facing civic tech, participants continue to gather from all over.I think its the tail end of the technology wave disrupting different verticals, Sotsky said of the markets growing popularity. In some ways, the way technology is doing that to civic life and within government is trailing a few other spaces where weve seen that disruption play out more vividly in the last five to 10 years. And part of it is an issue of vocabulary. People are starting to glom on, to self-identify or point to this broader movement to start to label it as a field, where [before] it was a bunch of ebbs and flows of seemingly distinct pieces of activity. I think the more that people can self-identify, that improves the ability to learn from peers, to collaborate with others and to ultimately achieve the type of impact folks are striving for., todays technology chiefs keep the front doors of their city halls propped open. Minneapolis CIO Otto Dolls conversion from civic technology skeptic to wary supporter is symbolic of a shift among government leaders who are more willing to admit they could use some extra help.In 2013, Minneapolis began exploring the potential behind its hacker-made apps, like the real-time transportation portal OMG Transit. Immediately, Doll said, the city was faced with challenges. For one, the apps developers demanded payment for continued maintenance that the city couldnt necessarily provide. Releasing current data to keep such apps running costs money, Doll said, but the city didnt want to release data without knowing if the project would survive. There were too many questions and no clear solutions of how Minneapolis and developers could work together. But in the past few years, attitudes have changed, Doll said. People are more willing to work without promise of compensation when theyre committed to their causes, and government is opening new avenues of collaboration in recognition of the opportunities it can create.We dont have all the answers, said Doll. And taking advantage of these people with these skills and experiences is really valuable. Im hopeful that were turning a corner, because the civic hacking community has found that theres few, if really much of any, must-have apps or implementations that someone is going to find fulfillment in, in a financial way.Governments relaxed posture is letting more people in and also changing how its partners operate. When nonprofit Code for America (CfA) launched in 2010, its early brigades and accelerators had more of an experimental feel. Its members worked on big problems, and they got people excited about new ideas for government. But cities sometimes kept the group at arms length, and the social impact of the projects wasnt always evident. Today the groups efforts are more substantial.Last year, California invited CfA to advise on procurement of a child welfare services system. Working with Californias Office of Systems Integration and departments of Social Services, Technology and General Services, with consulting help from 18F, CfA convinced the state to trade its plan of a traditional monolithic procurement for an iterative development process. The group predicted the states original plan would likely have run late and gone over budget. If CfA was right, the nonprofits intervention will save taxpayers millions.The thing we took away from it was that these people were embracing change. They were owning the change, said CfA Founder Jennifer Pahlka. They were excited about the work that they could do, and it was their willingness in the state to make this change and employ a radically different approach despite what, of course, is a degree of risk in change.The reason her nonprofit was invited in, Pahlka said, is because governments now recognize that CfA understands the public sectors challenges and know that CfA isnt a watchdog group it exists to enable success.The first age of Code for America was that experience and that ability to build relationships with people in government and with the tech industry, and it served us very well in the transition, Pahlka said. What we did in 2011, 2012, 2013 was exactly right for 2011, 2012, 2013. I think what we did then changed peoples perceptions of whats possible and people in governments desire to work in new ways and tech industry folks willing to come to the table around this issue, which set us up for the work we do [today].The Sunlight Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 2006 that focuses on government transparency, hasnt diverged from its mission either, said Kat Duffy, the groups Labs director, but its relationship with government has changed.Weve had a dialog with government for a while, she said, but over the past couple of years weve seen an expansion in the governments promotion of civic tech, particularly bringing technologists into the space through mechanisms like 18F and USDS and in that respect, we have more clearly direct counterparts in government who we can engage with.The federal governments increased participation in civic tech is taking up some of the slack previously reserved for watchdog groups too. In April, the White House opened public comment on a governmentwide open source software policy. The Sunlight Foundation has encouraged such a move for years.That means we no longer have to engage with government on the importance of open source code to begin with, Duffy said. So we can engage constructively because we no longer have to push for the importance of open data or open government to even exist as a concept.Cases where governments establish new modes of thinking are exceptional. Whether through the creation of digital services units, procurement from cloud-based startups or pursuit of wisdom from its civic tech partners, its clear the old structure and practices of government are unacceptable to a public that thinks it could do a better job itself if given a chance. These trends represent the biggest in government technology today, said Abhi Nemani, Sacramento, Calif.s interim chief innovation officer and former chief data officer of Los Angeles.New York has a digital services inside their Health and Human Services Department, he said. Chicagos whole IT shop could be considered something of a digital services unit because of their very top-notch developers. San Francisco has started to build out theirs. Some counties are looking at it a few counties in Massachusetts, for instance. In L.A., I had started piloting one, as well.Now in Sacramento, Nemani sees the challenges that smaller governments face in adopting modern practices. Its not so simple for organizations hundreds of years old to jettison their knowledge and start over, especially without the resources of larger organizations. Attracting and retaining the caliber of technical talent needed to sustain innovation is near impossible. Filling even a single top spot is challenging, and governments often go months without a permanent replacement to the CIO. Something has to give.Is this whole chief X officer model sustainable? Nemani asked. Its harder for small cities to do that, and even when big cities do it, they often dont resource them fully. Theyre not running a department, per se. Theyre running just a shop and so they dont have the resources to buy, to hire, etc. So what can they really get done in the long run? For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers. Unlike many employers, the state of Arizona is now encouraging its workforce to use social media on the job. While it may sound unconventional, the approach is part of a pilot project between Menlo Park-based Facebook and the states Department of Administration (ADOA) through the companys new Facebook at Work platform.Facebook has been testing and gathering input from more than 450 companies around the world on the product, but has yet to activate the service publicly. Arizona represents the first government to test drive the product for public-sector input.Through the Facebook offshoot, users can connect with coworkers, post content to public walls and schedule meetings.State CIO Morgan Reed said ADOA has been actively using Facebook at Work for several months with great success.Weve been piloting it for a little while now and its been fantastic, our employees like it, he said. Really, Arizona is trying to be the model for other states and lead the way to embrace technology that the private sector would use, not just what other governments are using, to help us attract that next generation of employee.An added benefit of the tool is that most employees are already familiar with the application's operations from their personal use. Unlike some of the internal communications platforms being used in the state at the moment, Facebook at Work allows staff to engage with their coworkers from anywhere, through the mobile application on a smartphone.The mobility is key. The fact is that we have some services online in the government, but very few ways that you can interact through mobile, he said. But again, if I dont know somebodys email or phone number, being able to interact with those folks when they are outside these walls becomes challenging.But the shiny new work tool is not to be confused with the likes of its origins the original Facebook. This platform is not meant to share cat videos, or post photos from a wild night on the town; Facebook at Work is bound by all of the same records-keeping requirement of other internal government communications and still falls under the purview of human resources.What it is meant for is communicating about work to coworkers more efficiently. Additionally, Reed said the platform has the potential to close the gaps between the federated states 30 email systems and allows for more direct connections.This is work Facebook, so we tell our employees not to confuse it with personal, dont post anything you wouldnt want HR or your boss or legal to see, because they are on the platform and they are watching, Reed told. But, its been really great for driving employee engagement, tearing down the silos between agencies and divisions, and really creating that two-way conversation.Instead of using the top-down email approach where this is what the directors or the governor want to tell you the Facebook at Work platform offers one-to-one connections, Reed said, where you can message somebody or like somebodys comment, respond to it, ask questions. "Its really allowed us to be more efficient," he added, "which is one of the governors goals for more efficient government.According to Reed, there was some initial reluctance to rush into the service because of how government is required to manage internal communications. Would the state maintain ownership of the data? And how would it adhere to the rules around public records?The long and the short of it, Reed said, is that the state maintains all ownership and access rights. It just took time, as it would with any new platform, to work out these details.Out of the box because of all the built-in security that Facebook has, it met most of our needs right away, he said. We just needed clarification to understand how they lined up.Additionally, the scalability of the service was attractive for the government that employs roughly 40,000 people statewide. Because the platform has not officially launched on the marketplace, Reed said the cost or lack thereof was a definite draw. During the trial period, ADOA is not paying for the service.Were using it as long as it makes sense for the state to use it," he said. "As with any product that we use, if prices change, they have to go through procurement law and things like that, but as long as its free and relevant and usable, we dont have a plan to stop using it." The action plan also encompasses a range of initiatives, including a focus on clean transportation. As part of that effort, the leaders committed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from light- and heavy-duty vehicles by aligning fuel efficiency and/or GHG emission standards out to 2025 and 2027, respectively. They further agreed to reduce air pollutant emissions by aligning air pollutant emission standards for light- and heavy-duty vehicles and corresponding ultra low-sulfur fuel standards by 2018. In addition, the SmartWay freight transportation program will be extended to Mexico. As one of the outcomes of the Three Amigos meeting in Ottawa, Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US President Barack Obama, and Mexico President Enrique Pena Nieto committed to an ambitious and enduring North American Climate, Clean Energy, and Environment Partnership. A key element of that partnership is a goal for North America to strive to achieve 50% clean power generation by 2025. Further action related to clean transportation includes: Accelerating deployment of clean vehicles in government fleets; Working collaboratively with industry to encourage the adoption of clean vehicles by identifying initiatives to support consumer choice; Encouraging public and private infrastructure investments to establish North American refuelling corridors for clean vehicles; Working to align applicable regulations, codes and standards where appropriate; Fostering research, development, and demonstration activities for new clean technologies; and Convening industry leaders and other stakeholders by spring 2017 as part of a shared vision for a competitive and clean North American automotive sector. A related commitment is to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025; the countries will call on the other members of the G-20 to do the same. The three are also urging the G-20 to make commitments to reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas sector and to improve the environmental performance of heavy-duty vehicles. The leaders supported the adoption by all countries in 2016 of the market-based measure proposed through the International Civil Aviation Organization to allow for carbon-neutral growth from international civil aviation from 2020 onwards and committed o join the first phase of the measure adopted. They also agreed to continue to work together and through the International Maritime Organization to support implementation of a North American Emission Control Area that includes Mexico. 50% clean power target. Building from ongoing efforts by the respective energy ministers through the North American Energy Ministerial Memorandum Concerning Climate Change and Energy Collaboration, a range of initiatives will support this goal, including: Scaling up clean energy through aggressive domestic initiatives and policies, including Mexicos Energy Transition Law and new Clean Energy Certificates, the US Clean Power Plan and five-year extension of production and investment tax credits, and Canadas actions to further scale up renewables, including hydro. Collaborating on cross-border transmission projects, including for renewable energy. At least six transmission lines currently proposed or in permitting review, such as the Great Northern Transmission Line, the New England Clean Power Link, and the Nogales Interconnection, would add approximately 5,000 megawatts (MW) of new cross-border transmission capacity. Conducting a joint study on the opportunities and impacts of adding more renewables to the power grid on a North American basis. Enhancing trilateral collaboration on greening of government initiatives including the purchase of more efficient products, cleaner power, and clean vehicles. Strengthening and aligning efficiency standards across all three countries, facilitating the seamless movement of products, reducing pollution, and cutting costs for consumers. They commited to promote industrial and commercial efficiency through the voluntary ISO 50001 energy performance standard and to align a total of ten energy efficiency standards or test procedures for equipment by the end of 2019. Building on North American leadership in international forums such as Mission Innovation to accelerate clean energy innovation, our energy researchers will identify joint research and demonstration initiatives to advance clean technologies in priority areas such as: electricity grids and energy storage; reducing methane emissions; carbon capture, utilization and storage; and advanced heating and cooling, including energy efficiency in buildings. The three countries will continue to strengthen the North American Cooperation on Energy Information platform, by including additional geospatial information relating to cross-border infrastructure and renewable energy resources. They also commited to deepened electric reliability cooperation to strengthen the security and resilience of an increasingly integrated North American electricity grid. Short-lived climate pollutants. Short-lived climate pollutants such as methane, black carbon, and hydrofluorocarbons are up to thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide. Common sense actions to reduce these pollutants will deliver significant climate and health benefits in the near term and into the future, supporting our goal to limit global warming this century. Mexico will join Canada and the United States in committing to reduce their methane emissions from the oil and gas sectorthe worlds largest anthropogenic methane source40% to 45% by 2025, towards achieving the greenhouse gas targets in nationally determined contributions. To achieve this goal, the three countries commit to develop and implement federal regulations to reduce emissions from existing and new sources in the oil and gas sector as soon as possible. We also commit to develop and implement national methane reduction strategies for key sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, and waste management, including food waste. The countries pledge to continue collaborating with one another and with international partners as we commit to significant national actions to reduce black carbon emissions in North America, and promote alternatives to highly polluting hydrofluorocarbons. VF Corp. has moved forward in trimming its apparel portfolio, but for a division it had not forewarned that was on the block and at a deep discount. The Greensboro apparel marketer said Thursday it has agreed to sell its Contemporary Brands division highlighted by 7 for All Mankind, Splendid and Ella Moss premium brands for $120 million to Delta Galil Industries Ltd. of Tel Aviv, Israel. The 7 For All Mankind brands is in the denim category, while Splendid and Ella Moss is in sportswear. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter. Eric Wiseman, VFs chairman and chief executive, said in a statement that the sale of the Contemporary Brands division is part of VF taking a focused and proactive look at the composition of our business portfolio to ensure that we are well positioned to maximize VFs growth and return to our shareholders. This announcement illustrates that our work as active portfolio managers is progressing. The sale price equates just on acquisition prices alone to VF getting less than 10 cents on the dollar for what it paid to acquire the three brands. VF bought Seven For All Mankind LLC for $775 million in August 2007. It acquired the rights to Ella Moss and Splendid in two separate asset transactions of its owner, Mo Industries Holdings Inc., which was completed in March 2009. Overall, it spent $238 million on the Mo Industries assets, as well as paying $47 million in Mo Industries net debt. Isaac Dabah, Delta Galils chief executive, said the brands will further diversify our product offering and distribution channels, while adding significant strength to our structure. We see tremendous opportunity to expand the brands platform for growth through continued focus on superior quality, design and innovation. Delta Galil projects the brands will add $300 million in annual sales. The Contemporary Brands division was a clear underperformer in VFs portfolio in recent years. Divisional sales dropped 14 percent in fiscal 2015 to $344 million representing just 2.8 percent of total company revenue. Sales were off 15 percent in the first quarter of fiscal 2016 to $74 million. Impairment charges taken on the brands just in fiscal 2015 exceeded what VF is getting in the deal. VF said in regulatory filings that in fiscal 2014 and 2015, it had taken combined impairment charges of $97.1 million for 7 For All Mankind and $75.9 million for Splendid and Ella Moss to write off their remaining customer relationship asset balances. In addition, VF had taken combined impairment charges of $163.7 million for 7 For All Mankind and $61 million for Splendid and Ella Moss to reduce the carrying value of their indefinite-lived trademarks to fair value. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015, VFs reduction of the goodwill values of the three brands resulted in a $97 million after-tax charge. That followed a $396.4 million write-down of goodwill with the same brands in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2104, resulting in a $307 million after-tax charge. VF announced March 25 it was exploring strategic options for its Licensed Sports Group business, which is part of its imagewear division. The groups primary brand is Majestic, which has the National Football League and Major League Baseball as pivotal customers. Majestic is the official on-field uniform supplier for every MLB team. VF bought Majestic Athletic Inc. in April 2007. Apparel from the group also is sold to consumers through licensing agreements with U.S. and international professional sports leagues, individual professional athletes, colleges and universities, and lifestyle brands, such as Harley-Davidson at its dealerships. The Licensed Sports Group represented $517 million in sales during fiscal 2015, up 4 percent from the previous year. That represented about 4.2 percent of VFs overall fiscal 2015 revenue of $12.37 billion. LOS ANGELES Tarzan may be among Americas classic fictional characters, but hes not beyond reproach. Like so many well-worn tales, Edgar Rice Burroughs Tarzan was borne of a vastly different time more than 100 years ago, when narratives rooted in colonialism, white saviors and African stereotypes were the norm. Throughout the decades, Tarzan also became a staple of Hollywood there have been 52 authorized films and seven television series that have told the tales of the King of the Jungle. For a bygone era, hes the model romantic adventurer. Today, hes a blemish on the history of literature and film. The Legend of Tarzan is the first big-budget studio attempt to take on the character in the modern CGI world. Not only does the Warner Bros. film show feats of derring-do that not so long ago could only be imagined, but it also endeavors to spin a more contemporary story for todays sensibilities. As with Hollywoods other recent adaptations of beloved tales with outmoded values, the Tarzan filmmakers did the delicate dance of trying to both preserve its original spirit while also correcting or even discarding its problematic origins. Their approach was to infuse the story with historical perspective, then bake it all into an action-adventure worthy of the superhero generation. Some people would rather Tarzan be left for the ages, but the characters roots are so deep that theyve become archetypal. Edgar Rice Burroughs just tapped into a primal myth of humanity, said Scott Tracy Griffin, the author of Tarzan: The Centennial Celebration and the forthcoming Tarzan on Film. He is an orphan who is stranded and must find a way to his manhood and to reclaim his legacy. Alexander Skarsgard, the latest leading man to do the Tarzan yodel, noted, too, that people have always been very fascinated by our more animalistic side and the notion of the noble savage. He also acknowledged those troubling origins. At the time it was written, the way people in Western Europe and in America viewed indigenous people was quite horrific, and it was quite common. It was widespread, the notion that they were an inferior race, Skarsgard said. It was very obviously important to steer away from the notion of like the white man coming down to Africa to save all the black people because they cant save themselves. ... The movie is about them kicking the colonizing force out of the country. This film introduces Tarzan at midlife already married to Jane (Margot Robbie) and living in England as Lord Greystoke long past his vine-swinging days. When he receives an invitation from King Leopold to visit the Congo and see the Belgian leaders work there, its George Washington Williams (Samuel L. Jackson) who convinces him to go and find out whats really happening to the native people. The injection of Williams a real-life historian and Civil War veteran who exposed atrocities of the Congo into the Tarzan mythology helped director David Yates ground it in a historical context. It also helped them turn away from some of the storys less palatable elements. It wasnt difficult to jettison those very old-fashioned aspects of the story because it doesnt belong to our century, Yates said. Jackson sees this Tarzan as purely naturalistic; a character whose unique worldview transcends political mores. Even though the enslavement is there, and you see it, and hes there to right that injustice, he said, hes part of a world where he is integrated into that society and he understands his place in it. ... Its a story of somebody whos environmentally correct and humanly correct with that particular world. Tarzan has been around so long that adjusting to the times has been as integral to his longevity as hanging vines. Producers have been able to tap into whatever is going on in society and put Tarzan into that, Griffin said. In the 1950s, there was a clear Western inspiration in the films, which gave way to a James Bond sensibility in the 1960s, he said. Even Disney had a take, although that 1999 animated film just sidestepped native populations altogether. The Legend of Tarzan is certainly something new, and perhaps the most aggressive effort to right the wrongs, while still keeping Tarzan in the zeitgeist. Yet there are those who believe Tarzan should be left in the past. In some ways it would be like trying to remake Gone With the Wind now, said Todd Boyd, a professor of Cinema and Media Studies at the USC School of Cinematic Arts. Its just a very old set of images rooted in an old history that I think is really hard to redeem. ... You can certainly dress it up with technology now. You can also cast it in such a way that its more diverse. But I just think that some things are perhaps beyond redemption. OTTAWA, Ontario President Barack Obama and the leaders of Mexico and Canada pushed back forcefully on Wednesday against the isolationist and anti-immigrant sentiments that have roiled Britain and been championed by GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump. The leaders warned against easy solutions peddled by "demagogues" who feed on economic anxiety. With tensions growing over terrorism and fallout from Britain's exit from the European Union, Obama acknowledged that Americans and others have reason to be concerned about their own future in a rapidly globalizing economy. He said concerns about immigrants had been exploited by politicians in the past, but he insisted he wasn't worried Americans will follow that path. "We should take some of this seriously and answer it boldly and clearly," Obama said, without naming the Republican presidential candidate. "But you shouldn't think that is representative of how the American people think." Gathering in the Canadian capital, the leaders defended their calls for freer trade within the continent and beyond. They argued that instead of withdrawing from the world, advanced countries should focus on higher standards, wages and legal protections that would ensure the benefits of globalization are widely felt. "The integration of national economies into a global economy, that's here. That's done," Obama said. Obama's comments at a joint news conference with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto came as the leaders sought a show of unity amid growing nationalist movements in Europe and elsewhere, epitomized by Britain's move to leave the 28-member EU. Obama also planned to address the Canadian Parliament during his visit, becoming the ninth American leader to do so. Though Britain's decision has rattled the global financial system, Obama said he believed the markets were starting to settle down. Still, he acknowledged there would be "genuine longer-term concerns" about global economic growth "if, in fact, Brexit goes through." "This doesn't help," he said. Obama said his primary message to British Prime Minister David Cameron and to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is largely spearheading Europe's response, was that "everybody should catch their breath." Though Merkel and other European leaders have urged Britain to start its withdrawal quickly, Obama called for a thought-out process that would be transparent and clearly understandable to all of Europe's citizens. "I think that will be a difficult, challenging process, but it does not need to be a panicky process," the president said. The Canadian and Mexican leaders largely echoed Obama's calls for staying focused on closer economic ties. Pena Nieto said Mexico sees opportunity for growth and investment by broadening its relationship with the rest of the continent. "We are competitors, yes, but we have complimentary economies, and that will give more development to our society," he said. And Trudeau said the three leaders' strategy for combatting protectionist views was to "highlight how much trade and positive agreement among our nations are good not only for the economy of the world and the economy of our countries, but it's also good for our citizens." Yet it was Trump and his insistence that Americans are better served by reasserting independence that shadowed the leaders' meetings at the annual North American Leaders' Summit. Even as the three took the podium in Ottawa, Trump was threatening to pull the U.S. out of the North American Free Trade Agreement, chanting at a rally, "No more NAFTA." When a reporter asked the leaders to weigh in on Trump, Obama intervened before Trudeau could answer, suggesting he should be careful what he says in case Trump ends up winning. "I'm not saying they shouldn't answer. I'm just I'm helping him out a little bit," Obama said. He appeared personally insulted by Trump's claims to represent the public's best interests, accusing the presumptive Republican nominee of wrongly purporting to be a populist. He said people like Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders rightly deserve label of "populist" but that Trump is merely resorting to "nativism," ''xenophobia" and "cynicism." The attack on a Turkish airport in which dozens died on Tuesday added to the urgency of discussions about how the three countries can work together to enhance security. Sitting down earlier with Pena Nieto, Obama said the gun-and-bomb attacks show how little these "vicious organizations" have to offer. "We will not rest until we have dismantled these networks of hate that have an impact on the entire civilized world," Obama said. Ahead of the summit, Trudeau and Pena Nieto announced measures to reduce barriers during the Mexican leader's state visit to Canada. Trudeau said Canada will lift visa requirements for Mexican visitors as of December 2016. Pena Nieto agreed to open Mexican markets to Canadian beef. Efforts to curb global warming were a big part of the summit. The leaders pledged to rely on renewable energy to generate 50 percent of North America's electrical power by 2025. Mexico also committed to joining the United States and Canada in tackling methane emissions. Nearly a week ago, on June 24 , his 45th birthday, Jason Sheats gathered with his family in the living room of their Houston-suburb home around 5 p.m. Beside him were his daughters, Taylor, 22, and Madison, 17. His wife, Christy, had called a family meeting. After years of challenges with Christy's mental health, her struggles with depression and anxiety, her suicide attempts, Jason told authorities that he thought perhaps she was going to announce she had decided to file for divorce. The couple had talked about separating. But instead, police said, the 42-year old mother pulled out a .38 caliber handgun, a gift from her late grandfather, and pointed it at her screaming children. Then she shot them, inside the house and out in the street, where the girls collapsed and stopped moving. When law enforcement arrived, they watched Christy fire a final bullet into her eldest daughter, then a police officer shot the mother dead. Jason Sheats walked away physically unscathed. But he was so emotionally distraught, so numb from what he'd witnessed, that authorities hospitalized him anyway. In interviews with police, Jason said he believes that was all part of Christy's plan. "She wanted him to suffer," Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls said in a press conference Wednesday. "Christy had ample time to shoot and kill Mr. Sheats in the home but she chose not to. Mr. Sheats stated that Christy knew how much he loved Taylor and Madison, and how much they loved him." "Mr. Sheats will have to live the rest of his life with this horrible memory," Nehls said. The Sheats family shooting case has gained attention for almost a week as more details of the tragedy unfold with each passing day. On Tuesday, the Sheriff's office, citing legal obligation, released three disturbing 911 calls from the night of the shooting; one from Taylor, one from Madison, and one from a neighbor who watched in horror as Christy retreated back inside the home, her daughters already bleeding in the street, then emerged again with more bullets. The girls, screaming and crying, can be heard begging their mom to stop. In the background, a man's voice pleads: "I promise you, whatever you want." Early reports indicated that Christy, described by friends and family online as a loving and proud mother, may have been struggling with mental illness. At Wednesday's press conference, Nehls confirmed that theory. Sheriff's deputies had been called out to the house more than a dozen times since 2012, the same year Christy's elderly grandfather died in Alabama, where he raised her like a daughter. Two months later, her mother died. That's when her "downward spiral" began, Nehls said, recounting interviews with Jason Sheats. The calls for service varied in substance: three were after suicide attempts by Christy; two were medical calls; one was a call from the Sheriff's Office Crisis Intervention Team; another was a verbal altercation; once, Christy called 911 because she wanted to speak to a deputy. Five of the calls were "false alarms," the Sheriff's Office said in a press release. Jason Sheats told investigators that his wife struggled with depression and anxiety and after each suicide attempt had been treated and evaluated at different private mental health facilities. After a stay of several days, Jason told authorities, he would pick Christy up and take her home. At the time of the shooting, Jason said his wife was taking "numerous" prescription medications. She was also seeing a therapist. Despite information on her LinkedIn profile listing her as the business manager of a Houston tattoo removal clinic, Jason told police his wife did not have a job, according to NBC News. They'd been married for more than 20 years, Jason told authorities, but Christy had been drinking heavily and they'd separated several times. The gun she used to kill her children was inherited from her grandfather, authorities said. Christy had applied for a concealed carry permit, Jason told investigators, but the state of Texas rejected her application. Nehls said at the press conference his office is investigating why the license was not approved. It was unclear whether it had to do with Christy's mental health history. From the outside, the Sheats family appeared to be tight-knit and loving. In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, friends told local news outlets that Christy and Jason both loved their daughters. The girls were described as happy and kind. In one Facebook post, Christy called Madison and Taylor "very best friends." Their social media lives reflected the same. Posts on Christy's wall include drawings from Taylor, an avid and talented artist who attended Lone Star College. She shared photographs of herself and Madison at country music concerts, alongside musings about her faith and support of the Second Amendment. She often tagged her husband in comments and joked with friends. But behind the scenes, Christy, and her family, were crumbling. Other posts on her social media accounts hint at that. She wrote often about how painful it was to lose her grandfather, a man she called "Pa-paw" and who she credited with teaching her the ways of the world. She called him her best friend, mentor and hero. On major anniversaries of his death, Christy would pen lengthy, heartfelt tributes to the man, and discuss the emptiness she still felt without him. "Death has a way of reducing us to desperate beggars," she wrote on June 7, 2015, the three-year anniversary of his death. ". . . They say time heals and the heart recovers but I reject this notion as my heart still grieves and suffers his loss every single day." She continued: "But 3 years. . .36 months. . .1,095 days without seeing his million dollar smile, without his ray of sunshine has felt like my heart has been stranded in the middle of the artic without shelter." In 2012, she wrote that she felt she'd never get over losing him, "but hopefully one day, my heart will begin to heal." Her family and friends responded with comforting comments, including Jason and Taylor. On a post on the two-month anniversary, Christy's eldest daughter wrote: "He'd want you to not spend your life on sadness, as he brought so much happiness unto us all. Love you and hope you feel better. With time, it may get easier. He's with you now, and forever." On Christy's birthday last year, Taylor surprised her mom with a sea of white balloons marked with happy wishes. "YOU ARE SO LOVED," one said. At the press conference Wednesday, Nehls said it was an argument with Taylor on Friday that precipitated the killings. Christy and Taylor argued, he said, and the mother wanted to prevent her from seeing her fiance, whom she was scheduled to marry Monday, according to reports. Jason disagreed, arguing it was "inappropriate" to ground their 22-year-old daughter just because of a spat. By the end of the night, everyone but Jason was dead. At the press conference, Nehls said the father didn't want to speak publicly about the shootings, but gave police permission to share the details about what motivated Christy. "He did state she accomplished what she set out to do," Nehls said. "And that is to make him suffer." Washington Post News Service (DC) 6/30/2016 5:21:58 AM Central Daylight Time This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate BRIDGEPORT The owners of a popular Brazilian-style restaurant are opening a second location in the city. It was about two years ago when local restaurant owners Manny Olivares and Ricardo Maia decided to go into business together. Its a collaboration that will bear its fruit Friday with the opening of Rancho Pantanal at 2025 Boston Ave. We figured heres a great location, said Olivares, who is also the owner of Pantanal Restaurant on Frank Street. Its very visible. There is a lot of traffic. Theres a lot of residential area and you dont see lot of good restaurants, where you can get good food. Maia, the owner of ID Brazil Churrascaria & Restaurant in West Haven, and Olivares both credit a spike in the population of the Brazilian community for the optimistic business approach in the venture. According to the U.S. Census Bureaus American Community Survey, there are over 11,000 people of Brazilian descent in Fairfield County. Roughly a third live in Bridgeport. Rancho Pantanal will serve the food in the Brazilian-style of rodizio, or meats that have been cooked rotisserie-style over a pit of charcoal and carved at the table. Its a tradition in Brazil, according to Maia. There are not many that do the service that we have. Its a very popular way to eat in Brazil, said Maia. As it is with the opening of most businesses, there were a handful of difficulties getting off the ground, according to Olivares. A major roadblock came due to a lack of assistance or cooperation at times with the city of Bridgeport, he added. It seems like these guys are anti-business, anti-people trying to better the area, said Olivares. Its amazing how they go through all this extent to not let us open and to me its kind of frustrating. Yes, we want to comply with the regulations and were doing everything in our power to do it. But help us. Arben Kica, deputy building official for the city of Bridgeport, said that he was unaware of any frustrations that Olivares and Maia had and that the city was civil while working with them. I dont know. I think we were more than amicable, said Kica. But after finally getting past all permits, forms, and red tape, Rancho Pantanal is ready to open its doors and provide a different kind of feeling for the clientele that they will be catering to on Boston Avenue. This is a specific style of servicing not only the foods were going to have but the style in which its served, said Olivares. So thats kind of unique and thats the experience we want to bring to the area here. According to Maia, opening a new business can always be a scary situation, but that the attitude going into the endeavor is a positive one for the duo. We are so excited and at the same time so nervous about it, said Maia. We never know how the people are going to react. There arent that many restaurants here so we dont know how the neighborhood are going to receive us and the style of the food. So theres a little nerves about it but I think everything will go well. Mill Hill Neighborhood Revitalization Zone president Francisco Borres said that the Boston Avenue area is a strong place for a long and prosperous sit-down restaurant. He said he believes they can be successful there. I think their success is predicated on being able to go into the neighborhood, Borres said. The two business partners said they are expecting to commit to the area for a number of years into the future. Our intention is really for the long haul, said Olivares. Were not here just for a few weeks or a few years. We intend to be here for a long time and run as a family business. AJohnson@hearstmediact.com In 2011, Bank of America (BoA) agreed to pay out a settlement regarding charges leveled against Countrywide, which BoA had purchased. A number of mortgages were made through Countrywide on false pretenses, leaving mortgage bond investors with a number of loans that were defaulted on. Last month, after five years of further court debates, those investors are finally receiving their payouts. The holdup was due to the fact that the Bank of New York Mellon had to make the settlement. The bank was serving as a trustee for the 530 mortgage-backed securities trust in the case, but it was called into question whether Bank of New York Mellow actually had the full authority to agree to a settlement. In May, a judge in New York declared that the bank did have that authority and approved the settlement payouts of 512 of the trusts in the case. A report issued by Fitch Ratings states that investors did receive their portion of the $8.5 billion in settlement funds this month. The amount the 22 different institutional investors received for these trusts was determined by a third-party based on each loan's projected net losses over its lifetime. In February 2016, the entire $8.5 billion was paid to Bank of New York Mellon. The delay between February and June was due to the bank seeking judicial guidance to determine the order in which to pay out funds. GREENWICH Going to camp is a summer tradition for kids that many might take for granted. For Greenwichs kids in need, the matter requires more than being up in time for the bus in the morning. The town Department of Social Services Campership Program provides scholarships to town children allowing them to go to camp in the summer. But donations are needed to meet the demand. There are kids in town whose families cant afford the fees, said Allison Brush, community gifts project coordinator for the Department of Social Services. Were dependent on individuals and businesses being able to give us donations so we can give scholarships to the kids and let them have the summer camp experience. The program has been in place for more than 50 years, and sends kids 4- to 14-years-old to local day camps and sleepaway camps in Connecticut. Brush said its important to allow kids to have the physical activity that camps offer, but the program also helps provide child care during the summer for working parents. So far this summer, 220 kids are being helped through the Campership Program, but more money is needed for 58 kids remain on the waiting list. According to Brush, a $400 donation will send a child to camp for two weeks; $525 for three weeks. But Brush said donations do not have to be that big. Smaller gifts can add up and make for a memorable summer experience. The goal is to send every kid on the waiting list to camp. Ill take any donation large or small, Brush said. This is something people can really be confident in giving to because theres no overhead involved here. When someone makes a donation, 100 percent of it goes toward helping the kids. People are not going to see their money go toward office work. This is all going to the kids, and the more I get the more I can give. More information is available by calling Brush at 203-622-3715. Checks made out to the Greenwich Campership Fund can be mailed to Brush at the Greenwich Department of Social Services at Town Hall, 101 Field Point Road, Greenwich, 06830. kborsuk@scni.com This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Eighteen-year-old Catherine Esposito stood on a western Greenwich dance floor this week practicing her steps. And three, right, left, right, chasse, she called to four others, dressed like she was in a black camisole and shorts with sheer stockings cut off at the ankles. They synchronized their reflections in a wall-length mirror. Remember, you will have to adjust to the size of the stage, called out their instructor, Melissa Truelove, helping the dancers form a diagonal line across the floor at the Western Greenwich Civic Center as the introduction to Nina Simones Sinnerman flooded the room. The stage the dancers will perform on will be very far from Greenwich. Exactly one week before they fly to southwestern Germany, they worked on perfecting the 17 numbers they will perform abroad. They are the Ambassadors in Leotards, a troupe that has been making this trip for 42 years. In 1974, German-born dancer and ballet mistress Felizitas Foote, more commonly known in Greenwich as Felicity, began taking dancers to stay at her farmhouse in Buhl to perform in the region. Now in 2016, Truelove, director of the Greenwich-based Dance Pointe company, and Greenwich YWCA YDance Director Kendall Moran continue the tradition, taking the helm as Foote is now in her 90s. The directors pick dancers from their respective programs to take part in the Ambassadors, who make the German trip every other year. Its by invitation only, said Truelove. They have to be good kids, responsible, respectable. In the end, we are taking them overseas. Moran traveled with Foote during the Ambassadors in Leotards first trip to Buhl. It was magical, she said. Truelove first toured to Buhl in 1990, the year after the Berlin Wall fell. I had so many people to look up to, she said. Kendall was my mentor; she was my inspiration. It was hard to be away from family, but we were with family. The other dancers were like my sisters. Since then, both committed their lives to dance and have been returning to Germany regularly. Its semi-tradition (now), Moran said. But its also the bonds you create. Its what you can accomplish with youth. Its amazing what kids can do when they put their minds to it. The Ambassadors will be in Germany from July 8 to July 18, performing in Radolfzell, Tiengen, and Buhl. Proceeds from each show traditionally went to the town where the performance took place, but this is the third time the money will go to the special needs school, Lebenshilfe of Tiengen. When I lived there in my 20s, said Truelove, I met one of my closest friends. She has a child with Down syndrome who goes to that school. Her first year leading the trip, they raised $1,500 for the school. We are hoping to double that this time, Truelove said. Eighteen-year-old Brooke Sweeney graduated from Greenwich High School last year and currently attends Colgate University. She has been dancing with Moran since 2009 and is taking her third trip to Buhl. Dancers are usually of high school age, but Truelove says there is no hard age limit. Most of the girls in the current troupe have traveled to Germany once or twice before to perform. Dance is my passion, Sweeney said. I just think its an unbelievable opportunity and Ive never come across anything like this. We all bond here, and then we fly across the ocean and get to rehearse there. The Ambassadors also take master dance classes with some of Trueloves former colleagues in Germany when they are not performing. We dont speak German, but its almost like dance becomes a language, Sweeney said. Esposito, like Sweeney, has been in the program for seven years and is ready for her third trip as well. Its really lovely, she said. Its definitely a unique experience that I dont think I could have or will have again. Another huge perk? Long-lasting friendships. We never want to break up, Sweeney said of the dance troupe. We always say to each other, I love you to Buhl and back. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The new year has not been kind to regional foodies. Restaurant closings seem to happening every month throughout the county and it's beginning to weigh on local stomachs. Remember back to January, when 2016 greeted the area with five restaurant closings: Salsa in New Milford, The Inn at Newtown, Home on the Range in Bridgeport, Post 154 in Westport, and Eclisse Italian Cuisine in Stamford. Just like that, these hometown classics were no more. Then in February three more spots shuttered their doors: The Cobb's Mill Inn in Weston, Antonio's Restaurant in Ansonia, and a local McDonald's in Bridgeport. The next few months, with the exception of May, didn't trend any differently. Related: OpenTable's most scenic restaurants in southwestern Connecticut Most recently, Acqua Ristorante Mediterraneo in Westport served its last meal on Thursday, June 30. Ramze Zakka, owner of Z Hospitality Group, told Hearst Connecticut Media at the time that the decision to close was partially due to a growing number of restaurants in Westport. "Westport got saturated with a lot of restaurants. There's a lot of competition out there now," Zakka said. "Zoning laws have changed over the years, and now anybody can get a liquor license and open up a restaurant." Related: Rooftop bars and restaurants of southwest Connecticut Is that the issue in most of the county? P.F. Changs in Stamford Town Center left in April 2016, likely due to a competitive restaurant areathat includes Capital Grille, California Pizza Kitchen, Cosi, Kona Grill and Plan B Burger Bar. Headlines regarding a credit card skimming ring probably didn't help either. Buckle your pants, Fairfield County, its only been six months and at least 20 local favorites are no more. Check out the slideshow above for a look at the local foodie favorites that are no more. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Courtesy of Joint Base Andrews Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Google Maps Show More Show Less 3 of 3 A lockdown at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland has been lifted following reports of an active shooter, officials said. According officials, authorities found no evidence of an active shooter following reports at the Malcolm Grow Medical Facility. Get one while you can. Photo: Enrique Castro/AFP/Getty Images The Golden States weather has been a real bastard lately, baking Southern Californians in temperatures as high as 122 degrees for more than a week now. The oven-esque conditions obviously take the blame for many sweaty backsides, but that region is also home to 90 percent of Americas avocados. Heat is a total menace to the nations darling green fruits, so its easy to figure the consequences. From todays L.A. Times: Growers in Fallbrook, De Luz and Temecula reported record temperatures between 110 and 117 degrees, as well as 30-mile per hour winds a potentially devastating combination for avocado groves planted in sandy soil where the fierce winds can wick away moisture faster than the trees can absorb it. The story warns of ramifications to peoples Fourth of July guacamole-eating abilities, but given the facts here, the effects on festive dippage sort of sound like the least of everybodys worries: These avocado farmers a group already super-screwed by their states world-historic drought are reporting that large sectors of their groves got shriveled and scorched. Some lost as many as a sixth of all their trees, while others note (somewhat apologetically) that most of what theyre sending to market in the coming days will be dropped fruit. So the biggest effect, then, may be on next years crop. In fact, the most optimistic farmer quoted by the Times says damages take a while to manifest themselves, so hes uncertain if there is a loss or not to next years crop. For the others, the picture gets pretty bleak: Jeanne Davis of Coyote Growers was nearing the end of her Hass season when temperatures climbed up to 113 degrees on her 6-acre Fallbrook orchard. While the blast may not affect this years farmers market sales, she is concerned about next year. Weve been here for 25 years, and this has never happened before, she says. There will probably be a minimal amount of avocados for next year because we think that some of the flowers didnt make it. Time to panic. [LAT] These are the best offers from our affiliate partners. We may get a commission from qualifying sales. Introduction We're already used to seeing Samsung release an 'Active' version of its current Galaxy S flagship. The Samsung Galaxy S7 active is the latest in the series and it has been released exclusively to AT&T as it's also become customary. If history should serve as any reference, the model would likely not see availability outside the stable of this particular US carrier. The S7 active has a much larger 4,000mAh battery inside. (by contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S7 has a 3,000mAh battery) Compared to the vanilla S7, there's also the extra physical key on the phone's side which takes you directly to an "Activity Zone" app, which is exclusive to the Active model. Samsung Galaxy S7 active Key Features Built to comply to the MIL-STD-810G standard with increased salt, dust, humidity, rain, vibration, solar radiation, transport, and thermal shock resistance IP68 certified - dust proof and water resistant up to 30 minutes in 5 feet of water 5.1" Super AMOLED QHD (1440 x 2560) resolution, Gorilla Glass 4, shatter proof for falls of up to 5 feet high onto a flat surface Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 - dual-core 2.15 GHz Kyro & dual-core 1.6 GHz Kyro w/ Adreno 530 4GB of RAM; 32GB of built-in storage, microSD up to 256GB Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow with Touchwiz UI 12MP camera, f/1.7 aperture, 1,4micron pixel size, phase-detection diodes at every pixel in the sensor, 4K video recording, LED flash, optical image stabilization 5MP front-facing camera, f/1.7 aperture, QHD video, HDR Fingerprint sensor LTE Cat.9, Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/ac, GPS/GLONASS/Beidou, NFC, IR port, Bluetooth 4.2, ANT+ Heart-rate sensor, barometer, SpO2 sensor 4,000mAh battery ; wireless charging FM Radio Main disadvantages Thicker than most of today's flagships (duh!) Exclusive to AT&T with lots of carrier bloatware No Samsung Gear VR compatibility Rest assured, we're all wondering for how much longer the Active series will remain an AT&T exclusive. Surely, there are many fans all over the world who would love to get one as an unlocked, carrier-free device without any pre-installed AT&T apps. We have no idea when that may happen but we're surely keeping our fingers crossed. Galaxy S7 active: Sandy Gold Green Camo Titanium Gray As for pricing, the premium for the Active model is just $100, which means it costs the same as the Galaxy S7 edge model in the US. So are the added features of the Galaxy S7 active worth this sort of premium? Read on and we'll find out together. Having announced MIUI 8 in China back in May, the company has now announced the global version alongside the Mi Max at an event in India. The global version has all the features of the Chinese version that we saw before, but Xiaomi also announced some new features at the event today. First off, we have seen the visual changes that are coming in this version. The notification drawer sees the biggest change, with a consolidated list and a weather panel at the top that changes color and animation according to the weather. Xiaomi has also incorporated the color changing status bar and animations in other apps across the UI. The OS is also smarter now. The scrolling screenshot feature lets you take a screenshot of an entire page by scrolling and combining multiple images into one long screenshot that you can then crop to your liking. The Quick Ball feature puts a circle on the side of the display that houses quick shortcuts to various functions such as back, app switcher, or shortcuts to apps that you can customize. MIUI 8 also added support for Dual Apps and dual spaces. Dual Apps allows you to have two instances of the same app on your device, so you can, for example, have two WhatsApp accounts on the same phone, one for each SIM, something you couldn't do before. You can have two instances of any app. Dual spaces lets you have two different workspaces on your device, each with its own set of apps, customizations, and image gallery, and you can enter a custom passcode on the lockscreen to enter either of the space. This will be especially handy on tablets that get shared between people. The Caller ID feature will now show you who is calling, and also has contact details of popular businesses so you can call them even if you don't know their numbers. This also works in messages, which now identifies contacts with unknown numbers and if it's a message from a business, it shows a more user friendly brand name instead of an indecipherable string of letters. MIUI 8 will be available on the Mi 5, Mi Max, Mi Note, Mi 4i, Mi 4, Mi 3, Mi 2, Redmi Note 3, Redmi Note 2, Redmi Note Prime, Redmi Note, Redmi 2 Prime, Redmi 2, and Redmi 1s. The public beta will be released on July 11 for these devices and the stable version will be released on August 16. A climate of terror descended on the Haitian capital last week after a spate of armed robberies, pot-shots at corporate buildings, and attacks against foreigners. In recent weeks, heavily armed commandos have carried out many assaults with the clear objective of politically destabilizing the interim government of President Jocelerme Privert. The violence comes after several provocative public statements by partisans and allies of former President Michel Martellys Haitian Bald Headed Party (PHTK) such as former departmental delegate and Martelly representative in the Southern Department Gabriel Fortune, , Martellys former de facto Prime Minister Evans Paul, Senate candidate and paramilitary leader who led rebels in the 2004 coup Guy Philippe, indicted-for-fraud pro-Martelly activist and Viktwa party leader Odo Lajoie, and Peasant Response party coordinator Fednel Monchery. After Guy Philippes paramilitaries carried out a deadly May 16 attack on the Aux Cayes police station, Gabriel Fortune declared that the commandos had the wrong target. They should have attacked the National Palace, the Prime Ministers office, and the Parliament, he said. Evans Paul used wordplay (composer ou decomposer pour ne pas etre depose) to tell Privert to make a deal with Martellys allies or be deposed. Since then, the Haitian people have endured nights of terror. In February, Guy Philippe said he and his troops were ready for war against anarchists. After violent attacks on several gas stations in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, gunmen have begun targeting telephone companies, banks, and car dealerships. The headquarters of the multinational Digicel, Haitis largest cell phone service provider, was hit by six bullets, while that of its Vietnamese-owned rival NATCOM was hit by 13. Near the phone companies, the new Marriott Hotel in Turgeau was struck by five bullets. Gunmen also fired on SOGEBANK in Delmas 30, as well as the car dealers Behrmann Motors and Automeca near the airport. Nobody was killed or wounded in the attacks. "They are attacking the symbols of foreign investment in Haiti, said Maarten Boute, the chairman of Digicel Haiti. I think people do not realize the effect this will have on the country. It's a negative message sent to other potential foreign investors. We condemn this type of violence and destabilization aimed at creating a climate of terror and instability. This reminds me of the attacks against the service stations. I think there is a certain fringe element that is trying to send a clear message of destabilization." In a press release, Christopher Handal, the president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the West Department (CCI West), also condemned the shootings on the night of Jun. 23. "These heinous acts against civilians and investors that create thousands of jobs came just weeks after similar acts against gas stations and even state institutions, he wrote. No society can evolve in such a context of instability and anxiety. Only a calm social climate is likely to lead to stability and promote the return of direct investment to create jobs, reduce social inequality, and recover the fullness of national independence. The ICC West urges the authorities to take the necessary measures to identify and punish the perpetrators with the full force of the law." The American Chamber of Commerce in Haiti (AMCHAM), which works closely with the U.S. Embassy, also condemned the attacks. "These coordinated attacks clearly have the goal of discouraging Haitian and foreign investment, while throwing the general population into a state of fear and despair. While it is clear that the political situation creates rivalries and polarizes our society, these gratuitous and cowardly acts only reduce to tatters a private sector which is already in trouble, which is trying its best to play its role in the countrys economic and social development. Also, AMCHAM imperatively and urgently asks that the authorities take all necessary steps to identify the perpetrators of these senseless acts and bring them to justice." The question we must ask is this. Was it not the private sector and its international allies, whose objective is only to maximize profit through exploitation, which brought overwhelming support to the Martelly regime during its five years in power? Now, Martellys partisans and allies are using violence to destabilize the country. They are all responsible for what is happening in Haiti, including much of the media. The Presidency also denounced the acts of terror and destabilization. These criminal acts designed to intimidate the population and threaten the private sector are totally unacceptable, it said. The authors, co-authors and accomplices will be apprehended, prosecuted and punished to the full extent of the law. The Presidency instructed the government and the Haitian National Police (PNH) to take all necessary measures and mobilize all means at their disposal to ensure the safety of lives and property and the well-being of the population. In their Machiavellian destabilization, the right-wing death-squads have not spared foreigners who have come to Haiti during the summer holidays. On the evening of Jun. 23, gunmen seriously wounded Bhumi Patel, a young American student, in the chest and hand as he was leaving a restaurant with friends in Petionville, in the vicinity of Place Boyer. He was one of eight medical students from Tulane University in Louisiana. They had come to Haiti as part of a health program focused on tropical medicine, and maternal and child health. Patel was flown for medical treatment to Miami. After this attack, all the other students in the Tulane program had to immediately leave the country. The next day, Jun. 24, gunmen fatally shot Swedish tourist Johan Noren as he and his wife were returning to their hotel from missing a bus in Petionville. Norens wife was badly beaten by the bandits, said Sweden's consul general in Haiti, Gregoire Fouchard. Earlier on Jun. 24, three gunmen on motorcycles attacked two Digicel employees who were going to a bank on Rue Vulmenay in Port-au-Prince. One of the victims, Pierre Yves Elie, who was driving the vehicle, died within hours of being taken to the Saint Joseph hospital, and his passenger, Stephanie Lafortune, was seriously wounded. That same afternoon, gunmen in La Saline shot to death an employee of the General Administration of Customs by the name of Lindor when he tried to rescue a friend being attacked by the thugs. The next day, Jun. 25, gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire on the crowded Rue Oswald Durand in downtown Port-au-Prince, wounding at least 18 people. As we go to press, senators and deputies, convened in a National Assembly, are in closed-door negotiations about the fate of Priverts presidency. Martellys parliamentary allies are waging a parallel, tandem campaign with the gunmen in the street. For a third time , they are trying to block a resolution confirming Priverts mandate until Feb. 7, 2017, and hence derail new elections scheduled for Oct. 9. However, Privert clearly has the support of the majority of the Haitian people, which means that the right-wing destabilization campaign will continue to be denounced and countered by a massive popular mobilization. Haiti - Elections : The activities at CEP Confirmation of political parties for the third of the Senate Pending the publication of the detailed list, the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) confirms that at the end of registration (Tuesday, June 28 at midnight) 60 parties and alliances of political parties have registered and confirmed their participation in the poll of 9 October 2016 for the renewal of the third of the Senate (10 senators). As for the Senate candidates, registration will begin July 7 and will end August 14, 2016. Models of ballots, presidential election The models are available for verification to the CEP by the 27 presidential candidates. Recall that the verification period ends tomorrow, Friday 1 July. After the validation of the models, the CEP will launch a tender for the printing of ballots. 3 communes under investigation Administrative investigations by two commissions of three members each are underway to determine the veracity of complaints against three cartelsof communes : Croix-des-Bouquets, Chardonnieres and Lascahobas to validate or not the results of judgments by the Electoral Office of National Litigation (BECN). Meetings with electoral observation organizations On Tuesday, the CEP, as part of calendar and its general activities, met with ectoral observation organizations. It discussed with these organizations, the issue of observer deployment strategy, polling day. In this sense, new provisions for greater citizen participation in the upcoming elections, have been adopted. he Council must also meet this week, political parties around the deployment of representatives. Among the sectors included in the Council's agenda for this series of meetings are: religious actors, feminist organizations, including the question of the 30% quota with the aim of a great citizen mobilization. Date of closure of the electoral registry The CEP recall that the electoral registration will remain open until 12 July 2016. All citizens aged 18 years, who do not yet hold the National Identification Card (CIN), wishing to vote in the next election should request their card at the National Identification Office (ONI) before that date. HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : The Core Group deplores the inability of Parliament In a note, Sandra Honore, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the other members of the "Core Group" (the Ambassadors of Brazil, Canada, France, Spain, the United States of America and the European Union, and the Special Representative of the Organization of American States) "deplore the inability of the Parliament, during the session of the National Assembly on June 28, to exercise its responsibility in keeping with Article 7 of the 5 February Accord. The 'Core Group' urges all Parliamentarians to resume the session of the National Assembly, without further delay in order to put an end to the political uncertainty prevailing since 14 June and to ensure the pursuit of the electoral process. The Core Group appeals to all the political actors to contribute to creating conditions conducive to these goals." Let's recall that the Agreement of February 5 was intended to ensure institutional continuity at the end of the mandate of President Martelly and in the absence of a new President elected on that date. The appointment of the provisional President, Jocerlerme Privert, was held on February 14, 2016. Article 7 of the agreement stipulates that the mandate of the provisional President is up to 120 days (under the Constitution) from the date of installation https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-16533-haiti-politic-the-details-of-the-agreement-from-a-to-z.html Mid-June, the "Core Group" was concerned about the lack of measures taken to ensure institutional continuity beyond June 13, at the end of the 120-days period and asked the Haitian National Assembly to reach a solution that avoids an institutional vacuum https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17751-haiti-diplomacy-the-core-group-concerned-about-the-institutional-vacuum.html See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17759-haiti-politic-political-uncertainty-in-haiti-un-concerned.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Health : Partial reopening of maternity Isaie Jeanty Wednesday at a press conference Dr. Gabriel Timothee, the Director General of the Ministry of Health announced the reopening of maternity (only prenatal and gynecological services) of the Hospital Isaie Jeanty-Leon Audain of Chancerelles paralyzed by resident doctors strike for over three months (28 March 2016), as 12 other public hospitals throughout the country. Dr. Timothee thanked private hospitals that hosted patients during the closure of the hospital and the adoption of measures to resolve this crisis in particular a sharp increase in fees to medical residents and other benefits "There is a salary increase of staff working in the health system," said Dr. Gabriel Timothee stating that "residents I will receive 14,000 gourdes Residents II, 15,000 gourdes Residents III, 16,000 gourdes an Resident IV 17,000 gourdes." If some maternity services will resume, medical residents intend to continue their strike until satisfaction of their claims. Dr. Datus Francito, Head of residents explained "We are involved in a crisis for three months. 13 hospitals are closed. It would be indecent to open the hospital of the maternity Isaie Jeanty, without a solution involving all other striking structures [...] We need all the hospitals open simultaneously [...]" Regarding the significant increase in fees for residents, Dr. Datus Francito estimated this proposal is unacceptable while the resident doctors are demanding 80,000 gourdes monthly instead of 7,000 they receive for their expenses. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17361-haiti-health-irresponsible-strike-in-hospitals.html See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17856-haiti-health-deterioration-of-the-crisis-in-the-hospital-sector.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17775-icihaiti-health-youth-government-raises-its-voice.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17588-haiti-health-strike-amhe-deplores-the-lack-of-emergency-cell.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17551-icihaiti-flash-incompetence-unconcern-and-negligence-of-the-authorities.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17539-haiti-flash-denial-about-the-delivery-of-medicines-expired-at-hueh.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17531-haiti-flash-strike-a-3-year-old-girl-died-for-lack-of-care.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17435-icihaiti-flash-delivery-of-medicines-inputs-and-materials-to-the-hueh.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17381-icihaiti-health-strike-in-public-hospitals-paho-who-reactions.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17402-icihaiti-health-sit-in-of-dissatisfied-citizens-front-hueh.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-17361-haiti-health-irresponsible-strike-in-hospitals.html SL/ HaitiLibre The Rescue Paw Foundation will have an adoption event at Herrick Park on Sunday, October 23rd. The event is sponsored by London Jewelers and will be an all out dog lover's dream, but it is also going to be fun... Published on 2016/06/30 | Source The thriller "Train to Busan" has been sold in 156 countries around the globe. Advertisement Since its screening at the Cannes Film Festival in May, investors from countries including Canada, China, France and the U.S. have snapped up the theatrical rights for the film. Global pre-sales of the movie have so far grossed over US$2.5 million. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, the film portrays a train ride with a group of zombies that carry a deadly virus. "Train to Busan" will go on release here on July 20, and in the U.S. in July and in France in August. Published on 2016/06/30 | Source On the episode 4 of SBS Wednesday & Thursday drama, "Wanted", Jeong Hye-in (Kim Ah-joong) was given the second mission to complete. The request was to uncover that Ha Dong-min (Son Jong-hak), who used to be Hyeon-woo's physician, was a murderer. Advertisement While carrying out the mission, Professor Kim Woo-jin (Jung Wook-I), who was a domestic violence offender, was murdered and a broadcasting jockey, Lee Ji-eun was arrested as an accomplice. Jeong Hye-in knelt down in front of Lee Ji-eun and begged her to save Hyeon-woo's life. Lee Ji-eun whispered something into Jeong Hye-in's ear. And Jeong Hye-in and Cha Seung-in (Ji Hyun-woo) rushed to the place where the murderer was. Cha Seung-in chased a car driven by a man who looked like the criminal. Jeong Hye-in found a dead body of a woman in a bag. The woman was identified as a nurse and it was assumed that she must have been killed by Ha Dong-min. Watch on Viki Woman suffers severe burns after Malaysia petrol station mobile phone explosion According to The Star Online, a woman suffered severe burns when her mobile phone caused an explosion as she was talking on it inside her car at a petrol station in Setapak, Malaysia. A City Fire and Rescue Department spokesman said the victim suffered 60% burns and that the cause of the explosion was her use of her mobile phone while fuelling her car. The spokesman said the problem was that the woman had closed her car door while sitting inside the car to answer the phone, and that fumes had built up inside the car. He urged the public to be cautious and refrain from using their mobile phones when refuelling their vehicles. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital. culation over a decision by Optus to offshore its HR and finance-accounting back office functions has opened the debate on the future of HR professionals and their use of technology.If it goes ahead, the Optus move will see a number of HR and accounting functions outsourced to external firms as well as having some of the human functions sent offshore.Optus continually reviews its operations to ensure it has the right organisational structure in place to achieve its goals" an Optus spokesperson told HC Online."We are currently reviewing our back office HR and finance operations to identify potential activities that could be outsourced over the next 12 months. We are also looking at ways that we can enhance our finance and HR functions through better analytics, systems and technology to evolve service delivery across our business. While we are talking to a number of parties, we have not finalised arrangements with any vendors.""Specific roles which may be affected have not yet been identified but we will work with employees who may be affected by these changes.But reaction to the move questions the HR role itself. Rohit Sharma, director of Mindfields, told the Australian Financial Review he was surprised Optus was outsourcing in the traditional way when there are now automation options available to get the HR job done more efficiently, onshore and in-house."Conventional offshoring is fast becoming obsolete due to the maturity and falling costs of automation" Rohit SharmaSharma is talking about RPA robotic process automation. Firms such as Mindfields are showing large organisations how to automate rule-based non-judgmental processes across back office operations, including HR support operations such as payroll administration, helpdesk support and customer service, conventionally done by people. ANZ Banking Group is already testing RPA across some back office functions normally performed by people."Conventional offshoring is fast becoming obsolete due to the maturity and falling costs of automation," said Sharma. "We have also brought some processes back to onshore, as there is no longer a business case for offshoring and to losing ownership or control of these processes."The shake-up in the Optus HR function isnt only about outsourcing, offshoring and robotics. Optus is also pursuing another trend in HR: data analytics. Optus is seeking a more efficient way of deriving insights from its HR data via a new analytics system. The following information is provided by local law enforcement agencies. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Compiled by Jessica Isaacs The following were provided by the Watauga County Sheriffs Office. June 14 ARREST: A male suspect, 38, of 11 Tater Hill Estates Drive Apt. 3 in Boone, was charged with felony fugitive from justice. Secured bond: $15,000. Trial date: July 15. June 16 ARREST: A male suspect, 19, of 1962 Redberry Lane in Conover, was charged with OFA-FTA. June 17 ARREST: A male suspect, 46, of 7612 Old U.S. Highway 421 in Deep Gap, was charged with all traffic/DWLR. Secured bond: $1,000. Trial date: Aug. 1. June 19 ARREST: A male suspect, 34, of 3451 U.S. Highway 321 in Boone, was charged with assault on a female and criminal damage to property. Trial date: Aug. 1. June 20 ARREST: A male suspect, 56, of 209 Old Hatch Lane in Boone, was charged with OFA/FTA. June 21 INCIDENT: Vandalism and larceny were reported at 5030 U.S. Highway 321 S in Blowing Rock. INCIDENT: Burglary forcible entry and motor vehicle theft recreational vehicle were reported on Jakes Mountain Road in Boone. INCIDENT: Vandalism was reported at 5186 N.C. Highway 194 N in Boone. INCIDENT: Simple physical assault was reported at 526 Jones Drive in Boone. INCIDENT: Shoplifting was reported at the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. ARREST: A male suspect, 39, of 350 Greenwood Valley Drive in Boone, was charged with OFA for FTA on 90-96 review. Secured bond: $1,000. Trial date: Aug. 8. June 22 INCIDENT: Possession of marijuana paraphernalia was reported at U.S. Highway 421 and Brown Farm Road in Boone. INCIDENT: Calls for service were reported at 11010 N.C. Highway 105 S in Banner Elk. INCIDENT: Calls for service were reported at 995 Snyder Branch Road in Todd. ARREST: A male suspect, 25, of 4725 Elk Creek Road in Deep Gap, was charged with felony larceny, conspiracy to commit felony larceny and misdemeanor worthless check criminal summons. Secured bond: $10,000. Trial date: Aug. 1. ARREST: A male suspect, 35, of 331 Green Briar Road in Boone, was charged with DWLR. Secured bond: $1,000. Trial date: July 7. June 23 INCIDENT: Drug violations were reported during a traffic stop near Hamptons Funeral Home. INCIDENT: Larceny was reported at 202 Ellas Way in Zionville. INCIDENT: Resist/obstruct/delay a government official, DWLR and fictitious registration were reported at Tater Hill Road and Green Acres Drive in Zionville. ARREST: A male suspect, 29, of 112 Shadow Mountain Road in Roan Mountain, Tennessee, was charged with felony breaking and entering and larceny after breaking and entering. Secured bond: $20,000. Trial date: Aug. 1. ARREST: A male suspect, 21, of 1516 Winterlocken Drive in Sanford, was charged with FTA. Secured bond: $1,500. Trial date: Aug. 1. ARREST: A male suspect, 29, of 2698 Pisgah Church Road in Lenoir, was charged with cyberstalking, DWLR, expired registration, fictitious registration, two counts of operating motor vehicle with no registration and two counts of injury to real property. Secured bond: $3,000. Trial date: July 26. June 24 INCIDENT: Fraud wire/computer/electronic was reported at 230 Triple T Drive in Boone. INCIDENT: Fraud obtaining money/property by false pretense was reported at 5920 U.S. Highway 221 S in Blowing Rock. INCIDENT: Resisting public officer and possession of marijuana paraphernalia were reported on Bub Teems Road. INCIDENT: Drug violations and possessing/concealing weapons were reported in the parking lot at Bojangles on U.S. Highway 321 S. INCIDENT: Calls for service were reported at 392 Tweetsie Trail in Banner Elk. ARREST: A female suspect, 40, of 2894 Old U.S. Highway 421 in Boone, was charged with felony forgery of endorsement. Secured bond: $3,000. Trial date: Aug. 3. June 25 INCIDENT: Vandalism was reported at 110 Eggers Lane in Boone. INCIDENT: Drug violations were reported at 12000 U.S. Highway 421 N in Zionville. ARREST: A male suspect, 25, of Vanderpool Campground Lot 15 in Vilas, was charged with assault on a female and communicating threats. Trial date: Aug. 3. ARREST: A female suspect, 41, of 691 Sherwood Road in Vilas, was charged with parole and probation violations, resisting public officer and possession of marijuana paraphernalia. Secured bond: $2,500. Trial date: Aug. 12. ARREST: A male suspect, 20, of 4800 Greenshadow Court in Fuquay Varina, was charged with drug violations and possessing/concealing weapons. Secured bond: $750. Trial date: Aug. 1. June 26 INCIDENT: Larceny from buildings and breaking and entering were reported at 108 Angelia Court in Boone. INCIDENT: Robbery was reported at 300 Bluebird Lane in Boone. INCIDENT: Larceny was reported at 142 Blueberry Lane in Vilas. June 27 INCIDENT: Assault on a female was reported at 268 Rocky Mountain Lane in Boone. INCIDENT: Domestic dispute and simple assault were reported at 4358 N.C. Highway 105 S in Boone. ARREST: A male suspect, 20, of 277 Rabbit Run Road in Boone, was charged with felony PWIMSD schedule I controlled substance, PWIMSSD schedule VI controlled substance, maintain a dwelling/place for controlled substance and misdemeanor possess marijuana paraphernalia. Secured bond: $10,000. Trial date: Aug. 1. ARREST: A male suspect, 19, of 6230 Hollow Springs Circle in Boomer, was charged with FTA larceny. Secured bond: 4550. Trial date: Aug. 3. ARREST: A male suspect, 29, of 646 Valle Meadow Trail in Sugar Grove, was charged with OFA/FTA speeding. Secured bond: $500. Trial date: Aug. 1. ARREST: A male suspect, 28, of 586 Will Isaacs Road in Zionville, was charged with assault on a female and injury to personal property. Trial date: Aug. 1. ARREST: A male suspect, 24, of 3525 Piney Road in Morganton, was charged with OFA/FTA resisting a public officer. Secured bond: $2,000. Trial date: June 29. ARREST: A male suspect, 43, of 268 Rocky Mountain Lane in Boone, was charged with assault on a female. Trial date: Aug. 9. We're a family of seven living in Georgia where Andrew's working as a professor at GSU. You can read more about us here The Government has yet to present a detailed account of how freedom of choice will be funded and realised. You cannot keep the public in the dark on such a notable change, she says in a press release. Aino-Kaisa Pekonen, the chairperson of the Left Alliance Parliamentary Group, has reprimanded the Government for its continuing failure to present a detailed account of how freedom of choice will be realised after the reform of health care and social welfare services. Juha Rehula (Centre), the Minister of Family Affairs and Social Services, revealed in a press conference yesterday that the preliminary drafts of the legislative changes to be implemented as part of the comprehensive reform amount to a total of 600 pages. The documents, a total of 18 PDF files, can be accessed via the website of the Finnish Government. The legislative changes are to serve as a basis for a reform that will establish 18 autonomous provinces in Finland. The provinces are to be made responsible for organising public health care and social welfare services, as well as a number of other services, starting on 1 January 2019. Pekonen writes that she is particularly concerned that the reform will markedly increase health care and social welfare service fees. Ordinary people will end up paying for this reform in the form of health centre fees, she predicts. Aleksi Teivainen HT Photo: Antti Aimo-Koivisto Lehtikuva Source: Uusi Suomi Workers race to finish Health Sciences Center Workers don't knock off at 5 at the Health Sciences Center. Hundreds of workers are on site to finish construction of the building in time for classes in August. Workers are racing to finish the $30 million Health Sciences Center in time for the arrival of Blue Ridge Community College students in less than five weeks. Ive never seen a project that had such an army of workers on it around the clock, Dr. Bill Medina, the chairman of the Pardee Hospital Board of Directors, said during the regular board meeting on Wednesday. Medina drove by around 6 oclock Tuesday evening and saw construction workers working inside and out. I drove by again about 10 till 11 and they had a big spotlight and a smaller army of people still working on the concrete steps. A joint project of the city of Hendersonville, Henderson County, Pardee, BRCC and Wingate University, the building will house two floors of classrooms plus Pardee's new cancer treatment center. Chief Administrative Officer Johnna Reed told the hospital governing board the community college and Wingate will occupy the building in the coming weeks. When Pardee takes occupancy in October it will install a linear accelerator, a device that uses targeted high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells. An open house is planned for November. Pardees Comprehensive Cancer Center, occupying the ground floor of the 100,000-square foot center, will begin seeing patients on Dec. 5, Reed said. Reed told the board that general contractor Vannoy & Sons Construction is on schedule to finish the work by the time BRCCs fall semester opens on Aug. 1. Wingates school year opens two weeks later. In the next 30 days teachers will be moving their boxes in, moving their furniture in, getting their classes set up, Reed said. Youll see a heightened amount of activity in that cancer center. Responding to a frequently asked question about parking, she said the hospital would provide 456 spaces 79 more than the code requirement based on the uses in the three-story building. We anticipate well have plenty of parking space, she said. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. The founder of suicide prevention charity Console ran up 128,169 on credit cards belonging to a nun, the Herald can reveal. Between 2012 and 2014, Paul Kelly used two credit cards assigned to a Sister Margaret Joyce DC - a former employee of the suicide charity, who had left the organisation at least six years previously. During this time 128,169 was spent using these credit cards, including cash withdrawals equalling 28,785. According to a HSE audit carried out in 2015, "inconsistent, vague and inaccurate information" was provided regarding the identity of the person named on these credit cards used by Mr Kelly. Sr Joyce's order, the Daughters of Charity, told the Herald it was "imperative that this matter be brought to the urgent attention of the gardai". It is understood that Sr Joyce left Console in 2010 after working in the group's centre on the Navan Road in north Dublin, and is in no way implicated in the alleged financial irregularities that are dogging Mr Kelly, his wife Patricia and their son Tim following their resignation from the charity's board. Following revelations by the RTE's Investigates Team, the three individuals are accused of running up credit card bills of almost 500,000 between 2012 and 2014. It's claimed they used charity credit cards to pay for groceries, designer clothes and foreign trips. During this period - in August 2013 - President Michael D Higgins was named as patron of the bereavement charity. From 2012 to 2014, Mr Kelly and his wife received significant payments and benefits from Console. He was paid 218,586, and given a 2009 Mercedes CLS and four credit cards. His wife received 67,149, plus a fully-expensed 2010 Audi Q5. Yesterday, the chairman of the Dail's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) called an emergency meeting with the Health Service Executive (HSE) as the fallout from the scandal continued. Lavish Fianna Fail TD Sean Fleming told the Herald the PAC will meet with the HSE next week. The issue of lavish spending by the charity's chief executive and his wife and son was raised for a second day in the Dail. Minister for State Helen McEntee said all funding had been stopped pending investigations, adding the matter was now with An Garda Siochana and the regulator. Despite these investigations, the PAC has weighed into the saga. The spending watchdog yesterday wrote to the HSE requesting a copy of the internal audit report. Mr Fleming, the committee chairman, is also seeking the service level agreements between the HSE and Console. "I am calling the HSE into a meeting with the PAC in early July," the Laois TD said. "What I would emphasise, however, is that it is important the good work of Console must continue. "The damage done by the latest revelations must also be brought to a quick conclusion," he added. Comfort Last night, the president of the Irish Association Of Suicidology Dan Neville said while he was disappointed in the Console revelations, he wasn't surprised. "We had some concerns about [Paul Kelly] four years ago, though not in regard to the operation of Console, but we didn't have much evidence "With the HSE prepared to substantially front him, I suppose we took some comfort in that and assumed its systems would ensure, given the level of funding involved, that every cent would be properly accounted for. "Given these concerns, and his well documented past, I always felt that something [like this] might happen with Kelly in charge." A Dublin glamour model has been given a two-month suspended sentence for jumping on her ex-boyfriend's new partner and biting and scratching her. Bridget Byrne (26) - who works under the name of Ava Van Rose - appeared in Dublin District Court yesterday to have her case finalised. Garda Gerard Clifford told Judge John Cheatle that Byrne has a child with Helen Guinan's partner. There had been a row over their arrangements for the child to be collected. Gda Clifford, of Ronanstown Garda Station, said mother-of-three Byrne, who has no prior criminal convictions, turned up at Ms Guinan's home. Gda Clifford said that when the door was opened Byrne "jumped on Helen Guinan and put her fingers in her eyes, she was biting her and scratching her face". A medical report was handed in and Gda Clifford agreed with the defence that the injuries were superficial and that it was a minor assault. Byrne - who now has an address at An Luasan, Ballybrit, Co Galway but is from Clondalkin - had earlier pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Helen Guinan at a house at Wheatfield Avenue in Clondalkin, in Dublin, on October 20, 2013. Fear The judge noted from a victim-impact statement that Ms Guinan now lives "in constant fear" and after the assault the defendant had made threats to her. The court heard there have been ongoing issues which both women have reported to gardai. Defence counsel Anna Bazarchina said this related to phone calls and that Byrne has not been involved in any further violence. Pleading for leniency, she asked the judge to note that her client is remorseful and her guilty plea spared the victim from facing cross-examination. She said a conviction could leave her client jobless, adding that Byrne is suffering from depression. A medical report was also handed in to the judge. The judge also noted that a favourable pre-sentence report on her had been furnished and she had engaged with the Probation Service in relation to employment and training. The model - who also starred in the short-lived reality show, Infectious - had initially indicated she would contest the case on the grounds that she acted in self defence. However, she admitted the offence. A trial date has been set in the case against two sons of the late billionaire hotel boss Jim Mansfield, who are accused of possession of ammunition at their homes. Jim Mansfield Jr (49) and Patrick James (PJ) Mansfield (38) are both pleading not guilty to the charges against them. Judge Marie Keane adjourned their cases to November 21 for hearing at Dublin District Court. She also ordered disclosure by the prosecution of additional garda statements within 21 days. Jim Mansfield Jr was charged with having 180 rounds of .22 Walther ammunition without a firearms licence at his home at Tassaggart House in Saggart on January 29, 2015. Two further charges of possession of a Fabarm pump-action shotgun and 19 rounds of 12-gauge shotgun cartridges without a certificate were previously struck out. His brother PJ Mansfield is accused of possession of 1,252 rounds of Walther ammunition without a firearms licence at his former home at Coldwater Lakes in Saggart. The accused - who did not address the court - are sons of Jim Mansfield Snr, who passed away in January 2014. He was the businessman behind the Citywest Hotel, Weston Airport and a number of other high-profile ventures. Several of these other businesses collapsed in the recession. Yesterday, defence barrister Tony McGillicuddy said the trial before the non-jury district court would take up to two days. He asked the judge to set a date for mention of the case to confirm it was going ahead "and deal with any ancillary matters that may arise". Warrant He said after examining disclosure documents, it appeared there were further statements made by a garda. Judge Keane adjourned the cases to November 21 for hearing. She set a mention date of October 7 and excused the defendants from attending on that date. Tears of joy and relief flowed freely as missing woman Karen Scott was reunited with her mother. After six days of deepening anxiety and fearing the worst, her exhausted mother Kathleen kissed and hugged her and said: "I'll be able to sleep tonight and I mightn't wake up for a month." Karen (44), who has Down syndrome and special needs, went missing from her home in Barnmore Grove in Finglas, last Friday. A huge search operation - involving gardai, more then 100 friends and neighbours and Civil Defence personnel - came to a happy end when Karen was found on a bus on O'Connell Street yesterday. A man saw her on the No 40 and called gardai, who quickly arrived. "I got a call from the gardai in Store Street who told me: 'We have her'," said Kathleen. "I told them: 'Don't let her go'." Kiss Gardai drove Karen home where her relieved mother was waiting. "I gave her a big hug and a kiss. Then she asked for a cup of tea and I thought: 'That's my baby'," said Kathleen. "I thought I'd never see her again. I prayed every night for her. I'm over the moon. I'm going to have a rest for a month. "I want to thank everybody who helped to look for her. I can't get over that there were so many good people helping to look for her. I'm so grateful to them all." Volunteer search coordinator Robert Burke (35) said: "Everyone is very relieved that Karen is back home. There's plenty of tears of relief. We were told she was found on a bus in O'Connell Street. "It was a great effort by the community, and by the Dublin Missing Persons Group, the gardai and the Civil Defence. "Everyone's exhausted, but it's a good result. She's back. She didn't have her suitcase, but she's back." Beverley Gannon, who managed the volunteers at the search base in Finglas youth club The Den, said: "We're so happy. We're in Disneyland and it's like riding the teacups and we're spinning, absolutely spinning." Beverley said she was thrilled when fellow searcher Caroline Aaron telephoned her with the good news. "After we got the call that she was found, we still had to sit at The Den and ring the 105 volunteers we had ready to go out looking," she said. "We already had 42 people out since half-past-eight. Delighted "The fact that we had another 105 people ready to go, that's the people of Finglas for you. Say what you like about Finglas, but when the going gets tough, the tough come running to help. Amazing. "We're the Finglas Volunteer Missing Person Search Group. We're delighted. "People were out searching last night. We had a possible sighting at 10pm. From CCTV, we had it confirmed in 40 minutes that it wasn't her." Several volunteers gathered outside the Scott home and cheered when Karen came out to accept a bouquet of flowers from those who had been out searching for her. Neighbour and family friend Tom Carey (67) said: "There are loads of people at Kar-en's home coming to share the relief and joy. Everybody is ecstatic here. "We heard she was found on a bus on O'Connell Street this morning and that the guards were informed. She's back home safe now. "It's been six long days that she was missing. All the people who helped are to be thanked for everything they did, day after day, night after night, searching the streets. "She's safe now and there's a lot of happy people in Finglas." Another friend, Joe Lynch, still wearing the high-visibility vest that searchers wore over the past six days, said: "It's brilliant. When I walked into the house she just wrapped her arms around me. She got her picture taken with her mammy. "All the people got together with their families over the last few days and showed a great community spirit in looking for one of our own. "It's great. When something like this happens, the people of Finglas come out to help. "It's great to see the people of Finglas bonding so well. They came from all over. We made new friends on the search. Downcast "People had been starting to feel very downcast as it was going on for so long. We tried to keep everybody's spirits up and be positive, and it worked out." Joe's sister, Jean, said: "It's absolutely fantastic. We weren't going to stop searching. "We went out very late until 3am or 4am in the morning. It didn't bother us. We would have stayed out longer. As the time went on, it was getting very scary, it was so long. "If anything ever happens in future concerning anyone, we'd know what to do." Gardai in Finglas launched a nationwide appeal for information when Karen went missing. CCTV footage showed Karen walking on Berkeley Road in Phibsboro last Friday. More footage emerged showing her in a pub on Burgh Quay later that night. Karen is a big fan of ballad music and would sometimes go into pubs. The scene of the incident in which three people were hurt. Photo: Arthur Carron A man stabbed a 17-year-old camper in the throat and chest and hit two other teenagers with a log in an unprovoked attack at the Hell Fire Club in the Dublin Mountains, it has been alleged. Michael Corbett (26) said he felt he was going to be attacked and there was a weird air about the place, a court was told. Judge Michael Walsh refused to grant him bail following garda objections when he appeared before Dublin District Court yesterday charged with three counts of assault causing harm. The 17-year-old boy and the other two alleged victims a young man and woman, both aged 18 were treated in Tallaght Hospital and released following the incident on Monday. Serious Father-of-one Mr Corbett, with an address at Woodbine Close, Raheny, was remanded in custody to appear again in court next week. Gda Pauline Glennon said the accused made no reply to the charges after caution at Tallaght Garda Station. She said it was possible further serious charges would be brought against him. Objecting to bail, Gda Glennon cited the seriousness of the allegations. She said the three young people had been camping at the Hell Fire Club at Killakee, Rathfarnham, on Monday. The officer said there was a green area that people camped on. It was alleged that the 17-year-old was stabbed across his throat into his chest and was also assaulted with a log. The other two alleged injured parties were also assaulted with the log and also punched in the face, said Gda Glennon. Mr Corbett was arrested at the scene a few hours later and made certain admissions while in custody. Applying for bail, defence solicitor Tracy Horan said the accused had been totally cooperative throughout his detention and explained the circumstances of what had happened, according to him. In his defence, he felt he was going to be attacked and there was a weird air about the place, said Ms Horan. Gda Glennon replied that the accused had been in the company of the three youths for two hours before the incident and they would say it was completely unprovoked. Ms Horan said Mr Corbett had felt it was a two-way thing and he had restrained the first alleged victim. The lawyer said the knife was not the accuseds but was a camping knife that one of the alleged victims had brought to the mountain. The three, who were strangers to the accused, were treated in hospital before being released on the same night. Gda Glennon said the accused had stated that he saw the knife on the ground while they were collecting wood, picked it up and put it to the first youths chest and it sprung off. The court heard the accused had got a taxi to the mountain. Psychiatric Ms Horan said Mr Corbett had made full admissions that he was in the area. The accused was not working and his son had just had his first birthday. Judge Walsh refused bail and remanded Mr Corbett in custody, to appear in court again next Wednesday. He recommended psychiatric assessment for Mr Corbett at the request of Ms Horan, who said there were very serious underlying psychiatric difficulties. The Hell Fire Club on top of Montpelier Hill in the Dublin Mountains is a popular hiking and camping spot that commands impressive views of the capital. It takes its name from the ruins of an 18th-century hunting lodge that stands at the summit. Whatever EU-UK deal emerges from post-Brexit negotiations - there can be no return of the Border with the North, Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan has insisted. Mr Flanagan was speaking after talks in Belfast with Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers and the North's leaders, Arlene Foster of the DUP, and Martin Ferris of Sinn Fein. A delegation from the power-sharing Belfast administration is due in Dublin on Monday to meet the Taoiseach. But after yesterday's meeting, Mr Flanagan signalled a common approach was emerging to promote Ireland's interests on the upcoming EU-UK negotiations. "All parties agreed on the importance of the common travel arrangement and it's important that we have it, irrespective of whatever happens in the relations between the UK and the European Union," Mr Flanagan said. "Also on the issue of the Border, the fact that there is freedom of movement of people, goods and services like never seen before - it's important that this issue be reflected in the context of the rounds of negotiations," he said. Ms Villiers said the North cannot maintain any kind of special status within the EU after the UK withdraws its membership. Deal She said the EU rules do not permit part of a country remaining within the union. A majority of North voters, 56pc, voted for the Remain side in last Thursday's referendum, despite a Leave win in the entire UK. Both Sinn Fein and the SDLP have said they do not want to be "dragged out of the EU" on the basis of English votes. First Minister Arlene Foster campaigned for a Leave vote, but now wants the best deal. Hancock-area couple sentenced in huge animal cruelty case A Hancock-area couple was sentenced Wednesday in an animal cruelty case that led to massive animal rescue operation in Western Maryland in June 2021. This domain has expired. If you owned this domain, contact your domain registration service provider for further assistance. If you need help identifying your provider, visit https://www.tucowsdomains.com/ The way Aligarh participates in various walks of national life will determine the place of Muslims in Indias national life. The way India conducts itself towards Aligarh will determine largely, the form which our national life will acquire , said Zakir Hussain when he was vice-chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Looking at Hussains reference to the link between AMU and the Muslim community, we should take a look at the history of the institution, which is dotted with controversies and legal complexities. The university came under a malicious attack in 1965 as mullahs were opposed to Muslims going for modern education; it is in trouble again under the NDA government. In January, attorney general Mukul Rohatgi told a Supreme Court bench that it is the stand of the Union of India that AMU is not a minority university. As the executive government at the Centre, we cannot be seen as setting up a minority institution in a secular state. Read | Aligarh Muslim University not a minority institution: Govt tells SC This, as AG Noorani had pointed out, was a reversal of the stand taken by the UPA government. Read | Minority character is a matter of life and death on AMU campus Noorani recalled that in India itself, curiously, whenever it suited the government to do so it never failed to refer to Aligarh with pride as a flourishing Muslim institution. A pamphlet --- Muslims in India ----- published by the ministry of information and broadcasting in 1964 referred to Aligarh as the oldest Muslim educational institution in India. It was founded by the late Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in 1875 as the Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental (MAO) College. It was in 1920 that it formally became a central university after the enactment of the Aligarh Muslim University Act in that year. There is a crucial difference between establishing a university and incorporating or upgrading an existing functional institution to the level of a university. In the Azeez Basha vs Union of India case, the SCs Constitution bench had ruled that AMU was not established by Muslims, but by an Act of Parliament and hence did not merit to be seen in the ambit of Article 30 of the Constitution, which gives the right to minority communities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice. Read | 140 years on, alienation abounds in Aligarh Muslim University The upgrade of MAO College to AMU was a legal requirement. The word Muslim was included in AMU as an acknowledgement that the government of the day accepted the university as an institution of Muslims, established to promote the educational and cultural advancement of Muslims, making it a minority institution. The government must not touch the AMUs minority status. If it changes the status, it would go against Prime Minister Naremdra Modis policy of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. The Aligarh Muslim University and Jamia Millia Islamia are institutions of scientific learning. The government must ensure peaceful functioning of the minority institutions, and use Article 29 and Article 30(1) to grant minority tag to more such institutions. Omar Peerzada is former member, National Monitoring Committee for Minority Education, HRD ministry The views expressed are personal Indias attempt to become a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) through frenetic lobbying over the last two months has not ended well. New Delhi can take comfort from the fact that the group may consider the issue of new members later in the year but some of its assumptions during the lobbying process did not pan out. Judging from the coverage of the Indian media, which often takes its cue from official anticipation, Indias accession to the group was to coincide seamlessly with Prime Minister Narendra Modis travel calendar. First he would persuade the Swiss and the Mexicans to back India and then get the firm public backing of President Barack Obama in Washington to convey to Beijing that it was getting isolated on the issue. Any persuading left to be done would be handled by the PM in Tashkent when he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. It did not work out that way. The US endorsed Indias case but Obama did not lobby the Chinese and the others as actively as his predecessor George W Bush did in 2008 to secure the India-specific waiver. The Swiss changed their minds and other nations objected to Indias membership as well. Chinas opposition to India and its implicit backing of Pakistans entry into the group focused minds on the implications for the NPT as a whole, undermining the consensus in the group that India was trying to build in its favour . Read | Indias NSG attempt was well worth the risk As analysts are now recognising, India seems to have either miscalculated the extent of American influence or its willingness to act on Indias behalf while Obamas presidency was winding down. New Delhi was rushing the NSG to decide on Indias membership because it was conscious that if it did not happen during Obamas time then the process would indefinitely get kicked down the road. But it unfortunately chose to do so when American executive intent and capacity itself were in doubt. Second, India perhaps failed to fully appreciate how Chinas increased assertiveness on the world stage would manifest itself in this issue. Many now profess to be not surprised by Beijings hardline approach; China cannot after all give India a free pass to the nuclear high table especially when New Delhi is openly banding with Washington against it. If policymakers were alert to this all along then what was the reason for the rush, especially when it involved changing the structure of a sensitive nuclear group? It is quite striking that a strong government that is unable to overcome the resistance of its own bureaucracy to dramatically increase the number of Indian diplomats that it sorely needs should be able to expect quick changes to a multilateral forum through merely a high-powered lobbying blitz. If the ministry of external affairs (MEA) objects to this representation and reckons that there was a lot of preparation prior to recent lobbying then it must have a different approach to its public messaging when things are not going as planned. Anti-China rhetoric in the Indian media inspired by narrative nudges progressively worsened in recent weeks. Sure, Beijing brought on a measure of it on itself by declaring its opposition to India but there were ways to handle it than feed the medias appetite. The MEA particularly erred in singling out China for criticism when it pointed to the procedural hurdles persistently raised by one country. Obliquely pointing to Beijing, while obscuring the fact that at least seven other countries (nine, according to Chinas Global Times) blocked consensus, is to make it more difficult for bureaucrats to make amends with Beijing. Read | America is committed to Indias NSG entry, says top US official Some analysts argue that standing up to China is indeed a good thing; they say India needs to send a tough message that it can stand up for its rights in the international system. They might consider the implications of a confrontational approach. Former foreign Secretary Shyam Saran has gently warned that a criteria-based discussion at the NSG that would be applicable to all non-NPT applicants could entail revisiting the terms and conditions of the 2008 India-specific waiver. He has advised that In case such a threat is perceived, it is better to preserve the substantive gains already obtained through the waiver rather than to push hard for membership. NSG membership is useful to India as are close ties with the US but how one goes about policy objectives should not adversely affect Indias other interests or worsen the environment it operates in. The mode of Indias pro-US tilt and its activism on NSG may have buoyed some strategists and Southeast Asian neighbours who look to New Delhi to stand up to China but it will have also hardened Pakistan and Chinas resolve to counter India. While India is confident of handling Pakistani tactics it does not help to have elements of the Chinese party-military apparatus bristling to be a nuisance to India. This is not about appeasing China but about better timing when pushing policy goals, getting our signalling about the US and China right, not worsening an already unfriendly regional environment and being level-headed about both threats and opportunities that Beijing represents. sushil.aaron@hindustantimes.com Read | Can India shape an Asian Century without China? SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Come summer solstice, the city will witness the celebrations of Dia del Espanol (DIA E), which brings the Spanish culture to life. It is to promote Spanish language and speakers that one day in a year is celebrated as Dia E or E Day. We will celebrate this day in collaboration with all the Latin-American Embassies by organising a mela in which we showcase the variety of cultures and traditions linked by a common language, says Jesus Clavero Rodriguez, cultural director, Instituto Cervantes. Moreover the people who attend the event can also learn their first words in Spanish. Spanish language is spoken by more than 500 million people in the world and is the second language in the world in terms of number of speakers, he adds. Read: Every Delhi wall has a story to say The Spanish and Latin American lovers in the city can look forward to a day-long event where cultural programs for all age groups are planned. The opening of the mela in the morning will kick start the day. This will be followed by an exhibition, a poetry-reading and storytelling session, a lucky draw, a guitar recital by Aditya Naugain and a Tango workshop too. In addition there will also be a short film festival by students of Delhi University. The Altar of Wonders and The Widowed Pimp are the two plays which will also be performed as part of the celebrations. The former exposes the nature of the racial and ethnic prejudice in society whereas the latter is the tale of Trampagos, a pimp, who mourns the loss of his best prostitute that marks the loss of his income. Read: The Darkroom Project- A performance that taps into your hidden emotions In the evening, a DJ session of Latin music will provide a befitting climax to these celebrations. CATCH IT LIVE WHAT: DIA E WHERE: Instituto Cervantes, Hanuman Road, Connaught Place WHEN: July 2 TIMINGS: 11am to 6.30pm NEAREST METRO STATION: Rajiv Chowk on Blue Line It is not easy to reach Imaad Shah (29) and Saba Azad (23), the duo that makes up the indie alternative band, Madboy/Mink. We want to meet them, but theyre travelling. We want to get them together on a call, but they cant do it. Theyre celebrities; you know how it is, were told at one point. After four days, we scrap the interview. Then, theres a text saying theyre back on. We have a call scheduled for 4.30pm, which gets pushed twice more. Finally, at 7pm, they manage to get on a phone, together, from Delhi, where theyve just wrapped up a gig at Haus Khas Complex. They say they are genuinely busy: Azad is acting in a web series, Ladies Room, while Shah is preparing for the release of his film, M Cream (opening August 10). It is being touted as Indias first stoner film. The tag annoys Shah, though. Theres more to the film than just cannabis users. It was really difficult getting in touch with you Imaad Shah: I know. Sorry about that. We are in Delhi and it was really hectic. Saba Azad: It was quite a busy day. And Im a bit under the weather. It seems theres more on your plate besides Madboy/Mink. Theres Ladies Room and M Cream... SA: I come from a theatre family. So acting was always part of my life. I was also part of Janam Natya Manch, one of the oldest street theatre groups in Delhi. But acting on the web is new. And the internet is such a fantastic medium, even for our music. You go to places like Nagpur and Bhopal, where you dont think people will know you, and realise that they, in fact, do follow home-grown music. IS: I think the internet has had a positive as well as a negative impact. For instance, for independent musicians, the internet has made the process of releasing music more democratic. SA: The old-school concept of record labels is over. Theres a more direct relationship with the audience. We were surprised to find that people in Greenland, Belgium and Australia listen to our music. IS: Yes, some in Czech Republic too. The internet also leaves no room for censorship IS: Actually, I feel that artists, especially in mainstream media, exercise a lot of self-censorship. Most of them are afraid that the content may not be accepted. So they start censoring their work from the word go. Have you done that too? IS: As a musician, no. But as an actor, in a couple of films, where I had sex scenes, I did feel that someone might decide to hack it, and it would end up affecting the plot. To me, the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) has always seemed like a far-away body. SA: It is supposed to be a certifying body. In recent times, it has become something else. Imaads next, M Cream, is being called a stoner movie. Has it run into trouble with the CBFC? IS: We were scared that it might. But there have only been a couple of minor changes, I hear [it was appproved by Leela Samsons Board in 2014]. And thats good, because the film can now reach a wider audience. Though, Id like to clarify that calling it a stoner film is kind of limiting. SA: Yes, I dont think its right to call it any particular kind of film. Most films stand alone as individual stories. For example, I loved Pineapple Express [2008; it has drugs, action, comedy]. It transcends genres. IS: I think its a universal movie centred on marijuana smoking. The target audience is not restricted to cannabis users. I feel the concept of a stoner film is still being defined and hasnt been explored as much because cannabis is frowned upon strongly. But that attitude is changing. Across the world, people are waking up to the fact that demonising cannabis is pointless. It is ironic that the USA was one of the first countries to ban and demonise the use of cannabis in the 60s. Because now, they are also one of the agents of change. Lets hope we follow suit, because we do what America does, mostly (laughs). SA: Its essential to note that there are other uses of marijuana, that go beyond smoking up. The hemp is extensively used in artificial fibres. IS: On some level, maybe theres also fear that hemp will affect the cotton industry. There has been a long association of drugs and music. Have you guys, while making music, experimented with substance? IS: (Laughs) Well, over the years, weve had different ways of making music. Everybody does it differently. But yes, there are artists who are public proponents of legalising cannabis. And because a couple of people died young due to drug abuse doesnt mean you should generalise. At the end of the day, its a plant. Its organic. With all the film commitments, what happens to Madboy/Mink? SA: Both of us are actors and artists individually. Along with the band, were involved in acting, dance and even film-making. IS: We do plan to work on films together someday. Thats the grand plan. As of now, Madboy/Mink still takes up a lot of our time. We also produce music for films in our individual capacity. Saba sings a lot. I work on the music direction bit. SA: We worked as Madboy/Mink with Dibakar [Banerjee, director, for Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!; 2015]. He allowed us to retain the song [Calcutta Kiss] as it was. IS: When it comes to the band, its all about our creative freedom and sound. Dont miss Madboy/Mink will perform at the Budweiser MADE Stage on July 2, 9pm onward Where: Todi Mill Social, Mathuradas Mill Compound, Lower Parel; Call: 6511 0361 Mental health care in Madhya Pradesh continues to flounder two years after a national policy on the problem was unveiled as insufficient number of psychiatrists and lack of awareness prevent patients from seeking help due to the social stigma. The state with a population of over 70 million has just 15 psychiatric doctors in government hospitals, as opposed to 700 it requires. 6-7% of the states population suffer from some kind of mental health problem Experts say 6-7% of the states population, or around 4.2 million people, suffer from at least some kind of mental health problem in the state, while another 1-2% or 700,000 to 1.4 million people have serious disorders. Yet, lack of awareness often results in misdiagnosis. The World Health Organisation predicts about 20% of Indias population will suffer from some form of mental illness by 2020. The 2011 Census data for eight categories of disabilities, including mental retardation and mental illness, shows the number of people with mental retardation was 77,803, which is 5% of the 1.55 million disabled people in the state, and 39,513 people with mental illness, or 2.5%. There are over a dozen psychiatrists in the government hospitals and roughly 40 to 50 psychiatrists in the private sector, with most of them based in the urban centres, leaving most of the rural areas without any mental healthcare facilities, Dr RN Sahu, secretary of MP Mental Health Authority and professor of psychiatry at Gandhi Medical College and Associated Hospitals Bhopal, said. He added that the shortage of professionals was due to the lack of psychiatry courses in state medical colleges: ...except for the Indore medical college, post graduate courses havent been started in any of other five medical colleges in the state. Even at Indore, two seats were introduced for PG in psychiatry two years ago, he said. There are no courses even for clinical psychology in any of the medical colleges. The National Mental Health Policy unveiled in October 2014 promised fresh funds for modernisation and expansion of mental health care facilities in the country, besides providing universal access to mental healthcare. There should be one psychiatrist for every 100,000 people According to proposed norms, there should be one psychiatrist for every 100,000 people, three clinical psychologists for every 200,000 people, two psychiatric social workers for every 100,000 people, and one psychiatric nurse for every 10 psychiatric beds. However, Dr Sahu said MP has just two psychiatric hospitals Manasik Arogyasala in Gwalior and psychiatric hospital, Indore. I must have sent over two dozen requisitions to the government regarding improving mental healthcare in the state, but not much has been done. District mental healthcare programme started in just two districts The district mental healthcare programme has been started in just two districts Sehore and Chhindwara and preparations are on for launching it in five more districts. But in a state with so many districts (51) it is not enough, especially in the backdrop of severe shortage of psychiatrists, he said. Experts say that a sufficient number of psychiatrists and psychologists in the state would result in a drop in cases of suicide. State crime records bureau data show that 1,227 of the 10,293 people who committed suicide last year in the state were suffering from mental illness. Unable to handle agrarian stress, between 2001 and 2015, 18,687 farmers took their own life. In January, World Psychiatric Association president Prof Dinesh Bhugra told HT that instead of playing down farmer suicides, the central government should seek the help of psychiatrists: If you want a mentally healthy society, a society where farmers dont commit suicide, you have to deal with the issue in a holistic manner. National Health Mission (mental healthcare) deputy director Manish Singh said the health department was working to improve the situation. We are talking with the government for increasing number of seats for PG in psychiatry in medical colleges here. We have also provided basic psychiatric training to 49 doctors and 120 nurses to provide basic treatment to psychiatric patients and identify patients with severe mental illness for referral, he said. Experts suggest More doctors at primary and secondary level ought to be given basic training in psychiatry so that they can identify mental disorders and refer them to the nearest psychiatrists for treatment. Increase seats for post-graduation in psychiatry in the medical colleges MBBS students be taught psychiatry from first year, not just in the last year. More awareness and education needed to end stigma associated with mental disorders Celebrities rarely get enough time to spend with their family members and loved ones because of their hectic schedules. Jacqueline Fernandez is facing a similar situation. She hasnt been able to visit her family in Sri Lanka for months now. A source close to the actor says, First, Jacqueline was busy with the shoot of Housefull 3. Now, she is working on an untitled film with Sidharth Malhotra. Her family often asks her to visit them, but she hasnt had the time to do so. Read: Now Jacqueline Fernandezs Dishoom song is offensive to Sikhs The actor says she plans to travel to Sri Lanka in December. Its been a tough few months. I have been working on different films simultaneously. Im planning to visit my family for Christmas, as thats the only free time I have. It is difficult when you have no family around, and it can get stressful at times. I de-stress when Im with my family. Im looking forward to December, she says. Read: Havent even met anyone from Don team: Jacqueline Fernandez on Don 3 rumours The European Unions top trade official said on Wednesday that she is still aiming to complete negotiations for a sweeping free trade deal with the United States this year, despite Britains vote last week to leave the 28-nation bloc. EU trade commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said her team is pressing ahead with talks over the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and is still negotiating on behalf of Britain as a member state, a condition that will continue for perhaps more than two years as London negotiates an exit. We will do whatever we can to make sure that we make as much progress as possible in the coming month, and, if possible, conclude it before the Obama administration leaves office, Malmstrom said at an Atlantic Council event in Washington. That is still the Plan A and that has not changed even if the (British) referendum is there. Trade experts have said that Britains looming departure from the EU will dash hopes for completing TTIP in the final months of Obamas term, cutting out Europes second-largest economy and diverting attention and political capital to sorting out the UK-EU relationship. But Malmstrom insisted that the TTIP deal would survive the Brexit decision. She met on Tuesday with US trade representative Michael Froman in Washington to make preparations for the 14th round of TTIP negotiations in Brussels starting July 11. There are a lot of uncertainties related to Brexit. We cant answer them now we will have to wait until we see a clearer picture, she said. But for now and for the immediate future, the United Kingdom is a member of the European Union, and we negotiate this on behalf of all 28 members. EU prime ministers and heads of state on Tuesday affirmed that the blocs trade agenda, which includes TTIP and a number of other prospective trade deals, would continue. She said EU negotiators who are British citizens will continue to participate in the talks, adding, They do not work for the UK, they work for the European Union and they will stay. NEW DELHI: Three central government-run hospitals in Delhi Safdarjung, Lady Hardinge and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia started Twitter accounts last week to take forward the Centres Digital India initiative. All three joined twitter on June 21 the International Day of Yoga to update people about new initiatives as well as upcoming programmes and workshops. The dharamshala, which will provide lodging space to the families of patients, will be inaugurated soon. We would be starting a few new courses. The Twitter account will help us in disseminating information about these things directly to the public, said Dr AK Gadhpayle, the medical superintendent of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia hospital. Over the past few weeks, the hospital has posted 11 tweets using its @RMLDelhi account and got 10 likes and 34 followers. The tweets were about Yoga Day celebration at the hospital, newspaper clippings and the inauguration of the AMRIT the affordable medicine and implants store. In addition to regular updates about hospital programmes, Safdarjung hospital plans to update its monthly patient data on Twitter to make the functioning more transparent. We might update unusual cases or interesting cases which come to the hospital for the knowledge of the public at large, said Dr AK Rai, medical superintendent of Safdarjung hospital. The hospital will also take note of any complaints from patients that they receive on their twitter feed. The twitter handle for the hospital is @SJHDelhi which has 15 tweets, 17 followers and 7 likes. The tweets were about the history of the hospital and newspaper clippings where doctors of the hospital have been quoted. The Twitter handle for Lady Hardinge Medical College is @ LHMCDelhi, which has 7 tweets and 16 followers. The hospital has also set-up a Facebook account which says, This is the official FB page for Lady Hardinge Medical College and Hospitals, created by MoHFW as part of social media outreach of the health ministry. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), which is an autonomous institute under the ministry of health and family welfare, had also set-up a twitter account in January 2015. To date, it has 39 tweets only. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON NOIDA: The wife of a Delhi Police constable was allegedly raped and thrashed on Tuesday night by the owner of the company where she works, police said. The complainant was found with injuries in leg and head and bruises all over the body. She claimed that her employer, Raju, raped and thrashed her before throwing her from a moving car at Sector 37 locality on Tuesday night, said VN Singh, station house officer, Sector 39 police station. The police registered a case under sections of rape and other relevant sections of the Indian penal code (IPC) against Raju and sent the victim to the hospital to undergo a medico-legal test. The medical report is yet to be obtained. The accused will be arrested soon. He is a resident of Noida, said Singh. Police said the complainant hails from Malviya Nagar in South Delhi and the accused is an owner of a dairy firm. The victim said that Raju had raped her in April as well at an apartment in Noida and filmed the incident. She said he was threatening to circulate the video clip and asked for sexual favours, the police said. The complainant said Raju had called her near Sector 18 at about 5.45pm on Tuesday. She said she turned down his advances following which the incident happened. The matter is being investigated, said Singh. Business / Economy by Thobekile Zhou Zimbabwe's economic prospects look extremely bright as a string of fast-track growth policies are being implemented,Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa said.Mnangagwa told captains of industry at the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) 2016 congress in Victoria Falls that Zimbabwe is ready for business."Indeed, despite the bad patch that we have gone through, the future looks bright and promising."I therefore exhort all congress delegates to pass on the message that Zimbabwe is ready for business and that as the Government, we are continually assessing our business operations to identify those areas needing urgent surgical therapy to improve our investment climate".Mnangagwa said government will "strive to do everything in our means to be a destination of first choice for capital".Zimbabwe has lagged behind neighbours like Mozambique and Zambia in attracting foreign investment but it is working on improving its investment climate to attract offshore capital. NEW DELHI: The Seventh Pay Commission recommendations, approved by the government on Wednesday, have fanned resentment within the armed forces as some of the key issues raised by them have been not been addressed. Defence minister Manohar Parrikar said he had made some recommendations, some of which were accepted. However, several senior military officers HT spoke to felt that the armed forces had been shortchanged as the pay panel fell short on several counts. The officers said parity with civilian employees had been further diluted by the Seventh Pay Commission. The militarys main grouse is that the parity factor has been diluted by successive pay panel reports. There is discontent within the armed forces over issues such as non-functional upgradation, which entitles government officials to increments even if they are not promoted, and a common pay matrix for the armed forces and other government employees. Issues relating to enhancement of pay in higher ranks through the component of military service pay have also upset the military. Another area of concern relates to hardship and risk allowance extended to soldiers. Serving and retired officers say that bureaucrats serving in places like Guwahati and Leh would draw more allowances than soldiers serving in extreme places such as the Siachen glacier. We are disappointed as our concerns have not been met. We have little hope from anomalies committees set up by the government, going by past experience, a senior officer said on the condition of anonymity. The The gratuity ceiling for defence and combined armed police forces (CAPF) personnel has been raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. Another highlight is the ex gratia amount that is enhanced from Rs 10-20 lakh to Rs 25-45 lakh for different categories. NEW DELHI: The minimum marks required for admission into undergraduate courses at city colleges continued to spiral upwards as Delhi University announced on Wednesday its first list of cut-offs, which remained above 97% for popular courses. The highest cut- off was BCom (Honours) at Ramjas College at 99.25%, up from last years 97.75%. But unlike the past three years, no college declared 100% cut-offs. This year more than 250,000 students applied for the 54,000 seats in 61 colleges with the high cut-offs setting the stage for a frantic admission season. Be it on-campus or off-campus colleges, the cut-off for the BA programme soared. For instance, at Hansraj College the cut-off increased from 90% to 96%. A similar trend was seen at Kirori Mal College, where the minimum percentage of marks required for admission jumped from 91% to 96.5%. At Bharati College, the cut-off for the subject increased to 82% from 80%. The science stream was the best bet for students as cut-offs remained either the same or decreased across colleges. At Hansraj College, the cut-off for the much-sought-after BSc (honours) Computer Science was slashed to 97.25% from 97.75%. At Miranda House, the cut-offs were almost the same as that of last year. In Physics, applicants with a best of three (physics, chemistry and mathematics score) of more than 96.66% will get admission in the first list. But there was no city-wide trend of soaring cut-offs this year as many colleges held onto the benchmark set last year or even brought the cut-off down marginally. Experts asked students to not panic if they didnt get through the first list of cut-offs prepared on the basis of the number of students scoring above 95% marks in the CBSE Class 12 exams as DU will issue five cut-off lists this year. Students who change their streams will face a deduction of 1%-5%, depending on the college. This disadvantage is only for the BA programme and BCom programme. But if a student is choosing to study a subject she did not study in Class 12, the deduction in percentage for honours courses is a game-changing 2.5%. The cut-offs for economics courses in most colleges remained above the 95% bracket. The highest cut-off in the subject was at Ramjas College, at 98.5%, followed by Shri Ram College for Commerce at 98.25%. With its high BCom (honours) cut-off, Ramjas College trumped Shri Ram College for Commerce that declared a 98% cut-off. For the BCom programme, the highest cut-off was at 98.75% at Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College and Ramjas College. The cut- of f for English remained the same as last year across colleges. The highest cutoff was at Sri Guru Tegh Ba had ur Khalsa College at 98.75%. But for subjects such as History (honours) and Political Science (honours) the cut-off plunged at off-campus colleges. But cut-offs for the same courses at popular colleges remained above 95%. For instance History (honours) at Lady Shri Ram College for Women remained the same as last year at 97%. Among humanities courses, Psychology (honours) saw a high cut-off of 98.5% at Lady Shri Ram College for Women. In a few colleges, such as Ramjas College, the science cut-offs saw a major increase in some subject. The cut-off for Chemistry in the college was 98%, two percentage points more than last year. Mathematics is one subject where every college either maintained the same cut-off as last year or decreased it by an average of one percentage point. Experts attributed this to the CBSE Class 12 results in Mathematics that were among the most disappointing in the past five years. Though Sanskrit is the course with the lowest cut-off, the subject saw an increase of a minimum of two percentage points in most colleges. At Janki Devi Memorial College, the subject saw an increase from 47-52%. Hindi also saw a jump in cut-offs this year. The highest cut-off for the subject was at 92% at Hindu College. AHMEDABAD: Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal cancelled on Wednesday his two-day visit to Gujarat after the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accused the states BJP government of browbeating organisers to call off his main event in Surat on July 10. The AAP cried political vendetta, alleging that the Anandiben Patel government put pressure on organisers Surat Vyapari Mandal to cancel the booking of an auditorium at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, where Kejriwal was supposed to speak. The organisers in Surat were threatened by the government. They feared losing business. So they had to cancel the event, state AAP leader Kanu Kalsaria said. That is why the party had to cancel the entire Gujarat tour of Kejriwal. The ruling BJP dismissed the allegation as another publicity stunt of the AAP. It was a two-day tour. Has BJP stopped him from offering prayers at Somnath temple too? They got publicity by announcing the tour and now they are seeking publicity by cancelling it, party spokesperson Bharat Pandya said. The AAP leaders proposed tour was viewed as the partys attempt to test the political pulse in the BJP-stronghold state where polls are due in 2017. The party is trying to woo the states disgruntled Patel community, which has been at loggerheads with the government for reservation in jobs and education. Kejriwal had shared a video on social media in support of Patel quota stir leader Hardik Patel, who is in jail facing sedition charges. The partys Delhi lawmaker Gulab Yadav said cheap political tactics would not deter Kejriwal from visiting Gujarat any time during the next two months. This is nothing but political vendetta. It only shows how much they fear Kejriwal, he said. The Delhi chief minister was to begin his trip from Somnath in Saurashtra, addressing farmers at three places en route. The AAP said the entire trip was called off because the event in the textile city of Surat had to be cancelled. Since the main event got cancelled, there was no point in going ahead with the previous days programmes, Kalsaria said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Lt Governor Najeeb and leader of opposition Vijendra Gupta skipped the Delhi governments Aam Aadmi Iftar Party on Thursday at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium. We invited them all personally. I dont know why they skipped. They will be the best persons to tell why. Must be some personal reason, said Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia when asked about their absence Last year, Jung as well as Pakistans high commissioner Abdul Basit were among the early arrivals at the event hosted by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Recently the Delhi Government and Lt Governor had a standoff over different issues including the water tanker scam, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators accusing Jung of supporting corruption and asked him to file a complaint against himself. Vice-president Hamid Ansari however attended. He stayed for about 10 minutes. Gupta and the other two BJP members in the 70-member assembly also skipped the event. A drunk businessman went on the rampage in south Delhis Panchsheel Enclave on Friday, first ramming his speeding car into a dog and then crushing it. Vikas Maheshwari (55) also allegedly misbehaved with the woman who tried to stop him. Shalini Chaudhary, an animal lover, complained to the police control room and followed it up with a formal complaint. Based on Chaudharys complaint, police arrested Maheshwari on Saturday. Chaudhary told HT, It was 10.30 pm, when this car entered our colony. The driver was drunk and was driving very rash. He first hit the dogs face and after it started crying, the man ran over it, killing it on the spot. He did not even care to stop and after crushing him mercilessly, he sped off. She said she ran behind the car. I even called the locals and guards. The man then stopped at a kiosk to buy cigarettes. That was when I confronted him. Chaudhary alleged that the man could not even straight and started to misbehave. All he could say was it was just a dog. He showed no remorse or repentance and instead started abusing, she said. Kutta hi toh tha. Yeh toh aise he marte hain. Toh kya hua yeh mar gaya, yahi deserve karte hain yeh raste ke kutte. Is mein itna shor kyu macha rahe ho (It was a just a dog. They die like this only. This is what the stray deserve. Why are you creating such a scene?), she quoted the man as saying. She said Maheshwari started shouting when she threatened to report the matter to police. He then sat in his car and zoomed off, she said. I had noted down the cars registration number and had clicked some photographs to be attached with the complaint. The police recorded my statement and traced Maheshwari with the help of the cars registration number, she said. A senior police officer said, We traced him with the help of the cars registration number and arrested him. He was later granted bail. The Supreme Court has effectively put the issue of decriminalising homosexuality on the backburner, at least for the next few months, by referring a petition by LGBT celebrities seeking to legalise gay sex to Chief Justice of India. A bench of justice SA Bobde and justice Ashok Bhushan on Wednesday said the matter was already pending before a constitution bench and it was for the Chief Justice of India TS Thakur to pass appropriate orders. The petition filed by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender celebs--chef Ritu Dalmia, hotelier Aman Nath, dancer NS Johar, journalist Sunil Mehra and business executive Ayesha Kapur--is now likely to be taken up along with a curative petition on the issue that was sent to a constitution bench in February this year. Their petition is important as it is the first time that people affected by Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code have approached the Supreme Court against the colonial-era law. So far, the court was dealing with public interest litigation on the issue. The LGBT celebs have raised the issue of their sexuality and sexual preference contending it is part of their right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. Here are the twists and turns Section 377 has seen: The law Section 377 of the IPC that came into force in 1862 defines unnatural offences. It says, Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and shall also be liable to fine. Delhi HC legalises homosexuality Acting on a petition filed by Naz Foundation, the Delhi high court had in July 2009 decriminalised consensual homosexual acts in private by declaring as unconstitutional a part of Section 377 that criminalises unnatural sex, saying the section denies a gay person a right to full personhood. SC reverses high court order The top court set aside the HCs verdict in December 2013. Upholding the constitutional validity of Section 377, an SC bench headed by justice GS Singhvi (now retired), put the ball in Parliaments court, saying it was for the legislature to take a call on the desirability of the controversial provision. The court also dismissed the review petitions on the issue. SC refuses to modify 2014 order; says lesbians, gays, bisexuals not third gender Curative petitions It was in February this year that the SC decided to hear in open court curative petitions the last legal recourse available to litigants on Section 377 but no progress appears to have been made. The court must realise that these curative petitions offer an opportunity for it to rectify the mistake of re-criminalising homosexuality in the country. The fact that the top court has departed from established practice of not hearing oral submissions on curative petitions is perhaps a judicial acknowledgement of changing social realities on the contentious issue. Generally, judges decide a curative petition after discussing it among themselves through a procedure called hearing by circulation. Members of LGBT community react in Mumbai after the Supreme Court in December 2013 refused to overrule Section 377, a law that holds homsexuality as criminal. . (Satish Bate/ HT file photo) Homosexuality a taboo Homosexuality is considered a taboo in a largely conservative Indian society which appears to be divided on the controversial issue. Freedom loving people, not necessarily belonging to the LGBT community, want homosexuality decriminalised but many still consider it a deviant behaviour and not merely a question of ones sexual orientation or preference. Implications for heterosexuals The case has implications for heterosexuals also, as consensual sexual acts of adults such as oral and anal sex in private are currently treated as unnatural and punishable under Section 377. Emerging political consensus Successive governments have defended the archaic Section 377 which is based on 19th-century Victorian morality. But the intense debate in the society and the media appears to have forced the political class to change its stance. After eluding it for years, political consensus is building on the issue. The BJP which had supported the SCs verdict upholding Section 377 now appears to support the Delhi HC decriminalising consensual homosexual acts in private. When millions of people world over are having alternative sexual preferences, it is too late in the day to propound a view that they should be jailed. The Delhi high courts view appears more acceptable, senior BJP leader and finance minister Arun Jaitley had said in November last year, expressing his personal opinion. Jaitleys view was supported by senior Congress leader P Chidambaram. Even otherwise, Congress has openly supported legalising homosexuality. Aam Admi Party and Communist Party of India-Marxist are also said to be in support of declaring Section 377 unconstitutional. Even RSS has termed sexual preferences a personal matter. I dont think homosexuality should be considered a criminal offence as long as it does not affect the lives of others in society, RSS joint general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale said in March this year. The SC needs to take note of these developments and the emerging socio-political consensus on the issue. Law and morality Those against legalising homosexuality argue that it is against the moral values of the society. What is forbidden in religion need not be prohibited under law. Morality cannot be a ground to restrict the fundamental rights of citizens. A legal wrong is necessarily a moral wrong but vice versa is not correct. A moral wrong becomes a legal wrong only when its consequences are for society and not just the person/s committing it. Constitutional question The real question relates to the constitutional rights of the LGBT community. The 2013 SC verdict criminalising homosexual acts goes against established constitutional principles of personal liberty, equality before law and non-discrimination on the basis of sex or sexual preferences. Presuming that homosexuality is against the prevailing social morality, a perceived larger interest of the society be given precedence over individual liberty and the right to privacy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution? Can the state or society regulate the sexual preference and behaviour of consenting adults in private? The Supreme Court will have to find the right answers to these questions. The role of the state and society is to provide a congenial atmosphere to individuals to make them realise their potential so as to give their best to the society. Obstructing individual freedom and criminalising their intimate moments cannot help to achieve this objective. SC verdict on transgenders In its landmark April 2014 verdict, hailed by gender rights activists, the top court directed the government to declare transgenders a third gender and include them in the OBC quota. Underlining the need to bring them into the mainstream, it said they should have all rights under law, including marriage, adoption, divorce, succession and inheritance. PM Narendra Modi on transgenders In November 2015, Modi had regretted the deplorable condition of transgenders in Indian society and said governments needed to change their outlook. We need to amend and make new laws for transgenders, he said at the foundation day celebration of National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). The NDA government has prepared a draft law recognising the rights of transgenders with a view to ensure they are not discriminated against. All these developments allude to the change in the mindset of the top court and the government. International developments There have been many positive developments in favour of the LGBT community on the international front. In May 2015, Ireland legalised same-sex marriage. Ireland that decriminalised homosexuality in 1993 became the first country to allow same-sex marriage on a national level by popular vote. In June 2015, the US Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriages were legal. Near home, Nepal legalised homosexuality in 2007 and the new Constitution of the country too gives many rights to the LGBT community. France, UK, Canada, United States, Australia and Brazil have decriminalised homosexuality. Other countries like Belgium, Brazil, Canada,France, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal,South Africa, Spain, Sweden and Uruguay allow either same-sex marriage or a civil union. India currently stands with a host of countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Mauritania, Qatar and Pakistan that criminalise homosexuality. On June 30, the United Nations Human Rights Council seeks to establish the first UN Independent Expert on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). Indias stand would be keenly watched. Child abuse and Section 377 Child rights activists criticised the Delhi HC verdict decriminalising homosexuality on the ground that Section 377 was needed to be on the statute book to tackle cases of child abuse. But after the enactment of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012, there is no need to use Section 377 in child sexual abuse cases. POCSO is more child-friendly and much more stringent. SC must draw Lakshman Rekha The SC must draw a Lakshman Rekha for the state, which cannot be allowed to peep into the bedroom of consenting adults on the ground of their preference for unnatural sex. If not declared completely unconstitutional, Section 377 must be at least read down something the Delhi high court did in 2009. The Rajeev Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidhyalaya (RGPV) in Bhopal has warned students of disciplinary action if they raise baseless and meaningless objections while seeking re-evaluation of their exam answer-scripts. The Bhopal-based technical university has come up with such harsh rules as it faced unruly scenes and complaints that often turned out to be unfounded. Parents, students unnecessarily create ruckus for marks The parents and students unnecessarily create ruckus in the university for marks. So we included this disciplinary action to deter students from making unjustified complaints. Not only students, we also included teachers so that they will check copies properly and attentively, RGPV exam controller Mohan Sen said. But students found it a threat more than a rule. A student will raise questions only if he is not satisfied with the evaluation. Many students will not dare make a complaint because of this warning, said an engineering student. Rule would infringe our right to complain, say students Some students said the rule would infringe their right to complain if they noticed any irregularity or fault in the evaluation process after the university uploaded the answer-sheets on their personal online IDs. The answer-scripts were uploaded so that the students could point out mistakes in the marking process. I dont think there is a need to introduce such process which wouldnt provide any benefit to student, said Ankit, a leader of the ABVP. A student could complain if the evaluator of a particular subject failed to give marks for an answer, or if marks on the OMR sheet present on the first page of the answer-sheet and those given inside were different. Students of first to fourth semesters can file complaints for such glitches. The new rules will hold evaluators responsible for faults, meaning teachers may lose their honorarium or get excluded from the evaluation process. We are trying to bring transparency in the system by uploading copies but to avoid invalid objections we put some restrictions, university exam controller Sen said. The Delhi University admission process goes online this year and students have to keep in mind several changes. Aspirants can check the cut-offs from individual college websites or from the university website which will provide a consolidated list of the cut-offs for 61 colleges and 57 courses. Once a student has qualified as per the cut-offs, they need to log in to the DU undergraduate portal and select the course and college in which they have qualified. Read | DU cutoffs: Top 10 tips to guide you through the process Once the selection is made, admission slips with the masthead of the respective college is generated. Students need to get a print out of the slip and visit the college with original documents. Cutoff is the calculation of the best-of-four-subject marks (the four subjects in which a student has performed the best. For humanities courses, including one language in the best-of-four is necessary and the other three subjects have to be academic subjects, not vocational. Only for BA and Bcom programmes, students can include one vocational subject. College authorities will then verify the document and log into the portal and approve admissions. Original certificates will be kept by the colleges. Once a college has approved the admission, students need not stand in queue to pay the fees. They can log in to the UG portal and make the payment. After the declaration of the first cut-off students will be given three days and can take admission between June 30 and July 2. Read | DU first cutoff list: In or out, here is what you should do For morning colleges, admissions will be open between 9am and 1pm and for evening colleges between 4pm and 7pm. After the admission is approved, students can pay fees till 12 pm on July 3. A candidate can take admission only in one course in one college at any given time. In case a student wishes to withdraw/cancel the admission in a course/college, the candidate should approach the institute where the admission is taken. Only after the college cancels the admission of a candidate, the student can take admission in other courses/colleges. Admission fees will be refunded to the candidate as per the university rules. READ | Best of four percentage at DU: Get the calculation right In case a candidate cannot take admission in a given cut-off list, they can be considered for admission in the next cut-off list only on the last date of admission, subject to availability of seats. DU admissions 2016: Find your college, know details on this interactive map SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Aspirants who dont make it to Delhi University in the course or college of their choice need not worry, say university experts. After the first cutoff list is released, hundreds of students are in a fix trying to make sense of the admission list. But teachers say such confusion is not necessary and taking admission in the first list, if a student has made it, is very important. You may not get the course or college of your choice, but not taking admission in the first list and waiting for the second list is a risk not worth taking. All colleges follow a policy where applicants who were eligible but not take admission under the first list in a particular college, will not be given consideration in the second cutoff list unless they have seats left. If an applicant has got admission in a course of her choice but not in a college she wants to study in, the best bet is to take admission in a college where she has met the cut. READ | DU cutoffs: Top 10 tips to guide you through the process In case the applicant makes it to a college of her choice in the second list, she should first go to the college, make sure she is eligible and then withdraw admission from the first college. Course of college? The biggest question on students minds is whether they should take admission based on the college reputation or the course. Counsellors and Delhi University experts have been telling students for several years to pick the course over the college. All colleges in DU follow the same curriculum and teachers are selected based on the same criteria. Picking a course over a college also gives you an opportunity to study something that you are interested in. The only case in which you should choose a college over a course is of you are totally unsure about the course you want to pursue. Read | Delhi University releases first cutoff list, sets tone for tough admission race Correspondence courses In case, a student has not made it anywhere in the first list, there is no need to worry. The colleges will come out with five cut-off lists and with each list, your chances of making it will improve. Applying to the School of Open Learning as a back-up is also a good idea. The application process for the school has not started yet and the admission schedule will be announced soon. The courses on offer are BA (honours) Political Science, English and B Com, BA Programme and BA Programme. Women who have applied in the Non-Collegiate Womens Education Board (NCWEB) should also take admission as soon as they get in. The board holds classes on the weekends and is open only for women who live in the Delhi NCR. Their cut-off will be declared on July 15. Certificate courses Applicants who want to get diplomas in languages or other courses such as Peace and Conflict Resolution can also apply to specific courses in departments and colleges. An applicant will have to go through the prospectus of each college to find out what courses are on offer and what the eligibility is. At St Stephens College, a diploma in languages is possible even if you are not a DU student. At Lady Shri Ram College for Women, one can similarly study Peace and Conflict Resolution. DU admissions 2016 | Find your college, know details on this interactive map The first day of undergraduate admissions at Delhi University colleges on Thursday ended in a nightmare for thousands of students, who complained of slow servers and snags in the official website. Aspirants who cleared the first cut-offs said they had to wait until the afternoon to download the admission slip from the DU website that repeatedly froze under heavy traffic. The slip -- bearing details of the course and college is mandatory for admission but 80% of students didnt know they had to carry the document. The rest struggled for hours. I tried to access the DU website for more than two hours but it wasnt opening. I eventually had to come down to the college for assistance, said Thanglianmang Baite, an aspirant at Motilal Nehru College in south Delhi. A DU official said the technical problem was due to heavy traffic and that the university was monitoring the situation. Read: DU first cutoff list out: Answers to everything you wanted to know We received complaints that the server was slow in the morning. This could have happened as many students logged in and tried to download the form at the same time, said Kirti Ranjan, OSD admission. Admissions at DU are fully online for the first time this year. Outstation students were the worst affected by the glitch as they will be forced to stay on for more days at hotels and guest houses. They should have opened the site last night itself. We have been asked to come back tomorrow. Arranging transport is not possible and we have already spent quite a bit on hotels, said Anuja Agrawal, whose niece is hoping to get admitted to Gargi College. At the Shri Ram College of Commerce in north Delhi, parents and students queued for hours for a turn to print the slip at the institutes computer centre. Through our integrated server with DU, we are helping the students, but there is immense rush, said an official in charge of admission at SRCC. Read: DU releases first cutoff list, sets tone for tough admission race Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Gargi College, Vivekananda College and Sri Venkateswara College also helped students but asked many aspirants to come back on Friday when the rush mounted. We allowed students to use our computer lab as many had come without admission slips said Suman Sharma, LSR principal. The university released its first cut-off list on Wednesday night with 97% the average minimum benchmark for admission into popular undergraduate courses. The sky-high cut-offs set off a busy admission season that is expected to get more frantic when the second cut-offs are released on Sunday night. Admissions under the first list can be taken until July 2. Students were made aware at open houses that they were expected to bring admission slips. The glitch is with the university server and we hope the problem is resolved by tomorrow, said Hemalatha Reddy, principal of Sri Venkateswara College in south Delhi. Panic mounted post noon as the admission process was supposed to close by 1pm and most students had still not managed to download their admission slips. Delhi University Interactive map | Cutoffs, nearest metro, hostel availability The snag was resolved by the evening, making it easier for those seeking admission to the eight evening colleges. For evening colleges, a student could easily access the admission slip from the DU UG portal from 4-7 pm. We are not facing any problem even on the software front everything is smooth, said Prashant Kumar, principal of Sri Aurobindo College (Evening) in south Delhi. (With inputs from Shinjini Ghosh and Gayatri Moodliar) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON News / Health by Sithembile Siziba Harare - Antimicrobials, including antibiotics, antifungal, antimalarial and antiviral drugs, play a very critical role in combating infectious diseases in both human and veterinary medicine. However, in recent years there has been a dramatic increase in resistance to the antimicrobials used against common human and animal infectious illnesses and infections, thereby reducing treatment options, and affecting health systems and economies of nations. In response to the global threat of antimicrobial resistance, a Global Action Plan was endorsed under which, countries are required to develop national action plans on antimicrobial to combat antimicrobial resistance by May 2017.It is in this regard that the Government of Zimbabwe through the Ministry of Agriculture Mechanization and Irrigation Development, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Ministry of Environment and other key stakeholders, working with FAO and supported by the UK Government's Fleming Fund, came together to develop national action plan to fight Antimicrobial Resistance.This plan is based on the "One Health" concept, which has found the health of animals, the health of people, and the viability of ecosystems to be inextricably linked.Zimbabwe becomes one of the first developing countries to start developing a "One Health National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance" with collaboration of the human, agricultural and environmental sectors working together rather than developing parallel plans for each sector. This is important as antimicrobial resistance can spread between humans, animals and through food and the environment.Speaking at a multisectorial workshop held for the development of a One Health National Action Plan for Zimbabwe, the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Mechanization and, Irrigation in charge for Livestock, Paddy Zhanda expressed deep concern about the rise of antimicrobial resistance and its potentially harmful effects on humans and animals. 'This is becoming a cause of great concern, the time to take action against antimicrobial resistance is now," he said.The Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Aldrin Musiiwa spoke at the same workshop and noted that it is estimated that by 2050, antimicrobial resistance will be causing 10 million deaths annually worldwide costing the world US$10 trillion dollars.This three-day workshop provided an opportunity for the different sectors of animal and human health, agriculture, feeds, environment, fisheries, pharmaceuticals and their regulatory bodies to come together to discuss the way forward and to contribute to the national action plan development. The "One Health" National Action Plan on AMR is being developed as part of the Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (WHO, 2015), and is meant to contribute to reducing the threat of antimicrobial resistance across the world.Under the guidance of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) and the World Health Organization (WHO) tripartite partnership, the National Action Plan for Zimbabwe will be finalized in early 2017. Ye phati hui jeans pehen kar ghar se bahar nahiiiiii jaogi! Have you been subjected to similar admonitions from your folks, when you were just trying to be in vogue by slipping into a pair of tattered denims? Well, all owners of distressed denims would nod in affirmation. Recently, actor Rishi Kapoor cracked us up when he took a dig at a high street brands sale, as he posted pictures of ripped jeans and shredded tops that were on display in the store . Buy two get one begging bowl free. Sale at Zaras, the veteran actor posted. Young people in the city say he is not the only one who finds the trend distressing. Buy two get one begging bowl free. Sale at Zara's pic.twitter.com/keoWmlbw70 That's the Spirit (@chintskap) June 27, 2016 Himani Chhabra, a 25-year-old blogger, posted on Facebook recently, Shopping with mom is fun till she shouts from one corner of the store, ye fatti hui jeans nahi leni! and everyone starts staring at you. Anisha Singh, an 18-year-old student, has a similar story to share. My mom doesnt understand that distressed clothing is a big craze in the fashion world. She gets just too shocked every time I attempt wearing tattered clothes. I have no clue how to bridge this generation gap. The older generation, however, dont seem to be in the mood to change their mind. Bhavna Nigam, 45, mother of two teenage kids, says, Youngsters these days do the weirdest of things in the name of fashion. I think ripped denims make you look like a pauper. Kitty Khera, 55, who owns a boutique, agrees, Its a very silly trend. I think soon we are going to see ripped salwar suits and saris as well. A photo posted by indy (@nindy_nd) on Jun 25, 2016 at 1:27am PDT Read: Congress comeback - Sulabh toilet named after Rishi Kapoor The experts take? Designer Rina Dhaka believes that it is to do with the feeling of belonging to a certain period of time, and elders should let young people be. When we are young, we overlook the obvious and we wear what is trendy. As we grow older, we become more cautious. Long ago, I wore my phati hui jeans bought from London to a beach dinner in Thailand. One of my husbands friend remarked , You must give Rina some money to buy good clothes. He was being helpful, thinking I am buying at thrift shops. He had no idea how much I had spent to look so tattered and distressed. So yes, let youngsters wear what they want to, as you would have done the same, says designer Rina Dhaka. Read: Rishi Kapoor slams Congress - Why is everything named after the Gandhis? Designer Rahul Mishra, however, can relate to Rishi Kapoors tweet. I dont think those T-shirts (the ones Kapoor posted) are even wearable. So, dont blindly ape trends, use your brains . These are fads, which often go to extremes. In high fashion internationally, this distressed trend is not even there, he says. Scientists have developed a new way to calculate a persons 10-year risk for heart disease by analysing their blood, a method which has greater precision than identifying traditional risk factors alone. When someone visits their general practitioner, they can get their blood analysed for cholesterol and triglycerides, to get an idea of their risk for cardiovascular disease. With additional information about Body Mass Index (BMI), smoking habits and blood pressure, this can be used to calculate their 10-year risk for cardiovascular disease, according to researchers from Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Read: There are several risk prediction calculators available today. However, the use of risk prediction calculators has declined in the primary care setting because the currently available calculators only explain a modest proportion of the incidence, researchers said. For myocardial infarction, it is estimated that 15-20 per cent of the patients had none of the traditional risk factors and would be classified as low risk, they said. Our study showed that by measuring a combination of five different microRNAs and adding this information to the traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease, we could identify those that were going to experience a myocardial infarction with considerably improved precision, said Anja Bye from NTNU. There have been several attempts during the last years to improve the risk prediction calculators by adding new bio markers. Some calculators add information of an inflammation marker in blood called CRP (C-reactive protein) or a diabetic marker called HbA1c (glycosylated hemoglobin), researchers said. This increases the accuracy of the calculators, but still there is a need for new cardiovascular bio markers that could complement the assessment of traditional risk factors, to identify the individuals at risk with greater precision than today, they said. Read: It was based on this that researchers designed this study to explore the possibility of a new type of bio marker called circulating microRNAs, to predict 10-year risk for myocardial infarction. They included 212 healthy participants (40-70 years) from the Nord-Trondelag Health Study 2 (HUNT2, blood collected in 1996) that either died from myocardial infarction within 10 years or remained healthy at the time of HUNT3 (2006). As many as 179 different microRNAs were quantified in blood samples from these participants. The findings were published in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology. The latest terrorist strike at Instanbuls Ataturk airport would result in a further decline of Indian tourist traffic to Turkey, which has already seen a significant fall this year. Turkey as a destination was really growing well from India through 2014 and 2015. In 2015 we had 130,000 visitors from India to Turkey. That was about a 15% growth over the year before, said Sharat Dhall, President, Yatra.com. Dhall said that since January this year there had been a very significant decline. The destination is already declining at 20% from last year. And now with another unfortunate incident probably it would result in few more bookings dropping furhter.it would probably drop by another 10%, said Dhall. There have been repeated terror attacks in Turkey this year inlcuding in Instanbul and Ankara where foreign tourists have been victims. It hasnt been one-off thing. Such incident, obviously, have a very negative impact on foreign tourist travel and it will take a few months for the momentum to come back, said Rajji Rai, former president of the Travel Agents Association of India. Read: Footage shows Istanbul airport attacker looking for victims People who had been looking at Turkey have put a hold on it. We have consistently been seeing a drop in bookings this year to Turkey and with the current incident, we feel that there will be a further decline from Indian tourists, said Dhall. Indians travelling from Instanbuls Ataturk airport had a close shave on Tuesday night as two flights to India departed two hours before the terror strike that killed 41 people. The attack occurred at around 10 pm Turkish time. Turkish Airlines flights to Delhi and Mumbai departed Istanbul last night as scheduled. Both leave Istanbul at around 8 pm, said an official. No Indian carrier flies to Turkey but Turkish Airlines, the national carrier, has regular flights in and out of India. Read: Istanbul airport bombers were Russian, Uzbek, Kyrgyz: Turkish officials SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON As many as 130 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel aboard an Air India chartered flight had a narrow escape as tyres of the aircraft burst during landing at the international airport here. The incident occurred around 2 pm following which the runway was blocked as a result the air traffic was disrupted. Sources said two tyres of the Air India flight 3821burst while it was landing. The flight was on its way to Srinagar from Jammu. The aircraft was chartered by the CRPF on the Jammu-Srinagar sector. All personnel aboard have been moved out safely from the aircraft, said sources. According to authorities none of the passengers sustained injuries. Airport authorities were trying to clear the runway to resume air traffic. Till reports last came in, the aircraft had been towed away. However, the runway suffered some damage in the process and authorities are working overtime to repair it. We hope that the landing point will be fine by Friday morning, an official said. A one-horned female rhino has been killed in the Orang National Park in Assam. The suspected poachers took away its horn, forest officials said on Thursday. The carcass of a female rhino was recovered on Thursday and the horn was missing, a forest official said. The poachers seem to have killed the rhino on June 27. The forest guards reportedly heard gunshots in the park that day. But a search operation revealed nothing then. This is the 10th one-horned rhino to be killed in Assam since January and the third after a BJP-led government took charge in the state. The poachers killed two rhinos at the Kaziranga National Park earlier this month. One rhino was killed when Forest Minister Pramila Rani Brahma was camping in the park. Although Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal had personally taken up the matter, the poachers appear to be operating with impunity. A hospitals goof-up nearly made a Muslim family in Assam bury the body of an elderly Hindu man instead of a young man who had died of a serious ailment on Wednesday. The resultant anger made the state health department order a probe that revealed an employee took money from the family to hand over the wrong body from the morgue. Imran Ali, 22, died in the ambulance that was bringing him from Dampur village, 30km west of Guwahati, to Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) on Tuesday. Doctors said he died of multi-organ failure. On Wednesday night, the GMCH authorities handed over a shrouded body to Alis relatives, who took it to the idgah in Dampur. But while preparing for the last rites at the burial ground nearby, the villagers found the body was not Alis. They said it belonged to an elderly Hindu man. The villagers informed the local police, who took the body back to GMCH. The GMCH authorities said the body was handed over to the Muslim family only after some members identified it as Alis. One of the identifiers said he was the uncle of the deceased, GMCH principal AK Adhikari said. The faux pas made health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma order a probe on Thursday. Investigation revealed Toufiq Ali, a contractual employee, took Rs 2,000 from the family to give them a body from the morgue. He was sacked. Toufiq told the family getting the body the official way would be expensive and time-consuming. Not willing to waste time, the villagers gave him the money and, without checking the corpse, left the hospital in haste possibly to avoid us, a senior health officer said. GMCH superintendent Babu Bezbaruah said they were making arrangements to send Alis body to his parents. The other body remains unidentified and unclaimed. The police usually dispose of such bodies within 72 hours of their recovery, he said. The GMCH was in the news last month when a three-and-a-half-year old boy contracted HIV after blood transfusion. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Congress president Sonia Gandhis son-in-law Robert Vadra has rubbished allegations of corruption against him, saying he will always be used for political gains. Almost a decade of governments false and baseless accusations on me! They cannot prove anything without proof n there is nothing there to prove ...(sic), he wrote in a post on Facebook on Thursday morning. The remarks came on the day that a report by Justice (retired) SN Dhingra commission is expected on the investigation of certain land licences being granted to some companies, including that of Vadras. The term of the panel also ends on Thursday. I will always be used for political gains, I know ... But I will walk with my head held high as in time and with the truth, which will conquer incorrect perceptions, created! about me, the businessman wrote on the social networking site. Read | Dhingra panel completes probe, to hand over report to Khattar today The one-man panel, which was set up on May 14 last year, was tasked to probe the transfer of land, allegations of private enrichment and ineligibility of beneficiaries. The investigation pertains to grant of development licences to companies including M/s Sky Light Hospitality owned by Robert Vadra in Gurgaons Sector 83. Read | ED issues notice to firm linked with Robert Vadra in Bikaner land case: Sources The report was initially expected within a year. However, with its term being extended to June 30, the panel is likely to submit its report to the Haryana government on Thursday. Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda had written to governor Kaptan Singh Solanki asking for the panel to be scrapped. Justice Dhingra had questioned Hooda who did not appear and sent his counsels to the court with documents. When the National Investigation Agency (NIA) surprised everyone last month by dropping charges against controversial Hindu leader Pragya Thakur, many thought it was the end of the road in the 2008 Malegaon blast trials. Hardline right-wing groups cheered the decision and called Thakurs prosecution a witch hunt as the NIA alleged the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) planted bombs on some of the suspects. But barely had their euphoria died down when a Mumbai court denied bail to Thakur on Tuesday. Behind this dramatic U-turn lay a web of witness retractions, shoddy probe allegations and accusations that the NIA was trying to go soft in what is the most sensational of all alleged saffron terror cases. At the heart of the years-long probe is Thakur, a shadowy figure with ties to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and controversial right-wing groups that have been linked to the 2008 blast that killed six and injured 100 in the Muslim-majority town. The victims advocates say in its haste to let Thakur off the hook, the NIA assumed the judiciarys role in evaluating the evidence collected by the ATS. The agency also junked all evidence collected by the ATS, something that the victims say set the probe back by years and helped the suspects. The NIA was asked to further investigate and gather new evidence. But in the last five years, they just spoke to the witnesses whose statements the ATS had recorded and wrote their retraction, said Sharif Shaikh, an advocate for the blast victims. This is not how a central agency should work. They should have gone deeper and probed it to a conclusive end. Read: Court rejects Sadhvi Pragya Singhs bail plea The victims say the NIA appeared keen to distance Thakur from the case, and the agency repeatedly sought to dissociate the Hindu leader from her motorcycle that was used to carry out the blast. The agency said the bike was sold before the blasts. But the court rejected the NIAs stand, saying that Thakurs defence couldnt be established before she faced trial and that she couldnt escape association with the motorcycle that was registered in her name. The judge said her presence at a blast conspiracy meet in Bhopal was also established by evidence at hand. Experts say the NIA should have let the court decide Thakurs fate after trial. The charge sheet by the previous agency cant be washed out and accused cant be exonerated. At the most the agency should present their findings and put it before the court. The accused have to face trial and it is the court who should decide the case, said YP Singh, former IPS-turned-lawyer. The flip-flops bolstered growing chatter that the government is trying to shield the suspects; the rumours were triggered last year after a former prosecutor alleged she was pressurised to go slow in the case. Now, as Thakurs legal team readies for a fresh bail plea in the high court, will the agency go back and gather more evidence against the same people they cleared of all charges? The saga in the 2008 Malegaon blast is far from over. Read: Sadhvi Pragya breaks fast after allowed to visit Simhastha Pregnant women working in the government and private sectors can soon look forward to increased maternity leave, helping them balance professional commitments with personal lives and potentially stemming the exodus of expecting mothers from the workplace. After year-long deliberations, the Centre has begun the process of fixing maternity leave to 26 weeks -- six-and-a-half months -- across sectors. This is more than double the leave mothers get in the private sector: 12 weeks or three months. Maternity leave for government workers is six months. A group of ministers headed by finance minister Arun Jaitley gave the green signal to the labour ministrys proposal to increase maternity leave for working women on Wednesday. We will now move the cabinet to get the proposal to amend the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 cleared, said a senior labour ministry official. Women and child development minister Maneka Gandhi met labour minister Bandaru Dattatreya on Wednesday and requested him to expedite the process. If the Union cabinet clears the proposal, India will become one of 40 countries where maternity leave benefits span more than 18 weeks. The International Labour Organizations (ILO) Maternity Protection Convention mandates a minimum 14 weeks of maternity benefit to women but recommends that countries should increase it to 18 weeks. According to ILOs Working Conditions Laws Report 2012, among countries in Asia and the Pacific, 82% have legislation requiring from 12 to more than 18 weeks of maternity leave. Half of these countries legally stipulate 12-13 weeks of maternity leave, with more than a quarter (29%) providing 14- 17 weeks. Recent statistics by ILO also showed that Indian women were leaving the workplace at a rate faster than anywhere in the world. Experts said paltry maternity leave and consequent pressure to return to the workplace was one of the reasons new mothers were forced to quit. Gandhi wrote to Dattatreya last year, proposing the maternity leave currently granted to working women should be increased to eight months, so as to enable mothers to take better care of their newborns. However, the proposal was rejected. The seventh pay panel rejected the demand to increase both the maternity and paternity leave granted to government employees. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Campus politics is here to stay. The government seems to have gone back on a plan to restrict student groups and free speech on college and university campuses, shows a document released by the HRD Ministry on Wednesday for public feedback. The document called some inputs for draft national education policy 2016 says the human resource development ministry encourage(s) the positive role played by students union, an about turn on TSR Subramanian panels suggestion for a ban on student groups explicitly based on caste, religion or any political party. The government came in for all-round criticism over some of the recommendations of the Subramanian panel, which was set up in 2015 to overhaul education system, from school to university, in first such attempt in almost 30 years. Though the report has not been released, over the last few weeks its content has been made public and is available online. Read| Campus politics to board exams: Highlights of education policy recommendations Subramanian, a former cabinet secretary, said in the report the committee had consulted senior advocate who had pointed out prohibiting such activities within the campuses or within a radius thereof will be considered as reasonable. But, the government has taken a much lenient view. The draft says the government will encourage the positive role played by students unions in furthering the interests of democracy and strengthening the democratic systems, governance and processes as well as debates, discussions and pluralism of thoughts. Almost all political parties have a campus presence. Some of them have student wings while others are more discreet in their support. The government, however, has hinted at measure to discourage students from overstaying on campuses. The Subramanian panel is in favour of restricting the time students can stay in university hostels or remain enrolled in a course after complaints that many pupils at leading institutes took years to graduate. The Hyderabad suicide of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula that triggered nation-wide protests seems to have a bearing on the draft as well. All institutions will put in place an effective grievance redressal mechanism and follow the principles of natural justice before taking any punitive action against any student, faculty or organisation, it says. The Subramanian panel report didnt make such a suggestion. Vemula hanged himself on January 17 alleging caste discrimination. The panel had cited the Supreme Court to back curbs on student groups, saying the court had accepted a number of recommendations which inter-alia correspond to curbing the activities of student unions etc., which could potentially disrupt the academic atmosphere. The ministry has started the process of consulting states over the draft while public has been asked to email their suggestions by July 31. The ministry, sources said, was miffed with Subramanian after he wrote a letter to minister Smriti Irani, asking her to make the report public. Read| Govt proposes time limit for enrolment in a course, occupying hostels SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON News / Local by Staff Reporter Prominent human rights lawyer who is also the chairman of the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe (VMCZ), Alec Muchadehama has called upon investigative journalists to be brave as their work will sometimes have safety risks on them or even their families.Masvingo Mirror reported that Muchadehama said this when he spoke at the official launch of an investigative journalism programme for 18 journalists from across the country that was organised by VMCZ.The programme is being sponsored by the USA Embassy Public Affairs Department and is aimed at equipping journalists with investigative skills which will help in bringing out a full story rather than a scratch on the surface.Muchadehama described the journalism that he currently sees around the country as just 'leak journalism' with no straits of investigations.He said that investigative journalism involved immense research, unearthing fraud, corruption and deceit in society."Investigative journalism is far from leak Journalism that we are witnessing on a daily basis in this country.Investigative journalism requires considerable research and evidence in revealing fraud, corruption or deceit happening in society."It also involves a lot of risk which, not only at times jeopardises the lives of the"I would like to encourage investigative journalists who are being trained under this programme to pursue each story they hear about, chase each strand of information they receive, and investigate those thoroughly to provide a detailed account for the wider public audience," he said.He encouraged journalists undergoing training to uphold professional values when doing investigative stories despite the harsh economic environment where some journalists go for months without being paid."I would like to encourage investigative journalists who are being trained under this programme to pursue each story they hear about, chase each strand of information they receive, and investigate those thoroughly to provide a detailed account for the wider public audience."An open, democratic society, a free society needs journalists demonstrating courage and resilience to unearth the truth and deliver accurate stories so that those with public resources can be held to account."We recognise that many journalists in this country work under tough conditions and are paid poorly that is if they are paid at all."Journalists in this country are working in a declining economic climate that can influence the journalists to neglect their own professional values and affect their ability to remain neutral," said Muchadehama.The launch was also attended by VMCZ board members, Njabulo Ncube, Tawanda Majoni, Raphael Khumalo, executive director Laughty Dube, programmes officer Faith Ndlovu, several editors from the State and private media and MISA Zimbabwe board member, Kelvin Jakachira.IJ trainer and veteran journalist Lucinda Fleeson, USA Public Affairs Counsellor, Karen Kelly, US embassy information officer public affairs section Sizani Weza and Reyhana Masters, a former features editor at the Daily News and now a local media trainer. The group of alleged Islamic State sympathisers arrested in Hyderabad managed to successfully test an improvised explosive device (IED) and intended to use it for carrying serial blasts in the city, sources said. The detention and arrest of 11 IS sympathisers were the culmination of more than a six-month long operation in which they were kept under watch by security agencies. In a lawfully intercepted call by the NIA, two members of the group discussed the test of an item which was successful. The conversation also noted that the item had a range of around 70 metres and it was tested with using sand bags as well. The conversation took place on Friday, June 24, five days before they were picked up and will form an important part of evidence against the suspects during a trial. They were definitely discussing the fabrication of an IED. They had gathered enough explosives to make at least 30 to 40 IEDs which they intended to use anytime in the city. This was the first group of IS-sympathisers busted so far in the country that managed to make IED, a senior NIA official who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said. The NIA initially summoned 11 men in connection with their linkages with the group. Five of them named in the FIR - Mohammed Ibrahim Yazdani alias Ibbu, 30, Habeeb Mohammed alias Sir, 32, Mohammed Ilyas Yazdani, 24, Abdullah Bin Ahmed Al Amoodi alias Fahad 31, and Muzaffar Hussain Rizwan, 29 - were formally arrested on Wednesday. According to an NIA spokesperson, the remaining six men called for questioning along with the five formally arrested were released late on Wednesday night but have been summoned for questioning again on Thursday. During searches at the hideouts of the group, the agency recovered chemicals suspected to be urea/Ammonium Nitrate powder and their mixture with sugar, as well as bottles containing mineral acid, Acetone, Hydrogen Peroxide that are precursor substances for making deadly explosive substances. Our forensic experts have found the explosives recovered to be of very high quality, said the NIA official. NIA chief Sharad Kumar said that the alleged IS sympathisers are well-educated and at least two of them are engineers while one is a management graduate. They are from well-to-do families. They were in touch with an IS handler known as Yusuf al-Hindi, who is believed to be Syria, Kumar said. Intelligence agencies suspect al-Hindi to be Shafi Armar, a Bhatkal native who started the terror outfit Indian Mujahideen and later went to Afghanistan to fight the US. As the IS brand expanded, al-Hindi, along with other associates, reached Syria join its fighters. The group had procured two 9mm Chinese pistols from Nanded in Maharashtra and an air gun as well -- these were used by the sympathisers to practice target shooting at an isolated place in Hyderabad. Read| NIA busts IS module in Hyderabad, 11 sympathisers detained in raids Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday dedicated to the nation, an indigenously-developed converged communications network for the armed forces -- a major step towards ensuring their network centricity. The state-of-the-art, fully secure Defence Communication Network (DCN), developed by IT major HCL Infosystems, is the largest single satellite network in the Indian defence forces, spread across the country, a company statement said. This integrated communication architecture between the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force bolsters the prowess of the defence forces during both critical operations and rescue missions. DCN is a major step towards ensuring network centricity across the three services, the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) headquarters and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), the statement said. Speaking on the occasion, Premkumar Seshadri, Executive Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, HCL Infosystems Ltd.. said: This is a moment of great honour for us. HCL Infosystems is proud to design, develop and deploy the first ever converged tri-service communication and IT network for the Indian Defence Forces. The network has been entirely designed and developed in India. We have made significant investments in creating defence communication technology practice, involving design of critical technology systems for military communication. HCL Infosystems is privileged to have the opportunity to successfully partner in yet another mission critical programme of national importance, Seshadri added. HCL Infosystems has had a long association with the Indian defence sector. The company has closely worked with the Indian Air Force to deploy the Air Force Network (AFNet) and AFCEL (Air Force Cellular Network). AFNet is the first network of its kind for Indian defence institutions, which interlinks major installations throughout the country on a high bandwidth network. It incorporates latest traffic transportation technology in the form of internet protocol. An encounter was underway between security forces and a terrorist on Thursday in Malawara village of Jammu and Kashmirs Pulwama, days after eight CRPF jawans were killed in a militant ambush on a convoy in the same district, reports said. According to reports, security forces have cordoned off the area and search operation is underway. Mondays encounter comes after Saturdays attack on the Srinagar-bound three-vehicle Central Reserve Police Force convoy near Frestbal in Pampore town. It was the highest single-incident casualty in three years in the militancy-hit state. Two militants were also killed in retaliatory firing by security personnel in the second major attack on a security convoy this month in the Kashmir valley. The Pakistan-based Lashkar-eTaiba claimed responsibility for last weeks attack. (With ANI inputs) T25 and T26 were born to the same mother in 2012. Four years later, the two brothers are being separated one is being let off into the wild while the other remains in captivity. Meet the jailed tigers of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Born on the reserve, the two were restricted to the Bahera enclosure in 2014 after local villagers in Khitouli area of Bandhavgarh alleged they killed four people. Following more than year of authorities studying their behavior, the tigers are now being separated from each other to be translocated to environments that best suit their nature. While T25 was sent to Van Vihar National Park in Bhopal where he can be near people and be seen from a safe distance, his brother T26 is being located to the Sanjay Tiger Reserve to be released into wild by the first week of July. Authorities at the Bandhavgarh reserve found that T25 was not afraid of humans at all and was more aggressive. (HT Photo) After we captured the tigers in October 2014 and put them in enclosure, we learnt that T25 was not afraid of humans at all. He was more aggressive and would easily go near humans and even pose for photographs, the reserves field director, K Raman, said. On the contrary, T26 was shy and avoided humans, a trait of a wild tiger. After experts from National Tiger Conservation of India (NTCA) and Wildlife Institute of India also came to study them here, we sought permission from NTCA for their translocation. We sought permission for shifting T25 to Van Vihar National Park Bhopal and in case of T26, permission for its translocation to Sanjay Tiger Reserve, the field director said. After studying the tiger siblings behaviour, T26 turned out to be the more shy of the two. Unlike his brother, he avoided humans much like tiger in the wild do. (HT Photo) Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, located between the Vindhyan and Satpura ranges in Umaria district, has one of the highest tiger densities in the country, with over 60 to 65 tigers and 40 tiger cubs. This has led to an increase in man-animal conflict over the past few years, with both mammals getting killed. Read | Why Indias tiger count may not paint the true picture of big cat numbers To monitor his progress in the wild, T26 will be given a radio collar. The NTCA had also asked for a proper survey of the prey base before setting the animal free. Raman said the tiger would be ready to go in the first week of July. The tigers brother, T 25, was successfully translocated to Bhopal on Monday, where he was renamed Bandhu. But he will always remain T25 for us, Raman said. The two brothers were born to T19, a female tiger, and her mate, T 22. Read more | 3,890 tigers roam worlds forests, count rises for 1st time in century SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON It was a mid-term review of sorts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who completed two years in office on May 26, presided over a meeting on Thursday where a report card on the performance of every ministry was laid out. The meeting came amid speculations over a reshuffle of the Union council of ministers ahead of Parliaments monsoon session beginning July 18. The change, however, will not be massive, sources said. In the meeting, Modi reviewed the progress of his ministries in implementing the decisions taken by the cabinet and the announcements made in Union budgets since the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government came to power in 2014. The Prime Ministers Office had asked every ministry to prepare a report on their performance and submit it to economic affairs secretary Shakitkanta Das. Das prepared a consolidated report on the basis of the inputs and made a presentation before Modi and his ministers. Secretaries of different departments were also present in the meeting, which lasted for about five hours and saw a 113-page presentation. Pointing out that some ministries need to step up, the PM asked his colleagues to think differently and make sure that the benefits of various schemes reach the common man. Modi told the gathering that a lot of announcements were made in poll manifestos and budgets, and every ministry should strive to achieve individual targets, sources said. It is a stock-taking exercise to see how many decisions taken by the cabinet has actually been implemented by the respective ministries. There is a growing perception of a gap between delivery of services and what was promised by the NDA government, said a government official. Modi had chaired similar meetings in January and May where detailed presentations were made before the council of ministers. The PM had given a pep talk to his cabinet colleagues and asked them to get over the negative perception that not much was happening in the government. Modi had earlier decided that such meetings will be held on the last Wednesday of every month. Chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expanded his cabinet on Thursday by inducting nine ministers, but the first such exercise in his third term was marked by controversies. Two senior ministers boycotted the swearing-in and questioned the BJP leaderships decision to drop them because of their age. A mining baron, who switched over to the BJP from the Congress only two years ago, was given a cabinet berth despite opposition from a section of the ruling party workers and leaders. Chouhan accommodated nine new ministers in his government Omprakash Dhruve, Archna Chitnis, Rustam Singh and Jaibhan Singh Pawaiya, all cabinet ministers, Harsh Singh, Sanjay Pathak, Lalita Yadav, Surya Prakash Meena and Vishwas Sarang, all ministers of state. Governor Ram Naresh Yadav administered the oath of office at a function in Raj Bhawan. Closed-door meetings were held till afternoon at the chief ministers home to deal with the possible fallout of a decision to ask 86-year-old home minister Babulal Gaur and Sartaj Singh, who is 76, to step down. The party dropped them on the ground that they are above 75. State BJP president Nandkumar Singh Chauhan conveyed the partys decision to Gaur and Singh, visiting their homes personally. Gaur caused a flutter by refusing to obey the decision, asking the party to tell him his mistake. After a flurry of phone calls between Bhopal and Delhi, the partys national general secretary (organisation) Ramlal reportedly managed to convince Gaur to put in his papers. By evening, Gaur sent his resignation letter to the Chouhan. Singh obeyed the decision but he too questioned the partys line, saying he travelled more than any young minister and performance should be a criterion for dropping a minister, not age. Two-time BJP lawmaker for Indore, Sudarshan Gupta, who got hints from the party that he would get a ministerial berth, hosted a luncheon for his supporters at his bungalow. But much to his disappointment his name was dropped. A surprise inclusion is Sanjay Pathak, a mining baron and son of a former minister Satyendra Pathak. Though elected on a Congress ticket from Vijayraghavgarh constituency in Katni district in 2008 and 2013, Sanjay quit the party and joined the BJP in March 2014. Later, he was elected on a BJP ticket in the bypoll for the assembly seat. Omprakash Dhruve, Archna Chitnis and Rustam Singh have been ministers before, while Jaibhan Singh Pawaiya who has been the Bajrang Dals national president and a parliamentarian, has become a minister for the first time. While Dhruve is the lone tribal leader among the new ministers, none of the scheduled caste MLAs could make it to the cabinet. Of the ministers of state Lalita Yadav comes from the Bundelkhand region and her induction was done, party sources said, to send a message regarding caste equations for the 2017 assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh. All the ministers of state have won assembly elections at least twice. Vishwas Sarang is the son of a veteran BJP leader, Kailash Sarang, who has been a patron of Chouhan when he was struggling in politics more than two decades ago. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday questioned officials over the large volume of complaints related to the e-commerce sector, such as booking of tickets and hotel reservations, and set a deadline of 10 days for them to furnish a follow-up action report on grievance redressal. Modi reviewed the progress towards handling and resolution of consumer grievances at the meeting of PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Ti mely Implementation), an ICT- based multi-modal platform for interaction with bureaucracy at the Centre and in states. He asked the officials concerned about the large volume of complaints related to the e-commerce sector, such as booking of tickets and hotel reservations, and the steps being taken to decisively address such issues, a PMO statement said. The Prime Minister was informed about the steps being taken in this regard, including augmenting the capacity of the National Consumer Helpline, it said. Calling for increased efficiency, and more effective redressal of consumer grievances, the Prime Minister asked the officials for a comprehensive review of the nature of issues, and work towards fixing responsibility and identifying solutions for them. He asked for an effective follow-up action within ten days, the statement said. Modi also reviewed the progress of vital infrastructure projects in the road, railway, power, coal and mining sectors, spread over several states including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bihar, Odisha, and Uttarakhand. He took stock of the progress towards installation of solar pumps across the country. It was noted that solar pumps with a total capacity of 208 MegaWatts have already been installed so far across the country, the statement said. The Prime Minister discussed various related issues with the Chief Secretaries of several states including Jharkhand, Telangana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. He was informed that solar pumps are helping provide clean drinking water in remote and Naxalite affected areas of the country, particularly in South Bastar area of Chhattisgarh, it said. During a review of the preparations for dealing with floods, Modi asked states to identify vulnerable areas, properly conduct mock drills, and carry out desiltation work to ensure the efficacy of flood-relief mechanisms. He also emphasized the need for efforts towards water conservation. The Chennai police released on Thursday a photograph of the main suspect in the murder of Infosys employee Swathi Santhanagopalakrishnan, who was hacked to death at a railway station on way to work last week. Though officials have rounded up 20 people, they have yet to make a breakthrough despite releasing CCTV images of the suspect earlier. The Madras high court has warned the state government against slow probe. A police spokesperson said the suspect -- the new photo showed a man wearing a checkered shirt carrying a backpack -- did not speak to the 24-year-old Swathi before attacking her at Nungambakkam railway station. The fact that he did not speak to her does not rule out that he was known to her, an official said, adding the murder weapon --- a sickle --- was sent for forensic tests. Officials said the image too was sent to a lab in Hyderabad for enhancement. Police said the photo was developed by them. Police had earlier released this photo. An eyewitness told a Tamil news channel that Swathi did not make a sound when the man attacked her. Swathi was employed with Infosys branch at Mahindra World City at Singaperumalkoil, around 60km from Chennai. Her murder has triggered outrage in the civil society and among political parties. After the high courts intervention, the state government transferred the investigation from the Government Railway Police to the city police on Monday. Her father has said the people at the crowded station remained mute spectators even as Swathi was attacked. President Pranab Mukherjee has given his approval to HRD ministrys recommendation to sack Pondicherry University Vice Chancellor Chandra Krishnamurthy, facing allegations of plagiarism and misrepresentation. The President has given approval to a HRD ministry recommendation for sacking of Pondicherry VC, said a senior HRD ministry official. According to a senior official, an order in this regard would be issued soon and will be communicated to the university too. Krishnamurthy had been issued a show cause notice after a UGC committee found her guilty of plagiarism and misrepresentation. She took charge on February 1, 2013 for a five-year term. Last August, she was served the show cause notice asking her to explain why she should not be dismissed. However, the VC had challenged the procedural fairness in issue of the notice, but after a court verdict found nothing wrong in it, she replied to it earlier this year. Her reply was studied by the ministry which had then sent a report to the President recommending sacking her. She had also tendered her resignation last month. This is the second instance when HRD ministry has pushed for dismissal of vice chancellor of a central university. Earlier this year, it had dismissed Visva Bharati vice chancellor Sushanta Dattagupta, who faced allegations of financial and administrative irregularities. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Thursday said that contrary to media reports it is not hosting any Iftar party and the reports to this effect are factually incorrect. The media reports on RSS hosting an Iftar party are factually incorrect. We are not organising any such party, RSS Prachar Pramukh Manmohan Vaidya told IANS. The Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM), which is organising Iftar, is an independent Muslim organisation to create national awareness, he added. Asked if RSS supports MRMs Iftar party, Vaidya said, It is Muslims hosting Iftar for Muslims. What have we got to do with it and why would we have any objection? Reports about RSS hosting an Iftar party emerged, particularly in the Urdu media, after MRM -- an organisation said to be affiliated to the RSS -- announced it will host an Iftar party on July 2. RSS leader Indresh Kumar is the Margdarshak (guide) of MRM. However, Vaidya said that Indresh Kumar has no formal connection with MRM. Indreshji is a senior RSS functionary and keeps contact with MRM. He does not hold any formal position in MRM, Vaidya said. On the Sanghs relationship with MRM, Vaidya said, RSS shares views of MRM on national issues and supports national awareness programmes of MRM as any national cause. The MRM was founded in 2002 with the blessings of the RSS and was initially called Rashtravadi Muslim Andolan-Ek Nayi Raah, with the stated aim of bridging the gap between Hindus and Muslims in India. The body was re-christened Muslim Rashtriya Manch in 2005. News / National by Ndou Paul The Vigil, ROHR and MDC-T will be picketing a conference at which Zanu PF will try to persuade the world that it is reforming and should be bailed out with Western loan in the UK.The Zimbabwe Conference 2016 will be running under the banner, 'Rebooting and Rebuilding' and will take place on Tuesday 5th July 2016.In a statement sent to the media, ZimVigil said, "We will be outside the meeting to tell any prospective investors the real reasons why Zimbabwe has run out of money and why the world should be sceptical about any assurances given by the likes of Finance Minister Chinamasa, Minister of Macro Economic Planning and Investment Promotion Obert Mpofu (unaccountably one of the richest men in Zimbabwe) and Mike Bimha, Minister of Industry and Commerce. They are listed to speak at the conference along with Reserve Bank governor John Mangudya."We will hand out leaflets to delegates as they arrive for the Conference which starts at 9 am. There will be a break for lunch from 1 2.30 pm and the conference will continue till 7.15 pm."The Vigil said supporters can join them at any time during the day and it thinks it has the best chance of making an impression when the Zimbabwean delegation arrive. The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to modify its 2014 order on transgenders while clarifying that lesbians, gays and bisexuals are not third gender. A bench comprising justices AK Sikri and NV Ramana said it is amply clear from the verdict of April 15, 2014 that lesbians, gays and bisexuals are not transgenders. During the hearing, additional solicitor general (ASG) Maninder Singh, appearing for the Centre, said it was not clear from the earlier verdict if lesbians, gays and bisexuals are transgenders or not. He said a clarification in this regard was needed. Read | LGBTQIA+: People, gender, sexuality and rainbow of letters Senior advocate Anand Grover, appearing for some transgender activists, said Centre is not implementing the 2014 Supreme Court verdict for the past two years, saying they need clarification on the point of transgenders. Why should we not dismiss the application with costs, the bench asked the ASG, adding, No clarification is required. The application (of Centre) is disposed of. In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court had on April 15, 2014 granted legal recognition to transgenders or eunuchs as third category of gender and had directed the Centre and all states to treat them as socially and educationally backward classes to extend reservation in admission in educational institutions and for public appointments. Paving way to bring transgenders in national mainstream, the apex court directed governments to take steps to remove problems faced by them such as fear, shame, social pressure, depression, and social stigma. It had also said that section 377 of IPC is being misused by police and other authorities against them and their social and economic condition is far from satisfactory. Read | UN LGBTI resolution: Will India vote for equal rights without prejudice? However, in September 2014, the Centre had filed an application in the apex court seeking clarification on the definition of transgender saying lesbian, gay and bisexual cannot be treated under the category of transgender. Interestingly, the SC in its verdict had itself clarified that transgender does not include gay, lesbians, bisexuals. The grammatical meaning of transgender, therefore, is across or beyond gender. This has come to be known as umbrella term which includes Gay men, Lesbians, bisexuals, and cross dressers within its scope. However, while dealing with the present issue we are not concerned with this aforesaid wider meaning of the expression transgender, the SC had said. The Centre had also sought clarification on the grant of OBC status to transgenders saying all such people cannot be clubbed under OBC category as some of them are SC/ST by birth. Two militants were killed in an encounter with security forces in south Kashmirs Pulwama district on Thursday morning, police said. In a statement issued to the media on Thursday evening, the army said an operation was launched by the police and the army in Malwar village near Zudur area of Pulwama district in the morning, based on specific intelligence inputs. As the Army commenced the search of suspected house, the heavy volume of fire was drawn by the terrorists hiding inside the house following which a gun battle ensued. The security forces effectively cordoned off the house to prevent escape of the terrorists. At about 10.00 am, while making an attempt to escape from the cordoned house both the terrorists were gunned down by the security forces, the army statement said. Police said one of the militants has been identified as a Kashmiri man named Manzoor Ahmad of Gandibagh in Kakpora area of south Kashmir and the other, a foreigner who has been identified by his code name, Abu Aayan. Arms, including an AK-47 rifle and a Chinese pistol, and ammunition were also recovered, army said. This encounter is yet another in the series of consecutive gun battles that the Valley has seen in last few weeks. Series of attacks in the state In June itself, there have been at least 10 encounters between forces and militants, many of them along the Line of Control (LoC), besides the attack on a CRPF convoy in Pampore, another attack on a BSF convoy, gunning down of two policemen in Anantnag and a lone militant on a bus attacking security personnel in Udhampur district. Protests break out Meanwhile, residents of the area said local youth gathered and pelted stones at the security personnel and police resorted to firing tear-gas shells on the protesters. An eye-witness from Pulwama told HT over the phone that the situation returned to normal by afternoon and only a few people complained of being injured in the clashes. Police said the situation was being monitored but under control. Worrying emerging trend Both political and security observers say it is an emerging trend where hundreds of angry youth gathers at the scene of a gun battle between forces and militants, and try to distract the personnel from pursuing the militants. They pelt stones and shout anti-India slogans in their efforts to somehow help the militants escape the forces. The state police had warned civilians to stay out of encounter sites in February. Yet, even after the advisory, youths were seen coming out in solidarity with militants and protest against the personnel on multiple occasions. Moreover, funeral of militants also sees gathering of thousands. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON After days of name calling and wrangling with each other, there was an attempt at a truce between the Shiv Sena and Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday after senior BJP leader and finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar called on Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray at his residence Matoshree, to invite the latter for a government function. While the ostensible reason for the meeting was the government invitation for a state wide drive to plant 2 crore trees on Friday, July 1, the 25-minutes meeting between the two went beyond formalities with BJP holding out an olive branch and calling for a ceasefire. Sources told HT that Mungantiwars visit was not impromptu and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was in the loop over the attempt to meet Sena chief as a way of making amends. ``It was a positive meeting. It is only natural to invite our ally for the function. We want to move forward instead of trying to remove scabs of old wounds. And, having a dialogue always helps, Mungantiwar told HT. Sources also said that it had been decided to end hostilities and keep doors for dialogue and co-ordination more ajar ahead of the upcoming elections to Zilla Parishads and civic corporations. Thackeray and Fadnavis are now expected to meet next week ahead of the cabinet reshuffle. Despite what Mungantiwar said the invitation itself is important considering that BJP has earlier used protocol as an excuse to not give Sena chief, a place on the dias at government functions. At two functions earlier, Thackeray was not even invited, leading to backlash from the Sena. Post meeting, Thackeray also spoke of peace but his statement about the nature of alliance was guarded. Whether the alliances differences will remain or not depend on both the parties. We havent opposed them for the sake of opposing. There are fundamental differences, which we cant agree to, and we will continue to voice our opposition to those, said Thackeray even as he praised Mungantiwar. ``After a very long time, the State has got a forest minister who is passionate about the environment, he added. The Sena chief also made light of the ministers gift life size model of a tiger - and remarked at the need to let the tiger (symbol associated with the Sena) grow. We spoke about how to ensure that the tiger count increases. Tiger numbers must grow, not just in the State but across the country. Sena insiders, said that the visit did help ties. It was nice that they finally showed respect to Uddhavji. However, such a one-off visit will not help. The government needs to realize that Uddhavji is our tallest leader and the Sena is an important partner, to involve him more often, said a senior Sena leader, not wishing to be named. Whether this truce can tone down bitterness between the parties especially at the local level remains to be seen. A section within the BJP is keen on having a clean split with Sena ahead of the polls. For the last two weeks, the saffron allies have been lampooning leaders of the other with Sena taking the hostilities a step further by holding protests and burning effigies of BJP leaders. The recent spat started with BJP spokesperson Madhav Bhandari writing an article in party fortnightly Manogat, challenging Sena to walk out and comparing Thackeray to comedian Asrani from the Bollywood blockbuster, Sholay. It was a retort to an editorial in Sena mouthpiece Saamna that said BJP government was akin to the `Nizam raj. Observing that an accused person, especially one charged with a serious offence has a statutory right to be apprised of every material that will be used against him by the prosecution, the Bombay high court on Thursday directed the CBI court to handover the confessional statement of Shyamvar Rai to Sanjeev Khanna and all others accused in the Sheena Bora murder case. Rai, who used to work as a driver for prime accused Indrani Mukherjea, recently turned approver in the case, and was granted pardon by the court. Khanna had moved an application in the HC after the CBI court denied his request for a copy of Rais statement that was recorded before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code on November 6 last year. The special court had said since the prosecution was not relying upon the statement, Khanna neednt be given a copy. Justice Sadhna Jadhav, who was presiding over Khannas plea in the HC, however, said the special CBI courts observation was not proper. She said now that Rai had turned approver, and thus, a prosecution witness, it was clear that the CBI would use his statement as evidence and Khanna thus, had a right to know what had been said for or against him. Justice Jadhav also directed the CBI to attach a copy of the statement with the first charge sheet filed in the case. While the prosecution has said it does not intend to withhold the statement from Khanna, it has said it will release it only at a proper stage. This cant be accepted. Every accused has a right to access the evidence against him and this court must follow the statutes. At the stage of commence of trial, the accused is called upon to either accept or deny the charges against him. At this stage, he must know of all material being used against him by the prosecution. Thus, the CBI as well as the special court has no reason to withhold the statement, she said. On April 24, 2012, Peter Mukerjeas wife Indrani, Khanna and Rai had allegedly strangulated Indranis daughter Sheena Bora, and later disposed her body in a thickly forested area in Gagode village of Raigad district, according to the Khar police. The murder came to light after the arrest of driver Rai by Khar police in an arms act case. Indrani was arrested on August 25 last year in the murder case. Later, the CBI arrested Peter. ISTANBUL: Turkish investigators pored over video footage and witness statements on Wednesday after three suspected Islamic State suicide bombers opened fire and blew themselves up in Istanbuls main airport, killing 41 people and wounding 239. The attack on Europes third busiest airport was the deadliest in a series of suicide bombings this year in Turkey, part of the US-led coalition against Islamic State and struggling to contain spillover from neighbouring Syrias war. President Tayyip Erdogan said the attack should serve as a turning point in the global fight against terrorism, which he said had no regard for faith or values. One attacker opened fire in the departures hall with an automatic rifle, sending passengers diving for cover and trying to flee, before all three blew themselves up in or around the arrivals hall a floor below, witnesses and officials said. Video footage showed one of the attackers inside the terminal building being shot, before falling to the ground as people scattered. The attacker then blew himself up around 20 seconds later. Turkey pointed the finger of blame at Islamic State militants on Wednesday after suicide bombers armed with automatic rifles attacked Istanbuls main international airport, killing 41 people, including foreigners. Witnesses described scenes of terror and panic on Tuesday evening as the attackers began shooting indiscriminately and then blew themselves up at the entrance to Ataturk airport, one of Europes busiest hubs. The assault, at the start of Turkeys crucial summer tourist season, was the latest in a wave of attacks in Istanbul and the capital Ankara over the past year, putting the country on high alert. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but PM Binali Yildirim said the evidence points to Daesh, using another name for the militant group. The citys governor said 41 people were killed, including 13 foreigners, and 239 wounded. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for an international joint fight against terror, as Western allies, including the US, condemned the heinous attack. President Barack Obama offered US security assistance to Turkey. Obama telephoned Erdogan to express his deep condolences on behalf of the American people, White House spokesman Josh Earnest told reporters travelling with the US leader to a summit in Ottawa. In the context of that call, he will offer any support that the Turks can benefit from as they conduct this investigation and take steps to further strengthen the security situation in their country. Any information that we obtain that could be useful to the Turkish investigation, we will certainly share that information, he added. Security camera footage widely circulated on social media appeared to capture two of the blasts. In one clip a huge ball of flame erupts at an entrance to the terminal building, scattering terrified passengers. Another video shows a black-clad attacker running inside the building before collapsing to the ground apparently felled by a police bullet and blowing himself up. Analyst Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish Research Programme at The Washington Institute, described it as a symbolic attack against the heart of Turkey. If this Islamic State is indeed behind this attack, this would be a declaration of war. Turkeys vengeance will come down like rain from hell on the Islamic State. The attack prompted the suspension of all flights at the airport, but operations were resuming on Wednesday with some delays. There was chaos at the nearest hospital in Istanbuls Bakirkoy district, which was inundated with relatives desperate for news of loved ones. Brussels airport, the scene of suicide bombings just months ago, tweeted condolences, saying: Our thoughts are with the victims of the attacks at @istanbulairport.. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a closed-door consultation with BJP chief Amit shah here on Wednesday amid speculation of a reshuffle in the government and the ruling party. Modi completed two years in power on May 26 and is likely to carry out a reshuffle of his team before leaving for a four-nation trip on July 6. Rajasthan, Assam, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh are likely to gain in this round of changes that party sources claimed would be minor. A couple of junior ministers are likely to be dropped for different reasons, including health ground. Minority affairs minister Najma Heptulla who turned 75 - the upper age limit to be a minister in Modi government - last year is also believed to be on her way out. Power minister Piyush Goyal, a minister of state with independent charge, is tipped for a promotion. A 32-year-old woman along with her brother-in-law was arrested for allegedly getting her husband murdered on Sunday. The victim has been identified as Dheeraj Chaudhary (37). Dheeraj was killed when unidentified men fired indiscriminately at his office at Sadarpur. Dheeraj died after taking five bullets while his father Jagveer was injured in the attack. According to the police, the plan included Dheeraj wife Priti, her brother-in-law Varun (30), a money lender Jaideep Sirohi and his accomplice Monu. Varun and Jaideep planned to murder Dheeraj and Priti supported them. Jaideep used to work for the UP police but took voluntary retirement and started the money lending business. Dheeraj had borrowed Rs 1.5 crore from Jaideep at an interest of 3%. He further loaned out the money to other persons at 8% interest. But when Jaideep asked Dheeraj to return, Dheeraj could not return it as his debtors did not return him. This soured the relationship between Jaideep and Dheeraj. Jaideep knew that Dheerajs wife Priti had developed a relationship with Varun, so he roped him and promised equal share in Dheerajs property, said Salmantaj Patil, superintendent of police (SP). Priti and Varun developed relationship while Dheeraj was in jail in a case for eight months. Also, Varun, who used to stay at Dheerajs house earlier, was angry with him as Dheeraj had promised to give him `6 lakh for his sisters marriage, but backed off at the last moment, the SP said. As per the plan, in June, Priti convinced Dheeraj to prepare a video on his mobile phone in which he said that his five debtors should be held responsible if any untoward incident happens with him. The video is with the police. The police said Varun, Jaideep and Monu planned to kill Dheeraj on June 22 but they backed off at the last moment. They gunned down Dheeraj in the second attempt on June 26. But our investigation went haywire when we saw Dheerajs video. When we questioned the persons named in the video, we learnt that they were not involved in the murder. When we checked Pritis call record and information about her relationship with Varun, we got suspicious. Both were questioned and they broke down, the SP said. Priti and Varun were arrested on Wednesday, while Jaideep and Monu are on the run. Having lost his house in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Daljeet Singh (55), who lives with his family in a rented accommodation at Dhakoli near Zirapkur, is waiting for allotment of house under the riot victims category. Daljeet moves from one government office to another with the red card he was issued as a riot victim. There are 871 families in SAS Nagar which are waiting allotment from the Greater Mohali Area Development authority (GMADA). Disappointed over the governments apathy, Daljeet, son of a freedom fighter, has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying this Independence Day he would return the Tamar Patra awarded to his father Gulzar Singh. Daljeet had in February written a letter to the PM, whose office had asked the Punjab government to take action. I have knocked at doors of the administration, GMADA, chief minister and even Prime Minister, seeking allotment of a house anywhere in Punjab but to no avail, he said. A senior GMADA official said, As per the procedure, Daljeet Singhs name has to be in the list of riot victims prepared by the DC office. He will be considered for allotment only then. We do not have powers to allot houses directly. When houses are available, allotment will be made. My name is on the list of riot victims, Daljeet claimed. Daljeet said, The red card has lost its meaning due to corruption. Illegal occupants backed by local leaders have occupied houses while genuine red-card holders are moving from government office to another to get justice. He said the government had paid him a compensation of `2 lakh which was given to riot victims with an assurance of allotting them a house. Inquiries have been made about me. I do not own any property. Even then I am not getting my due, said Daljeet who is into transport business. SAS Nagar deputy commissioner DS Mangat said, Houses are to be allotted as per availability. We have a list of riot victims who will be allotted houses when available. GMADA TO RE-ALLOT HOUSES TO ELIGIBLE FAMILIES The GMADA had earmarked 87 houses in Phase 11, SAS Nagar, that are to be allotted to the riot victims having red cards. Carrying out a verification survey, the GMADA found that about 50 houses were occupied by ineligible persons. It issued eviction notice to these families. After getting these houses vacated, it will allot the same to eligible families. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Punjab AAP convener Sucha Singh Chhotepur, on Wednesday, said farmer subsidies including free power to farm tube wells will continue under the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab. Chhotepur said the existing subsidies were insufficient for farmers, and hence they were driven to suicide because of financial crisis. Citing USAs example, Chhotepur said the US government gave full compensation to farmers against any loss caused to their crop, adding that free power to farm tube wells was meaningless because the government had failed to ensure regular flow of electricity even for a few hours daily. The AAP leader said he had met with a group of farmers a few days ago, who said they had never sought free power for their tube wells. They only wanted round the clock power supply. Chhotepur also said chief minister Parkash Singh Badal should give up hopes of retaining power in the upcoming state assembly elections, because each section of society in Punjab had suffered at the hands of the SADBJP rule. He also alleged that once a great political party, the Shiromani Akali Dal had now been reduced to mere a fatherson company, adding that other Akali leaders and workers were feeling suffocated due to Badals alleged dictatorial behaviour. Coming back to his partys policies, the AAP leader said the party manifesto will be released next month and would concentrate on removing poverty, unemployment and corruption, besides controlling the drug menace effectively. He went on to say that the illicit drug trade in the state had flourished under the patronage of influencial politicians, and claimed that action He stated that on coming to power legal action will be initiated against all those found guilty of running and patronising the drug trade. He also claimed that Punjab had made up its mind to vote the AAP government to power in the upcoming assembly polls in 2017. With the Congress and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) training their guns at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for alleged Khalistani connections, the emotive issue of Sikh separatism has once again come to the front-burner in Punjab politics, with barely six months to go for the state assembly polls. A day after state Congress president Captain Amarinder Singhs scathing attack on the AAP, deputy chief minister and SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal said on Wednesday that he had no doubt that AAP was the political front of Sikh hardliners. Read: Have proof of Khalistanis funding AAP: Capt Amarinder Reacting, AAPs state convener Sucha Singh Chhotepur said Khalistan was not an issue any more, and that the two parties were stooping to imagining things to hit out at the AAP. At the same time, AAP manifesto in-charge Kanwar Sandhu said there was no harm in discussing Khalistan just like any other issue is discussed. Talking to HT, Sukhbir alleged that Delhi CM and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal had held a series of meetings with Sikh fundamentalists and promised them control of Sikh gurdwaras in return for their support. AAP leaders are playing with fire. They have no clue, what it means to dabble into Sikh politics. He alleged that AAPs ideology of disruption was in line with the ideology of troublemakers. AAP has completely aligned itself with the Sikh separatists ideology just because they want to appease every section of people in order to come to power. AAPs hobnobbing with former Sikh extremists can only mean bad news for Punjab, threatening the states hard earned peace, he added. The AAP leadership too, despite its tendency to hold press conferences and issues statements on most issues, has maintained a strategic silence on various Sikh issues, including Khalistan. This has given the Congress and SAD arsenal. However, Sukhbir asserted, The SAD has never demanded that AAP clearly state its stand on Khalistan. Such questions are asked when there are doubts; in this case we have no doubt that the AAP is the political front of Sikh hardliners. . AAP leaders are so desperate to win the coming elections that they are ready to say yes to anything not realizing that Punjabs hard earned peace is at stake. AAP leaders, when contacted by HT, rubbished the allegation. Khalistan is not an issue in Punjab anymore. SAD and Congress are trying to whip up touchy instances of the past because they have nothing to attack us with. The real issues of the state are drug addiction, farm crisis and unemployment. Why dont they talk about those? said Chhotepur. AAPs manifesto in-charge Kanwar Sandhu said, Where is the need for us to explain our stand on Khalistan? AAP is into electoral politics and that, by definition, means we believe in the integrity of India. We are against anyone who acts in a manner that will lead to disintegration of the country. However, there is no harm in discussing Khalistan just like any other issue is discussed. Also, our party has stood for protection of human rights, and will continue to speak against any violations. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON News / National by Staff reporter Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa has issued a stern warning to corrupt officials in government owned institutions who are stifling the country's efforts to turn around the economy.Speaking at the official opening of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) annual congress in Victoria Falls today, Cde Mnangagwa said the government has come with a national code of corporate governance which must instill a positive value system which is characterised by integrity, honesty and hard work, as part of efforts to tackle the scourge, which has become a cancerous drawback in economic growth."As you rightly noted in last year's resolutions, corruption is a scourge that increases the cost of doing business thereby affecting our competitiveness and business viability. In this regard, I would like to point out that the fight against this abhorrent incubus must be adequately broad based and within the framework of a national call to all Zimbabweans and all sectors to fight the scourge. For those who have already committed the crime, let me assure you that we are on our way," he said.The Minister of Industry and Commerce, Cde Mike Bimha said as part of economic revival, the government has set up two committees , with one looking into the challenges to do with importation of goods, while the other is looking at the ease of doing business."The two make committees make recommendations that seek to stimulate economic turnaround," he said.Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) President, Mr Davison Norupiri said the financial sector is the most critical component which should be given first priority to facilitate the movement of money to where it is needed at competitive rates so that the industry can access working capital for a successful economic turnaround.The government has reviewed the implementation of the second 100 day ease of doing business reforms, to restore confidence among foreign investors, industry and commerce as well as other stakeholders to stimulate economic revival. On a complaint by Sikh hardliners, Mahavir Singh, a Kotli Wasava Singh village resident, was arrested for allegedly making derogatory remarks against Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale on Tuesday. The man allegedly made derogatory remarks on social media against Bhindranwale. He allegedly circulated a sound clip that contained remarks against Bhindranwale, on a popular messaging app and other social networking sites. It angered Sikh radical groups including Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Committee. Members of these groups have demanded strict action against Mahavir. Mandeep Singh, activist of a radical group, lodged a complaint on June 22 that by making such remarks, the person has deeply hurt Sikh sentiments. Police probed the matter for a week. Sikh groups had warned that they would launch a stir if the police did not take action against Mahavir. After receiving a complaint, we thoroughly investigated the matter. While interrogation, the suspect confessed that the clip was recorded and shared by him, said SHO Surjit Singhof Valtoha police station. Bald patches on the Dholewal flyover road, carpeted 15 days ago, have exposed the municipal corporations failure to ensure good quality roads in the city. Questions are being raised over the role of building and roads wing of the MC and the contractor concerned. Rajat Sood, a city resident, said, Potholes had appeared on this road last year also, and I had filed a complaint to the deputy chief minister. But no official was held responsible for this and the MC had conducted patch work. Now, the newly laid layer has once again started peeling off. Neither measures are being taken to improve the condition of roads nor action is being taken against guilty officials. MC executive engineer Karamjit Singh said after inspecting the flyover on Tuesday, they served a notice to contractor. We have held back the contractors payment, and directed him to re-carpet the road, he added. MC commissioner Ghanshyam Thori said he will look into the matter. After holes had appeared in the premix (mixture of bitumen and crushed gravels) carpeting done in May 2015 - on the flyover, the MC had decided to replace it with mastic asphalt (deformation resistant surfacing material) layer in June. CRACKS ON OTHER ROADS Potholes and cracks have started appearing on other newly carpeted roads, including Ghumar Mandi Road, College Road, recently. Seven members of a gang, including a postgraduate, were arrested with drugs, arms, and ammunition on Wednesday at Naarhawali Nijhra village near Lambra in a joint operation of a special task force (STF) and the cops from Jalandhar and Kapurthala. Assistant inspector general of police (AIG) HPS Khakh, who led the team that laid the trap, said the gang had made a failed attempt to drive its two cars through the barricade where inspectors Inderjeet Singh and Shiv Kumar had been leading vehicle search. Accused Gurdeep Singh (32) of Ajtaani, Jaswant Singh (30) of Jaaniya, Sandeep Kumar (28) of Garra, Mukal Kumar (28) of Bara Pind, and Rakesh Kumar (32) of Mehatpur are all from Jalandhar villages. Accused Kuldeep Singh (25) and Mandeep Kumar (26) are from Kapurthala district. They all have a long criminal history and one of them, Mukal Kumar, holds a master-of-science (MSc) degree in information technology. They were once associated with the gang of Gaurav Sharma Goru Bachcha, who is on the run since the murder of an autorickshaw driver in Ludhiana in April over a parking issue. Read: Lust for easy money made him a criminal From the two cars on Wednesday, police claim to have seized five pistols, two rifles, 15 live cartridges, a few sharp-edged weapons, Rs 8 lakh drug money, and 600-gram heroin. Kingpin Gurdeep Singh is wanted in several cases of murder attempt, robbery, and theft; and in preliminary interrogation, his gang has accepted its hand in drug trade and several crimes in various districts, said the AIG, adding that the men would be produced in court on Thursday. Phagwara superintendent of police (SP) Ajinder Singh and deputy superintendent of police (detective, rural) Dharam Pal were present at the press conference. On June 20, the STF had arrested six members of Gurpreet Singh Gopi Dalewalia gang with weapons. The force was formed on May 8 to hunt down 57 gangs active in the state. After Bargari, Bhagta Bhai Ka town may become another trouble spot for the state government due to repeated incidents of sacrilege in the town. Sikh activists led by Dhian Singh Mand, Baljit Singh Daduwal, Amrik Singh Ajnala and district president of Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) Parminder Singh Balianwali on Wednesday held a meeting at Bhagta Bhai Ka gurdwara demanding the arrest of those involved in the two sacrilege incidents in the town. They said that if the police fail to trace the accused by July 5, a plan of action will be announced in a meeting on July 6 in the town. Heavy police force was deployed in the town following the announcement. Besides the Sikh activists, many local Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders including the president of nagar panchayat Rakesh Kumar also attended the meeting. Kumar said that they took part in the meeting as they felt it was necessary to be part of the matter which was related to the town. He said that they will hold a meeting of nagar panchayats on July 6 to discuss the matter. The radical leaders criticised the role of nagar panchayats saying that they had failed to even hold a meeting to condemn the desecration. Two incidents of desecration of gutka (a small book of essential verses from Guru Granth Sahib) were reported from the town on June 21 and June 25. In the second incident, the perpetrators had written slogans such as RSS zindabad on the torn pages, seemingly to incite religious frenzy. The Punjab Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau on Wednesday made a special investigating team (SIT) to find out who is behind the multi-crore-rupee land-acquisition scam in Hoshiarpur. Deputy inspector general (DIG) of police (vigilance, Chandigarh) Shiv Kumar Verma will lead the team that includes Ludhiana senior superintendent of police (vigilance) Rupinder Singh and Jalandhar superintendent of police (vigilance) Praveen Kanda. A series of HT reports since June 23 had exposed the scam, forcing the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) to direct Punjab additional chief secretary NS Kalsi to hold an inquiry. HT was the first to report how politically well-connected land sharks had first bought the 100-acre land notified for acquisition for a throwaway price and then received hefty compensation. On June 24, a day after the first report, the state government had transferred Hoshiarpur subdivisional magistrate (SDM) Anand Sagar Sharma, tehsildar Baljinder Singh, and naib tehsildar Manjit Singh. It had put the vigilance bureau (VB) on the case but formed the SIT only on Wednesday. Read: Hoshiarpur land scam: How Akalis & friends made crores via rumours, clout, nexus The team will look into the role of high-profile Hoshiarpur leaders of the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), who are said to be together in the scandal with public officials and land mafia. Relatives of Hoshiarpur Akali leaders had bought this road-project land worth Rs 100-crore dirt cheap from farmers. After RTI activist Rajiv Vashisht took the matter to the PMO, submitting clippings of the HT reports along with other evidence, an inquiry order followed. The SIT will submit its report in six weeks. Read: HT Impact: PMO orders probe into Hoshiarpur land scam Ever since the scam came to light, opposition leader of the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have been gunning for the Akali government, demanding that the case be moved to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Akali leaders, including Hoshiarpur Market Committee chairman Avtar Singh Johal, councillor Harpinder Gill, and district co-operative bank chairman Satwinder Pal Singh Dhatt were among those who had bought the land notified for the four-laning of the road with property rights already transferred to the National Highway Authority of Indian (NHAI) on November 2, 2015. Later, they allegedly built illegal colonies on these sites and pocketed crores of rupees in compensation. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Smoke emanating from the landing gear of a SpiceJet Delhi-Amritsar flight caused a scare at the Amritsar airport on Thursday. The flight had landed in Amritsar at 6:15 pm when an engineer saw smoke billowing from the right landing gear. As a precautionary measure, the engineer used fire extinguisher over the gear. All passengers are safe and the incident is not being termed a fire or a tyre burst. Taking a precautionary measure he used fire extinguisher over heated landing gear. All passengers safe. Not an incident of fire/tyre burst. ANI (@ANI_news) June 30, 2016 It was June 25, 1975, and my college Government Rajindra College, Bathinda was closed for vacations. I had gone to my college junior Punjab Singhs house at Goniana Mandi, who was an active member of the Punjab Students Union (PSU) of which I was the state leader. I spent a night there conversing with my host and returned to Bathinda the next morning. As I alighted from the bus and walked towards Banwari halwais shop a meeting place for union leaders and Leftists opposite the district courts, college mates and union members dragged me inside saying, Balli, how come you are moving around? Dont you know the police are looking for you? It conducted midnight raids at various places, including your Rampura Phul residence, to arrest you. No idea how many have been arrested. I was taken aback. Why are police conducting raids? We havent done anything wrong. No agitation, no fight. Something called the Emergency has been imposed by Indira Gandhi, said one of the union members. It was beyond the ken. The word Emergency in this sense was new to us. Though we had experienced blackouts during Indo-Pak wars in 1965 and 1971, Emergency was unheard of. Except the Congress, members of all other political parties and organisations had been arrested. We dodged the police and managed to get a copy of The Indian Express. Its front page bore an image of scissors with word Censored printed on it. Later that day, we got to know that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed the Emergency to suppress the mass movement launched by Jayaprakash Narayan under the pretext of thwarting threat to the internal security in the country. All political opponents were put behind bars by charging them under the British-era law Defence of India Rules (DIR) wherein the government had the power to put anybody in the jail for a year without trial. The PSU was in no way directly part of the movement led by Narayan. We were considered ultra-Leftists but still became the victims of the Emergency. Some of our colleagues, including Prem Singh Chandumajra, who was the PSU leader of the Patiala and Sangrur zone, were also put behind bars. The PSU members and revolutionary student leader Prithipal Singh Randhawa met and decided to oppose the autocratic step of the then Congress government in an organised way. The Shiromani Akali Dal also launched its morcha against the Emergency and we separately ran our movement against the draconian anti-democratic measure. Cases were registered against me, my brothers and a close relative under the DIR. We used to paste handbills on college walls and public places calling upon people to oppose the Emergency. We used to carry out this activity during night to avoid being caught by the police. We also used to organise meetings and at times, hold protest rallies in colleges. In deference to the PSUs state committee decision, Randhawa courted arrest but I and some other union leaders remained underground. The police acted harsh in the beginning, continued raids on our residences but gave some relaxation after a year. The case under the DIR was withdrawn only after the Emergency was lifted in 1977. That period is an unforgettable chapter of my college days and its memory is refreshed every year in June. (The writer is editor of Baushahi.com) tirshinazar@gmail.com The district police have claimed to have arrested the mastermind behind Swami Sarvanand Giri Punjab Universitys regional campus student Manpreet Singh Manna, and his two accomplices and recovered weapons and smack from them. Although, the police are said to have nabbed the culprits from some other location, senior superintendent of police (SSP) Kuldip Singh Chahal claimed that the trio Satwinder Singh alias Kala Falahi, Satnam Chaudhary alias Amna Bhalwan and Bhupinder Kumar alias Sonu were arrested during a special checking in Garhshankar on Tuesday when they were travelling in the same Xylo car (PB 01-A-2110) they had used in the crime. He revealed that two kg smack, two 7.65 mm pistols, one .315-bore pistol, one .12-bore gun and a large quantity of cartridges were seized from them. The SSP revealed that Kala Falahi was a notorious man, who was wanted in several criminal cases, including that of murder, dacoity and narcotic smuggling. Accused Amna had been convicted in a murder case and was out on parole when he executed Mannas murder, he informed. He claimed that Kala Falahi, a former student of Khalsa College, Mahilpur, and imprisoned gangster Billa Gujjar had planned Mannas murder as part of their battle of supremacy in college politics and the former had executed the plan with the help of the other accused. The SSP said that a complaint had been lodged with the ADGP (jails) in regard to Gujjars criminal activities from inside the Amritsar central jail. The district police chief said that after Mannas killing, the Falahi-Gujjar duo had planned the murder of another city resident, but the police preempted the move. We have also identified the student of the Sarvanand Giri campus, who had done recce on Manna before his murder. He will be arrested soon, he claimed. He said that Kala Falahi was involved in about 25 criminal cases but only six FIRs were registered against him. It can be the negligence of police or fear of the gangster that the public did not lodge complaints against him, he added. Police arrested two persons with fake currency notes having a face value of Rs 4 lakh from near the ICL railway crossing on the GT Road in Rajpura on Thursday. A total of 745 currency notes the denomination of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 were recovered. The accused have been allegedly smuggling and circulating fake Indian currency notes printed in Pakistan through Bangladesh via Malda district of West Bengal. It is learnt that the arrested persons bought the counterfeit notes for Rs 40,000 per lakh from Bangladesh. The accused, Jugansu Chaudhry and Sudan Chowdhry, are residents of Malda. Rajpura superintendent of police (SP) Manjeet Singh Brar said a police party caught the accused when they alighted from a bus and tried to flee on seeing the cops. A case under Sections 489A/B/C (counterfeiting currency notes) of the Indian Penal Code has been registered. The accused used buy things up to Rs 100 by giving fake notes having face value of Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 to shopkeepers and used to get original notes in balance. The SP said they had circulated fake currency of around Rs 70,000 in Jaipur of Rajasthan. References in the movie Udta Punjab to illicit drugs allegedly being produced in Himachal Pradesh has led to the hill state working on a strategy to curb such practices in its pharmaceutical-industry belt. The Alia Bhatt-Shahid Kapoor-Kareena Kapoor starrer, which ran into controversy over allegations of defaming Punjab, has a plot in which two characters reveal a politician getting drugs illicitly produced at a factory in Barotiwala for distribution as bribe among voters. Now, various departments of the Himachal government the police, the health department, and Narcotics Control Bureau have been issued directions to keep tabs. We want a joint strategy to check the drug menace, state chief secretary VC Pharka told HT. Also read | Udta Punjab on a high in Badal backyard Bathinda I have heard that the movie has reference of drugs coming from factories in Himachal Pradesh; it will tarnish the image of the pharma hub, said additional director general of police BNS. We are tightening the noose around drug factories; strict vigil will be kept on both the banned as well as non-banned drugs to check misuse, he added. Cops suspect that chemical formulations being used for manufacturing legitimate drugs are being pilfered for use in other, upon-prescription-only drugs that are often abused by youth. Police teams will also keep tabs on the formulations being brought by pharma units from outside the state. There are loopholes which need to be plugged, asserted Negi. We will check if formulations being brought for legitimate drugs are actually being used for that purpose only. The state government has also asked drug authorities to keep a check on stocks of raw material. Also read I Udta Punjab: Facts, figures and falsehoods of states drug problem There is an element of downplay too. Officials claimed that intelligence reports said some units that have now shifted from Baddi and Barotiwala were clandestinely producing banned drugs. For years, Punjab has been blaming Himachal for pilferage but the information is that some such units that were involved in illicit trade have now shifted to Ghaziabad... It is certain that couriers of drugs came from Punjab, said inspector general of police (southern zone ) Sajjad Zahur Ali Haider Zaidi. Officials who did not wish to be named, however, said abuse of medicinal drugs was more in the areas bordering Punjab; these include places in Solan, Sirmaur, Kangra and Una districts. Often, formulations used in sedatives and painkillers are mixed with other chemicals to produce party drugs, said an official. Drug menace is more in the bordering areas. We have chalked out something concrete to curb this, said state drug controller Sanjeev Marwah, refusing to share exacts. He added, We have asked counterparts in Punjab to give us pinpointed information about drug factories involved in illicit trade. There are more than 400 pharmaceutical units based in the industrial townships of Baddi, Barotiwala, Nalagarh and Parwanoo in Solan district, while more than 100 units are based in Paonta Sahib and Kala Amb in Sirmaur district. It has thus emerged as one of the pharma hubs in North India, producing drugs worth Rs 24,000 crore, of which export amounts to Rs 9,000 crore a year. BY THE WAY: Udta Punjab is scared of deeper reality SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON News / National by Staff Reporter News coming from Zimbabwe is that Lumumba arrested for calling Mugabe FF. Meanwhile confusion goes on in Zim Gvt pic.twitter.com/e4jygYLT4p EZRA SIBANDA (@EZRATSHISA) June 30, 2016 There are reports that Acie Lumumba has been arrested after saying F you to president Mugabe.More to follow... A day after chief minister Parkash Singh Badal downplayed Punjabs drug problem at a sangat darshan in Lopoke in Rajasansi constituency, Congress was quick to remark that the states drug problem will be the partys main poll agenda and that it was committed to make Punjab nasha mukt. Congress leaders Ravneet Singh Bittu (Ludhiana MP) and Shamsher Singh Dullo (Rajya Sabha MP) targeted the Badals and cabinet minister Bikram Singh Majithia at a workers meeting at Majithias constituency Kathunangal. Saying that the recently released Bollywood flick Udta Punjab mirrored Punjabs reality, Bittu said, Punjab continues to face humiliation because of the prevailing drug problem. It is an unfortunate situation. But instead of accepting it, he is denying the fact. Every person in Punjab knows the real situation and we will definitely ensure that the state is made drug-free when the Congress comes to power, adding that one routinely heard about cases of death from drug overdose. Bittu also slammed the government for failing to nab culprits behind incidents of desecration of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib in Bargari. This government has failed to arrest the culprits behind these incidents. I will say the CM is responsible for all of this, he added. The Ludhiana MP also targeted the government for the poor state of farmers in Punjab and said it was doing nothing to stop farmer suicides. People are committed to teach a lesson to the Akalis and they will find it tough to pin their hopes on Majithia during election, he said. Reiterating Bittus words, Rajya Sabha MP Dullo said, The majority of Punjabs youth is trapped in a drug menace and the Badals are clearly responsible for this. Punjab is fed up and has made its mind to throw the Akalis out of power. The Congress is committed to fight the drug problem. We will wipe it out like we did the problem of terrorism. Dullo also challenged deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal to a dope test. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Rahul Patnaik*, a 25-year-old Delhi resident, compares his live-in relationship to the beta version of a website. It is a trial period, he laughs, during which you can check whether the website has any bugs. You see what living with someone feels like, before getting the [marriage] tag, he adds. A musician, Patnaik has been sharing an apartment with his girlfriend for two years now. My mother was always cool, but my father had issues. I didnt tell him about it for the first six months, he says. Finally, when he did inform his father, Patnaik says he wasnt scared. I am living on my own. Im not asking them for money. And Im not doing anything wrong, he states. A few kilometres away, somewhere in central Delhi, 25-year-old graphic designer Tahira Baheti* has been living with her partner, Aavan Singh*, for over five years. Peculiarly, she also lives with her boyfriends parents. What began as unplanned sleepovers at Singhs house gradually spilled onto other aspects of her life. Baheti says, I started teaching his sister, shopping with his mother, and helping his dad out with his work. After college ended, his parents told me to not look for another apartment, and get all my stuff over to theirs. The parents intention, though, was not to get the couple married. It was to let them spend time with each other. Today, several unmarried Indian couples live together in metropolitan cities, with the consent of their parents. Living in together has become a tried and tested formula. Last year, even the Supreme Court ruled that live-in relationships have become an acceptable norm. It is like getting married, affirms Patnaik. But societal pressures often force many in such relationships to refrain from talking about it openly. That is the reason why all the people we spoke to for this story preferred not to reveal their names. Some people, however, feel that a live-in relationship is a decision against marriage. But, is it? A healthy trend A new study by Arielle Kuperberg that appeared in the US-based Journal of Marriage and Family this April, has found the opposite to be true. These days, most people who move in together, do so to test the longevity of a relationship. In other words, they view a live-in relationship as a step towards marriage, rather than a rebellion against it. The study, which analysed over 7,000 people in the US, states that cohabitation has grown by 900% in the past five decades. The study also found out that two-thirds of the couples who got married in 2012, had lived together before marrying. This phenomenon, in turn, has reduced the divorce rate in the US. Experts say that only people who are serious [about their relationship] and are thinking long-term move in together. (Imagesbazaar) Value Addition Is a live-in relationship being looked at as a prerequisite for marriage in India? City-based psychiatrist and sexologist Shyam Mithiya disagrees. But it is definitely a step towards marriage. I have seven to 10 patients who live together. Their intention, while moving in together, was to get to know each other better. Eventually, they got married, he says, adding, Moving in with someone is not easy. Only people who are serious [about their relationship] and are thinking long-term do it. It is also more common among couples who dont live with their families. Kavya Seth* (31) and Shobhit Chandra* (32), who live in Hyderabad, are one such couple. They are getting married in a few months, after having lived together since 2013. We knew we were serious about our relationship, and the arrangement of living together wasnt so much of a test drive as it was about wanting to be together all the time. But I did approach the [live-in] relationship with marriage as the end goal, says Kavya, who is a digital marketing executive. Natural next step Meanwhile, in Mumbai, Kanishk Sharma* (26), a consultant, has just moved in with his girlfriend of several years. Its been three months. But weve been dating for a long time, so moving in was a natural progression of sorts, he tells us. He hasnt thought about a wedding yet, but he affirms his intention is a long-term cohabitation. It is an experiment; a demo before signing a document that legally binds you to another, he says, adding that his life has become more adult than it was before and that while he and his partner had a rocky start, things are getting ironed out now. I do feel like I know what I want out of a life partner now, he adds. READ: Nothing is traditional about love anymore. Heres the new book of love According to a study, the live-in culture , in turn, has reduced the divorce rate in the US. (Imagesbazaar) Recommended move Baheti, too, hasnt thought about marriage yet. But I believe that being in a live-in relationship is an absolute prerequisite [for any kind of long-term cohabitation]. I have seen my mother struggle through two terrible marriages one arranged and one love marriage and I can pinpoint the same root cause for both the disasters; she simply did not know the men well enough, she says, adding, I would advise everyone to live with their partners for a while [before getting married]. Its a different world. *names changed on request Read: Live-in relationships still a taboo in tricity Kashmir is often called heaven on earth.One show that effectively captured the beauty of the valley was Gul Gulshan Gulfam. The 1991 show, which used to air on Doordarshan (DD), revolved around a Kashmiri family, who relied on tourism for their livelihood. They used to earn money by transporting tourists, from one end of a lake to the other, on their shikaras (boats). The drama juxtaposed the exquisiteness of the region with the grim reality of the state during the period of militancy. It focused on how the lives of several people were turned upside down when tourism took a hit. Produced by Prem Krishen and Sunil Mehta, the popular series was on air for 45 episodes. It starred Parikshit Sahni, Radha Seth, Pankaj Berry, Vishal Singh, Upender Khashu and Bashir Dada, among others. Many local actors were also cast to lend authenticity to the show. Read: Yatra: The series that showcased the uniqueness of a train journey Senior actor Parikshit Sahni says the toughest part of playing the role of an old man was to modulate his voice . It was a huge effort on his part and it took a toll. It was my father, Premnathjis (late actor) dream to make a show based in Kashmir. Also, at that time, DD wanted to air something that was different from the shows that were already airing on the channel. So, we made one that was set in Kashmir, says Krishen. Fifteen episodes were shot in Kashmir, and then the crew moved to Mumbai. They shot the rest of the show in Filmcity, Goregaon (E). I would have loved to shoot the entire show in Kashmir. But due to some terrorist disturbances in the region, we had to return, says Krishen. The makers had also, apparently, submitted the script of the show to the government for their approval before shooting it. Krishen credits writer Pran Kishore and director Ved Rahi for the success of the show. They were Kashmiris, and added their own experiences to the show, he says. The production unit shot for the show for six months before it went on air. Sahni, who had a pivotal role, went to Kashmir 20 days before the schedule started to observe the shikara owners. Working on this series was one of the best experiences of my life, as I belong to Kashmir. I know the language, and I know how to row a shikara. I was excited about going back, but it was depressing too. In 1989, Kashmir was gripped by terrorism; it was heartbreaking to see the region in that state, says Sahni, adding that the audience loved watching the show because it had a different setting. I played an old man, who ran shikaras on a lake. The serial showcased how his world gets disrupted, when his sons plan to move to a bigger city, he says. Sahni also loved the fact that the show promoted a healthy religious atmosphere. His character, who was a Muslim, had a Hindu friend. They were shown celebrating all the festivals together. The toughest part of playing the role was modulating my voice to sound like an old man. It was an effort, and it took a toll on me, he says. Read: Making Bharat Ek Khoj was a great adventure: Shyam Benegal SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Turkey on Thursday detained 13 suspected Islamic State jihadists over the deadly Istanbul airport attack, as officials said the three bombers were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan and gave chilling details of how they launched their assault. Interior Minister Efkan Ala told parliament that evidence continued to point to Islamic State responsibility for Tuesdays gun and suicide bomb spree at Ataturk airport, and that the death toll had risen to 43, of whom 19 were foreigners. More than 200 people were injured. Turkey has been plunged into mourning over the carnage at Ataturk airport, the deadliest yet of several attacks to strike the countrys biggest city this year. Counter-terrorism police carried out 16 raids across Istanbul early on Thursday and detained 13 people, four of them foreigners. CNN Turk said they were accused of providing logistical support for the bombings. A senior Turkish official said the three bombers were from Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. The official gave no further details. Forensics teams had earlier struggled to identify the bombers from their limited remains. The pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper said the Russian bomber was from Dagestan, which borders Chechnya, where Moscow has led two wars against separatists and religious militants. The Hurriyet newspaper named him as Osman Vadinov and said he had come from Raqqa, the heart of Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria. The Russian interior ministry said it was checking information about Vadinov. A spokesman for Kyrgyzstans state security service said it was investigating, while the Uzbek security service had no immediate comment. Thousands of foreign fighters have crossed Turkey to join IS in Syria and Iraq. Turkey tightened security on the border but has argued it needs more information from foreign intelligence agencies to intercept the fighters. Yeni Safak said the organiser of the attack was suspected to be a man called Akhmed Chatayev, of Chechen origin. Chatayev is identified on a UN sanctions list as a leader in Islamic State responsible for training Russian-speaking militants. Turkey has suffered a string of deadly attacks in the past year blamed on either IS or Kurdish rebels, and the airport attack comes just at the start of the crucial summer tourist season. Rifles in suitcases Details emerged of how the attackers arrived at Turkeys busiest airport by taxi before indiscriminately firing at passengers with automatic rifles and detonating suicide bombs. The terrorists failed to pass through the regular security system, scanners and police control, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim told reporters late on Wednesday. They returned and came back with long-range rifles they took out from their suitcases, and passed the security control by opening fire randomly at people, he said. One of them blew himself up outside and the other two took advantage of the panic during the opening of the fire, entered inside and blew themselves up. A senior source close to the presidency gave a slightly different version of events, saying two attackers blew themselves up on separate floors of the airport before the third followed suit outside. CCTV footage widely circulated on social media showed a huge ball of flame erupting at the entrance, scattering terrified passengers. Another video showed a black-clad attacker running inside the building before collapsing to the ground apparently felled by a police bullet and blowing himself up. The victims include several Saudis, a Chinese national, a Tunisian and a Ukrainian. Security lapse? Authorities are under pressure to convince visitors that Turkey is still safe, as the vital tourism industry has taken a heavy hit from a string of deadly attacks in the past year. Ege Seckin, an analyst at IHS Country risk, said the attack was most likely conducted by the Islamic State to undermine the Turkish economy by attacking the airport ahead of the summer months, when tourism peaks. Yildirim said Turkey would increase the presence of specially-trained staff at the nations airports. He moved swiftly after the bombings to deny there had been any lapse in security, but many Turks have been angered by the perceived failure to stop the bombings. It was an airport, one man could be heard shouting outside an Istanbul morgue on Wednesday, as devastated families went to collect the bodies of loved ones. Its not like this happened in the street. The opposition Cumhuriyet newspaper expressed anger at what it said was a failure by the nations leaders to take political responsibility for the attack. Is there anyone to resign? it asked, pointing out that after the IS bombings at Brussels airport and a metro station in March, three Belgian ministers offered their resignation. Turkey has suffered at least five attacks blamed on IS jihadists, including a blast in Ankara in October that left over 100 dead, the worst in the countrys modern history. In January, a bombing in the heart of Istanbuls tourist district, also blamed on IS, killed a dozen German visitors. Two months later, three Israelis and an Iranian were killed in another attack attributed to the jihadists on the citys main Istiklal shopping street. Who can lay claim to Rumi, the Sufi mystic who is one of the worlds most beloved poets? A bid by Iran and Turkey to do so has exasperated Afghanistan, the country of his birth eight centuries ago. Tehran and Ankara asked to list the work of Jalaluddin Muhammad Rumi as their joint heritage on the UNs Memory of the World register in May. The register, falling under the UNs cultural organisation UNESCO, was formed in 1997 to protect the worlds documentary heritage archives, correspondence and writing especially in troubled or conflict-ridden areas. But the Afghan government has denounced the bid, which mainly concerns the 25,600 verses of Masnavi-i-Manavi, one of the most influential works in Persian literature. An Afghan shepherd walking with his sheep near the ruins of the house of Sufi mystic and poet Rumi in Khowaja Gholak district of northern Balkh province. (AFP) Rumi is one of the best-selling poets in the US, and his works have been translated into more than 23 languages. Hollywood is planning a Rumi biopic also mired in controversy after rumoured plans for Leonardo DiCaprio to play him were met with accusations of whitewashing. The poet and philosopher was born in Balkh in Afghanistan and made us proud, the ministry of information and culture insisted. UNESCO never asked us about the proposal, Harron Haklimi, the ministrys spokesman, said, acknowledging that Kabul had been beaten to the punch but hoping they can yet convince the organisation that Afghanistan has the better claim to the poet. Son of Balkh For Afghans, who learn his poems in primary school, Rumi is Maulana Jalaludin Balkh, or Maulana (literally our master), or simply Balkhi. Most researchers agree he was born in Balkh, Afghanistan in 1207 though this too has been the subject of debate: a few argue he was born just across the border, in what is modern day Tajikistan, in a region also known as Balkh. The ruins of the house of Sufi mystic and poet Rumi in Khowaja Gholak district of northern Balkh province. (AFP) Today, the Afghan town of Balkh is a small provincial settlement, but back then it was an ancient religious capital and centre for Buddhist and Persian literature. It was sacked by Genghis Khan and his Mongol hordes in 1221. The young Rumi and his family fled to Turkey, where he spent most of his life he died in the city of Konya in 1273. It was there that his son founded the Order of the Whirling Dervishes to perpetuate his fathers teachings. But for Afghans, he remains a child of their country and it is still possible to visit the house in which they believe he was born. The powerful governor of Balkh province, former warlord General Ata Mohammad Noor, called on Afghanistans representative to the United Nations to protest. By limiting Maulana to only two countries, we do not do justice to a global personality who is truly cherished and admired across the world, he said. He is considered an important part of the culture and identity of Afghanistan, writer and poet Sadiq Usyan, professor at the Balkh University in nearby provincial capital Mazar-e-Sharif, told AFP. Separating the two is considered an insult and even a threat to Afghanistan, he said. A UNESCO representative in Kabul argued there had been some confusion. Any country, delegation or even individual can submit a request to be considered under this program, said spokesman Ricardo Grassi. He noted the backlash, adding: But this request has still to be considered. To accede to it without mentioning Afghanistan would be unacceptable, said the director of Balkhs provincial cultural department, Salih Mohammad Khaleeq. Maulana belongs to Afghanistan. #RumiWasntWhite Khaleeq has big plans for Balkh especially since Oscar-winning star DiCaprio was tipped to play Rumi in the new Hollywood film. The unconfirmed rumour spread rapidly on social media with accusations of film industry whitewashing, with the hashtag #RumiWasntWhite swiftly trending. So easy for Hollywood to find Muslims to play terrorists, but they cant cast a Muslim as Rumi? read one typical tweet. Another said: remember when idris elba wasnt english enough to play james bond, but its chill if leo dicaprio plays rumi. For Khaleeq, however, the film is an opportunity. We want this place to become a tourist site where tourists can come and visit, he said. A large portrait of Rumi already greets visitors arriving in Balkh. However, his childhood home has been ravaged by time, badly weathered with its ochre-coloured mud walls collapsed, the interior open to the wind. The controversy has warmed spirits in the region, with an online petition collecting nearly 6,000 signatures. President Ashraf Ghani, who in mid-June hosted Turkeys foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, has been carefully diplomatic, with a statement saying Rumi is a shared pride of the two countries. It added he was ready to register Rumis works as a shared heritage of Turkey and Afghanistan. He made no mention of Iran. Clues to what Rumi himself might have made of the dispute may lay in his writings. In 2007, Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey came together with UNESCO to mark the 800th anniversary of his birth. Then, the cultural organisation issued a medal in his honour while citing one of his famous couplets: I do not distinguish between the relative and the stranger. An Australian teenager accused of discussing packing a kangaroo with explosives and setting it loose on police is facing life behind bars after pleading guilty Thursday to planning a terrorist act. Sevdet Besim was arrested in Melbourne last year when he was 18 and accused of planning to run down police officers with a car, behead them and then shoot other people at an April 25 Anzac Day parade for Australias soldiers. He pleaded guilty to one charge of doing an act in preparation for or planning a terrorist act, a Supreme Court of Victoria spokeswoman told AFP, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. A British boy, who was 14 when accused of masterminding the plot via encrypted messages with Besim from his home in northern England, became his countrys youngest person convicted of terrorism when sentenced to five years in jail last year. Australian prosecutors have alleged Besim also had online conversations about using the kangaroo during an attack. They have a general discussion around animals and wildlife in Australia including a suggestion that a kangaroo could be packed with C4 explosive, painted with the IS (Islamic State) symbol and set loose on police officers, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported, citing court documents. Canberra has been increasingly concerned about home-grown extremism and raised the terror threat alert level to high in September 2014. Authorities have conducted a series of counter-terrorism raids in various cities, while the government has passed new national security laws. Besim is due back in court in August. A suicide bomber belonging to Nigerian jihadist group Boko Haram killed at least 11 people when he blew himself up close to a mosque in Cameroon near the Nigerian border, military sources and local officials said on Thursday. The attack occurred late on Wednesday and followed the breaking of the fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. After the prayer, the faithful gathered under a tent in Djakana, said a local official. A suicide bomber exploded and killed 11 people. Four others were injured. A Cameroonian army officer said the bomber was a young boy. Since a regional offensive last year drove the insurgents from most of their strongholds, Boko Haram has been waging a guerrilla-style campaign targeting civilians. In Cameroon, teenage girls have killed dozens in suicide bombings. More than 15,000 people have been killed and 2 million displaced in Nigeria and neighbouring Chad, Niger and Cameroon during Boko Harams seven-year campaign to carve out an Islamic caliphate in northeast Nigeria. The multinational joint task force, which has troops from all four Lake Chad countries, said on Wednesday it had swept through six villages and arrested 24 presumed accomplices of Boko Haram. In the operation, one soldier was killed and another injured by an improvised explosive device. Boko Haram pledged its allegiance to Islamic State last year, although the practical extent of its links with the ultra-radical, Syria- and Iraq-based group is not known. A Briton, arrested after allegedly trying to steal a police officers gun to shoot Republican Partys presumptive presidential nominee Donald Trump, has been charged with illegal possession of a weapons and disruption. Michael Sandford, 20, from Dorking in Surrey, was taken into custody at a Trump campaign event last week at the Treasure Island Casino in Las Vegas. He told police that his aim had been to kill Trump, the Guardian reported on Thursday. A federal grand jury found on Wednesday that there was enough evidence to charge Michael Sandford with two counts of illegal alien in possession of a firearm and one count of impeding and disrupting the orderly conduct of government business and official functions. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $750,000. He has not yet entered a plea, but he was denied bail by federal magistrate George Foley on Monday on the grounds that he would be a flight risk. Sandford was in the US illegally, according to the indictment, which is what led to the two possession counts - one for the gun he attempted to grab, and the other for when he went to the Battlefield Vegas gun range the day before the Trump event to practice shooting. He had driven from San Bernardino, California, for the specific purpose of killing Trump, according to the secret service report, which said that Sandford had also booked a ticket to a Trump event in Phoenix, Arizona, later that day as a backup. Trump rallies have become more violent in recent months, with clashes between protesters and supporters at rallies in San Jose and San Diego in California, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Trump himself has been accused of inciting violence, telling a crowd in March that he would pay the legal fees of those who attack protesters. Hes never shown any violent tendencies before, hes never been a bad person, hes a nice kid and literally wouldnt hurt a fly - he used to tell us not to use fly spray because he didnt want any flies to die, his father, Paul Davey, told the Portsmouth News. Davey said someone must have coerced or radicalised his son into attacking the presidential candidate, adding Whether hes been blackmailed or put up to it, thats the only thing me and his mum can think of. Sandford is scheduled to be arraigned on July 6. Opinion / Columnist The Restoration Of Human Right International is arguably amongst some of the fastest growing human rights groups advocating for the protection of human rights and respect for the rule of law particularly in Zimbabwe and the world in general.The Restoration Of Human Rights International currently has operational chapters throughout the United Kingdom and all provinces of Zimbabwe and new chapters are being set up in South Africa, Botswana and Australia.With the organisation beginning to receive general recognition for its efforts to fight for the restoration of human rights to the downtrodden Zimbabwean populace, we as ROHR Zimbabwe Chapter are extremely disappointed with media reports that seek todistract our focus in the fight to bring sanity in respect of human rights in our country.Latest media reports run an unfounded issue that the Restoration Of Human Rights Zimbabwe Chapter was or is in a state of crisis that has warranted the founding President of the organisation Mr Ephraim Tapa to rush into the country to convene a special meeting described as a kangaroo meeting' by the media to rescue the organisation.The facts of the matter are that the article about the happenings inside ROHR Zimbabwe are a falsehood founded on information supplied to the media houses by disgruntled sources within the organisation bent on wanting to fight for personal glory at the expense of the entire organisation and consequently the fight for human rights protection in the country.Contrary to the media reports, ROHR Zimbabwe held its quarterly National Executive Meeting in the CBD of Gweru on Saturday 18th June where, amongst many other resolutions, a resolution to exclude two members of the ROHR Zimbabwe Chapter was passed.The two, who incidentally failed to attend the meeting, were dismissed from the ROHR Zimbabwe Chapter on purely disciplinary issues which ranged from lack of accountability to charges of immorality in the course of executing their ROHR duties.With a primary focus of attaining the highest possible standards of responsibility and dignity as human rights defenders, ROHR Zimbabwe remains unapologetic in excluding these twomembers from the organisation and indeed, as advised to them, wish them well in their future human rights advocacy endeavors outside of ROHR.As resolved at the National Executive Meeting, ROHR Zimbabwe is continuing an accelerated programme of capacity building in the fight for respect of human rights in Zimbabwe which are continually violated by the Zimbabwean government which disregards the rule of law and constitutionalism.The Restoration Of Human Rights Zimbabwe Chapter invites those with like concerns to come forward and partner with ROHR Zimbabwe to bring much needed confidence to Zimbabweans to believe in and recognise their basic human rights as enshrined in the constitution and the United Nations declaration of human rights.ROHR Zimbabwe remains focused and undisturbed by the desperate outbursts of destructive elements in their pursuit of personal enrichment and glory.ROHR Zimbabwe remains bound by the belief that the fight for the restoration of human rights in Zimbabwe calls for selfless individuals wanting to see a change in the attitude of those governing the people of Zimbabwe. In one of its longest election campaigns, Australia has seen some of the best shots fired from Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Labour leader Bill Shorten who have been on the hustings for almost eight weeks now. Ahead of polling on Saturday, here are five of the best quotes from the campaign trail: 1) Australian treasurer Scott Morrison (Reuters) That is voodoo economics. Its worse than that -- its Zoolander economics - Treasurer Scott Morrison on Labors economic plan. 2) It is the kind of economics you might hear spoken around the public bar on a drunken night 10 minutes before closing time - Senior Labour MP Richard Marles on the Liberal coalitions plan for the economy. Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull (L) and Australia's opposition Labor Party leader Bill Shorten are the key contenders in the race to the top in Australia. (AFP file photos) 3) Bill Shorten is turning into an episode of Fawlty Towers -- if it werent so serious it would be funny - Immigration minister Peter Dutton, likening Shorten to the show about an incompetent hotel owner. 4) Hes going off like a fish milkshake - Labour MP Jason Clare on Turnbull disappointing voters. 5) Man boobs Bill - Former Labour leader Mark Lathams description of Shorten after footage of him jogging. French President Francois Hollande on Thursday ruled out organising a referendum on the European Union in France, saying next years presidential election will be the opportunity for voters to decide on which European policy they want. There have been growing calls in France for a referendum on the European Union since Britons voted to exit the EU a week ago. Mainstream politicians, including economy minister Emmanuel Macron and the 2017 presidential election front-runner Alain Juppe, a centre-right former prime minister, have called for a plebiscite on a new EU project. Only the far-right National Front is calling for a vote on EU membership. Why organise such a tumult and confrontation if its not to leave the EU? Lies, simplifications, excesses and even the violence we saw in the referendum campaign in Britain were not enough for those sorcerers apprentices? Hollande told Les Echos daily, when asked whether there should be a referendum in France. Many in France are increasingly disillusioned with Europe which they see as too pro-market and not protective enough, making the outcome of such a referendum hard to predict. In 2005, a proposed new EU constitution was blocked by referendums in France and the Netherlands. Some 55% of French voters do not want a referendum on EU membership while 45% think it would be a good idea, a survey by Elabe pollsters showed on Wednesday. The vote on Europe in France will be the presidential election, Hollande told Les Echos. The British experience will then be an example - or rather a counter-example, he said. Indians wont get to vote in the 2016 US presidential election, but they can hold a view. And they do, preferring Hillary Clinton to Donald Trump, says a new poll. Clinton, in fact, beats Trump in 15 of the 16 countries polled by US-based Pew Research Center. The 16th country was the US, but results were not immediately available. Also, President Barack Obama remains popular with Indians, with 58% of those polled 2,464 respondents saying they are confident he will do the right thing regarding world affairs. Obama polled high in all other countries as well as at home, except in Greece, which is struggling with a crippling economic crisis complicated by a spate of refugees from Syria and Iraq. Clinton, Obamas former secretary of state, did well in all the nations polled, beating her presumptive Republican rival for the White House convincingly and comprehensively. Confidence in Clinton to handle world affairs is generally high, a Pew report said on Wednesday. By comparison, few trust Trump to do the right thing when it comes to foreign policy. In india, where the poll was conducted in face-to-face interviews between April 7 and May 24, 28% said they had confidence in Clinton to do the right thing on world affairs Trump got the support of only 14%, half of Clintons. But, interestingly, his no-confidence vote was also quite low at 18%, while 67% of those polled offered no opinion. Were they ambivalent about Trump, wanted to give him more time, or did they really have no views on him, his controversial views and remarks reverberating around the world? Indians have known Clinton for a while now, as the first lady who visited India before her husband, and as secretary of state, who spoke of India claiming its rightful place in the world. Trump, who has two projects in India including Trump Tower in Mumbai, is known to have visited India only once in 2014, when he famously said, I have a lot of money so I will invest. His controversial campaign trail remarks have intrigued Indians, many of whom, anecdotally, are following the US presidential election race more closely than before. And, no, Indians by and large didnt seem thrown off by the 2016 race, which was viewed negatively in some countries such as Australia (76%) and Canada (69%), both strong US allies. Most Indians 42% said they had a positive view of the campaign (only 12% looked at it negatively), as did respondents in China and Japan. Asians may have a high tolerance bar. Islamic State militants on Wednesday pushed back US-trained Syrian rebels from the outskirts of a town on the Iraqi border, in a setback to a budding offensive that aims to sever the militants transit link between the two countries, a rebel spokesman said. The Islamic State-linked Aamaq news agency said IS militants repelled the New Syrian Army from an airbase which the rebels had briefly captured earlier in the day. IS said it seized 15 hostages and ammunition, and was still advancing against the rebels. Earlier on Wednesday, the Pentagon-trained force entered the Hamdan air base northwest of the border town of Boukamal following intense clashes, rebel spokesperson said. He said airborne fighters were dropped from coalition helicopters on Boukamals southern edge, helping the rebels advance. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which relies on local activists, confirmed the account. The Observatorys chief, Rami Abdurrahman, said foreign airborne fighters were also dropped to the north, enabling the takeover of the base. The rebels were heavily backed by US-led coalition airstrikes and were coordinating their fight with Iraqi tribesmen and forces on the other side of the border, al-Saloum said. The US-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes against IS in Iraq and Syria since 2014 and 300 US Special Forces are embedded with a Kurdish-led militia in northern Syria. It was not immediately clear whether US forces were involved in the Boukamal offensive or what other nations might be taking part in it. The US Central Command said coalition jets carried out several airstrikes on IS targets in the Boukamal area. Col. Chris Garver, a spokesperson for the US-led coalition in Baghdad, said the US has provided advice and assistance to the New Syrian Army as well as airstrikes in both Syria and Iraq in support of the operation. He told The Associated Press there was a very tough fight around Boukamal and that the New Syrian Army suffered a setback. He denied that fighters had been brought in by helicopter. The observatory said several hundred rebels from different factions were involved in the offensive, which began on Tuesday. It said IS fighters have dug trenches and planted land mines south of the town. Al-Saloum acknowledged that the New Syrian Army forces were unable to keep the base and other outposts to the south, near the Qaim border crossing with Iraq, but said the offensive would continue. Wednesdays setback was another blow to the rebel group. Two weeks ago, Washington accused Russian aircraft of bombing the rebels near the Iraqi border. Russia has been carrying out airstrikes in support of Syrian President Bashar Assads forces since September. IS seized much of the Iraq-Syria border in its 2014 blitz, along with large swaths of territory in both countries, declaring an Islamic caliphate. But IS has in recent weeks been losing ground, both in Iraq and in Syria. The US-backed and Kurdish-led forces have besieged Manbij, an IS stronghold in northern Syria, while Iraqi forces have taken Fallujah, in Iraqs western Anbar province, from the Sunni extremist group. Meanwhile, aid was delivered to the besieged Syrian towns of Zamalka and Irbin for the first time since 2012, when the two rebel-held areas east of Damascus were besieged by government forces. The 37-truck convoy organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross, the UN and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent carried enough food and medical aid for 20,000 people. Further north, another joint convoy carrying food and medicine was delivered to the besieged suburb of west Harasta, which has a population of about 12,500, according to ICRC spokesperson Ingy Sedky. Three suspected Islamic State suicide bombers who killed 43 people in a gun and bomb attack at Istanbuls main airport this week were Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz nationals, a Turkish government official said on Thursday. The attack on one of the worlds busiest airports, a hub at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, was the deadliest in a series of suicide bombings in Turkey this year. The three bombers opened fire to create panic outside, before two of them got inside the terminal building and blew themselves up. The third detonated his explosives at the entrance. A further 239 people were wounded. The official gave no further details beyond confirming the attackers nationalities and declined to be named because details of the investigation have not yet been released. Forensics teams had been struggling to identify the bombers from their limited remains, officials said earlier. Read: Istanbul attack hallmarks of IS depravity: CIA warns of similar attacks in US A medical team is working around the clock to conclude the identification process, one of the officials said. Interior Minister Efkan Ala told parliament that evidence continued to point to Islamic State responsibility and that the death toll had risen to 43, of whom 19 were foreigners. Ala said the identity and nationality of one of the bombers had been determined but did not comment further. The pro-government Yeni Safak newspaper said the Russian bomber was from Dagestan, which borders Chechnya, where Moscow has led two wars against separatists and religious militants since the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991. Turkeys Hurriyet newspaper named him as Osman Vadinov and said he had come from Raqqa, the heart of Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria. The Russian interior ministry said it was checking information about Vadinov. A spokesman for Kyrgyzstans state security service said it was investigating, while the Uzbek security service had no immediate comment. Thousands of foreign fighters from scores of countries have crossed Turkey to join Islamic State in Syria and Iraq in recent years. Turkey has tightened security on the Syrian border but has long argued it needs more information from foreign intelligence agencies to intercept the fighters. Read: How to protect travellers? Turkey attacks raise questions on airport security Turkish police detained 13 people, four of them foreigners, in raids across Istanbul in connection with Tuesday nights attack. Broadcaster CNN Turk said they were accused of providing logistical support for the bombings. Counter-terrorism teams led by police special forces launched simultaneous raids at 16 locations in the city, two officials told Reuters. Yeni Safak said the organiser of the attack was suspected to be a man called Akhmed Chatayev, of Chechen origin. Chatayev is identified on a United Nations sanctions list as a leader in Islamic State responsible for training Russian-speaking militants, and as wanted by Russian authorities. Turkish officials did not confirm to Reuters that Chatayev was part of the investigation. Wars in neighbouring Syria and Iraq have fostered a home-grown Islamic State network blamed for a series of suicide bombings in Turkey, including two others this year targeting foreign tourists in the heart of Istanbul. Islamic State has established a self-declared caliphate on swathes of both Syria and Iraq and declared war on all non-Muslims plus Muslims who do not accept its ultra-hardline vision of Sunni Islam. It has claimed responsibility for similar bomb and gun attacks in Belgium and France in the past year. Turkey, a member of the NATO military alliance and part of the U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State, has repeatedly fired back on the Sunni hardliners in recent months after rocket fire from northern Syria hit the border town of Kilis. As the Kanishka Project, launched by the Canadian government in June 2011 to research strategies to tackle terrorism, completes its five-year mandate, it may prove a lasting legacy of the Air India flight 182 terror attack that claimed 329 lives in 1985. The project was announced in Montreal during the unveiling of a memorial to the victims of the Kanishka bombing, which retains the dubious distinction of being Canadas worst terrorist attack till date. It came with a CA $10-million fund for initiatives related to understanding terrorism, particularly in the Canadian context. Jean Paul Duval, a spokesperson for Public Safety Canada, the nodal agency for the project, described it as an initiative that invested in applied research on pressing questions for Canada on terrorism and counter-terrorism, such as countering radicalisation to violence. While the Kanishka bombing was undertaken by Khalistani terrorists, much of the funding for the project reflected how extremism has evolved over the decades, as Duval noted: Kanishka funded cutting edge research in areas such as patterns of recruitment and involvement of foreign terrorist fighters in Syria/Iraq; the role of the internet and social media in violent radicalisation; and grassroots efforts by communities themselves to counter extremist propaganda. Issues that have been at the forefront in recent weeks, like the lone wolf terrorism in the case of Omar Mateen, who attacked the Pulse gay nightclub in Orlando, and airport security, important in light of the Istanbul attack this week, also have been on the agenda. But most significantly, the project created an institutionalised interface between academia and researchers, and public policy and government agencies. In 2012, funding from the Kanishka Project was partly responsible for creation of the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security and Society or TSAS. The network now encompasses 10 universities and a similar number of government departments and has over 225 research affiliates. TSAS co-director, Professor Lorne Dawson, said, Canada lacked a native research facility. There was no concerted networked effort. This effort has led to influencing public policy, for instance, through face-to-face interaction at workshops like one on countering jihadist narratives in Ottawa in 2014. TSAS also now funds research, providing seed grants to nearly 30 projects in the past three years while also sponsoring studentships. Dawson said the Kanishka Project coming into existence was really impactful. It was successful in getting these issues in the map, he said. As the project wound down this year, the government is planning to establish an office of community outreach and counter-radicalisation that will continue funding similar research activity. It would be terrible if that was not sustained, Dawson said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Malaysia Airlines, which has been struggling since twin disasters in 2014, has appointed a new CEO following the resignation of a troubleshooter brought in to turn around the ailing carrier. Peter Bellew, currently the airlines chief operating officer and a former director of flight operations at Ryanair, will take over effective Friday. His appointment will ensure continuity and further progress of the overall restructuring effort, state investment fund Khazanah Nasional said in a statement. German turnaround specialist Christoph Mueller, who was hired last year, launched a painful rescue plan that entailed slashing 6,000 jobs and dramatically trimming the carriers route network. But in April, he said he was leaving, well before the end of his three-year contract, for unspecified personal reasons. Khazanah took Malaysia Airlines private in 2014, as part of a 6.0 billion ringgit ($1.5 billion) plan to help it return to profit. The devastating MH370 and MH17 disasters in 2014 pushed the perennially loss-making airline to the brink of bankruptcy as bookings dried up. Flight MH370 disappeared on March 8 of that year, en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 passengers and crew. Debris found in the Indian Ocean has confirmed the Boeing 777 went down but what happened remains a mystery. Four months later, MH17 was blown from the sky by a suspected Russian-made ground-to-air missile over war-torn Ukraine, killing all 298 passengers and crew. Read | Everything you need to know about the Malaysia Airlines MH370 mystery A 13-year-old girl who was fatally stabbed in her home today by a Palestinian attacker in a Jewish settlement in the West Bank is a US citizen, the State Department said. We have now confirmed that she is a US citizen, department spokesman John Kirby said of the girl identified as Hallel Yaffa Ariel. This brutal act of terrorism is simply unconscionable. The army said the Palestinian killed the girl in her bed after breaking into her home in the Kiryat Arba settlement outside the city of Hebron. Security personnel rushed to the house and fired on the attacker, who wounded a guard before being shot dead, the army said. The girl was taken to hospital in Jerusalem in critical condition and died of her wounds. The Palestinian health ministry identified the attacker as Mohammed Nasser Tarayra, 19, from the village of Bani Naim, just outside the city. Israeli media, which identified the girl as Hallel Yaffa Ariel, reported that she was attacked in her sleep. The Israeli military released a photograph of her blood-spattered bedroom. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held talks with Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman after the attack and the home village of the assailant was sealed off. Israeli work permits for members of Tarayras extended family were also to be revoked and authorities began procedures aimed at demolishing his home, a measure often taken against attackers. The horrifying murder of a young girl in her bed underscores the bloodlust and inhumanity of the incitement-driven terrorists that we are facing, Netanyahu said in a statement. The entire nation deeply identifies with the familys pain and declares to the murderers: You will not break us. The family of Palestinian Mohammed Nasser Tarayra, who stabbed to death an Israeli teen in a Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank on June 30,2016 is seen outside their family home in the village of Bani Naim, near the Palestinian city of Hebron. (AFP) Flashpoint city Hebron in the occupied West Bank has been a flashpoint in a spate of deadly unrest that has rocked Israel and the Palestinian territories since October last year. Several hundred Jewish settlers live in a tightly guarded enclave in the heart of the city of more than 200,000 Palestinians, a persistent source of tensions. Kiryat Arba, where Thursdays attack occurred, is on the outskirts of the city and has a population of more than 7,000. The violence since October has killed at least 211 Palestinians, 33 Israelis, two Americans, an Eritrean and a Sudanese. Most of the Palestinians were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities. Others were killed in clashes with security forces or by Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip. The number of attacks has declined but the deadliest yet hit Tel Aviv earlier this month when Palestinian gunmen killed four people at a popular nightspot. The two attackers -- cousins from the Hebron area -- were arrested. Analysts say Palestinian frustration with Israeli occupation and settlement-building in the West Bank, the complete lack of progress in peace efforts and their own fractured leadership have fed the unrest. Israeli soldiers inspect the area around the Jewish settlement of Kiryat Arba. (AFP) Israel says incitement by Palestinian leaders and media is a leading cause of the violence. On a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories this week, UN chief Ban Ki-moon condemned the recent wave of attacks as terrorism. But he urged Israel to address the key underlying causes of violence including growing Palestinian anger, the paralysis of the peace process, the nearly a half-century of occupation. Negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians have been at a standstill since a US-led initiative collapsed in April 2014. France is planning to hold an international conference before the end of the year in a bid to restart the peace process. Israel opposes the French initiative, calling instead for bilateral negotiations, while Palestinian leaders have expressed support for it. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday officially lifted restrictions on tourism in Turkey after mending ties with Ankara over its downing of one of Moscows warplanes. Putin signed a decree lifting a ban on the sale of package tours in Turkey and ordered the government to allow charter flights to start flying to the country again. The move signals a rapid reversal after seven months of acrimony between Moscow and Ankara over the downing of a Russian fighter jet in Syria last November. Putin pledged on Wednesday to lift the sanctions after speaking by phone to his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the first time since the incident. The Kremlin strongman has also ordered the government to normalise trade ties with Turkey, in a move that should see an embargo on some Turkish food lifted soon. The downing of the Russian plane near the Turkey-Syria border slammed the brakes on burgeoning relations between Moscow and Ankara and sparked a bitter war of words between the leaders. The diplomatic breakthrough came after Erdogan on Monday sent a letter to the Kremlin leader that Moscow said contained an apology over the downing of the jet in November. The crisis in relations with Moscow had dealt a blow to Turkish tourism, with the number of Russian tourists drastically declining in holiday resorts along the Mediterranean coast. The lifting of Moscows package tour ban came after Turkey was hit by a triple suicide bombing at Istanbuls main international airport on Tuesday which left at least 44 people dead. A man whose Facebook comment calling for violence against the local LGBT community went viral after a shooting at a popular gay club in Florida was charged in Singapore on Thursday. Bryan Lim, 36, faces up to five years in jail and a fine if convicted of inciting violence through the Internet. Lim had posted the comment on a Facebook group page set up to oppose Pink Dot, an annual gay rights rally in Singapore. Give me permission to open fire. I would like to see these @EUR$^*s die for their causes, Lim wrote. In the post, he identified himself as a father and a Singaporean citizen who had undergone mandatory military service and had sworn to protect my nation. The comment was posted on June 4 but only went viral after the June 12 shooting in Orlando, Florida which killed 49 people. Several Internet users made police reports against him. Lim later apologised, claiming that his comment had been taken out of context. I did not mean physical bullets nor physical death, he wrote. I mean open fire in debate and remove them from Singapore domestic matters. Lims computers and phone have been seized by police and he will next appear in court in August. Singapore, an ethnically diverse city-state, has tough laws against violence and hate speech. On Tuesday, a website owner was jailed for eight months for publishing fabricated articles that stirred hatred against foreigners in Singapore. But Singapores leaders have had to maintain a difficult balance between increasingly vocal conservatives and gay rights supporters. Earlier in June, the government warned foreign firms against sponsoring Pink Dot, while a local staging of Les Miserables was forced to cut a scene involving a kiss between two male actors because of public complaints. Sex between men remains illegal in Singapore, a holdover from colonial rule that is not strictly enforced. In an interview with journalists last year, Singapore prime minister Lee Hsien Loong said the country was not ready to legalise same-sex marriage, but added that the local gay community did not face harassment or discrimination. LOS ANGELESMalibu Media, parent company of X-Art, has filed a federal lawsuit against the Miami-based law firm Lipscomb Eisenberg & Baker for alleged breach of fiduciary duty, among other claims. Malibu Media alleges the firm was negligent and engaged in fraudulent business practices related to its handling of the company's copyright enforcement program. Malibu also accused the firm of disclosing information protected under attorney-client privilege in a lawsuit the firm filed June 10 against the company in Florida state court; it also requested that the California court order an accounting of the copyright enforcement program, claiming the firm refused to provide full financial information, the report said. The amount of money due from defendants, and each of them, to plaintiff is unknown to plaintiff and cannot be ascertained without an accounting of all funds received and costs and expenses paid pursuant to the enforcement program from 2012 to the present," Malibu said in the suit. Representatives from Malibu were not available for comment at post time. Keith Lipscomb told AVN Wednesday the federal suit is "a compulsory counter claim to the Florida state suit" and "is nothing more than a disgusting attempt to gain leverage in the Florida state case LEB brought against Malibu, [its current counsel Pillar Law Group] and two Florida entities." He also noted that the Florida suit is sealed because it contains allegations of malfeasance, adding he expects the federal suit will be dismissed "under the doctrine of abstention in deference to the Florida case." According to Malibu's complaint, the companies' relationship started in late 2011 when LEB contacted Malibu and offered its services to enforce its copyrights. A member of Indonesias notoriously corrupt police is to be honoured for refusing to accept bribes during his 40-year career, instead scavenging garbage to supplement his meagre salary, an official said on Thursday. While many countries give awards for police bravery, Indonesian authorities have decided to honour policeman Seladi, 57, after he became a media sensation when the story of his determination not to accept kickbacks emerged. The police in Indonesia are considered one of the countrys most graft-ridden institutions. They are accused of regularly extorting bribes from the public, being involved in the drugs trade, and have been embroiled in numerous high-profile corruption cases. But father-of-three Seladi -- who like many Indonesians goes by only one name -- insists he always refused bribes despite only earning the equivalent of about $400 a month and facing much temptation, as he worked in the department that issued driving licences in the city of Malang, on Java island. This picture taken on May 18, 2016 shows Indonesian policeman Seladi (R) speaking to a motorist in Malang, East Java. (AFP) In the driving licence department, there is a lot of temptation, he told AFP. Many people want to give me money or gifts so they can pass their driving test. But I always refused -- my parents taught me not to take bribes. He was unable to afford his own house, meaning he had to live with his wife and children at the home of his parents-in-law. In 2004, Seladi began scavenging from garbage dumps to top up his state income, earning on average an extra $5 a day, mostly by selling on recyclable items. East Java province police spokesperson Argo Yuwono said Seladi would be honoured at a ceremony on Indonesias national police day on Friday for not accepting bribes, and for his dedication in supporting his family by doing extra work. The spokesman did not say what exactly Seladi would receive. Indonesia was ranked 88th out of 168 countries and territories in NGO Transparency Internationals Corruption Perceptions Index last year. A number one ranking represents the least corrupt. India on Thursday abstained from voting at the UN Human Rights Council which agreed to appoint an independent investigator to help protect homosexuals and transgender people worldwide from violence and discrimination. After a heated debate lasting almost four hours, the 47-member state forum overcame strong objections by Saudi Arabia and Muslim countries to adopt a Western-backed resolution by a vote of 23 states in favour and 18 against with six abstentions. The United Nations expert, still to be named, will have a three-year mandate. Mexico, which led Latin American states that were the main sponsors of the text, said that thousands of people are exposed to violence and discrimination due to their sexual orientation and gender identity. Remember Orlando, Mexican Ambassador Jorge Lomonaco told delegates, referring to the massacre of 49 people at a gay club in Florida on June 12. Let us give hope to millions. The United States and major European countries backed the resolution, while China, Russia and 16 African and predominantly Muslim states rejected it. Apart from India, South Africa and the Philippines were among the abstainers. Read: Rainbow of hope: Will India vote for an LGBT resolution at UN? This Council regularly and rightly passes resolutions on racism, women and children. Yet, on this issue, we often hear of culture and tradition as reasons to justify violence against individuals based on their sexual orientation and gender identity, British Ambassador Julian Braithwaite said in debate. This affects people in this room, and people in my team who are LGBT. Are you saying it is okay to discriminate against them based on their sexual orientation and gender identity? To hit, torture, or possibly kill them? Because that is what you are supporting, if you vote against this resolution. Early in the session, Saudi Ambassador Faisal Trad brought a no-action motion to quash any debate on the resolution, but his move was defeated. Trad argued against what he called the imposition of certain ideas and said the new post would open up a Pandoras box while ignoring cultural and religious specificities. We will not barter man-made legislation against divine laws, Trad said, invoking sharia (Islamic law). Nigeria called the resolution divisive and said that the sponsors also wanted to promote same-sex adoptions. Pakistan - speaking on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) of 57 states - decried the promoting of certain notions, concepts and lifestyles on which there is no consensus. In 2011, the U.N. rights body declared there should be no discrimination or violence against people based on their sexual orientation. At the time, Western countries called the vote historic but Islamic states firmly rejected it. The US state department on Thursday named al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) a foreign terrorist organisation and designated its leader, India-born Asim Umar, a specially designated global terrorist. These designations prohibit American citizens from dealing with both the group and its leader usually for donations and lead to forfeiture of property and assets held by them in the US. Al Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri announced the formation of AQIS in 2014. In a 55-minute video launching the group, Zawahiri had said it would launch jihadist activities in India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Umar is formerly of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, which too has been designated a foreign terrorist organisation. The 38-year-old was born as Sana-ul-Haq at Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh between 1974 and 1976, and graduated from the Darul Uloom seminary in Deoband in 1991. Umar later travelled to Pakistan, where he studied at the Darul Uloom Haqqania in Nowshera, a seminary dubbed as the university of jihad because it has produced many militant commanders. The state department said in the announcement, AQIS claimed responsibility for the September 6, 2014 attack on a naval dockyard in Karachi, in which militants attempted to hijack a Pakistani Navy frigate. The attack left a Pakistani officer and three attackers dead, while seven sailors were wounded as the militants attempted to hijack the warship. AQIS has also claimed responsibility for the murders of activists and writers in Bangladesh, including that of US citizen Avijit Roy, US Embassy local employee Xulhaz Mannan, and of Bangladeshi nationals Oyasiqur Rahman Babu, Ahmed Rajib Haideer, and AKM Shafiul Islam. The state department said, Todays action notifies the US public and the international community that AQIS and Umar are actively engaged in terrorism. Designations of terrorist individuals and groups expose and isolate organizations and individuals, and result in denial of access to the US financial system. Moreover, designations can assist or complement the law enforcement actions of other US agencies and other governments. (With inputs from agencies) China accused the US on Thursday of meddling in its affairs in the South China Sea and making factually incorrect comments on Indias bid to enter the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) while expressing strong displeasure at an American diplomats remarks on the two issues in New Delhi. Beijing described the comments by US under secretary of state for political affairs Thomas Shannon as irresponsible and said the US should stop trying to drive wedges between countries. Chinas sharp reactions came hours after Shannons remarks were reported by the Indian media on Thursday morning. Shannon had said on the NSG issue that the one country which blocked India from entering the club of nations controlling access to sensitive nuclear technology should be held accountable. We understand that in a consensus-based organisation, one country can break consensus. But in order to do so, it must be (held) accountable, not isolated, Shannon was quoted as having told a meeting at the Foreign Service Institute in New Delhi. Read | Member blocking Indias NSG bid should be held accountable: US diplomat China possibly found Shannons comments on the South China Sea even more provocative. What China is doing in the South China Sea region is madness. Building airstrips and landing aircraft on that. As far as their navy is concerned, all they are doing is building targets. Our own view is that China can keep the sea-lanes open through its navy in the region. It is our hope that China will be able to follow a rule-based international order, Shannon was quoted as having said. Beijing expectedly reacted angrily. On the issue of Indias application to join the NSG, foreign ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said the US official did not show any regard for facts. In the plenary meeting in Seoul (held last week), Indias accession was not on the agenda, Hong told a regular news briefing on Thursday. NSG members did not discuss the entry of any specific country into the group, he said. Read | India spoilt, smug; Beijing is right to oppose NSG bid: Chinese media What the meeting instead discussed, according to Hong, were technical, political and legal issues concerning the accession of countries which are not signatories to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Referring to Shannons comments on the South China Sea, Hong said: China is strongly dissatisfied with that. Chinas position, he said, was firstly to maintain our sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and secondly, to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultations. Hong added: The remarks made by the US official tries to drive a wedge between regional countries, confuse right from wrong and are extremely irresponsible. The US, he said should play a constructive role in the South China Sea and not the opposite. China is locked in disputes over the ownership of islands and reefs in the South China Sea with several countries such as Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. Read | Anti-India or pro-Pakistan? Behind Chinas NSG veto China will not accept any third party settlement with regard to territorial and maritime disputes and reject any ruling by an international tribunal on a case filed by the Philippines over the contentious South China Sea issue, a senior diplomat has said. The Arbitral Tribunal in the South China Sea, (SCS) arbitration established at the unilateral request of the Republic of the Philippines claimed that it would issue the so-called final award on 12 July 2016, a statement issued by Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said. I hereby once again emphasise that the Arbitral Tribunal has no jurisdiction over the case and the relevant subject-matter, and that it should not have heard the case or rendered the award, he said. His comments came after the tribunal said it will hand down a ruling on the case on July 12. China claims all most all of the SCS. Its claim is firmly contested by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan which have overlapping claims over the area. In his statement Hong said the Philippines unilaterally initiated the arbitration in 2013. The Chinese government immediately declared that it would neither accept nor participate in the arbitration initiated by the Philippines, a position that has since been repeatedly reiterated, he said. Subsequently, China also questioned the legality of the arbitration saying that has no jurisdiction over the case, and that the Chinese governments non-acceptance of and non-participation in the arbitration are solidly founded in international law. Ahead of the verdict of the tribunal several Chinese officials said openly that the judgement may go against Chinas stand. But the tribunal constituted under the UN Convention on Law of Seas (UNCLOS) has continued with its proceedings. Beijing had launched massive campaign to gain diplomatic support for its stand by approaching various Asian, African and Latin American countries to back its stand. The foreign ministry claimed over 70 countries back its stand on the arbitration. Hong said, The Philippines unilateral initiation of arbitration breaches international law. The essence of the subject-matter of the arbitration is beyond the scope of UNCLOS and does not concern the interpretation or application of UNCLOS, he said. With regard to territorial issues and maritime delimitation disputes, China does not accept any means of third party dispute settlement or any solution imposed on China, he said. The Chinese government will continue to abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, and will continue to work with states directly concerned to resolve the relevant disputes in the South China Sea through negotiation and consultation on the basis of respecting historical facts and in accordance with international law, so as to maintain peace and stability in the SCS, he said. ISTANBUL: Witnesses to the carnage at Istanbul airport described scenes of blind panic and stomach-churning terror after attackers detonated three bombs and began shooting indiscriminately in the main terminal building. Paul Roos, 77, a South African tourist on his way home, said he saw one of the attackers randomly shooting in the departures hall from about 50 metres away. He was wearing all black. His face was not masked... We ducked behind a counter but I stood up and watched him. Two explosions went off shortly after one another. By that time he had stopped shooting, Roos told Reuters. He turned around and started coming towards us. He was holding his gun inside his jacket. He looked around anxiously to see if anyone was going to stop him and then went down the escalator ... We heard some more gunfire and then another explosion, and then it was over. Forty-one people died in the bloodiest of four attacks in the city this year. Turkish authorities have pointed the finger at Islamic State militants. Abandoned luggage sprinkled with shards of shattered glass was strewn across the airports blood-splattered floor. Otfah Mohamed Abdullah was checking her luggage in when she saw one of the attackers pull out a hidden gun and begin shooting. Hes shooting up, two times, and hes beginning to shoot people like that, like he was walking like a prophet, she told AFPTV. ... and then my sister was running I don t know which way. She was running and after that I was falling down, I was on the ground until he finished. Until now I cant find my sister and I dont have anything, everything (I have) is inside. Japanese national Yumi Koyi was waiting for her flight to Tokyo when the attacks began and she was swept up in a scramble to escape. I heard gunshots so it was really panicking, everyone together. Latvian businessman Rihards Kalnins told AFP that those inside the terminal had no way of knowing what was happening. There was just panic about what was going on. People were running, screaming. I didnt know what was going on. NEW DELHI: Indians travelling from Istanbuls Ataturk airport had a close shave on Tuesday night as two flights to India departed two hours before the terror strike that killed 41 people. The attack occurred at around 10 pm Turkish time. Turkish Airlines flights to Delhi and Mumbai departed Istanbul last night as scheduled. Both leave Istanbul at around 8 pm, said an official. No Indian carrier flies to Turkey but Turkish Airlines, the national carrier, has regular flights in and out of India. No report has been received so far of any Indian among the casualties. Ataturk airport operations have resumed but long delays are likely, a senior government official said. The attack on Turkeys busiest airport came within months of a terror strike on Brussels airport, and turned the spotlight on the security apparatus at Indian facilities. The government said it will take all steps to ensure the safety of airports. Civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju tweeted he was deeply shocked and agitated by the attack in Istanbul. Its our commitment that we will continue to ensure safety and security of Indian airports and skies, he said. Security checks for passengers had been intensified at all Indian airports. It is only at Jammu and Srinagar airports that passengers are frisked and their bags checked before they enter the terminal. There is no plan to extend this practice at other airports but the security drill may be tightened following the Istanbul strike. BEIJING: President Xi Jinpings philosophy behind international diplomacy has been distilled into an A to Z by Chinese state media, detailing his pet projects and his aims for major-country relationships with nations such as the US. Each of the powerful presidents aims and objectives has been crystallised to coincide with a letter of the alphabet, adding another layer to the cult of personality that is carefully being cultivated around Xi. They are being described as the 26 key words or phrases that relate to this new style of diplomacy. The official Xinhua news agency reported: A major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics has taken shape since Xi Jinping became the top leader in late 2012. This class for diplomacy X for Xi-style begins predictably with A for the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and B for Xis pet Belt and Road Initiative. The Belt and Road initiative, which comprises the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, was first promulgated by Xi in 2013, who envisioned a trade and infrastructure network that connects Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient Silk Road routes, the state media explained. With C for climate change, it said China will cut its carbon emissions per unit of GDP by 60 to 65 percent by 2030 from the 2005 levelsand peak carbon emissions by 2030. There is no I for India or N for the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the body controlling access to sensitive atomic technology that was at the centre of bilateral tensions over New Delhis application to join the elite club. The closest this iteration of Xis diplomacy gets to India is N for neighbourhood diplomacy. ISLAMABAD: A Pakistani delegation has left for China to verify media reports that Chinese authorities have banned fasting during the holy month of Ramzan in Muslim-majority Xinjiang province. China formally requested the Pakistan government to send a delegation to Xinjiang to ascertain the facts regarding the observance of Ramzan in the province, an official of the religious affairs ministry was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. The request was made after an international news agency reported Chinese authorities had outlawed fasting in the region. The delegation from Pakistans religious affairs ministry includes the director general for research and the chief cleric of Islamabads Faisal Mosque. It will stay in Xinjiang for four days and ascertain facts regarding the reported ban. Earlier, it was reported that Chinese authorities marked the start of Ramzan with a customary ban on fasting for civil servants, students and children in Xinjiang. However, the Chinese government rejected these reports as baseless. Chinese officials said they did not force Muslims in Xinjiang to break their fast during Ramzan because the constitution guarantees religious freedom. China formally requested the Pakistan government to send a team so that this controversy could be ended, the newspaper reported. MOSCOW: President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday lifted Moscows travel restrictions to Turkey and ordered trade ties normalised after his first phone call with counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan since Ankara downed a Russian jet last year In the wake of the November incident Moscow slapped a range of sanctions on Ankara, including an embargo on some Turkish food products, as well as a ban on charter flights and sales of package tours to the country and the reintroduction of visas for Turkish visitors. We are lifting the administrative restrictions in this area, Putin told government ministers in televised comments. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON MELBOURNE, Australiaepi24, makers of the popular Womanizer brand of products, has issued a Special Edition Pro 18K Gold Plated version, and Calvista will carry the new item. Calvista will handle distribution of the new Womanizer Special Edition in Australia and New Zealand beginning Monday, July 4. The Special Edition Pro 18K Gold Plated is a truly unique version of the Pro range and we expect strong sales, said Calvista General Manager Roger Sheldon-Collins. The forward thinking technology sets the womanizer apart from most pleasure products. With sales far exceeding our expectations, this addition to the range will continue to see unit sales grow. The new version of the Womanizer, like its predecessors, provides touchless orgasms by using air pressure to induce clitoral orgasms. Designed in Germany by veteran lifestyle toy maker Michael Lenke, the Womanizer is part of a technical revolution in the adult toy market. Recently Womanizer announced a limited quantity release of the Womanizer Pro 18K Gold that use the companys patented PleasureAir Technology to pulsate the clitoris. The Enhanced Womanizer Pro features the three new intensity levels. Users now have a total of eight settings to experiment with and eight colors to choose from. Other features include a compact design that easily fits in the palm of your hand, an interchangeable stimulation heads that comes in two sizes and is made with Swarovski elements. Retailers interested in stocking the Womanizer range can contact Calvista at [email protected] TORONTO: Pritam Singh Jauhal, a 95-year-old World War II veteran and a prominent figure in the Sikh-Canadian community who fought and won a high profile battle to allow Sikhs wearing turbans into the Royal Canadian Legions, has died. Lt-Col Pritam Singh Jauhal passed away peacefully in Surrey on Sunday, his daughter was quoted as saying by The Globe and Mail newspaper. Jauhal spent 38 years in the Indian Army and Central Reserve Police Force before immigrating to Canada in 1980. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ANDERSONVILLE Considering the magnitude of suffering at Andersonville prison, it is difficult to understand how the movie industry has nearly completed its first century without someone exploiting that pathos for its cinematic value. With some success Ted Turner has finally done that, but it is disappointing that the production perpetuates so many significant myths that have flourished for the past 13 decades. Perhaps preferring dramatic effect to historical accuracy, the filmmakers appear to have based their work on the most virulent accounts of the prison, ignoring the more dispassionate studies. Consequently, the movie depicts the prison of MacKinlay Kantors Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Andersonville, rather than the Andersonville of history. The Confederates are portrayed as the malicious beasts they were accused of being in 1865, and false accusations of bitter ex-prisoners enjoy full credence. Prisoners waste away due to deliberate starvation, rather than nutritional deficiencies and systemic failures; fat, well-dressed guards gloat over the unfortunates and kill them gleefully. Viewers should not expect a documentary from commercialproducers, but neither should they be subjected to the distortion of such crucial elements. The lapses of the film often defy logic, as do many of the memoirs and doctored diaries on which the story apparently was modeled. Prisoners who ostensibly are reduced to trading their buttons as their only medium of exchange are, a few moments later, nonchalantly lending out the phenomenal sum of two greenbacks to mail a single letter. Never mind that no such sum was required of prisoners who wished to send a letter home. A soldier captured at the September 1862 Battle of Antietam is still imprisoned in the summer of 1864, even though prisoner exchanges occurred frequently in the two years following the battle. Prisoners wring drinking water from their clothing in a rainstorm, evidently too stupefied by hunger to funnel it into theircontainers from the tent canvas right behind them. Less substantive errors and anachronisms abound, but they will probably escape all but the most dedicated students of Andersonville. A Confederate inspector visits the prison and offers criticism for Commandant Heinrich Wirz that was lacking from the real inspectors report. A Confederate officer seeking recruits among the prisoners is unanimously rebuffed, although such an officer actually reaped scores of turncoats from the throng. Historical inaccuracies notwithstanding, the physical aspects of Andersonville are faithfully portrayed. Except for one or two instances of obvious special effects contrivances, the impression of a 33,000-man prison camp is effectively conveyed, although the shebangs in which the prisoners lived seemed more densely situated in actual photographs of Andersonville than they do in the movie. The location topography matches the original prison site nicely. Had as much attention been devoted to a discriminating examination of human interaction at the prison as to the placement of tree stumps and the architecture of the stockade, this would have been a movie to remember. Andersonville, directed by John Frankenheimer, Turner Pictures, four hours in two parts. Premieres March 3 and 4 on Turner Network Television. William Marvel South Conway, New Hampshire Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes was traveling by train to Washington, D.C., one morning nearly a century ago when a conductor asked for his ticket. Holmes searched high and low for it until the conductor reassured him, Dont worry about your ticket, Mr. Holmes. We all know who you are. When you get to your destination, you can find it and just mail it to us. My dear man, the problem is not my ticket, quipped Holmes, who was renowned for his quick wit. The problem is where am I going? We face a similar guessing game as a nation every time a new Supreme Court justice is chosen. The president and other officials involved in the selection process can only speculate what route a new appointee will follow during a lifetime tenure on the Court, much less what lasting impact he or she might have on interpretation of our laws. And predicting whether any justice will achieve a measure of greatness is a crapshoot. Sonia Sotomayor is no exception. When President Barack Obama put her up for Senate confirmation this summer, he touted her empathy and potential for blazing a new historical trail as the first Latina justice. She has been widely compared to Thurgood Marshall, the first African-American justice, and Sandra Day OConnor, the first female justice, both of whom made history by breaking racial and gender barriers. But neither Marshall nor OConnor are generally viewed as intellectual leaders on the Court. Marshall brought a deep sense of social justice to the Courts deliberations, but he was not equally known for his contribution to legal theory and doctrine at least, no more than the vast majority of his predecessors or successors. OConnor virtually functioned as a court of one the consistent swing vote on a Court rigidly divided in many areas by a 4-4 split but will not be remembered for the depth or consistency of her opinions. Even though she often dictated the outcome of cases, she did so with insular and sometimes conflicting rationales. The most notable trend in recent decades has been for presidents to put forward nominees who have empty files: impressive academic and judicial resumes combined with a sparse history of controversial speeches or writings that might be turned against them during the confirmation process. Such formulaic selections reflect the vagaries of our political system, but also our discomfort with people who are creative thinkers and cant be easily pigeonholed as either judicial activists or strict constructionists. Even though America has the deepest pool of lawyers in the world, if genius is found on the modern Court it is largely accidental. THE GAME CHANGERS There is no standard profile for the selection of great justices. However, close examination of the records of the 111 justices who have served on the Court reveals that a select few managed to see a legal horizon far beyond the view of their contemporaries, often espousing views that would not reflect majoritarian values for decades. The nine justices featured on the pages that follow all exhibited an ability to rise above conventional thinking and prejudices and epitomize what constitutes the right stuff on the Supreme Court. One of the primary measures of greatness on the Supreme Court is the impact a justices decisions have on the society at large. John Marshall, Charles Evan Hughes and Earl Warren all sat on the bench during transformative periods in American history and the social and political consequences of their decisions reverberated for generations. JOHN marShall, chief justice (1801-1835) Marshall authored the most important American judicial opinion of all time: Marbury v. Madison (1803), which established the supremacy of the Court in legal judgments. He also issued a series of decisions involving the balance of power between the federal government and the states that laid the legal foundation for the young republic. A hush falls upon us even now as we listen to his words, Justice Benjamin Cardozo wrote more than two centuries later. Despite such praise, Marshall has an obvious advantage. His decisions on judicial review, Indian tribes and other fundamental issues reflected the fact that these were the first defining cases. One has to recognize that anyone writing these early decisions would have had the same fundamental impact. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, a titan of the early-20th-century Court, alluded to the importance of timing when he wryly noted that much of Marshalls greatness consists of his being there. Marshall was not particularly profound or intellectual in his opinions, which often read more like commandments than interpretations on the law. He used Marbury to stake out valuable territory for the Court, a gamble that paid off despite initial protests that he was amending the Constitution through the ruling the earliest allegation of judicial activism. Yet the decision achieved a vital balancing of the judicial, legislative and executive branches of government that assured the peaceful resolution of countless conflicts. Marshall was interested more in the outcomes than the analytical underpinnings of his judicial opinions, but he is responsible for the institutional status and authority of the Court itself giving him a Moses-like stature that is unrivaled by his successors. CHarles evan hughes, associate justice (1910-1916), chief justice (1930-1941) Like Marshall, Hughes was not renowned for his eloquence or intellect. But he used his political skills to maneuver the Court through swirling waters of social change. Hughes was the Republican governor of New York before beginning a six-year stint as an associate justice in 1910. Then, after resigning from the Court to mount an unsuccessful campaign for president and spending several years in private practice as a lawyer, he served as secretary of state under Warren Harding from 1921 to 1925. He returned to the Supreme Court five years later when Herbert Hoover appointed him chief justice During the Great Depression, Hughes incurred the wrath of Franklin D. Roosevelt as the leader of a Court that declared several New Deal measures unconstitutional. Most notably, in Schechter Poultry Corp. v. United States (1935), Hughes ruled that agreements between Roosevelts National Recovery Administration and private industry regarding work hours, pay rates and price fixing were invalid because they delegated legislative power to the executive branch. After Roosevelt was re-elected by a landslide in 1936, he initiated judicial reorganization legislation that would have granted him the power to neutralize the Courts opposition to his plans by adding more justices. Roosevelts court-packing legislation ultimately failed in Congress. But in the interim Hughes helped avoid a cataclysmic showdown between the Court and the president through quiet diplomacy and by working closely with Louis Brandeis, Harlan Fiske Stone and Benjamin Cardozo in decisions supporting New Deal legislation he believed did not threaten the foundations of constitutional law. Earl Warren, Chief justice (1953-1969) Before joining the Supreme Court, Warren was a consummate politician: a longtime governor of California who proved so popular in his first term that he won the nominations of both the Republican and Democratic parties when he ran for re-election. In 1952 he stood as a favorite-son candidate of California for the Republican nomination for president, but withdrew in support of Dwight Eisenhower, who appointed him chief justice a year later. Eisenhower proclaimed that the Court needed a justice with conservative economic and social values much like his own. Instead, Warren took the Court boldly into the 20th century with transformative liberal rulings in areas ranging from desegregation to free speech to criminal procedure. The Warren Court issued one landmark decision after another, and Warren wrote the majority opinion in some of the most famous cases: Brown v. Board of Education (1954) banned segregation in public schools; Miranda v. Arizona (1966) required that criminal defendants be informed of their rights to remain silent and to be represented by a lawyer; Loving v. Virginia (1967) struck down prohibitions on interracial marriage. Liberals generally hailed the Warren Courts decisions, while conservatives cried foul. Nevertheless, Warren was able to find grounds for unanimity among his colleagues in controversial cases like Brown and put the entire weight and credibility of the Court behind opinions that brought great social change. The contrarians A handful of justices had a profound impact on the evolution of legal theory by bravely bucking against prevailing trends. Louis Brandeis, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. and William Brennan were independent thinkers who stayed the course even when their opinions were scorned by the majority. Louis Brandeis (Library of Congress) Louis Brandeis, Associate justice (1916-1939) As the first Jew named to the Court and an unabashed advocate of social justice who had earned the nickname the Peoples Lawyer, Brandeis faced a bitter confirmation fight. He was dangerous not just because of his brilliance, his arithmetic, his courage, his fellow justice William O. Douglas later wrote. He was dangerous because he was incorruptible. Indeed, it was Brandeis willingness to think beyond the status quo that made him such a prescient figure on the Court. His dissenting opinions, particularly in cases involving freedom of speech and the right to privacy, would later become the majority positions of the Court. In Olmstead v. United States (1928), he bristled at the willingness of his colleagues to endorse the governments use of wiretap technology to gather evidence and argued passionately for an individuals right to be let alone. His dissent is still one of the most quoted opinions in the Courts history. Men born to freedom are naturally alert to repel invasion of their liberty by evil-minded rulers, he wrote. The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well-meaning but without understanding. William Brennan, associate justice (1956-1990) Brennan turned out to be a Supreme surprise after President Dwight Eisenhower named him to the Court in 1956. Brennans record as a justice on the New Jersey Supreme Court and public comments he had made about criminal law suggested he would follow a conservative course, but he turned out to be one of the most liberal justices in the history of the Court. He was revered by the left and reviled by the right because of his outspoken opposition to the death penalty and support for abortion rights. But his opinions on less socially contentious issues had an equal if not greater impact on the expansion of constitutional theory and doctrines. New York Times v. Sullivan (1964) established the constitutional standard for defamation of public officials. Baker v. Carr (1962) enabled federal courts to protect individual voting rights by intervening in the reapportionment of electoral districts. Malloy v. Hogan (1964) extended a defendants Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination to state courts. Chief Justice Earl Warren often assigned rulings to Brennan that required a comprehensive and profound treatment, leading Court watchers to dub him the Deputy Chief. OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES, ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (1902-1932) Holmes first exhibited his fearless instincts for diving headlong into the fray during the Civil War, suffering wounds as a first lieutenant with the Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry at the battles of Balls Bluff, Antietam and Fredericksburg. After the war, Holmes established himself as one of Americas preeminent legal theorists with his 1881 book, The Common Law, and was a Harvard Law School professor before serving for two decades as a justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts. When President Theodore Roosevelt put his name forward as a Supreme Court justice in 1902, it was one of the rare occasions that a brilliant legal scholar has been nominated with little regard for partisan politics. Holmes proved to be an independent spirit during his 30 years on the Court, taking a contrarian position in so many decisions that he was dubbed the Great Dissenter. But the pithiness of both his minority and majority opinions on issues as diverse as copyright, due process and antitrust legislation resulted in him becoming one of the most widely cited Supreme Court justices ever. He is particularly well known for his articulation of the clear and present danger exception to the right of free speech in a unanimous ruling by the Court in Schenck v. United States (1919), in which he famously declared that First Amendment protections do not apply to an individual falsely shouting fire in a crowded theater and causing a panic. However, in his dissent in Abrams v. United State (1919), Holmes objected to the use of the clear-and-present-danger test to punish people solely on the content of their speech. GET HISTORYS GREATEST TALESRIGHT IN YOUR INBOX Subscribe to our HistoryNet Now! newsletter for the best of the past, delivered every Wednesday. Close Thank you for subscribing! THE VISIONARIES All of the great Supreme Court justices were visionaries. But John Marshall Harlan, Hugo Black and Joseph Story possessed extraordinary insights that allowed them to transcend their times and articulate a far-reaching view of our laws. JOHN MARSHALL HARLAN, ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (1877-1911) Harlan was born into a slaveholding family in Kentucky, and as a Union Army colonel during the Civil War swore that he would resign if President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. But he later broke with family tradition and became an outspoken critic of slavery, which he described as the most perfect despotism that ever existed on this earth. Harlan was the first justice to have earned a modern law degree and, after joining the Court in 1877, he supplemented his income by teaching evening classes at George Washington University Law School. Harlan became an eloquent defender of equal rights, and was the sole dissenter in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896), the infamous case in which the Court affirmed the constitutionality of racially segregated public facilities that were separate but equal. In his dissent in Hurtado v. California (1884), Harlan was the first justice to argue that the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which extended rights of citizenship to blacks after the Civil War, also prohibited states from constructing laws that infringe on protections accorded individuals under the Bill of Rights. Likewise, in the Insular Cases (1901), Harlan insisted that residents of new U.S. territories in the Philippines, Puerto Rico and Guam should be entitled to the same rights as all American citizens. While serving one of the longest tenures of any justice, Harlan was frequently in the minority, but he articulated a new way of thinking about core issues of the Constitution that was decades ahead of his time. HUGO BLACK, associate justice (1937-1971) Blacks early career as a local prosecutor, police court judge and Democratic senator from Alabama was blemished by his membership in the Ku Klux Klan. I would have joined any group if it helped get me votes, he admitted years later. But over the course of his 34-year tenure on the Court, he articulated a highly principled view of the Constitution. Black believed in restricting the interpretation of the Constitution to its plain meaning. When the majority invalidated a law that prohibited the use of contraceptives in Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) on the grounds that it violated an individuals right to privacy, Black argued in his dissent that it was not the duty of this Court to keep the Constitution in tune with the times. That same insistence on strict textual analysis of the Constitution made him perhaps the Courts most passionate defender of the rights of free speech and association. In his dissent in Dennis v. United States (1966), a case in which the majority upheld the conspiracy conviction of a Communist Party leader, he wrote, Public opinion being what it now is, few will protest the conviction of these Communist petitioners. There is hope, however, that, in calmer times, when present pressures, passions and fears subside, this or some later Court will restore the First Amendment liberties to the high preferred place where they belong in a free society. He also wrote the landmark decision in Gideon v. Wainwright (1963), which established that states must provide an attorney to an indigent defendant. Black defied easy categorization as either a conservative or a liberal, but he brought a profound clarity to his constitutional interpretation of cases that continue to have a dramatic impact on both law and American politics. Joseph Story, associate justice (1812-1845) Joseph Story (Library of Congress) Story was only 32 years old when he joined the Supreme Court and was overshadowed by John Marshall during most of his tenure on the bench, but he ultimately had a greater impact on the law, society and legal theory than any other justice in history. Even though Marshall assigned virtually all the major early Supreme Court opinions to himself, Story was the intellectual anchor who gave lasting meaning to the decisions. After declaring the outcome of one case Marshall turned to him and said, Now, Story, that is the law; you find the precedents for it. When he was allowed to write, Story proved that he was the better of Marshall as a legal mind. In Martin v. Hunters Lessee (1816) he established the Courts authority over state decisions touching on federal law. His decision in Bank of the United States v. Dandridge (1827) led to the creation of the modern corporation as a legal entity and other seminal opinions laid the foundations for admiralty law, equity law and patent law. In United States v. Amistad (1841), which was the basis of a 1997 Steven Spielberg film starring retired Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun as Story, he bolstered the abolitionist movement by ruling that the transport of a group of Africans across the Atlantic was illegal and the slaves should be freed. Story clearly saw the law as an evolving body of doctrines that connected at deep common roots, and the influence of his thinking spread when he became the first Dane Professor of Law at Harvard University and penned his three-volume Commentaries on the Constitution (1833) while still serving on the Court. He also was one of the earliest voices calling for society to end slavery and to educate women. While the turgid style of the time makes Storys opinions less powerful to read than some of his successors, he showed the same quiet passion of his father, Elisha, one of the organizers of the Boston Tea Party. Above all, Story adopted a more modern view of a jurist in avoiding political entanglements and public acclaim. Republics are created by the virtue, public spirit, and intelligence of the citizens, he wrote. They fall, when the wise are banished from the public councils, because they dare to be honest, and the profligate are rewarded, because they flatter the people, in order to betray them. Jonathan Turley is a George Washington University law professor who has written extensively on legal and policy issues for various national publications and appeared as a commentator on all the major networks. HOLLYWOOD, Calif.Chanell Heart, 360 Models Agency's rising starlet, is set to host her birthday bash this Friday, July 1, at Hollywood hot-spot Club Lure. The host is bringing a bevy of girlfriends to help celebrate in style and expects to make it a night to remember. Heart is an award-nominated performer who has worked with top production companies including Tushy, Elegant Angel, Filly Films, Sweetheart Video, Devil Films, Dogfart Productions, Bang Bros Productions, Evil Angel and West Coast Productions. Its a good time to come out and play, said Chanell Heart. My birthday party is my way of celebrating with the fans who kept their support strong for me since day one. They continue to push me to new heights and this celebration is for us all. Chanell recently released her first anal scene with male stud Mick Blue for Tushy.com. Directed by 2016 XRCO Awards Director of the Year Greg Lansky, their hot scene is now live here. She also graces the cover of Devil Films new title release, I Like Black Girls. Fans can watch the trailer and buy the DVD here. Fans can RSVP for the event by e-mailing the names in their party to [email protected]. The event encourages early arrival for easier entrance. Club Lure will open its door at 10 p.m. and is located at 1439 Ivar Ave., Hollywood 90028. Jamie Barren Productions is the adult industry go-to promoter for events. For bottle service info, e-mail questions to [email protected]. A record number of Londoners left the capital last year in search of a family home they could afford in a pretty village or lively market town. The aim for most was to find somewhere with good schools, countryside on the doorstep, and a commute of no more than 60 minutes. The big question for those 66,000 Lexit families was where to go there are hundreds of locations within an hour of London that can offer everything from life by the seaside, or close to a busy city centre, to a get-away-from-it-all rural idyll where, perhaps, you could raise rare-breed pigs on a smallholding. To make the decision a little easier for this years new commuters, Homes & Property has compiled its expert guide to some of the top locations for all price ranges and lifestyles. Here, we unveil our first five areas... 1. ODIHAM A GEORGIAN VILLAGE IN HAMPSHIRE What it costs: an average home in the village costs 474,215, up seven per cent in the last two years. The average house costs 500,319 while two-bedroom flats are priced at about 200,000 to 250,000. Source: Savills. Georgian gem: Odiham High Street has independent shops and cafes / Alamy The commute: trains from Hook station, two-and-a-half miles away, take 58 minutes to Waterloo. Annual season ticket: from 3,988. Top schools: Mayhill Junior School and Robert Mays School (seniors) are both rated good by Ofsted. Who it would suit: this large village represents far better value for money than homes in nearby Surreys swish commuter addresses. Odihams Georgian High Street is a thing of beauty and has some good independent shops and cafes, half a dozen pubs, and there is a regular farmers market. Theres a ruined castle to explore, and lovely walks nearby include 32 miles of footpaths beside the Basingstoke Canal and Odiham Common. Yet average property prices are less than those in Hackney. People come to Odiham from the smaller villages around for its facilities, while those coming out of south-west London find their commuting time doesnt change a great deal, but they can buy a much bigger home with a bit of land in an area where the schools and quality of life are exceptionally good. And the downsides? The commute will involve the extra chore and cost of driving daily to the station, where an annual car park pass costs 820. There are very few flats in the village for those looking for a smaller home. Odiham also fails the Waitrose test the nearest branch is in Fleet, seven miles away. 2. OXFORD FOR A CITY LIFESTYLE What it costs: the average Oxford home price stands at 724,000, up 26 per cent in the last two years. Expect to pay just over 916,000 for a house or 386,000 for a flat. Source: Savills. The dreaming spires: Oxford has gorgeous architecture and London-style house prices / Shutterstock The commute: it just squeaks in under the hour, with services to Marylebone from 57 minutes. Annual season ticket: 5,620. Top schools: no sink schools in this city. For primary pupils, St Barnabas in boho Jericho is sought after, as is St Philip & St James. Many parents go private, with Dragon School, Magdalen College School (boys) and Oxford High School (girls) the top picks. Who it would suit: given the London-type prices, a move to Oxford is more about lifestyle than budget. Gorgeous looking and with a more cosmopolitan feel than smaller towns can manage, Oxford is walkable/cycleable, and the countryside on the doorstep is glorious. The Jericho district has lovely painted cottages and an arty/media feel, while North Oxford is the prime address with its huge Victorian houses. For a better-value Victorian terrace try Osney. And the downsides? There is a feeling price growth may slow in the next few years. The city centre is overrun by tourists and students, particularly during May Ball season. But students disappear in summer. 3. LEIGH-ON-SEA A SEASIDE TOWN IN ESSEX What it costs: average prices stand at 508,962, up a hefty 26 per cent over the last two years. A typical house costs just over 407,000, while a flat costs 214,232. Source: Savills. Beach boys and girls: Leigh-on-Sea has a London village-by-the-sea vibe / Getty The commute: from 48 minutes to Fenchurch Street. Annual season ticket: 4,524. Top schools: both Leigh North Street Primary and West Leigh Junior School get top marks from Ofsted. The town also has two academy senior schools, both rated good by the education watchdog. Who it would suit: City workers who fancy messing about by the seaside, with or without children. Leigh has a bit of a London village vibe, with good, quirky indy shops and galleries in Leigh Broadway, and plenty of cafes. There are lots of like-minded ex-Londoners to befriend. And the downsides? Too many tourists in summer. And at some point a genius planner decided the railway line should run between the beach and the town, rather marring peaceful sandcastle-making days. Although there are some very nice period houses and funky contemporary homes in Leigh, it also has its share of grim seaside bungalows. 4. READING FOR CROSSRAIL IN BERKSHIRE What it costs: homes here cost less than half the price of those in Oxford, with an average of 285,312, up 26 per cent in the last two years. An average house goes for 334,397, while flats are priced at an average 227,235. Source: Savills. Reading town centre: pedestrianized Queen Victoria Streets high st chains / Alamy The commute: from 27 minutes to Paddington. An annual season ticket costs 5,024. Top schools: Reading School is one of the highest-performing schools in Britain, while All Saints Junior School is outstanding according to the Ofsted education watchdog. Who it would suit: first-time buyers seeking for value for their money and commuters looking to minimise the amount of time spent sitting on the train. Readings centre isnt a good looker but it has some pretty, historic parts, good, family-friendly suburbs such as Caversham Heights and Earley where Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian homes can be found along with very nice riverside walks, and you are close to the Chilterns. And the downsides? Investors have been piling into Reading ever since it was announced that it would be included on the Crossrail route, pushing up property prices, particularly for flats. The town centre is a post-war monstrosity and the choice of shops, while comprehensive, is dominated by chain stores. The new-build offering in the town is dreary. 5. EAST AND WEST MALLING A VILLAGE AND A SMALL MARKET TOWN IN KENT What it costs: the average property price of 298,922 has risen 18 per cent in the last two years. A typical house now costs just over 305,000, while flats sell at just over 218,000. Source: Savills. Water feature: the late-Georgian ornamental cascade, West Malling, made with medieval abbey stone / Alamy The commute: the train from West Malling to Victoria takes from 50 minutes, or its 56 minutes from East Malling. Season ticket from either station: 4,176. Top schools: The Discovery School (juniors) in West Malling is outstanding according to Ofsted; seniors can try for one of Kents grammar schools. Who it would suit: ambitious parents, particularly those who fancy weekends at the beach the Mallings (pronounced Maulings) are 30 miles from Whitstable. Those who like the idea of a small market town with a pretty Georgian high street filled with traditional pubs and some good shops, and lower property prices than better-known Kent commuter towns such as Sevenoaks, will prefer West Malling, while East Malling is a proper village. And the downsides? Theres a lot of new homes development going on in the area which could begin to erode the Mallings country charm. It looks like you've reached a page that doesnt exist (anymore). Please use the navigation or search above to find content on Hospitality Net. Go back to home LOS ANGELESAdult performer Layla Price will soon travel to the Windy City, where she will appear at Exxxotica Chicago Every Exxxotica is a blast and a different experience, Price said. You get that irreplaceable face time with the fans in a relaxed setting. Its really one of the best experiences we have in the adult industry. The annual event takes July 8-10 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. This will be Prices second appearance at Exxxotica Chicago. Last year she also attended the Exxxotica conventions in New Jersey and Dallas. She will be signing for Society 15, the agency she joined earlier this month. Price will push her latest project, the Pornfidelity DVD Rough Rider, which releases this week. Fans can also see her in Young Lips Suck Gloryhole Dicks (Red Light District) and the parody This Aint Fallout XXX (Hustler). Watch the trailer for her scene in Pornfidelitys Rough Rider at Pornfidelity.com. For more on Exxxotica, visit Chi.ExxxoticaExpo.com. Layla is repped by Society 15 Models. Follow her Instagram (bootykush91). Business Travelers Embracing Self-Service Technology and Personalized Travel Options Mobile technology continues to make it easier for travelers to manage their own travel while in-transit and the majority of global business travelers are embracing this trend, according to a new study released today from the GBTA Foundation in partnership with Sabre Corporation. Mobile technology continues to make it easier for travelers to manage their own travel while in-transit and the majority of global business travelers are embracing this trend, according to a new study released today from the GBTA Foundation in partnership with Sabre Corporation. More than 7 in 10 business travelers in the United States (78 percent), Italy (77 percent), Canada (74 percent) and Spain (73 percent) prefer using self-service technology to manage their travel, while the rate is slightly lower for the Nordic countries (60 percent) and Germany (56 percent). In North America and Europe, the vast majority of business travelers also want to receive personalized travel options. However, even though business travelers want personalized options, they are hesitant to share too much personal information to obtain them. They are commonly willing to share details such as their frequent flyer or hotel loyalty number, preferred airline and hotel brands and aircraft seat preferences, but fewer than half would share their travel history, preferred leisure activities while traveling, their business calendar with booked appointments and their social media account names. Technological innovation has given business travelers greater control of their own travel, but that doesnt need to mean trouble for a managed travel program, said Michael W. McCormick, GBTA Executive Director and COO. Travel buyers can recommend apps for their travelers to help drive compliance and can also take advantage of technology to track and more easily assist their travelers in case of an emergency, helping fulfill their duty of care requirements. This report demonstrates how corporate travelers look to technology to make travel a more seamless experience. But it also reflects a crowded and fragmented technology landscape where travelers have to use multiple apps and services to manage their trip, said Clinton Anderson, senior vice president, strategy and traveler experience for Sabre Corporation. We see an opportunity to integrate critical technologies into a single platform to help business travelers throughout their entire trip. This will dramatically increase traveler satisfaction while improving program compliance and reducing costs for corporations." Road Warriors & Travel Apps Business travelers use a variety of travel-related mobile apps during their trips, but in all countries surveyed, supplier apps are more commonly used than travel management company (TMC), itinerary management and expense management apps. The most common uses for travel-related mobile apps by North American business travelers include flight check-in/status, generating an online boarding pass and booking hotels and flights. In the European countries surveyed, business travelers use travel-related apps for many of the same reasons as their North American counterparts. However, compared with U.S.-based business travelers, Germany and Nordic-based travelers are less likely to use travel-related apps for booking, while Spain-based travelers are more likely to do so. The European business travelers surveyed were also more likely to use apps to book rail or train than North Americans and were less likely to use them to request a ride-sharing service or taxi. Most companies dont require or recommend travel apps as only one-fifth or fewer say their organization has specific apps they require for business travel and about half in each country say their organization does not recommend any travel apps. Mobile Payment & Millennials Given the opportunity, many business travelers would likely use mobile payment or e-wallet technology. The share likely to do so ranges from 43 percent in the Nordic countries all the way up to 75 percent in Italy. Millennials and Gen-X travelers are much more likely than Baby Boomers to want to use mobile payments. Technology & Duty of Care Mobile apps commonly developed by TMCs or third-party safety or security firms can assist with duty of care by allowing travelers to check-in with their company upon arrival at a destination or by allowing companies to track their employees location and send push notifications in an emergency among other features. Only a small share of travelers use these apps, however. Only 22 percent of survey respondents have used a mobile app to check-in with their company during a trip over the past year and even fewer (15 percent) have used a mobile app that allows their company to track their location. Still, despite low use, 63 percent said they would allow their company to track their location via their mobile device for duty of care purposes. Methodology and More Information: An online survey of 756 business travelers in nine countries was fielded between March 21 and April 3, 2016. The countries included the United States, Canada, Germany, Italy, Spain, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The four Nordic countries are grouped together and referred to as one region throughout the report. Respondents qualified if they were employed full-time and had traveled for business in the past year. The Digital Business Traveler: A Survey of Business Travelers in North America, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Nordic Countries report is available exclusively to GBTA members by clicking here and non-members may purchase the report through the GBTA Foundation by emailing pyachnes@gbtafoundation.org. This article showcases the potential of the Maldives and evaluates its current performance under the given changes in its tourism market, while highlighting key considerations for investors regarding hotel development and investment in the region. The Republic of Maldives has approximately 1,192 inhabited and uninhabited islands, with the nation spread in two rows of 26 natural atolls across an area of 90,000 square kilometers in the Indian Ocean. Famous for its natural beauty with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the Maldives is ranked as one of the best diving destinations in the world. High-end tourism has propelled the economys strong expansion over recent decades and enabled the Maldives gain middle-income status. According to World Travel & Tourism Council, the direct and total contribution of Travel and Tourism to the Maldives Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 52.4% and 96.5% of the total GDP in 2015, respectively; thus, making tourism the key industry for the economy. Hence, it is crucial for the island nation to maintain its image and attractiveness as a tropical island getaway for special events and occasions. The Ministry of Tourism plays an important role in shaping the tourism landscape in the Maldives. To boost tourism arrival, the government has planned to expand the countrys main gateway airport in Male. Click here ( Adobe Acrobat PDF file) to download the complete article. Radisson Blu Hotel Ordu Opens on Turkeys Black Sea Coast The upper-upscale property is a semi-conversion and brings Rezidor Hotel Groups portfolio in Turkey up to 23 hotels, with more than 4,000 rooms in operation or under development. New Jersey rapper and orange soda merchant Kush Kelz is gearing up for the July release of a new EP called I Think The Neighbors Know. Today, he debuts EP single Illest Nigga Ever in an HNHH premiere. Produced by Myles William, Illest Nigga Ever is a high-grade banger that features a quality verse from Ab-Soul. Kelz explained how he linked up with Ab-Soul in an email to HNHH: We met through a mutual friend in NYC, he wrote. We linked up at our friends crib, where I played him a couple new cuts from the EP and decided to cut a track together in the near future. We met up a couple of days later in Times Square at the studio and cut the track. Boom!! Check out Illest Nigga Ever and keep an eye out for I Think The Neighbors Know dropping soon. In addition to Ab-Soul, the EP features Kap G, Jim Jones, and Key! Quotable Lyrics Dropped a dose in a Kelz Orange Soda Just landed in New York but Im smoking California Soulo Ho the prophet and I got it in my pocket Nigga, when you getting green, its impossible to stop it Alex Turner: "there will be [one] at some point...no rush" Don't expect new Arctic Monkeys music any time soon. Band frontman Alex Turner confirmed that there are no immediate plans to release a new Arctic Monkeys album. "There will be at some point", he said, but he emphasised that there's "no rush". Turner's other band, The Last Shadow Puppets, are currently touring Europe behind their April album Everything You've Come to Expect. Turner has stated that the band intends to take a break at the end of the summer, though they do plan to make a third record. Arctic Monkeys have been on hiatus since summer 2014, when their AM tour ended. Listen to the AM track 'Do I Wanna Know?' below. Eoghan McDermott has called for more civic spaces in Dublin. The presenter, who originally made his name as the back-stage reporter on The Voice of Ireland, is now one of RTE 2fms leading presenters, holding down the crucial drive-time slot on the national broadcasters second channel. When asked what Dublin needed more of Mcdermott insisted, "Designated performance spaces, skate parks and diving areas for all the kids who jump in the Liffey in their wetsuits." He seemed flabbergasted by some of the archaic rules, especially in South-County Dublin. "You're not even allowed roller skate the pier in Dun Laoghaire. Madness! Nobody has skated over the edge right?" Somehow, James Corden has managed to find himself on par with the likes of Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel in such a short space of time. The people just can't get enough of James Corden. Since first airing in March last year, The Late Late Show With James Corden has skyrocketed to success. Of course this has much to do with the instant success and viralability of the carpool karaoke cameos but Corden's likeability factor and his consistency in creating comedic skits has to be commended. Now, CBS and Sky have joined forces to bring The Late Late Show With James Corden to Ireland and the UK. From July 19, Sky has exclusive rights to the hit chat show. Sky TV Customers will be able to watch the show in full the day after it's aired in the US. Carpool Karaoke Galore! via GIPHY Ahead of tonight's gig, we take a look back at some of the Welsh outfit's extensive collection of hits. Kelly Jones and Co. are playing Royal Kilmainham Hospital tonight, so we've compiled a shortlist of some of their top tracks to get you in the mood. Bartender and the Thief is a staple of the rocker's live set with Kelly Jones even throwing in the odd Ace of Spades lyric. Released in 2005, Superman is a gig favourite - just wait for that snarling outro! Mr Writer contains the lyric 'just enough education to perform' which is also the title of the album from which it's taken. Kelly Jones famously said that this song took ten minutes to write and ten years to explain. Often misinterpreted due to it's cheery melody, Have A Nice Day is actually an attack on the insincerity of a certain taxi driver in the US. Advertisement The last track to feature the late Stuart Cable, Moviestar was released in 2003. A somewhat recent offering, White Lies is taken from latest album Keep The Village Alive. Perhaps not a purist fan's favourite, Dakota is one of the band's biggest hits and undoubtedly a great closer. I Love the USA and Juno both available on iTunes On July 4, NASAs Juno mission will enter orbit around Jupiter to collect unprecedented amounts of information about the planet. 90s alt-rock titans Weezer and Trent Reznor have commemorated the mission in song. The two artists take almost polar-opposite approaches. Reznor teams with Atticus Ross, with whom Reznor won an Oscar in 2011 for their The Social Network score. The result is an atmospheric instrumental reminiscent of Brian Enos Deep Blue Day. With I Love the USA, Weezer pours on the unapologetic cheesiness: Rivers Cuomo proclaims fuck yeah this place is great over a power-ballad track. Its the type of track Lee Greenwood might make if he were an alt-rocker. Check out the Juno mission trailer below. On Tuesday the infamous pumper the Wolf of Penny Stocks sent out emails announcing On4 Communications Inc (OTCMKTS:ONCI, ONCI message board) as its new pick. The artificial hype generated by the promoter was massive with investors shifting the unprecedented for the past two years number of 263 million ONCI shares in a single session. Unfortunately for those who believed the words of the pumper the intense trading didn't translate into a positive move up the chart. On the contrary, ONCI got devastated closing the session with a loss of 50% at $0.0013. Despite the disastrous outcome the Wolf of Penny Stocks still bagged a disclosed compensation of $43 thousand. Yesterday the traded volume was significantly lower but the amount of shares that changed hands still doubled the monthly average reaching 78.9 million. The performance of the stock was rather volatile but in the end it closed flat at $0.0013. With the pump now over can ONCI hope to recover its losses? Well, according to the latest corporate update ONCI will attempt to become "a disruptor in the dental and elderly care industry". The goal is to transport equipment inside the elderly care facilities in order for the patients to receive dental care without taking the risk of going outside. No matter how exciting or noble a company's business plan may sound the reality is that without funds very little can be achieved. And ONCI's financial state is nothing short of abysmal. According to the latest financial report the company finished the quarter ended April 30, 2016, with: $7,500 cash and total assets!!! $2.6 million total current liabilities ZERO revenues $87 thousand net loss While the fact that during the nine months ended April 30, 2016, no new shares were actually issued is truly admirable investors should keep in mind during the quarter ended July 31, 2015, as a conversion of notes ONCI had to issue over 169 million shares, which if nearly half of the 366 million shares that were outstanding at the end of April. ONCI plans to reduce its 5 BILLION authorized shares to $3.75 billion, as stated in the June 23 PR, but that still leaves plenty of room for more conversions to take place. The company had $304 thousand in convertible notes payable at the end of the period covered by the report. The red flags surrounding ONCI are both numerous and extremely serious. Any trades involving the stock must be preceded by thorough due diligence and careful planning. From over 4 cents the previous day to a close at less than $0.025 on June 22 representing a loss of 40%, that were the consequences for Hemp Inc (OTCMKTS:HEMP, HEMP message board) after investors had learned that the Securities and Exchange Commission had filed charges for securities fraud against the company and its CEO, Mr. Bruce Perlowin. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, according to the SEC complaint the defendants had a long-running scheme that resulted in the sale of hundreds of millions of "unregistered and purportedly unrestricted Hemp shares", after the immediate sell-off investors changed their mind and showed considerable support for the company. Following the severe crash HEMP went on and registered four consecutive sessions of gains that saw it climb all the way back to $0.035 at the end of Tuesday's session. Yesterday, however, the stock crumbled once more and after slashing more than 14% of its value it fell to a close at exactly 3 cents per share. It is clear that HEMP will continue to display heightened volatility in the sessions to come. The fact that a company that usually issues a new PR every couple of days has been silent for over a week could also be viewed as an warning sign. While some investors on the various discussion boards appear to be unconcerned about the SEC lawsuit it should be noted that HEMP was riddled with red flags even before that. The Temafa decortication plant HEMP is building in Spring Hope, North Carolina, has so far gone through a considerable amount of delays, or maybe the company has been announcing truly unrealistic deadlines. After all, HEMP's initial projections were for the facility to be operational by the first quarter of 2015. Over a year later the company still has a lot of work before it completes the assembly of the plant. In fact, the last time HEMP even mentioned a deadline was way back in January when they were talking about getting everything fully operational by the second quarter of the year. This period ends today. No matter how strongly you believe in the legalization of hemp and its potential you shouldn't overlook the myriad of risks surrounding the company. Before putting any amount of money on the like you should take the necessary time to do thorough due diligence. In early trading today HEMP jumped up by 3.3% but is currently sitting flat at $0.3. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Spending growth by Hispanics outpaced that of other demographic groups in Houston between 2009 and 2014, a researcher on Wednesday told some 450 business professionals interested in learning how a growing Latino community is shaping the city's economic and political spheres. "We want to make sure that Houstonians understand that Hispanics are spending billions of dollars in this city," added Laura Murillo, president and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Consumer spending among Houston's Hispanics increased 44 percent to $52.75 billion in 2014 and is expected to top $175 billion by 2034, according to data presented by Mitzi Fleissner, research director for Telemundo Houston. Figures like that represent opportunity for Houston companies, especially those with employees who speak Spanish. Fleissner said some 70 percent of the city's Hispanic households prefer speaking in Spanish. "Businesses that are speaking to and offering services to Hispanic consumers in their language of preference have a unique opportunity for growth," she said. These and other data points, ranging from home-ownership rates to voting patterns, were discussed during the inaugural Hispanic Houston Impact Summit. The event was presented by the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Houston Business Journal and Telemundo Houston. With so much of the current political debate having an anti-Hispanic or anti-immigrant edge, Murillo wanted to present a more positive image. "We stand today before you to make sure that you hear the other side of the Latino experience and story with data and research," she told the audience. "Every day in the media, we hear the rhetoric. We hear the bashing. We are targets. And the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is here to say that we will not tolerate it." One chamber member creating jobs and contributing to the economy is Bayside Printing, which Rose Mary Bundscho helped start in 1973 with a printing press in her garage. The first five years were a struggle - a warning she often gives fledgling business owners - but they marked the beginning of a long and rewarding entrepreneurial journey. Over 25 years, Bayside Printing expanded to the building adjacent to Bundscho's garage, and then her house after the family moved. In 1998, the once-mom-and-pop shop bought 2.5 acres and built a 25,000-square-foot building. Bundscho now employs about 30 people, a number that can double during busy times, to print books, magazines, marketing materials, business cards and other products. "It has been a very exciting journey," said Bundscho, who is of Mexican heritage. "To be successful and see your hard work pay off, it's all been very rewarding." The best part about owning a business, she said, is working with employees: watching them grow in their careers, helping them support families, watching them work hard to send their children to college. "Seeing people grow and helping be a little part of it, that's my favorite part," she said. The latest Census figures show Harris County is 42 percent Hispanic. Throughout Houston, the group is wielding an increasingly strong purchasing power. Hispanics spent $6.1 billion on groceries, $4.2 billion dining out, $3 billion on health care and $2.4 billion on clothes in 2014, Fleissner showed in her presentation Wednesday. Banking presents a particularly strong growth segment as Hispanic adult households are more likely than other groups to not use a bank or credit union, she said. "It represents an opportunity for banks or credit unions to reach out to these individuals," Fleissner said. Murillo also lamented the lack of Hispanics on companies' board of directors. She said boards should reflect local diversity, even noting that 40 percent of directors on the chamber's board are not Hispanic. This is also a problem in the political sphere, she said, and the event likewise highlighted the importance of voting. The event featured opportunities for people to register to vote. "We urge you not to leave here today without registering to vote," she said. "That is very important." A week after more than a dozen people overdosed while smoking synthetic cannabinoids at Hermann Park, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner pledged to bulk up police presence in city parks and other "hot spots" in key areas of the city. "Several parks, the downtown library, METRO rail stations and other areas are being taken over by drug users," Turner said, at a press conference at Hermann Park, announcing that 175 police officers would be moving from desk jobs or other postings to beat patrols. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate AMMAN, Jordan - Two dozen men charged with supporting the Islamic State group squeezed into a cage in Jordan's state security court. After brief questioning from a judge, they filed back out, and guards ushered in the next group of accused militants. The court's heavy load is part of a widening domestic crackdown on the extremist group. Hundreds have been sentenced to prison, are awaiting trial or are being held for questioning about links to IS. Under toughened anti-terror laws, even liking or sharing the group's propaganda on social media can land someone a prison sentence. Some say the crowded courtrooms - along with recent attacks - signal that the pro-Western kingdom has a more serious problem with home-grown extremism than it has acknowledged in public. "We have an extending of the network of IS in Jordan," not just among the poor, but also the middle class, said Mohammed Abu Rumman, an expert on extremists. "It is a minority but it is very dangerous." 3 decades of extremism The extremists underscored their reach last week when they launched a suicide attack from Syria, detonating a car bomb near a Jordanian border post and killing seven soldiers in the deadliest attack in the kingdom in years. The Islamic State group's 2014 capture of large parts of neighboring Syria and Iraq sent jitters through Jordan. The U.S. spent millions of dollars to help the kingdom fortify its borders, and Jordan joined the U.S.-led anti-ISIS military coalition. Jordanian government spokesman Mohammed Momani said that extremism is a global problem and that "Jordan is at a level just like any other societies in the world." For the West, any sign of instability in Jordan, a key ally, would be of great concern. This would include rising support for jihadi Salafism, the violent version of Sunni Islam that underpins ISIS and its precursor, al-Qaida. U.S.-based analyst David Schenker said that while measuring jihadi activity is difficult, the recent uptick "points to a threat that is not insignificant." Abu Rumman estimated that more than 10,000 jihadi Salafists are in Jordan, most loyal to ISIS, and that about 2,000 are fighting in the ranks of ISIS and al-Qaida in Syria and Iraq. Jordan's domestic jihadi Salafi movement goes back almost three decades when Jordanians returning from Afghanistan spread the extremist message at home. Jordan's movement produced a spiritual leader of al-Qaida, Abu Mohammad al-Maqdisi, and the network's first chief in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, killed by the U.S. in 2006. Over the years, jihadi recruitment has been fueled by high unemployment, restrictions on political expression and the perception that the world stands by as Sunnis are being slaughtered in Syria's civil war and the Sunni-Shiite conflict in Iraq. Discontent rising Jordan defends its anti-ISIS strategy, saying it is part of a counter-radicalization program involving 13 government agencies. Critics say the focus on jailing ISIS sympathizers is counterproductive. A survey among Jordanians, published last week by the U.S.-based International Republican Institute, found a sharp rise in discontent with Jordan's economy and political institutions. The poll also showed that 89 percent of Jordanians consider ISIS a terrorist organization, while 4 percent disagree and 7 percent are not sure - the same as in 2015. As jihadi Salafism spreads, Jordan will have to adapt, Schenker said. "Ultimately, you are going to have more Salafists, and the king can't lock them all up," he said. 'Today, the Lord Invites Us to Make Serious Examination of Conscience,' Francis Tells Pilgrims Author: Deborah Castellano Lubov | Source: ZENIT (https://zenit.org) (ZENIT, Vatican City, June 30, 2016).- Today the Lord invites us to make a serious examination of conscience. This morning, the Pope said this when he held his eighth Jubilee Audience. The jubilee audiences are open to the public and are generally scheduled one Saturday a month during the Year of Mercy, but last weekend Pope Francis was on his 14th Apostolic Visit abroad to the nation of Armenia, July 24-26. The Holy Father reflected during his address on works of mercy, drawing inspiration from todays reading from the Gospel of Matthew 25:31. In fact, it is good never to forget that mercy is not an abstract word, but a style of life. It is one thing to speak of mercy and another to live mercy. Paraphrasing the words of Saint James the Apostle, (cf. 2:14-17), we can say: mercy without works is dead in itself. It is in fact thus! What renders mercy alive, he explained, is its constant dynamism in going to meet the needs and necessities of others. Mercy has eyes to see, ears to listen, hands to resolve, he said. Warning The Pope lamented that so often, so many are unaware of the suffering and needs of others, or remain completely indifferent. Sometimes we pass before dramatic situations of poverty and it seems that they do not touch us; everything continues as if there were nothing, in an indifference that in the end renders us hypocrites and, without realizing it, it results in a form of spiritual lethargy, which renders our mind insensitive and our life sterile. Roll up Sleeves One who has experienced the Fathers mercy in his own life cannot remain insensitive in face of the needs of brothers, Francis said, noting Jesus teachings do not allow for escapes, but call for helping those who hunger and thirst, the naked, the stranger, the sick and those in prison (cf. Mt25:35-36), They oblige one to rollup ones sleeves to alleviate suffering, Francis said Because of the changes of our globalized world, some material and spiritual poverties have multiplied, he continued, hence let us make room for the imagination of charity to identify new operative ways. Thus the way of mercy will become ever more concrete. Requested of us, therefore, is to remain vigilant as watchmen, so that it will not happen that, in face of the poverties produced by the culture of wellbeing, the eyes of Christians are weakened and become incapable of looking at the essential. Pilgrim in Fraternity, Peace Before concluding, Pope Francis recalled his recent visit to Armenia, the first nation to have embraced Christianity, whose people, he noted, in the course of its long history, have witnessed the Christian faith with martyrdom. Francis then thanked the President of Armenia and the Catholicos Karekin II, the Partriarch, the Catholic bishops and the Armenian people for welcoming him as a pilgrim in fraternity and peace. He also reminded those gathered that he has accepted to visit Georgia and Azerbaijan, Sept. 28-30, for a twofold reason: on one hand to appreciate the ancient Christian roots present in those lands always in a spirit of dialogue with the other religions and cultures and, on the other, to encourage hopes and paths of peace. History teaches us that the path of peace requires great tenacity and continuous steps, beginning with small ones and, little by little, making them grow, one going to encounter the other. In fact because of this my wish is that each and all may make their contribution to reconciliation, he said. A registered sex offender who visited the Raymondville Picnic has been charged. Jerry A. Tharp, 52, of Licking, was arrested Wednesday night for being within 500 feet of the park on June 18. He is held in the Texas County Jail on $500,000 bond. Tharp was contacted by a deputy with the Texas County Sheriffs Department at the event and advised of his violation. He left. A probable cause statement seeking charges was sent to the county prosecutor. The Missouri State Highway Patrol served the warrant and arrested Tharp without incident at 6:30 p.m. at his home. According to online documents, Tharp was convicted of first-degree statutory sodomy in May 2005. The charges stemmed from a 2000 incident involving a 4-year-old Licking girl. Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content. 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Tags : brexit liberation eu To many employers the recent vote to leave the European Union would be a liberation; it could mean freedom from red tape, over regulation and employee friendly employment law, but would this really be the case? The sad fact of the matter for many employers is that any immediate change would be small and in the longer term we can look forward to a piecemeal approach to employment law depending upon the new, independent government of the day and its relationship with the EU. Prior to the 23 June, 2016 vote most of the debate over what Brexit would mean for employment law was conjecture, to put it quite simply nobody knows what will happen. There is no precedent for a Member State leaving the EU, the process will take an estimated two years, if not longer and we are unsure what the post-Brexit relationship will look like. The difficulty in predicting what will happen arises with the economy, although we have seen some market volatility and the pound lose some value, the real economy, that is people completing their work and remaining in employment has continued just as it was prior to the 23 June, 2016 and since then we have seen Canada and the USA as well as current EU Member States request trade agreements. In order to attain trade agreements and to secure the economy there will be an intense period of negotiations with both the EU and none EU countries. There are two models of relationship that we can a look at to try and ass... Most 401(k) plans are laden with high fees and underperforming investment choices. If you want that to change, youll have to speak up. Heres the problem with the intentionally intimidating world of retirement investing: Many financial advisors who sell retirement investments have no legal obligation to put your financial interests first; they can (and will) sell you the product for which they receive the highest commission. (But there are good guys; look for fee-only financial advisors who are fiduciaries, meaning they have to put your interests first.) Most 401(k) plans are intentionally complicated and riddled with high fees that enrich investment companies at the expense of your lifes savings. These fees seem tinyone percent here, a quarter of a percent therebut when compounded over 30 years can add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars flowing out of your account. To make matters worse, many of the expensive mutual funds in your 401(k) may perform worse than if you invested completely at random. Most 401(k) plans are laden with high fees and underperforming investment choices. If you want that to change, youll have to speak up. Heres the problem with the intentionally intimidating world of retirement investing: If this pisses you off (and it should), you may be able to do something about it by lobbying your employer to re-negotiate its 401(k) plan, or change pr... dstuffs will face the Employment Relations Authority next week over claims the company pays workers in the South Island less than it pays workers in the North.FIRST union organiser Rachel Boyack says South Island supermarket employees are paid about $2 less an hour than North Island staff."[Foodstuffs] have said that they're paid less because it's the South Island, she told Stuff. The jaw drops on our side of the table. I have never heard an employer say that South Island staff should be paid less."Foodstuffs, however, disputed FIRST's claim.This is incorrect, Foodstuffs representative Antoinette Laird told HRM. At no time have the stores or their Employer Advocate ever made the comment that staff are paid $2 less because they are in South Island.Laird stressed that it the issue is the business of individual stores and their owners.It is not appropriate for Foodstuffs to comment on the bargaining process as we are not involved, she added. You've reached your limit - Register for free now for unlimited access To read the full story, just register for free now - GET STARTED HERE Already subscribed? Log in below Zealand businesses are facing a major skills shortage but according to one industry expert help from overseas could ease the pain.A recent Hays survey revealed that almost three-quarters of employers believe the skill shortage will have a negative impact on their department or organization 49 per cent said they expected the effect to be minor while 25 per cent said it would be significant.The study also showed that 29 per cent of employers increased overtime and extra hours over the last 12 months yet another side effect of the ongoing skills shortage.However, Hays New Zealand MD Jason Walker said international help could go some way to bridging the difficult skills gap whether that was Kiwis returning home or bolstering overseas recruitment.Providing some relief is the number of Kiwis returning home from Australia aware they can now secure good roles, he told HRM, adding that New Zealand employers are also more open to hiring or sponsoring overseas applicants.An incredible 76 per cent of employers said they would consider employing or sponsoring a qualified overseas candidate in skill-short areas, up from 70 per cent last year.Its a noticeable change that Walker says is understandable in todays job market.Walker also commented on New Zealands employers reluctance to boost wages an approach he warned may not last much longer.Its worth noting that while employers are not yet using salary to attract and retain highly-skilled professionals, they may not be able to maintain this salary stance for long, he told HRM.Already employees are starting to take matters into their own hands by directly ask their boss for a pay rise.In the past year 70 per cent of employees did not ask for a pay rise but 53 per cent say they will do so in the year ahead and 30 per cent are yet undecided. We all love wandering aimlessly through makeup aisles, whether it be at Sephora or our local drugstore. For us makeup lovers, it's our safe space. But did you know some of your favourite makeup, skincare and hair care lines were birthed in this great country we call Canada? Sure, you know Aritzia, lululemon and Joe Fresh are all Canadian fashion brands, but the True North is also home to some of the biggest beauty brands on the market right now. Advertisement Here are 10 Canadian beauty brands that are ruling the beauty industry: #TheAmuseBouche L to R: Spritzer, Thistle, Kale, Liquorice, Molasses, Lavender Jam! Available @sephora A photo posted by BITE Beauty (@bitebeauty) on Jun 23, 2016 at 2:04pm PDT Conquering the shelves at Sephora, Toronto's Bite Beauty lives by the motto "what goes on your lips should do more than just colour. It should be good for you, too!" Handcrafting creamy matte lipsticks with both nourishing and restorative benefits, Bite uses all natural and organic ingredients in their products, including protective antioxidants like resveratol. And just to prove how loyal this brand is to its country, it released a maple collection exclusively in Canada. The names of the lipsticks? Braised Maple, Mulled Maple and Candied Maple ... just to name a few. If you're into lazy girl makeup, you'll love Canadian sisters, Taylor and Ally Frankel, and their oh-so-cool beauty brand Nudestix. With the help of their mom, Jenny Frankel, the sisters designed easy-to-use crayons that cover all your bases from your cat eye to your contour, bold lip to standout brow. And hey, to already have a booming beauty business on shelves in Sephora while you're still teenagers? Pretty epic, eh? Advertisement Toronto-born hairstyle Marc Anthony is a legend in the hair world. When he first launched his hair-care range 20 years ago, he did it at none other than Shoppers Drug Mart. Now, with his products being must-haves all over the world (Curl Envy Perfect Curl Cream has become a cult fave), Marc Anthony includes everyone from Kate Bosworth to Justin Bieber as his celeb clients. Pinks all around Happy #NationalPinkDay #loveILIA A photo posted by ILIA (@iliabeauty) on Jun 23, 2016 at 10:04am PDT Ilia knows that skin is important, which is why they have an ethical-sustainable approach to their beauty. Hailing from Vancouver, products are filled with certified organic bio-active botanicals that nourish and rejuvenate the skin. From concealers to lip crayons, Ilia is changing the organic beauty world one step at a time. Advertisement If you don't own a product from MAC, then are you truly Canadian? The powerhouse brand got its start in Toronto before joining the Estee Lauder Companies in 1994. Now, the company, which celebrates diversity and is always at the forefront of fashion, is the world's leading professional makeup authority. Lise Watier believes great makeup begins with great skincare. That's why this beauty brand from Montreal has a collection of products for the face and skin. And one thing we love about Lise Watier? They believe fragrance is like a beauty accessory and is needed with every look. We agree. Born in Toronto, Consonant Skincare wants everything that goes on your body to be good for your body, that's why all their skincare is 100 per cent natural. Advertisement Nature always wins. Gear up with Pocket Pharmacy, a tool kit to tackle life's daily challenges. #CelebrateHim A photo posted by Saje Natural Wellness (@sajewellness) on Jun 14, 2016 at 2:28pm PDT Ever had a killer migraine you just couldn't shake off? You probably should have applied some Peppermint Halo to that. The roll-on product is one of many that makes Saje a unique and exciting beauty brand. The Vancouver-founded brand created aromatherapy-based skincare and remedies which will help you naturally fight off your pesky illnesses. A favourite beauty line for the likes of Gisele Bundchen to Miranda Kerr, RMS Beauty is the Vancouver makeup brand that uses simple, organic ingredients. In an interview with Vancity Buzz, founder Rose-Marie Swift said that doing makeup at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was what really inspired her to start her own line after she realized how many chemicals and heavy metals were in the makeup products she used. Fill in your lips with our #Swimmables Lip Pencil (available in 3 shades!) for a waterproof lip that will withstand any body of water - from a swim in the ocean to getting stuck in an afternoon downpour! Get yours today @ultabeauty for all of your summer adventures. #cargo #CARGOCosmetics A photo posted by Cargo Cosmetics (@cargocosmetics) on Jun 24, 2016 at 7:39am PDT Advertisement Founded in 1996 by Hana Zalzal in Toronto, Cargo Cosmetics became a hit in Hollywood after the release of the line blu_ray: high-def-friendly blushes, concealer and powders, which holds photochromatic pigments, making all the celebs look camera ready. Now, the brand is sold everywhere from Kohls to Ulta.com. Chic. Follow Huffington Post Canada Style on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter! Also on HuffPost Ottawas controversial Saudi arms deal isnt a perfect fit for Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus mandate to revitalize the countrys peacekeeping role in the world, and Canadas new representative on the United Nations human rights committee knows it. Vancouver-based lawyer Marcia Kran was elected to the 18-member committee last week marking the first time in over a decade Canada has had a member on the high-profile UN group. Advertisement Trudeau celebrated Krans election with a familiar catchphrase: Canada is back on the @UN human rights committee. Congrats Marcia Kran on winning the support of your colleagues from around the world. Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 23, 2016 The Huffington Post asked the new UN committee member if its inconsistent for Canada to be on a committee on human rights while the country she represents approved a $15-billion deal to sell military arms to Saudi Arabia. Acknowledging the deal, the accomplished lawyer said in an interview that she thinks all countries are developing countries when it comes to human rights, adding theres room for improvement in all nations. None of the independent experts that have been nominated for the committee come from countries with spotless or glowing human rights record. All countries have to improve. Some more than others. Advertisement According to a recent report, Canada is now the worlds second-largest exporters of arms to the Middle East. The United States holds the top spot. Nobodys perfect Krans election to the esteemed position adds an extra spring to the Liberals step. It falls in line with the partys pledge to bring real change to Canada's international image and once again win a seat on the UN Security Council. Real change under the Liberals has, of course, included the introduction of measures to undo controversial Conservative laws, including the so-called second-class citizenship bill and language requirements for immigrants. The new government has also committed to doubling funds to help developing countries tackle climate change. But the controversial Saudi arms deal has repeatedly dogged Liberals in their first eight months in government. Advertisement A Canadian LAV (light armoured vehicle) arrives to escort a convoy at a forward operating base near Panjwaii, Afghanistan at sunrise on Nov.26, 2006. (Photo: Bill Graveland/The Canadian Press) Human rights advocates have been critical of the deal, urging the federal government to cancel it over the possibility the Canadian-made military vehicles may be used against Saudi Arabia citizens through various means of suppressing dissent. Saudi Arabia has earned itself a reputation as a notorious violator of human rights. With strict codes of religious orthodoxy enforced by religious police sometimes violently. The Al Saud family continue to rule the country under an absolute monarchy. The Gulf nation has justified previous arms import deals as necessary to protect itself from so-called Islamic State militants and Iranian forces, Shia Muslim rivals. An UN report released earlier this year accused the country of violating international law and indiscriminately executing widespread and systematic bombing campaigns that killed civilian targets in Yemen. Advertisement We need to ensure that we are respected on the world stage by keeping our word. Justin Trudeau Trudeau defended the controversial deal in April saying, Fundamentally, this issue is a matter of principle. The principle at play here is that Canada's word needs to mean something in the international community Then in May, when pressed on the issue by NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair in a Commons debate, Trudeau said the government needs to be able to project upon the world that when Canada agrees to something, it sticks to its word. He finished his point by reiterating, We need to ensure that we are respected on the world stage by keeping our word. Recently, Saudi officials have intensified crackdowns on dissent perceived to violate the countrys broad anti-terrorism laws. 18 persons of high moral character Kran joins other newly elected members representing Israel, Egypt, South Africa, Latvia, Germany, Mauritania, Paraguay, and Portugal. They join member countries including France, Greece, Italy, Japan, Montenegro, Tunisia, Uganda, and the United States. Advertisement Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shakes hands with United Nations General Secretary Ban Ki-moon at the United Nations headquarters in New York on March 16, 2016. (Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press) Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Dion nominated Kran back in March during a speech to the UNs Human Rights Council in Geneva. One of the advantages to Krans candidacy was her previous work with the UN in Vienna and Geneva, she said. Krans election is indicative of Canadas renewed commitment to human rights here and abroad, which has been warmly welcomed by the international community, Global Affairs spokesperson Rachna Mishra wrote in an email statement to HuffPost Canada. She was elected to the position after winning the first of three possible ballot votes on June 23. The human rights council is different from the committee. Saudi Arabia chairs the council, a separate entity from the committee where Kran sits. Advertisement Committee members are independent experts who monitor implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights a key UN treaty. Despite the baggage the Saudi arms deal may bring to Canadas place on the human rights committee, Kran said its a good forum to bring these kinds of contentious issues forward. All 18 members must be persons of high moral character, according to the UN. This committee is a very good way of bringing knowledge of so many from different legal systems together to objectively point out what needs to be done in all countries including our own, Kran said. Also on HuffPost: In what he called a "cathedral of freedom," U.S. President Barack Obama pointed to a Canadian cabinet minister as an example of what's possible when refugees are embraced in this land of immigrants and strangers. The acknowledgement of Democratic Institutions Minister Maryam Monsef who came to Canada from Afghanistan the age of 11 without knowing much English and without her father was perhaps the most emotional moment in Obama's historic address to the House of Commons Wednesday. Advertisement The president touched on many issues, but consistently circled back to a call to reject the toxic, fear-driven politics that preys on the immigrant, the refugee, the vulnerable, and any who seem different. U.S. President Barack Obama addresses the House of Commons in Ottawa. (Photo: The Canadian Press) "We have to call this mentality what it is a threat to the values we profess, the values we seek to defend," Obama said. It is an obligation, he later added, to boldly stand up against the "slander and hate" levelled against Muslims and those who worship differently. Advertisement And on those refugees fleeing Syria only to face suspicion or scorn, Obama said Canadians and Americans must always remember "we were all once strangers." "When refugees escape barrel bombs and torture, when migrants cross deserts and seas seeking a better life, we cannot simply look the other way," the president said. "We certainly can't label as possible terrorists vulnerable people who are fleeing terrorists." 'The girl who fled Afghanistan by donkey and camel and jet plane' Obama said Canada and the U.S. will continue to welcome refugees, while still satisfying security concerns. Budgets are tight and not everyone can be helped, but the president said now is the time to try. He lauded Canadians for leading the way by opening their "hearts and their homes," by knitting toques in the dead of winter for newcomers. "And we see the refugees who feel that they have a special duty to give back, and seize the opportunity of a new life," Obama said. Advertisement "Like the girl who fled Afghanistan by donkey and camel and jet plane. And who remembers being greeted in this country by helping hands and the sounds of robins singing," he said. "And today she serves in this chamber and in the cabinet because Canada is her home." The camera caught Monsef's smile as a chamber of freedom erupted in applause. Thank you @POTUS for recognizing my family's journey. More work to do together to support refugees around the world. pic.twitter.com/hR7bUnDQ4s Maryam Monsef (@MaryamMonsef) June 29, 2016 CLARIFICATION - Sept. 22, 2016: MP Maryam Monsef issued a statement that she recently learned from her mother that she was in fact born in Iran, and not Afghanistan. Monsef's mother said she felt it didn't matter to tell her daughters because under Iranian law, they were born to Afghan parents and not considered Iranian citizens. Also on HuffPost Three Amigos Summit 2016 See Gallery Why you should be thankful for your job here at PermaCorp: 1. Our owners have wisely diversified the products and services that we offer in order to create multiple streams of income. This makes us relatively stable because we aren't relying on only one business sector to bring in money. i.e. only oil or only residential. 2. There are tens of thousands of people unemployed in Alberta right now. 3. Since Christmas I regularly come to work and find hundreds of resumes in my inbox. Sometimes more than one thousand. If I need to find another employee it is so easy. Be thankful that you are one of the lucky ones that already work here! Baby Storm, a then-four-month-old Toronto tot who was being raised "genderless," became one of the biggest viral news stories worldwide back in 2011. A Toronto Star article headlined "Parents keep child's gender secret" explained how Storm's parents sent a birth announcement email that read: "We've decided not to share Storm's sex for now a tribute to freedom and choice in place of limitation, a stand up to what the world could become in Storms lifetime (a more progressive place?)" Advertisement Soon after being published, the story took over the newspaper's website traffic, and soon spread south via aggregator sites like the Drudge Report and Fark.com before crossing over to Fox News, CNN, "The Today Show," "The View" and so on. "And then it went global. We had two book offers, we had people calling from Australia and Russia and Europe and the United States. Dr Phil and Oprah," dad David Stocker recalls during an interview at the social justice-based City View Alternative School. That's where he's the teacher rep for the middle school's Queer-Straight Alliance and helped implement Canada's first voluntary all-gender washroom. The original article alone had over 35,000 comments within days, and follow-up opinion pieces and TV segments were everywhere. Everyone had an opinion on Stocker and his partner Kathy Witterick's parenting choices. Some were supportive of their decision to raise their child free from gender norms, while others vehemently criticized them for imposing their political ideology or worried about future bullying. As Witterick wrote in a Postmedia piece, "We have received many letters that include intelligent, heartfelt, research and experience based support for the idea. We've also heard some articulate and meaningful concerns expressed. We've witnessed a discussion erupt that could be transformative. Advertisement "[But] the strong, lighting-fast, vitriolic response was a shock." Five years later, HuffPost Canada spoke to Stocker about the whole experience, how Storm identifies now, and the role Storm's sibling Jazz played in all of this. Why do you think this story blew up so big? All sorts of reasons. There's a fairly ingrained adultism. We don't largely believe that young people have the right to make their own decisions, which can be different from their parents and guardians. [We live in] a culture where adults tell kids what to do all the time dress this way, go to this place, eat this thing. So I think that played a certain role. To say my kid can go into Value Village and select their own clothes as long as they fit and are functional, pick whatever you want.' Or my kid can decide what pronoun they are happy with. It was so new to people. Do you think the story would still be as sensational in 2016 compared to 2011? No, and at the same time, I'm almost certain that parents would largely not choose to do the same thing. People are still embedded in saying "I'm having a girl." I asked Storm last night "Do you remember any of that? Why were you in the newspaper?" And Storm said, "because when people asked you if I am a boy or a girl, you said 'I can't tell you that, only Storm will be able to tell you that some day.'" Advertisement That's still the case today. You have a kid, you can say that kid is male-assigned at birth, and there's still some social construct around that, right? But is that kid a boy, a girl, both, neither? Has Storm picked a pronoun? Storm has picked a pronoun, her gender identity is she. Assigned at birth, still nobody knows. At the time, Jazz was Storm's brother who liked long hair and pink dresses. I read that Jazz has since picked a female pronoun, and that her experience was what fueled your initial decision to let Storm decide. Jazz has been trans-identified since the later end of six years old, just before seven. She is quite an activist in the field. She presented at the Philadelphia Trans Health Conference last year. She was nine, she's 10 now. Would you change anything about how the Storm situation rolled out? I would say it was a very difficult series of months. There were people who had no qualms about approaching, in particular Kathy, on the street and saying really nasty things. I was here in the bubble of City View, so it was just activism. Strategically, if you look at the fallout of all the discussions that took place, and the documentaries that were produced afterward, and the more engaged in-depth conversations, I think it was really valuable. It was a perfect Storm, so to speak. Story continues after slideshow: Baby Storm in 2011 See Gallery Advertisement The commenters and the people who approached you on the street, they were personally affronted by someone doing this because they were having their beliefs challenged. But also a lot of people probably had never thought about this. How did it affect your friends and family? An interesting thing that happens is that the people standing around you, some of them say things that you never knew they thought. There it is, the transphobia, or the homophobia, or whatever. And then other people in your life, who you never knew felt so passionately about it because they never talked about it, are saying this is very important to me and I take strength from this message. So it refines your social network to create more support around the people who need it. Jazz probably has the most ideal parents a trans kid could have, but not every child would have such support. In the discussion over gender-neutral bathrooms and sex-ed updates, some have been asking why we have to deal with these issues in school, that it should be a parent's choice. Explain why school should be the place where this is taught? In any public-facing institution your recreation programs, your libraries, your schools you want to catch the young kids who are at high risk for all things we know about, anxiety, depression and suicide, because they are experiencing homophobia, transphobia, racism, sexism, whatever it is. And to make [kids] aware, these are your rights in this province, in this country. Let's make sure you have the words to articulate that and express your experience and fight alongside everyone else here for your rights. Also on HuffPost: From welcoming Syrian refugees with open arms to rescuing a pig from Fort McMurray, Alta. to travelling to Tim Hortons by dogsled 2016 has seen some ultra-Canadian stories. For Canada Day, we took a look back at some of the year's most inspiring and hilarious headlines so far: Advertisement Justin Trudeau greets a family of refugees from Syria as they arrive at Pearson International airport, in Toronto, on Dec. 11, 2015. (Photo: Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press) Advertisement Ziad Khabbaz, right, a refugee from Syria, is embraced by Hasan Abdeen, a family friend from Syria and recent arrival to Canada, as he and his family arrive at Toronto's Pearson Airport on Dec. 9, 2015. (Photo: Chris Young/The Canadian Press) Advertisement Our crew taking their first rest since leaving #shpk yesterday evening. #ymmfirepic.twitter.com/a2iBdU1xhg Strathcona Fire (@StrathconaFire) May 4, 2016 Officers canvasing Fort McMurray are finding all kinds of new friends today. #YMMfirepic.twitter.com/xFliVf10QB RCMP Alberta (@RCMPAlberta) May 9, 2016 Advertisement Advertisement Tory MP Arnold Viersen spits hot fire in the House. (Photo: Parlvu screengrab) Advertisement Brock Wijnbeek posted this photo of his friends modified Smart Car on Reddit. (Photo: Brock Wijnbeek/BCW Contracting) Happy birthday, Canada. May your headlines always be as brilliant as you are. Also On HuffPost: This lovable monkey and his yellow-wearing friend have shared holidays from Hanukkah to St. Patrick's Day with their young readers, and now, they've taken on Ramadan. "It's Ramadan, Curious George" is one of the franchise's latest releases and it has George and his caregiver, the Man in the Yellow Hat, follow Kareem and his family as they celebrate the month of fasting observed by Muslims. Advertisement Throughout the tale, George helps Kareem through his first fast, distracting him when he gets hungry, and then joins him for the daily sundown feast, called iftar. The Man in the Yellow Hat takes part as well, trading his signature accessory for a gifted yellow fez. Later, they celebrate Eid, the end celebration of the month. Official Curious George Ramadan book. Love this! pic.twitter.com/40Bs5hlCMl Raz (@raztweets) June 18, 2016 The author, Hena Khan tells CBC's The Current that the publishers approached her to pen the children's book. Advertisement She said they wanted to add the Islamic holiday to their books, considering that they've included other religious holidays, like Christmas. The book serves as a great learning tool for kids who do not come from an Islamic background, but for Khan, she's especially glad that it's a book Muslim children can see themselves represented in. "I wanted Muslim children to go to their school library or local bookstore and find a book about themselves." The Pakistani-American tells the Toronto Star that she couldn't find many books she related to as a kid, and that's why she started writing them when she had the chance. "I wanted Muslim children to go to their school library or local bookstore and find a book about themselves," the 42-year-old tells the Star. Advertisement Khan has written other books for Muslim children such as, "Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns" and "Night of the Moon," which is also about Ramadan. In "It's Ramadan, Curious George," elements of Islam like charity work are also touched upon as the family and friends stock charity food baskets. Buzzfeed also notes the wide range of skin tones used by the illustrator to show off the Muslim community's racial diversity. This year, the holy month comes to an end on July 5. Also on HuffPost The U.K.'s looming departure from the European Union (EU) is creating economic uncertainty in countries around the world including Canada. But if you ask Capital Economics, the Great White North has bigger things to worry about. In an economic outlook released this week, Capital Economics called Brexit "the least of Canada's worries," saying the country's exports to the U.K. only amount to about one per cent of its GDP. Only 1.6 per cent of its imports come from there. Advertisement The firm predicted even if the U.K.'s economy shrinks by five per cent, and the EU's by two per cent (which is "well beyond even the most bearish forecasts," it said), then Canada is likely to see its GDP fall by about 0.1 per cent. "Unless the Brexit decision somehow drives the U.S. economy into recession, Canada should be OK," it said. The real threat, according to Capital Economics, comes in the form of the presumptive U.S. Republican nominee, who has publicly mused about renegotiating NAFTA. Advertisement "We would view a Trump win as very bad for Canada's economy," the report said. "If he doesn't push the U.S. economy into recession by slashing public spending, Canada's exports might end up as collateral damage in his push to increase protectionism." But if you ask TD Bank, the tough rhetoric on protectionism might have more bark than bite. The bank reported last week that presidents tend to take a softer tone on free trade once they end up in office. "Protectionist policies are like trying to put the toothpaste back in the tube it's difficult to do, messy, and can be wasteful," TD Bank said. But Capital Economics wasn't exactly optimistic about Canada's economy should Hillary Clinton win the White House, either. Advertisement The firm said a Clinton presidency would be "neutral for Canada's economic outlook." Also on HuffPost: Although the fashion industry has come a long way in terms of diversity and has embraces blurring gender boundaries, there are still plenty of commonly-held beliefs involving LGBTQ communities and fashion. These stereotypes tend to look like this for gay women: Advertisement and this for gay men: Being pigeonholed can be a source of routine annoyance, but it can also have adverse consequences in the workplace. An American study shows that more than 42 per cent of gay employees say they have experienced discrimination on the basis of their identity, and the stat climbs to 90 per cent for trans employees. We asked queer and trans Canadians working in fashion about some of the enduring stereotypes they encounter: Advertisement The Stereotype Of The Gay Male Designer If you think fierce is the only word in Patrick Salonga's vocabulary, think again. Salonga, 25, is a gay fashion designer whose work has strutted down Toronto Men's Fashion Week. He's observed how the industry typecasts male designers as gay until proven otherwise. In doing so, it's also upheld certain traits associated with gay designers. "If you are a gay man in fashion ... you are very snooty and rude," Salonga told HuffPost Canada Style. "You think too highly of yourself and your key word is probably 'fierce.'" While gay men have greatly influenced high fashion, the belief that they are the majority has led some to blame gay designers for the industry's woes. Kanye West may have claimed not being gay prevented him for succeeding in fashion, but there are no statistics that prove the fashion industry is made up of only gay designers. Advertisement Salonga hasn't experienced any discrimination in his profession, but thinks it's still an enduring problem. "I feel like realistically stereotypes are gonna be here for a long time, sadly," Salonga says. "All we can do is keep talking about it and keep educating everyone. It might not be completely gone, but hopefully it'll get way better." ...And The Stereotype of the Lesbian Fashion Designer Good morning! A photo posted by Mina Smart (@minadanger) on Feb 29, 2016 at 6:16am PST Mina Smart designs women's outerwear and latex lingerie as half of House of Etiquette, which she runs with her partner. Smart, 30, is a trans woman. She knows that people assume that just because the couple dresses femininely, they can't be lesbians. Advertisement "I feel like the 'all Lesbians have no fashion sense' or 'all lesbians are butch, or masculine presenting' are pretty present in fashion (and elsewhere)," Smart says. "I think that stereotypes are hurtful, and affect peoples preconceptions... these stereotypes can cause lesbian women to be overlooked as potential designers." You Are Not What You Wear Contrary to belief, sashaying and glitter does not a queer make. Gay men and lesbians living in cities no longer wear colour-coded handkerchiefs to signal kinks, but that hasn't stopped certain aesthetic looks from being associated with sexuality. TJ Jans, who was the first transgender model to walk Western Canada Fashion Week, says stereotypes about how queer women dress are still popular. "The classic stereotypes regarding lesbians, that they are very butch, wear lots of plaids, baggy clothes, and Birkenstocks still hangs on," Jans tells HuffPost Canada Style. "People tend to forget that there are also femmes, who prefer to wear makeup and dresses." Advertisement Fashion blogger Stephen-Thomas Maciejowski says he has seen trends come and go without blinking an eye, but was taken aback the first time he saw men wearing high heels in a fashion show. He's since realized that it was okay for anyone to wear anything. Instead of judging people for blurring which gender wears what, he reminds himself that society conditions people to only accept gender fashion norms. "Now I say whatever, they want to be tall," Maciejowski says. "Theyre having fun and they like the way they look." Myth: Gender Presentation = Gender Identity Jans, who uses the gender-neutral pronouns they, them, and their, says that verbal harassment happens constantly for people who challenge gendered clothing. Advertisement "When I was still identifying as a woman, but also wearing masculine clothing, I often had people glare or yell profanities at me," they says. "I've had more than one incident where a truck or car full of men followed me yelling threats." Jans also takes issue with how drag culture, popularized by cisgender men in RuPaul's Drag Race, has been misunderstood as a transgender issue. In reality, drag queens and drag kings who don on bombastic personas do not identify as their gender performance. #IdLikeToTeachYou the difference between transgender and a drag queen. See the difference? One is a man in a dress. pic.twitter.com/Ietxy9vkQW Joseph Petrangelo (@joemed3) May 25, 2016 "Transgender people are not performing their gender, they are their gender and generally they wear clothes they feel fit the gender they are," Jans says. One trans woman of colour feels the same way. She notices that drag performers get more attention and paying work than trans individuals. Advertisement Xav is a 24-year-old model with Lorde Inc., a modelling agency devoted to diverse representation in the fashion industry. Xav, who goes by one name, says that before she came out as trans, her superiors in different agencies would call her out on being "sissy," "girly," and "effeminate." "Some people would say it in a joking way, but there's that undertone to everything," Xav tells HuffPost Canada Style. "There's what you say and what people feel it." In her line of work, Xav says that being trans means her body image will often be presented an androgynous manner by those who hired her. They would mix masculine and feminine clothing items and makeup choices. "Because I don't have breasts and I have not started doing hormone therapy, they would want me to look androgynous," Xav says. You Cannot Tell Someone Is LGBTQ By How They Act A photo posted by THE LIFE OF STEVO (@stevotrann) on Jan 19, 2016 at 2:51pm PST Advertisement Stevo Trann, a 26-year-old model from Montreal, says that most people have to ask if he's gay. Describing himself and co-workers as simple and down-to-earth, he says those who ask him about his orientation probably buy into the myth that most queer men act flamboyantly. "I just think people have to keep in mind that we are in 2016. I don't feel like I have to make a statement being gay," Trann tells HuffPost Canada Style. "This is who I am and I love the way I am." Clothes Cannot Be Gay ... Except For This Sweater Clothing cant be gay. Even the group behind the Gay Sweater agree. The word "gay" has long been used as a negative descriptor for anything or anyone. The consequence of hearing one's identity used as a catch-all term for anything horrible can be harmful. A University of Michigan study shows that the phrase "Thats so gay" can negatively impact the health of lesbian, gay, and bisexual college students, resulting in lose of appetite and increased isolation. Advertisement Enter the gay sweater. Woven with hair from more than 250 gay Canadians, the sweater one of the few articles of clothing that is literally gay. Jeremy Dias from the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity is touring classrooms nationwide with the sweater, using it as a tool to teach children about LGBT acceptance. He remembers many reactions to the hairy sweater, ranging from curiosity to disgust, but one in particular spoke to him. "One child, he was wearing the sweater ... he interrupted the group in the middle of their presentation, saying he 'didnt feel it anymore,'" Dias tells HuffPost Canada Style. For Dias, that was exactly the point. "The longer you wear it, the more you get used to it. That is literally what homophobia feels like," Dias says. "The more that you hear 'Thats so gay, hes such a fag' thats part of our daily reality. Its a complicated negotiation of violence and pain." Follow Huffington Post Canada Style on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter! Also on HuffPost A father in Taipei, Taiwan, was walking home from work late at night when he looked up and saw his son's face on a massive screen, asking his father to spend time with him. Lego teamed up with 6-year-old Hsiao Feng for "A Gift for Imagination" to create an ad that would get his father's attention. Advertisement The toy company said that working adults in Taipei "are some of the busiest in the world." Although the Labour Standards Act in Taiwan capped off working hours at 40 per week, many employees still work up to 12 hours a day. Feng's father was no exception. He often didn't have time to "pay attention to his son's imagination" because of his job. Feng wanted to share his vivid imagination with his dad, so Lego helped him film an ad that was showcased all over the internet, TV, billboards and the 100-metre screen at Taipei Arena. In the video, the six-year-old explains that his father repairs and sells cars, and he showed off an "unbreakable" car that he created with toy bricks. Advertisement "I will give this car to my dad. He will never have to repair it, and wouldn't be so tired anymore," he said. When Feng's father saw the ad as he walked home from work, he became emotional and thanked his son for "wanting to leave the best" for him. "I promise to spend more time with you, and fill your childhood with the best memories," said the father. Also on HuffPost Fix Our Schools The summer has officially started for most school kids, and many in Ontario will be returning to buildings in the fall that are literally falling apart. Leaking roofs and mould are just a few of the dubious features that students have to deal with in classrooms across the province. Its so bad that a grassroots group has made fixing crumbling schools their singular focus. Advertisement Fix Our Schools also collects astonishing photos of the kind of disrepair teachers and students face daily. Mould growing in a school shower. (Photo: Fix Our Schools) Krista Wylie, parent and co-founder of the Fix Our Schools campaign, told The Huffington Post Canada that trying to learn in these kinds of conditions has a negatively effect on students. They impact academic achievement. They impact health, she said. Wylie said shes had students complain that theyre sometimes too hot to concentrate. Indeed, out of Torontos 553 public elementary and high school buildings, only 160 have air conditioning, reported the National Post. Advertisement One Grade 11 student told her that he had water dripping on his paper from a leak in the roof while he was trying to write an exam. It doesnt take a rocket scientist to look at a leaky roof and say We should fix that, Wylie said, adding that some disrepair is unseen like old boilers. Perception of worth She explained that this kind of work environment can negatively impact the teachers as well. Its like a perception of worth, and what value does society place on this building? And I think that permeates. The Fix Our Schools campaign aims to lobby for more government funding for school repairs. Wylie said theyre pleased with the progress theyve made over the past two years, particularly with a provincial announcement earlier this week. The Ontario government committed an additional $1.1 billion to spend in school repairs for a total of $2.7 billion over the next two years. Advertisement The funding will enable school boards to repair roofs, update HVAC units and modernize electrical and plumbing systems, said a news release. It will also significantly improve more visible elements of schools that impact students' learning and well-being, including flooring, walls, ceilings, playing fields and more. Broken classroom window. (Photo: Fix Our Schools) Currently, there are an estimated $15 billion in outstanding repairs, but a lot more issues actually go unreported. When Wylies son was so cold at school that wore his winter coat all day, he didnt think to tell anyone because he thought it was normal. In part, why this issue has perpetuated for so long is that students dont even know that their learning environment is incorrect or less than it should be, she said. Advertisement Some parents and faculty often decline to report problems, according to Fix Our Schools, because they dont want to shed a light on the fact that their school is in bad condition. Wylie hopes to continue working with the Ontario government in order to improve the school experience because, "It remains a $15 billion problem that impacts two million children." Check out more photos of Ontario schools that need repairs: AFP via Getty Images A group of 300 South African firefighters work to uproot a tree as they mop-up hot spots in an area close to Anzac, outside of Fort McMurray, Alberta on June 2, 2016. The first convoys of weary, anxious residents returned to wildfire-ravaged Fort McMurray on Wednesday, a month after they were forced to flee the Canadian oil city due to the inferno. / AFP (Photo credit should read /AFP/Getty Images) The Alberta government confirmed Wednesday that South African firefighters who came to the province's aid in Fort McMurray were paid properly under labour laws. The 300 international firefighters left Fort McMurray just over a week after they arrived, due to the pay dispute. Advertisement In response, the province said the workers, who were contracted through a South African job-creation program called Working on Fire, were paid in the same salary range as Alberta's wildland firefighters. Wildfire crews in Alberta receive between $21 and $25 per hour. A group of South African firefighters pose with their country's flag before heading to Fort McMurray, Alta. (Photo: Air Canada/Canadian Press) The crew was in northern Alberta to tackle an enormous wildfire that forced over 88,000 people from their homes and destroyed thousands of buildings. Advertisement We are grateful that these women and men came to help us in our time of need. We are pleased to get confirmation that they have been paid in accordance with our provinces labour laws," said Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Oneil Carlier in a statement. In June, Alberta Premier Rachel Notley said the contract with Working on Fire stipulated the workers would be paid $170 per day. Firefighters walked off the job, telling media that they were actually only receiving $15 per day for 12-hour days with another $35 per day promised on their return to South Africa. At the time, Working on Fire apologized for the dispute in a statement. "We are currently investigating the matter internally and wish to apologize to both the Canadian government and Canadian citizens for any inconvenience this may have caused," the statement read. With files from The Canadian Press Also on HuffPost: Thibault Pousset You might think stairways are just about getting from one floor to another. But they can be so much more. Apart from being architectural features, staircases can provide space for storage, display, reading niches, secret hideouts and more. The following examples from around the world will have you stepping up your staircase game. (Note: Some of the stairways would need adjustments to meet U.S. building codes.) Advertisement 1. To help make a compact Cape Cod getaway more airy and clutter-free, and to add something that would make up for the lack of a mudroom, architect Chris Brown opened a walled-in staircase to create some breathing room and bring in natural light from the floor above. Plywood boxes with MDF-fronted drawers beneath the stairs take full advantage of the space and create storage for shoes and other mudroom essentials. The column facing the kitchen has carved cubbies for a coffee machine, microwave and compact wine cooler and a display shelf. Brown says taking advantage of under-stair space for storage like this works especially well when the staircase is against an exterior wall of a home. In this case, an open stair would not have been visually interesting because there is nothing to see past the stair, he says. Hes designed similar stair storage to hold vacuums, folding chairs and home gym weights. 2. In this childrens bedroom, a staircase of rift-cut white oak with resin panels leads from a play area to a sleeping loft. A bookcase door beneath the stairs opens to reveal a hidden path to a lower-level play area. The remaining space stores toys, and theres also a pullout laundry hamper. Advertisement There is always some usable floor area below enclosed staircases which can be used for storage, whether it is through built-in cabinetry, as in this stair, or via a partial walk-in closet tucked beneath, says architect Tom Carrubba. 3. In New York, our small apartments often require us to get creative with space, says architect Sarah Zames. To connect a kitchen to a loft above, she designed a unit inspired by ship ladder stairs to minimize the amount of floor space used. A series of walnut-veneered stacked boxes displays books and mementos. 4. Homeowner and designer Nicola OMara built a wall-to-wall bookcase for storage and to add a colourful feature to the staircase in her English cottage. For further visual impact, she painted the treads in Farrow & Balls Railings paint. 5. A reading nook in a playroom of this Los Angeles home takes full advantage of under-stair space. The bookshelves beneath the seat pull out like a drawer to reveal more storage. The small door to the left opens to a hideout for the kids. The door to the right leads to a powder room. Advertisement 6. In France, this staircase begins as a cushioned bench beneath a platform that features display space for sculptures and artwork. 7. What cant this staircase do? Also in France, this design features a work area, plenty of storage and display space, and what appears to be a sleeping nook with a blanket. Perhaps for a dog? We say, Oui, sil vous plait! 8. A cabinet door opens to reveal deep storage drawers in this New York home. 9. In Burlington, Vermont, a small bench at the bottom of this staircase makes for a good spot to put on shoes. Shelves on the other side store books and display objects. 10. This nautical-inspired staircase with storage cubbies and drawers connects a bedroom to a loft above. (The loft has a code-compliant staircase, so this secondary version didnt need to meet building regulations.) 11. An elegant staircase in Melbourne, Australia, features a corner seat and a bottom tread that extends to form a spot in front of a roaring fireplace. Advertisement 12. Talk about double duty. A concrete ramp next to this staircase provides a sliding exit. You could also use it to push strollers and carts up and down. 13. An artistic French staircase blurs the lines between steps and book storage. 14. In this London penthouse apartment, the staircase cantilevers off a large cabinet unit that features a snug little reading spot below. 15. A steel landing in this Austin, Texas, home turns into a bench with book storage below. 16. One of the stair steps in this New York saltbox home turns into a bench and bookcase. 17. Multiple wooden landing pads extend to create display and seating space in this French home, showing that a simple staircase can be about so much more than ups and downs. "Jamaican? Ghanaian?...What are you?" That was one lady's response to me, after attempts to introduce my cultural background to her had failed. By no means, was this type of remark a first-time occurrence. I grew up in Canada, and am a second-generation child of immigrant parents; my mother from Jamaica, and my father from Ghana. I was not taught the language of either though, so I cannot converse in broken-down English; Patois nor can I speak twi. I can't fry up a dumpling dish, and vaguely understand the food chemistry behind fufu and banku. And all I can do is give an aloof smile in response to the insider cultural jokes of both lands. Many of my father's family especially, had a somewhat "sink or swim" mentality when it came to teaching me the ways of the land. They would spout out full-blown twi and expect me to understand. Only to realize by my baffled face that I did not speak their dialect, and then they would feign utter shock and displeasure. Advertisement Living in North America, I would get teased often by others who would call me a "fake African", or say I was a "Canadian-born." When I entered into my young adult phase, I had a longing to connect more with roots. That's why in the year of 2014, I made the decision to leave my full-time job and travel with my father to the "mother-land." The yearning desire I had to visit could not be explained. But stepping foot onto West African soil started to make things clearer for me. Upon arriving, I was instantly overcome with the feeling that I was home. I had last visited Ghana as a child many years ago, but the people, the culture, the way of life, even the very smell, brought up feelings of nostalgia. During my time in Ghana, I became eager to take in as much of the culture that I could. When in the city marketplace, I darted through the maze of people, as I strove to keep hot on my aunt and father's trail. Local city people in Accra walked right into incoming traffic, without shame. The impudent drivers honked loudly in response. My first time riding the minibus or the "tro-tro", became a bit like riding the ferris wheel at Centreville as a kid: I couldn't resist the urge to ooh and aah at the many "wonders." I was impressed by the fact that everyone instantly knew where they were going. This despite the fact that there are no signs on the buses, and no automated "Siri" sound-alike voice to inform you of upcoming stops en route. Advertisement Living in North America, I would get teased often by others who would call me a "fake African", or say I was a "Canadian-born." (This would offend me especially when in the midst of pure Africans; I wanted to be just like them). I don't deny that I understand little about West African culture; it is all strange and new to me. This manifested itself in many ways when I was in Ghana: My poorly timed questions; my rambling English tongue and awkwardness with twi phonetics and my overly exaggerated looks at the women in the market who balance products on their head. Even my sheer love of privacy, and lack of understanding of what community really means. Still, somewhere deep within, there is a part of me that does resonate with the culture, and seeks to understand it. Culture is a story that doesn't stop simply because you put down the book. A large part of self-identity is connected with culture, which is part of the reason I may have struggled with this growing up. But when it comes to multiculturalism today in Canada, it is imperative we learn how to see culture as a form of integration, not separation. Unity can be reflected in diversity. Our population has over 36 million people; 1 in 5 identify as a visible minority. There are over 200 ethnic groups represented here, and the ethnic diversity is constantly growing. With this comes the importance of having a system in place that addresses the various cultural needs. It goes beyond enacting a policy; there needs to be a desire and appreciation for other's cultures that comes with an atmosphere welcoming of all kinds of people, no matter where they are from. After my trip to Ghana, I grew to have more of a love for the country than ever before. When out on the streets of Toronto, I tote a brightly-coloured kente backpack that seems to attract attention from fellow West Africans; there are others that I sometimes catch giving a curious eye. Though I do not speak the language of my homeland, I have chosen to identify with it. Advertisement Culture is a story that doesn't stop simply because you put down the book. It lives on through the lives of the people who tell it. It is the duty of the generations before, to tell the story. But it is equally important, that the generations following be willing to ask. Then, it is up to our society to support the various peoples that reside here. Learning all languages should be encouraged, and not just the official languages of English and French. Ethnic foods and clothing should be easily accessible and we as a people should seek to understand any culture not of its own. Any land that practices these values is a place I would be proud to call home. ASSOCIATED PRESS In this Sunday, June 12, 2016, photo, Ridoy, 11, poses for a portrait as he works at a factory that makes metal utensils in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The World Day Against Child Labor, which was initiated in 2002 by the International Labor Organization to highlight the plight of child laborers, is observed across the world on June 12. (AP Photo/A.M. Ahad) Stock photo My kids love Canada Day -- the parades, the picnics and the fireworks. But like many adults, they can't really appreciate what it means to grow up 'glorious and free.' They have no basis for comparison. Advertisement What my kids do know is that they're free from school, which wrapped up just two days ago. They're delightedly (and repeatedly) sharing their joy over nine whole weeks without the daily routine of classroom learning. As a mom, however, school is one of the things I'm most grateful for this Canada Day. In my travels with World Vision, I've met children who work in factories and sweatshops overseas. And I see my kids' school years as part of the wonderful freedom they enjoy. Bithi (right)encourages child workers in their studies, at this drop-in learning centre in Dhaka, Bangladesh. But since her shifts in a garment factory increased to 12 hours, Bithi no longer has time to continue her own learning here. She shares that it used to be the highlight of her day. Photo/World Vision Advertisement In Canada, education isn't just an option -- it's considered essential for every child. We see it enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Child, and we strive to live it out. For one thing, our Canadian labour laws are set up so parents can support their children without taking their kids out of school to work. Forcing kids out of school This universal right to an education is something World Vision had in mind, when we urged Canadians to take our Conscious Consumer Challenge this spring. We wanted a fun, easy way for Canadians to begin considering the immense power they hold to influence the decisions made by huge corporations. As shoppers, we're all looking for low prices -- especially when budgets are tight. But there's a ripple effect, which reaches families in some of the world's poorest areas. There, parents may not be paid enough to support their children. Working conditions can be so poor, that parents get injured or even killed on the job. The result? Children often have no choice but to leave school and seek jobs themselves. Their wages are normally even lower than their parents'. And children are much more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse on the job. A fresh way to outfit your kids As you dress your kids for playtime, barbecues and camp this summer, I invite you to consider some new strategies. Does your kids really need closets full of cheap summer items, when a few, carefully chosen quality items would do just as well? Advertisement Here are three ways to dress your kids, while caring for the world's children: Make your first fairly traded purchase in honour of Canada Day! Founded by a Canadian girl still in grade school, the candy apple red "Ivy and Alex" dress is manufactured here in Canada and sold through the World Vision Canada Gift Catalogue. Photo/Ivy and Alex The dress is so versatile it converts to a tunic then a top as the girl in your life grows. Seeing it on your daughter, niece or family friend will remind you of a happy Canada Day -- and a step taken for children everywhere. Consider buying locally: Some Canadian companies are working hard to produce beautiful items made by workers who are fairly paid and treated. While it costs more to buy children's clothing made here, you may get more than the actual t-shirt. There's often a greater peace of mind. I recently discovered a company called mini mioche, which designs and makes its clothing right in my home city of Toronto. Their fabric is even knit here in town! Advertisement Having seen images of children crunched over sewing machines in China or Bangladesh, or struggled to get information from the companies I normally support, it did my heart good to visit the web page: where does my mini mioche t-shirt come from? I dream of a day when adult workers overseas are paid and treated fairly, so children don't need to work at all. Learn which clothing companies are taking steps in the right direction: I've often turned to MEC (Mountain Equipment co-op) to outfit my kids--and now teenager--for camp. I love their hats, t-shirts, hiking boots and rain coats. I can testify that the shoes and clothing hold up beautifully, to hand down to siblings and friends. I saw that MEC is one of the few companies which publicly names their overseas suppliers -- a critical step in reducing the risk of child labour in supply chains. It's something which most companies importing clothing into Canada have yet to do. Whenever you see these clothes on your kids, you may think of Canada Day in a whole new way. You'll recall the day you celebrated your own kids' freedoms, by championing the freedom of children around the world. Radius Images via Getty Images Rouge River Valley Park, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada The Rouge River and Valley ecosystem is surrounded by more than 100 square kilometres of publicly owned Greenbelt lands in an unusual location -- next to one of Canada's most-urbanized areas. Located within the eastern Greater Toronto Area and within Canada's endangered Carolinian Life Zone, the Rouge is home to sensitive forest and wetland areas, and more than 1,700 species of plants and animals. Advertisement Because of its unique location, it is also an important space for city-dwellers to get away from urban areas and spend time outside. Research shows that spending time in nature is good for our health. In fact, according to one study, even five minutes of viewing green space supports recovery from stress. Given these benefits, Ecojustice has actively pushed to establish and protect Rouge National Urban Park, Canada's first and only park of its kind. It's been a long process, but in June we were pleased to see the federal government take another step towards ensuring the integrity of this ecosystem. Advertisement Pushing for better protection In June 2014, when federal government introduced legislation to create the Rouge National Urban Park, it did not establish the park under Canada's existing National Parks Act. Instead, it introduced a new act, Bill C-40, the Rouge National Urban Park Act -- a statute much weaker than either the National Parks Act or Ontario's provincial park law. Notably missing from Bill C-40 was a commitment to preserve ecological integrity, a cornerstone of both the National Parks Act and the Ontario's Provincial Parks Act. Also missing from the bill were a commitment to preserve the parkland for future generations, requirements for a strong science-based ecological approach to park management, and requirements for public and scientific consultation to help create and implement the park management plan. Without the legal protection provided by the National Parks Act, habitat fragmentation, invasive species, surrounding development pressures and park over-development could degrade the integrity of the Rouge River ecosystem and park over time. Stronger legislation was needed to support and complement existing Ontario Greenbelt and Rouge Park Plans for restoring a sustainable system of interconnected natural areas and public trails within and beyond the park. Alarmed, a coalition of local, regional and national conservation groups asked Ecojustice to analyze Bill C-40 and recommend amendments to strengthen the bill. Happily, the new federal government has now addressed one of the key concerns: On June 9, the federal government tabled Bill C-18, which amends the ecosystem provisions of the Rouge National Urban Park Act. This amendment requires that maintenance or restoration of ecological integrity, through the protection of natural resources and natural processes, must be the first priority of the minister when considering all aspects of park management. The bill defines ecological integrity to mean a condition that is characteristic of its natural region and likely to persist, including abiotic components and the composition and abundance of native species and biological communities, rates of change and supporting processes. This definition of ecological integrity echoes language contained in the National Parks Act. What next? Despite this important progress, there is still room for improvement -- none of the other recommended amendments to the act have been made. Advertisement The park is still smaller than the 100 square kilometres of publicly owned Greenbelt lands which surround the Rouge River ecosystem, the minimum size Environmental Defence, Ontario Nature and Friends of the Rouge Watershed consider appropriate for improving ecological integrity and watershed health. The Ontario Greenbelt lands comprising the park's main ecological corridor and natural system between Lake Ontario and the Oak Ridges Moraine have not been acknowledged in the legislation, despite their acknowledgement being the stated policy of the Ontario government. Nor have the federal Pickering Airport lands been included in the park. These lands were set aside decades ago for an airport that has never been built due to lack of economic, environmental and social justification. Moving forward, Ecojustice will continue to monitor issues that arise during the review of the legislative amendments, the creation of the management plan and the operation of the park. We will also continue to work with the conservation groups that have fought so long to protect this natural environment on the edge of one of Canada's most urbanized areas. We believe that it is important for everybody -- regardless of where they live -- to have the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits that come from spending time outside. This piece was written by Ecojustice lawyer John Swaigen. As Canada's only national environmental law charity, Ecojustice is building the case for a better earth. Learn more at ecojustice.ca, or subscribe to receive updates from us via email. Advertisement Follow HuffPost Canada Blogs on Facebook MORE ON HUFFPOST: Welcome to Line Danci Read more [...] Peter Dazeley via Getty Images Dynamic microphone on stand with copy space "I'm actually glad to see the term 'rape culture' starting to pervade public consciousness through the media," says Kai Cheng Thom. "That term has specifically been used in mainstream media and that's amazing." For Kai -- a writer, performance artist, and social worker -- the fact that we're talking about rape culture at all is "a massive shift from even 10 years ago, when rape was mostly considered an individual tragedy, or something only related to mental illness. Now we're talking about rape as a culture or about rape as patriarchy, and that to me is a great sign because it means that feminism is at last starting to make it into popular mainstream culture, which is awesome." Advertisement The problem with this conversation though? "Most, if not all, mainstream feminism only represents a certain kind of person. Of course, we're talking about white, middle class, able-bodied, cisgender women." Too often, says Kai, marginalized communities such as trans folk aren't given a platform to talk about the issues, like sexual violence, that impact them. Kai is based in Montreal and has performed in venues across North America. Her work has been published widely in print and online, in publications including xoJane,Youngist, Matter and Matrix Magazine. She is currently a feature writer for Everyday Feminism and completing her training as a licensed psychotherapist. We spoke with Kai to learn more about how sexual violence and transmisogyny impact trans folk, and how media representation of these issues matters. Interviewer: What are the challenges you have seen in mainstream media reporting on sexual violence and rape enacted against trans women? What changes would you like to see? Advertisement Kai: "Now that we're in this moment -- the 'transgender tipping point,' as Time Magazine calls it -- we're seeing a lot of attention towards trans women's experience of sexual assault. There's this statistic that appears that many trans women are sexually assaulted. [But ] the media doesn't go too deeply into that. I can't think of media stories about how trans women in particular experience sexual assault, how that happens... there's only the numbers. "There's no real mainstream reporting that comes directly from trans [people]. What I would really like to see is trans women talking about themselves and trans women talking to each other. I would love to see trans women as expert consultants, instead of reporting from statistics generated by academics who are not trans people." Interviewer: How would you like to see/have you seen trans women creating consent culture? Kai: "I think a lot of great work has been done by trans women communities to help keep us safe from police brutality, from street violence and from violence in the sex work industry --although, of course, we still experience a lot of violence. "What I would love to see is trans women talking more about is what kind of sexual culture we want to create between us, and how trans men can become allies to trans women as we navigate through trans misogyny and patriarchy." Interviewer: Often survivors are portrayed as white, straight, cisgender, able-bodied women. How can the media avoid minimizing stories about sexual violence against survivors that don't fit this narrative? Advertisement Kai: "The easy answer is that media makers need to make a conscious effort to feature non-white cisgender able-bodied women in their work on sexual violence. Just saying, 'I am going to go out and interview people who are not my 'ideal victim,' that is a simple answer. "There's a more complicated issue there around how sexual assault is perceived to happen or not happen to marginalized women. There's the idea that we are not -- for a lack of a better word -- 'rapable.' The media doesn't care to report on these stories because it doesn't believe [trans] women. It boils down to only white women cisgender abled bodies are pure, are beautiful, are fragile. Everyone else is dirty, is sexualized, is not valuable enough to report on. "We need to say out loud why and how sexual violence happens to survivors who are marginalized." Interviewer: Statistics show most survivors do not report. Why is it important to have diverse representations of survivorship in media reporting? Kai: "As a social worker [who has supported] survivors: the mechanisms that we have in place in the mainstream -- particularly in the legal system -- are either not enough for most survivors, or the systems actively contribute to the harm and silencing of those survivors. "The reason [trans people of colour] don't report is because they are not believed. When you [report] to the police, police first of all don't necessarily recognize the [person's] gender and actively, violently [treat] those people. Advertisement "We need to have representation of trans women survivors in media because so many of us are survivors. [We] can't hold up this idea that there's only one way to survive because the way that white women of the middle class are able to survive and heal from sexual assault just isn't available to trans women of color and marginalized women in general." Interviewer: There's been a swell in media coverage of rape culture in recent months. What conversations are you glad to see happening, and what do we still need to address? Kai: "What we don't hear enough about is the way legal and social systems are shaped to prevent certain women from accessing control of their own representation. When do [trans and migrant people] get to speak about their own experiences and control the way which those stories are told? Why are we always waiting? Why do we have to wait for mainstream media to come to us and ask us to tell the stories? "We shaped this conversation around the concept that there is a single patriarchy without a face that's attacking all people the same way. That's simply not true. We experience patriarchy in different ways according to our social location." This blog is part of a series of interviews femifesto is publishing on media reporting and sexual violence in diverse communities across Canada. Advertisement Follow HuffPost Canada Blogs on Facebook MORE ON HUFFPOST: President Obama decided to reject TransCanada Corp.'s Keystone XL pipeline, ending seven years of debate over an infrastructure project that swelled into one of the most contentious environmental issues of his presidency. (Photo: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images) While President Barack Obama, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Pena Nieto, the three "amigos" of North America, are meeting in Canada, TransCanada Pipelines has filed a $15-billion lawsuit against the government of the United States. Citing chapter 11 of NAFTA (North America Free Trade Agreement), TransCanada alleges that the refusal to allow the construction of its Keystone XL pipeline is mere political posturing in favour of climate change; TransCanada claims that the Obama administration failed to protect the investments of a Canadian company. Advertisement Of course, TransCanada is referring to ISDS (Investor State Dispute Settlement) clauses in the free trade agreement signed in 1992 by the three countries. Trade agreements between countries are a good thing when they help the economy, but one must be wary of the fine print of such clauses that give precedence to foreign investors over the rights of citizens to nurture their democratic values. The public affair program Backlight of VPRO TV (Netherlands) aired an excellent analysis of the stakes of ISDS last October -- the title "Might is Right" gives a good idea of the overwhelming weight of these fine-print clauses which can effectively negate the right of duly elected officials to act in the best interest of their citizens. Lone Pine turned the system of justice into a system of "legal and financial terrorism" wherein a foreign investor can blackmail a duly elected government. The starting point of this 50-minute analysis is the $250-million lawsuit filed by Lone Pine Resources. This company had a gas claim under the bed of the St. Lawrence River between Montreal and Quebec City. In June 2011, the government of the province of Quebec forbade drilling and fracturing under the waters of this vital waterway. In retaliation, Lone Pine sued not only for the loss of potential revenue (in case it should have found a substantial deposit of gas), but also to effectively punish the government because it acted to protect the drinking water of its citizens and the fisheries of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Advertisement In effect, Lone Pine turned the system of justice into a system of "legal and financial terrorism" wherein a foreign investor can blackmail a duly elected government which wants to protect the health, safety and economic welfare of its citizens. When Canada, Mexico and the United States signed these ISDS clauses, they signed away a good part of their sovereignty. President Obama rejected Keystone XL because he was convinced it was not "in the best interest" of his country. With many options possible, his administration chose one course of action for the good of the nation. Future historians will decide if he made the right decision. As in any public policy made for the common good, some people are happy with this decision, others are not. Such are the political realities of a free and democratic country. Unhappy with this decision, TransCanada Pipelines chose to directly challenge the sovereignty of the government of the United States with this $15-billion lawsuit. Presently, as an alternate to Keystone XL to the south, TransCanada would bring Alberta tar sands oil to the Atlantic seaboard with the 4,600-kilometre Energy East pipeline which is expected to cost $16 billion. If successful, this lawsuit would mean that the taxpayers in the USA would pay 94 per cent of the cost of the Energy East pipeline! This is basically "taxation without representation," something that George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and the founders of the United States of America would find totally unacceptable. These ISDS clauses, the fine print found in trade deals such as NAFTA, the TransPacific partnership and the trade agreement project with the European Union, seriously undermine the basic principle that democracy is "government of the people, by the people and for the people." In democracies such as Canada or the USA, foreign investors such as TransCanada Pipelines or Lone Pine Resources should not hold the duly elected governments as hostage to their greed! Advertisement Follow HuffPost Canada Blogs on Facebook MORE ON HUFFPOST: KeithBishop From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. While on Kenya's south coast last week, I got a preview of the eventual Brexit vote when a couple blonde British ladies began ranting about immigrants. They took offence when I pointed out their views were kinda racist. Polish people are white, they argued, and while they had a semantic point I'm not convinced they would've known what xenophobic meant if I'd used the more accurate term. To wit, they also didn't take kindly to my pointing out the irony of a Brit blasting unwanted immigration WHILE IN KENYA, a former colony that only received independence from the U.K. in 1963. Advertisement So I wasn't that surprised about the rise in anti-immigrant hate crimes in the wake of the vote. The Leave movement always seemed fuelled by fears of refugees from the Middle East and Africa, economic migrants from eastern Europe and, especially, Turkey's eventual inclusion in the EU. Then there's Trump, whose entire presidential candidacy is about weaponizing anti-immigrant sentiment via his promised Mexican wall and ban on Muslims. "The politics that scapegoats others, the immigrant, the refugee, someone who seems different than us, we have to call what this mentality is: a threat to the values that we profess," President Barack Obama told our Parliament this week. "We have to stand up to the slander and the hate." Trudeau amplified the sentiment, adding "the North American idea that diversity is strength is our greatest gift to the world. No matter where you are from, nor the faith you profess, nor the colour of your skin, nor whom you love, you belong here. This is home." Advertisement Indeed, it is. Toronto, my adopted hometown, was recently declared the world's most diverse city by the BBC with 51 per cent of residents born outside of Canada and 230 different nationalities represented. Here's something to think about this Canada Day: everyone in this colonized land that is not First Nations or Inuit is an immigrant. My neighbourhood is full of Portuguese, Nepalis, Vietnamese, Jews, Tibetans, Ethiopians, Angolans, Italians and pretty much everyone else. It feels like the future here. Some of Canada is still living in the past, of course. I read the comments here on HuffPost -- which can rend hearts, especially on otherwise uplifting refugee stories -- and I recall the Conservative attempts to use Islamophobia as a campaign tactic in the last election and during their previous decade in power. Anti-immigrant xenophobia is usually tied to nationalism, and nationalism tends to spike during independence celebrations. So here's something to think about this Canada Day: everyone in this colonized land that is not First Nations or Inuit is an immigrant. Advertisement I'm fourth generation myself. Three of my four grandparents were born here, and the other was born in Paris before setting off on a steam ship as a toddler, but my great-grandparents all immigrated from Russia and the Ukraine after their villages were burned to the ground in anti-Semitic pogroms. My wife's relatives immigrated to North America from Denmark and Scotland. Every single other citizen that is not indigenous immigrated here, too, be it from Europe, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, South America or wherever else. In fact, 7.2 million Canadians, 22 per cent of the population, were born outside Canada and 5.7 million, or 17.4 per cent, were born here but have at least one parent born outside Canada. We are a nation of immigrants. Past racist policies aside -- Pierre Trudeau only removed racial categories from the Immigration Act in 1976 -- we now take people in from around the world to help them make better lives and they, in turn, help make this one of the best nations on the planet to live. To paraphrase Trump in a way that he'd hate, immigration is how we have made our country great, and that is what we should be celebrating this Canada Day. Advertisement Follow HuffPost Canada Blogs on Facebook MORE ON HUFFPOST: weerapatkiatdumrong via Getty Images Palms with a tree growing from pile of coins / hands holding a tree growing on coins / csr green business / business ethics / good governance Stories and studies about millennials are everywhere these days, many focused on what business leaders need to do to keep them happy at work. According to this recent story in the Harvard Business Review, just 28.9 per cent of millennials say they are engaged at work, and for 60 per cent, a sense of purpose is part of the reason they choose where to work. If companies want to keep their millennial employees, they need to get creative. And it's going to take far more than flexible work options, ping pong tables and craft beer happy hour. It's been recognized that millennials hunger for meaning and purpose in work and want to make a difference in the world. So businesses need to find solutions to engaging their millennial talent, and one very powerful way to do that is through social enterprise campaigns. Advertisement Social enterprise campaigns are the most promising new trend in philanthropy, according to New Philanthropy: Building Lasting Change, a new report from BNP Paribas Wealth Management. This kind of "collaborative philanthropy" has big, positive implications for both businesses and employees, not only in retaining millennial talent but also in creating value and impact for everyone involved. By incorporating social giving into the bones of a business, everyone gets involved and emotionally invested. It can be a transformative process that shakes things up, injects passion and purpose into the workplace and transforms our understanding of how corporate social responsibility can look in a small business context. It takes businesses out of their world of spreadsheets and client lists and cash flow and into the bigger picture of how money can be used for social good. Here's a recent example: Allan Financial, a small Vancouver insurance company, wanted to do things differently and engage their millennial employees and give back in a way that was meaningful. So to achieve that challenging trifecta of needs, they partnered with Kiva, a San Francisco-based, micro-finance crowd-funding platform that loans money to low-income entrepreneurs in over 80 countries. This wasn't a philanthropy play, or a typical donation. It was a micro-loan initiative to support businesses that needed the capital to launch and grow. Over three years, Allan Financial raised a whopping $400,000, often in $25 increments, for 1,200 strangers in 33 different countries. And their "donation" was repaid in full within 12 months. This meant the company was able to send funds out into the world again to help someone else, a boomerang of philanthropy. It was incredibly innovative and impactful, especially for a company with just nine employees. Advertisement But what's remarkable is not just the numbers, it's the realization that social giving doesn't have to be a donation. If it's done right, it can boost the bottom line for both giver and receiver. For Allan Financial, the campaign didn't just inspire and motivate its millennial employees, it brought in new clients, drawn to their new reputation for financial innovation. For another example of this new kind of philanthropy, look at developers and home builders who have partnered with World Housing. They donate a certain amount from the sale of each condo or house to World Housing to fund the building of homes in landfill communities in the developing world. This one-on-one gifting model, inspired by the success of Tom's Shoes, appeals and engages both those who work for the developers as well as homebuyers because it is a meaningful and innovative charitable partnership. It's collaborative philanthropy. Those involved with World Housing can follow the stories of those on the receiving end of the charity and the impact it has on their lives. They get first-hand accounts of how a family's life is changed by being given a free, safe, permanent house. Similarly, those involved with Allan Financial's Kiva campaign got first-hand accounts of how loans helped businesses -- like an empanada cart in Bogota or a shop in Nairobi -- succeed. So many companies take the easy route, and simply donate money in a routine annual drive, asking employees to chip in. But rarely does that model offer any value or impact on either side. It's the same thing year after year, directing a certain amount of money to a charity to get a tax receipt. It's unremarkable because it's not personal. These kinds of social enterprise campaigns are on the rise because they are remarkable and personal. Millennials expect philanthropy to be a built-in part of any successful business model. They believe it's an essential corporate responsibility to give back in a way that is meaningful and different. Advertisement So how do you create an impactful social enterprise campaign for your business? Certainly not by blindly giving to a cause. The most important lesson I learned during the Kiva campaign was that partnering with an innovative organization helped make the company more interesting and compelling, particularly for tech-savvy millennials who are looking to be part of an organization that does more just business as usual. IrinaBraga via Getty Images Businessman in blue suit adjusting his tie As someone who speaks 16 languages and has had a successful business career, language learners often ask me: if I learn another language, what can I do with it? What is the relationship between languages and work or a career? The biggest benefit of speaking languages I've seen in my career is that it increased the opportunities that came my way. You do have to have other things working for you too, of course. You have to have other skills, like knowledge of a specific sector or market, the ability to do business and the ability to be a reliable, energetic person in any number of fields. Advertisement In my own case, there's no question that leaving Montreal as an Anglophone, studying in France for three years then writing my Canadian Diplomatic or Foreign Service Exam in French helped me be selected into the Canadian Diplomatic Service. So here's a profession where languages count. They want people who are fluent, at the very least, in the two official languages of Canada. Writing the Foreign Service Exam in French as an Anglophone probably put me in a select group, so I had a better chance of being selected. When I was in Ottawa in my year-end training with the Trade Commissioner Service, I heard that the government was preparing to send someone to learn Chinese for a position in Hong Kong. I wanted to be selected for the role, so I started taking Chinese lessons on my own. My aim was to go to the director of personnel and say: I hear you want to send someone to learn Chinese because Canada is about to recognize the People's Republic of China. I've already started; I just want you to know that. I wrote the English Foreign Service exam after a year of study from 1968 to 1969, and then worked in Hong Kong and China promoting Canada's trade interests and helping Canadian business people. I first visited Beijing in October of 1970. I am glad I did. It was a different place than now. I was subsequently posted to Japan, where I picked up Japanese quite quickly. I made a lot of contacts in the forest product sector while working at the Embassy in Tokyo, so when a Canadian company needed someone to set up their representative subsidiary, I was given the job. Obviously, my knowledge of Japanese enabled me to communicate at various levels in the Japanese lumber trade sector, and not just those trading company people who spoke English, but a wide variety of people. Advertisement The next major language learning spurt for me was 1987. I had been hired by a company that did business in Europe and I so I decided to learn German. I spent a month scouring the secondhand book stores in Vancouver finding books that had text and vocabulary lists for each chapter because I just didn't want to look every word up in the dictionary. There were no online dictionaries, so I found a whole pile of excellent books and audio cassettes for learning German and did a lot of listening and reading. Well, it turned out that in the 1990s I did a fair amount of business in Germany. We were selling wood from Canada into Germany and so I had visitors from Germany and I traveled in the country. Once you got past the main lumber agents, a lot of the consumers, wood processors and different customers for our products were much more comfortable speaking German than speaking English. I think it helped me do business there. Thereafter, we started doing business in Sweden, which became a big supplying country for us, and so I again started learning Swedish. I had some background in the language because I was born there and lived there for five years. I had forgotten Swedish, but then I spent a summer there as a 16-year-old and decided I'm really going to learn this language. Again, I got lots of audio books and textbooks. I ended up doing a fair amount of business in Sweden, and I think I had better relations and developed a better relationship of trust with my suppliers because I spoke Swedish. When we had meetings and they wanted me to explain the Japanese market to them in front of their production people, the fact that I was able to explain what the customers' requirements were, the market and how it was structured in Swedish definitely helped. When I set up my own company in Vancouver, we did some business in Spain in the early days. I was able to contact people via the phone and had some Spanish customers come through, so being able to speak Spanish certainly helped. We have a very good customer in France with whom I speak French exclusively. My business, once I set it up, was primarily marketing to Japan, so the biggest payback was my Japanese language skills, which helped me develop a market position there. Advertisement Knowing more languages increases the number of opportunities that are going to come your way. It increases your opportunity to connect with people and understand them better. You never know which languages are going to come in handy and when. Rick Madonik via Getty Images MISSISSAUGA - JUNE 28 - Dozens gathered at Mississauga Civic Centre to urge the Canadian government to recognize human rights violations and speak out against the lack of due process taking place in Egypt and demand the release of Khaled Al-Qazzaz and Mahamed Fahmy. The rally took place on June 28, 2014. (Rick Madonik/Toronto Star via Getty Images) Protecting the rights of children is an essential priority in the various international human rights agreements and treaties to which Canada has agreed to be bound. This commitment to international legal rights of children and of those who care for them should prompt the Government of Canada to urgently ensure that the Egyptian state lifts its travel ban on the family of Khaled Al-Qazzaz, which includes his wife Sarah Attia, as well as his four young children: Abdulrahman (10 years of age), Amena (8), Fatema (5), and Tahrir (3). Khaled is a Canadian permanent resident with a long history of activism and philanthropy in Canada, and the rest of the Al-Qazzaz family is comprised of Canadian citizens. The Egyptian regime is barring the Al-Qazzaz family from returning to their home in Canada, and has seized a significant amount of their assets, including the family business. The case has drawn lots of international criticism, and it's not hard to see why, given that it involves the violation of several United Nations instruments. Advertisement The Egyptian government must allow the entire Al-Qazzaz family to travel outside of its borders, which includes both parents, but it is restricting their ability to do so. As Human Rights Watch reported, the Egyptian regime's "opaque travel restriction policy violates both the Egyptian constitution and international human rights law." The government of Canada has a role and responsibility to protect its own citizens and their families. The Al-Qazzaz family needs support that only the Government of Canada can offer, which is consistent with Canada's long-standing obligations to international human rights law, including the rights of children. First of all, Canada is a party to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which stresses the state priority of the rights and well-being of children, and that state parties should "take all appropriate legislative and administrative measures" to implement children's rights, which includes respect of the rights and duties of the parents. In fact, the Convention specifies that: "No child shall be subjected to arbitrary or unlawful interference with his or her...family"; and that "a child shall not be separated from his or her parents against their will." The Egyptian government must allow the entire Al-Qazzaz family to travel outside of its borders, which includes both parents, but it is restricting their ability to do so. Canada has also ratified the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, which provides that both mother and father have "common responsibility" in the "upbringing and development of their children," whose interests are of "primordial consideration" in all cases. Egypt's President Abdel Fatteh el- Sisi's regime took Khaled Al Qazzaz out of the lives of his wife and children when they detained him (without charge) for over 500 days. He endured solitary confinement and devastating torture while his children, none of whom were above the age of 10, lived without their father in their lives. Advertisement During almost two years of imprisonment, the children were only permitted one single visit to see him in Egypt's notorious maximum security Torah prison. Sarah Attia was tasked with raising her children as a single mother while trying to sustain an internationally-recognized campaign to free her husband, who was released from prison only last year. Furthermore, Canada is also a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, both of which include provisions that state parties ensure the rights of families, whose children should be accorded the necessary protections and assistance. These protections reflect the commitment in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that formally recognizes that: "The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the State." These international instruments provide ample justification for the Government of Canada to act in this time-sensitive and urgent case. Yet, our government is only recommending that Sarah and her children return without their husband and father and abandon him, thereby leaving him even more vulnerable to the great risk of even further torture and imprisonment. Egypt's travel restrictions are being used to silence and disappear pro-democracy activists, academics, journalists, students, judges, and human rights activists, like Khaled Al-Qazzaz. It is both unfortunate and heart-breaking that the Canadian government has been pressing Sarah Attia and the children to return to Canada and leave her husband and father of her children, Khaled Al Qazzaz, behind. Is it not enough that their children have already been subjected to this kind of traumatic separation once before? The children need their father and they need to return to Canada together. Our international human rights commitments inform a different solution. Abdulrahman, Amena, Fatema, and Tahrir are entitled to live in Canada with both their parents. Consequently, the Government of Canada must urge the Egyptian government to lift their arbitrary travel ban and advocate for this necessary transfer of the whole family without delay. Advertisement These are rights that reflect universal principles, but Egypt's president recently said to an official American delegation that his country's human rights record shouldn't be judged through a "Western" lens. Britain and France have both just issued criticisms of Egypt's civil liberties record, and President Sisi's remarks are self-serving for his own government, attempting to deflect international disapproval. The Canadian government must not let this unproductive obfuscation of a clear-cut matter of human rights further impede its willingness and efforts to act. In light of these extraordinary facts, along with Canada's commitment to universal human rights, urgent action is required to redress the Al-Qazzaz family's situation. The Trudeau administration must respond in a manner that, above all, secures and protects the rights of Khaled and Sarah's four young children, who are entitled to the care of both of their parents in Canada. Follow HuffPost Canada Blogs on Facebook ALSO ON HUFFPOST: The five things you need to know on Thursday June 30, 2016 1) MAYBE ITS MAY, BELIEVE It was Lenin* who said There are decades where nothing happens; and there are weeks where decades happen. Thats what these past seven days certainly feel like, as the aftershocks of the Brexit vote continue to disorientate all our political parties. And today, we have at least five, possibly six, leadership bids for the Government and Opposition. Advertisement First up is Theresa May. Serious, dogged, principled, a calming influence at a time of anxiety, thats the pitch from her team as she launches into what could be a very dirty fight with Boris Johnson. Expect a lot of talk about her being the Angela Merkel for the UK. Mays piece in the Times is a direct hit on Boriss weak underbelly: his perceived inconsistency, shambolic planning and Etonian background. Some need to be told that what the government does isn't a game, it's a serious business that has real consequences for people's lives. She also proposes a Brexit Department led by a Leaver. Her six year stint as Home Secretary, as well as her reluctant Remainer stance in the referendum (sharing a loyalty to David Cameron that many grassroots Tories share), are seen as her strongest cards. But Mays team also point to her record on social justice issues such as the Stephen Lawrence case, Hillsborough, Gary McKinnon and modern slavery and FGM. Part of the early task was just to get enough MPs to believe that May could actually beat Boris in a run-off among the rank and file members. Todays YouGov/Times poll gives her a substantial lead among party members, with the Home Secretary on 55% to Johnsons 38%. One ally of Boris who knows the rubber chicken circuit better than most tells me that this fits with their experience up and down the country. Which is why Michael Goves support is crucial to cancelling it out (see below). Advertisement Another state-educated Tory, Stephen Crabb, had a successful launch yesterday, with an impressive speech and pitch as the John Major candidate. He too had a pop at Boriss preference to wait for the rugby ball to pop out of the scrum rather than grab it with both hands. Crabb also had a real new generation feel with key 2010 and 2015 backers. Note that Liam Fox is set to launch too, but amid rumours that he is only doing so after Mays refusal to promise him the Foreign Secretary job he wanted (one ally tells me Theresa never does deals and never will). Former Fox aides like James Heappey went with Crabb yesterday, believing the ex Defence Sec was not running. Fox will be the only traditional candidate for the Tory Right. But many of those - like David Davis - have opted for Boris already. Social liberals plus Thatcherites - thats the Bozza coalition May may find most difficult to beat. * h/t to the lovely Pippa Crerar for that Lenin quote 2) BOGO OF BOGOF? Buy one, get one free, or BOGOF as they say in the supermarket trade. Thats the pitch to Tory members of the joint Boris-Gove ticket we expect to see today. Gove is incredibly popular among many of the Conservative Associations that will be the real battleground in this election. He brings a weight and a radical zeal that is seen as the perfect foil to Boriss showmanship. Yet is it the Bo-Go or Go-Bo show? Sarah Vines email leak to SkyNews yesterday laid bare the Gove households worries about Boriss tendency to cut corners or simply drop the ball on key issues like immigration or a concert post-Brexit plan. I understand that its not just Gove who had to extract real commitments from Boris after this weeks tired and hurried Telegraph column. Senior figures wanted pledges on immigration and other key policies before giving support. Crispin Blunts speechlessness on Newsnight last night, when asked what Boris meant by his claim nothing much would change for Brits in Europe, was a sight to behold. Advertisement Boriss launch is later in the morning, so he gets a chance to rebut Mays attack lines. He was due to be introduced by Amber Rudd (although Harry Cole got wind of it and published it in yesterdays Sun, so maybe the surprise has gone). That would underline just how much of a broad coalition he has, given she was attacking him so personally in the EU TV debates. As for that Times poll, Team Bozza text to accentuate the positives and eliminate the negatives. May trails him in three key areas: on who would best know how to win an election (48/21), who is most in touch with ordinary voters concerns (26/18) and best media performer (62/13). They tie on the economy. Grant Shapps, former party chairman, blogs for us today on the 4 Things that need to happen now to make Brexit work. Chief among them is slashing corporation tax. Thats the kind of bread and butter stuff Boris will need in coming weeks. 3) ANGELAS SASHES Its perfectly possible that come this autumn, the UKs two main political parties will be led by women, adding to the fact that all three parties in Scotland are also headed by female politicians. Its taken more than a century, but those sash-wearing, Edwardian Suffragettes would be proud. When Angela Eagle launches this afternoon, she knows she has a mountain to climb. But this Mrs Merkel thing is catching. One ally told me that she is Our Angela, our Angela Merkel of the Left. A trained economist, a serious politician for serious times. Advertisement The fact that shes a woman may well help with the partys grass roots, which has long wanted to follow up its all-women shortlists progress with its first ever female leader. But being a woman didnt on its own help Yvette Cooper (who may still run) or Liz Kendall last year. Still, after Tom Watson bottled it, just standing would show she has steel (Where Eagles Dare is the movie choice slogan of her supporters). Other possible contenders are ready to back her as the unity candidate, recognising that only someone from the soft left, and with union support, can possibly win with the selectorate. Yet that selectorate remains a formidable obstacle to toppling Corbyn. Eagle came fourth in the deputy race, Team JC point out. She voted for the Iraq War. Her local party arent happy with her opposing the leader (as revealed by HuffPost on Tuesday). And with more than 13,000 new members joining in the past week, it could get harder still. Anecdotally some of those are joining to kill Corbyn some to keep Corbyn. Either way, it is a logistical nightmare to check if they are all legit. Corbyn has a zen-like calm about all this. Im told hes not a hostage of Seumas Milne and John McDonnell and actually believes deeply that he has a duty not to let down those who elected him in huge numbers. His supporters see him as the Obi Wan Kenobi of the Labour Party, the Jezi mind trick master complete with beard and loyal followers. And fittingly enough young Obi Wan - aka Ewen MacGregor - backed him on Twitter yesterday. McDonnell called for calm yesterday but couldn't help pouring oil on the flames. Last night he said the PLP meeting was "not a meeting to enjoy, it fact it was like a lynch mob without the rope. Yes, a lynch mob. He was speaking at SOAS last night, where another hero's welcome for Corbyn that typified the support he has among many young Labour members. Advertisement But there are straws in the wind. After the rally, Momentums James Schneider went to the Holborn and St Pancras CLP meeting. Its one of the biggest local Labour parties in the country, and voted to reject a motion of confidence in Corbyn, by 44-35. And there could be another challenger too. Owen Smith is also of the soft left, but has no baggage on the Iraq War, and has got the numbers, Im told (51 MPs/MEPs needed). His name was the talk of the Commons bars and terrace last night. Some think its too soon, though, and want him and Lisa Nandy to battle it out after Eagles caretaker stint may end in 2018. Meanwhile, JC today has a speech planned at Shami Chakrabartis publication of her report into anti-semitism and racism in Labour ranks. Labour sources mutter that the former Liberty chief is a close friend of Seumas Milne. She may want to dispel any rumours that had any influence on her role. BECAUSE YOUVE READ THIS FAR Watch this wonderful clip of a Government minister Lord Courtown saying Order - after Labours Lord Foulkes heckles that an EU statement has been cut short - again and again and again. Hypnotic, trippy, mindblowing. 4) SINGAPORE SLIMS Singapores United and Overseas Bank has suspended its loans programme for all London properties in the wake of uncertainties caused by Britain's vote to leave the European Union. It says it wanted to make sure it was cautious about investments in the capital. Advertisement This is just an overreaction, Brexiteers will suggest. Yesterday, the FTSE100 recovered all the losses it had made since June 23, a fact that delighted Outers. Inners pointed out that the FTSE250 was a more accurate verdict and that was still tanking. Indeed, one economist on the Today progs Biz Section predicted that UK GDP growth would be downgraded by 30% this year and up to 70% next year. The Economist Intelligence Unit says financial markets will continue to panic and that we aint seen nothing yet. This process will commence with the triggering of article 50 of the EU treaties. We expect financial market volatility to persist as events unfold and uncertainty over the future of the UKs relationship with the EU will feed into the real economy, it said. Mark Carney (remember him?) will today use a speech to try to calm fears that Britains financial system could experience a heart-attack. Tough call. 5) SEX CRIME Away from the hubbub, the SNP often seem to be the only party with a leader who knows what shes doing. And in Westminster, John Nicolson is proving that his party can still make a historic difference in other ways. Nicolson, who in May topped the annual private members' bill ballot, and has now brought forward his proposed bill - to pardon people with historic convictions for being gay. If successful, his Sexual Offences (Pardons Etc) Bill will make provision for pardoning cautions and convictions for specified sexual offences that have now been abolished. Advertisement Alan Turing had a royal pardon, but this is about ensuring that you dont have to be a codebreaking genius to get true justice. Note the signatories to the bill too: Labours Keir Starmer and Tory Nigel Huddleston as well as SNP MPs. But we cant get away from Brexit, really. The Daily Record reveals that Sturgeon will formally start proceedings for a second Scottish independence referendum as soon as Article 50 is triggered. If youre reading this on the web, sign-up HERE to get the WaughZone delivered to your inbox. During the EU referendum in the UK, disdain for knowledge and expertise was palpable. Conservative MP, Michael Gove, declared that "people in this country have had enough of experts" while Labour MP, Gisela Stuart boasted, "There is only one expert that matters and that's you, the voter." "Anti-intellectualism" has flourished in the UK, Europe and across the pond. The governor of the Bank of England predicted financial crisis, social scientists predicted racial tensions and EU policy pundits predicted a diplomatic own-goal of biblical proportions, but their advice fell on deaf ears. Academics are, by definition, experts in a particular field, but their voices have been virtually absent before and after the Brexit vote. I am a cardiologist, a researcher and a teacher. On any of these three, I am well-placed to advise, maybe even an expert. However, if you need your bathroom tiling, want to know about mathematics or eighteenth century philosophy, then do not come anywhere near me. Everybody has their forte and honest people recognise their shortcomings and ask for help beyond their comfort zone. We now know that our politicians have, across the board, been dishonest about their knowledge and expertise or lack thereof. The post-Brexit analysis has been in free flow since last Friday morning, but the most noteworthy lessons are of inequalities in Britain. London and the rest of the UK. North and South. Rich and poor. EU and non-EU. White and non-white. Whitehall and the real world. But one thread runs through all of these grim divisions and that is education and access to education. A man debated my nationality as a British Indian born in Hull with me on Twitter this week, "If a dog is born in a pig sty is the dog a pig?" The fact remains that lack of education or lack of application of that education is associated with this kind of behaviour. The Leave campaign and the media supporting them deliberately moved the debate away from experts and focused on immigration. Without facts, without expertise and without knowledge, it was possible to appeal to base fears. Mis-information is hard to recognise if you missed your educational opportunities. The politicians who took the debate away from the experts and their warnings, should never again be allowed to exclude academics from that conversation because the country's future is now at risk. Advertisement Educational and socioeconomic status have been linked to health, wealth and development outcomes for several decades in most countries and the body of evidence could fill a library. Yet, as you progress through primary, secondary and tertiary education, the gaps between the "haves" and the "have-nots" have widened in this country under successive governments. The possibilities and opportunities of education have been side-lined by austerity and rising tuition fees. Schools are obsessed with Oxbridge admission rates and universities with publications and grant funding, rather than their impact local and national communities. UK universities rank handsomely in the top 100 institutions and part of their success relies upon a long history of collaboration with international partners, adding an estimated 40 billion to GDP. The international students in London alone make a net contribution of 2.3 billion to the economy. The debate about immigration ignored these aspects. In an interconnected world, we have presented ourselves as an island and we should be under no illusions about the reputational damage. Swift, definitive action is needed to make the many students and staff from the EU and beyond feel welcome so that we can continue to foster one of the most productive academic sectors in the world. The leadership meltdown in Westminster shows we have a malfunctioning democracy. There's no two ways about it. There were only two outcomes listed on the referendum ballot paper. Or did I miss the box marked "Westminster goes berserk"? It's easy to be smug about it and say this was always going to happen, however that's beside the point. It's looking like millions of people are waking up, every day since the results, to discover they're not getting what they voted for. Not yet at least. And if they voted Leave to curb EU immigration or spend our EU subs on the NHS instead, they might never get it, Brexit or not. That's Great British democracy for you. The numbers tell the story: Last week 72.2% of voters made their choice, 51.9% choosing to leave the EU. That's about 37.5% of the electorate. Just over a year ago, 66.1% of voters turned out for the general election, and 36.9% of them got the government they voted for. That's about 24.5% of the electorate. Five years ago, we held a referendum on changing the electoral system to make Westminster more representative of the national vote. 42.2% of electors turned out for that one, and 67.9% of them voted to keep things as they are. That's about 28.6% of the electorate. Advertisement Consider how those numbers explain the current leadership mess: More people supported Brexit than have supported most postwar British Prime Minsters, with few exceptions. There was Clement Atlee in 1950 where turnout was extremely high (83.9%) and Labour took just over 38% of the vote. Churchill's 1951 win was even bigger (over 39%) but in that election over 40% of voters backed Labour. Labour won 1% more of the vote but 8% fewer seats in 1951. In the last general election, the Liberal Democrats received 42% fewer votes than UKIP but won 800% more seats. We accept this as though it's normal. The point here is, unlike our EU neighbours, UK governments are defined by the strange notion that our democracy is best served by a system where more people vote against the winning government than for it. And when you factor in the AV referendum result, more people would rather keep things that way than voted for the winning party in the last 4 general elections. We've only got ourselves to blame. It should hardly be surprising that, when the Great British electorate shows a lot more interest than usual and speaks up, the politicians charged with carrying out the results do something else instead. What they are doing right now is, numerically speaking, astonishing. Here's an example of what I mean: If Theresa May becomes PM, we'll have a leader that was elected in national terms by about 0.1% of the 2015 electorate. That's not a mandate to lead the country, is it? And beyond that, what of the policies that Tory voters backed last time around? Many will be undone by the Brexit. Surely that's grounds for another general election, isn't it? Apparently not. Advertisement It's no better at Labour. As they collapse in a frenzy of backstabbing it is worth noting that 59.5% of the voter turnout backed the man that Labour MPs (who are also members) are trying to remove. That's a man elected by roughly 45% of the party members (excluding affiliates) being challenged by about 0.07% of the membership (no confidence motion MPs). When commentators describe the Brexit result as a protest by people fed-up with political elites, this is what they mean. The arcane nature of British democracy has, over the last 60 years, delivered one electoral minority after another into the corridors of power. It's led to a situation where no matter how many of us vote, we get a result that rewards people who wouldn't win in any other situation where the principle of "we'll do what the majority of people want" applies. So we shouldn't be surprised that when the nation says "Brexit" the politicians hear "Get a bigger office and more perks". I didn't vote to leave the EU, but I'm not going to throw my toys out of the pram because Remain didn't win, or take it as an opportunity to shaft my colleagues and the people who placed their trust in me. Neither would most people, regardless of where they put their cross last Thursday. When the chips are down for most communities, they pull together. But when the chips are down in Westminster, the knives come out. It's that time of year when friends and family go on holiday and social media is flooded with smart phone imagery of travel and adventures. This barrage of holiday snaps is not just limited to those from our loved ones, we're also seeing a whole range of imagery from brands and publications around particular travel themes. As travel imagery has its peak moment, our Creative Research team are exploring the visual trends happening in this space so far this summer. Facebook stats from last year show that there was a 46 per cent spike in Facebook posts tagged with "travel" and video content shared on mobile was 43 per cent higher than in 2014. According to another piece of research from Getchute.com, 3.8 million travel-related photos were posted to Instagram last June alone. As people, we have an unending fascination with the beauty of nature and the spirituality it inspires within us - we call it Wonderlust. We also live in a technological world of connectivity which means we can satisfy our need to share those experiences. An example of a media brand focusing on visual inspiration for travel is - and no surprises here - Conde Nast Traveller magazine, which boasts 136,000 followers on Instagram. The publication's posts typically consist of hidden away locations, beautiful landscapes and scenes that inspire the idea of tranquillity and peacefulness. One of Getty Images' Creative in Focus visual trends for 2016 is 'Silence vs Noise', which reflects the need to breathe and reconnect away from the clutter of everyday life. Conde Nast exemplifies this perfectly through its shared curation. One recent image nicely frames the idyllic scene of a small boat on the ocean by mimicking the feel of a painting; building overlooking the Mediterranean. This is done by the simple use of negative space and scale. The image has attracted lots of engagement, receiving more than 1,000 likes already. Advertisement Visuals are being used by brands to appeal to consumers' desire for escape and relaxation. The 'less-is-more' composition approach has been used by Emirates, which employs a contrast in scale and space featuring single objects, buildings or people, as the focus in its advertising campaign for "Don't let the world pass you by". The effect is simple but powerful, the eye searches the frame and then finds the iconic Sydney Opera House, or in another example Big Ben. Another visual trend we often see in travel imagery is 'Divine Living.' This focuses more on our desire to experience something spiritually uplifting. An example of a brand incorporating this into its latest rebrand is First Choice, launched at the end of last year. First Choice uses colours that are redolent of a faded transparency or nostalgic look, very much like the ones you can dial-in on many photo-app filters. For the record, these colours are very similar to the those named by Pantone as their 'colours of 2016' - 'Rose Quartz' and 'Serenity' - a soft pink and serene blue respectively. One reason why a majority of British voters have just chosen 'Brexit' is the populist campaign successfully mounted by leaders of the 'out' camp. However, the much deeper cause lies in the way pro-E.U. elites in the UK have repeatedly undermined the European political project over the last thirty years. There are two dimensions to this spectacular 'own goal': the failure of these actors to legitimize the E.U. within Britain and, more fundamentally still, the part they have played in the paucity of the project itself. The legitimation failure lies in Britain's pro-E.U. protagonists failing to develop and communicate a positive discourse about the EU other than by simply listing the economic benefits of 'the single market'. Despite what such stakeholders claim, economic 'facts' do not speak for themselves, they have to be given social and political meaning. This is precisely where the vast majority of these actors have failed: at no time have they recognized and made it clear to a wider public that being a member of the E.U. made the UK an integral part of a European-wide political system. On the contrary, a 'them' and 'us' vision of the E.U. has consistently been purveyed, be it by Margaret Thatcher with her 'we want our money back', John Major and the opt-outs obtained at Maastricht, Tony Blair and his 'red lines' over issues ranging from banking to defence, or David Cameron and the so-called deal he brought back 'from Brussels' earlier this year. Throughout, the fictional image of the E.U. as run by a technocratic Commission and federalist continentals has never been assertively countered. On the contrary, Britain's political leaders have consistently failed to promote E.U. policies despite having accepted them, often enthusiastically, in the Council of Ministers. Little wonder then, that during the referendum campaign the political project of European integration was so rarely explained and defended. Moreover, this failure to legitimate what they were ostensibly fighting for meant that Remain's leading proponents also failed to make clear the regime-changing consequences of a vote for Brexit. As has become patently obvious over the last few days, leaving the EU is not just a modification of Britain's international relations; it radically changes the way Britain itself has been governed for nearly half a century. Advertisement More fundamentally still, however, this reduction of debate over Britain's E.U. membership to arguments of 'economic necessity' raises the deeper question of the poverty of the project for Europe that has been foisted upon its peoples by virtually all its leading actors since the early 1990s. By failing to consistently distinguish European integration from simply adapting to a so-called 'globalized economy', the underlying project of not just Britain's elites but those of Europe as a whole, has simply been to extend the single market concept through ensuring that a restricted vision of 'economic freedom' trumps all else. Consequently, few if any arguments for EU policies based on other values have been made. For instance, a case could have been made for positive trade discrimination against countries like China who laugh at democracy, abuse human rights and practice unfair economic competition. However, such a policy has not even been considered because of kneejerk kow-towing to the W.T.O.. Similarly, having abandoned the principle of economic security at home, the E.U. itself no longer possesses a competition policy which consistently fights oligopolistic domination of markets by massive multinationals. Meanwhile, having abandoned any notion of acting differently from the U.S., and therefore without a clear set of first principles of its own, E.U. policy in the Middle-East has been muddled in its reasoning and just as muddled in its implementation. The list of E.U. policy debacles goes on, but what is important to retain here is that leading British actors, together with their continental counterparts, have been responsible for them. In so doing, these supposedly pro-Euro elites have not only shot themselves in the foot, they have now left Britons who are genuinely open to values other than economic freedom with virtually no leg to stand on. Ever since last Friday, there has been a palpable sense of division on our streets. I have felt it - even in London, a multicultural metropolis. In fact, even closer to home, a Portuguese friend of mine told me that he was scared to return to Leicester from his holiday, a city that is famed for its successful ethnic integration, in fear of what might happen to him - will people hurt him? Will they abuse him? Will they try to make him leave? Since the vote last Thursday, hate crimes in the UK have risen by 200%, or in other words, they have trebled. There have been many high-profile incidents in the last few days up and down the length of the country. In Manchester, a BAME man was chastised with vitriol by a young white man, as he rode on the tram. In London, a hate group sang boastfully of "getting rid of the Poles and the gays". And in Huntingdon, leaflets have been posted telling 'Polish vermin to go home'. There is no doubt that Brexit has sparked a revival in intolerance. There have been innumerable accounts of migrants, refugees and even British people detailing xenophobic abuse they have received in the streets. A campaign calling on members of the public to wear a safety pin if they're friendly to non-white British people is gaining popularity. Yet, whilst this is undoubtedly well-intentioned, it seems to do little else than sate the guilt of the majority. Advertisement What struck me most about this campaign was that it was started by an immigrant, one who freely admits herself that she faces no xenophobic abuse. And that's because she's a white immigrant who speaks English as her first language. Therefore, by rights, she is exempt from the work-shy job-stealing social leper stereotypes that most immigrants face. Her experiences are consistent with several opinion polls, which show the British public to have a fundamental disagreement with freedom of movement across the European Union, but no issue with the idea of the same agreement existing between the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. It is clear that Leave voters are not to blame for this scourge of hatred simply because they chose to back the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union - however, it is an unfortunate side-effect of their democratic choice. The 51.1% have inadvertently mobilised a noisy minority of racists, who have been conditioned in to hating migrants after years of slanderous headlines in The Daily Express and The Daily Mail. What is so disgraceful is that the politicians who led the Brexit cause are missing in action when addressing this social ugliness. The Vote Leave campaign stoked people's fears of immigration from Turkey for months, even intimating that them joining the EU would lead to ISIS militants being just a border away from Britain. On top of this, Leave.EU launched a poster demonising refugees in propaganda that shares a striking likeness to that of Nazi Germany's. Nigel Farage has spent years making racist gaffe after racist gaffe about immigrants, telling us he's uncomfortable hearing foreign languages on trains, saying Romanians are unwanted neighbours and that any settlers with HIV ought to be turned away by doctors. Is there any wonder when the leaders of the victorious campaign are saying and condoning things like this that racists and xenophobes take it as an endorsement of their own views? Advertisement It is time for the decent senior figures who supported Brexit to tame this unwieldy filth before it becomes commonplace again. As so many have succinctly and correctly articulated before me, the problem is not that 17 million Leave voters are racist, it's that racists think that 17 million Leave voters agree with them. Without question, the nation has to unite together to defeat this grotesqueness. Remain voters and Leave voters owe it to wider society to challenge, document and report any incidents of xenophobic hatred. This simply cannot continue. Prior to the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on 26 June, it was announced that Indonesia is to execute 16 prisoners after the Holy Month of Ramadan. No names have been announced, although several foreign nationals are feared to be amongst those who will be executed, putting Indonesia back under the international spotlight. In 2014, 14 drugs convicts were executed, amongst them were 12 foreign nationals. Some of them were Brazilian Rodrigo Gularte, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder and Australians Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran who led the Bali Nine drug smugglers, putting the diplomatic tie under strain. Frenchman Serge Atlaoui was removed from the list at the last minute upon government's appeal - French President Francois Hollande warned Indonesia on diplomatic consequences. As of December 2014, there were a total of 136 people on death row, amongst them 64 drug convicts. Currently, those on death row including a British grandmother Lindsay Sandiford, who was sentenced to death in Bali in 2013. Indonesia's state philosophy of Pancasila calls for just and civilised humanity and social justice. The country guarantees the right to life in Article 28A of its 1945 Constitution and Article 9 of the Human Rights Act 1999. Indonesia is also a party to ICCPR. While Article 6 of the ICCPR does prohibit capital punishment in most serious cases, the UN Human Rights Committee, who is responsible for the authoritative interpretation of the Covenant, has emphasised that drug-related offences has failed to meet such cases. The UN Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, Manfred Nowak, in the report number A/HRC/10/44 stated that that death penalty on drug offenders amounts to a violation of the right to life and human dignity. However, the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Indonesia, in its Decision No. 2-3/PUU-V/2007 interpreted that drug offences are extraordinary, horrendous crimes and thus capital punishment is needed as an effective and maximum punishment. They also argue that the application of human rights in the 1945 Constitution can be limited. The court's problematic reasoning and decision have consequently led the country to retain its draconian law for drug offences. However, there has been no credible evidence demonstrating that capital punishment deters drug trafficking. Worse still, death sentences are often made after unfair legal processes and trials, putting people at risk of serious human rights violations. Advertisement The drug problem in Indonesia is not just a public health matter. It relates to politics and various lawmakers are in support of capital punishment. President Joko Widodo declared war on drugs after he was sworn in in 2014. In an interview with Al Jazeera, he stated the country is in a narcotics emergency, citing that 50 young Indonesians die from drugs every day. He stated he will never grant clemency for drug convicts. President Joko Widodo's tough stance on drugs policy, unmoved by foreign diplomacy, puts him as a defender of Indonesian sovereignty in the eyes of many citizens. However, the validity of statistics claimed by Jokowi is criticised by academics and experts for its questionable data and statistics. Most importantly, the government's policies on drugs contribute to undermining the right to health rather than protecting public health. In March 2016, a team of medical experts consist of The Johns Hopkins-Lancet Commission on Drug Policy and Health published a report urging an end of repressive drug policies since the 'war on drugs' has harmed human rights, development and public health. Findings show that criminalisation hinders people from seeking help for the fear of being arrested and incarcerated. When people do not seek treatment, it poses the risk of rising numbers of communicable diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis C. It is also worsened by the reality of Indonesia's overcrowded prisons and limited health services, thus putting drug offenders at risk of disease transmission from unsafe injection and sex practices that will eventually lead to higher risks of disease transmission amongst the public. In Indonesia, research shows that 93% shared injection equipment in prison, where 78.6% share the needles with over 10 prisoners. Advertisement It is said that the forthcoming executions will cost approximately IDR 3.6 billion (184,585). As researched by Weisbuch, the huge cost of capital punishment process is a grave burden and thus it should be allocated for better use in other areas of government such as investment in treatment, cost-effective health facilities, and evidence-based harm reduction programmes. Last year, Minister of Social Affairs Khofifah Indar Parawansa stated that rehabilitation centres met only 8 per cent of the national need. Many patients are referred to the capital city and some treatment programmes available sometimes include options that are not scientifically grounded. It is incredibly important to help those who suffer from drug dependence rather than punishing them - punitive measures risks further stigmatisation and putting the patients in worse socio-economic conditions. Scientific approaches to law and regulations are essential in drug policy-making. Failure in providing health treatment and services for people with drug dependence is undermining their human right to health. 'Notes on Blindness,' Peter Middleton and James Spinnet's innovative, thought provoking and sensitive debut feature immerses the viewer in the experience of going blind as it follows John Hull, the remarkable academic, theologian and writer who lost his sight in his mid-40s and kept a diary over 3 years reflecting on how he dealt with this life changing condition. Director: Peter Middleton, James Spinnet. Documentary. UK 2016 (U) 90 mins. **** Premiered at this year's Sundance Film Festival to critical acclaim, 'Notes on Blindness,' Peter Middleton and James Spinnet's innovative, thought provoking and sensitive feature debut pays tribute to the remarkable academic, theologian and writer John Hull who lost his sight in his mid-40s and immerses the viewer in the life changing experience of going blind. Advertisement Just after the birth of his first son, after years of steady deterioration, writer and academic John Hull lost his sight in 1983. How do you cope with such a devastating and life changing condition? Other senses may become heightened but the visible world has gone. 'I need serious books, recorded sensibly' was his response. Friends and colleagues filled that gap but John Hull ventured further keeping a diary on audiocassette over 3 years with over 16 hours of material reflecting on his personal, philosophical and religious struggles and conversations with his wife Marilyn and family to try to make sense of his blindness as images of the past began to disappear. It's a remarkable diary and Peter Middleton and James Spinnet's innovative approach offers a fascinating insight into his world with scenes from John's life recreated with actors Dan Renton Skinner and Simone Kirby miming the actual audio recordings, brilliantly supported by Joakim Sundstrom's terrific sound score. The diaries titled 'Touching the Rock' were published to critical acclaim in 1991 and described by the author and neurologist Oliver Sachs as 'a masterpiece...The most precise, deep and beautiful account of blindness I have ever read.' A philosophical approach prevailed, and John Hull accepted blindness as a gift from God 'not a gift that I want, but a gift nonetheless.' Advertisement 'To gain our full humanity, blind people and sighted people each need one another.' John Hull. Peter Middleton and James Spinney decided to use innovative Virtual Reality technology to create a unique experience to complement their film. Alongside the premiere of the feature film, Sundance 2016 saw the unveiling of Notes On Blindness : Into Darkness, an immersive VR project based on John's sensory and psychological experience of blindness. The interactive experience complements the story world of the feature film and forms an integral part of the outreach programme. Each scene addresses a memory, a moment and a specific location from John's audio diary, using binaural audio and real time 3D animations to create a fully immersive experience in a 'world beyond sight'. In April the project won the prestigious Storyscapes Award at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival. The VR will be touring in cinemas across the UK and Ireland from 24th June and will be available for download for Samsung Gear on 30th June. Advertisement Released 1st July A week ago, I was nervous about the prospects for Brexit; opinion poll data was fluctuating wildly, and I could have seen the result going either way. Worse still, conspiracy theories involving MI5 and the idea that we needed to bring pens to the polling station were being aired from some fellow Leave supporters, which was eerily reminiscent of the ludicrous reaction to the Scottish referendum among parts of the SNP for which they were rightly derided. But I never wavered in my own support for Brexit; not only did I know that these ideas weren't representative of the wider campaign and the many Brexiteers that I knew, but I simply wasn't voting to endorse those ideas any more than I was voting to endorse Farage's infamous billboard. I was simply voting to leave the EU. In the end, though I was surprised that Leave won the referendum, the same can't be said for any of the effects thereof - least of all the demonisation of Leave voters, and calls to ignore the result which have proliferated since. To be clear from the outset, I and many other Leave voters I know are appalled by the racist incidents that have been reported since the result was announced, such as calls for immigrants to leave the country, and the racial abuse reported by the BBC's Sima Kotecha. It is certainly up to the Leave campaign and Leave voters to make clear that this was not what the referendum was fought on (as Toby Young has set a good example in doing), and that a vote to leave the EU was not a vote for racism - lest the voices of 17.4 million people become hijacked or exploited by the agenda of a far-right fringe which I'm optimistic will soon be back in the corner where it belongs. From Llanelli to London, ordinary people are making clear that such racism is not what Britain is about - and it would be sanctimonious in the extreme to simply presume that only Remain voters (or Leave voters for that matter) are doing so. Advertisement Yet however loud our condemnations, it's likely that there will simply be no satisfying many vocal Remainers, who had already decreed that Leave voters were voting as they were because they were racists (Bob Geldof's abuse of the flotilla of fishermen voting Leave comes to mind. Never mind, then, that the issue most cited by Leave voters was democracy rather than immigration, or indeed that people can be concerned about the effects of free movement without being racists; we're actually a country of millions of uneducated racists. But certainly never mind that sizeable minorities of the British Asian, Black and Muslim population also voted Leave - and indeed that, during several debates prior to the referendum, some of the strongest pro-Leave arguments came from non-white audience members. However, we must also ask whether this would have been any different had the referendum gone the other way. Not only had the EDL protest (of only c.30 people) in Birmingham been planned months in advance, but it's likely that the very same people hurling abuse at immigrants on account of a Leave vote would have done exactly the same under a Remain one. Nor should we forget the compelling left/left-libertarian case that the EU's own free movement policies are themselves racist, especially against citizens from Commonwealth countries (or perhaps we should, if Alex Salmond's sneering (at 9:06 - 9:55) at that exact point by Daniel Hannan in the Oxford Union is anything to go by). But the branding of Leave campaigners as racists is surprisingly far from the most vitriolic aspect of the reaction to the result: that honour belongs, if it can even be awarded so bad has much of the reaction been, to the rage against the elderly - who were far more likely than young people to both go out and vote at all, and to vote Leave. Even before the referendum, we had calls for older people to be denied the vote in case they voted the "wrong" way, an assertion which has been doubled down on afterwards. The idea that one shouldn't give up a seat to a frail elderly person in case they voted Leave was retweeted 13,000 times, and at least one placard at a pro-EU demonstration called on elderly people to die. The selfish rhetoric of the elderly "stealing [young people's] futures" that has become dishearteningly common after the vote would be, if directed at any other group, derided as bigotry. Not only do young Remainers making this claim have no monopoly over the future (it is not "theirs" to be stolen), but the very people that are being derided have often worked all their lives to build the country we've seen today, and in some cases even fought the Nazis to ensure we had a future at all. Advertisement Yet the reaction which has been most widespread, and also most disturbing, has been the naked rage against the fact the vote went the "wrong" way. Already we've seen calls for a second referendum, a #wearethe48 hashtag, and indeed for Parliament to ignore the vote as "advisory" (which explains, of course, why millions of pounds of taxpayers' money was spent promoting one side of the campaign) - and indeed for a second referendum on Scottish independence failing that. I'm not going to go into the arguments against all three of these propositions (which are already well-made), but what surprised me about this reaction most was actually that anyone else was surprised. Since the 2015 General Election, where sections of the Left rioted at the decision of the wider public to reject their preferred brand of politics (even Proportional Representation would have made it extremely unlikely that Miliband would currently occupy 10 Downing Street), the idea that democracy is only good if it gets the "right" result certainly appears to be gaining traction in certain political circles. Worryingly, however, in the aftermath of the referendum result, it also appears to be gaining sympathy among some within the media, an op-ed calling the Leave vote "lizard-brained" appearing shortly after the results were announced, which can fit nicely alongside the Guardian's dehumanisation of Leave voters as rats in its cartoons and indeed open calls for the "ignorant masses" to be ignored. But again, this is nothing new either: after the last General Election, after all, Giles Fraser suggested that "the poor" somehow don't know what's best for themselves, and therefore implicitly that they shouldn't be trusted to make democratic decisions (but since then has been an unlikely ally in calling both for Brexit and against the elitism on display since the vote). I can't help but feel that these obviously anti-democratic, misanthropic sentiments would not be receiving such a sympathetic hearing had they been coming from Nigel Farage in the wake of a Remain vote, and indeed the calls for a second referendum after the Scottish vote were also derided. Exactly the same attitude should be being taken with the call for a second EU referendum; whichever way tou look at it, 4 million is a lot less than 17.4 million, and democracy isn't about getting what you want all the time. What worries me most of all for the future of the country, however, is the sheer dehumanisation of Leave voters as a homogenous, evil bloc against the "good" people who voted Remain - when Leave voters aren't a malignant hive-mind of racists; they're our colleagues, friends, acquaintances, and family (though apparently for some even the latter isn't good enough to excuse voting the "wrong" way). Yet even this is nothing new; "racist" (after the referendum) has simply replaced "sociopath" or "murderer" (from the Conservative Party Conference) as the insult of choice for those allegedly in the right to degrade their political opponents. In more concrete examples, a good friend of mine was assaulted physically the day after the referendum at a College Ball for voting Leave, and calls for Farage's death have been sent by the dozen. Growing up I would sometimes hear my parents talking about what to do if we were ever asked to leave the UK. They were immigrants who came cross in the 1960's. My dad owned a shop selling baby goods and pushchairs and my mum was primarily a housewife but helped him in the shop , both were university graduates from Pakistan. They were well liked by all members of the community and worked hard to give me and my brother an education. Therefore I could never understand why they had this fear and brushed off their repeated requests for me to get a Pakistan identity card 'in case we are told to leave' because 'they will never accept us'. That is until now. Hearing the term 'Paki' that hasn't been used in decades has not only thrown this country back to the 1970's but it has made me realise why my parents had the fears they did, because many of my friends are experiencing the same. 'Update your CV'' or 'We need to start looking at other countries to move to' have become common conversations on WhatsApp threads as more and more stories of xenophobia appear on social media and the targets appear not to be the usual 'orthodox' looking Muslims but even those who consider themselves 'moderates'. Advertisement I understand many that voted Leave will have done so as a protest vote to voice concerns against the government and austerity measures. I know many felt they were doing the right thing for the economy and others fell for the lies being peddled as promises such as funding for the NHS or a control on number crossing the border etc. However there were some who voted Leave because they were racist and the xenophobic campaign appealed to them. I don't believe everyone who voted leave are racist but I do feel that those who were racist did. Brexit has legitimised and normalised racism. It has brought many 'closet' racists out of hiding and given confidence to the far right to 'claim back our country' under the guise of 'national sovereignty'. Islamophobia rose by 326% in 2015 (tell MAMA) yet it took attacks against Polish communities and others in these last few days for hate crime to be taken seriously, even Amnesty International have launched an urgent campaign. Only now that it has become a wider societal issue, I wonder whether people appreciate what it has been like to be a Muslim in Britain for many over the past few years. Listening to David Cameron condemning a 57% increase in hate crime following Brexit seems insincere. Only recently he described migrants as a 'swarm' and has allowed far right media to denigrate and propagate hate towards migrants. The Tory party Mayoral campaign was scaremongering, divisive and Islamophobic so is it any surprise that the chickens have come home to roost? Advertisement I'm am, however, surprised at the paranoia I feel every time I meet someone and silently question whether they harbour any racist tendencies towards me. Clearly it appears I'm not alone as many others feel the same and are looking for reassurance even if it is through a symbolic safety pin attached to an item of clothing. What is upsetting though is that we are currently living in a society where one has to show they aren't racist, being decent isn't enough at the moment. My parents were immigrants here and felt like they didn't have the right to speak out. I feel ashamed to be British but I used to be proud of a country that allowed diversity and once made me feel safe to practice my religion. At the moment I feel like I don't belong despite the fact I'm probably more Mancunian than those who throw the insults of 'Paki' and 'go back to your own country'. Should I think about leaving ? For me the answer is no. I won't leave because this is my home and I am confident this rise in hatred can be tackled, so to all those who say 'leave if you don't like it' I'm here to stay. You can look at the vote to leave the EU as a senseless act of sabotage by the disgruntled. Or it might be an angry act of vengeance, by those who had to shoulder the burden of change globalisation has thrust upon Western economies and societies for quite some time. "Globalisation didn't create a lot of losers, but the ones it did were concentrated in the countries that were the driving force behind it," writes Matt O'Brien for the Washington Post. Overall, the West has profited from globalisation, but a close-up shows that some parts of society didn't join the ride. The working classes in the West had to look on as manual labor was either offshored or replaced by automation. Those working in the factory had to adjust to deindustrialisation, which was ruthlessly enforced by Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s. Advertisement They sought refuge in the service industries, in hotels and restaurants, in pubs and bars, behind the till at supermarkets, as nurses, cleaners or delivery drivers. All the while those in the higher echelons of society were seen to be having a ball. Resentment started to simmer. Fast forward to the noughties and now more migrants start arriving from continental Europe. Lower wages in Eastern Europe and high unemployment in Southern Europe are driving them to settle in the UK in search of a better life. For the working classes in the UK, who already had to adapt once, this means they are being asked to compete for jobs and income again, not with workers overseas, but with those coming to the UK from abroad, moving in next door. This view might be lopsided and it doesn't take into account that migration from other non-EU countries always had been high. But the newest migrants were just seen to be the last straw, as they came equipped with unconditional all-access passes with an EU stamp on them. Advertisement It's not hard to imagine then why the EU is seen to be the main villain in this hurtful structural adjustment process. It rules afford the free movement of labour, which upped the pressure on those who were already feeling the heat of competition. More infos & graphics on the Brexit by Statista At the same time those fiddling about with other people's money in the City had created yet another financial bubble, the one that burst in 2007-08. But they of course were bailed out fast with public funds (and paid their bonuses nevertheless). Who then would feel the squeeze when governments had to pick up the bill, having to make ends meet by cutting down on expenses? Not the gamblers! Those in need of the state taking their side when the going got rough were in effect abandoned. Instead governments decided to prop up a system gone berserk. When actually fundamental repairs were necessary, they opted for more grease to keep the grinding noise down. Advertisement To add insult to injury, those who by definition should have stood by the marginalised weren't speaking up on their behalf. Labour was already New Labour and had become part of the problem, in the view of those counted out. Left without anybody to voice their concerns in the political arena on their behalf, many made friends with murky demagogues and took the referendum to drop a loose cog into the motor of the machine, just to make it sputter. This is just one possible explanation for what caused the Brexit, but this nexus surely is one of the main drivers of anti-elitism, expressed in the vote to leave. Also, resentment is climbing up the ladder into the middle classes, who can still compete, but whose wages haven't increased in real terms for the past 30 years. The decision to Brexit is one of the most irrational collective decisions in recent history, because those already feeling the heat have turned it up even higher, proving to be their own worst enemy. It was a destructive move, but it wasn't a bolt out of the blue either. Advertisement There are two reasons why the PLP revolt against Jeremy Corbyn's leadership is unlikely to succeed. The main reason is that the Parliamentary Labour Party will be unable to avoid a leadership election without Jeremy Corbyn (or John McDonnell in the unlikely case that Corbyn decides to step aside) on the ballot. While possibly legal, the unions are, mildly put, opposed to such a maneuver, and while the National Executive Committee seems split down the middle, it is difficult to conceive Constituency Labour Party representatives voting against giving members a vote. Running the leadership election without Corbyn would amount to rerunning the EU referendum without a "Leave" option. It would be seen as undemocratic and its legitimacy would be difficult to uphold. While one could argue that ignoring the decision of 17 million voters would be worse than ignoring the decision of 250 thousand Labour members, Labour members or NEC member would be unlikely to agree with such reasoning. The second reason why the PLP revolt will ultimately be unsuccessful is that in order to win a leadership election, the candidate nominated by the PLP would need to win over wavering 2015 Corbyn voters and attract new, moderate Labour voters to join the party. Angela Eagle, if confirmed, is not the right candidate to do either. On many issues salient to Labour members, be it Iraq (which coincides with the Chilcot report next week), Trident, or Syria, she is far to the right of members. Attacks write themselves. These issues are salient to Labour members, and Labour members are the selectorate that will decide whether Corbyn stays. Eagle is not particularly popular among Labour members. She finished 4th out of 5 in the deputy leadership election, behind Caroline Flint, Stella Creasy and Tom Watson. To make matters worse, her own CLP strongly backs Corbyn. Advertisement Neither is Eagle, even if strongly supported by the PLP, likely to create the enthusiasm necessary to out-mobilize the Labour left in the recruitment of new Labour members by a margin wide-enough to make up for her likely failure to persuade Corbyn backers to switch. While she is a seasoned Commons performer, there is nothing to suggest that she is particularly liked among Labour voters. In a post-referendum YouGov poll commissioned by Citi she only gained 1% when Labour voters were asked who would best replace Corbyn. It is therefore totally inconceivable how the PLP could think that Eagle would stand the best chance of winning a leadership contest against Corbyn. The failure to recruit Lisa Nandy, Gloria de Piero, Owen Smith or any other Labour MP who is untarnished by the Blair years and could make a plausible case of being in sync with members will ultimately spell defeat. Matt Cardy via Getty Images I've never got divorced and I rather hope never to do so. But I understand from friends that it can be one of the most stressful events in life. In a way, I had this thought at the back of my mind as I voted to Remain last Thursday. The pain of a national EU divorce was never going to be comfortable - particularly in the short-term. Advertisement Nonetheless, fed up with what people viewed as a less than accountable EU, voters were prepared to take that risk. The long break-up has thus begun. Despite my natural caution and concern about the fallout, today I actually feel overwhelmingly optimistic about Britain's future. I also know that isn't where most people right now. Not yet anyway. Many have criticised the lack of planning for this outcome, so here are some thoughts about what Britain should do now in order to prosper in the future. First, we must resolve to make ourselves the world's greatest trading nation. As an island, we need to rediscover that swashbuckling spirit of the 19th Century when we practically owned the concept of free-trade. Yes, we may have voted to Leave the EU's political project, but now is not the time to turn inwards. Advertisement Some will argue that we have just made that task a heck of a lot harder by leaving the biggest trading block on this planet. But dig deeper and the reality may in fact be quite different. Surprisingly, as a member of the EU, the UK currently has just 63% of all its trade covered by free-trade agreements. Meanwhile Norway executes 80% of their exports under free-trade agreements, Canada reaches 69% and Australia 77%. So here is an opportunity to significantly improve on pre-exit position by signing bi-lateral free-trade agreements throughout the rest of the world. I was known as Party Chairman, but my seat around the Cabinet table was in fact as Minister without Portfolio. I fulfilled that role by being a trade envoy for the UK; focussing on fast-growing South-East Asia including countries like Singapore, Taiwan and Vietnam. I would typically chair so called JETCO Summits (Joint Economic Trade and Co-operation meetings on trade). But after we had discussed a few perfunctory matters relating to, say, some local bureaucratic problem for our goods at a port of entry, the rest of the discussion would largely consist of problems which needed EU Commission solutions. And there they remained. Fast growing Vietnam would always struggle to be high enough on the EU's trade agenda to actually resolve a trade deal. EU/Vietnam free trade agreement talks have been ongoing since June 2012. It won't surprise the reader to hear that they remain 'ongoing'. Imagine how much faster we could wrap up trade agreements with these developing powers on a bi-lateral basis. And yes, they really do want to trade with us. This is our chance to steal a march on our EU friends and partners. Second, we need to cut corporation tax to reassure business that this remains their natural home. This would send a clear and unambiguous sign that Britain remains open for business. Advertisement George Osborne has already said that corporation tax will reduce to 19% next year, then down to 18% in 2020. But that leisurely reduction is out of kilter with the new reality. In fact we will have left the EU by the time of that second cut. So now we need to send an urgent message that there is no better place to do business, something that hasn't changed with our pending EU exit. The new Chancellor must therefore accelerate the programme of corporation tax cuts. This would reassure business, reconfirm Britain as the ultimate business-friendly destination and help secure our impressive jobs factory of Europe reputation. Yes, there is a hit to the exchequer, but it's far less costly than sitting on our hands and allowing businesses to drift away from our shores. This move will not only therefore pay for itself, but pay us dividends too. Third, we need to re-ignite the Red-Tape Challenge and this time throw EU bureaucracy on the bonfire. During the coalition government, ministers would sit around the Cabinet table with David Cameron chairing meetings where we would attempt to seek and destroy red-tape, which all too often held back industry. We systematically worked through over 30 sectors in our economy and Oliver Letwin was ruthless in challenging the quangos, agencies and often government departments about why a particular piece of business-strangling legislation was required. For those who wonder how Britain managed to grow faster than our neighbours from 2013, I would suggest that the answer lay as much in this single exercise as any other individual measure. Advertisement And yet, there was usually an awkward realisation during these meetings that some pettifogging barrier to expanding business had been identified, only to then discover we were all powerless around the Cabinet table to stop it. We had come across some job destroying red-tape, straight out of Europe. As the archived red-tape challenge website reveals on its Q&A: "Question: Will you scrap EU regulations? Answer: The UK government cannot scrap EU regulations, but we do recognise the burden they impose." Tell us about it and we'll complain to the European Commission, was the bottom line. So our new leader should repeat the entire red-tape challenge series, but this time there need be no barriers other than those that our parliament wishes to maintain. By the end of 2015 the red-tape challenge had saved British business around 13billion. We could most likely squeeze the same saving out again. That is the equivalent of our entire contribution to the EU (though we do get about 4.5billion back). Taken with the accelerated corporation tax cut, the EU red-tape bonfire would provide a compelling case for business to stay put, expand and generate even more jobs. Fourth, the new Prime Minister should set us a new national goal. I suggest that should be to become the largest European Economy within the next 20 years. I have seen first-hand how the government's in emerging markets always set themselves ambitious targets. In countries like South Korea and Singapore, there is broad public awareness of these national goals. By comparison the United Kingdom has tended to live year to year, occasionally talking about a long-term economic plan and vaguely referencing doubling trade - but it has lacked substance and there has never been a sense of public awareness or buy-in. Setting that direction is something that only the Prime Minister can do. Explaining it in a way that will ignite, excite and energise British citizens and business is a job few could achieve. So a critical part of this plan is to find a leader who can inspire our nation to not only direct us back onto the economic path that we were on prior to last week's vote - but to exceed it with a vision of what Britain can achieve in the world, thereby truly enabling us to fulfil our enormous national potential. Advertisement Breaking-up is always hard to do. But now the nation has made that decision, it is our duty to make it work for those who voted Remain or Leave. We did not know it at the time, but as we drove through the open gates of Hacienda Petac, we were entering an embrace with Paradise. Being British, I use my superlatives sparingly, however, without hesitation I can state that our four days at Hacienda Petac were phenomenal, a picture-perfect place of peace and pampering. Advertisement We arrived right on time, 4pm as we had advised, and there at the end of the driveway waiting to greet us was Colleen Leonard, the manager of this heavenly hacienda. Beside her were two Mayan women looking simply beautiful in their exquisite traditional dresses, huilpes, offering us wide smiles along with hibiscus infused ice-tea. Since check-in details had been included in the guest questionnaire that we completed when making the booking, we went from sipping our cool drinks with our warm welcome to being lead down an intriguing stone path, passing original hacienda walls in all their "ruined" glory, across a wooden bridge, which paired with the old walls conspired to suggest the entrance of a castle. Casa Ramon proved to be exactly that, our castle in the magical Mexican-Mayan land of Petac, for we were certainly treated as royalty. Petals and leafage were extravagantly laid with love, decorating beds and bathrooms. It was a beautiful way to say 'Welcome', and we felt it in our hearts. From that point, I knew that we were in for an enchanting experience. Advertisement At every move, every angle of the Petac property appeared poised to be framed for a photoshoot. Whether for high fashion or interior design magazines, carefree we walked into each shot to indulge in our surroundings, whether it be to test out the comfort of the fabulous furniture or to slide into a hammock to drape a hand into the heated swimming pool below and lazily look out for the appearance of the motmot birds. The elegance of the 250 acre, 17th century estate has been exceptionally restored by award-winning architect and design team Reyes Rios & Larrain, creating the beautifully crafted body of Hacienda Petac. Its life force and personality is spun into your sojourn by the sensational staff who mindfully grace the grounds with one purpose... How to artfully weave an experience to enchant you. Every offering is gifted with tranquil beauty, and since Petac invites one party booking at any one time, the focus is you and your enjoyment. Paradise is exclusively yours. Advertisement The freedom that follows the privacy of being the exclusive guests to such an exquisite environment allowed us to truly unwind and ease out any tensions. Our young trio were able to splash, squeal and sprint around without the stress of disturbing other peace-seeking guests. Unadulterated fun for the kids in the purest sense of the word. A marvellous massage at the Mayan hut styled spa eked out any remaining tensions, making this mama feel jazzy and carefree. Mother-daughter manicures made a three-year-old feel singularly special. Sipping mocktails at sunset, soaking in a bubbling jacuzzi in the jungle, created a special sparkle in several sets of eyes. A husband and wife delighted by a candlelight pathway leading them to a rose petal and clove oil scented submersion into that same sparkle in the eyes inducing jacuzzi. It was easy to trust that our three treasures were being watched over with kindness by our Mayan caregivers. A complete treat. Advertisement Actually, the picture is not at all complete without mentioning the masterpiece tables we were invited to for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We were charmed by the mesas at the patio by the well, under the Moorish arches at the Casa Principal, or surrounded by the cradling colours of the dining room. They were the most magnificent table settings I have ever had the pleasure to dine at. Again, the use of petals, flowers and leafage was employed; delicately, lovingly and skillfully placed in a manner which provoked the emotions of joy and gratitude. Napkins were folded and moulded to produce butterflies, lilies and other such shapes which the children wanted to preserve in its form or be taught how to reproduce it. There could not be a better way to feel when sitting down with your loved ones to enjoy a meal. Each and every course that was brought out to us was served with excitement at our imminent pleasure. Each and every course was a culinary delight that had been planned and prepared according to our preferences as teased out by the pre-arrival questionnaire. Each and every course was appreciated with mucho gusto by each and every member of our family. Provecho! Advertisement Throughout our stay at Hacienda Petac, there was never the feel of busyness of a business, there was the feel of considerate caregiving for us and the environment. I can only repeat that our family holiday at Hacienda Petac was phenomenal, from the moment we stepped out of our car at our arrival to the teary farewell as the gratitude (mixed with a touch of grief) was felt in silence as we listened to the tyres roll off of the gravel driveway. Hasta pronto, Hacienda Petac! Perfection. Miller & Martin attorney Ward Nelson has been recognized for his professional achievements and for his commitment to the Chattanooga community with an invitation to become a fellow of the Chattanooga Bar Foundation. Each year the CBF invites a select few to join the ranks of the local fellows. The fellows work to improve the study of law, improve the administration of justice, elevate the ethical standards of the bench and bar, improve relations between the members of the legal profession and the public, help lawyers who are ill, award scholarships and provide funds for charitable causes. Mr. Nelson has been with Miller & Martin since 1987 and is a member of the firms practice groups for Mergers & Acquisitions and Health Care. A Chattanooga native, Mr. Nelson attended the McCallie School and received a Morehead Scholarship to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting in 1980 and from the University of North Carolina School of Law with honors in 1985. Although the European Union, through Jean-Claude Junker, Donald Tusk, Francois Hollande and Angela Merkel, may be insisting on not starting any kind of negotiations with the United Kingdom on the Brexit as long as Article 50 has not been triggered by the British Prime Minister, informal negotiations have actually already started. The Conservative Party leadership election is yet another example of how the Brexiters get their ideas out there, with each new Tory candidate bringing new concepts and new ideas of what the UK's new relationship with the European Union could look like under a new Prime Minister and a new government following the EU referendum result. Advertisement It is then the EU leaders' turn to respond when asked at press conferences by the journalists about the various concepts and ideas coming from Britain's former Leave campaigners. When the likes of Hollande and Merkel -- obviously -- mostly respond in the negative to nearly everything proposed, insisting on the fact that "any agreement, which will be concluded with the UK as a third country, will have to be based on a balance of rights and obligations" and that "access to the single market requires acceptance of all four freedoms", the Brexiters go back to their drawing boards to try and find new ideas. And so on... The negotiations have not officially started since Article 50 has not been invoked by the UK government yet. However, the discussion between one side and the other is already going on with the journalists and the media playing the important role of intermediaries, whether they want it or not. The Brexiters also use the media to test the waters with the British public, to know whether it is inclined to accept such-and-such a deal as a good deal with their European neighbours, monitoring the media, the comments, the social media. Don't get them wrong, these test ideas, concepts and plans are just this: Virtual and abstracts thoughts that don't amount to a pledge that the future PM would have to respect after negotiations are concluded. Keeping everything informal is paramount and means words and thoughts are non-binding. Advertisement All that will obviously change once the new Tory leader is chosen, because they will be elected on a specific commitment for Britain and with a mandate from the British people to effectively conclude the best possible deal for Britain once out of the EU. [Co-authored with psycho-historian, Nick Duffell] The 'Brexit' shock is traceable to three causes. First, the alienation of a cherished national identity that underlies immigration fears, especially amongst older and less privileged voters. Second, the widening gap between rich and poor, as reflected in London's desire to remain and the rest of England's to leave: effectively the divide between globalization's winners and losers. Last and perhaps greatest, the desire to punish the political mainstream for its decade-long failure to deal with these issues. Advertisement History teaches us that whenever there's a widespread feeling of impotence, voters' knives come out. History seems to have been ignored, and if we're to properly respond to these issues we must start with some deeper questions. By going for Brexit, have we Brits fired our anger at the right target, or have we perhaps mis-aimed and shot ourselves in the foot? In which case, what is the right target? Although Britain's unique education system specialises in producing what we have elsewhere called Wounded Leaders, which structurally maintains the class divide, the above three causes are not peculiar to the UK. In the U.S. and across Europe, citizens are outraged at the inability of mainstream politicians to address their problems. The disturbing truth, though, is that it's not that politicians don't want to, but that they can't. The reality is that the causes of Brexit - and therefore the solutions - are not to be found at a national or even European level. The problems we're angry about stem from a level our politicians can't reach - the global level. It's a bit like banging on the door of a house to be let in when there is no one inside to answer. Politicians try in vain to implement national or European solutions, but the problems remain, because the real cause - as former UK prime minister Gordon Brown also acknowledges - is globalization. Advertisement In today's globalized economy, capital, corporations and investors move their investments seamlessly across national borders to wherever the highest returns and the cheapest workforces are to be had. Now that labour is also on a global walk-about, enormous panic infects many developed countries. But for any national economy to prosper, each government must compete for these inputs. And that's the problem. To keep their economies 'internationally competitive' nations have to de-regulate and privatize more than their competitors, in a never-ending race to provide more attractive environments for inward corporate investment. We call this vicious circle destructive global competition. Consequently, the policies delivered inevitably result in more immigration in order to provide a 'competitive' workforce and greater tax concessions for globally-mobile corporations and the rich. For any government, becoming uncompetitive is simply not an option, so the result is always the same: more immigration and higher taxes for nationally-rooted small businesses and the poor. Little wonder globalization's losers have rebelled. Both immigration and the wealth gap should be understood as global phenomena resulting from this competitive vicious circle and impossible to manage from a national or European level. By going for Brexit, the UK has simply selected a convenient culprit, when, from a larger perspective, destructive global competition is clearly to blame. Now, with both the UK and the EU severely damaged, the global bond-market wolves won't only be circling the UK but eying the Eurozone's other economic weaklings. Neither Brexit, nor shoring up the EU can solve anything, for in a globalised world national politics is effectively impotent. In fact, as a result of destructive global competition, we are now witnessing the demise of genuine democracy. Any party that gains power has little choice but to keep their economy internationally competitive, so ensuring the causes of Brexit become further entrenched. This was clear from the back-tracking reactions of some of the Brexit leaders. As they're realising, only more of the same corporate and market-friendly policies will be deliverable. Little wonder that voters see little difference between mainstream parties - themselves in meltdown - and feel impotent, angry, and fed-up with politicians. But choosing extreme candidates of either persuasion won't break this mould. Neither Trump, Sanders, Farage nor Corbyn would have any other choice but to keep their national economies competitive. That's why Left-of-centre governments soon find themselves forced into the same 'market-friendly competitiveness' agenda as the centre-right, as in France: "After 18 months of stagnation under orthodox socialist leadership, [Hollande] confirmed that he was swinging towards the market-friendly policies adopted over the past 15 years by left-wing parties in Germany, Britain and elsewhere." (The Times, 15.1.14) Or try electing a far-Left government as Greece did, and you'll soon find you get the opposite: the toughest austerity measures that global markets could devise. Advertisement So let's be perfectly clear: destructive global competition has left us with pseudo-democracy. As we demonstrate in our forthcoming book, The Simpol Solution, it's pointless swapping leaders in the hope they can change things for they are victims of a system they're not in control of. They're imprisoned by an impotence they refuse to admit and we citizens have yet to acknowledge. Paradoxically, both Leavers and Remainers, both Trump's supporters and Sanders's, both Right and Left across the world have much more in common than they suspect. The sad irony is that neither side realises that the deeper cause underpinning both their concerns is globalization. Whether it's the Left's concerns about multinationals not paying fair taxes and the lack of funding for public services, or the Right's about immigration, poverty and feelings of cultural alienation, both are symptoms of unregulated globalization: destructive global competition. A lot has been said in the media about Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, and there are many rumblings on the internet about another route to leave the European Union: repealing the European Communities Act 1972. So what's going on with this, how should the UK proceed, and what pitfalls do we need to be aware of? I was in the European Parliament on Friday morning, just after the referendum. I was the representative of UKIP (well, technically, of the EFDD Group in the European Parliament) at a behind-closed-doors meeting of the political group leaders known as the Conference of Presidents and I saw for myself the reaction of the President of the Parliament and the other political group leaders. There's nothing that happened there that wasn't repeated in the Parliament chamber on Tuesday. Schulz, the President of the Parliament, was predictably angry whilst former Prime Minister of Belgium, Guy Verhofstadt, was a little more subdued than usual. There was an atmosphere of shock, as though they couldn't believe what had happened. The British people have spoken, said Schulz, and now they must hurry up and get on with it and be gone. Indeed, all were adamant that Cameron should invoke Article 50 immediately. The big television screens played Cameron's resignation speech live, and they were all outraged that Cameron intended to allow his successor to invoke Article 50. Someone as pro-EU as Cameron couldn't bring himself to be the one to tell the EU formally that we're leaving. Advertisement The Parliament group leaders basically wanted the clock to begin ticking. Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty is very short, and easy enough for anyone to find and read online. In particular, the process is described in 50(2) as: 2. A Member State which decides to withdraw shall notify the European Council of its intention. In the light of the guidelines provided by the European Council, the Union shall negotiate and conclude an agreement with that State, setting out the arrangements for its withdrawal, taking account of the framework for its future relationship with the Union. That agreement shall be negotiated in accordance with Article 218(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. It shall be concluded on behalf of the Union by the Council, acting by a qualified majority, after obtaining the consent of the European Parliament. Here's the problem: the two-year countdown timer doesn't begin until the UK informs the Council of its intention to leave. David Cameron didn't do that on Tuesday, not formally. How is that decision taken? The answer is found in Article 50(1) of the Lisbon Treaty: 1. Any Member State may decide to withdraw from the Union in accordance with its own constitutional requirements. The problem is that under UK law, a referendum technically doesn't have legal force. It's advisory only, despite the fact that 17.4 million people voted to leave the EU. Never in British history have 17.4 million people all voted for anything at all. The mandate is clear enough, but the technical implementation requires agreement of the Government/Cabinet. David Cameron doesn't want to do that. He doesn't want the clock to begin ticking. So what happens next? Well, Cameron had hoped for a successor to be in place by October, a lengthy delay and one considered to be unacceptable by our EU colleagues. I find myself in a very difficult position: I want this done as soon as possible, but I support the UK's legal right not to be dictated to by Brussels over timescales. The 1922 Committee, the committee of Conservative MPs which controls the process of a leadership election, has proposed a quicker timetable which will yield a new Prime Minister by September. This is still pretty slow, but a little better. Many people are becoming increasingly concerned: until Article 50 is formally triggered, are we sure that we can trust our government to actually follow through and leave the European Union? And the sooner we begin negotiations, the sooner we finish them - and the shorter the period of instability that could arise. The frustration and delays caused by this (and the 2-year period) have caused some people to call for the other legal route to leave the European Union to be used: repeal of the 1972 European Communities Act. Under a long-established principle in British law, no Parliament may legally bind its successor. The 1972 European Communities Act enables the UK to be part of the EU. A future Parliament may not be bound by that decision, and therefore has the power to repeal that legislation and leave the Union. The problem? Well, it's a nuclear option. All the Remain threats - 'what if there are tariffs', 'what happens about X, Y and Z where we need to co-operate with our neighbours' - would actually turn out to be true. Well, not all their threats. We still wouldn't have World War 3 or the end of Western political civilisation as we know it, but it would be a shock to the economy. A more pertinent problem is this: can you see both Houses of Parliament unilaterally repealing the Act? I can't. If Parliament won't do it, then whether you like it or not we're stuck with Article 50. Advertisement Although the Labour Party has been tumultuous since its defeat at last year's general election., and even more so since Jeremy Corbyn stepped up to lead the party last September, the past week or so has been shocking, even by the party's standards. The story is one we've heard time and time again; I joined the party on 8th May 2015, after convincing myself of a Labour win, only to be left angry and disappointed. Yet, during my short time as a member of the party, my view of my fellow members, the MPs and the leadership have changed drastically. The image that I have etched in to my head from the general election is that of me and a group of friends from university, sat together in front of the big screen in a bar that was showing the results. With most of us being Labour supporters, this is perhaps the moment where I've felt closest to the party, and this was before I even became a member. Perhaps there is something about defeat that brings people together, but whilst I watched as Ed Miliband resigned, I felt as though joining the party would enable me, and everyone else who was shocked by the outcome of the election, to work with the party to make sure we wouldn't risk another defeat in 2020. Naive or not, I felt that the one positive thing to come from the general election could be unity within our own party. However, looking back over the past year, I've come to realise that the Labour Party has a huge problem with divisiveness, disloyalty and elitism. Having been interested in politics for a good number of years, I've often scoffed at people who say they have no time for politicians, whether it's because they don't trust them or because they don't think they can enact any real change. Listening to people tell me that politicians are all the same, or that party politics is just a petty game has often bewildered me; surely if you want to see change happen, then being a member of a movement is the greatest way to ensure it does? Yet when you take yourself out of the mind-set of a party member, when you consider the views of an ordinary person looking in on the Labour Party from the outside, it's easy to see why people don't always want to engage with us. Who would look at the disunity, the antisemitism, the sexism and the power struggles that our party faces and think, 'This is something I want to be a part of?' Advertisement Part of me feels as though I'm not best placed to voice this complaint. I'll be the first person to admit that I haven't been as involved with the party as I'd have liked over the past year, and sometimes I've watched from the side-lines during the most difficult periods. I often find myself feeling hypocritical; here I am, telling people that they should get involved with politics if they want to see change happen, but I've often failed to do just that. But I can't help feeling that, even as a party member and politically active young person, I too fit in with those who won't necessarily engage with politics. I wasn't even two years old when Tony Blair became Prime Minister, and only fourteen when Gordon Brown resigned. The years in which I've become more engaged with politics have been dominated by the coalition, and now the Conservative majority governments. I feel like I haven't seen the Labour Party at its best, whatever that best may be. Instead, all I've known is a party divided. Of course, my experience isn't shared by everyone. I know some people for whom the party has helped immensely. There are some that tirelessly campaign, door knock and speak out for the Labour Party and I admire the work that they do. These are the members who can encourage the disillusioned and the apathetic to get more involved with party politics. But unfortunately, not everyone is like them. Advertisement Whilst my own personal stories are ones of feeling like I don't have a place in the party anymore, other members have faced far worse. Some have spoken to me about bullying and intimidation, others speak of the antisemitism that has plagued the party. Sexism is another problem; how can we claim to be a party of diversity and equality when women are spoken down to and jeered at in meetings? There was no greater symbol of the political climate we live in today than that of the Vote Leave battle-bus. Paraded around the country plastered with a giant lie, it was proud of its falsehood. It simply did not care, as if the line between a truth and lie no longer matters. We are now entering an era of 'post-truth' politics. It is here that the loudest liar can become King. It's in this climate that the dire economic warnings from institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, the Bank of England, the OECD, can be dismissed as 'project fear' -- a simple sinister collusion of vested interests against the masses. The rejection of rationalism is an infection spreading on all sides of the political debate. I've see this phenomenon on both the Left and the Right. Michael Gove saying that "people in this country have had enough of experts" is the same as Paul Mason crying to the crowd at Glastonbury to "switch off the TV and trust internet networks and each other". The rise of the internet and social media has meant voters can easily access information from sources tailored to reflect nothing but their own views back to them. It makes for a toxic environment in which discomforting facts can be waved away as lies of the 'mainstream media' or 'elites'. Boris Johnson has made a career from anti-intellectualism and is a very British demagogue. He has shown that he'd send his country down the river with blustering aplomb if it would further his political ambitions. His response to independent experts and institutions warning against Brexit was to delegitimize, dismiss and smear them. When it was pointed that the Leave campaign's promise to spend 110billion on replacing EU subsidies to the arts, science, farmers and deprived regions would leave a 40billion hole in our economy, their response was illuminating. The Institute for Fiscal Studies were liars, in the pocket of Brussels, and therefore cannot be trusted. Advertisement Hearing the reasons why Leave voters chose Brexit has left me with a bitter taste my mouth. I cannot help feeling my nation has been played for a fool. Many Brexit voters wanted a strong welfare state, solid communities, and fairer share of our metropolitan wealth. But the Brexit Leaders such as Gove, Hannan and Carswell had no plans for these concerns. They are a bunch of renegade free marketeers tired of trade regulations. They are fantasists who hold a romantic image of a tax haven Britain, free from the shackles of a European Social Chapter. These are not ardent social democrats fighting for your NHS. Many people who supported Brexit did so because of genuine concerns with uncontrolled immigration. The slogan 'take back control' was a dogwhistle we all heard. When Nigel Farage unveiled that chilling poster, the silence from Johnson and co was deafening. The Leave campaign leaders were happy to stoke up the fears over immigration, to turn on their own principles, and knowingly paint a false impression of what a post-EU Britain would look like. The leading Brexiteers wanted us to stay in the EEA or to be in a similar arrangement with our European counterparts. Doing so would mean we would have to sign up to the principle of free movement of people. Voting Leave was never going to lead to a reduction in immigration. Only hours after the referendum result was announced the Leave campaign began to row back from their immigration 'pledges'. I felt dismay at how many people felt that sabotaging our economy will only hurt 'the elites' and politicians, but I can see where this feeling comes from. There are those in Britain who have never experienced the 'recovery' of our economy since 2008. There are many stranded in low-pay transient work who feel adrift and alienated from our wealthier metropolitan centres. What weight does rational argument have when you feel like you've got nothing to lose? Advertisement Gove and Johnson's big trick was offering a populist lie that leaving the EU was going to cure all our governments' failings over the past few decades. Yet voting Leave was never going to reduce inequality and our country's 'Londoncentricity'. Areas such as Cornwell and Western Wales will be massively harmed by the loss the EU regional development fund. Wealth will continue to pool in The City. The Brexiteers led us down this path knowingly and here we are. Within hours of the referendum result the pound had plummeted and our economy had already fallen behind France's. I fear this is an indicator on things to come. When you take a knife to our economy, you don't just harm City traders and 'elites', you harm us all. It was Grayling, Gove and Johnson who fanned the flames of populism, offered all things to all men, and handed us the knife. As Gove, Johnson and Hannan rode forward on the waves of Farage's fearmongering and bigotry, I wonder if they thought about the consequences. Now they'll be free to play with our country's course; free from pesky bureaucrats, regulations and tax, but they'll do so in a country whose soul has been torn in two. The concerns of Leave voters will not be addressed by this referendum result. Over the next few years it will be these voters who will end up more angry, disengaged and disaffected than ever before. UN Photo/Evan Schneider. Used under licence (creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/legalcode) In May, ministers in Nairobi announced plans to shut down Dadaab, the sprawling camp that houses some 350,000 Somali refugees in Kenya's remote north-east. The UN erected the first tents there in 1991, as the Somali state collapsed: a quarter-century on, it stands there still - the largest refugee settlement on earth. It is also among the world's oldest. And in certain ways, Dadaab constitutes something of an anachronism. Only a third of the 65 million people uprooted by conflict globally are refugees: the majority have been made homeless inside their country's borders, not outside them. Sixty percent of today's displaced are in towns and cities, not camps: connections, hopes of work, and fear draw those forced to flee increasingly towards the world's urban, populated areas. Advertisement But in almost every other sense - in its longevity, its hopelessness, its stasis - Dadaab represents a terrible indictment of the prevailing international approach to humanitarian crises, as well as the world's failure to bring an end to its most protracted conflicts. Most of those who fled Somalia in the 1990s have no homes to go back to; their children - and their children's children - lack any connection to the country, which anyway remains prohibitively unstable. Kenya, for social, economic and demographic reasons, is unwilling to further formalise the refugees' presence on its territory, and bars the camp's residents from working, or even straying beyond its perimeter. And though the United States resettles a few thousand refugees from Dadaab annually, the total number of Somalis taken in by other countries is negligible. The tragedy here is not just that successive generations of refugees cannot envision a future for themselves or their families beyond a camp in the desert. It is that the status quo - pure limbo - serves no one. With support from the international community, Kenya could strike a new deal for refugees that would, if properly conceived and executed, serve as model for responding to long-term crises elsewhere. To begin with, wealthier governments, the UN and NGOs need to demonstrate that they are serious about supporting Kenya in hosting, and ultimately absorbing into its systems, significant numbers of Somali refugees. This does not just mean continuing the basic food and health services that organisations like the International Rescue Committee deliver every day in Dadaab. It means engaging the international financial institutions and private sector and generating a comprehensive development plan for the north-east, to the benefit of refugees and Kenyans alike (acute malnutrition rates are three times greater among the host community around Dadaab than within the camp). It means tearing down the silos that seal emergency humanitarian work and long-term development activities - meaningless distinctions in Dadaab, as they are in so many other protracted settings - off from each other, and establishing collective outcomes for health, education, protection from violence for women and children, and economic well-being, against which progress and performance can be measured. And it means working through a policy for Somali refugees in Kenya that spares them the indignity of future decades of hand-outs, and allows them to become self-sufficient, and to contribute to Kenyan society. Advertisement Not all will want or be able to stay. Those for whom Somalia offers viable prospects and a safe future should, if going back is their wish, be supported in doing so. However daunting it may be, international support for improved security in the country is essential if such returns are to be undertaken in safety and in dignity. The vulnerable among the refugee population should be resettled out of Kenya to third countries, including across the European Union: this might, after months of European efforts to prevent asylum-seekers entering its borders, partially restore the bloc's credibility in calling on non-European states to continue sheltering huge numbers of refugees. Dadaab also presents an opportunity. More than 125 million people around the world are urgently in need of humanitarian assistance. Despite record contributions, the gap between those needs and the resources provided to meet them continues to grow. The case for better aid is therefore as compelling as the case for more aid, and donors and the humanitarian community need to recognise this, by committing to monitoring, generating, sharing and responding to evidence on the impact of different aid approaches, and by establishing common mechanisms to measure the cost-efficiency and cost-effectiveness of specific programmes. Kenya could be the perfect place to pilot these models, and to forge new and innovative ways of delivering aid. At its headquarters in Buckinghamshire, UK charity MEDICAL DETECTION DOGS is harnessing a time-old technology to pioneer a brand new method of early cancer detection. Remarkably, the charity trains dogs to recognise the smell of human disease before even the symptoms are felt. DR CLAIRE GUEST, animal behaviourist and director of the charity Medical Detection Dogs, has dedicated the last ten years to exploring the possibility that dogs could be the solution to the ever more pressing problem of early cancer detection. Advertisement She set the charity up in 2008 in partnership with Dr John Church, a former orthopaedic surgeon. Four years previously, both had worked on the first significant study to investigate the possibility that dogs could detect human cancer. Dr Guest explains: "For hundreds of years humans have worked with dogs in every aspect of our lives. Dogs have helped us catch our food, protected us, found us when we're lost and consistently provided loyalty and affection. "They are tuned into our moods and our behaviour. If you take into account this intimate relationship and combine it with their extraordinary sense of smell, which is powerful enough to detect one drop of blood in three Olympic-sized swimming pools of water, the idea they can pick up the odours related to human disease is really not so hard to believe." As life expectancy has risen and healthcare improved, the threat of cancer has grown. One in two nowadays will be diagnosed with cancer. In spite of this, little progress has been made in the sphere of early detection. Advertisement Prostate cancer is a salient example. The traditional prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests have a 75 per cent false positive rate. This leads to three in four men with a positive result unnecessarily undergoing a second round of painful, invasive tests. In contrast, secondary screening provided by the dogs would involve a painless, non-invasive and cheap process of sending a urine sample to the bio-detection unit in Buckinghamshire. Working one at a time with a trainer, the cancer detection dogs are presented with eight urine samples on a carousel, one of which contains cancer. The dog sniffs each sample until it finds the one that contains the cancer volatiles. The dog then sits and stares fixedly until the trainer confirms a correct identification and rewards the dog with a treat. The detection dogs never come into contact with the patients who volunteer to donate their samples. In these types of training trials, the cancer detection dogs have recorded 93 per cent reliability. The charity is currently completing two training trials, one into the detection of breast cancer using breath samples and another into prostate, bladder and kidney samples using urine samples. The research will be double-blind tested and peer reviewed. Is Dr Guest frustrated by the slow process of turning her research into a functioning secondary screening service available on the NHS? Advertisement "Yes and no. Of course it's frustrating that right now there are people all over the country - and indeed across the world - who cannot be screened by the dogs instantly and receive the quick, accurate answer to this most important question of all. "However, you would expect - and demand - the level of scrutiny we have faced to be applied to any new technology in healthcare. It is people's lives that are at stake and so it is vital we can prove conclusively that our dogs achieve a high level of reliability." While the cancer work makes steady progress, the second arm of the charity is already saving the lives of sixty individuals across Britain with long-term conditions on a daily basis. Of these, the majority suffer from brittle type 1 diabetes, a severe form of the condition which means sufferers get no warning signs that their blood sugar is nearing crisis levels. Claire Moon, a diabetes nurse from Cambridge has brittle type 1 diabetes herself and was one of the first to receive a dog from the charity. "I used to stay awake, or wake up every hour overnight, testing my blood sugars 20 times a day," she says. "I feared not waking up in the morning because my body has stopped giving me warning signs, such as dizziness or blurred vision, when my blood sugar dips dangerously low." Advertisement Now Claire has Magic, a bounding golden Labrador who remains at her side wherever she goes. "Magic has alerted me hundreds of times and saved the NHS thousands of pounds by preventing emergency call-outs. I used to be rushed to hospital in a critical condition about once every month. "Before Magic, I had to give up my job; now he's a firm favourite on my ward. I call him the blond bombshell!" Gemma Faulkner at only 13 years old has had to deal with more than most people her age. Diagnosed with brittle type 1 diabetes a month before her third birthday, her condition has meant frequent stays in hospital and the fear of lapsing into a coma at night. Thanks to the charity, she now has Polo, an energetic black Labrador. Polo is firmly one of the Faulkner family. Gemma's mother recalls the first time Polo alerted during the night to Gemma having a hypo. "He came into our bedroom and came up to me. I knew he was telling me there was a problem. We tested Gemma's blood and her blood sugar levels had fallen dangerously low." Advertisement For Gemma, Polo is more than just a life-saver: "He is my new best friend. I love him so much. We have great fun running through puddles and playing ball. He makes me feel safe and confident - I can't imagine life without him!" Dr Guest is ever pragmatic, but nevertheless remains resolutely optimistic about the future. "We know we have revealed a remarkable ability dogs have to detect dangerous chemical changes in our bodies. These highly sensitive bio-detectors should not be underestimated just because they possess waggy tails!" The charity receives no government funding and relies entirely on charitable donations. For more information please visit: www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk. "People I don't know have decided my future," said Ewa Ferdynus, a first-year Photography student from Poland who is studying at Bournemouth University. This was Ewa's response when asked her thoughts concerning the UK's recent decision to leave the European Union (EU). Nonetheless, this concern is felt not only by Ewa, but also by students in many universities across the UK. Britain's vote to exit the EU last week is expected to have considerable implications for the nation's education sector. Amid the uncertainty of the negotiation process between the UK and the EU over the next two years, it is difficult to predict what will happen to EU students in the UK. The most likely implication is a reduction in the number of EU students. In reality, however, there are currently around 125,000 EU students studying in several institutions in the UK, contributing approximately 3.7 billion pounds to the economy and creating 380,000 jobs. The drop in the value of sterling has indeed presented an advantage for EU students planning to undertake their studies in the UK. However, the process to come to the UK will certainly become more complex, particularly when the planned restrictions on migrants are implemented. Potential students would have to endure different procedures and perhaps lose some of the benefits they currently enjoy. Advertisement As a result of such uncertainty, which is likely to last for the next few year, European students are more likely to choose non-UK universities, particularly those in Germany and the Netherlands, which also have excellent reputations. This will impact significantly on UK universities whose revenues rely primarily on international students. Moreover, not only with regards to financial, students from the EU have helped improve the quality of UK higher education, since many arrive with a better educational background. To overcome this possible reduction in EU-generated revenue, one effort that could be made by the UK government within the next few years is to expand into developing countries, such as those in Asia, to attract more international students; in particular, China, India and Indonesia. Indeed, China is already the largest source of international students in the UK, with the number reaching 89,540 students in 2015. This is followed by India and Nigeria, which account for 17,000 to 18,000 students annually. Nonetheless, among these countries, Indonesia needs further scrutiny. Currently, the number of Indonesian students in the UK totals only around 3,000, despite being the world's fourth most populous country after China and India, with a population of 260 million. Furthermore, two million of these choose to study overseas. Advertisement Presently, Australia remains a top destination for Indonesian students. Last year, it is estimated that the number of Indonesian students in Australia moved beyond 19,000; a number far higher than the UK. The relatively low number of students from Indonesia in the UK is very surprising, especially when tuition fees in Australian universities are much more expensive than in the UK. With Brexit, if viewed from the perspective of the UK government, Indonesia is indeed a potential market for UK universities to tackle the possible financial gap resulting from the potential reduction of EU students. Nevertheless, all these factors are highly dependent on the ability of the UK government to promote its higher education in Indonesia. Moreover, it depends on how strong the UK government is in its pursuit of educational cooperation with Indonesia. Despite the fact that education ties between Indonesia and the UK have been relatively intense in recent years, especially with the Newton Fund initiative launched last March, it is still far from ideal, particularly when compared with the educational partnership between Indonesia and Australia. Throughout this time, as far as we know, there has been no joint degree program involving universities in the UK and Indonesia. Furthermore, as written last month, very few student exchange programs exist between the two countries. It is important to note that these initiatives have been well implemented by Indonesia and Australia, and have successfully helped boost the number of Indonesian students. Clearly, in midst of the ongoing concerns over Brexit, many steps can be taken by UK universities to increase cooperation with universities and educational institutions in emerging market countries. On a side note, there is another opportunity arising from Brexit. For prospective international students, especially those from Asia, the current fall in the value of sterling would lower the cost of studying in the UK by 10 percent; especially when compared with the US and Australia. Advertisement This euphoria should be captured immediately because, if it is not, UK universities will suffer greater losses. Jeff J Mitchell via Getty Images The last week has been one of the longest that politics has seen in decades; crammed full of events and swollen with unpredictability. Having spent the last few months campaigning to leave the European Union with Boris Johnson, and having seen him connect with members of the public, I was happy to support his bid for leader. I absolutely believed he was the one to do it. I was excited to see him start to work on putting together a good deal with our European friends and allies, and ensuring that this was a beneficial outcome for everyone in our country. I was also determined not to allow a rewriting of history; the wishes of 17million voters could not be ignored by a leader who was uncommitted to seeing Brexit through. Advertisement It became clear, however, that many of my colleagues did not agree, and Boris took the right and brave decision of announcing that he will not stand. This is a disappointment to those who backed him, but a testament to a man of character, honour and dignity - and a stark contrast to the awful sight of a Labour leader clinging on to his position even if it will tear his party apart. We must now move on and return to the question of which of the five excellent candidates who have announced that they will stand for leadership are most capable of steering our country through a truly challenging period. It is a question of who is most the able to continue the important business of Government, while ensuring that the deal we get with the European Union will benefit every family and every region of the United Kingdom. I have been convinced today by Theresa May that she is the one to deliver. This is a time for experience, and Mrs May has the most of those on offer. Her six years spent as Home Secretary show not just a track record of success, but an impressive resilience and almost unmatched stamina to maintain success through the ups and downs of political life which may have tossed the careers of a less able politician aside. I am reassured by Mrs May's commitment that a prominent Leave voice will handle our negotiations with the European Union, and that a new department will be created to tackle this complex issue and see it through to a positive conclusion. This is vital. The 52% who voted to leave should be respected, and as Mrs May said this morning, 'Brexit means Brexit'. She talked about how there must be no remain 'through the back door'. A democratic decision has been made with a high turnout and we need a leader who will deliver the decision of the people; Theresa May absolutely gets this. Advertisement I am passionate too about social justice, about giving every single person the best chance to succeed in life, no matter the colour of their skin, their postcode or who their parents are. A shared commitment to this goal, and furthering the efforts David Cameron has made to improve the life chances of those who feel they have been left behind in recent years, was absolutely key for me to be able to support any candidate. We need to build the better Britain that David Cameron talked about, and we cannot afford to allow this to become a mere sideshow. I am certain that Theresa May will secure and enhance this agenda, and was delighted by her assurance that the next government must deliver not for the few, but for every one of our citizens. Mrs May is someone who gets on with the job she is given, and I am sure that she will deliver if she is given this chance. Now is the time for stability and experienced leadership. It is a time for responsibility and delivery. It is a time, I am now sure, for Theresa May to be our Prime Minister. In 1651 the last musket ball was fired in the English civil war, a battle over parliamentary sovereignty and the power of democracy that ushered in a new age in spilled into Europe and the Americas. There is no smell of gunpowder in the air in 2016 but the battle of words is just as palpable as those famous battles of yesteryear. Advertisement That battle was the recent referendum on our membership to the European Union, which out in the pubs, buses, towns and work places certainly felt like a civil war. The split in the nation was evidenced by final turnout, with 51.9% voting to leave the EU, to 48.1% who voted to remain. It wasn't a pretty environment to live in, I can assure you. With the leave campaign openly pushing xenophobic bile about Turkey which wasn't helped by UKIP's very own demagogue Nigel Farage, stoking the fires with billboards depicting streams of Syrian refugees cueing up to enter Britain. The immigration card was lapped up by working class voters and the populist machine was in full grind with tabloid rags such as The Sun and The Daily Mail adding fuel to the hate campaign, constantly publishing stories about terrorists - with articles such as "EU rules force Britain to let in criminals and terror suspects" - a direct quote from the latter. It was exhausting and I still feel downhearted from the ordeal. Not so much because of the final vote, that's democracy in action, it was how you were mercilessly pounded with hate and fear from both campaigns. Advertisement I want to tell you a story that isn't London centric. An insight to what the impact the referendum has had on middle England towns. I am from Dudley, the second biggest town in Great Britain and the capital of The Black Country, heartland of the industrial revolution. It's a modest living here, we suffer a range of issues from lack of jobs, low wages, skills shortages and child poverty. There is always someone to blame and immigrants are an easy target. And boy, aren't they getting a bashing listening to people talk on the streets at the moment. The BBC, Sky and ITV have all interviewed Dudley residents, all stating immigration being a major factor, a lot of it you could consider as racist. The social demographic is broad too, British Muslims who would largely consider themselves are left leaning are lurching more to the right. I've had conversations with Muslim friends, colleagues and peers stating they are voting leave due to Romanians moving into their communities. Frankly, I am personally surprised with hearing this kind of chatter on the high street. I have always found The Black Country to be such a welcoming place. Advertisement I do not blame the people who live in England's marginalised towns, I blame the UK Government and their failure to stand up to hateful propaganda, especially when they are part of that output. Some people may accuse me of painting our great region in a negative light but we, like other areas in England and Wales, need to take a long hard look at ourselves. We let this happen and we allowed xenophobia to manifest itself in our communities. It's time to fight back with education and hope. I will always be proud of where I come from, but I am not proud of the institutions that represent us as they have quite clearly failed us. TechTown celebrated its one-year anniversary Wednesday morning. Mayor Andy Berke praised the nonprofit learning center for helping the city of Chattanooga make big strides. He said last night the city budget was passed unanimously, and in that budget was funding for TechTown. To create value in this world, weve gotta build things, he said. Its what the whole world is talking about now. We live in the innovation century, and what drives innovation is talent. Its people who come up with new ideas, and the only way that were gonna be successful as a city is if we maximize the talents. Cordell Carter, CEO of TechTown, said the learning center would not be possible without Chattanooga. You need a place thats risk taking. You need a place thats trying to change the narrative of the American South, he said. Mr. Carter went on to describe the nonprofits comprehensive approach, reaching 5,200 kids within just one year. He said the number equaled 13 percent of all 45,000 children in the district and mentioned the centers five partnerships with Title 1 schools. We are trying to go from 5 to 55, he said. Were looking to go further, deeper, take this thing to the next level. We have the greatest expectations for TechTown. An eighth grade student at CCA said his experience at TechTown gave him the opportunity to talk to people from NASA. He said he learned how coding could change the future through working with video games. A tour of the TechTown facilities reveals state-of-the-art learning opportunities for children from the ages of 7-17. The center boasts 23,000 square feet of space dedicated to robotics, circuitry, 3D design software development, and film. Mike Harrell, TechTown Board chairman, said TechTown has brought together six disciplines of technology in one place. The center has 200 laptops, 10 3D printers, circuitry components, high definition cameras, and green screens, all which are utilized through a project-based, hands-on, collaborative teaching approach. The students themselves come from all kinds of socioeconomic backgrounds, he said, some visiting downtown for the first time. At the end of the day, if the kids dont leave here believing they are capable of more than they thought they were capable of when they came in, then we failed them that day, said Mr. Carter. He said the same children who are failing algebra on state tests are excelling in their programs. Kids are more engaged in learning algebra because they cant program a robot unless they can solve for x, said Mr. Harrell. He said the mission of TechTown is to help develop an elaborate culture of creators for our community, a phrase coined by Mayor Berke. This is an incredible opportunity for us, the mayor said. After one year, TechTown has helped us make big strides. With talk of an imminent Labour leadership contest, here's how an anti-Corbyn candidate could declare their candidacy... I hereby announce my intention to stand for the Leadership of the Labour Party. With the new Conservative Prime Minister needing a fresh mandate from the British people, I will stand by three principles in any forthcoming General Election. Firstly, I pledge to lead a government from the reforming centre-left. As such, the Labour Party under my leadership would not stand candidates against the eight sitting Liberal Democrat MPs, nor Caroline Lucas in Brighton Pavilion. These are not times to be overly parochial. There are decent progressives across the parties. If nothing else the last few months have shown that it is time to put country before any party, and before the ambitions of individual politicians. Let us discuss that programme together. Advertisement Secondly, I will introduce a new workers' charter in the coming weeks which would see a future government deliver a genuine living wage to working Britons, an emergency budget which ensures that the financial benefits of immigration will be distributed to those areas most affected by it, and a programme of infrastructure investment that will help Britain manage the undeniable change it has and is going through. No longer will Labour be short-sighted when it comes to the consequences of EU membership faced by communities up and down Britain. This charter will also come with elements of responsibility - a jobs guarantee with a punitive element for those able but unwilling to work, increased investment in HMRC to pursue the tax avoiding activities of global corporations, and immediate legislation to introduce compulsory voting at all elections for those aged sixteen and over to ensure 'no taxation without representation.' Working people need fundamental change, and to be rewarded for their efforts. My administration will deliver this, and in a matter of months. Thirdly, as Prime Minister, I would instantly invoke Article 50 and begin the process of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union within two years. The people have spoken and it is right that that this process begins. I would cede full executive authority on the issue to my Foreign Secretary, who would be a member of the Brexit campaign. It would be up to them to negotiate the best terms of Britain's exit in accordance with the campaign promises they laid out prior to 23rd June. They can own the consequences of their rhetoric. Clearly the British people then gave an indication that, narrow margin or not, their preference was to leave the EU and reject David Cameron's limited reforms. What they did not indicate, nor have leading Brexiters adequately explained since the referendum, is what comes next. Advertisement There is a basic democratic problem here - the people have ceded authority over to a cabal of political adventurers who do not really want to wield it, nor do they possess a mandate to take the nation in any particular direction. Decades of carefully negotiated opt-outs from the excesses of the EU have been thrown away for a total vacuum. Having no plan for what comes next is simply appalling. The Leave campaign talked about 'Brussels elites' and the 'Westminster bubble' to stir up anti-EU sentiment, but there has been a quite shocking dereliction of leadership here. If I am elected Prime Minister I will give my Brexit backing Foreign Secretary total authority to outline our new diplomatic agenda. But there can be no more throwing up of hands - the Brexiters can set out the new geopolitical aims of Britain however they wish, but they must be held accountable. It is time for Boris and co to own their decisions rather than fiddling whilst our markets, business confidence, and wider economy burns. Politicians who have spent their entire lives talking about financial stability have thrown it up in the air on a whim. People did not vote for remain, but they did not vote for recession either. Jobs are about to be lost - not to Poles or Lithuanians, but due to the poor planning of Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage. We are seeing a collapsing pound, Scotland on the verge of leaving the UK, and the likely retention of many of the things, including the free movement of peoples, Leave professed to loathe. As Lord Heseltine put it, we have been sold a deceitful pup. And so I will be setting out an alternative road, and argue for a better deal within the EU than David Cameron brought home earlier in the year. I believe Remain tried to sell us a half-hearted lemon, a 'seven or seven and a half out of ten EU,' and Leave a pack of out and out lies - 350m a week for the NHS not least. It is a long established principle that the actions of one parliament should not bind a future administration. General Elections serve as a regular instance whereby the British people can reverse a decision they later regret. If I win the next General Election I will have a mandate to seek a new referendum on EU membership, no ifs, no buts. Advertisement I would then put newly negotiated terms on EU membership to the British people in a second referendum in the first half of 2017. This referendum will offer a straight choice with clearly defined consequences: the future the Brexit campaign lays out versus the changed EU I will deliver. Leave should welcome this - if they want a mandate to truly shape what comes next, let's have that debate. At present, the default position is undeniably that we leave the European Union. I don't think the likely outcome of a General Election - 35%, 40% or even hopefully more of the vote for Labour could overturn that on its own. Indeed, I go further: if the referendum vote for my deal does not exceed the 51.9% the Brexiters achieved in June then I will concede defeat, even should I gain a narrower majority for my reforms. However, should I lead Labour to victory in the next General Election, deliver proper change within the EU by working with our European partners, and then win a subsequent referendum to remain in a better union, I believe this will be in the interests of the British people and constitute a bigger mandate than the sorry mess the Leave campaign have left us with. People may talk about UKIP and what this means for the party game, I am more interested in what is best for the country. If Labour does not show leadership on what it believes in, what is the point of Labour? If you don't want that scenario, then don't vote for me. If we fail to get a 52% vote for my changes at any second referendum I will resign, and Article 50 will continue to play out. Should my side lose, Labour MPs will abstain in any votes to implement the new bills that would replace EU law. Leave can start preparing those bills whenever they wish - the public deserve to know what is around the corner. Living abroad is an incredible experience. It changes your horizons, your expectations, and who you are. For most expats, there'll come a time when for one reason or another, home starts calling. Here's what to expect when you book your one-way ticket back: Keeping in touch with friends and family may - weirdly - be harder. Being abroad you're forced to put aside a time that works for both countries and the weekly Skype becomes part of the routine. Without the impetus of being away you'll have to make more an effort to figure out how you find into each other's lives. Advertisement Don't be the "gap yah" kid. When you're living abroad, people want to hear what's going on, but when you're back, it's done and dusted as far as your friends are concerned. It's tricky when it's all you've known for a few years, but avoid constant references that people can't relate to. You'll get strange cravings. Seaweed, ramen, dumplings - takeaway will not fill that craving, and you know you didn't learn how to cook it! You'll be surprised how many things that were once new and different are now normal. Speaking of food... You will put on weight. When you came home to visit you had an excuse for eating all those things you couldn't get overseas. That last supper syndrome doesn't disappear overnight: your favourite cereal you missed? You'll finish the box. Those cute cake things they didn't have abroad? Gone. You're no longer an expert on your home country, from the great little restaurant that used to be down the street to which mobile contract provider to pick. This was one of the strangest parts about going back for me - I was supposed to gain the familiarity of being in my 'home', but despite regular visits, things had changed. The comfort blanket of familiarity that was supposed to make moving home so easy, wasn't there - and I definitely got ripped off on my phone contract! Advertisement You'll have to try just as hard to make friends as when you moved abroad. People aren't where you left them, and now they're used to you being out of the loop. It's up to you to make the effort to catch-up with old friends, and to find new ones. Some people and places will still fit with the new you, but not all. It feels like... going back, particularly if you return to the same city. This is the hardest bit to get your head around. Suddenly you have all these new experiences and you're used to the excitement of being somewhere different. Try and find new activities and get trips booked so you have new adventures to look forward to. It might not last. Full disclosure - I lasted just over six months back in the UK. Of four Brits who moved back, only one is still in London, with the rest of us headed off to Australia, New Zealand and a little closer to home for me in Munich. If you love to travel, being an expat can be a hard thing to give up. Once you've lived and worked abroad rather than just visiting, it becomes hard to go back to being a tourist. When you're thinking 'where next', make sure you're not picking your home country by default, and that you're confident going home is the right move. Advertisement Chris Ratcliffe via Getty Images There's a supposed curse that brings on days like the ones through which we are now living. It goes: "May you live in interesting times." Interesting times - the worst of things. Unpredictable, alarming, dangerous. A frightening change from knowing between dawn and dusk the rough template of our lives and the scope of our choices. Advertisement There are many reasons that the current state of affairs in Britain feels so bad. The appalling jump in racist incidents; the finger-pointing and blame as deep divisions across our country come to light. Half of the population feels as though its vote didn't count and the other is being told its vote isn't valid. There's another reason that it feels so bad: we've been told for years by politicians that our number one aim at all times should be stability. Stability is good. Stability is predictable. Stability means we can all book our holidays. Stability means everything is working. But it wasn't working. It wasn't working, and that's why we have ended up here. Stability in fact means the usual people with the usual amount of power making the usual decisions. It's overrated. And now that it's fallen apart, we have a chance to build something different. The Women's Equality Party launched this time last year with the aim of doing things differently by dismantling the structural inequalities that prevent women from fully participating in this country's economy and being able to fully thrive in society. Advertisement Now is our chance to do that. Indeed, we're the only people who can do that. The government hasn't got a plan, and the opposition parties are all looking inward to save their seats rather than outward to see the people. This Saturday WE are holding a mass rally in Manchester to start a national conversation about how we can build a better Britain and claim politics for our own. You'll all have ideas. You'll all have started those conversations. Come and be the change you want to see. Last Friday I talked to someone who voted 'Leave.' He was shell-shocked to have won the result he sought, but puzzled too to see plans for Brexit now being discussed. "I thought they wouldn't let us," he told me. "I didn't think they'd actually do it." Right there, that's the extent of voters' disempowerment. To go out and vote for something that you don't think for a moment will actually happen, even if the result goes your way. Advertisement It might sound shocking - even absurd. But if you're a woman in Britain, you've been voting to have a fair say for years without it actually happening. You've been voting in the hope of equal job opportunities and equal pay and affordable childcare. You've been voting for an equal chance at an equal education and the right to walk home alone at night without feeling scared. You've been voting to have your voice heard when our politicians think about how to run this country. If you're a woman in Britain, you haven't been heard for years. Now there's a chance for you to be heard. All of the old traditional parties will scramble in the coming weeks to say they look like the voters who have not been heard. All of the old traditional parties - currently splitting like amoeba when the public desperately needs unity - will tell you they look just like you. The people saying this will be the same people who have been in politics for years. They will be presenting what they say are new choices. But the end result they seek is a continuation of their power, not yours. I want to do things differently. I want an opportunity for millions of women to be seen and heard and be part of building post-Brexit Britain in a way that incorporates our needs. That doesn't mean having a few of the same politicians move into different positions. It means new faces and a wholesale rethink of the way we do policy in this country. It means an immigration policy that has equality and justice at its heart. It means universal childcare. It means protecting women's rights and jobs as we hammer out new trade deals. It means creating a politics that means something to ordinary women and men - not just a Westminster elite. Politics is ours, so let's claim it. Careers advice and work experience opportunities offered to young people as they progress through the school system have been ineffective for decades. With the issue receiving fragmented interest from successive Governments, schools have been ill equipped to provide the appropriate balance of guidance and experience that our young people need. As a result young people are leaving school with insufficient knowledge of career options, and worse, without the skills employers need most. Now is the time for this to change. To this day, I am staggered by the lack of meaningful work experience opportunities presented to secondary school students. So why is this? Evidence points to a lack of coordination between schools and local employers. Ofsted did an evaluation of this in 2012 and found existing links between careers guidance and local employment opportunities were incredibly weak. More recently, the 2015 CBI and Person's Education and Skills Survey found more than 75% of UK businesses feel the quality of careers advice is not good enough to help young people make informed decisions about their future career. Evidently, the issue is long standing and systemic. This issue can only be solved through collaboration. Educators and employers must have an open dialogue and work together to give young people the skills and insights they need to enter the world of work. It is for this reason that I set up the charity Believe in Young People (BiYP) in 2012. Our entire service is shaped around bringing together schools and local employers to deliver employer-led careers advice, and also to guarantee students structured, meaningful work experience. Advertisement To make our proposition attractive to schools, employers, parents and young people it needed to accurately measure progress. Our digital platform takes each young person on a personal journey to gather the skills they need for employment. The platform enables young people to hone the skills employers need around their standard curricular learning. To enhance these skills further, they also gain valuable work experience with a local employer, giving them the necessary skills, behaviors and knowledge to succeed in the workplace. Employability skills testing and assessment is carried out before and following work experience by teachers, employers and the learners so that progress is measured and understood. Our collaborative approach has taken 3,000 young people through meaningful work experience placements and helped them find work. For this success to be replicated across the country, there needs to be Government support and we look forward to the launch of their Careers Strategy. In December 2015, the Education and Childcare Minister, Sam Gyimah outlined that the strategy would be published within weeks. Then in January David Cameron promised to spend 70million on the Careers Strategy over the current Parliament. These are positive steps, but six months has passed now and no strategy has been published. We know the Careers Strategy will be implemented nationally in partnership with the Careers and Education Company, which will support schools in providing work experience through a Careers and Education Fund and an Enterprise Adviser Network. Whilst this is welcome news for us, these bodies have a great deal to achieve. Primarily, they need to change the perception of careers guidance within schools, especially among teachers, who have traditionally promoted higher education to students as the best route into employment. Secondly, the Enterprise Advisor Network should create long lasting relationships between schools and local employers, which will provide generations with the structured and meaningful work experience so gravely needed. We would like the government to consider other radical options, such as legislating for the provision of mandatory structured work experience placements for all secondary school students. Advertisement They want to destroy safe spaces for queer youth. And we will not let them win, Emily Chappell, owner of Old Nicks Pub, told HuffPost. After struggling with addiction and mental illness, Jayne Fuentes served her time, found a job and got her life back on track. But even though she'd been sober and crime-free for years, one thing dogged her: fear of being jailed or forced to do physical labor because she can't afford to pay the government. Jayne is among the scores of people who owe Benton County, Washington thousands of dollars in legal financial obligations (LFOs), which are fines, fees, costs and restitution imposed as part of a criminal sentence. For years, Benton County, in central Washington, has routinely assessed LFOs in amounts upwards of $1,000-- without considering the person's ability to pay. Those who can't pay were sent back to jail or ordered to pay $5 a day to toil on a work crew. This practice has forced Jayne and others to take from money needed for basic living expenses - for food, housing, or raising children. Advertisement They got relief June 1, when the American Civil Liberties of Washington (ACLU-WA) announced a settlement of a class-action lawsuit (Fuentes v. Benton County) against Benton County over its unconstitutional system for collecting court-imposed debts. Now, Jayne and others with LFOs no longer live in fear of being jailed or forced onto a work crew for their district court debts. Benton County quashed existing warrants for failure to pay and released everyone being held in jail solely for failure to pay. The Board of Benton County Commissioners repealed the resolution that had authorized jail or manual labor for failure to pay LFOs. "We are very pleased that Benton County has stopped operating a modern-day debtors' prison. No one should have to go to jail or perform manual labor simply because they are too poor to pay their fines," said ACLU of Washington staff attorney Prachi Dave. Under terms of the settlement, Benton County District Court judges must inquire about a person's ability to pay at any hearing over alleged non-payment of LFOs. Individuals will not be punished if it is determined that they lack the financial means to pay the LFO, and will be entitled to court hearings to seek reductions in the amount of their outstanding LFOs or a waiver of some or all of those LFOs. Any person facing a hearing over alleged non-payment of LFOs that could lead to incarceration will receive written notice at least 21 days before the hearing. Also, Benton County public defenders and prosecutors will participate in training on laws and procedures for the constitutional assessment and collection of LFOs. The suit, filed in October 2015 in Yakima County Superior Court on behalf of three indigent plaintiffs - Jayne Fuentes, Gina Taggart, and Reese Groves - said that Benton County's debtors' prison system violated the U.S. and Washington State Constitutions, which prohibit incarcerating a person for non-payment of court-imposed fines, fees, and costs without a meaningful hearing and consideration of alternatives to incarceration. The landmark cases Bearden v. Georgia (U.S. Supreme Court, 1983), State v. Blazina (Washington Supreme Court, 2015) and Smith v. Whatcom County District Court (Washington Court of Appeals, 2002) make clear that people may not be incarcerated for non-payment of court-imposed debts if their failure to pay is due to their poverty. Advertisement The courts agree: A person's freedom should not depend on their financial circumstances. "Across the country, counties and cities seeking revenue are using jail and forced labor to coerce poor people to pay fines and fees they cannot afford. This settlement sends the message that those practices will not be tolerated and must come to an end," said Nusrat Choudhury, staff attorney with the ACLU's Racial Justice Program. The plaintiffs were represented by ACLU of Washington attorney Prachi Dave; Nusrat Choudhury and Dennis Parker of the American Civil Liberties Union, Racial Justice Program; and Toby Marshall and Elizabeth Adams of Terrell Marshall Law Group PLLC. Note: Our accounts contain the personal recollections and opinions of the individual interviewed. The views expressed should not be considered official statements of the U.S. government or the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training. ADST conducts oral history interviews with retired U.S. diplomats, and uses their accounts to form narratives around specific events or concepts, in order to further the study of American diplomatic history and provide the historical perspective of those directly involved. During a 1986 protest in Santiago, Chile against the human rights abuses of Augusto Pinochet's regime, teenagers setting up barricades were arrested by a military patrol. What happened next to Rodrigo Rojas DeNegri (seen right) and Carmen Quintana is a matter of dispute, but in the end, Rojas was dead and Quintana severely burned. An official Chilean report claimed that Rojas, an American legal resident, and Quintana, an engineering student at the University of Santiago, were carrying Molotov cocktails which broke, setting them on fire. Quintana maintains that both were brutally beaten by the army patrol, soaked with gasoline, set on fire and dumped in a ditch. Rojas died of his burns and injuries. In 2015, seven Chilean army officers were charged in connection with the killing of the 19-year old Rojas and attempted homicide of the 18-year old Quintana. Advertisement Chile was in a state of political upheaval during this era. Mass protests demanding democratic reforms were commonplace and many erupted into violence. The U.S.-Chile relationship was strained. In Washington, some supported the containment of communism at any cost while others demanded that the U.S. challenge human rights abuses in countries such as Chile which benefited from American support. The incident on July 2, 1986 during which the teenagers were beaten and burned exacerbated these tensions. This account was compiled from interviews by ADST with George F. Jones (interviewed August 1996), Deputy Chief of Mission at Embassy Santiago, Harry Barnes Jr (interviewed April 2001), U.S. Ambassador to Chile, and Elizabeth Barnes, Harry's wife. Read the entire Moment on ADST.org. This account was edited by Jesse Berman. E. BARNES: It was 1986, and Rodrigo Rojas DeNegri was a photographer, an emigre from the Chilean coup who was now living in Washington, D.C. Rodrigo was anxious to participate and decided to visit his home country for the first time since his exile -- as his mother later said -- with "the idea of knowing his people, to find his roots. He was always dreaming of Chile." It was early morning in Chile on the second of July when he joined the protest - a group of young people setting up a barricade of old tires in one of the neighborhoods of Santiago. He'd also brought his camera and was taking pictures, when suddenly a Chevrolet truck appeared, spilling out uniformed men with blackened faces. Advertisement All except Rojas and a young Chilean woman named Carmen Gloria Quintana managed their escape. But Carmen stumbled and when Rojas returned to help her, the soldiers seized the young pair and began beating them. And then, using a flammable liquid, the two were doused and set ablaze. In flames and unconscious, wrapped in blankets, they were loaded into the truck and driven away. Workers wandering home that afternoon found them lying in a ditch. Horrified and frightened, they called the police. And only then, late in the day, were Carmen and Rodrigo taken to the nearest hospital. Since Rodrigo Rojas was a resident American, our embassy was informed. JONES: There were a series of occasions when we visited people in prison, usually people who had some connection with the United States in one way or another. Neither the Ambassador nor I went, but we sent an Embassy officer to visit them, and this was noticed and reported. Of course the most notorious thing which brought Barnes -- grief is too strong a word, but it certainly brought him enormous controversy, was in July of '86. There were some demonstrations in the streets of Santiago. Two Chilean teenagers, a boy and a girl, were intercepted by a Chilean army patrol. The patrol obviously suspected them of participating in the demonstrations. The girl may in fact have participated. But it's clear that the boy was simply there as a photographer. He was carrying a camera; he was an amateur photographer. At any rate, this patrol decided they had caught a couple of these communists who were causing all this disturbance, and they poured gasoline on them and set fire to them. The girl was badly burned; the boy was killed. Advertisement Unfortunately for the Chilean army, the boy was a legal permanent resident of the United States and had been attending a high school in Maryland, I think, with the son of Charlie Hill, who was George Shultz's personal assistant. This was the Rodrigo Rojas case. H. BARNES: We were in touch with the mother of the young man and also in touch with the young woman who survived. A couple of days later there was a funeral mass at the cathedral for the young man, and my wife and I went to that. Among the people who heard about it was then the senior U.S. senator from the North Carolina, Jessie Helms. Within four or five days he decided he would come to Chile and investigate for himself why it was that the, as he put it, "the American flag had been displayed at the funeral service for a terrorist." One of the worse interviews I ever had was with Jessie Helms and his staff. Essentially I got a grilling from him and his staff and I know my responses did not satisfy him. But what it did was to produce even more than what I already had in the way of support in the Congress, and the Administration was very good about supporting me. [From Helms' perspective,] Pinochet was a friend. He was anti-communist. He had overthrown a communist regime, the Allende regime. He was a good guy; somebody that needed to be supported.When we learned of his critical condition, I remember my husband's frantic efforts to get him transferred to the burn pavilion at the Hospital de Trabajadores. Those demands were obstructed by the doctors at the hospital where Rodrigo had been taken. Advertisement Harry and I were not the only foreigners at the funeral. Ambassadors and representatives from France, Spain, Belgium and Italy had come to the church to pay their respects and to demonstrate their repugnance for this crime. We remained after the service, waiting just inside the building where we could look out at the packed streets. There was little room for movement out there, only a silent, waiting crowd. Breaking an understanding with the church, an officer and a policeman forced their way into the crowd. Remarkably, the only disturbance was that the officer lost his hat, but our friend noticed that the police then withdrew. He presumed this was a signal, because almost immediately two trucks began to inch their way into the crowd, one vehicle decked with a water cannon. When the cannon fired, a blast of water flattened wherever it aimed, and those caught in the confines of that constricted area had nowhere to go. Then came the tear gas. You read about it - it doesn't aim to kill, only to disperse. But this crowd was trapped within those narrow streets as we were trapped inside our little room. Rodrigo Rojas was barely in his grave when Jesse Helms, the Republican senator from North Carolina and a friend of Augusto and Lucia Pinochet, arrived at the airport. The Senator had decided he would come to Chile and investigate for himself why it was that "the American flag had been displayed at the funeral service for a terrorist." JONES: As usual, Pinochet was determined to manipulate the occasion. A photographer got a picture of Harry in a room in which there was a big floral wreath from the Communist Party. The right wing's version of this was that the Ambassador clearly had declared his allegiance to the extreme left of Chile by going to this radical's funeral. Advertisement Both of these young people had leftist connections. That's why they had been watching the street demonstration, which had been organized by the extreme and near-extreme left. The funeral led to Senator [Jesse] Helms' visit to Chile shortly thereafter, a visit which he made totally unannounced. We learned from the Chilean Government that he was there; even the State Department didn't know. Harry sent a note over to his hotel and welcomed him to Chile and said he was at his service and asked if there was anything he could do. No response for several days. Finally on Saturday morning, he received a phone call from one of the Senator's aides saying the Senator would like him to come to the hotel and meet with him. So he went off to see him. Harry is one of the more unflappable people I know. This was one of the two or three occasions when I can remember his being visibly angry and visibly upset when he came back from that meeting. He was clearly treated in the most contemptuous manner. Helms and his aides had made up their minds that this was a left wing ambassador who had allied himself with left wing causes and was trying to undermine this noble government which was doing so much good for Chile. It must have been a very unpleasant interview. But there was a still more interesting follow on to this whole saga. A few days later, Bob Gelbard, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Inter-American Affairs, came down to Chile on a visit, and Harry took him over to call on the director of Chilean intelligence, who was an army general, and one of the very few political generals, the only one who would ever dare to discuss politics with us. He and the station chief had a good relationship, did a lot of sparring, but you could at least talk to this guy. So many of the Army generals you couldn't even get in to see, and when you got in to see them it was usually to discuss some military visit, some exchange program, and just that and nothing more. But General Gordon apparently had some sort of license from Pinochet (seen right) to go a little further than that. So he was a regular contact. In the course of the conversation he said," What is this I hear from Senator Helms about your having a Chilean Army report, a report of the Chilean Army investigation that allegedly establishes that it was an army patrol that burned the two teenagers?"I'm sure they kept stone faces; Harry's poker face was very good. But wild alarm bells began ringing because we did in fact have a copy of a Chilean Army report which had been obtained through intelligence channels. It is one of the very few times when I've seen a station chief absolutely pale with panic when he got back to the embassy because one of his very good sources inside Chilean intelligence for all he knew was about to be blown sky high. He could be taken away and tortured, shot, anything. The Ambassador of course got on the secure phone to Washington immediately. It turned out that the CIA had in fact briefed a staffer of Senator Helms about the existence of this report. Given his well-known publicly stated interest about these events in Chile, the agency thought he should be aware of the existence of this report in which the Chileans themselves had concluded that this lieutenant who commanded this patrol had on his own decided to terminate these teenagers with extreme prejudice. The staffer had of course briefed Helms. Who exactly it was who called Chile probably will never be known, because I suspect other staffers were told. Although General Gordon was very specific when he said Helms, I suspect it was one of his staffers who called. Helms' office of course denied that anyone had said anything to the Chileans, and this was a gross calumny and atrocious lie intended to besmirch his reputation. Advertisement E. BARNES: Helms, the second-ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, spoke with the voice of God. Known for his righteous and vocal adherence to certain issues - he was opposed to civil rights, to gay rights, to foreign aid, to modern art - that righteous wrath at this moment in time was directed at my husband. In this March 15, 2011 photo, students study at the African-centered Timbuktu Academy of Science and Technology in Detroit. Timbuktu has about 350 students in kindergarten through eighth grade and is one of nine Detroit Public Schools-authorized charter schools. The school districtas emergency financial manager is proposing turning the operation of 41 academically challenged schools over to charter operators to help cut into a $327 million legacy budget deficit. (AP Photo) Writing in The New York Times, Kate Zernike documents a charter school disaster being perpetuated on Detroit children and families. It is a story of phony "choice," not better schools. It is a warning of what can happen to education in the United States if the charter school movement is allowed to grow unchecked and unregulated. Zernike's opens with a focus on the experience of one family. Damian and Omar Rivera attended a series of Detroit charter schools as their mother tried to offer them a brighter future. Damian, the older son, initially was enrolled at a charter school across the street from their home. He earned top grades and dreamed of becoming an engineer, until he was accepted into a special program at the University of Michigan where he discovered he knew far less about almost everything than similar students from Detroit public schools. Ana Rivera pulled her son out of the charter and sent him to a Catholic school, where charter school A's suddenly turned into Catholic School D's. Damian is now a discouraged learner. Advertisement According to Zernike, so many national for-profit charter school chains entered the Detroit "market" that in some poorer communities "it easier to find a charter school than to buy a carton of milk." Detroit has a bigger percentage of students enrolled in charter schools than any U.S. city except New Orleans, whose public school system collapsed and was abandoned after Hurricane Katrina. The Detroit charter companies compete to attract students and government pay-outs by offering "cash bonuses, laptops, raffle tickets for iPads and bicycles," but the promise of a better education is illusory. There are many villains in the Detroit education debacle, but the main ones are a former Michigan governor, the state legislature, and of course, the for-profit charter school companies. The force behind the 1993 state charter school law was Republican Governor John "Free Markets" Engler, who not coincidently was an opponent of teachers' unions. Engler wanted schools that were publicly financed but independently run. In theory, choice would lead to innovation; at least that was his theory. Michigan decided to let virtually anybody set up charter school and actually paid school districts a bonus to promote the program. For-profit companies saw the law as their chance to cash in and they rapidly moved into the Michigan school market. Currently for-profit chains operate 80% of the state's charter schools, a much higher percentage than in any other state. The companies also became major political lobbyists in Michigan with support from some of the state's most powerful Republican Party donors. Market dogma produced all kinds of absurdities. In 2011, the state legislature ended caps on the number of charter schools. Michigan currently has over 200,000 fewer students than it did in 2003, but more than 100 new charter schools. Twenty-four of those new charter schools are in Detroit and 18 charter companies with existing schools that were performing poorly were allowed to expand or open new schools. Advertisement Because of pressure from lobbyists it became impossible to agree on a system for evaluating charter schools so the legislature decided to come up with a quality control system after the cap was lifted. The law actually eliminated the requirement that the State Department of Education issue annual reports that monitor charter school performance. It also granted for-profit charter companies special tax right-offs. Zernike quotes Scott Romney, a lawyer and board member of the civic group New Detroit. According to Romney, when Detroit went charter, "The point was to raise all schools. Instead, we've had a total and complete collapse of education in this city." Let's make sure Michigan and Detroit are not the future of education in the United States and that these policies can be reversed before more children are deprived of an education. From July 8-10, educators, parents, and activists will rally in Washington, DC for three days of action in defense of public education. Featured speakers include author Jonathan Kozol, Chicago Teachers Union President Karen Lewis, and Diane Ravitch. On July 8 there will be a People's March for Public Education and Social Justice. Save Our Schools is organizing a conference for July 9 to be followed by a July 10 Coalition Summit and organizing session. The program for the rally and meetings includes full, equitable funding for all public schools; safe, racially just schools and communities; community leadership in public school policies; professional, diverse educators for all students; child-centered, culturally appropriate curriculum for all, and no high-stakes standardized testing. Both sides of the Brexit debate would contend that our system of government is deeply damaged, and that especially the bond of trust between government and citizens has become imperilled. But what does it look like when government works the way it's supposed to? Quick to act, practical in its thinking, momentous in its impact? Look no further than the dispute about microbeads, the tiny bits of plastic making headlines all over the world for killing fish. The beads are used as abrasives and exfoliants in hundreds of toothpastes, face scrubs and body washes, and each use can send tens of thousands down the pipes and out into the sea. Advertisement In the US alone, some 11billion microbeads are pumped into the nation's waters every day. Although not toxic in themselves, they absorb harmful chemicals before being swallowed by fish, bringing the toxins into the food chain. A ban was first proposed in Europe in 2013 and has been supported by the governments of half a dozen EU countries, including the Netherlands, Sweden, Austria, Italy and - as of last week - the UK, so far to no avail. The wrangling continues as some countries and industry groups lobby instead for the ban to be voluntary. Meanwhile, an American ban has sailed unopposed through the notoriously partisan House of Representatives, been signed by Barack Obama and comes into force next year. Initially proposed by a Democrat, it went through the Republican-controlled House under 'suspension of the rules' - a set of measures for non-controversial legislation, and passed the Senate a week later by unanimous consent. How was it possible? 1. The bill's proponent kept it out of partisan politics Although the ban was conceived by the environmental staff of Democrat Frank Pallone and was proposed by him, it was carried through in collaboration with the Republican Fred Upton, both of them acting on the concerns of their immediate constituents. Pallone is from a coastal district in New Jersey and made his name campaigning for environmental protection, while Upton's district is in Michigan, where the Great Lakes had become the most prominent site for reports on microbead pollution. Advertisement Highly publicised studies by the State University of New York found up to a million microbeads per square mile of the Lakes, and debate on the topic was focussed there. Moreover, Pallone and Upton were in a position to make sure their bipartisan bill got traction: it fell under the remit of the Energy and Commerce Committee, of which Upton is the chair and Pallone is the most senior Democrat. 2. They got the influencers on side The team won the unlikely support of both the environmental and industry lobbies. While the environmental groups were natural allies, the main industry group, the Personal Care Products Council, backed the ban in the name of stability. That was because the alternative was an unmanageable hodgepodge of legislation at the state and county levels, each with its own definition of which microbeads were to be banned and its own timeline for removing them. Illinois - another Great Lakes state - passed a ban just as the federal ban was first proposed, and more than half the other states were considering them. So industry groups were happy to collaborate on and support a single federal ban that would be strong enough to satisfy the environmental concerns while giving them time to remove the microbeads from their production lines. 3. The public conversation worked the way it's supposed to By the time Pallone first proposed the bill, the momentum for a ban on what would otherwise be an obscure industrial ingredient had already been built. NGOs around the world had been campaigning against them for several years, and in 2013 the United Nations Environment Program had been convinced to support an international smartphone app that let shoppers scan the products on supermarket shelves for whether they contained microbeads. Advertisement That meant that by the time the ban was proposed, all the major companies had announced initiatives to phase them out. It also meant that the scientific evidence for a ban had already been collected. The studies carried out in the Great Lakes came to the attention to the public servants in Pallone's office through reports on NPR and other outlets, and they then contacted the academics cited in them. For Architectural Digest, by Laura Morgan. Photo: Jacopo Raule/Getty Considering her impeccable personal style, it follows that Olivia Palermo also has stellar taste when it comes to home decor. "Sometimes interiors inspire me more than clothing," admits the fashion designer (her Olivia Palermo + Chelsea28 clothing collection is available exclusively at Nordstrom), lifestyle entrepreneur, and street-style muse, whose mom is decorator Lyn Hutchings, of New York-based Hutchings-Lyle Interiors. "I learned from my mother that your home should evolve as you grow as a person, the same way your wardrobe evolves." Naturally, the jet-setting life she shares with her model-photographer husband Johannes Huebl provides plenty of opportunity for a multilayered approach to design. Read on for her thoughts on everything from incorporating color to entertaining at home. Describe your home in five words or less. Modern, Brooklyn, light-filled, loft. What are your design musts? If you're part of a couple, your home should be a reflection of both of you. I love lots of color and pattern, and Johannes has more of a minimalist European aesthetic--we have a nice balance. Advertisement What is your favorite piece of furniture? I have these fabulous Art Deco chairs that my mother gave me years ago. They've been with me in all of my different homes, and I reupholster them when I get bored. I'm a big believer in reupholstering pieces if you're looking for a little change. Where do you look for decor inspiration? Well, my first stop is Architectural Digest, but I also like to go into the D&D Building, sometimes by myself and sometimes with my mom, as well as the other New York showrooms to see what's on the floor. I'll also browse the websites and social media platforms of Kelly Wearstler and Jacques Grange. What's on your bedside table? I have leather trays from Smythson on both sides of the bed, where I keep my watch and everyday jewelry. I also have an old Links of London clock, one of the double-faced ones, which I don't think they make anymore. Most nights you eat dinner . . . We definitely go out quite a bit, but we also like to go to Eataly or Citarella and get a bunch of things to cook together at home. One thing I love about living in New York is . . . You're not restricted to one specific style. You visit friends' homes and see so many different aesthetics. You can adapt your decor to fit your environment. I think that's true of fashion as well--dress for what's appropriate. Advertisement When decorating a room it's important to . . . Figure out the overall direction of the home in advance, so that your spaces are fluid and connect to each other. You can break it down and do it over time and not rush it--just start with the color of the rug or the color of the walls and build from there. Be open to change, though, because nothing ever goes entirely as planned. Tell us about a time you successfully used color at home. I recently painted our office aubergine, and it worked out really well. The color saturates the space and adds warmth because there is so much light that pours into the room. How do you approach entertaining? I love to entertain. When we're home, we try to have dinner with friends. In the summer I'm always excited to visit this great little store I love in Capri called Cabana. I always bring back tons of things from there--glass decanters, nice tableware. But not everything has to be over the top. It's fun to incorporate inexpensive, quirky items, too. If you could own any work of art, what would it be? I've always loved Damien Hirst's spin paintings. Art is very personal--you either love it or you don't. Before you leave the house you always . . . Make sure I have my Mophie charger and my keys. I can't live without my Mophie. Once, at the airport in China, security didn't realize it was a charger and they tried to confiscate it. I was like, No! That's my lifeline! Fortunately, I got to keep it. Now I have the new model, and it's flat and chic and absolutely wonderful. More from Architectural Digest: Also on HuffPost: The Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors on Tuesday endorsed State Rep. Mike Carter in his re-election bid for the District 29 State House seat. Rep. Carter said, I am humbled and honored to receive the endorsement of the Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors. Realtors know how important the issue of property rights is to the citizens of Tennessee. Commissioner Sabrena Smedley, Board member of HCRAA and member of GCAR, said, I appreciate Rep. Mike Carter and all that he has accomplished in a very short amount of time as state representative. I especially appreciate his efforts in leading the fight to end forced annexation and getting legislation passed to stop this. HCRAA is the organization that fought annexation. Ron Tucker, chairmen of Governmental Affairs Committee for GCAR said, He is a true friend to the realtor community and a strong advocate for property rights. The urge to succeed becomes an obsession, but thousands of kilometers and waves still lie ahead of me. At times, I am overwhelmed by bursts of emotion, quickly suppressed by my concentration in the present moment. Solar Impulse 2 needs to be steered with extreme precision. I need to circumvent a bad weather front, jump over a threatening barrier of clouds, cross an area of turbulence, and repair a software problem that is disconnecting my autopilot and preventing me from resting. It is a tactical flight, very different from the royal pathway I was offered over the Pacific between Hawaii and San Francisco. There had been neither clouds, nor turbulence. This leg is a completely different experience. The first transatlantic solar flight will have to be earned. Nothing is yet won and it is too early to rejoice. The Atlantic - the ocean of all explorers - saw many sea and air navigators competing in the race to modernity. When Charles Lindbergh flew from New York to Paris, it was to promote commercial air transport. Then, he spent the rest of his life opening up airways and airports. For me, the symbol is the same, but the goal is different. I want to pave the way to a widespread use of modern clean technologies. This is what I have been dedicating my life to for 15 years and this mythical ocean may well allow me to do it. The landing in Seville is approaching. The same city Christopher Columbus set off from to discover the New World. But today, the "Old" and the "New" Worlds are no longer geographical continents, they are states of mind: the old state of mind of fossil energy, pollution and depletion the Earth's resources; the new state of mind of renewables, cleantech and respect for the environment. When I look at my propellers, turning days and nights on end, activated solely by the sun, I feel like in a science fiction movie. Yet, it is today's reality; the one I want to promote. I can see the old world awaiting me around the corner, but fortunately I am going straight! The arrival is magical. I am welcomed by the Swiss and Iberian colored smoke of the Spanish Air Force Team. After the landing, the press reports: historic first transatlantic flight of a solar airplane. However, this flight will really become historic if it contributes to opening the way to more clean technologies and renewable energies in our world. And this, only the future will tell... RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - AUGUST 22: Demonstrators march through the Manguinhos favela to protest against police killings of blacks on August 22, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Every year, Brazil's police are responsible for around 2,000 deaths, one of the highest rates in the world. Many of the deaths in Rio involve blacks killed in favelas, also known as slums. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) "Everyone for Biel. Justice, justice." This was the chant repeated by the friends and family of 11 year-old Waldik Gabriel Silva Chagas, all the way to his five-foot-long casket. It was surrounded by white and yellow flowers. We could only see his face. Waldik Gabriel Silva Chagas was killed on Sunday, June 26 by the Brazil's Metropolitan Civil Guard (GCM). Advertisement The slender black boy looked even younger than 11. He was shot in the neck by the GCM while sitting in the backseat of a Chevette. According to the GCM, the car had been fleeing a police chase. Nilma Silva, Gabriel's step-mother, said that the boy had gone to a local fair in the neighborhood with some friends. Regardless of the sequence of events, a single shot reached the car. It punctured the rear window, and hit an 11-year-old boy in the neck. "Nobody knows whether he was involved in any wrongdoing. But even if he was, is this what he deserved?" asks Nilma. "This is the last photo I took of him. I took him for a haircut and he asked me to take it," says Biel's father, Waldik Chagas, 37. Advertisement Many people came to Gabriel's wake, including curious bystanders and journalists. At the front of the wake at the Municipal Cemetery of Vila Formosa, a black man looked on in silence. Abisogun Olatunji, 34, a member of the Union of Collective Pan-Africanists, was there to show solidarity with the family. "Every 23 minutes, a black youth is brutally murdered in Brazil. This is ethnic cleaning as State policy. We need to confront this," Abisogun said. The Union of Collective Pan-Africanists is also in contact with the family of Italo Ferreira de Jesus Siqueira, a boy who was killed by military police in early June. He was 10 years-old. "What hurts the most is to see the lack of response from society," said Abisogun. "We also carry out educational work, spread awareness and work on self-esteem. But for it to work, we need to be alert," he said. Advertisement In addition to being active in the black movement, Abisogun is a history teacher in the municipal and state school system. In 2014, he was at a planning meeting at the school where he works, in the eastern zone, when he heard gunshots. The police had just killed a student in front of the school building. "I live in Itaim Paulista and I have a 13 year-old son, Ayodele. The other day, I wanted to eat some chips at night and I thought of asking him to go buy some. But then, it hit me. [I said] 'Stay here; I'll go as there's less chance of me getting killed.'" In 2015, 25 years after the introduction of the Child and Adolescent Statute, UNICEF reported that the number of homicides of children and adolescents in Brazil had doubled in 20 years. The majority of victims are black and poor children living on the margins of big cities, like Biel and Italo. In 2013, 10,500 adolescent murders were recorded: An average of 28 children and adolescents killed per day. Brazil is in second place, behind Nigeria, with regards to murders of people under the age of 19. Advertisement With Independence Day looming, we hear a lot about "freedom." The holiday is our national celebration of freedom and the word echoes through our consciousness like no other. But this year, I hope we stop and really consider the meaning of freedom. We need to, because mostly our national conversation echoes with shallow regurgitations of trite expressions. Most of these voices believe in an irresponsible absolute freedom, an unimpeded freedom to do and say and be anything. In fact, that has never been the case. Freedom is not absolute. Freedom is the essence of responsibility. Exercising freedom is risky. Those who exercise freedom often suffer consequences. The real heroes of freedom we celebrate on the 4th of July are responsible risk-taking citizens. Mary McDowell was a well-qualified New York City teacher in 1917. She had a degree from Swarthmore, had studied at Oxford University, and boasted a master's degree from Columbia. Remember, this was a time when the vast majority of people did not attend college. Few women held college degrees. McDowell had accomplished much. She was a twelve-year veteran teacher. Her record was exemplary and her evaluations confirmed that she was dedicated and effective. She was also a Quaker and a pacifist, though many testified that she never proselytized about her religion or her pacifist views. Still, as Dana Goldstein describes in her book The Teacher Wars: A History of America's Most Embattled Profession, McDowell's decision to exercise the freedom of speech and conscience had significant personal consequences. Advertisement With the advent of U.S. involvement in World War I, the school district demanded that every New York City teacher sign a loyalty pledge. That pledge required a declaration that the individual support the military policies of the national government, the president, and Congress, "making the world safe for democracy." It's important to notice here that teachers were specifically required to swear loyalty to the president and the Congress. Not even soldiers of the U.S. military were required to do that. Instead, members of the armed forces swore first to protect and defend the Constitution and then to obey the military orders of their superiors. Mary McDowell could not reconcile the loyalty oath with her religious views and she refused. In an administrative trial by the New York City Department of Education in May 1918, despite a host of support and testimony from the community and colleagues, McDowell lost her job. So did other teachers. The public applauded the move. The New York Times encouraged the Board of Education to "root out all the disloyal or doubtful teachers." Mary McDowell exercised her freedom of speech and conviction, but it was not without consequences. She is only one small example in American history. In 1765-66, Americans protested by refusing to pay the stamp tax. Local courts did not meet and thus it was impossible to collect a debt, probate a will, or record a deed of sale. Merchants and ship captains could not register a manifest, so ships sat idle in the harbors. No goods were shipped in or out of the colonies. Colonists exercised freedom--the freedom to ignore a tax--and many suffered the economic consequences. In antebellum America, thousands of enslaved men and women attempted the risky escape to freedom. Most didn't succeed. Some never survived the journey. Of those who did, most never again saw their family--spouses, children, parents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, or cousins. Many spent the rest of their lives one step ahead of the slave-catcher. It was a life without any legal status. Yet, they risked everything for the freedom to provide for themselves and make their own decisions, to be free of slavery's depravations. Freedom requires sacrifice, and it has consequences. Advertisement Every decade of American history has similar examples. The very opportunity to exercise individual freedom is a precious thing. It is the essence of our American character. It is the legacy of men and women who, in 1776, dreamed of a world based on Enlightenment principles: that every individual--not government, and not just a privileged few--is vested with unalienable rights including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The authors of the Declaration understood that the exercise of freedom had consequences. They risked everything. They girded themselves for the work ahead, pledging to each other, "our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor." When I was 13, at the Lycee Mignet, in Aix-en-Provence, France, my new friends told me I had to decide. Was I for the dream of a United Europe or against? "Oui" or "Non"? What you chose decided who your friends would be for the rest of the year. This was 1958. I was an English-born kid from New Zealand. I discovered my classmates were as passionate as our professors on this. Because as I gradually learned from our schoolyard arguments, what was at stake was Europe's first chance to debalkanize, become a community, put an end to what had been a European given for the previous thousand years: Suspicion of the other, the memory of old scores to settle, regular paroxysms of war. And death. Lots of death. Advertisement Today, the dream of a new Europe is still alive. Just. And this is what worries me: People forget how easy it is for Camelot moments to disintegrate. The Brexiters play carelessly with the inflaming of passions and the reviving of old prejudices. It has worked. Now Britain apparently wants Fortress Britain. Arm's length relationships. Suddenly, I'm thinking of my schoolmates, Novalone, Labriot, Cova. Of looking them in the eye. And receiving back a new, unspoken feeling: "You're not one of us any more." Why should I be surprised? Separations emphasize differences, whether they're divorces or countries or groups of countries. And like a crack in the road, differences always widen with time. Each side needs to emphasize its peculiar identity. You want examples? Let's look at the fate of societies that have given in to the easier option of splitting, rather than splitting their differences: North and South Vietnam. North and South Korea. Northern and Southern Ireland. The northern and southern U.S. states 150 years ago. Northern and southern Sudan. China-Taiwan. And maybe the most unnecessary tragedy of all, India and Pakistan, breaking up to replace their ancient unity-in-diversity with suspicion, competition and fear. Seventy years later, this has escalated all the way to the MAD (Mutually Assured Destruction) recipe of thermo-nuclear weapons pointed at each other from a mile apart. Advertisement Which is what is so magnificent about the European experiment. It goes against all of history, and is all the more beautiful for it. The idea was simple: Of creating practical, market interdependence - starting with the modest European Coal and Steel Community, right after the most ghastly war the world has ever known - to tie all of us former enemies together so strongly, economically and culturally, that if we attack others in the group we hurt ourselves, cut off our nose to spite our own face. As with siblings, being in a family doesn't mean you have to love everybody all the time, just emphasize the similarities, work on improvements, keep your eyes on the prize. You have problems with the EU? Make a noise! Get some change. Redeploy, don't destroy. A millennium of continental convulsions lies behind this European dream. We can't let Camelot fall apart for peevish reasons. And read history. You want out? Remember how 1930s Europe disintegrated into a charnel house in a few fleeting years. Pakistan? It is a fine country, but its separation from India was as damaging as is Britain's departure from Europe. Indeed, Britain is in danger of becoming Pakistan to Europe's India. What do we need? We need time to reconsider. What can we do? Four million citizens (and counting) have already signed the petition calling for a second referendum. Now somebody needs to tell London and Brussels to hold fire until we've all had time to work this out properly. Right now we're throwing the baby out with the bath water. And this baby needs way more nurturing before we decide its life is over. IN TODAY'S RADIO REPORT: US, Canada and Mexico sign major clean energy pact; New report finds millions of Americans may be exposed to lead in drinking water; Germany bans fracking; PLUS: LED streetlights are keeping the American Medical Association up at night... All that and more in today's Green News Report! Got comments, tips, love letters, hate mail? Drop us a line at GreenNews@BradBlog.com or right here at the comments link below. All GNRs are always archived at GreenNews.BradBlog.com . IN 'GREEN NEWS EXTRA' (see links below): Florida's coral reef system in rapid decay; Conservative to Fund Republicans Who Back Climate Change Action; Stinging Lionfish Are Invading The Mediterranean; Arsenic, Other Toxins Found At Three Georgia Power Plants; Coal Ash Bedevils Oklahoma Town, Revealing Weakness Of EPA Rule; Should Pacific Bluefin Tuna Be Listed As An Endangered Species?; U.S. Virgin Islands To Withdraw Subpoena In Climate Probe Into Exxon; In California, Study Finds Drilling and Fracking into Freshwater Formations... PLUS: Fossil Fuel Industry Ramps Up Anti-Divestment Strategy... and much, MUCH more! ... 'Green News Report' is heard on many fine radio stations around the country. For additional info on stories we covered today, plus today's 'Green News Extra', please click right here to listen! When The New Yorker's critic Pauline Kael was reviewing the screen adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's The Fox, she insisted: "If you are going to see a movie based on a book you think is worth reading, read the book first. You can never read the book with the same imaginative responsiveness to the author once you have seen the movie." This is tripplely true with any offering from Steven Spielberg. In fact, whether it's a tale for children or a Holocaust saga or a Martian invasion, once you've viewed a Spielbergian take, your memory cells are colored forever by his palette of colors. This will probably be the same with The BFG, an extremely faithful and visually majestic rendering of Roald Dahl's bestseller that has sold tens of millions since its release in 1982. The book was banned, by the way, in 1987 in Amana, Iowa, for its gleeful take on cannibalism, for supposedly being too mature for its intended audience, and apparently for teaching poor moral values. Advertisement If that weren't enough, The BFG and the rest of Dahl's oeuvre continued to be attacked along the same lines in the following years, plus a biography of the author was released in which he was depicted as quite a despicable gent. These incendiary brouhahas caused columnist Christopher Hitchens to pen a defense in the January 1994 issue of Vanity Fair. The famed curmudgeon argued that Dahl's detractors couldn't see the merits of a "good yucky tale ... [K]ids are unanimous. They want more [dog droppings]. They also wish for more and better revolting rhymes, sinister animals and episodes where fat children get theirs." (Nowadays, the author, who died in 1990, would no doubt have made a heavier youth a hero of his work. But then, since he was "despicable," maybe not.) Hitchens added, Dahl "conspired with children against adults" and was a "genuine subversive." The BFG, the book, certainly backs up that critical reading. No one in these pages is viewing mankind through rose-tinted glasses. In this world, nine 50-foot-high giants with such monikers as Childchewer, Fleshlumpeater, and Gizzardgulper are traveling around the world nightly and chowing down on the young and a few adults. Their tenth mate, the 24-foot-high Big Friendly Giant is a gentle chap who goes around collecting dreams and later offering them back to pleasant youngsters. He is also a vegan whose meals consist solely of the rather disgusting snozzcumbers. Advertisement One night, while in town, performing his tasks, a little orphan girl named Sophie spots him, which is a no-no. He immediately pockets the spunky, bespectacled lass to protect himself, and he takes her to his foreign land. "Human beans," as he refers to us, must not know about giants or they'll imprison these huge creatures in zoo-like structures ... and worse. Well, Sophie and the BFG hit it off, and they have some lovely chats and scary moments together because the carnivorous Big Bad Guys can smell Sophie and want to chow down on her. Also, our heroine, as much as she is having a fun time, is upset that her fellow "human beans" are being relegated to the status of easily swallowed popcorn. But what can she and the BFG do? If you saw the film's trailer, you'll know by now that Queen Elizabeth and helicopters are involved in solving the matter. Yes, the Queen and the copters are in the book, too. The late Melissa (E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial) Mathison's screenplay is extremely faithful to her source material that includes much of Dahl's dialogue and all of his plot points, but if my memory serves me correctly, she left out the most important chinwag between Sophie and the BFG: "Giants isn't eating each other..." the BFG said. "Nor is giants killing each other. Giants is not very lovely, but they is not killing each other. Nor is crockadowndillies killing other crockadowndillies. Nor is pussy-cats killing pussy-cats." "They kill mice," Sophie said. "Ah, but they is not killing their own kind," the BFG said. "Human beans is the only animals that is killing their own kind." Advertisement "Don't poisonous snakes kill each other?" Sophie asked. She was searching desperately for another creature that behaved as badly as the human. "Even poisnowse snakes is never killing each other," the BFG said. 'Nor is the most fearsome creatures like tigers and rhinostossterisses. None of them is ever killing their own kind. Has you ever thought about that?' Sophie kept silent. "I is not understanding human beans at all," the BFG said. "You is a human bean and you is saying it is grizzling and horrigust for giants to be eating human beans. Right or left?" "Right," Sophie said. "But human beans is squishing each other all the time," the BFG said. "They is shootling guns and going up in aerioplanes to drop their bombs on each other's heads every week. Human beans is always killing other human beans." He was right. Of course he was right and Sophie knew it. She was beginning to wonder whether humans were actually any better than giants. Advertisement Without this underlying message that we, "human beans," are more grotesque and less moral than the Brobdingnagian ogres, it feels there is less here than meets the eye, but what meets the eye is often so sumptuous, you just might not care. The children whom I questioned after attending a screening certainly had no qualms about expressing their love for the movie. Janusz Kamiski's cinematography has seldom been more breathtaking, while the cast headed by Mark Rylance as the BFG, Ruby Barnhill as Sophie, and Penelope Wilton as the Queen are all engaging. But for the more ancient of us, the film sags ever so slightly in the middle. It's as if Mr. Spielberg ran a little short on the wondrous, or possibly Ms. Mathison felt too loyal to the original text, or even that the Dahl Estate was acutely stringent about where this adaptation could go. Which leads us back to Hitchens and his own quoting from the text The Uses of Enchantment by the fairy tale expert Bruno Bettelheim: "There is a widespread refusal to let children know that the source of much that goes wrong in life is due to our very own nature -- the propensity of all men for acting aggressively, asocially, selfishly, out of anger and anxiety. Instead, we want our children to believe that, inherently, all men are good. But children know that they are not always good; and often, even when they are, they would prefer not to be." Advertisement Image source: PhotoDune Mace Yampolsky grew up on the wrong side of the tracks just north of Boston in Revere, Massachusetts. As a young child, Mace watched many of his neighbors run into trouble with the law. We've all made mistakes before: running a red light, failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign, forgetting to pay parking tickets. Some of us have even had a couple of beers and foolishly driven home. Many of us are lucky enough to pay a fee or take a driver's education course and move on. But for Mace's neighbors, small mistakes led to even bigger legal problems. "Many of the people I grew up with weren't able to help themselves," says Mace. "People accused of a crime often don't know what to do and say things that end up hurting themselves. I wanted to help." Worse, Mace says he watched how insurance companies took advantage of people injured through no fault of their own. The insurance companies would push people to settle cases for far less than they were owed. Lacking legal guidance, people settled- even though they were still injured, in pain, and unable to live a full, active life. Mace decided to do something about it. Advertisement Mace's passion for helping others drove him to study law. Today, he's one of Las Vegas' top defense attorneys, and his firm Mace Yampolsky & Associates has successfully defended hundreds of clients. Over the years, Mace has earned a reputation as one of Las Vegas' most outspoken, memorable and effective criminal defense attorneys. Recently, I sat down with Mace to learn more about his journey to becoming an attorney. As a digital marketer, naturally I had to ask a few questions about how digital marketing is transforming the legal profession, giving individuals in legal trouble immediate access to legal assistance. From his flamboyant personality to his passionate commitment to helping each and every client, Mace is nothing like what you'd expect from a defense attorney. Here are his fascinating insights: What drives your passion for the legal profession? I've represented lots of people for all kinds of legal issues. From my experience, I noticed that many individuals were being charged with DUI, these people are not "REAL" criminals. They are just people that for the most part made a mistake and had a couple of drinks. It seemed to me like many people would "just plead Guilty" to get it over with unfortunately they didn't realize that there were severe consequences that they just didn't consider: loss of license, an increase in insurance, adverse presumptions in custody cases and potential deportation. As I learned growing up, people accused of a crime often don't know what to do and end up hurting themselves and getting trapped in the system. I became a lawyer to help people navigate this system to a better life. Between smartphones and Google, people have immediate access to legal knowledge. This is an entirely different structure than existed even a decade ago. How have you adapted to digital trends? Advertisement You're absolutely right; it's easy to Google your way to just about any legal answer these days! But like WebMD, there's often a lack of experience or necessary background knowledge to really make sense of online legal advice. That's one reason why our website started offering a 24/7 messaging service. We also have live operators that answer the phone 24/7. I am always available for emergencies. Sometimes when clients were about to be arrested, I've been able to convince the police to let me appear in court with the customer instead of arresting my client. Once I was called right after a client suffered a severe accident. I was able to contact his family and make sure that he received proper treatment from the beginning, then met them all at the hospital. This reduced their stress level. I've often met clients at the hospital. This makes the customers less nervous and allows me to make sure they are treated properly in the ER. We live in a 24/7 world, and whether it's through my firm's website or phone, I believe in always being available to help. You've received some fantastic online reviews on multiple platforms. How important are do you feel these online reviews are when people select a lawyer? How have these positive reviews impacted your business? I think these reviews are incredibly important. What I say about myself is one thing. What others say is infinitely more important. If potential clients see that I've handled cases like theirs, it makes them feel more comfortable. When potential customers see the terrific online reviews, it significantly reduces their anxiety and stress level. It makes them more likely to hire us. What's the biggest piece of advice you would give a new law firm that's building its first website? There's an old joke that "half of my marketing is working, but I just don't know which half." In today's highly competitive marketplace, there's no room for guessing games. Advertisement Figure out exactly what kind of cases you want and what your ideal client looks like. Then write content for your website on a regular basis that attracts these ideal clients. Don't forget to promote your content! Getting your content seen by the right people is more than half the battle. Make sure you can track where your leads come from. Looking back, what is the one thing you wish you had known before you got started with your practice? I wish I knew I was going to have a thriving practice and do only the types of cases I like: DUI, criminal and personal injury. Lawyers that specialize can help clients more effectively. I handled divorce cases for about 15 years, and I hated them! Now, I'm much happier with my current focus. You are well known for being such a "character" around Las Vegas; how has this positively impacted your business? I have an ebullient and flamboyant personality. I'm not like every other lawyer. I make people laugh. I play the piano and harmonica. I've performed with many bands around town. The same qualities that make me entertaining also make me a great trial lawyer. My juries never fall asleep, and they never forget me! Advertisement Bottom line: Redesigning your website? Don't just make changes for the sake of newness. Here's how to find out what your users' pain points are so you can tailor your website accordingly. A. Approach People and Ask Them for Help We've gotten great feedback just from going into coffee shops and offering people free product in exchange for them spending five minutes clicking around on our website. - Lisa Curtis, Kuli Kuli A. Watch New Employees Visit the Site This is important: When I hire a new employee, I usually ask them to look through my site and navigate it. If they have trouble navigating it or struggle to find information, I can assume many new clients will do the same. - Ajmal Saleem, Private Tutoring Houston Advertisement A. Use Data Analysis When optimizing our company's website, we prioritize projects based on areas that underperform versus other areas. We can benchmark this performance with tools such as Google Analytics and MOZ Grading which give us tangible performance metrics that we can compare against our internal goals and competitors. Data and diligence drive all of our optimizations -- even our artistic direction. -Justin Moodley, LASANAN A. Perform SEO Research, Analytics Analysis and Conversion Rate Optimization As an SEO agency, we perform significant research to understand how and for what our target audience is searching, and then create a strategy to build the site structure and individual page content to match those needs. Analytics data shows which pages and content are performing well, and conversion rate optimization helps refine the on-site process of converting users into real customers. -Christopher Rodgers, Colorado SEO Pros A. Ask for Feedback -- Hire an SEO Company We are currently doing this now, and I have emailed 50 or so people from all over the U.S. and asked them forfeedback. We have also hired an SEO company. I'll do a bit of research myself along the way, but the feedback from my 50 contacts and ultimately what the SEO company says will prevail because they are the experts. - Ben Walker, Transcription Outsourcing, LLC A. Give Clear Calls-to-Action The biggest mistake we see our clients make is not giving a call-to-action to allow a visitor to their site to engage in some way. As simple as "sign up for our mailing list to receive tips, insights, coupons..." or whatever your offering is, it's a great place to start. The clearer you make your call-to-action, the greater the opportunity for a transaction along with key data points from users. - Nick Francis, The Franchise Group Advertisement A. Conduct Surveys If you feel your website is underperforming, a good way to gain valuable qualitative insights would be to poll or survey your current customers -- what do they feel to be the best and worst areas of the site? User experience shouldn't be for designers and creatives, but for our customers' ease of use. Ask them. They'll tell you. - Steven Picanza, Latin & Code A veteran leader within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced her immediate departure from the agency on Thursday, two days after it came to light that she had been offering guidance to a leading Coca-Cola advocate who was seeking to influence world health authorities on sugar and beverage policy matters. In her role at CDC, Dr. Barbara Bowman, director of CDC's Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention, has been involved in a range of health policy initiatives for the division charged with providing "public health leadership." She began her career at the CDC in 1992. Bowman's boss, Ursula Bauer, Director, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, sent an email to staff members after my June 28 story in this blog revealed the Coca-Cola connections. In that email, she confirmed the accuracy of the report, and while she defended Bowman's actions, she said the "perception that some readers may take from the article is not ideal." She also warned employees to avoid similar actions, saying the situation "serves as an important reminder of the old adage that if we don't want to see it on the front page of the newspaper then we shouldn't do it." Advertisement Bowman's exit was announced through internal emails. Bowman told colleagues in a CDC email sent Thursday that she had decided to retire "late last month." She made no reference to the revelations about her connections with Coca-Cola or any other concerns. Bauer sent a separate email applauding Bowman's work with CDC. "Barbara has served with distinction and has been a strong, innovative, dedicated and supportive colleague. She will be greatly missed by our center and CDC," Bauer said in the email. Bowman's departure comes at a time when several questions about Bowman and her department are dogging the agency, according to sources inside the CDC. In addition to the questions about ties to Coca-Cola, which is actively trying to push back on policies regulating or reining in soft drinks, there are questions about the efficacy and transparency of a program known as WiseWoman, which provides low-income, under-insured or uninsured women with chronic disease risk factor screening, lifestyle programs, and referral services in an effort to prevent cardiovascular disease. The departure also comes a day after the organization I work for - U.S. Right to Know - filed another FOIA seeking additional communications. The Coca-Cola connections date back decades for Bowman, and tie her to former top Coca-Cola executive and strategist Alex Malaspina. Malaspina, with Coca-Cola's help, founded the controversial industry group International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI). Bowman also worked early in her career as a senior nutritionist for Coca-Cola, according to sources, and she co-authored an edition of a book called Present Knowledge in Nutrition as "a publication of the International Life Sciences Institute." Advertisement ILSI's reputation has been called into question several times for the strategies it has employed to try to sway public policy on health-related issues. Email communications obtained by U.S. Right to Know through state Freedom of Information requests revealed that Bowman appeared happy to help Malaspina, who formerly was Coca-Cola's top scientific and regulatory affairs leader, and the beverage industry cultivate political sway with the World Health Organization. The emails showed Malaspina, representing the interests of Coca-Cola and ISLI, complaining that the World Health Organization was giving a cold shoulder ILSI. The email strings include reports of concerns about Coca-Cola's new Coca-Cola Life, sweetened with stevia, and criticisms that it still contained more sugar than daily limit recommended by WHO. The communications came as the beverage industry has been reeling from a series of actions around the world to rein in consumption of sugary soft drinks due to concerns about links to obesity and type 2 diabetes. A critical blow came last June when World Health Organization (WHO) Director General Margaret Chan said the marketing of full-sugar soft drinks was a key contributor to rising child obesity around the world, especially in developing countries. WHO published a new sugar guideline in March 2015, and Chan suggested restrictions on sugar-rich beverage consumption. Mexico already implemented its own soda tax in 2014, and many cities in the U.S. and around the world are currently considering such restrictions or disincentives, like added taxes, while others have already done so. The Mexican soda tax has correlated with a drop in soda purchases, according to research published earlier this year. Advertisement CDC spokeswoman Kathy Harben said earlier this week that the emails did not necessarily represent a conflict or problem. But Robert Lustig, Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology at the University of California, San Francisco, said ILSI is a known "front group for the food industry." And he pointed out that the CDC has yet to take a stance on limiting sugar consumption, despite the WHO concerns about links to disease. The email exchanges show that Bowman did more than simply respond to questions from Malaspina. She also initiated emails and forwarded information she received from other organizations. Many of Bowman's emails with Malaspina were received and sent through her personal email account, though in at least one of the communications, Bowman forwarded information from her CDC email address to her personal email account before sharing it with Malaspina. ILSI has had a long and checkered relationship with the World Health Organization, working at one time closely with its Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and with WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer and the International Programme on Chemical Safety. But a report by a consultant to WHO found that ILSI was infiltrating WHO and FAO with scientists, money and research to garner favor for industry products and strategies. ILSI was also accused of attempting to undermine WHO tobacco control efforts on behalf of the tobacco industry. WHO eventually distanced itself from ILSI. But questions about ILSI influence erupted again this spring when scientists affiliated with ILSI participated in an evaluation of the controversial herbicide glyphosate, issuing a decision favorable to Monsanto Co. and the pesticide industry. As individuals, organizations, and governments continue to focus on developing new solutions to help solve our world's most challenging problems, tech incubators have become an important tool to help spur innovation. Whether it's Silicon Valley's Y Combinator or Washington DC's 1776, incubators have become a necessary component for effectively fostering new startups and developing the next generation of tech talent. In many cases, incubators do not simply provide much needed financing and technical know-how to emerging entrepreneurs, but also serve as gateways for communities and individuals to engage with the world of tech and innovation. While incubators have helped launch countless startups and helped expose many to opportunities in the tech sector, the diverse nature of American cities is not often reflected in the tech industry. Disappointingly, a 2015 study found that only around four to five percent of the total tech workforce is African-American or Latino. On the financing side, only 22 percent of senior investment professionals are minorities, with women representing only 8 percent of senior investment professionals at top venture capital firms. When it comes to minority entrepreneurship, the statistics do not paint a rosier picture, with data showing that less than 10 percent of tech pitches are made by minority and women entrepreneurs. Advertisement While the current state of affairs regarding minority inclusion in the tech sector may sound bleak, we can rest assured efforts are being made to change the status quo. One of these efforts is Chicago headquartered incubator Blue1647. The brainchild of former investment banker and Northwestern MBA graduate Emile Cambry, Jr., Blue1647 works to foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development within disadvantaged communities. Since launching in 2013, Cambry has expanded his operation not only within Chicago, but also to St. Louis, Missouri, and Compton, California. Thanks to his innovative and impactful work in the field of tech minority inclusion, Emile has been named to the Ebony Magazine Power 100, to Chicago Crain's Tech 50, as a top 100 Innovator in Chicago by the Chicago Tribune, and as a Top 40 Under 40 Game Changer in Chicago. I had the opportunity to interview Emile to discuss his work, the tech industry, and his views on entrepreneurship. Hope you enjoy. Advertisement CG:Tell me about Blue1647's mission and why you decided to launch this venture? EC: BLUE1647 started out as a side project, while I was teaching at a university in Chicago. I noticed how there was so much emphasis in Chicago to make it a hub for technology development. There were reports of over a billion dollars being invested in the ecosystem for our downtown areas. I knew something intentional had to take place in the communities to ensure there wasn't trickle down innovation. Chicago is a very segregated city, racially and socioeconomically. In order to give everyone a chance, we had to have an outpost in the community, and be a beacon of resources to ensure opportunities weren't watered down because you're working with underrepresented folks in technology. CG: Much of your work takes places in under served communities. Tell me about the impact Blue1647 has had in these communities? EC: The impact of BLUE1647 in the communities of Chicago, and now St. Louis has been tremendous. It started off slowly, but as more and more success stories are appearing, the narrative is changing. In Chicago, it's not as much of a question as to whether blacks and latinos are interested in tech, now it's a question of providing financial resources to these opportunities to provide as many opportunities to as many people. We've worked with over 10,000 students in a short amount of time, and now we're seeing students in top-rated computer science programs, adults who are now working for tech companies, and others who are starting businesses. It's truly amazing to meet new people and have them share how our space has impact their lives, and that of their family. CG: Minorities are under represented not only in the tech sector, but also in the venture capital firms which fund many of these companies. How does Blue1647 help to bridge this gap? EC: Our first step is to provide a petri dish where blacks and latinos can come to build their companies 24/7. Having intentional space in the community is important, and one that doesn't take place often in this country. We imagined what Google in the community would look like, and have worked tremendously hard to provide that space. Now, we're bringing in investors to meet, mentor, and invest in these companies. And they're meeting in the community to do this. Additionally, we have had an opportunity to partner with venture funds, specially for the community, such as the Neighborhood Start Fund, founded by rapper/producer Lupe Fiasco and Di-Ann Eisnor, co-founder of Waze, which was acquired by Google. Advertisement CG: Communities benefit directly from the work your organization does. How important has local government been to helping you advance your mission? EC: Government can be an important ally in scaling these efforts. It truly takes an ecosytem to build the infrastructure necessary for tangible outcomes. In the city of St. Louis, the Saint Louis Agency for Training and Employment (SLATE), the workforce development arm for the city has been tremendous in connecting our efforts with getting folks employed. These sorts of partnerships are vital, if we want to have a broader base of impact, especially for those who have traditionally been left out of the innovation economy. CG: Possessing the requisite technical skills are important for many jobs in the tech sector, yet it is not the only factor prospective employers use to evaluate job seekers. How important are non technical skills in advancing a career in the tech sector? EC: We can't stress enough the need for soft skills and workforce readiness. If you get the job, can you keep the job? Does the company provide support and infrastructure for you to succeed? These questions are important and for our centers, we support those who are working to help them navigate through the system. And that's a testament to our tremendous staff, their subject matter expertise, and the culture we provide. CG: Before launching Blue1647 you had a successful career in investment banking and consulting. What led you to shift your focus towards creating a social enterprise? EC: What led me to shift is knowing that folks like me, don't traditionally take these paths. I get asked often why I would do this work, when I could get paid so much money doing other things. Well, it's part of the upbringing by my parents, but also, I feel I can truly scale impact, which is tremendously difficult to do. Every day is a challenge, and we are moving closer and closer to our goal. Advertisement CG: Launching an incubator is like launching any other entrepreneurial venture in that it requires a high degree of planning and comes with considerable obstacles and risks. What advice do you have for someone looking to build a social enterprise or business? EC: My advice to anyone doing this work is that it's much, much harder than it looks. Building a platform business requires the ability not only to navigate the business community, but interface with partners and collaborators of all types. If you can't communicate as easily downtown as you can in the community, you'll have challenges. But it only gets easier, after some growing pains. You will cry at some point. CG: Any parting words? The Chattanooga Heroes Run/Walk, presented by Erlangers Level One Trauma Center, will take place on Saturday, July 16 beginning at 8 a.m. The event features a five mile run or walk that begins on Amnicola Highway at the Naval Operational Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center, follows part of the path that EMS took last July 16 down Amnicola Highway, connects to the Tennessee RiverPark, winds through University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, ending on 5th Street just south of the Challenger Center."Last July 16, Chattanooga was changed forever following the tragic shootings at the Armed Services Recruiting Center on Lee Highway and the U.S. Naval Operational Support Center and Marine Corps Reserve Center on Amnicola Highway. One year later, supporters will participate in the Chattanooga Heroes Run/Walk to honor and remember those who lost their lives as well as the hundreds of responders who worked to protect our city," organizers said.Following the five mile run/walk, there will be a one mile kids run beginning at 10 a.m. through UTC's campus. Participants and spectators are also welcome to gather at the Challenger Center for an expo the whole family will enjoy.Participant and spectator busing begins at 6 a.m. across from Challenger Center at the corner of Palmetto and Fifth Streets.Volunteers are needed to assist with pre-run bag packing, set up, race activities, kids run, and post run clean up.For more information about the Chattanooga Heroes Run/Walk, how one can volunteer, or to register for the event, visit www.chattanoogaheroesrun.com The families of Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, Sgt. Carson Holmquist, Lance Cpl. Squire K. Wells, and Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Randall Smith have chosen to use the proceeds from this event to fund the construction of a permanent memorial at the Tennessee RiverPark.Erlanger officials thank the following for their time, manpower, and support of this heroes tribute: City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Rock Creek, and LIFE FORCE Event Medicine. You don't have to convince me that fear sells. I'm a marketing professional, well aware that I can sell you everything from hand sanitizer to Hummers by preying on your anxieties. Donald Trump, ever the expert salesman, has exaggerated threats in order to sell us a scaremonger's list of products: a wall to keep out Mexican "rapists and murderers," a ban to keep out Muslims he claims are all terrorists, and our very own strongman to Make America Great Again. When Trump, or any other salesman, offers you a lifestyle based on fear, don't buy it -- unless you prefer to live in fear and ignorance. Americans can instead choose courage and wisdom. Advertisement What do we hope to achieve as a nation? If we allow unfounded fears to paralyze and divide us, we can't hope to achieve much. Do you recall what President Kennedy said as the terrifying 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis began to unfold? He called on Americans to aim for a lofty target -- the moon, in fact. The term "moonshot" has been adopted by Google for its most innovative projects. A moonshot is ambitious and groundbreaking. It addresses a huge problem and proposes a radical solution. Today we face huge challenges, and we need national leaders who will call us to moonshot thinking, not an unfounded fear of our fellow citizens. President Kennedy inspired us with these words, "Our leadership in science and in industry, our hopes for peace and security... all require us to make this effort to become the world's leading space-faring nation." Today's Americans would thrill to a president who called us to become the world's leading climate-protecting nation. Our best and brightest would rise to the challenge of creating a new economy free of dirty, dangerous, old-fashioned fossil fuels. That freedom is within our grasp if we make it a national priority. Advertisement Right now we are lagging, not leading the world. We are squandering our chance to dominate future energy industries. Why not catch up and take the lead in the next decade? When America trailed the Soviet Union in the space race, President Kennedy admitted, "We are behind, and will be behind for some time in manned flight. But we do not intend to stay behind, and in this decade, we shall make up and move ahead." Less than 10 years later, brave American astronauts were the first men to walk the Moon. The Apollo Program led to astonishing benefits for science, technology and the economy because President Kennedy called on our collective spirit to achieve an audacious national goal "that will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills." Let's see what we can accomplish in a decade or less. A clean energy future is within reach, with priceless benefits at a relatively modest cost. To avoid trillions of dollars of potential loss from human-induced climate change, we need a president who will follow in JFK's footsteps with public investment in a clean energy moonshot. Our government allocates around $31 billion per year to biomedical research but, sadly, less than $2 billion per year for renewable-energy R&D. Great progress begins with a great goal, one that is bold yet feasible. Our next president must speed up progress in three key areas: improving energy efficiency, producing electricity from low-carbon energy sources, and switching from petroleum to low-carbon energy for transportation and heating buildings. Advertisement Congress must also fund research into breakthrough energy storage solutions, so clean energy technologies can be integrated into a modernized electric grid. California has set us an example with its own moonshot. The state is aiming for 100-percent carbon-free electricity within 10 years distributed by an interconnected microgrid system to achieve as much efficiency and local power production as possible, at the same time increasing reliability and resilience. Many Americans fear economic insecurity more than they fear climate change, even though climate change is one of our greatest threats, according to the Department of Defense. Fear not -- we can tackle both urgent problems at the same time. A president and a Congress who think big enough to unleash the talent of our people on the scale of the Apollo Program will similarly create millions of jobs -- with the benefits of safer infrastructure, better vehicles, and cleaner air. Let's get to work. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in the dark days of the Depression, said, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself -- nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts... This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously. It can be accomplished by ... treating the task as we would treat the emergency of a war." Like the crisis of the Depression, our climate crisis should be treated with the urgency of war. Our nation's worst enemies are paralyzing fear and division -- not immigrants. Ask your Congressman to join the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus. This November vote to defeat unjustified terror. Demand leaders who refuse to peddle fear and division, who instead insist on determination, innovation, and a plan for action. Advertisement Sometimes Europe feels too trodden, like the world's culture amusement park. Massive crowds and long lines plague important landmarks and museums, often filled with travelers more focused on snapping the perfect selfie than absorbing what's in front of them. Vienna is a seamless blend of history and modern life where it's hard to turn a corner without encountering exquisitely carved statues and iconic houses along with some of the world's best restaurants and yet still feel like you're uncovering a secret treasure. I noticed this two summers ago wandering through the blissfully uncrowded cobblestone streets near the historic opera house that lead both to cutting edge museums like the Albertina (which was hosting an exhibit on voyeurism as seen through the lens of Antonioni's influential '60s film "Blow-Up") and the MuseumsQuartier complex as well as the 13th century Hofburg Palace which sits pristinely in the center of the city. Walking down these stately streets feels simultaneously otherworldly and utterly contemporary. My hotel, an elegantly vamped up Best Western, sat just a short stroll from the Sigmund Freud Museum. Housed on the site of Freud's apartment and office where he hammered out his groundbreaking work for decades until the Nazis forced him to flee, there's a palpable sense of loss that hangs in the thick humid summer air as I walk through the spare rooms with the museum's director. All the most important artifacts like the famed couch are in the London museum. She has no qualms about this and even breaks into tears as she tells me they don't deserve the furniture. The chilling emptiness that couples with the near magical feeling of walking through rooms where modern psychology originated is not just the by-product but the intention of this intimate and thoughtful museum. Advertisement A short trip on the U-Bahn to the outskirts of the city reveals Gustav Klimt's villa where he lived from 1911 to his death in 1918. More than just paintings of his many muses, the house has been historically restored down to the color of paint on the walls making it feel like a portal into Klimt's hedonistically rich life. The Danube river traces through the city with ample walkways and stretches of grassy spots and sandy patches for sunbathing. It hovers around 90 degrees Fahrenheit throughout my five-day trip, but I'm told this is unseasonably warm. The city's jazz fest is in full swing and during one show at the opera house Al Di Meola complains repeatedly about the heat as dutiful stagehands try to reposition a large fan nearby. I get used to sweating as I travel on unairconditioned trains to unairconditioned restaurants and museums (as is the case throughout Europe in the summer). It's particularly balmy at Schonbrunn Palace (the childhood summer home of Marie Antoinette). After strolling through its massive and ornate grounds, it's easy to see how she'd be at home in Versailles. Walking through the endless maze of rooms, each larger than my whole apartment, I couldn't help but think how awkward it would be to live in spaces so large that would require effort and exercise to travel from one end to the other. As I breeze through the multiple ballrooms and bedrooms the size of Olympic swimming pools, I notice that there aren't that many people here. While every room at Verseilles is packed like a sold out show at the Bowery Ballroom, Schonbrunn feels pleasantly filled without being crowded. Advertisement As a New Yorker, I feel a little suspicious when places aren't painfully crowded and I kept wondering if there was some national holiday that cleared the city, but it's just the way of life in Vienna as it is in great Scandinavian cities like Oslo and Stockholm. If all of Vienna feels a bit like a palace, the Kempinski hotel is the embodiment of royalty. Walking into the marble saturated lobby feels like stepping back to a time when kings had real power. Across the lobby, the Michelin-starred Edvard serves classic dishes like sturgeon with caviar alongside conventional pigeon with bulgur, cherry and peanut. Pig's tail with polenta makes a nice in-between course. I had one of the best meals in my life at Steirereck. Sitting alone in the minimalist dining room, the experience was almost meditative. Large windows peer out into Stadtpark, which surrounds the pentagonal structure, and the muted grey speckled floor contrasts with an elaborate bread cart that's wheeled by each table. Three kinds of butter accompany the countless choices of loafs but the decisions soon wane as I choose a tasting menu. The first course is a refreshing plate of peas and kohlrabi with rice and daylilies. It comes with a little card that detailed the ingredients, preparation and little facts like how lemon daylilies had been used for millennia in China before being introduced to Europe in the 16th century. Subsequent courses included Chioggia beets with roses, porcini mushrooms, and verbana and a veal 'beusherl' with chive dumplings (chef/owner Heinz Reitbauer's take on an authentic Viennese stew with finely chopped veal hearts and lungs). A pan-fried amur carp showed off the local fish of the region and there was even a piece of Weiner schnitzel. The rest of the day is a haze, but I vaguely remember getting lost along the banks of the Danube and then unsuccessfully trying to find the right U-Bahn line before admitting defeat and hopping in a cab. Flag Of Ireland To begin with, Great Britain is part of Europe. This is a cartological fact which anyone with a grade-school grasp of geography knows. One is a subset of the other. Three countries (England, Wales, and Scotland) make up the island of Great Britain, and when you add in Northern Ireland (more on them in a moment), you get the United Kingdom. All are located on islands, but those islands are undoubtedly part of the continent of Europe. While Britain may leave the European Union political federation, they will always remain European. You might think I'm stating some fairly obvious facts here, but an astounding poll appeared in the midst of the run-up to the Brexit vote -- only one in seven Brits considered themselves "European." Even in the middle of a hard-fought and emotional political campaign, that's a pretty jaw-droppingly low percentage. Advertisement I have first-hand experience with this attitude, both from visits to Britain over the last quarter-century and from when I lived in Europe in the early 1990s. I'd listen to BBC radio in the mornings back then (for news in English) and encounter this strange attitude on a daily basis. News, for example was either local (British) or "...from Europe today...." In subtle and not-so-subtle ways, the British considered Europe to be a completely separate entity from them. This was back when the idea of consolidating Europe financially and economically was still very much a work in progress (the Euro wouldn't appear for years). Time and time again, the British essentially wanted an outsized amount of control before agreeing to any new political unification of Europe. Britain was only ever half-heartedly in the European Union, to put this another way. The best example of this was the fact that Britain never adopted the Euro at all, retaining their Pound instead. And even back then, the "Eurosceptic" faction already existed in British politics. Historians would no doubt ascribe at least some of this attitude to the "hangover of empire." Britain used to "rule the waves," and they used their military might to carve out the biggest empire of all -- indeed, one "the sun never set on." They haven't forgotten those halcyon days, to put it mildly. But the depth of these feelings differs across the four countries which make up the United Kingdom. In England, the feelings run highest, which is why the vote there was no real surprise. Everyone knew the "Leave" faction would do best in England, to put it another way. Scotland, however, is already on the brink of declaring its independence from the other three countries, and now may hold a second referendum on the issue. The Scots have their own long and storied history, and much of that history involves fighting with the English. If the economic fallout from Brexit gets worse (or continues without end in sight), the Scottish people may very well vote themselves out of the United Kingdom to rejoin the European Union as an independent country instead. Advertisement What interests me more, however, is what Northern Ireland will do. Because if Scotland bolts, Ireland may actually unite once again as well. I have no idea what the chances of this actually happening really are, but the least you can say is that the chances would certainly be higher if Scotland does decide to go its own way. This involves another short detour into geography, since most Americans are fuzzy (at best) on what these labels mean. The island to the west of the island of Great Britain (across the Irish Sea) is known as Ireland (or, more properly, "Eire"). However, the label "Ireland" is also loosely used to describe the Republic of Ireland, which is the part of the island that is independent from Britain. It is, in fact, now the centennial of the start of their successful war of independence (see: 1916 Easter Rising). There are six counties on the north end of the island of Ireland, however, which were retained by Great Britain when the Republic of Ireland became an independent state. These six counties (of the province of Ulster) became Northern Ireland, a country within the United Kingdom. The Brits essentially wanted to keep their heavy industry in Belfast (the Titanic was built in Belfast shipyards). Of course, there is more to it than that, and a full history of the Irish-British relationship would fill many volumes. But for now, picture two countries ("Ireland" and "Northern Ireland") on the same island. Northern Irish citizens are British, and follow British laws and use the Pound Sterling. Ireland (the Republic) is an independent country that fully adopted the European Union and uses the Euro. As of the moment, there are no border controls between the two entities -- a remarkable victory for peace, after all the guerrilla warfare over the past 50 years or so. Many in Northern Ireland are fiercely British. Most in the Republic are fiercely Irish. But they finally settled their differences enough for peace to take hold in the Good Friday Agreement (a lot of important history in Ireland has happened around Easter, for some reason), which was signed in 1998. Since that point, militant groups on both sides have lain down their arms and differences are now peacefully worked out through the political process (for the most part). But part of this historic agreement concerned the future of Northern Ireland. If, at some future point, a majority of people in both the Republic and Northern Ireland vote to unify, then that is what will happen. Britain will finally give up all claim to any part of the island, and they will be one single nation. When the accords were signed, it was assumed this wouldn't happen for many generations. A week ago, I still would have thought another generation's time would have passed before Ireland ever voted to reunify. Now, though, it looks like it may happen a whole lot sooner -- especially if Scotland votes for independence first. The possibility that Northern Ireland will vote to exit the United Kingdom is now within the realm of conceivability. The political calculus has shifted, in a big way. Previous to Brexit, the Republic of Ireland's best argument for reunification was one of shared history and ethnicity. Now, however, the Republic might have a much more convincing economic argument to make. The prospect of using Euros and enjoying all the benefits of being part of the European Union is a huge enticement that might look better and better to Northern Ireland, especially if the E.U. takes a hardline stance towards Brexit. If the British economy takes a big hit as a direct result, reunification might become a much more popular idea in Northern Ireland -- especially if the Scottish economy has already benefited from leaving Great Britain. There is already one sign (anecdotal, admittedly) that attitudes might have begun to shift. It seems there has been a flood of applications for Irish passports from the Republic of Ireland. Part of the Good Friday Agreement gave citizens of Northern Ireland the choice -- they could get British passports or Irish passports. Up until now, this has largely been an academic choice, since both passports guaranteed the same rights in the E.U. However, after Brexit they will indeed be different. Which is why post offices in Northern Ireland have been swamped with requests for forms since the Brexit vote. The real impetus for reunification might be border controls, though. Right now, travel is free and unrestricted (and without customs duties) between Ireland and Northern Ireland. If Brexit changes this situation (it'd be hard to avoid -- the border between the two is the only land border the United Kingdom has with anyone else in Europe, unless you count the Chunnel), then reunification might become even more appealing. The question of laws and governance would be a dicey one, and how it would be settled will affect the outcome of any referendum. The Republic of Ireland was for a very long time the closest thing in Europe (outside of the Vatican, at any rate) to a theocracy. The Catholic Church had an enormous influence over the Irish government, and this has only begun to change in meaningful ways in the past few decades. Divorce, for instance, was flat-out illegal until 1995 -- when a very close referendum changed the law. Abortion is restricted more than any law any state in America's Deep South has ever passed (saving the life of the mother is the only allowable reason, and even this isn't perfect -- mothers still occasionally die because abortions are so restricted). But the times, even in the Republic, are changing (to understand this swift change, check out this article written on Irish marriage laws). Ireland became the first country in the world to pass gay marriage by referendum, a little over a year ago. The holds the Catholic Church used to have over Irish politics are fast losing their grip, and the population is now the youngest in Europe. Meaning the populace might be open to their laws becoming even less theocratic, especially if that was the price to pay for reunification. Alternatively, Ulster could be given a large degree of autonomy from Dublin, and be allowed to operate under their own laws (they already have their own parliament -- another thing the referendum would have to address). Advertisement Again, this is all nothing but the sheerest speculation on my part, and I have no way of measuring how likely any of this will be. The reunification of Ireland would be historic, but even if Northern Ireland does hold a referendum within the next few years, it's impossible to predict how they'd vote. Feelings run deep, and the history of animosity stretches back centuries. An Irish reunification vote would likely be even more contentious than the Brexit vote or a Scottish independence vote. Such a vote would probably only happen if Scotland successfully paved the way by cutting ties with Britain first. The only thing you can predict with any certainty is that the people of the Republic of Ireland would likely vote overwhelmingly to reunify with the six counties of Northern Ireland (both countries would have to hold votes on the issue). A united Ireland, free forever from Britain, has been the dream of Irish rebels for hundreds of years. Brexit may actually have moved things one step closer to this dream becoming a reality a lot sooner than most would have predicted -- even last week. Chris Weigant blogs at: What is the first part of politics? Education. The second? Education. And the third? Education. Jules Michelet, Le Peuple [1846] In a time when some would think the most important issue to confront U.S. citizens is the question of who will be the next president of the United States, it comes as something of a surprise to learn that school funding and bathrooms enjoy the prominent place in the intellectual discourse in Kansas. School funding, it turns out, has a prominent place but bathrooms are a close second and may affect school funding. Sam Brownback has been the Governor of Kansas for the last 5 years. One of his promises, when first elected, was to lower the individual state income tax rates for individuals. In 2012, in fulfillment of campaign promises, he signed a bill that was projected to slash state income taxes by roughly $3.7 billion during the following 5 years. In addition to lowering individual income tax rates, it eliminated, among other things, tax credits for food sales tax rebates and credits for taxpayers who work and incur expenses for children, disabled dependents or spouses. Although the cuts seemed draconian, the governor promised state coffers would swell because businesses and individuals would flock to Kansas in order to benefit from the lower taxes. It was an attractive prospect and its only flaw was that none of what the governor promised came to pass. Instead of increased revenues as promised, revenues decreased. And they decreased so much that school funding had to be cut. As a result of lawsuits that were filed by those concerned about their public schools, the Kansas Supreme Court became involved, to the distress of Republican leaders in the state, including Governor Brownback. On April 4, 2016, the Court said that unless the legislature came up with a constitutionally valid way of funding Kansas schools, "the schools in Kansas will be unable to operate beyond June 30." Responding to the Court's order, on June 24, 2016, in a special two-day session, the legislature approved a short term fix that met the requirements that had been imposed by the Court. In the next session, the legislature and the Governor have promised to come up with a funding formula that will meet with the approval of the Court. School funding was not the only issue that kept Kansas schools in the news. Transgender students are another and that issue became prominent thanks to the Kansas State Board of Education. Advertisement The Board's actions were probably inspired by the failure of bills that had been introduced in the Kansas House and Senate, each of which was called the "Student Physical Privacy Act." The acts addressed the "natural concerns about physical privacy [of children and young adults] when they are in various states of undress. . . ." Among the stated purposes of the Acts were maintaining privacy, order and dignity in restrooms, locker rooms etc. at public schools and post secondary educational institutions. To help insure that the issue was properly addressed by school authorities, both pieces of legislation provided that, if upon entering a locker room or similar facility, a student for whom that space was appropriate, encountered a student for whom it was inappropriate (my words-not the legislature's) the student had the right to sue the school district or university if (a) it gave permission for the offending student to use that facility or (b) failed to take reasonable steps to prohibit the transgendered student from using that facility. The offended student could sue for up to $2,500 each time he or she encountered an inappropriately sexed student in one of those places and, in addition, was entitled to sue for damages "for all psychological, emotional and physical harm" the student suffered as a result of the encounter. The only downside to the legislation, as far as the offended student was concerned, is that the proposed legislation provides that a student only has four years in which to decide if he or she was offended by the encounter. Both Bills died in the legislature on June 1, 2016. Not everything was lost, however. Here's why. In May 2016, President Obama issued a directive directing that students be permitted to use the bathrooms that correspond with their gender identity, irrespective of what a birth certificate says. Offended by this directive and left on its own by the Legislature, on June 13, 2016, the Kansas State Board of Education voted unanimously to ignore the directive from the Administration, stating that local schools are in the best position to address the issues raised by the presence of transgender students in their schools. Its statement said, in part, that: "We are firm in our belief that decisions about the care, safety and well-being of all students are best made by the local school district based on the needs and desires of the students, parents and communities they serve." No one can be sure whether this approach in opposition to the administration will affect the state's federal education funding for schools. If it causes the Federal funding for schools to be reduced, the schools need not be concerned. They can be confident that Governor Brownback and the legislature will do whatever it takes to bring the funding back to where it was before the federal funding disappeared-a level at which the State Supreme Court may again threaten to close the schools. Christopher Brauchli can be emailed at brauchli.56@post.harvard.edu. For political commentary see his web page at http://humanraceandothersports.com WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 27: Former Virginia Governor Robert McDonnell speaks to members of the media in front of the U.S. Supreme Court April 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. The Supreme Court heard the corruption appeal from McDonnell, who and his wife were convicted of accepting more than $175,000 of gifts and favors from businessman Jonnie Williams, who wanted their help to promote his dietary supplement product called Anatabloc. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) There are Supermen (and Superwomen) among us. They work for the Department of Justice, and they have the unenviable job of prosecuting corrupt politicians. They must speak truth to power on a daily basis, trying to keep elected officials on the right side of the law, and the Supreme Court just threw Kryptonite at them in the long awaited decision in McDonnell v. USA. When Bob McDonnell was the governor of Virginia he and the First Lady of Virginia Maureen McDonnell accepted $175,000 in gifts and loans from businessman Jonnie Williams, a supplement -- or some might say snake oil -- salesman. Mr. Williams wanted Virginia's premier public universities like UVA and MCV to test his supplement derived from tobacco in the hopes that one day it would gain FDA approval. Advertisement A jury in Richmond, Virginia convicted both McDonnells of bribery and other crimes. The Fourth Circuit (no coddler of criminals) upheld the conviction. Mr. McDonnell who was facing jail time, appealed to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court just reversed the Fourth Circuit. The Court said that bribery must be an exchange of a thing of value for "an official act." The Supreme Court then went on to explain that "an official act" was too broadly defined by the government lawyers prosecuting the McDonnells. To explain, there clearly were things of value given and loaned to the McDonnells (including a Rolex watch for him and $20,000 in designer clothes for her). But Governor McDonnell merely set up a few key meetings for Mr. Williams. The Supreme Court held "[s]etting up a meeting, talking to another official, or organizing an event -- without more -- does not fit that definition of 'official act.'" At least in the eyes of the unanimous Supreme Court, setting up meetings for a constituent, even a constituent who is paying for the Governor's daughter's wedding, is not an "official act." And therefore without a true quid pro quo, there is no bribery. As Chief Justice Roberts wrote dismissively, "But our concern is not with tawdry tales of Ferraris, Rolexes, & ball gowns." The Supreme Court has defined down corruption into a smaller and smaller nub. This will make prosecuting bribery all the harder for brilliant Superman prosecutor Preet Bharara who has spent the last few years doing the yeoman's work of cleaning up the fetid cesspool which is the New York Legislature in Albany. And given the low opinion of the public of politicians who seem all too willing to bend over backwards for the richest person in the room, this case broadcasts entirely the wrong message to both elected officials and the businessmen, businesswomen and their lobbyists trying to woo them into action. Advertisement The McDonnell case follows a recent pattern of defining down corruption in campaign finance cases as well. As I explain in my book Corporate Citizen?, privately financed elections, invite self-interested spending by the wealthy, including corporate interests, to try to sway elected official who are reliant on them to get into office. Recall that Mr. Williams offered soon to be elected Governor a flight on his private jet while McDonnell was campaigning. By contrast, the Robert Supreme Court Citizens United and McCutcheon could not recognize greater access to elected officials by big campaign donors as "corruption." Rather in those campaign finance cases, the Roberts Supreme Court only considers quid pro quo exchanges (literally this for that -- like campaign money for a particular vote) as true "corruption." And in the McDonnell case, penned by Chief Justice Roberts, even quid pro quo has been defined incredibly narrowly. While we do not want prosecutors to criminalize politics, we also do not want the Supreme Court to give wider and wider berth for corrupt politicians to get away with using their positions of power to enrich themselves. And let it be clear, while they were Governor and First Lady of Virginia, the McDonnells were enriching themselves. And I predict that this is what the Supreme Court just did. The McDonnell case will make it harder for people like Superman prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald, who are looking out for the integrity of the system, and the good of the voter, to do their jobs. Patrick Fitzgerald, if you don't remember, was the prosecutor who did the noble thing for the people of Illinois of putting Governor Rod Blagojevich in jail. Advertisement --30-- Are we greens resigned to repeating a sad litany of the Arctic melting, wildfires raging, weather getting weird, of tipping points, new expressions of denial, and all the rest of it? Or are there any models of enormous beneficial changes at the last minute? I'm thinking of something bigger than the Montreal protocol that succeeded in shrinking the ozone hole and thus gave false hope that authorities would deal with other climate troubles. Short of U.S. entry into World War Two, which was occasioned by a surprise attack, the closest example that I know was a near-agreement at the Reykjavik summit in early October 1986. I happened to be in Iceland on those days, on my way, as a "citizen diplomat,' to Moscow. The meeting of world leaders ended suddenly, with anger and disappointment evident of the faces of Gorbachev and Reagan. However, the negative emotions were caused by the last-minute failure of a near-agreement to do something truly historical: to eliminate all nuclear weapons within a decade and thus end the standing threat of "mutual assured destruction." Advertisement I found out what had happened only when the National Security Archive released both the Soviet and U.S. "memoranda of conversations" recorded by official note-takers in the conference room. (To a remarkable degree, the two sets of notes agree.) Apart from note-takers and translators, the two super-power leaders were meeting with no staff other than the Soviet foreign secretary and his counterpart, George P.Shultz, the U.S. secretary of state. When Gorbachev and Reagan agreed to eliminate all nuclear weapons, Shultz, who was nicknamed "the Buddha" for his implacable demeanor, nonetheless blurted out, "let's do it." Because the nuclear system remains largely out of sight, many people do not realize how dangerous it's been. Well-informed U.S. observers such as a Secretary of State (Shultz), two Secretaries of Defense (Robert S. McNamara, William J. Perry), and a National Security Adviser (McGeorge Bundy), when separately asked why no nuclear war had occurred, gave the same answer using the same word, "luck." What is interesting about the Reykjavik Summit is not the failure, but the near-agreement on a step of world-altering scale. The agreement was foiled only by Reagan's insistence that research on his program to achieve a defense against nuclear missiles be permitted not only in the laboratory but also outside. Scientific analysis at the time concluded that such a defensive system would be very hard to develop and easy to fool with, for example, fake warheads. Advertisement Why did Reagan otherwise agree to eliminate all nuclear weapons? Did he feel there ought to be a defense? Was he certain that the Soviets would never agree to his condition? It's often forgotten that the summit came after three amazing events. In 1982 Knopf published Jonathan Schell's book, The Fate of the Earth, a call for nuclear abolition. Also in 1982, building on several years of widespread organizing across in U.S., the nuclear freeze movement, initiated by Randall Forsberg, held a huge rally in Central Park, the largest rally in U.S. history. In November 1983, NATO ran a war game called "Able Archer." The Soviet leader (Andropov) suspected the exercise was cover for a surprise attack on the USSR and was ready to launch a preemptive attack on the West. All this would have been observed by Gorbachev who was elevated to General-Secretary in March 1985.In Moscow in late 1986 I learned about another nuclear near-accident from a man who'd been at Khrushchev's elbow during the Cuban missile crisis. I am writing now not primarily about nuclear policy but rather about the equally difficult predicament of global warming. Of course it's easy to find differences between the two. Nuclear war ha always been a clear if hidden danger, while global warming seems like a future threat. Also, at the time of the Reykjavik meeting, the nuclear threat could have been settled by two leaders meeting around a small table in Hofdi House. In contrast, global warming is caused by greenhouse gases emitted all over the globe. However, there are also big similarities. In both cases, a powerful lobby has an economic interest in the status quo. In the case of the nuclear "triad" (bombers, missiles, subs), that lobby was (and is) what Eisenhower called the military-industrial complex. In the case of global warming, it is the fossil fuel industries, here and abroad. Just as our civilization depends on coal, oil, and natural gas, so we relied (and still rely) on the nuclear threat for our security. This retaliation system yields benefits unless it fails.(If it ever fails, we would die.) Advertisement After the Orlando mass shooting, my local paper quoted people in the street as calling it "unimaginable." Of course the slaughter wasn't unimaginable; statistically it was almost predictable. But we humans don't have a very good record of envisioning what we don't want to see or what our ideologies can't deal with. In extreme form this reaction becomes denial. Toward this behavior it's tempting to feel superior: our side honors the evidence, we support science. Yes, but what do we do about it? One of the organizations that has wrestled with this beast for years is the Post-Carbon Institute, started by Richard Heinberg and friends and located north of the San Francisco Bay Area. The Institute's new book, by Heinberg and his colleague David Fridley, is called Our Renewable Future: Laying the Path for One Hundred Percent Clean Energy. The enormous value of this book derives from three qualities: (a) it vividly imagines a positive end-state, skipping over the well-known dangers hat could be avoided by achieving this state, (b) it realistically reduces the challenges to engineering problems, explained in some detail, and (c) it forthrightly calls for sacrifice in our form of life with less per capita energy. "A point we have raised repeatedly," write Heinberg and Fridley, "is that possibly the most challenging aspect of this transition is its implication for economic growth: whereas the cheap, abundant energy of fossil fuels enabled the development of a consumption-oriented growth economy, renewable energy will likely be unable to sustain such an economy." Renewable sources won't replace all the services provided by fossil fuels. The Post-Carbon book deals with this not by re-imagining nuclear plenty (it calls the industry not so much unsafe and costly as "moribund"). Have we hesitated to deal with the lower energy output of renewables by focusing on the enormous harm that will eventually be caused by greenhouse gas emissions? If so, with what result? People are allowed to feel the crisis caused by global warming is far off, is somebody else's problem. Meanwhile, they worry about heating their homes, getting to work (and to vacations), having a steady supply of electricity, receiving goods from the "globalized" economy, getting food, and all the other tasks now performed with the help of fossil fuels. In any case, they feel powerless, especially in a system in which surveys show that large or very large majorities favor a policy but the government does nothing or not enough (for example, gun control, health care, cost of higher education, gross inequality). Can we draw a loose analogy between Jonathan Schell's book and thoughtful studies such as Our Renewable Future? Between Randy Forsberg's "nuclear freeze" in the 1980s and the work now of Bill McKibben and many others on global warming? Between the near-agreement at Reykjavik and a future success that would lead to a transition to a renewable energy regime? As citizen diplomats often said, "if the people, lead, leaders will follow." But it will take a mass arousal such as we've rarely seen, based on a vision of a successful transition. I'm reminded of a job offer at lunch in 1984 with a wealthy man. He wanted to endow and help run a foundation with a single goal of helping to end the Cold War, and to prepare a book in support of that goal. When I gently observed that the goal was very difficult, he replied, "I know it seems impossible, Craig, but it is necessary." Microsoft recently hit the headlines after revealing a $26 billion agreement to buy LinkedIn. In a digital age when most people obtain their social updates and look for work using a social network, Microsoft had been noticeably lacking in this area for some time. When a large corporation has no expertise in a rapidly growing area such as social media that represents a Hard Trend (a future certainty) going forward, it typically buys what it needs. The acquisition of LinkedIn is a perfect example of this strategy. However, there is much more to this story. In many ways, both Microsoft and LinkedIn had been trying to achieve similar goals in different ways for the last few years. By combining their capabilities, both will be stronger together than they ever were alone. Advertisement Microsoft is continuing to transform its brand and promote a different way of thinking about the value it can provide. Writing off the $7.6 billion Nokia acquisition as a failure was a brave but necessary move. Some of you might have read my article about this acquisition when it happened, saying that "Microsoft had acquired the past not the future, and it would be like a break slowing them down." Once again, when you look at the future using Hard Trends, invisible problems as well as opportunities become visible. Thanks to Microsoft embracing the Hard Trends of cloud computing, virtualization and mobility, anyone can now subscribe to a Microsoft service on an extensive list of iOS or Android devices. There appears to have been a realization that users expect to drift seamlessly from device to device and refuse to be shackled to any isolated program or operating system. Microsoft can expand its value to customers by finding new ways of providing users with everything they need in one subscription model. Office 365 has finally evolved from Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and a wide range of new tools are now appearing on a regular basis. For example, only last week, Planner (Microsoft's answer to Trello) was announced for all subscribers. Microsoft obviously saw LinkedIn's massive social network of 433 million business members across 200 countries as a mouthwatering prospect. This member (and related user data) land grab would also help align Microsoft products with corporate objectives and responsibilities. Advertisement Our needs have significantly evolved, and the age of the old PC/Windows/Office model is quickly dying. A company adding the biggest business community platform to its portfolio that is sold to large business groups is a fantastic move. LinkedIn has over 7 million active job listings and access to Lynda.com, which could offer new training services directly to businesses across the globe. Organizations could manage recruitment and training and even perform job interviews through the Skype for Business app that could soon be embedded into LinkedIn. LinkedIn has enjoyed tremendous success in encouraging its users to write on its platform, sharing insights and expertise that had never been available before. Could this open up another opportunity where business users of Office 365 will be able to tap instantly into the knowledge of people who have worked on similar projects? The catch is that all of these essential business apps or premium features will begin to get locked behind the Office 365 subscription model. It appears that Microsoft has finally woken up to the importance of having an anticipatory mindset and is working on pre-solving this future problem. There is a wealth of opportunities for both Microsoft and LinkedIn, but many are starting to wonder if this will kick-start others into action. Twitter now has 310 million visitors a month, but its growth has been notoriously struggling lately. Advertisement The lack of growth could make Twitter incredibly vulnerable, as Google's parent company could quickly acquire the struggling social network at a reasonable price from its bursting cash reserves. Twitter desperately needs the right parent to unlock the fantastic potential. Google has also struggled in the world of social after its much-maligned Google+. Maybe such a deal could represent another match made in heaven that brings out the best in both parties. The increasing sophistication of machine learning and algorithms is increasing a thirst for real-time data combined with a powerful real-time social element. It's easy to see why both LinkedIn and Twitter have become very attractive to the large tech sharks. In the past few years, Forbes' Under 30 Summit has become an annual staple for young businesspeople -- a place where entrepreneurial twenty-somethings gather to exchange ideas, opportunities, experiences, and connections. This morning, the event, which is expected to attract over 5,000 fresh-faced entrepreneurs from all over the globe, has announced its second round of speakers. The eclectic crowd in this year's pool of speakers -- triple the size of last year's -- is sure to make this year's Summit more diverse than ever. Forbes Editor Randall Lane Joining Massachusetts governor Charlie Baker, CEO of Breyer Capital Jim Breyer, and Model Chrissy Teigen -- all of whom were announced earlier this month in the first round of speakers -- will include Shark Tank alums, YouTube personalities, and gun control advocates. Advertisement As one might expect in a summit composed mostly of millennials, many of these speakers have found success on digital platforms. For instance, on the list are two YouTube sensations: 20-year-old Bethany Mota, whose YouTube channel spurred her rise to success as a fashion entrepreneur; and 30-year-old Bart Baker, the self-proclaimed "king of music video parodies." Similarly, plenty of founders and developers of mobile apps will be featured prominently. Notably, Brian Wong, founder of Kiip -- an app that allows advertisers to target users at key moments, such as level-ups while playing virtual games -- is slated to speak. Along with him will be Sam Chaudhary, a high school teacher turned entrepreneur whose classroom management software ClassDojo is used in 2 out of 3 schools nationwide. Food connoisseurs attending the event should have been delighted by the first round of speakers, which included the Executive Director of the Food Network's South Beach and NYC Wine & Food Festivals, Lee Schrager. Foodies, whet your appetites: the second round of speakers will bring you Celebrity Chef and Restaurateur Bobby Flay, who remains one of the best-known chefs worldwide since his 1994 debut on the Food Network. Forbes has made it clear that they won't be shying away from politics during this year's Summit. Along with both the governor of Massachusetts and the mayor of Boston, the Summit will feature Amani Al-Khatahtbeh, Founder of MuslimGirl.net, whose recent speech on representation of minorities and whitewashing in the media has gone viral on Facebook. Advertisement Touching upon similar themes of social justice and equality -- this time, in terms of feminism and female economic empowerment -- the Summit will include entrepreneur Sallie Krawcheck, former Citigroup CFO and Co-Founder of Ellevest, a digital investment platform designed specifically for women. Finally, attendees will hear from Colin Goddard, Senior Policy Advocate at Everytown for Gun Safety, a nonprofit organization dedicated to passing stricter gun control laws in the United States. Following this month's mass shooting in Orlando -- the most deadly mass shooting in U.S. history -- Goddard's appearance is particularly timely. In addition to the extensive list of speakers -- over 200 in total! -- Forbes will also create an Under 30 Village in City Hall Plaza as a meeting point for all summit participants to network, connect with speakers, eat, drink, and watch presentations and performances. It's certain to be an action-packed few days: the Summit will also feature an Innovation Showcase for startups, a Recruitment Fair with scores of employers, new product demonstrations such as breakthroughs in virtual reality, and more. Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images If you are old enough to grow up in the 1980s, you probably remember having a song from an album you love released as a single. It's not so much that a song you loved was recognized by the record company, but that you knew a 12-inch remix to that song was coming. Sometimes, that remix was a disappointing attempt to cash in on the remix craze and rip off the music fan. Other times, the remix made the song even more enjoyable. In the 1980s, almost every single was turned into a 12-inch remix that was supposed to enhance the song. However, it was usually an excuse for a record company to make more money and also a way for dance clubs to take advantage of songs that could transfer to the dance floor. Some of my favorite 12-inch remixes were "Dancing in the Dark" by Bruce Springsteen, "Angel" by Madonna," "She Bop" by Cyndi Lauper, and "Nineteen" by Paul Hardcastle. But my favorite remains "Take Me Home," by Phil Collins, which served as the final single from No Jacket Required during the Spring of 1986. Advertisement "Take Me Home" already stood out as the best track on the album without the remix, and I was surprised they waited so long to release it. "Don't Lose My Number," the previous single, was released during the Summer of 1985. It's quite possible that "Separate Lives," another Phil Collins classic released a couple months later, delayed the single. Collins also made an appearance on the show Miami Vice that spring, so perhaps it was an opportunity for the record company, Atlantic, to promote his appearance. I always thought "Take Me Home" was about suicide, but the hypnotic beat and distant (in a good way) vocals masked it into a more cheerful song. As a teenager who was having a lot of problems, I identified with the lyrics: "Take, take me home/Cause I don't remember/Take, take me home/Oh Lord, 'cause I've been a prisoner all my life/And I can say to you." According to Songfacts, Phil Collins told VH1 Storytellers that the song's lyrics refer to a patient in a mental institution. He was inspired by the novel One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest. From watching the video, many thought it was just about returning home after spending time in an unknown, but not necessarily bad, place. Advertisement What makes the remix to "Take Me Home" so mesmerizing is that it does everything a remix is supposed to do by keeping the charisma of the original song and enhancing it by making the hypnotic beats even more hypnotic and taking Collin's vocals and making them more prominent. It's not an entirely different song, like so many remixes of the 1980s that ruined so many songs. The enhanced hypnotic beat in the remix of "Take Me Home" places your ears inside the prison, but doesn't put you in a somber state. The enhanced instrumentation makes you long for something better, like Phil Collins does in the song. And the enhanced echo put in Phil Collin's voice makes you feel like you are at a live concert listening to the song and swaying your hands along. Phil Collins had some great songs released after "Take Me Home," but none of them produced a remix that is so mesmerizing. Still, Phil Collins remains one of the best musicians of all time and "Take Me Home," remix or not, is one of the best records ever made. ___________________ London--Emma Rice, formerly the joint artistic director of the superb Kneehigh company, is now the Globe Theatre artistic director and offering her first season after the departure of Dominic Dromgoole, who succeeded Mark Rylance. Judged by the productions of Macbeth and The Taming of the Shrew, she's happy to encourage some of the same offbeat creative notions she pursued with her previous group. She's quoted as saying that when she took the job, she immediately called Iqbal Khan to take on Macbeth, otherwise known to superstitious theater people as "The Scottish play." (An article in the program itemizes the reasons why a tragedy taking place in a bloody Scotland remains much more English in the writing than Scottish. Of course, it does. Shakespeare was English.) Rice was right about Khan's thinking up a few intriguing notions. Perhaps the most unusual was including not three weird sisters (Shakespeare never uses the word "witch") but four. And they do plenty with a large black shroud that keeps appearing, as sometimes manipulated by strings, to cover and uncover ominous objects. Advertisement The Macbeths of vaulting ambition are played by Ray Fearon and Tara Fitzgerald, whom Game of Thrones fans know. They make a hot-to-trot couple, until their guilt after murdering Duncan (Sam Cox, a nearly joke-y King Duncan) is eating at their innards. Fearon is an ideal-looking Macbeth, physical imposing--"physique-ically" imposing might be a better way of putting it. During the earlier scenes, when he encounters the weird dames and hears of his prospects, his rejoicing as the predictions materialize is fun to watch. For much of his performance, however, he gives the impression that he knows he's delivering famous lines and must take great care in presenting them slowly and surely. Fitzgerald is a brass-tacks Lady Macbeth from the beginning, seeing clearly what must be done and then doing it. That renders her descent into madness all the more disturbing. Her rubbing away those imaginary bloodstains is mesmerizing. Among the supporting cast, Freddie Stewart is a young, forceful Malcolm, and Nadia Albina has a funny attack on the Porter, who even gets around to telling Donald Trump jokes. ****************** Also at the Globe, Edward MacLiam and Aoife Duffin are the battling Petruchio and Katherine in Caroline Byrne's dark-ish take on The Taming of the Shrew. Nowadays, the Shakespeare crowd arrives at the opus primed to find out how a director will treat the women-as-inferior-to-men comedy(?!) in a post-feminist age. When the denouement arrives, and Katherine gives her speech about women's subordination to the male, Byrne meets the challenge with surprising ease, but her solution won't be described here. By the way, some of it involves the wedding dress Chiara Stephenson has devised, which possibly takes a worse beating than Katherine does during the sequences where Petruchio is demonstrating his strategy for the most effective shrew-taming methods. In 2016, they're certainly not pretty to watch. Advertisement Throughout, Byrne comes up with effective sight gags. For one, she contrives it so that Katherine and Bianca (Genevieve Hulme-Beaman in an adorably mope-y performance) are so adept at manipulating their father Baptista (Gary Lilburn) that they literally have him jumping rope. So chalk up one for the women against the men. ****************** It's impossible to write about Charlene James's Cuttin' It, at the Royal Court, without mentioning it takes up the subject of genital mutilation. Nevertheless, I didn't know that's where the 75-minute play was heading, and the offbeat title with its jaunty apostrophe wasn't giving me any clues. On the other hand, I have no doubt that the young women in the audience were prepared for the subject matter--but maybe not so prepared that at least two of them left before the harrowing end. Be warned. My situation meant I was lulled by the initial scenes into thinking that what I was about to witness was the developing friendship of two immigrants in England from Somalia. They're Muna (Adelayo Adedayo), who's assimilated with grit and gusto, and Iqra (Tsion Habte), who's still committed to her heritage. Both 15-year-olds, who are at the same school in a downscale neighborhood, feel slightly alienated among their classmates and express as much in a series of opening monologues. Eventually, they approach each other diffidently. The meeting occurs shortly after Muna decides that their shared background provides an opportunity to bring up the fear she's experiencing for her sister, about to turn 7 and likely facing the same terrifying mutilation she endured. What Muna doesn't realize is that Iqra, whose family has been wiped out and lives with a mysterious woman, firmly believes in the tradition. That's when, in James's unflinching play, the incipient bonding is jeopardized. Nothing further will be divulged here, other than to say Gbolahan Obisesan directs unflinchingly and receives equally unflinching performances from Adedayo and Habte in a play no one sitting horrified through will soon forget. ****************** The Jerome Kern-Oscar Hammerstein II Show Boat is generally conceded to be the musical comedy that converted the genre into a serious art form. Less frequently heard is an argument that the classic is also the greatest of the 20th-century musical comedies. All the same, a strong case could be made that it is. In fact, a strong brief for just that is being presented in Daniel Evan's production at the New London. Advertisement To be sure, there have been stupendous productions in the past, Florenz Ziegfeld's original 1927 production surely among them. But the Evans approach has to be up there with the very best since then. To begin with, there's the score, which is sung to consistently stunning effect by Gina Beck as Magnolia Hawks, Chris Peluso as Gaylord Ravenal, Rebecca Trehearn as Julie La Verne, Emmanuel Kojo as Joe, Sandra Marvin as Queenie, Danny Collins as Frank Schultz and Alex Young as Ellie May Chipley. Needless to say, it's very hard to go wrong with a show in which "Ol' Man River" (perhaps the greatest song ever written for an American musical and here sung by Joe and male chorus with profound passion) is immediately followed by "Can' Help Lovin' Dat Man," jubilantly delivered by Magnolia, Julie, Queenie and the joyfully shuffling company. Evans puts his own spin on a plot lifted from Edna Ferber's novel of the same name. Throughout, he intentionally plays up the racial strife Hammerstein was intent on portraying. Giving tweaks to Hammerstein's book about life on the Mississippi and then in Chicago between 1886 and 1928 he begins by bringing the entire cast on stage to sing parts of "Ol' Man River." Then he arranges the white players to face the black players. It's the first sign that here's a director who knows what he's about. Surely flashy choreographer Alistair David deserves some credit for the immediate confrontational look. And that's only for starters on a luscious set that Lez Brotherston designed and to which Tim Reid added projections, many of which feature newspaper headlines drawing attention to civil rights failures. Advertisement The Chattanooga Parking Authority has announced downtown parking meters will not be enforced (and need not be paid) on Monday in honor of the Independence Day holiday. Parking in an unlawful area or manner (bus or loading zones, yellow curb, no parking, handicap space, Fort Wood Residential District, etc.) is enforceable 24 hours / seven days a week. Additionally Bus Passes will not be available at the Chattanooga Parking Authority office during these times. For More Information, contact: Chattanooga Parking Authority at 423-648-4031 or visit www.chattanoogaparking.org. I've been dating my heart now, on and off, for years, ever since the days before it came of age and so did I. When you are little, your heart is every bit as wild and out of control as you are and for that brief blink of whimsy toddler time you are pretty much in concert together. You are Don to its Phil. And the harmony is as pristine as you can possibly imagine. The brain, during this rather slow but steady, I think I can, I think I can, maturation period, is basically the size of a baby molecule inside an actual molecule and that someday overcrowded section of downtown common section is for all intents and purposes a vast empty parking lot somewhere in Texas. Advertisement Ideas have yet to even hit the road. I remember how happy my heart and I used to be. I used to fly it like a kite, flying it proudly in the air, watching it loop and soar, showing it off to the world while daring it to fly higher and then higher still. I remember listening to its each and every word that was broadcast with digital quality in the primitive language of it's own beat poetry. And my, did it Howl. Impulse was the fuel of my life once upon then and my heart was my Leonard Bernstein conductor. I trusted my heart and hung on to its every word and suggestion. God I loved my heart then. It was so full of life. It seemed like its purpose was to continually throw me back into the deep end of the life pool, beyond confident that not only would I not drown but would float upstream for the rest of my life. I remember thinking that forever would last forever. I remember when the closing hours of a day was the saddest thing of my life. I remember how my life partner, my heart, directed to me towards the dopey bliss of everything small which made virtually everything and everywhere fascinating and so unbearably beautiful that to leave the point anywhere would reduce me to soul tearing tears. Advertisement My heart was my nanny then, who was in charge of bringing me to the play dates of my life. And it was also in charge of picking me up and taking me home so I could float in a vast ocean of bubbles and later pow wow in my ritual Superman pajamas with my parents, so I could, with eyes barely open, describe the incredibly fascinating minutiae of my life with all the gusto of an astronaut trying to convey you to what the earth looks like when you are not on it. In those early days of dating, my heart was my very best friend who I trusted implicitly. It was way too powerful and all knowing to, for even a moment, doubt it's influence. There was no man behind the curtain. Yet. And then I grew up. Physically my heart grew up right along side with me and yet in some ways, it remained, and still does to this day, infant sized and as 100% pure as Ivory soap. But like a couple who has been married for decades, we have long lost our luster, our passion and the sparing of everyday secrets. One day I woke up and decided: I'm in charge now and just like that my heart's importance was slashed and diminished and it began it's steady decline as its memory began to fade and its pulse became more and more faint, drowned out, no doubt by the cacophony of the everyday out there whose symphonic dissonance at once resonated and at times drowned me, beneath the surface, weighed down by the ankle weights of disappointment and despair. Advertisement My heart, today, feels like a quaint scrapbook project, always there, nicely ribboned and tidy, always ready to be opened and remembered, but usually ignored. The bigger you get the bigger all your distractions become and before you know it, you are estranged and in some cases divorced from your heart. Living far apart. It you do not pay attention to this along the way, sooner or later you will, like I did, implode with depression and anxiety and completely fall apart, splintered like chipper wood into a million razor sharp fragments that will lacerate your most vital veins with each and every dark thought. My loving shrink at the time, Mike Gold, who when I look at that name looks like My God (which he was) told me that depression was a crisis of faith and when you allow yourself to metaphorically die, then and only then, will the clouds part. And he was right. I just wish it didn't take me five years of floating in the dark, in a toxic sea of glass shards while wishing that I would sink to the bottom. Advertisement But the thing is, once you finally surrender to the void and allow yourself to literally sink, once you hit bottom you find that you are far more resilient than you thought. The bottom, after all, is where the Phoenix rises from. And so I did and so can you. Just. Let. Go. Because living somewhere in the deep, dark universe of nothing but concern, buried beneath miles of coral and sadness, is your still beating, very young Dory sized heart. It is waiting for you, like your after school best friend dog, whose tail is wagging like a cranked up metronome, ready to leap on you and kiss you until you are convinced that you are worthy of that kind of love. So my prescription for you is to start dating your heart again. It is never too late. Where people slowly decay and morph into their old age self, the heart simply does not. It will feel awkward and make you feel self conscious at first. It will take a minute to put your training wheels back on. You simply have to relearn how to first balance yourself before you can ride. Conservative Christians find themselves in something of a quandary with respect to this year's presidential election. Neither Donald Trump nor Hillary Clinton appeals to them, and that's putting it mildly. Both Trump and Clinton are positively off-putting to most mainstream evangelicals, albeit for somewhat different reasons. Given that most conservative Christians tend to vote Republican in presidential elections, this situation is much more of a problem for Trump and the GOP than it is for the Clinton and the Democrats. Without strong support from conservative Christians, Trump seems highly unlikely to amass an electoral-college majority. Indeed, the GOP's revival at the presidential level under Reagan and the two Bushes was built upon that base, combined with support from free-market conservatives, some of whom were religious and some of whom were not. What's wrong with Trump from the point of view of conservative Christians? First and foremost, most of them, like most voters generally, see Trump as the least religious of the major party presidential aspirants this year. His occasional attempts to sound religious tend to be awkward and unconvincing, and mostly draw attention to that problem. Advertisement That basic disconnect is made worse by Trump's back story, which is thoroughly unappealing to morally traditional people. He is the New York City native on his third spouse with a sometimes coarse public persona. All of that combines to reinforce a very negative stereotype of New Yorkers like Trump in the minds of conservative Christians. And then there is his shifting stand on the issue of abortion. Donald Trump has been all over the map on that highly sensitive issue. Today he is anti-Roe v. Wade, but he was not always thus. Pro-life voters are understandably wary about the permanence of Trump's current views on abortion rights, and that sows even more doubts in the minds of conservative Christians. Hillary Clinton is unappealing to mainstream evangelicals for somewhat different reasons. Even though she grew up in a morally traditional, church-going, Republican household in suburban Chicago, Clinton is viewed by conservative Christians as someone who left that world behind beginning in the late 1960's. Her husband's infidelity and her efforts to excuse that misbehavior, deeply trouble many evangelicals. Hillary Clinton's outspoken feminism, including strong support for reproductive rights, widens that gap with evangelicals, as does her support for marriage equality for gays and lesbians. She, too, is now a New Yorker, and also reinforces a stereotype in conservative Christian America about New York politicians as essentially libertarian in their social-cultural views. Advertisement All of this means that evangelical Christians are in something of a bind with respect to the presidential choice this fall. They may support Trump out of a belief that he will, despite his drawbacks, prove to be a force for good in the sense of advancing the conservative Christian agenda. This appears to be the view of Jerry Falwell, Jr., who has endorsed Trump. Another, more cautious, approach, is to wait a bit to see if Donald Trump can build more of a rapport with evangelicals as he campaigns in the summer and fall. A third response is simply to drop out of the election altogether rather than choose the lesser of two evils. Tampa-based college Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA), whose co-CEO was the chief operating officer of controversial Trump University, has emailed its employees regarding an article that Republic Report published earlier this week. UMA CEO Steven Kemler wrote to his staff (see images below) that Republic Report's article "presented an unbalanced perspective about UMA" and directed all employees to "please refer any media or other external inquiries" to an email address for a company spokesperson. As we reported on Monday, Ultimate Medical Academy's co-CEO, David Highbloom, was the chief operating officer of Trump University, while April Neumann, UMA's vice president for corporate alliance & career services, was Trump University's director of operations. Another UMA vice president was an intern with "the Trump organization," and at least one former UMA employee also previously worked for Trump U., which has been sued for fraud by former students and New York's attorney general. Donald Trump shut down Trump University in 2010. UMA appeared to be seeking to distance itself from Trump in a statement to me Monday that read, "To the best of our knowledge, only three of our hundreds of employees have worked for Trump University and none have worked at any Trump entity in the last five years." Advertisement Kemler's email indicating the employees should not talk with reporters echoes similar warnings to staff in the Trump University "playbook" that was disclosed in the lawsuits against the Trump school. The playbook stated You are specifically prohibited from speaking with any journalist, reporter, author, blogger, newspaper, or media outlet with regards to Trump University, Trump Organization or Mr. Trump... UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD A TRUMP UNIVERSITY TEAM MEMBER EVER SPEAK TO THE MEDIA OTHER THAN TO INFORM THEM OF THE APPROPRIATE CONTACT AT THE CORPORATE OFFICE... Immediately email Josef Katz media information including name, media affiliation and phone number, and cc April Neumann and Michael Sexton... No matter how much confidence you have in Trump University, you should not say anything.... Reporters are rarely on your side and they are not sympathetic... If a problem arises, immediately contact April Neumann. As I reported Monday, UMA, which offers programs in medical assisting, medical office assisting, and related fields and has been getting more than $150 million annually in taxpayer-funded student grants and loans, has faced numerous student and staff complaints about its recruiting practices. I also noted that UMA was a for-profit company but had recently been acquired by a new non-profit organization, in a transaction, whose key details remain undisclosed, that involved the largest owners of the for-profit company temporarily taking control of the non-profit and transferring some payments to the for-profit. UMA has 13,000 students, approximately 90 percent of whom train for medical careers exclusively online, with the rest studying at campuses in Clearwater and Tampa, Florida. Advertisement Kemler's email tells employees that the Republic Report article "was the first time we received less-than-positive press" and that the article "did not include coverage of the successful student outcomes and the great work we are doing to help students." Since we published our article on Monday, several former UMA employees have contacted me to discuss their experiences at UMA; for now I will say only that they have a different view of the institution than Kemler. Former staff from outside lead generation companies also talked with me about selling UMA programs over the phone to students who had provided their contact information to bait and switch websites that promised jobs, rather than slots in career colleges. According to the Department of Education's College Scorecard tool, just 42% of UMA's former students earn more than a high school graduate. Graduates of UMA, which generally offers lower tuition prices than some comparable for-profit colleges, still end up with an average of $13,224 in federal student loan debt. Kemler's email to staff also announces that UMA "is again accredited" by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) in addition to the troubled Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). This month, both the staff of the U.S. Department of Education and a Department advisory committee have recommended that ACICS have its recognition revoked because of its lax oversight of predatory colleges. UMA may therefore have dodged a bullet on accreditation, and might also have found a way around another federal requirement for continuing to receive taxpayer dollars. UMA is on a list, compiled by the U.S. Department of Education, of schools that come close to 90% of their revenue from federal money when Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs student aid is added to Department of Education aid; that total was 89.4% for fiscal year 2011-12. About 500 U.S. veterans are currently enrolled at UMA using G.I. Bill dollars. Under a provision of current law called the 90-10 rule, schools that get more than 90 percent of their revenue from Department of Education aid only can lose eligibility; DoD and VA money somehow counts as non-federal. UMA reported its federal aid take -- Education Department money only -- as 87.01 percent for 2013-14. However, 27 Senators have joined a bill that would start counting DoD and VA money as federal. If that happened, UMA could be perilously close to violation. But several years after converting from for-profit to non-profit status, as UMA has done, colleges are no longer subject to this 90-10 requirement. Advertisement I am a businesswoman living in Abu Dhabi--a vibrant city located in the United Arab Emirates in the heart of the Middle East. A few years ago at an International Woman's Day celebration, I had the privilege of hearing a 24-year-old Afghan woman named Shabana Basij-Rasikh speak. Shabana shared her story about what life was like living under the Taliban rule as a young girl. She explained how girls were not allowed to go to school, but her family knew education was important and went to great lengths and risked danger to make sure she received an education. She also spoke of her love for her country, and her desire to change it for the better. Shabana went to university in the United States and returned to Afghanistan to start an all-girls boarding school. She explained that she believed the best way she could effect change for the women in Afghanistan was to provide a safe place for young girls to receive an education. The school is called School of Leadership Afghanistan (SOLA). Advertisement I remember sitting in the audience that day being in complete awe of this young woman who was 18 years younger than me. I felt humbled and inadequate at the same time. I thought to myself that this young woman was really working to change the world for the better and had accomplished so much at such a young age. I heard her amazing story and was inspired to do something to help. One of my passions is working for women empowerment in this region. What better way to do this than to help to girls achieve an education, so they can be agents of change in their country and create inspiring stories of their own! So, I became an e-mentor for SOLA. This means that one hour a week, I meet with a student over a videoconference link to tutor her in English and other subjects. Sadly, last December the school had to shut down due to security concerns. The school asked the e-mentors to step up their tutoring to help keep the girls engaged and encourage them to continue their studies. This was challenging, as the network connectivity at some of the girls' homes was unreliable. For several weeks, my mentee was unreachable because of power outages caused by the destruction of a power sub-station. I am happy to report that the school has been able to relocate to a new building and has reopened. Advertisement I am now mentoring a new girl who is extremely bright and optimistic. She plans to study hard and return to her village to become a doctor, because there is currently no medical clinic in her hometown. Every week when I meet with her, I have a growing hope for humanity and the world where we live. I leave our sessions feeling inspired and motivated to work hard at everything I do. Here I thought I was doing something to help the school, but it turns out the experience actually gives me a weekly shot of inspiration and hope. I am reminded what a privilege it is to live in a beautiful, safe city, and how fortunate I am to have joined a multinational company that embraces a culture of giving back as one of its core values. One of the reasons I decided to work at Accenture is its focus on and commitment to promoting diversity and encouraging women to succeed. To learn more about Shabana's journey, view her Ted Talk. To learn more about the School of Leadership Afghanistan, visit its website A poster for the gun-control law support is left on the ground on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., June 23, 2016. REUTERS/Yuri Gripas In the final day of its term, the Supreme Court decided a gun case, while managing to sidestep the Second Amendment. In Voisine v. Unites States, by a 6-2 vote, the Court gave an expansive reading to the federal law prohibiting gun possession by persons convicted of a "misdemeanor crime of domestic violence." The majority held that the statute applies to the reckless use of force against a domestic partner or family member, even in the absence of a conscious intent to do harm. Writing for the majority, Justice Kagan gave the example of throwing a plate in anger against a wall near where your wife is standing. Justice Thomas was not pleased that the right to gun possession could be deprived for such a minor transgression. He filed a dissent accusing the majority of relegating the Second Amendment to a "second-class right." Although Justice Sotomayor joined his dissent as to the meaning of the statute, she did not join the portion of his opinion arguing that to apply the statute more broadly would offend the Second Amendment. Only Justice Thomas thought the statute raised a Second Amendment issue. It was the second time Justice Thomas had accused a Court majority of treating the Second Amendment as a "second-class right." The first was his dissent, joined by Justice Scalia, from the Court's refusal last year to review a lower court ruling upholding a state assault weapon ban. Advertisement One need not give the Second Amendment "second-class" status to recognize what should be obvious: by its very nature, the Second Amendment is a different kind of right. Why? Because it is a uniquely dangerous right. In 2008, in District of Columbia v. Heller, the Supreme Court cast aside established precedent and, for the first time in our history, recognized an individual right to possess guns in the home for self-defense. It is undeniable that exercise of that right exposes individuals, their families and the community-at-large to a vastly increased risk of harm. The fact is that those who exercise the Heller right have no assurance that a gun in the home will be used only for the salutary purpose of self-defense. Indeed, research shows that, for every time a gun in the home is used in a self-defense shooting, there are four unintentional shootings (often involving young children), seven criminal assaults (often involving domestic disputes, with women as the victims) and eleven completed or attempted suicides. Given that attacks with guns are far more likely to be lethal than attacks with other weapons, it is hardly surprising that the presence of a gun in the home increases the risk of homicide in the home three-fold and increases the risk of suicide five-fold. The increased risk from exercise of the Heller right also is borne by the community-at-large. Residents of the states with the highest rates of gun ownership (Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Wyoming, West Virginia and Arkansas) are more than 2.5 times more likely to become homicide victims than those in the states with the lowest rates of gun ownership (Hawaii, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Jersey). The more Americans decide to exercise the Heller right, the more deadly violence becomes. Advertisement Of course, it is possible for the exercise of other rights, particularly freedom of expression under the First Amendment, to create a risk of violence or physical injury. But if that risk becomes sufficiently great, the courts will deny the protection of the First Amendment altogether. The core exercise of freedom of expression is unlikely to pose a serious risk of physical harm, particularly lethal harm. The same cannot be said of the Second Amendment right. For this reason, it is misguided for courts to reflexively apply to the Second Amendment the same constitutional standards and reasoning developed in First Amendment cases. Given the uncertainty about the Court's future composition, it is not at all clear that the High Court will continue to recognize a Second Amendment right to have guns for self-defense, particularly since the Heller five-justice majority opinion is built on a historical house of cards that professional historians have denounced as "law office history." But if the Heller right survives the continuing attack on its false originalism, at least the judiciary should give the right its own unique jurisprudence. It is a uniquely different kind of constitutional right. The fallacy of the analogy between the First and Second Amendments is revealed in the Thomas dissent in Voisine. "I have little doubt," he writes, "that the majority would strike down an absolute ban on publishing by a person previously convicted of misdemeanor libel." Surely the risk that a person convicted of libel will inflict future injury to another's reputation by libeling again is transparently of a different nature than the risk created by allowing someone who has committed an act of domestic violence to possess a lethal weapon. Damage to reputation is simply not comparable to a gunshot wound. Big Ben in London and flags of Great Britain and European Union reflecting Brexit The United Kingdom is set to exit the European Union. Nigel Farage of the United Kingdom Independence Party had declared: "Win or lose this battle, we will win this war. We will get our country back." Average voters won both the battle and war against most of the nation's political, business, cultural, and media elites. The shock waves first hit home. Scotland's secession-minded government is likely to hold another independence referendum. Nearly two-thirds of Scots voted to stay in the EU, far more than supported remaining in the UK in 2014. Then loss of EU access was a prime argument against independence. Next time a majority of Scots may see no reason to stay. Advertisement Northern Ireland, which also backed remain, will be left in an even more difficult position. Sharing a separate island with the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland will end up in a separate trade system. Although the largely Protestant north is unlikely to leave the UK for the mostly Catholic republic, calls have begun in the latter for an exit vote. Both the Conservative and Labour Parties face bitter, internecine strife. Opposition Leader Jeremy Corbyn only tepidly supported the "remain" side, a position he was thought to privately oppose. The triumph of Brexit added to his parliamentary colleagues' case against him, leading to a leadership challenge. Prime Minister David Cameron, his authority dissipated, did not wait to be pushed. Although 84 MPs who backed Brexit had affirmed their support for him, his position was untenable and he announced his intention to resign. The rest of his government is likely to be swept away as well. But one-time favorite and Leave activist Boris Johnson abandoned the race after partner Michael Gove turned on him. There will be pressure for a new election with the change in premier. All the while the government will be attempting to manage the complex process of disentangling the UK from the EU. Unlike the EU, which makes people in member states vote as often as necessary to achieve its ends, London is likely to accept the result and begin to implement the non-binding referendum. The UK and EU must plan a process never before undertaken. Most important will be early negotiations over London's future economic and political association with the rest of Europe. Advertisement Other non-member European states have taken various approaches, though Britain might seek a status sui generis. The UK possesses the world's 5th largest and continent's 2nd largest economy, so Europe wants to trade with the UK as much as the latter wants to trade with the continent. The U.S., too, should welcome London as an independent trading partner. However, some Eurocrats, representing the political interests which dominate policy in Brussels, have threatened to retaliate against the British vote by making the UK's departure as difficult as possible. French President Francois Hollande publicly warned there would be "consequences" from Brexit. French MP Elisabeth Guigou opined: "We will need to fight the centrifugal forces, to show that we can draw conclusions from Britain's decision." In contrast, German Chancellor Angela Merkel cautioned against a "nasty" divorce. For no obvious reason other than personal pique President Barack Obama took a similar position, telling the British people while visiting the UK that they would end up at "the back of the queue" for free trade negotiations with Washington. However, afterwards Secretary of State John Kerry advocated a cooperative Brexit process. Turning the process into a punitive expedition would harm everyone involved. The impact of the vote will radiate across the continent as well. The UK already had the most opt-outs in the EU and Prime Minister Cameron won modest concessions from Brussels before the poll, while promising to press for additional reforms afterwards. Even that wasn't enough. Still the British voted to leave, making a dramatic statement to the rest of the EU's members. Some Eurocrats imagine that dissatisfaction with the EU is a uniquely English phenomenon. For instance, Politico's Tim King contended: "This referendum is primarily a domestic political fight." It actually is much more. Observed Raoul Ruparel and Stephen Booth of London-based Open Europe: "a number of other states attempted to piggy-back on the UK's reforms, but this was resisted by others for fear of 'reform contagion'." In particular, Hungary, Poland, and Sweden applauded some of London's demands. Advertisement But reform may be harder to resist in the future. Cameron's insistence on an opt-out from moves toward a closer political union resonates across the continent. Brussels last dramatically expanded its authority through the Lisbon Treaty, which was the Eurocrats' workaround after France and the Netherlands voted down a formal constitution with the same powers. Only Ireland held a referendum on the treaty, though it had to vote twice to produce a yes. Such is the EU's infamous "democratic deficit," by which the Eurocrats always seem to get their way, irrespective of the desires of more than a half billion Europeans. My Cato Institute colleague Marian Tupy pointed out that "the EU is undemocratic not by accident, but by design." This top-down approach appeals to those who use Brussels to impose unpopular views on member states. Gilbert Ramsay argued that the lack of democratic control shouldn't matter because "the EU isn't actually a state, but rather a regional cooperation organization with a lot of bells and whistles attached." But this "regional cooperation organization" is assiduously seeking to become a state, and to do so whether or not those it would rule approve. Thus, the British are not the only Europeans desiring to escape from the EU's smothering embrace. Czech Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka predicted that "debates about leaving the EU could be expected in this country in a few years, too." A majority of French and Italians and plurality of Danes and Swedes told pollsters that they want a similar vote. An astonishing 71 percent of Greeks and 61 percent of French have a negative view of the EU. Disapproval rates run in the high 40s in Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. Continent-wide only 37 percent of Europeans have a positive opinion of the EU. Even in countries with a continuing positive majority, such as Italy, the numbers are down. And strong pluralities in most states polled favor returning more powers to national governments. Moreover, populist and nationalist parties are likely to make EU membership an issue in upcoming elections. The political center has fragmented in Spain, which is voting tomorrow. The continent's other three most important countries, France, Germany, and Italy, will hold elections within two years. The National Front's Marine Le Pen said she would call an exit referendum if elected president. Germany's two historically dominant parties combined have fallen under 50 percent support while a Euroskeptic third party has broken into double digits in state elections. Rome elected a mayor from the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, begun by a comedian, despite the prime minister's best efforts. The hard nationalist right barely missed winning the presidency in Austria. Euroskeptic parties are in government or bidding for power in Finland, the Netherlands, and even Sweden. The Dutch recently voted against an EU association treaty with Ukraine and populist Geert Wilders advocates a poll on leaving the EU. Economic hardship also has elevated Euroskeptics of varying degrees on the left in Greece and Portugal, and may do so in Spain as well. In Hungary and Poland autocratic, traditionalist conservative governments often find themselves at odds with the EU. The Hungarian prime minister plans to hold a referendum on EU migrant quotas. The Slovak government also complains of EU dictates. Advertisement Moreover, none of the seven nations formally committed to joining the 19-member Euro zone (the UK and Denmark gained a currency opt-outs when the Euro was adopted) fulfill the requirements despite their obligation to do so. All appear to be going nowhere fast. Although further expansion remains possible, Greece's travails have strengthened popular resistance. The Brexit vote will exacerbate all of these trends. So too the inevitable indirect impacts of a British departure: enhanced German influence and reduced (classical) liberal influence against economic intervention. Although there will be no mass exodus from the EU, a couple more nations could depart, further diminishing the reality of the "European Union." Moreover, other governments are likely to push to regain authority or at least resist any further accretions of power to Brussels. The objective of ever greater political unity appears dead. Despite the constant incantation of "more Europe" and "European solidarity" in response to virtually every problem, the continent is fracturing, not uniting. Indeed, the migrant crisis has destroyed much of the European consensus that took decades to build. Last August seven of ten Europeans declared that the continent was moving in the wrong direction. Obviously something has gone badly wrong. Karel Schwarzenberg, onetime Czech foreign minister, said "We in Europe have had the great opportunity over the last half-century to create a sense of common identity and interest--why throw that away?" Because a lot of people obviously aren't pleased with the identity created and how it is enforced. Some European leaders remain oblivious. There was strong resistance in Brussels to Cameron's reform proposals as well as other nations' attempts to win similar concessions. EU Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos recently argued "What we need in 2016 is more trust, more solidarity, more responsibility, more cooperation, more Union, more Europe." Europeans, he added, "can only move forward collectively and United." Financial Times columnist Wolfgang Muenchau argued that to abandon the objective of an ever-closer compact "would render absurd the whole idea of a European Union." Yet ever fewer Europeans appear to desire this union. Advertisement In contrast, Donald Tusk, one of the EU's three (!) different presidents--heading the European Council--admitted that "we must take a long hard look on the future of the Union" since it is evident that "ordinary people, the citizens of Europe, do not share our Euro-enthusiasm." France's ambassador to America, Gerard Araud, argued that "business as usual" is impossible: "Reform or die!" Germany's finance minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble, said European peoples would view it as "crazy" to pursue further integration in response to Brexit. What the EU desperately needs is a true "reform contagion." If the shock of Brexit isn't enough to get the Eurocrats' attention, nothing will. The alternative to continuing continental consolidation would be genuine national cooperation, with rules limited to issues which member governments cannot manage. Admitted Jean-Claude Juncker, another of the EU's presidents (of the European Commission): the EU is involved in "too many domains" where members "are better placed to take action." The result, explained a Eurocrat who helped create the problem, is too much regulation and interference. Painful as it would be to Brussels in light of Brexit, the EU should move "in a 'British' direction," argued Vernon Bogdanor of King's College London. At least the organization could allow multiple levels of integration, with different requirements for different states. Most important, instead of attempting to circumvent popular approval for the "European Project," Eurocrats should make their case for change and abide by the voters' decisions. That could result in what British Justice Secretary and Brexit advocate Gove called "the democratic liberation of a whole continent." Otherwise, those most committed to a united Europe risk being the greatest losers. "The specter of a breakup is haunting Europe," warned Tusk. Americans also should take note of Brexit. After all, in the telling of Matt Ridley, a member of Britain's House of Lords, Brussels sounds a lot like we know Washington to be: its corridors "are crawling with lobbyists for big companies, big banks and big environmental pressure groups seeking rules that work as barriers to entry for smaller firms and newer ideas." However, the British just demonstrated that the people can resist the Leviathan state. Perhaps a similar campaign could be launched in the U.S. A movement against turning ever more money and authority over to a distant capital largely disconnected from the people it so enthusiastically attempts to rule. We could call it "Amexit." Advertisement Members of the media run out of the Supreme Court in Washington, Thursday, June 23, 2016, to deliver court decisions. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Before it adjourned for the summer in late June, the Supreme Court issued a series of important decisions, or non-decisions, on affirmative action, immigration, abortion, and other subjects. As with the Courts actions since last October, and particularly since the death of Justice Scalia in February, the most significant message sent by these developments is this: the elections this November will be absolutely critical to the future of the Court and to all our rights and liberties. Start with immigration. The Court split 4-4 on the challenge brought by Texas and other states to the presidents executive actions that would have kept families together by shielding undocumented parents of U.S. citizens from deportation and, in total, helped more than 4 million people across the country. The result of the tie vote is that the lower court decision stands without any opinion by the Court, so that a nationwide injunction by a single Texas federal judge against the presidents orders remains in effect. Although the Court doesnt reveal who voted how in 4-4 splits, its almost certain that the four votes against the orders came from Chief Justice Roberts and Justices Alito and Thomas, joined by Justice Kennedy. Advertisement The Court was also split 4-4 in another important case in June, concerning whether Indian tribal courts can rule in civil cases (this one involving an assault) against non-tribe members who do business on Indian land. Altogether, the Court issued 4-4 non-decisions in five cases this term, the most in more than 30 years - a direct result of Republican Senators unprecedented blockade of the Garland nomination. In several other important cases in June, Justice Kennedy sided with the Courts moderates and produced positive decisions. This included a decision striking down an extremely restrictive Texas law that seriously and improperly limited womens access to abortion by imposing draconian requirements on abortion clinics, as well as a decision approving a University of Texas plan to increase diversity on campus through affirmative action in admissions. So does this mean that we have nothing to fear even if the Republican blockade of President Obamas nomination of Judge Merrick Garland to the vacant seat on the Court succeeds and a President Trump places a right-wing conservative on the Court, because Kennedy is voting with the Courts four moderates? Absolutely not! First, the immigration non-decision itself shows that Kennedy - the author of Citizens United and part of the 5-4 majorities in Shelby County and Hobby Lobby and so many other cases damaging our democracy and our rights - unfortunately sides all too often with the Courts far right wing. That was also shown earlier this term when an apparent 4-4 deadlock forced the Court to essentially punt in the Zubik case, leaving the important question of access to contraceptives and employer religious questions in limbo until the Court again has nine members. Whether that ninth seat is filled by President Obama (or by President Clinton if the Republican blockade continues) or by a President Trump is critical. Advertisement Yesterday, Bernie Sanders was given the chance to write an op-ed in the New York Times. He had a golden opportunity to write a campaign-changing piece, and he whiffed. His piece focused on Brexit as a warning to Democrats to take seriously the negative economic impact of the global economy. Essentially, it was the same campaign speech he gave 1,000 times, recycled using Brexit as the hook. It was largely ignored -- not because he doesn't have a point -- but because he offered up nothing new. Here is the op-ed he should have written. Here is the op-ed that would have made an impact on the debate. It would have given him new relevancy, and stature, as he continues to try to reform the Democratic Party. On Globalization, Trump Is Not the AnswerBy Senator Bernie Sanders As the fallout continues from Britain's vote to leave the European Union, many are sounding alarms that the same economic anxiety caused by globalization, which fueled a good deal of Brexit, could translate to votes for Donald Trump in the United States. I happen to believe those people are correct, and there is good reason to worry. Advertisement It is no secret that I have differences with my opponent in the primary, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, when it comes to issues of globalization and trade. I believe that it is not just good policy, but good politics, to make sure that the Democratic party is a true people's party. Unfortunately, in recent years, the party has drifted too far to the side of the multi-national corporation, and away from the American Worker. Now, it is essential that the party back fair trade and economic policies that will make this new global economy work for everyone, not just those at the top. That is why I continue to push for a strong party platform that rejects trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and why I will continue to push Hillary Clinton. But, the key is that she must become President Hillary Clinton. Neither our campaign, nor the revolution which has risen this year, would be well served by a Donald Trump presidency. Furthermore, those people who truly worry about their economic well-being and stability will only see their problems exacerbated by Donald Trump at the helm. Mr. Trump talks a big game about trade deals. From NAFTA to the TPP, there isn't a trade deal that he won't walk away from, or renegotiate, if he's to be believed. But, he's not to be believed. Advertisement Mr. Trump has done quite well because of free trade deals. Trump ties -- made in China. Trump shirts -- made in Bangladesh. Trump suits -- made in Mexico. He says Trump Steaks are from U.S. beef, but by the look of them, you cannot be too sure. Further, Trump has never shown himself to be a friend of the American worker. From buildings with the Trump name that rose on the backs of unskilled non-union labor, to trying to kick disabled veterans making an honest dollar as vendors out from in front of Trump Tower, Trump has never shown concern for the wellbeing of hard-working Americans. While Donald Trump would have to turn over his businesses to his children, temporarily, as President, he isn't going to do anything that will cost him profits that he can take upon his return to the helm. In fact, he's already shown morals and care for his fellow man always takes a back seat to his wallet. From Trump University, which ripped people off with the false promise of learning about real estate, to scam seminars called the Trump Institute, Mr. Trump has shown time and time again that he will always put profits over people. At the end of the day, what Trump is peddling is a scam like all his other scams. He has correctly sensed desperation on the part of those left out of the global economy, and he is trying to scam them with promises that don't jibe with who he is, or anything he has done. Advertisement Trump is as likely to help American workers, and sacrifice his profits, as I am to join the American Nazi Party. The Democratic Party is not perfect. Hillary Clinton is not perfect. We are working hard to make them better. That process is underway with the platform. But, it must continue past this election, and it must continue with a President with whom we can work. By Smeldy Ramirez and Svante Persson Smeldy Ramirez manages a $20 million portfolio of technical assistance projects and entrepreneurial investments for the Multilateral Investment Fund in the Dominican Republic. His areas of expertise include social innovation, finance inclusion, and development metrics. The evolution of information and communications technologies late last century enabled the development of new military weapons guided by onboard computers, like the Tomahawk cruise missile, which were first used during the 1991 Gulf War. These missiles were the precursors to what would become the first unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), today known as drones, which are piloted by remote control or onboard computers and began doing military reconnaissance flights in the late 1990s. Whereas cruise missiles were a one-way ticket, drones could fly more hours remotely, return to base, and receive new missions. Drones joined nuclear energy, the Internet, and GPS navigation systems as military creations that have been widely adopted for commercial use. Drones became mainstream at the end of the last decade, mostly due to the development of electro-mechanical systems that were created after the production costs of small components of mobile technology lowered, because of the widespread demand for smartphones. Advertisement By 2013, smaller drones begun to be used commercially for recreational purposes. The use of drones is now taking off in many different ways--including as humanitarian tools and for social innovation projects. It's projected that by 2035, drones will surpass the number of piloted aircrafts, according to a recent study by the firm Oliver Wyman. Another study, by PricewaterhouseCoopers, notes that labor costs and services that can be replaced by the use of these devices account for about $127 billion today, and that the main sectors that will be affected are infrastructure, agriculture, and transportation. For example, drones can survey agricultural lands and help producers make more efficient use of seeds, fertilizer and water. Aris Messinis/Matternet Drones useful as tools for humanitarian and social innovation projects Recent pilot projects in different parts of the world have proved that drones can be successfully used as humanitarian tools in the areas of environmental protection and disaster relief, and to enable social innovation projects: The Amazon Conservation Association uses drones to monitor illegal mining and logging in the Peruvian Amazon, to prevent deforestation. In disaster relief, drones can conduct search-and-rescue operations after accidents or natural disasters have struck, and can also better predict where hurricanes will strike. As for social innovation, drones can deliver vaccines to rural mountainous areas of the world that are inaccessible to medical teams, and can collect samples from patients much faster than by other means of transport. Matternet, a Silicon Valley-based drone transportation development company, has launched pilot projects in Bhutan and Malawi with the support of organizations such as Doctors without Borders and UNICEF. Soon, Matternet will be testing similar initiatives in the Dominican Republic, in partnership with the Multilateral Investment Fund of the Inter-American Development Bank Group. This particular project may prove that drones can lower the costs of medical transportation between different remote locations. Legal and ethical issues surrounding the use of drones Despite their obvious attraction, the use of drones poses some serious legal, financial, and practical challenges. Therefore, lawmakers and public safety officials must try to balance the benefits provided with the protection of public safety, civil liberties, and privacy rights. The issues involve: Public safety. Drones are small and hard to detect for radar and air traffic controllers, who sometimes mistake them for large birds. Drones have been found flying dangerously close to commercial aircraft, violating aeronautical rules. Increasingly common "hobby drones" fly in residential areas and even around landmarks such as the White House in Washington, D.C., prompting all sorts of safety concerns. Regulations for where drones can and cannot operate are needed. Drones are small and hard to detect for radar and air traffic controllers, who sometimes mistake them for large birds. Drones have been found flying dangerously close to commercial aircraft, violating aeronautical rules. Increasingly common "hobby drones" fly in residential areas and even around landmarks such as the White House in Washington, D.C., prompting all sorts of safety concerns. Regulations for where drones can and cannot operate are needed. Privacy rights. Since drones can collect and store personally or commercially sensitive data, regulations are needed to avoid violations of individual rights to privacy. Since drones can collect and store personally or commercially sensitive data, regulations are needed to avoid violations of individual rights to privacy. Intellectual property rights. The use of drones that are equipped with cameras is problematic, especially if the devices take photos of public events or public buildings. The use of drones that are equipped with cameras is problematic, especially if the devices take photos of public events or public buildings. Insurance issues. Drones raise new questions for the insurance industry, especially regarding property damage and liability. If a drone fell on a person or a car, industry experts say that in most cases, a standard homeowner's policy or optional comprehensive insurance policy would cover any damages. Drones raise new questions for the insurance industry, especially regarding property damage and liability. If a drone fell on a person or a car, industry experts say that in most cases, a standard homeowner's policy or optional comprehensive insurance policy would cover any damages. Ethical concerns. The United Nations has raised the concern that it could be problematic using commercial drones in conflict zones, since they would be hard to distinguish from military drones. Despite the potential problems, pilot projects have shown that drones can be used to improve people's lives in remote and inaccessible areas in fast, safe, and cost-efficient ways. With the rise of these kinds of drone applications, the RoboWarrior stigma may fade away in time. Svante Persson Svante Persson has led projects for the Multilateral Investment Fund on water and sanitation, early childhood development and nutrition, and climate adaptation and resilience. He has a master's degree in economics from Lund University in Sweden and wrote his thesis about economic reforms in Cuba. Advertisement A man was sitting in his plane seat, calmly scribbling notes on a pad while waiting for takeoff. The woman sitting next to him, who watched him writing some strange formulas she didn't understand, felt more and more uncomfortable with the man. Whether it was just his obscure notes, or the notes plus the fact the he had dark hair and a beard, she was concerned, and alerted the cabin crew that she might be sitting next to a possible terrorist. Minutes later, the captain of the plane approached the unsuspecting economist and asked him to leave the plane to speak to some men who appeared to be FBI agents. It turns out the gentleman was Guido Menzio, an Italian-born world famous economist at the University of Pennsylvania, and his notes were a math problem he had been working on. Cases like this are more and more common. Fueled by the fear of terrorism, people eye their fellow travelers with great suspicion, especially if they appear to be Middle Eastern. Although the notion "better safe than sorry" is understandable, it also bears the risk for us to become more and more prejudice -- and paranoid. We're living in a strange dichotomy. On the one hand, the parts of the world seem to move closer and closer together. Modern technology allows us to connect and interact instantaneously with almost anyone around the world. The media feeds us live updates on any global developments. And traveling to the most exotic place has become easier and more affordable. But also within our society, there appears to be a greater variety of different cultural influences and more freedom of self-expression and acceptance of the diversity of lifestyles. Advertisement On the other hand, political movements that base their ideology on fear and anger against those who don't share their same values and beliefs are rapidly picking up steam. And I'm not talking about only the religious fanatics of this world. Most Western nations observe a growing popularity of politicians who use divisiveness and "us against them" messages to fuel the frustration and worry of those who already feel disenfranchised by the establishment. The latest examples are the unlikely rise of Donald Trump and the decision of the British people to leave the European Union. Part of the allure of both was the message of having to protect the country from foreigners, whether they are Mexicans or the legions of immigrants who are desperately fleeing a war-zone to find someplace where they can exist in peace. As a result, racism, xenophobia, and homophobia are on the rise. A recent Quinnipiac poll found that 61 percent of those surveyed said that the 2016 US presidential election has had increased the level of hatred and prejudice in country. I believe that the majority of people still like to see themselves as tolerant and open-minded. To them, being called prejudiced would be an insult. However, we need to be aware that, in general, our minds are tempted to being prejudiced for several reasons: Advertisement 1.To quickly make sense of reality We're constantly bombarded with stereotyping messages that depict Muslims as terrorists, African-Americans as gang members, Mexicans as drug dealers, gay men as effeminate fashionistas, lesbians as butch men-haters... Just the mere exposure to these stereotypes creates a slippery slope toward becoming prejudiced. Our mind, which uses subconscious filters to make sense out of the world, employs these stereotypes to quickly judge and discern people who are different from us. It feels less overwhelming to, for example, put others into a labelled box than to recognize their complete individuality and uniqueness. As the author E.B. White said: "Prejudice is a great time saver. You can form opinions without having to get the facts." 2.To give us a false sense of control and safety We fear that which we don't understand and avoid that which we're afraid of. Preconceived notions about those who think, believe, and live differently from us can be a self-protective pattern. To keep the country safe, refugees are seen as potential terrorists. To avoid God's punishment, homosexuals are labelled evil sinners. To preserve jobs, Mexicans are perceived as illegal immigrants. The segregation of a group of people to preserve the "tribe" is a very basic protective mechanism that has been terribly abused throughout history by most nations. My German ancestors have been guilty of the most atrocious form of prejudice. The dehumanization of Jews and its horrific consequences during the holocaust are a part of history that no country should ever forget. 3.To provide us with a sense of superiority and power Researchers have found that prejudice is often driven by emotions such as disgust, pity, pride, and envy. To make us feel better about ourselves, we're making fun of or looking down on those, who appear "weaker" or "weirder" than we feel we are. We feel a sense of righteousness when we label homeless people as lazy addicts, who could turn their lives around if they just wanted to work. We take some solace in judging refugees as potential risks to our safety, rather than having compassion and empathy for their incredible hardship. It's interesting how you can find out what's really on someone's mind when they're under pressure. It happened to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, but if you blinked, you may have missed it. But this is something we cannot ignore. During her interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper following the Orlando tragedy, Ms. Bondi claimed (on Fox News) that she expected to talk about one topic, only to be called out by Mr. Cooper on her anti-gay rhetoric. When asked if she was being hypocritical about supporting gays on that day after previously fighting gay marriage with thousands of Floridians' tax dollars all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court, she fought back by telling Mr. Cooper that she was merely defending the Florida Constitution when she stated that gay marriage would "induce public harm" to Floridians. When she realized that her interview was not going well, she decided to shift the subject. It sounded like a statement that came from nowhere. A non-sequitur. She went from saying that she insulted the LGBT community because she was defending the Florida Constitution to a whole different subject. Here is the transcript from CNN: Advertisement You - you know - no. No. What we argued was, it was in the constitution of the state of Florida. Let me give you an example. Medical marijuana. A 12-year-old could get it if [a medical marijuana amendment] passed. We took that to the Supreme Court. Because of that language - hold on. But if that passed, I would defend that as well because it's my job to defend what's in the constitution of the state of Florida. That's what it was about. It's funny how that topic floated to the top of an already very busy mind. Even though it's possible she could be investigated because she declined to pursue the Trump University case in Florida after taking a campaign donation from Donald Trump,(which has to be on her mind) the topic of medical cannabis pops up. That first medical marijuana amendment she opposed failed. When the revised "Florida Right to Medical Marijuana Initiative," Amendment 2 , went to the Florida Supreme Court for review after the petitions were filed, Attorney General Bondi decided not to fight it this time. "Based on the Court's decision in 2014, I have not filed a legal challenge to the current amendment, but my concerns with it are the same," Bondi said. Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi speaking out against the medical marijuana initiative in 2014. Photo courtesy of the Huffington Post. Advertisement Many people who support the new Amendment 2 cheered, and optimism started to grow. But there were a lot of folks who thought that Amendment 2 was going to pass easily in 2014 as well. It won a majority, but not the required 60 percent. It's important to note that many young Britons felt that there was no way the Brexit would pass, either. So they didn't show up to vote. It wasn't until the results were in that they began to protest, calling for a new referendum. Something similar happened to the younger voters in Florida, who showed up at the polls in conspicuously lower numbers than had been suggested by the polling. Bondi's verbal reflex against medical cannabis shows there's strong opposition that cannot be ignored. Unfortunately, she wasn't alone in her ways of thinking when she went to the courts to fight gay marriage, and she isn't alone here. There are many in Florida who are just not ready in their minds for legalizing medical marijuana. A case in point: my wife, Monique, lost her eyesight primarily from glaucoma, still has pain and gets treated with burning drops and injections. When I wrote in a Huffington Post blog that she would like to use medical marijuana for the pain, she and our family got hassles from every direction, including our neighbors. To get the 60% needed to pass this ballot initiative in November we must consider three questions: 1. Who is against this source of a large number of medicines that actually predates our modern civilization, which holds the keys to treating everything from chronic debilitating pain to epilepsy to even cancer, and does, without side effects, what Big Pharma, with billions of dollars to spend on research, has yet to accomplish? Advertisement 2. How do we get them to understand that there are Floridians suffering and even dying who need these medicines because the ones we have now either don't work well or don't work at all? 3. How do we get the message to them that they have to vote Yes on Amendment 2? The first solution is my upcoming book, "The Great Green Hope" which will be released later this summer. It highlights the stories of real people whose lives have been saved or treated by the use of medicines derived from cannabis. Watch for it and look for someone who may need it. It will change their minds and lives, and maybe save them one day. The second solution would be to get those with "celebrity status" who use medical marijuana for real medical reasons to start explaining to Floridians that this is not about getting high, it's about getting well. It's not about caregivers selling joints to 12-year-olds; it's about caring about someone who is suffering. The opposition to Amendment 2 is mainly funded by Mel Sembler, who believes anyone who uses cannabis is an addict and deserves "Clockwork Orange" treatment (like those unfortunates in his involuntary rehab centers), and Sheldon Adelson, who generously sends massive amounts of money to Israel for medical cannabis research, but funds the opposition here to push his favorite conservative candidates and his casino agenda, with a war chest of $10 million. I would like to invite well known personalities like Whoopi Goldberg, who uses a vape pen to control the pain from her glaucoma; Montel Williams, who uses it to manage his Muscular Sclerosis; Oliver Stone, who used it to avoid the agony of PTSD; Morgan Freeman, who manages the pain from a near-fatal car crash; and a host of other great celebrities who have used their fame to advocate for the medicine that helped them and lend their star power to us fighting here in Florida. Advertisement To the celebrities I mentioned and the ones who have not yet stepped into the spotlight to save millions of lives, Florida is waiting for your help and guidance. The recent announcement that HSBC Bank Middle East Ltd. moved its incorporation from Jersey to Dubai, under the auspices of the Dubai International Financial Center, sent a powerful message that the regulatory climate and safety of the Emirate is strong enough to take such a drastic decision. The assets of HSBC Middle East amount to 40 billion dollars, making it one of the largest asset transfers to Dubai. It is a strategic move for HSBC as it provides the bank with an address that is more legitimate and suitable to its Middle East business activities. Another example is the opening of an insurance platform for regional underwriters in Dubai in 2015, by the London based insurance syndicate Lloyd's. It indicates the dynamics of the region and specifically Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) as a gateway for finance in the Middle East. . The focus on regulatory certainty and economic stability show how Dubai aims to become one of the global financial centers that will shape the world of finance in this century. While news from the Middle East is dominated by humanitarian crises, conflicts and economic downturns, it is hard to believe that the growth of the United Arab Emirates continues to be sustained. The key explanation for this is that, in contrast to other parts of the region, Dubai is a beacon of stability and regulatory certainty. Dubai International Financial Center is, for example, unique in operating under English common law and its regulatory standards. The Dubai International Financial Center's profile and sophistication as a regulator has increased in credibility and scope. With over 1,400 companies from 72 countries, it has a global footprint that will support the aspirations of the Emirate. In May 2015, a new commercial companies law has been introduced that aims to continue the UAE's development of its market and business environment in line with global standards and, in particular, raise levels of good corporate governance, protection of shareholders and promotion of corporate social responsibility. Besides Dubai International Financial Center, another determining factor in the region is the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates. It is a respected federal central bank, responsible for monetary policy and the single currency of the Emirates. Like the European Central bank, however, it also has to deal with seven different fiscal policies. Its role in the consolidation of the Emirates banking sector and its regulation is becoming critical to the region. New rules have been issued by the Central bank to deal with risk management at international standards There is no doubt, the move from Jersey deals a blow to these 'Iles Anglo-Normandes' or Channel Islands off the coast of France that are effectively part of the United Kingdom. They have been an offshore "tax haven" under many definitions. Given the negative connotations following the Panama Papers and Dubai's maturing regulatory framework, the move of HSBC to Dubai aligns with Chairman Douglas Flint's call on banks to keep tightening up their checks and controls: The so-called Panama Papers have highlighted once again how perfectly legal corporate structures can be abused to facilitate money laundering and tax evasion or to obscure ill-gotten gains. Behind all this, a possible merger of the securities regulators has been in the cards for years to improve the depth and transparency of the capital markets. The dynamics in the Middle East are significant: the potential of such moves and the developments in Dubai represent a much-needed positive sign from this region and one that benefits international finance. Quitting smoking is so hard that most smokers kick themselves for even starting. Not everyone who smokes enjoys it, as evident by the nearly 7 out of 10 smokers who've said they want to quit completely. While many smokers have switched to e-cigarettes, those people shouldn't be considered nonsmokers. They're still slaves to nicotine. It's just delivered in a less flammable way. But quitting -- as in getting out of nicotine addiction once and for all -- takes way more than a little willpower. Advertisement A study recently appearing in BMJ Open suggests the number of times it takes to quit smoking for good is much higher that experts once thought. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests 8 to 11 attempts. The American Cancer Society believes 8 to 10. The Australian Cancer Council is less optimistic with 12 to 14 attempts. "Smoking cessation is a difficult and complex process, and smokers use many methods and approaches to achieve cessation," the recent study begins. "Knowing how many quit attempts it takes an average smoker to quit is important as it can frame different narratives about the quitting process." The study by researchers at the University of Toronto suggests it's more likely it'll take a smoker 30 attempts or more to go a full year without any cigarettes. Advertisement If that's the case, the road to quitting smoking is a long and bumpy one. Factoring in 30 attempts When assessing how many attempts a smoker will traditionally make before they're off the habit, researchers used data from the Ontario Tobacco Survey. The sample consisted of 4,501 recent smokers, 3,960 were still smoking. During the three-year period people were in the study, 1,277 people made an attempt to quit smoking. On average, it took about 2.7 attempts per person. The majority of the study participants were daily smokers with either low smoking "heaviness," or a lag time after waking before their first cigarette. Researchers asked study participants whether they'd had a cigarette within a year after quitting. If the person answered "yes," then it wasn't considered a successful quit. That's a strict definition. Anyone who's tried to quit smoking knows there is often a stumble here and there, such as having one at a party or during the midst of a particularly stressful day. Advertisement But even with the definitive knowledge that cigarettes are lethal, it's the addiction that keeps the habit going. There have been studies that suggest nicotine is as addictive as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol. Because of that, attempts to quit are often unsuccessful because of withdrawal, stress, and weight gain. It also takes some trial and error to find out which method works best for a person, whether it's quitting "cold turkey" or using a nicotine replacement therapy like gum or patches. So, researchers calculate, it takes a person a realistic 30 attempts to quit smoking, the number of attempts nearly three times higher for daily smokers compared to the occasional smoker. Letting smokers know how many times it takes to quit could be a double-edged sword and may not be helpful, the researchers noted. Advertisement "It may be that some smokers may be discouraged by hearing how difficult it can be to quit smoking," the study states. Then again, it may make for an interesting statistic for cigarette packs. While many people could stay away from cigarettes after a year, about a third will experience some kind of relapse. Since most smokers start in adolescence with an average attempt to quit each year, the average smoker can expect to quit in their late 40s or early 50s, which is when most people finally quit smoking. A Healthline reader survey also revealed how tough it can be to quit. The online survey garnered 552 responses. Of those, 67 people listed themselves as current smokers with 37 participants saying they were trying to quit. Another 165 said they were ex-smokers. The rest have never smoked. In total, 259 survey respondents said they have tried to quit. Of them, 122 had made one or two attempts. Another 81 had tried 10 or fewer times while 25 said they had tried more than 10 times. The rest didn't answer that particular question. Advertisement Of those, 138 went "cold turkey" in their attempt to quit. Another 47 used a nicotine patch, gum or lozenge. Another 24 tried medication while 19 used e-cigarettes in an attempt to kick the habit. The rest didn't answer. Somewhere in the middle I've been smoking nearly every day since I was 14, hooked on a pack a day for more than a decade. After 20 years, my affinity for cigarettes is finally wearing off. I'm now 34 years old. I can still run a few miles with ease, but as CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden says, there's no such thing as a healthy smoker. Basically, because I've smoked for so long, I'm inevitably sick. That's why I'm focused on quitting. I'm sick of having to go outside. I'm sick of going through airport security again during a layover. I'm sick of having to hide from kids at parties. I'm sick of always having to go out and buy cigarettes. Most of all, I'm sick of the idea that someday cigarettes will make me too sick to do anything about it. Today, for this go around, I'm back in the dreaded Day Three. I have in no way quit smoking yet. I'm still deep in those woods. I am, however, actively working on quitting smoking. Advertisement This time around, however, I'm fully aware that I cannot have a cigarette here and there and think I'll be fine. I won't. I'll get right back up to a pack a day, like I have with my half dozen attempts before this one. But at least those failed attempts have taught me a few important things about my habit, my addiction, and, most importantly, how it can affect my health. This may be the attempt that works for me. It may not. But I'm not quitting-quitting anytime soon. By Brian Krans As a current student at Stanford Law School, I find myself frequently talking to current prospective law students wanting to know what they should be doing now to get into a top law school. My immediate response is always the same: strengthen your GPA and crush the LSAT. A typical law school admissions application will include essays, letters of recommendation, and other personal information, but a student's undergraduate grade point average (GPA) and LSAT score are the two most important factors--by far--in a student's application. The LSAT (Law School Admissions Test) is the standardized test that law schools require for admissions, much like medical schools require the MCAT and business schools often require the GMAT. Law school admissions pay particular attention to the LSAT because it serves to put candidates on an equal playing field, whereas letters of recommendation and even GPAs can be hard to standardize across applicants. Why do GPA and LSAT matter so much? Admissions committees care about GPA and LSAT because, combined, these two factors make up for almost one-fourth of what goes into U.S. News and World Report's annual law school rankings. And whether formal or not, most admissions deans carry the significant burden that is helping their respective law schools maintain, or most often, improve their law school ranking. A higher ranking means, among other things, more perceived prestige. More perceived prestige leads to more applicants, which help to drive a lower acceptance rate (another weighted factor in the rankings), more application fees, better faculty, most likely a boost in donations from alumni, and hopefully more candidates with high GPAs and LSAT scores from which to choose. If you are the dean of admissions, you can't control the other factors that are part of the rankings, such as peer assessment and faculty resources, but crafting a class of students in such a way that serves to drive up the median GPA and median LSAT is largely within your power. Advertisement If I want to go to a top law school, what GPA and LSAT should I be aiming for? This chart indicates the GPA and LSAT ranges for admitted students at the top 14 law schools this past academic year. Students wanting to go to one of these schools should aim to be above median for both GPA and LSAT. For an admissions committee, this can be seen as a win-win. If, however, one of these factors is below median, it's important that you offset it. So, if your GPA, for example, is closer to the 25th percentile for a school, your LSAT should be closer to the 75th percentile for that same school. Using this data, the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) website (www.lsac.org) can suggest target schools for applicants after putting in their own GPA and LSAT. In my experience, I found www.lawschoolnumbers.com to be much more useful. That website contains thousands of applicants' data from application cycles in the most recent years. Though the data is not comprehensive across all applicants, there are enough data points to provide compelling insights that allow prospective applicants to see how candidates with certain GPAs and LSAT scores have fared in recent admissions cycles. Advertisement What about these other things? When I tell prospective law students that GPA and LSAT matter most, I often then get asked many of the following questions: If I want to go to the best law school possible, should I not take hard classes then because it might hurt my GPA? If you are taking a hard class because you think it will look good on your transcript when the admissions committee sees it, then don't take that class. A high GPA will catch their eye; hard classes won't. So does that mean I should only take easy classes? There is a ton to be gained individually and intellectually from taking challenging classes. I personally think that people shortchange their education when they avoid taking challenging classes. But again, if your motivation is to impress admissions, whether right or wrong, this is better done with a high GPA than with a transcript full of arguably difficult courses. What about extracurricular activities and internships? Do those even matter? No law school admissions dean is going to tell you that these things don't matter. But they pale in comparison to the weight that is given to your GPA and LSAT score. Your GPA and LSAT score will move the needle between acceptance and rejection; being president of the political affairs society won't. If you want to join student council or do an on-campus internship because you think it will be personally enriching, help you get involved, push you to learn more about what interests you, etc., then do it! If you want to do these things, however, because you think it will impress admissions and offset your poor GPA, then you're better off spending more time in the library raising that GPA. Advertisement Given two candidates with comparable GPAs and LSAT scores, yes, activities and internships are likely to provide an edge; however, these factors alone can not overcome a poor GPA or LSAT score. These pursuits are often very valuable for students, but that value is unlikely to be unlocked in the form of a law school admissions boost. So what now? Each student must figure out for him- or herself what is to be made of the undergraduate experience. More often than not, the decisions to be made entail multiple, sometimes opposing, motivations, each of which deserve their own personal and thoughtful consideration. But if we're talking about what it takes to get into a top law school, then students should remember: there's your GPA and your LSAT score, and then, far down the line, everything else. But lest we beat the drums of feminist conquest too loudly, there's always a sexist dude somewhere to bring us back to earth. In particular, let's talk about Bob Sweere. Mr. Sweere is a latecomer to the race for Missouri's 132nd House district -- and at this point, I can hear a chorus of voices yelling at me, "Why on earth should I care about a state house race in Missouri of all places?!!" Advertisement Well, in part because state house races matter a lot more than most of us want to admit. (Care about education? Health care access? Police brutality, prison overcrowding and privatization, or public transportation? These things are influenced far more by your state legislature than by Congress.) But also, because I have a thesis: State house races in Missouri are a far better reflection of the kind of environment most women live in than anything that happens within the Beltway. If a smart, talented, experienced young woman in Missouri is assaulted by sexist remarks in her quest for a state house seat, that probably tells us more about Women in America than columns in the national media ever will. So back to Bob Sweere. Mr. Sweere is running in the Democratic primary against Crystal Quade, a 30-year-old social worker with ties to the current Democratic representative from the district. Ms. Quade used to work as a health care caseworker in a Missouri Senate office and even spent time working in the house office for which she is now running. Mr. Sweere, on the other hand, is a sexagenarian attorney who is well-known in Springfield for a witty sign posted outside his office. Advertisement So naturally, Mr. Sweere, when he officially launched his campaign on June 1, invited a speaker to introduce him who referred to Ms. Quade as "a nice, young girl who just had a baby, and she wants to be state rep." (Said baby is 2 years old.) (Also, as a "nice, young girl" myself, please never refer to a woman in public as a "nice, young girl.") (Also also, isn't it so confusing when women "want to be state rep"? Who put that idea in their pretty little heads?) The speaker's solution to this Democratic primary nonsense? My proposal is let her follow in Bob's footsteps for eight years, see how she does. I would like for you all to think about sending the experienced voice to Jeff[erson] City and let this girl who's his primary opposition candidate -- she's got great ideas, she really does, nice young girl -- let's let her tutor under Bob [...]. You can watch a video of the speaker's whole statement here. I don't want to blow this all out of proportion -- no, one state house race in Missouri does not a political trend make. And no, the candidate himself didn't make these remarks. And no, these aren't the most sexist things to have ever been said about a woman running for office. Advertisement These remarks out of the Sweere campaign seem to have drawn no broader condemnation or blowback at all, and that bothers me. Unless we start naming blatant sexism for what it is, it's hard to imagine things ever changing. So here it is: Mr. Sweere, we see you. Cut it out. Run on the merit of your own ideas, or drop out and let the "nice, young girl" get to work. There are few honeymoon luxuries quite like your own private pool. So whether you dream of an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, a plunge pool beside a watering hole in an African wildlife reserve, or your own luxury European villa, here are ten honeymoons with a private pool for every budget. Casa Josephine, Corsica The perfect romantic hideaway, this one-bedroom villa has its own private pool, with beaches nearby, and it backs on to the vineyards where one of Corsica's finest wines is grown - although a thick screen of vegetation keeps it perfectly secluded. Outside it's the ultimate rustic hideaway, inside it's brightly modern and contemporary. Available through Corsican Places. Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica Decisions, decisions - do you arrive to the rainforest setting of Pacuare Lodge in Costa Rica by jeep or 90-minute white-water rafting excursion? One thing is certain, no honeymoon here would be complete without at least one night's stay in the Canopy Suite, a treehouse reached by suspension bridge with its own private stone swimming pool that's fed by spring water. Book with Exsus Advertisement Troux aux Biches Resort & Spa, Mauritius With the only beachfront pool suites on Mauritius, this resort has an added temptation on top of its beautiful beach on the west coast of the island. When you can bear to leave the private plunge pools on your terrace, there are six restaurants, a spa and wonderful diving. It's available through Beachcomber Tours Sandals Royal Caribbean, Jamaica If you've always wanted to stay in an overwater villa without having to fly to the Indian Ocean or South Pacific, Jamaica has the answer. Sandals Royal Caribbean opens the first over-water suites in the Caribbean later this year, with their own private infinity pools looking out to the turquoise water, as well as glass floors for a great view of the marine life. Ananda in the Himalayas, India Who says honeymoon has to equal beach? If you're looking for relaxing pampering, the destination spa Ananda in the Himalayas near Rishikesh is perfect, with a private pool at the one-bedroom Ganga Villa. Set on a 100-acre Maharajah's Palace Estate, the huge spa focuses on achieving balance and harmony, without sacrificing any of the luxury. Ulusaba Private game reserve, South Africa Part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, Ulusaba is as uniquely luxurious as the other properties despite being in the heart of a private game reserve. Check in to Cliff Lodge 2, with a large private Jacuzzi on the outdoor viewing deck, to relax and spot the animals. There's also a lodge observatory for star gazing. Advertisement Zoetry Paraiso de La Bonita, Mexico The emphasis is firmly on luxury at the Zoetry Paraiso de La Bonita, on Mexico's Riviera Maya. As well as private plunge pools at the Romance Oceanfront one bedroom suites, the Endless Privileges all-inclusive package includes fine wines at the three restaurants on site, and the chance to visit nearby dining options included, spa treatments and a boat tour. Book through Tropical Sky La Fornace, Tuscany, Italy Who could have thought an old furnace would be so beautiful? Transformed into a villa for two, the original ovens of La Fornace are still visible below the ground, although today the decor is warm wood and bright colours. Outside, the pool is shaded by trees in the grounds with a covered patio to relax on, and the Tuscan highlights of San Gimignano, Siena and Florence nearby. Anantara Mai Khao Villas, Phuket, Thailand All the villas at this peaceful beachfront resort in Phuket's quieter north have their own private pools. Created around a lagoon in the style of a Thai village, the focus is on low-key luxury: there might be a beachside barbecue but Anantara Mai Khao Villas has it own salt sommelier, while the traditional carvings and wooden floors are made of luxurious teak. Book with Turquoise Holidays Laluna, Grenada A combination of Italian style and relaxed Balinese atmosphere, all with an added helping of Caribbean sun and spice, Laluna is perfect for a chic couple to chill out. And each of the cottages has its own private plunge pool to do just that, between Balinese massage, an afternoon nap in the four-poster bed, or a glass of something special from the wine cellar. * Jane Anderson is editor of 101 Honeymoons The "Price" of Freedom July 4th - the day Americans celebrate our country's independence. The day we watch fireworks and wave Old Glory. It's a day when our children run around with sparklers. The day we feel most patriotic. The day we wear the colors of the American flag - red, white and blue. The day we celebrate freedom. The day we throw a big party for our nation. Freedom means different things to different people. My perspective on the meaning of freedom has changed over the past few years. For me, freedom means the ability to live free of fear, free of intimidation and free from gun violence. Freedom in America, as set out in the Declaration of Independence, is meant to be life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Yet, there is a vocal minority who believe these fundamental rights are pre-empted by the right to unrestricted access to deadly weapons. Gun extremists have corrupted and dishonored the true meaning of freedom. Their idea of freedom is the unfettered ability to have any gun, anywhere, without any regulation. Something as simple and widely supported as a background check is deemed "a burden" and infringes on their absolutist rights. Gun extremists go as far as to try and convince us that owning a gun is a "God-given right." Extremists insist on being able to open carry, conceal carry, and of course hoard an unlimited number of guns and ammunition in their homes. Advertisement I know far too well the price of freedom, because my sister, Mary Sherlach, was one of the 30,000 Americans who are killed every year at the hands of a gun. My sister was the school psychologist at Sandy Hook School. She was living her life of freedom. She had a right to that life. She had a right to grow old in the pursuit of her own happiness. But a disturbed man who never should have had easy access to firearms and an arsenal of bullets took that right away from her. Those bullets took my sister's freedom. Those bullets took my sister Mary's life. Almost daily we read and hear about others lives taken by gun violence. Americans going about their lives in their homes, schools, malls, offices, hospitals, campuses, theaters, parks, and churches. On average, 91 Americans trying to live their lives are shot and killed every day, and hundreds more are injured. And the latest - on June 12th, at a nightclub in Orlando, our country experienced the deadliest mass shooting in our country's modern history, leaving 49 dead and more than 50 others injured. That night, members of the LGBTQ community went to out to celebrate their freedom, only to have their lives, liberties and pursuits of happiness taken away in mere moments by a hate-filled terrorist with a gun. In further affronts to our freedom this week, a majority of U.S. Senators voted against closing loopholes that make it far too easy for dangerous people - including suspected terrorists - to buy guns in this country. And the Republican leadership in the U.S. House refused to acknowledge the public outcry led by House Democrats to even hold a vote on common-sense gun laws. Instead of doing the job they were elected to do, they went on vacation. They have ignored the will of the people, and now we know where they stand. Advertisement When we cannot go about our daily lives free from the fear of gun violence, we are no longer a free nation. We are a nation held hostage by the NRA and extremist gun lobby. The very legislators offering thoughts and prayers every time another mass shooting occurs and then voting against the overwhelming interests of the American public are those same ones lining their pockets with contributions from the gun lobby. I'm sick and tired of thoughts and prayers. Their thoughts and prayers are not doing anything to save lives. I, for one, am not willing to sacrifice my freedom to live in a nation where someone on the terror watch list can legally purchase guns. I won't sacrifice my freedom so that felons, convicted domestic abusers, the dangerously mentally ill and those convicted of hate crimes can legally possess firearms. I won't sacrifice my freedom so that someone doesn't have to bear "the burden" of a 90-second background check to ensure we are doing all we can to keep guns out of dangerous hands. The historic events--the filibuster in Senate and the sit-in in the House-- reflect the outrage and urgency that Americans are feeling around the country: it is high time our government take action and do everything in its power to help reduce gun violence in America and save lives. And the inspiring leadership by members of both Chambers shows that our voices and our calls to action are being heard. This July 4th, I will honor all victims and survivors of gun violence by wearing my orange flag pin. Orange, the color of gun violence prevention, coupled with the American flag, is a badge I can wear proudly. Because only in a nation, free from gun violence, will we be truly free. The battle between victims of the cholera epidemic in Haiti and the United Nations may resemble a classic David and Goliath story, except in this case Goliath hasn't even shown up to fight. The reason is that the United Nations is granted "immunity from every form of legal process" -- even though public health experts believe UN peacekeeping troops are responsible for the cholera outbreak in Haiti, which has infected more than 750,000 people and killed more than 9,000 since October 2010. (Though a recent paper from Medecins Sans Frontieres researchers suggests that there may be "a substantially higher cholera mortality rate than previously reported.") Nevertheless, on Jan. 9, 2015, US District Court Judge J. Paul Oetken dismissed a class action lawsuit brought by the Institute for Justice and Democracy in Haiti. But in March the Second Circuit Court of Appeals agreed to review the District Court's ruling. The decision of the three judges is pending. Advertisement The United Nations should not be able to invoke immunity in order to foreclose on justice. The 1946 convention that granted them immunity also charged them with a responsibility. They aren't to be accountable to no one. Rather, according to the convention, the UN "shall make provisions for appropriate modes of settlement." But the UN has refused to do so in this case. The United Nations should account for their role in one of the deadliest outbreaks of cholera in recent history. Some argue that time is better spent on halting the epidemic and not trying to point fingers at who started it. But while that trade may satisfy members of elite organizations, it is unlikely to satisfy people like Lisette Paul, one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Her brother, Fritznel, became sick while working in the fields. He vomited and had diarrhea for seven days straight until he died. His medical and funeral expenses plunged his family into debt. Soon, they could no longer afford to send his daughter to school. The suffering of Fritznel, Lisette, and those like them shouldn't be pitted against the prevention of future pain. They should have a forum to air their claims and the UN should provide it. No one doubts that the ongoing cholera epidemic in Haiti is a man-made disaster. The debate is who, or what, was responsible. Cholera is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea and vomiting and, unstopped, eventually dehydration and sometimes death. People can catch it from contaminated water. But it hadn't been in Haiti for 100 years at least. So how did it wind up there in October 2010? Advertisement The short answer is human activity from South Asia. One team of public health experts matched the strain of cholera to a South Asian type. Another made a circumstantial case that the disease came from a camp of UN peacekeeping troops from Nepal. Before the troops were deployed to Haiti, there had been a cholera outbreak in Kathmandu, Nepal. Less than two weeks after the first cases, the Associated Press reported an overflowing septic tank, the "stench of excrement," and "a reeking black flow" from the camp's pipes to the Artibonite River, which 1.5 million Haitians use. The UN doesn't deny all of these claims. In fact, they rounded up an independent panel that reached many of the same conclusions. They also found that the cholera strain matches the South Asian type and the outbreak happened "as a result of human activity." But the UN panel report arrives at a different conclusion. Though they agree someone must have brought cholera to Haiti, they say no one should be blamed. This is because, they argue, there was a "confluence of circumstances." These circumstances include the environmental conditions, the role that Haitians played in spreading the disease, an especially deadly strain of cholera, and the country's poor sanitation and water conditions. Indeed, by the time the cholera outbreak hit, a mere 17% of Haitians had access to facilities that separate human waste from human contact. The "confluence of factors" argument amounts to little more than victim blaming. If only Haiti had better water and sanitation, the argument goes, then cholera would not have spread. But does that mean someone should be able to leak contaminated raw sewage with impunity? "From a legal perspective that stuff is all totally irrelevant," counters Brian Concannon, the executive director of the Institute for Justice and Democracy in Haiti. "If the UN negligently introduced this disease into an environment they knew was weak, then legally it's still responsible." Advertisement Still, this isn't an open-and-shut case. Daniele Lantagne and the rest of the UN panel give two reasons why not. First, there is no hard scientific link between the peacekeepers and the outbreak. Someone else from South Asia could have been in Haiti at the time and, however miniscule the possibility, they could have carried the strain. Second, the introduction of cholera undoubtedly was an accident and not a deliberate act. But this only raises more questions that the UN should answer. No one argues that the peacekeepers contaminated the water supply on purpose. If they had the disease, they may have had no idea. In fact, it is possible to be totally asymptomatic. But this doesn't answer why they weren't screened for the disease. After all, a cholera outbreak was reported on September 23, 2010, in Kathmandu, which is where the peacekeepers trained for three months. They received a medical examination before traveling to Haiti. Why weren't they tested for cholera? A recent article in PLOS Medicine reports that the rapid diagnostic test only costs $2.54 per person and a single-dose prophylaxis on the higher end runs $1.32 per person. Even if they were definitively singled out as the cause, it would be unfair to punish the peacekeepers. They weren't experts. Peacekeeping troops are hired out, largely from poor countries, to the UN for $1,028 per soldier per month of duty. But that doesn't mean no one could have foreseen harm. Just two days after the January 2010 earthquake, the US National Center for Medical Intelligence wrote that it "expects damage to urban water and sewage infrastructure will increase rates of diarrheal disease, possibly to include cholera." Even if an accidental act and a confluence of factors spread cholera, the important ethical questions are when those factors were known, and by whom. It isn't only outsiders like Brian Concannon and the IJDH who are calling on the UN to hear claims from the victims of cholera. In his first report as the UN's independent expert on the situation of human rights in Haiti, Gustavo Gallon called for a "reparation commission for cholera victims." Given that the UN proclaimed that victims of human rights violations must be able to seek remedies and reparations, Mr. Gallon reminds us, anything less would be hypocritical. Advertisement In October 2015, four UN Special Rapporteurs joined Gallon to argue that "the victims of cholera have access to a transparent, independent and impartial mechanism that can review their claims and decide on the merits of those claims in order to ensure adequate reparation, including restitution, compensation, satisfaction and guarantees of non-repetition." More recently, Jan Eliasson, the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, wrote a letter that the "Secretary General and I are fully committed to ensuring that the Organization fulfills its human rights obligations." Yet the letter doesn't mention financial compensation nor does it mention any "transparent, independent and impartial mechanism" to review claims. One out of every fourteen Haitians has been infected with cholera. They deserve an official forum to examine why this happened and who is responsible. People like Claudine, another client of IJDH, who spent her life savings to bury her father should be made financially whole. As of today, none of this will happen. This blog originally appeared at PLOS Public Health Perspectives. For many of our Hispanic entrepreneurs, a part-time job provided that crucial first step toward achieving their dreams and creating a business that, in turn, is providing those same opportunities for more young people in our communities. For many in our communities, including young people, part-time work is critical as a first opportunity or to balance family, school or other obligations. Ensuring flexible work schedules that allow employees to maintain the work-life balance they need, while also permitting businesses to meet the demands of a challenging economy, is an important balance that our stakeholders strive every day to get right. This is why it is so disturbing to see a trend emerging across the country of state and local governments, including D.C. and Seattle, considering one-size fits all scheduling legislation that would prohibit the flexibility that our businesses need to make them successful and that their employees rely upon to meet the demands of their personal lives. The current argument is that legislation is necessary to ensure workers have the schedules they need, something our businesses are already well-motivated to provide. The reality is that these mandates would constrain businesses from being able to offer the kind of flexible part-time work that is crucial for many in our greatest national asset -- our uniquely diverse workforce, including young people, working parents and retirees. Advertisement The scheduling ordinance that went into effect in San Francisco last year is a good example of the problem with a one-size fits all approach. It was passed without either studying the possible impacts or meaningful consultation with business. We are seeing the negative impacts of that law with businesses increasingly unable to provide more work to more people and employees unable to pick up extra hours and income. Restrictive mandates like San Francisco can discourage business development in communities that need it and negatively impact workers. Another example is observable in Washington, D.C., where the City Council has put forth legislation that would have an adverse impact 61,000 employees who work in the District's 2,200 restaurants as well the 93,420 workers in the District's retail industry. The bill has been opposed by stakeholders as diverse as the National Restaurant Association and the iconic Ben's Chili Bowl. The D.C. bill was pulled from consideration before the full council yesterday, demonstrating that responsible legislators are finally recognizing the problems with restrictive scheduling legislation. I sometimes find myself in the homes, laboratories, and offices of the nation's greatest innovators. Last spring, I was standing in a living room in Lexington, Massachusetts, watching Radia Perlman a 2016 National Inventors Hall of Fame Inducteeplay the piano alongside her daughter on violin. My eyes were admittedly welled up with tears as I sat behind the video cameras that were filming them. As Radia worked her magic on the ivories, I stood in awe of her ability to make complex technology so beautifully and artistically tangible. The music she was playing was composed by her son around a poem that she wrote, called Algorhyme. The poem is an ode to her invention of the Spanning Tree Protocol, one of her innovations in computer networking that was key to driving the growth and development of the Internet. Advertisement Radia designed the layer that essentially transformed Ethernet from a technology limited to a few hundred nodes confined in a single building, into a technology that can create large networks with hundreds of thousands of nodes spread over a large area. Ironically enough, she was given the challenge (to which this invention was the solution) on the Friday before her boss went on vacation and she solved it over the weekend. Radia had so much free time the following week (as this was a time when bosses didn't have cell phones), that she was able to write a poem about her inventive solution. Imagine. A second emotion I experienced, during my time with Radia, was gratitude. I was deeply grateful to have found myself in a career that allows me to capture and share the stories of the remarkable individuals who shape our everyday lives through invention. And these stories make their way beyond blog posts into a variety of platformsfrom the National Inventors Hall of Fame museum to hundreds of classrooms and thousands of children across the country through our Invention Playground, Camp Invention, and Invention Project programs. Through these platforms, our Inductees are not simply revered for their past accomplishments, but rather, their current endeavors in being global change agents and paying their legacies forward. As I head into piloting the latest Camp Invention curriculum this summer, I eagerly anticipate the solutions that children will design in response to the personalized challenges that inventors, like Radia, pose to them. The one-on-one time we spend with our Inductees leads to them posing rich, relevant, and authentic challenges that empower children to engage in real-word problem solving. A third emotion I had, while in that living room, was indebtedness. I was keenly aware that I was indebted to sharing Radia's story with every person who has ever had an idea pushed aside, hushed, or dismissed. "Oh Radia, nobody cares about your layer any more," was the sentiment that she heard in regards to her invention of the Spanning Tree Protocol. Luckily, she ignored this message and forged ahead. Advertisement Fascinating stories, like Radia's are the inspirational foundation from which I design the STEAM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) activities found in our K-12 educational programs. In this way, STEAM is not an acronym we vie to integrate, it is simply a natural part of telling the stories of our Inductees. I am currently and feverishly designing a high-energy, team-building game for kids that is a result of notes I scribbled down on a napkin, while brainstorming with Perlman in a Boston cafe. Thankfully, that won't be the last time I get to spend time with her. When innovators are Inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, they become part of our organization's family. This summer, Radia will be visiting a Camp Invention site in Sammamish, Washington where she will be immersed in the world of inventing through the eyes of elementary students. In the fall, she will be serving as a judge in our Collegiate Inventors Competition, sharing her expertise and enthusiasm with college students hailing from coast to coast. Until I meet up with Radia next, one particular line from her poem, Algorhyme, will stay me: "A mesh is made by folks like me, then bridges find a spanning tree." I am deeply grateful to cross and build bridges with folks like you, Radia Perlman, and I am thrilled that thousands of wide-eyed children across the country will get to know you too. Wicker Park Is Getting Chicago's First Pour-It-Yourself Bar In 2017 By Mae Rice in Food on Jun 29, 2016 8:52PM The future site of Tapster, at 2027 W. North Ave. (Google Street View) If you visit Tapster and get the wrong beer, you really have only yourself to blame. At the bar, coming to Wicker Park in early 2017, you'll pour your craft beer yourself via 40 to 50 self-serve taps, Eater reports. It's sort of like Red Mango, but with beer instead of fro-yo. Which is easy enough to wrap your head around, but it's never actually been done before, according to Eater. Though assorted Chicago bars have self-pour components, Tapster (opening at 2027 W. North Ave.) will be the first bar where self-pouring is the only way to get your beer. Same goes for wine, Prosecco, cocktails and, during the day, kombuchait's all on tap. Not yet, of course. The bar's founder, Roman Maliszewski, just signed a lease on the space, Eater reportsso the bar itself, which will be situated just west of Estelle's, won't open until next year. All the more time to practice your pour! Read Eater's full story here. The following post is the second of a series of excerpts adapted from Unlatched: The Evolution of Breastfeeding and the Making of a Controversy by Jennifer Grayson, which will be out from HarperCollins on July 5 (available here). Image credit: Charles Beaubrun [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons Even before the advent of commercial infant formula, mothers were making personal choices about how to feed their babies. Nearly all children may have been breastfed, but they didn't necessarily have to be breastfed by their own mothers. Next to prostitution, wet-nursing (being hired to breastfeed another woman's child) is perhaps one of the world's oldest professions for women; nearly every advanced civilization employed some version of it. There are countless examples: a Sumerian lullaby from 3000 BC makes mention of a nursemaid suckling; King Tut built a lavish tomb to honor his own wet nurse; Islamic law views two children having suckled milk from the same woman as a lifelong form of kinship equal to that of a blood relative; ancient Romans could bring their hungry infants to the Columna Lactaria for a nursing; and in the medieval kingdom of Castile, wet nurses for royal children were hired for one or two decades and became governesses after weaning. In fact, Mammy -- the house slave character in Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind -- wasn't just the servant who raised Scarlett O'Hara; Mammy had been Scarlett's wet nurse. (More on that conflicted arrangement in a moment.) Advertisement From antiquity through the Middle Ages, a wet nurse was often a convention only for royalty or the very wealthy; most healthy women breastfed their own children. Of course, wet nurses were also employed for abandoned children or when a mother died and left a nursling behind or when she couldn't nurse for medical reasons. (If you ever have a day when you feel like a bad parent, consider the case of Greco-Roman Egypt, where unwanted babies were often tossed on trash heaps and you could snag one for a cheap slave by "saving" it and hiring a wet nurse to feed it.) By the Renaissance, the wet nurse as status symbol had begun to trickle down to the merchant classes. Employing a wet nurse became so commonplace by the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries in certain parts of Western Europe that a mother feeding her own child was considered strange except among the very poor. Sometimes, even wet nurses themselves hired other wet nurses; they would hire themselves out to a wealthy family and then send their own babies to a less expensive wet nurse out in the country, living on the difference. Still, just because people were perpetuating the practice of wet-nursing didn't mean everyone was OK with it. For many, the biological predilection to feed one's own offspring seemed obvious, and in second-century Rome and Greece, philosophers including Pliny and Plutarch spoke out against the practice of wet-nursing among the wealthy. They called attention to the severed bond that resulted between a natural mother and her child, and they even believed that a child could imbibe the physical and mental qualities of the wet nurse via her milk. (This belief persisted through the nineteenth century. In light of a recent study by Harvard (now ASU) evolutionary biologist Katie Hinde, which revealed that baby monkeys' personalities were altered by the cortisol they absorbed from their mother's milk, perhaps the ancients weren't too far off the mark.) Advertisement Preachers and physicians of the Middle Ages advocated maternal breastfeeding, calling attention to the deep connection and love that developed between a nursling and whoever suckled him -- even if that woman was not his birth mother. And later, in Colonial America, the Puritan Reverend Cotton Mather implored women to nurse their own children, admonishing them not to become "one of the Careless Women, Living at Ease." (Never mind that he himself was wet-nursed, as were some of his fifteen children.) Although most Puritans as well as most women in the northern colonies breastfed their own babies (the former viewing it as their duty not just to their children but to God, as well), wet-nursing in Colonial America was certainly common enough to elicit Mather's opposition. Wealthy New World settlers from Spain and France, accustomed to hiring wet nurses of lower social status in their home countries, turned to Native American women, who were viewed as inferiors, to serve as wet nurses. The city of Boston and its surrounds became a thriving market for women seeking employment as such. By the eighteenth century, breast milk was the most frequently advertised vendible in Colonial newspapers. The wet-nursing business wasn't a boon to everyone, of course. In the South, the maternal bond turned maternal shackle in the role of "Mammy." On the plantations, black slave women were stripped of all reproductive rights and exploited to suckle the children of their white masters. The breastfeeding was almost always at the expense of the enslaved women's own children, who either were brutally confiscated or else died as the result of their mothers not being able to feed them regularly. Those slave children who did survive were allowed virtually no connection with their mothers, and weaning was forced early so that slave women could conceive additional slave children (often upwards of fifteen in a lifetime) for their master. Whether it's conscious or not, the emotional scar of this unfathomable history could be one of the reasons why African American women have the lowest breastfeeding rates in the country. And the health of African American children continues to suffer as a result. Black babies are twice as likely to die before their first birthdays as white babies, and as older children, black youth suffer markedly higher occurrences of obesity and asthma. Yet perhaps nowhere else on earth at any point in history did wet-nursing reach the degree it did -- where Mather's "maternal duty" was turned more on its head -- than in eighteenth-century France. There, the business of wet-nursing became so rampant, so nearly universal, that a Parisian police official, Lieutenant General Jean-Charles-Pierre Lenoir, was placed in charge of supervising the referral bureaus parents used to find wet nurses. Lenoir's comprehensive 1780 survey of the twenty-one thousand babies born in the city that year shows that only about 3 percent were breastfed by their own mothers. Another 3 percent or so were fed by hired wet nurses in the homes of the wealthy, with a greater minority of privileged children nursed near their parents' homes. But the vast majority of wet-nursed tots, either castaways or those born to the middle and lower classes (some fifteen thousand infants in that year alone) were placed in foundling hospitals or were shipped off mere days after birth to the countryside, to be nursed and ostensibly nurtured by a stranger who likely corresponded with the birth parents only a few times before returning the child upon weaning years later -- or who would send but a note in the event that the child had died. And there were many, many deaths... ... and there's nary a consumer voice offering an objection, according to Albany-based lobbyist, William Ferris. Ferris, who works for AARP, has spearheaded a campaign to give a voice to those who struggle to pay increasingly heavyweight utility bills. To do that he's supporting a bill in the New York State Legislature that would finally guarantee a place for ratepayers at the regulatory table and while AARP is the signature organization for seniors, it's a fight they've taken on for all ratepayers in the state. It's a modern twist on the old battle cry of the American colonists - "no taxation without representation-" but in this version the AARP has called for representation via a public advocate's office - independent and insulated from political pressure - that can ensure transparency and accountability whenever the utilities (all seven of them) belly up to the regulatory bar looking for rubber stamp approval for rate hikes. Advertisement New York State is only one of ten states - and by far, the largest - that lacks this sort of consumer protection. Ferris and the AARP have thrown their support behind a bill, sponsored by Bronx Assemblyman, Jeffrey Dinowitz, that would create a Utility Consumer Advocate ("UCA") and for the last four years it passed muster in the State Assembly only to stall, sputter and die in the State Senate. Even a recommendation by Governor Cuomo's Moreland Commission on Utility Storm Preparedness, calling for "a robust, permanent, professional consumer advocate office to represent ratepayers," did little to convince/sway those in the State Senate. You can attribute much of that to the lobbying efforts of trade groups like the Energy Coalition, New York, who think things are just hunky-dory, no need to entertain change, and react like inflamed bulls charging a toreador's red cape whenever the issue of a UCA is raised. The Business Council of the State of New York - another group opposing the UCA - claims that the new law "will immediately increase the cost of energy in the State for all consumers." Furthermore, the industry argument goes, why establish another government office that will further pick the taxpayer's pockets? The AARP takes umbrage with this contention laying out its case in a January, 2014, aptly titled report, David v Goliath, Why Consumers are losing New York's utility game. There are loads of states, like Connecticut and Pennsylvania, that have strong consumer utility advocates and their involvement, according to the report, has saved rate payers money in amounts far exceeding the cost incurred in running these offices. Advertisement But here's the real kicker (if you can believe it): the cost of lobbying for rate increases by the utilities - lawyers and other assorted experts - is passed on to the consumer to the tune of $10 million dollars a year! Pure gall, to put it mildly, and it really galls AARP's New York spokesperson, Erik Kriss. We think if ratepayers pay for utility companies' advocacy costs, the ratepayers should have their own, independent, advocate. Fair is fair! Con-Ed has recently filed for another increase that would boost electric rates by 9.5% and natural gas rates by 13.4%, making it more difficult to pay bills for those already struggling to stay afloat and, for seniors, according to the AARP, there's the added dilemma: do I pay the electric bill or do I pay for needed medication? Seniors, seeking to take their medicine and avoid an early exit from this mortal coil may, in fact, find themselves among the 277,000 New York State residents who had their gas and electricity terminated for non-payment during the first eleven months of 2014, according to the latest Public Service Commission statistics. Without the intervention of an independent UCA -- one devoted to wholly looking out for the ratepayer's interests -- many more may find themselves living a Little House on the Prairie existence. Advertisement I did reach out to Con-Ed's spokesperson, Michael Clendenin, for comment but received no response. However, James Denn, the spokesperson for the Public Service Commission, did offer his agency's perspective on the issue of a public advocate: A year or so ago, the Department created a Consumer Advocate position to strengthen the voice of the consumer for all activities overseen by the Commission. The Consumer Advocate ensures that regulated energy, telecommunications and water utilities, as well as third-party energy providers and energy efficiency programs and clean energy initiatives, adhere to best practices in regards to the services provided to customers, with a particular focus on low-income consumers. I've got some skin in this game having gone head to head with Con Ed over billing issues in recent months and I've complained to the Public Service Commission and there's been nothing in the responses that indicate any input from the Public Service's version of a consumer advocate. As the United States commemorates its national independence, the eyes of America will be drawn back to Philadelphia, to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776. According to tradition, after the declaration was publically announced in Philadelphia on July 8, the Liberty Bell rang at Independence Hall, along with other bells throughout the city. Its iconic crack emerged in the 19th century and led to the bell's retirement from use. The bell was then preserved and put on display in Independence Hall in the 1850s as a symbol of liberty. Today, it rests in its own pavilion across from Independence Hall and receives more than a million visitors annually. While the bell has become a symbol of liberty, many often forget that the bell's name was inspired by a quote inscribed on it. The words, drawn from the biblical book of Leviticus, chapter 25, verse 10, state, "Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." Advertisement In its context in Leviticus, this verse details a particular vision of liberty. Leviticus 25 legislates a number of ancient Israelite economic practices. The chapter mandates that Israelites should let their land lie fallow every seven years, resulting in a sabbatical year. At the end of seven of those seven-year cycles, on the fiftieth year, land is to be returned to its original, ancestral owners. This fiftieth year is known as the jubilee year, a name that comes from the Hebrew term for the year (Yovel). The jubilee proclamation of liberty is made at the end of the fall New Year's festival, on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This proclamation of liberty is accompanied by the sounding of trumpets throughout the land. The Israelite practice of jubilee, as described in Leviticus is not unique in the ancient Near East. In fact a word related to the Hebrew word for liberty (deror) in this passage appears in similar decrees throughout the ancient Near East dating back before Leviticus to the second millennium BCE. Those decrees, which were written in the ancient Mesopotamian Akkadian language, employ the term dararum or andararum, a cognate of the Hebrew term. The Hebrew and Akkadian terms share a root, which means "to flow uninhibited," from which the metaphorical meaning, "liberty," is derived. In those decrees, dararum often appears alongside another term, misharum, which means "justice" or "equity." One extensive example of these decrees is the edict of the Babylonian king Ammisaduqa (1646-1626 BCE), issued at the start of his reign. The edict begins with a general statement declaring "justice for the land." The edict then goes on to announce release of debts and freedom for slaves. Ammisaduqa's declaration, however, is not a universal liberty. Only male freeborn citizens and indentured servants received the benefits of freedom from slavery and forgiveness of their debts. Several classes of slaves were unaffected by the decree. This edict is like a lot of other decrees from ancient Mesopotamian society whose scope is also limited to one particular social group or class within that group. In contrast, the declaration of liberty in Leviticus 25 is much more expansive. As the verse inscribed on the Liberty Bell reminds us, that liberty is universally for all the inhabitants of the land of Israel. Everyone benefits from release from slavery, forgiveness of debts, and the return of property leased during the intervening fifty years due to the economic adversity that faced its owners. Advertisement There is, however, little to no evidence that this practice of liberty was ever observed in ancient Israel and that it was anything more than a utopian vision. Nevertheless, it came to be a powerful ideal of liberty and freedom in Western thought. For instance the current pope, Francis II, proclaimed a year of jubilee for the remission of sins in the Roman Catholic Church on December 8, 2015. The inscription on the Liberty Bell reminds us that the tradition of liberty of which the bell is a part also has powerful economic and social dimensions. In the eighteenth century, the quote on the Liberty Bell and its expansive message of liberty enabled the bell to become a powerful symbol of the United States' freedom from Great Britain. In the nineteenth century, those seeking the abolition of slavery in the United States also appealed to its promise of freedom from slavery for the United States and "all the inhabitants thereof." In the early twentieth century, the movement for voting rights for women in the United States again looked to the bell as a symbol of the ideal of liberty and equality Brexit has been viewed by some commentators as a protest vote against the globalisation paradigm. As the Internet is the technological basis for global integration, and the medium through which billions of people experience globalisation, Brexit should make us think more seriously about the future of the Internet. The shifting paradigms of globalisation and integration are likely to directly affect the Internet. Thus, the Internet we have today should not be taken for granted. This is also an echoing message in the latest research and studies dealing with the future of the Internet. Earlier this year, the World Bank's report on Digital Dividends issued the first major warning about clouds in the Internet's blue sky. The World Bank claimed that the dividends (benefits) of Internet growth are neither as big nor as evenly distributed as is often claimed. In particular, productivity has not risen in the Internet era, more jobs have been lost than have been created, and politics has not become more inclusive. According to the report, the gap between the promises of the digital era and its real impact is widening (just as the gap between expectations and reality was behind quite a few of the Brexit votes). The World Economic Forum report on Internet Fragmentation outlined the risks of technological, governmental, and commercial fragmentation of the Internet. The report argued that we may end up with many Internets divided by national, corporate, and other border lines. (Read our analysis of both reports in Issue 7 of the Geneva Digital Watch newsletter.) Advertisement Last week, the Global Commission for Internet Governance (GCIG) joined the chorus of alerts on the future of the Internet. In presenting the GCIG's new report, One Internet, Commission President Carl Bildt said: 'The Internet is at a crossroad. Threats to privacy and other risks that may bring the Internet down are real.' On Brexit, Bildt issued a similar warning when he said that 'the virus of political divorce has certainly proved contagious - and a more fragmented Europe is undoubtedly a less safe one.' While the three Internet reports are solid on diagnosis, they are weaker when it comes to presenting possible solutions. The reports dwell on the problem of lack of trust and the need to build trust (this element is mentioned more than 70 times in the GCIG's One Internet report). The message is that trust matters and that it takes time to develop. Britain now faces a similar problem not only with its European partners, but also with the rating agencies: to rebuild a broken relationship and build trust to move forward after the Brexit vote. It's difficult to disagree. But just what does trust mean in the context of the Internet? This blog post on online trust explains some of the elements of trust in the online world (including transparency in the use of data, clear terms of use, and balance in the roles and interests of different parties). And how can trust be developed? Trust-building in the online world, just like in the offline world, can be accelerated in three ways: by ensuring that the democratic choices made by citizens have a real impact, by making institutions and systems more predictable and reliable, and by aiming towards more fairness in society. Advertisement When democratic choices lead to real impact, this increases the legitimacy of institutions. I have experienced this over the last 25 years living in Malta and Switzerland, two countries where citizens' political choices are genuinely respected, and not just taken as a 'formality'. Such democratic practices increase citizens' trust in government, and ultimately make society more inclusive, prosperous, and stable. This applies in all fields, including the Internet. Predictability also matters as much on the Internet as in real life. In order to lay plans for the future, people need to have trust in the system. Most studies on prosperous societies point to the existence of predictable and reliable institutions. Trust in institutions and in the rule of law is considered one of the main reasons for the success of Silicon Valley; this trust frees time for innovation and creativity. Fairness increases legitimacy and societal buy-in. As the World Bank report points out, the distribution of the digital dividends of Internet growth has not been particularly fair, and those who benefit least feel this. While Uber, Airbnb, and similar companies introduce many innovations through the collaborative economy, they also have to contribute to local communities worldwide. For example, somebody has to pay for the roads on which Uber cars drive. When Internet companies do not pay taxes, it matters even more than in the case of other industries (e.g. commodities, oil industry). The business model of the Internet is based on social capital financed by taxpayers. The collaborative economy built around online platforms would not exist without a collaborative society based on respect for human rights, support for education, and social inclusion. Trust and new Internet Compact/Contract? The journey of building trust in digital politics is likely to be . On this journey, the key is to avoid hype and empty rhetoric, and focus on real concerns. The good news is that, while all Internet governance actors may be seen as having legitimate interests, they also have limited power to dominate the policy sphere. A balance of sorts already exists. Governments have a legitimate interest to protect national security and citizens' safety, but their power to control online developments and data flows especially with encrypted data is limited. Advertisement For Internet companies, such as Facebook and Google, a global Internet is at the core of their business model. In addition, users' trust in online business depends on the protection of data. Technically speaking, companies have the encryption power to protect data, as the Apple-FBI controversy has shown. However, this technical power can be reduced if they are legally obliged to provide access to user's data in specific cases. For Internet users worldwide, the Internet is a great enabler, whether we speak of families keeping in touch via Skype or WhatsApp, social activists working together to address injustices, or academics networking for the purposes of research. The power of Internet users is largely paradoxical. On the one hand, users have the ultimate power in the digital realm, which they exercise by using or not using specific Internet platforms. On the other hand, Internet users have limited operational power in the digital realm compared, in particular, to governments and the business sector, both of which have the means and the tools to affect digital policies directly. The mix of legitimate interests and limited power on the part of the main actors provides some optimism for future Internet developments, even in the days where post-Brexit pessimism dominates most public discussions. However, even with a good basis, compromise does not happen on its own. It requires a lot of patient work and awareness that public decisions depend both on logos (rationality) and pathos (emotions). Original post at DiploFoundation. When you are facing divorce, one of the first questions that comes to mind (after OMG, what the @&/$! am I going to do now?!!!) is, "How do I find a good lawyer?" Knowing how to choose a divorce lawyer who will provide you with the legal advice you need, at a price you can afford, and be the right fit for your situation, isn't easy. Here are 10 tips to guide you in your search. 1. Decide what divorce process you want to use. This is the FIRST decision you need to make! You have to decide whether you want to use mediation, litigation, Collaborative Divorce or cooperative divorce. Then you can start looking for a divorce lawyer who is experienced in getting people divorced using that divorce process. In other words, you have to match the lawyer to the divorce process. Otherwise, you are not going to be satisfied with the result you get in your case. 2. Decide what kind of legal service that you need. While everyone who is going through a divorce needs legal advice (at least in my humble opinion!), not everyone needs a $500 per hour big city divorce law firm on their case. Advertisement If you have a lot of assets, own companies, or have a complicated financial situation, then, yes, you are going to need an experienced lawyer, or law firm, who understands finances and is equipped to handle a complicated divorce. If you have a short marriage, no kids, no real estate and are not dividing any retirement plans, then you may be able to get by with a simple consultation with a lawyer. If you don't mind spending some time, and want to save money, you might even be able to use an online document production website to draft your documents. (The documents won't be fabulous, but, if your situation is simple and agreed, they may be "good enough.") 3. Figure out what you can afford. No one wants to pay thousands of dollars (or more) to a divorce lawyer. But, there is such a thing as being penny wise and pound foolish. Advertisement You have to balance the level of legal services that you need with the cost of the services that you can afford. And you have to be honest with yourself. If you own multiple properties and have a six figure salary, you CAN afford a divorce lawyer. The fact that you don't want to pay a divorce lawyer is really beside the point. If you are living paycheck to paycheck, have no equity in your home, and nothing in your savings account, getting an expensive, high-powered divorce lawyer just might make you end up in bankruptcy court! 4. Ask around. The absolute best way to find a good divorce lawyer is, was, and probably always will be, word of mouth. If you know someone who has been through a divorce in the past few years, and was satisfied with their divorce lawyer, get that lawyer's name. Advertisement If you know any non-divorce lawyers, ask them for a referral. Lawyers know each other. Your neighbor who is a real estate lawyer may be able to lead you to an excellent divorce lawyer. 5. Use the internet wisely. Do not get sucked in by the lawyer who has the best website, or is paying to have their ad on the first page of Google! The internet is best used for gathering information and validating referrals. If someone gives you the name of a divorce lawyer whose website looks like it hasn't been updated since Al Gore invented the internet (or worse, who doesn't have a website at all!), that is NOT a good sign. On the other hand, the law firm that has the most amazing, state-of-the-internet new website, full of professional pictures and slick copy, may not be all that much better. 6. Take lawyer ratings with a grain of salt. Lawyer rating agencies are not infallible. A lawyer who chooses not to advertise, or participate in a particular rating site's program, may end up being rated poorly, even though s/he may be an amazing lawyer. Their mediocre rating is really only a reflection of the fact that that lawyer has chosen not to be part of the rating program. Advertisement Another complicating factor is that, due to ethical restrictions, lawyers in some states are prohibited from participating in legal rating websites. Finally, you need to remember that people going through a divorce are not happy. Sometimes, even if a lawyer does an outstanding job for them, those people complain. Their rating of their lawyer may have more to do with them, than it does with their lawyer. 7. Find a lawyer who is experienced in family law. This is not the time you want to talk to your cousin's boyfriend's uncle who specializes in estate planning, but is willing to do you a favor and handle your divorce. You need a lawyer who regularly works in divorce. That doesn't mean that you can't hire a sole practitioner who does other things besides divorce. You just don't want to hire someone who only handles one divorce every couple of years. 8. Interview at least 2 or 3 lawyers before you choose a divorce lawyer. Going to two or three different lawyers' offices and telling your story over and over again can be exhausting. It's tempting to want to just hire the first lawyer you meet. Resist the temptation. Take the time to meet at least two different attorneys. Why? Different lawyers have different perspectives. You may get two very different views on how you should handle your case. Then you can choose the attorney who recommends using the approach you are the most comfortable with. 9. Make a list of questions to ask BEFORE you interview any one. It's normal to be nervous when you go talk to a lawyer, especially about something as personal as divorce. It's also normal to be super-emotional when you are going through a divorce. Advertisement Both of those factors make it more likely that, once you are in an attorney's office, you will forget what you wanted to ask... and you won't remember until after you are back home. Making a list of the important questions you want answered makes it much more likely that you will actually ask, and get an answer to, those questions. 10. Go with your gut. The first nine factors are all very logical and rational. But, when you meet a particular lawyer your gut starts screaming "Run!," then do yourself a favor. Listen to your gut. If you are not sure what your gut is saying, here are a few hints: The lawyer who is right for you will not make you cry. The lawyer will talk in words that you understand, and will not make you feel stupid or unimportant. If you leave an interview with a lawyer and don't feel like s/he heard a word you were saying, that is NOT the lawyer for you. Finally, trust yourself. If you walk out of a lawyer's office and you have that kind of nauseous, uneasy feeling that you get when something is not right, then maybe s/he is not the right lawyer for you. Advertisement So, how to choose the divorce lawyer who will be best for you? Use your head, but pay attention to your gut. What NASA insisted for decades could not be -- a spacecraft using solar energy rather than nuclear power going beyond the orbit of Mars -- will be proven false on Monday, July 4th, Independence Day, when the solar-energized Juno space probe arrives at Jupiter. NASA had maintained that to provide on-board power and heat on spacecraft in deep space, plutonium-powered systems were required -- despite the disaster if there were an accident on launch or in a fall back to Earth and the plutonium was released. I broke the story 30 years ago about how the next mission of NASA's ill-fated Challenger shuttle was to involve lofting a plutonium-powered space probe and I have been reporting in articles, books and on television on the nuclear-in-space issue ever since. If the Challenger accident did not happen in January 1986 but the shuttle exploded on its next scheduled mission, in May 1986, with the plutonium-powered space probe in its cargo bay, the impacts could have been enormous. Plutonium is the most lethal of all radioactive substances. Advertisement Still, when NASA re-scheduled the two plutonium-powered missions it had planned for 1986 -- one the Galileo mission to Jupiter -- it not only publicly declared that plutonium systems to provide on-board power for space probes in deep space were necessary but swore to that in court. Opponents of the Galileo mission brought suit in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. in 1989 seeking to stop the nuclear-energized Galileo shot because of its public health danger in the event of an accident, and they pressed NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) on the availability of a safe energy alternative. NASA and DOE officials swore that only nuclear power would do that far out in space, that solar energy could not be harvested beyond the orbit of Mars. And now comes NASA's own Juno spacecraft energized by solar energy functioning in deep space. Indeed, NASA acknowledges, "This is the first time in history a spacecraft is using solar power so far out in space." Says Bruce Gagnon, coordinator of the Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space: "All during out campaigns to oppose NASA plutonium launches during 1989, 1990 and 1997" -- when NASA launched its Cassini space probe with the most plutonium NASA ever used in a power system on a spacecraft -- "the space agency maintained in court and in the media that solar would not work as an on-board power source in deep space. Then, in part because of grassroots pressure from around the planet, NASA decided to use solar on the deep space Juno mission." Advertisement "To this day," Gagnon went on last week, "NASA still maintains that it must use deadly nuclear devices on some of its space missions -- further evidence that the nuclear industry maintains a stranglehold on the space agency. The nuclear industry mistakenly views space as a new market for its toxic product that so many have rejected back here on Earth." Gagnon added: "We will continue to organize to stop the nuclearization of space -- and we will use NASA's own Juno mission as evidence that the bad seed of nuclear power is not essential for space exploration." The Global Network -- www.space4peace.org -- established in 1992, is based in Maine. Juno is not a minor space mission. As NASA states on its Juno mission web page-="The primary scientific goal of the Juno mission is to significantly improve our understanding of the formation, evolution and structure of Jupiter. Concealed beneath a dense cover of clouds, Jupiter, the archetypical 'Giant Planet,' safeguards secrets to the fundamental processes underlying the early formation of our solar system. Present theories of the origin and early evolution of our solar system are currently at an impasse. Juno will provide answers to critical science questions about Jupiter, as well as key information that will dramatically enhance present theories about the early formation of our own solar system." Juno will, as of Monday, have flown nearly 2 billion miles to reach Jupiter. It was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida on August 5, 2011. It did a "slingshot maneuver" or "flyby" of Earth in October 2013 to increase its velocity. It has been flying at 60,000 miles per hour. It will orbit Jupiter more than 30 times doing scientific observations. And although sunlight at Jupiter is just four percent of what it is on Earth, Juno's solar panels, manufactured by Spectrolab, a division of Boeing, will be able to continue to harvest solar energy. Its passes will include bringing it closer to Jupiter than any mission before. Advertisement On its current "Where is Juno?" page, NASA reports: "The Juno spacecraft is in excellent health and is operating nominally." The solar energy on 66-foot wide Juno is being generated by three large solar panels. They convert sunlight to electricity at a 28 percent efficiency rate. That's a little over the 25 percent efficiency rate of the better photovoltaic rooftop panels now being widely used for electric power on Earth. The cost of the mission is $1.1 billion. Says NASA on its website: "To answer our fundamental questions about origins we especially need to know Jupiter's internal structure and global water abundance. Juno will map the internal structure by studying its influence on the planet's gravitational field with unprecedented accuracy. The water abundance will be determined by microwave radiometers that will detect thermal radiation from deep atmospheric layers, a completely new approach. Water ice brought most of the heavy elements to Jupiter. Knowing the water abundance will tell us the original form of that ice and hence help define the conditions and processes in the original cloud of dust and gas that led to the origin of Jupiter. Those same conditions and processes were forming other planets too. Because this enormous planet contains most of the water in the solar system we can expect this investigation to help us understand the origin of the life-giving water on Earth." At the end of its mission NASA will send Juno diving into Jupiter and it will burn up. "NASA going green with solar-powered Jupiter probe," was the headline of an Associated Press article in USA Today in 2011. "NASA's upcoming mission to Jupiter can't get much greener than this: a solar-powered, windmill-shaped spacecraft," the story began. Advertisement But it wasn't as if solar on Juno was NASA's first choice. The Associated Press piece described Scott Bolton, the principal investigator for the mission for the Southwest Research Institute, a NASA contractor, as maintaining "the choice of solar was a practical one... No plutonium-powered generators were available to him and his San Antonio-based team... so they opted for solar panels rather than develop a new nuclear source." The article quoted Bolton as saying: "It's nice to be green, but it wasn't because we were afraid of plutonium." As bullish as NASA has been in using nuclear power on space probes, once it was as insistent in utilizing atomic energy to power space satellites, too. Then, in 1964, a satellite with a SNAP-9A plutonium system on board failed to achieve orbit and dropped to Earth, disintegrating as it fell, its plutonium fuel dispersing all over the Earth. Long linking the SNAP-9A accident to an increase in lung cancer on Earth was the late Dr. John Gofman, an M.D. and Ph.D., discover of several radioactive isotopes who did extensive experiments with plutonium for the Manhattan Project, and was associate director of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. With the SNAP-9A accident, NASA switched to using solar energy on satellites. Now all satellites -- and the International Space Station -- are solar powered. "A Juno success would be a good sign for future solar-powered missions of all types," stated the Associated Press "NASA going green with solar-powered Jupiter probe" article. Unfortunately, if NASA and the DOE have their way, rational energy decision-making won't necessarily follow a Juno success. "The United States has begun manufacturing nuclear spacecraft fuel for the first time in a generation," reported SpaceNews last month. SpaceNews said the Department of Energy is having its Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Idaho National Laboratory join together to produce plutonium for NASA space missions. Some plutonium has been produced although "full production of the stuff is still seven years or so away," it said. Advertisement In space as on Earth, solar power works. But, says Gagnon, "Just like here on Earth there is a tug-of-war going on between those who wish to promote life-giving solar power and those who want nukes. That same battle for nuclear domination is being taken into the heavens by an industry that wants more profit -- no matter the consequences. The Global Network will continue to organize around the space nuclear power issue by building a global constituency opposed to the risky and unnecessary nukes in space program." Credo Annie Jackson is a merchant and marketer with more than 20 years of experience and a track record for driving successful specialty retail businesses across multiple brands and channels. Prior to Credo, Jackson was Director of Product Marketing for Benefit Cosmetics where she was responsible for the product development team, as well as brand strategy analysis for new product launches in new markets. Jackson's career began at Estee Lauder where she was responsible for implementing the inventory planning division. She advanced quickly in the company in marketing and merchandising before being recruited to join the founding merchant team that started Sephora in the US & Japan. How has your life experience made you the leader you are today? I started in the beauty business at 19 working for Estee Lauder at a regional office in San Francisco. Unprepared for the workforce is an understatement...I had to borrow a pair of black pumps from my mom for the interview. I'm pretty sure no 19 year old wants to wear anything of their mothers, but I got the call for the interview and had to be there in exactly one hour. The extent of the position was to basically run errands and retrieve lunch for people and coordinate visits from the Lauders and their senior execs. I literally started at the bottom and was given, what I still consider today, the opportunity of a lifetime back then. Advertisement I gradually worked my way up within Estee Lauder. I was in marketing in NY when a recruiter called me and wanted to discuss a concept called Sephora. After meeting the Sephora team and understanding the concept, it seemed too intriguing to pass up. No one had ever heard of Sephora (or could really pronounce it) and a single store had not yet to open. My friends and family thought I was crazy...jumping ship from such a prestigious company to a total unknown. I was, in fact, terrified - I have always had a fierce desire to support myself, and be financially independent. So a move made me pretty fearful. Sephora was not only one of the best experiences of my life, but it made me 100% empathize with people that start a position and feel a ton of ambition, but might not yet have the work experience yet to get where they want to be right away. So, if I have any opportunity to lead that certain type of person who is up for anything, and ready to roll up their sleeves to accomplish things - that is something I love. Guiding people to work hard, to remind them to feel grateful for the opportunity they have been given and to be patient is something that is really rewarding, because I have absolutely been there. How has your previous employment experience aided your position at Credo Beauty? I have been in beauty a long time, but I took a departure for a few years and owned my own retail store. I thought I had worked hard in the past...how wrong I was. Working retail, and owning a retail store is humbling, physically exhausting and incredibly fun. So, for me, Credo is this very fortuitous coming together of all of these experiences. One aspect of Credo that I was not prepared for was how personal this journey would become. I have dedicated much of my career to working for conventional beauty brands, not understanding the impact that the chemicals in many of these brands' products have on human health and our environment. Credo is creating a place for women to find clean beauty brands that have beautiful formulas and packaging, work effectively and have incredibly unique ingredient combinations. But more importantly, they are all absent of all harmful ingredients, like petroleum derived chemicals, or formaldehyde or phthalates to name a few. And the people behind these brands are inspired, creative people that come from different backgrounds that were moved to create these incredible brands. Typically, it is a culmination of their heritage, life experience, or, for many, a health crisis that has affected them in some way to create a brand they trust and feel good using. Because they are true artisans - they have such an individual approach to quality, style and originality that the end result is something that you know is totally personal. Because shopping for beauty is intimate and emotional, I feel like the authentic person who created each of these products is really woven into what you see on the shelf. It has made this experience really very impactful on my own life. Advertisement What have the highlights and challenges been during your tenure at Credo Beauty? It has truly been all incredibly good. I love a good challenge, and figuring out ways to get things done. I work for and with someone I have admired and trusted and known a very long time, and our team is made up of people that I consider close friends. Credo is my other family. I think our challenge right now is that we are a small team with big ideas and we need to constantly figure out how best to use our resources. It never ceases to amaze me how much you really can accomplish with very few people. It reminds me of when we rolled out Sephora in the U.S. No one knew what it was, and as we presented the idea to brands for the first time, many of the bigger brands at that time told us this "would never work". It's fun to think about now, but it was certainly challenging while it was happening. Now, the tables are turned. Today, we have found this incredible surge of clean and beautiful brands excited to find a place that totally supports their vision and positioning. Credo has developed a real community and camaraderie...we are all in this together. It feels really good. What advice can you offer to women who want to work in your industry? Network like crazy and don't be afraid to reach out and talk to people. Don't be intimidated by position or someone's title. Social media and networking makes this so much easier now. You can really do your homework finding out about people and businesses and if they are open to meeting with you, they will respond. We have a lot of people that email us out of the blue and just want to ask a few questions and understand the market and opportunities better. I always admire that because it takes a lot of guts and passion to do that. How do you maintain a work/life balance? It is easy to set up shop really wherever I go, and our team is really supportive of each other. Honestly, I feel like it is such a luxury to be able to get work done anywhere I am at any time. It's also easy for me to close my laptop when everyone is home and spend time together as a family. If I need to, I can get work done after they go to bed. I feel very lucky that my family has been very supportive of me throughout my career. Not to mention, they are huge fans of Credo - so they are really behind this in a big way. What do you think is the biggest issue for women in the workplace? When my kids were little, I struggled a lot with feeling guilty for being away from home. As a merchant, I traveled quite a bit and felt like I was letting them down and putting too much pressure on my family to pick up the slack. I see now that my kids are proud of me, and I hope they are learning from me that they should follow their hearts in what they choose to do in their life so it won't be "work" per se, but feeling fulfilled in doing something they love. If that happens, it will make me incredibly happy. Advertisement How has mentorship made a difference in your professional and personal life? It has made a huge difference, and I feel so lucky to have met so many of the people I have and to have learned from them. Shashi Batra is our founder, and I have known him since those very early days at Sephora. I started working for him in 1998 as a merchant and have learned a tremendous amount from him and gained a great friend in the process. We have experienced a lot together, and building this business together means so much more because of that. We understand each other really well. The fact that Credo is truly evolving into the vision he had for it at its inception makes me really proud of him and our team. I will never take for granted the opportunity I was given to have someone come into my life and take an interest, and really make an impact on how my career evolved is tremendous. I welcome the opportunity to pay it forward any chance I get, but it takes a certain kind of person that is open to feedback and really wants to learn and is willing to do anything. It's not that everyone has to be scrappy to succeed, it just shows that they understand the bigger picture that they are a contributor that is part of a team all striving toward the same holistic vision. So don't get hung up on doing tasks that are not in your "job description". Which other female leaders do you admire and why? In beauty, I have worked with a lot of incredibly successful and inspiring women. But I have always hugely admired Estee Lauder for what she created. She literally got out there and did it herself, and was fearless. She heard "no" countless times and forged ahead. She single-handedly created a business that provided countless opportunities for women that changed the landscape of beauty and what it is today. I was able to meet her once during my time at Estee Lauder, and was completely star struck. I'm sure if she were to do it all again today she would make her products more conscientiously and sustainably. Outside of beauty, I have always been impressed with Mary Barra, CEO of GM. I know most people root for the one that has worked their way to top - and I am no different. But what an incredibly challenging first few years she had, on top of what was already a very daunting position. Not only has she navigated GM out of what could have been a complete implosion, she has brought them to the top. She also takes time to speak out for the need of more women in leadership roles, particularly in heavily male-dominated fields. As a mom to a teenage girl, I really admire her and am thankful that because of people like her the future for girls everywhere is overflowing with opportunities. The world is breathless about Brexit. I get it. If the United Kingdom leaves the European Union it will be very bad news for the British, European and world economies. It will also create big question marks for the environment because of the long-standing role of EU environmental laws in Britain. And, of course, the root causes of the shocking result are lessons we need to quickly learn in the United States and around the world about economic justice, xenophobia and demagoguery. But let's not forget about the other important events that also occurred this week which, unlike Brexit, sent strong signals to the rest of the world about the power and momentum of international cooperation. Yesterday, at the North American Leaders Summit, the United States, Mexico and Canada -- a regional economy larger than Europe -- doubled down on working together, setting joint goals and collaborating to achieve them. And, they did it on the mother-of-all global challenges: averting climate collapse. As President Obama said yesterday in addressing the Canadian parliament, "there is one threat that we cannot solve militarily and we cannot solve alone - climate change." Yesterday was the first time that these three national governments met when all were aligned on the urgent need to face climate disruption. With this dawning truth and growing support for action among their people, the three leaders announced a set of joint actions. Advertisement At the core are two new lode stars for North America- powering the continent with at least 50% clean electricity in less than a decade, and cutting the super-pollutant methane by 40-45% - also by 2025. These are not small goals. Achieving them will require particularly strong leadership from the United States, which is by far the largest consumer of electricity and source of methane among the three countries. A shared North American vision for both electricity and methane is important because power and pipeline infrastructure doesn't stop at national borders - and neither do climate change impacts. Think disappearing ice in the US and Canadian Arctic to mega-droughts and wildfires raging along the Canadian and American west to the super-storms that batter the US and the Mexican coastlines. By developing content-wide energy goals, our leaders are building a foundation of solidarity, rather than division, on the biggest challenge the world has ever seen. And, we'll reap enormous benefits from this holistic approach: by managing our electricity supply together, North America can push even faster toward an economy powered by 100% renewable energy, creating new jobs and leaving nuclear and fossil fuels fully behind. This collaborative approach builds on momentum generated in Paris last December when world leaders created the first truly global agreement to fight climate change. While this agreement catapulted climate to the top of the world's agenda, and created huge momentum that is still being felt in energy markets and public conversation, it was not enough. There is a major gap between the emissions cuts agreed to in Paris and the ambition we need to get on track to limit global warming to 1.5 degree Celsius - the new global goal set in Paris. This is partially because the Paris deal was mostly about what countries were willing to do on their own, rather than how to do more together. Advertisement The time has come for countries to work together to beat their targets by doing more cooperatively. Like moving your refrigerator or getting your car out of a ditch, confronting climate change is something individuals or countries cannot do alone. To avert climate collapse, we have no choice but to search high and low for ways to do more together. Yesterday's agreement was a strong first step in that direction, but it should not be the last: there are more opportunities on the table for cooperation between US, Canada and Mexico. For example, in Paris, Mexico laid out plans to nearly double its proposed pollution reduction target with support from countries like its neighbors to the north. That wasn't included in yesterday's announcement. With the strong foundation established this week, North American leaders should take up this additional challenge of supporting Mexico in meeting its more ambitious goal. The story that is now emerging to explain Donald Trump and Brexit -- at least among thoughtful analysts -- goes as follows: Political and business elites, with their retinue of experts in tow, sold globalization and free trade to the voters in the world's leading democracies on the grounds that it would make those countries even richer. And it did, but a very large fraction of the workers in those countries did not see their condition improve at all and a smaller fraction suffered terribly, while the political and professional elites got filthy rich. It was those same elites, of course, who, in their moral superiority, were opening up their country's borders to immigrants willing to take the few jobs that were left for the ordinary workers and do it for a pittance, driving those ordinary workers to unemployment and from there to drink, drugs and suicide. So, finally, the majorities who were patronized and ignored by the elites have risen up in one of history's great 'peasant revolts.' The solution: renegotiate the trade treaties (or, if you are in the EU, get out of it, which amounts to the same thing) and stop the flow of immigrants. But it is too late. The cat is out of the bag. In 1990, 12 years after Deng Xiaoping opened China to foreign investment, manufacturing wages in China's coastal provinces were one one-hundredth of American manufacturing wages. Companies that did not take advantage of that cost differential would be put out of business by companies that did. But manufacturing wages in China's coastal provinces were recently about one quarter of American manufacturing wages. Chinese companies are now outsourcing more and more of their low-value-added manufacturing to lower cost countries in Southeast Asia and manufacturing is returning to the United States in the form of high value-added manufacturing Advertisement But manufacturing jobs are not returning to the United States. Foxconn, the giant Taiwanese manufacturing company that makes smart phones and computer equipment for the likes of Apple and Hewlett Packard in China, is now buying hundreds of thousands of robots to replace human workers in their Chinese manufacturing plants. The robots can do the work more reliably at less cost than the humans they are replacing, and they do not strike or require dormitories, cafeterias or days off. The manufacturing that is returning to the United States will mostly be done by automated machinery, not people. The Chinese are in a race with technology. If the millions of workers who moved from the formerly destitute interior provinces to places on the coast like Shenzen, the vast industrial center near Hong Kong, cannot develop the knowledge and skills needed to do the high-value-added work the computers cannot do, they will get rolled by the machines and be just as out of work as the Americans who were previously put out of work by low-wage, low-skill Chinese. There is no treaty that will solve this problem, either for the Chinese or the Americans. We are all in the same boat now. Highly educated and trained workers can use intelligent machinery to greatly extend their capacity to get their work done. But workers -- whether they are Chinese or American or Brits -- who have only basic skills will be replaced by these machines. They will either work for a pittance or have no work at all. This process is going on all around us, right now. Advertisement But what about the immigration part of this argument? How does that fit into this story? First, note that none of the advanced industrial countries are being overwhelmed by destitute and desperate Chinese who cannot find work in their own country and are willing to risk their own lives and those of their family to get into our countries. That is because, over the last half-century, 600 million Chinese entered the middle class for the first time, an accomplishment without precedent in world history. The Chinese did not want to be poor forever. They wanted to get rich. Yes, the Chinese greatly improved their standard of living by offering their services to the world's manufacturers at bargain prices, but they knew from the beginning that they would not get rich without a literate workforce that could do the work to global standards. The effort they made to educate and train their people so they could do the work that would enable them to enter the world's middle class was nothing short of astonishing. When they began, the vast majority of their adults were illiterate, enrollment of their primary school age students was low and few of their secondary age students were in any sort of schools. Their university sector was nearly nonexistent. Now, Shanghai, a province of 24 million people, leads the world in primary and secondary education, according to the OECD, there is near universal adult literacy and their university sector is very large and growing fast. So, if the immigrants are not coming from China, because the opportunities in China are so much more attractive than they used to be, then where are they coming from? The answer, in a nutshell, is countries that have failed to educate their citizens, most notably, the Middle East and North Africa. Polish plumbers are an irritant to English plumbers, but the real issue is large numbers of desperate refugees from countries in the Middle East and North Africa where far too many schools are not much more than incubators of the kind of resentment and hate sponsored by the Wahabi sect and others like them. These are not educational institutions so much as indoctrination centers. The places that are the source of the immigration that is most destabilizing in the advanced industrial countries are poor countries with skyrocketing populations of very young people whose employment prospects are slim to nonexistent, not least because they do not have the education and skills required to compete in a world in which automated equipment is steadily wiping out the jobs at the bottom of the skills ladder. Advertisement And that is what binds the coal miner on America's Cumberland Plateau to the Chinese tiller of his small plot of vegetables in Chengdu to the unemployed 21-year-old in Albania considering joining ISIS to the young Libyan militiaman who has never had a job and has no prospect of getting one. What binds them all together is the resentment and anger that come from being left out, shoved aside, uneducated, unemployable and humiliated. Some, of course, literally have no education, but many have 7th or 8th grade literacy. The problem, as I pointed out above, is that 7th or 8th grade literacy is no longer enough if wages in your country start to rise. If you are Chinese and that is all the skill you have, someone in Vietnam will do the jobs that can be done with that level of skill for less. If you are Vietnamese, someone in Bangladesh is happy to do it for less. And, as it turns out, those Vietnamese and Bangladeshis may never get a chance to offer their services at all, because robots can probably do the job more cheaply and reliably than they can, if not today, then certainly tomorrow. Which brings me back to the United States. The majority of our high school graduates have no more than a 7th or 8th grade education. It is just as true for them as it is for their Chinese counterparts that they will be put out of work either by Vietnamese or the Bangladeshis or, much more likely, by a robot if they do not find a way to get a far better education and much more specialized technical education. The young girls wore their turquoise blue platform heels, make-up and hair done impeccably, as they walked down the aisle to graduate from high school. The boys wore suits and ties and smiles as each one accepted their diploma. The hundreds of parents under the large tent in the yard of the school cried. The kids cheered afterwards and threw their hats in the air. Sounds like your typical high school graduation except for one difference - this took place in Haiti last weekend at the Academy for Peace and Justice in Port au Prince. It was the first graduating class of the largest free secondary school in all of Haiti. Around 50 of us from the Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ) family, founded by director Paul Haggis, attended the celebration - among them Donna Karan, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor, and Susan Sarandon. We had all been there from the beginning, watching a large dirt field turn into a beautiful institution for learning and hope. We cried our eyes out and smiled, inspired to see first-hand what education can do to change lives. Advertisement A week after the devastating earthquake in Haiti in 2010 that took more than 300,000 lives and destroyed entire towns, Paul and I and some others made our way to Port au Prince. Upon our return to LA a few days later, Paul, myself and some friends plopped down our dirty backpacks on the floor of his beautiful home in Santa Monica and entered the back yard where 100 or so of the most famous faces in Hollywood sat. In one hour millions of dollars were pledged to build the only free high school in Haiti. The school was the brainchild of Father Rick Frechette and Paul Haggis, who agreed that the best way to invest in Haiti after the earthquake would be to build a free high school for the very poor - something that had never existed before. Father Rick and his incredible team at the St. Luke Foundation for Haiti, along with APJ's Bryn Mooser, ran the project from rubble to revolution. There are so many needs in Haiti and much to be done but they knew in the long-term, to be sustainable and to build back Haiti better, it would take educating the poorest of the poor. And now here we were, six years later, with 150 kids who live in the poorest area of the western hemisphere, graduating and looking towards the future. Many of those beautiful girls and handsome young men walking down the aisle got dressed in tiny one room tin shacks with no running water. Most were the first ones in their families to ever graduate from High school. Now with the new wing of the school opening for the arts, which Ben Stiller, Christine Taylor and others built, the school will have 2600 students next year. 2600 young adults who will walk away with degrees and CV's and be able to find jobs. The same young people that have the opportunity to shape the future of the beautiful but challenged nation of Haiti. Advertisement I read an article once again last week about a large aid organization that raised a half a billion dollars after the earthquake and the question is still "Where did all of that money go?" I would like to know myself, as I have seen their supposed projects that have never turned into anything. With that sort of money and the spirit and perseverance of Father Rick and his Haitian family, the whole country would have had free education. The Academy for Peace and Justice is a testament to our shared commitment to keeping promises and delivering them. Join us as a member of the APJ family -- not only to help Haiti and to simply hope you will make a difference. The Academy is not about Hope. It is about Action, and Results, doing what seems impossible, one step down the aisle at a time. CTA Brown Line Service Was Temporarily Halted Due To 'Suspicious' Package By Rachel Cromidas in News on Jun 30, 2016 6:17PM Photo by Jazmin Medrano/Chicagoist Flickr Pool. The CTA halted Brown Line train service on the Near North Side for over an hour Thursday due to a suspicious package. Chicago's Police Bomb Unit investigated the package, which was near the Sedgwick Station in Old Town around 11:00 a.m., police told the Sun-Times. Meanwhile, Brown Line train service was suspended between the Fullerton and Chicago stations. Police allowed train service resumed across the entire Brown Line shortly after 1 p.m., according to CTA reps: On this Independence Day weekend, as you celebrate our nation's freedom, I ask that you also give thanks for our wartime allies. Many veterans can point to a moment when one of these allies saved our lives or the lives of our fellow Americans -- often by taking up arms against our common enemies. They acted because they believed in America, in our mission, and in the promise that was given. On Sunday, the Sacramento Bee, published a series of articles that examines the practical application of that promise. Its verdict: America isn't keeping its promise. Take the case of Abdul Farhad Ghafoori. "Abdul misses the sense of purpose he felt in war...[He] earns $10 an hour for working from 8:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. During the day, he watches his son and daughter so his wife can attend English class. He's also looking for a better-paying job with health care. His family's one-bedroom apartment on the second story of a building on Bell Street is dark and gloomy, facing a brick wall and a chain-link fence, but it's better than the first-floor apartment where he and his family were resettled upon their arrival in August 2015. Their first night, they were besieged by roaches and bedbugs. His crying children were left covered with inflamed red bites." I run a non-profit called No One Left Behind. I founded it with my brother Janis, the Afghan translator who saved my life. Our organization helps our wartime allies in Afghanistan and Iraq acquire the Special Immigrant Visas they've earned through service to our country. We welcome them at the airport, find them a place to live, furnish their homes for free, buy them a car, and find them a job and a mentor to help guide them as they join our country. We are desperate to open a chapter in Sacramento - we estimate there are 7,000 Afghans in need of our aid there - to ensure that what happened to Abdul never happens again to another of our veterans. That's why No One Left Behind exists - to keep America's promise to all of our veterans. And make no mistake about it - our translators are as much of a veteran as I am. The only difference between me and Janis, my translator, is that I won the birth lottery. I did one tour of duty, was injured and can go to the VA for health care. Then there's my brother Janis, who spent eight years in combat on the front lines, saving the lives of five Americans, and he doesn't get to go to the VA and get help for the six times he was blown up. Recently, Congress failed to keep that promise. For the first time in four years, Congress chose not to authorize any additional visas for Afghans. What kind of message have we sent to the Afghans currently serving alongside the nearly 10,000 Americans serving in Afghanistan? We fear that it conveys that America has abandoned them, and in kind, they are now free to abandon our forward deployed troops. What incentive would any Afghan or other ally have to cooperate with and serve alongside the U.S. military? Congressional inaction is putting our military at risk in Afghanistan and elsewhere. Thankfully, Senators Shaheen (D-NH) and McCain (R-AZ) and Representatives Kinzinger (R-IL), Blumenauer (D-OR), and Moulton (D-MA) - our tireless champions on the Hill - are not done fighting. At the urging of Senator Shaheen, the Senate Appropriations Committee voted unanimously to approve an additional 4,000 visas for Afghans (to be issued over the coming years). While its not yet law, we hope the Congress will pass the program swiftly - as experts expect the State Department to run out of visas by then end of the year. Advertisement Since our founding in October 2013, the American people have helped us resettle over 2,000 people - veterans and their families who now live freely in the country they helped defend. On our Independence Day, I ask that you give a moment to thank them and all of our veterans - for without their service and sacrifice, none of us would be free. Adoption provides children a "better" life with more opportunities, right? There are no differences in how adopted children are loved, cared for and especially in regards to their legal rights, right? Legally adopted children are the full legal children of their adoptive parents, and entitled to all the rights and responsibilities as any other children, right? Adoptees are "the same as if" they were born in to their families, right? It is not always so. Adoptees - including those born in this country and therefore naturalized citizens - are denied access to their own original birth certificate in the majority of US states. These discriminatory laws sealing birth certificates from the person named therein, apply ONLY to adopted citizens and thus are contradictory to the 14th amendment's equal protection clause which guarantees that all laws apply equally to all citizens. Advertisement Those adopted internationally face additional difficulties, in particular challenges to their citizenship. The United States began Intercountry Adoption (ICA) in the early 1940s and adopts more children from abroad than any other country. Transnational adoptions grew in popularity following the World War II -- at least 50,000 took place from 1948 to 1969 with the Holt agency created in 1956 specifically to adopt "war orphans" from Korea. Adam Crapser, former barbershop owner and auto-insurance claims estimator, husband and father, became the face of U.S. adoptees battling against deportation. He is far from the only one. Advertisement Like Adam, thousands of international adoptees do not have U.S. citizenship, though American agencies approved their entry, bringing these children to here to become legal members of their families and full-fledged Americans. Some adoptees have been deported back to South Korea, a country they do not remember and whose language and culture are unknown to these American-raised persons. Following are vignettes of some of the thousands of others whose lives are impacted by a major loophole in the Child Citizenship Act (CCA). Mike "Mike" arrived in the U.S. when he was 8, as part of what is known as the greatest humanitarian act of all times, also known as Operation Babylift. He learned at 29 years of age that he was not a U.S. citizen and was an "illegal alien." "I spent the next 13 years of my life struggling to establish my status in the United States and struggling to understand what went wrong. I had my adoption decree, birth certificate, my high school diploma, my honorable discharge paperwork from the United States Air Force, college degree and 20 years of memories of a life in America. How could I NOT be a U.S. citizen?" Aimee Aimee was adopted from Korea on an IR-4 visa. Raised in Minnesota, Aimee was shocked to learn from INS that she was not naturalized and had an expired resident status. Advertisement Her adoptive parents claimed that they didn't know about the need for naturalization but it is difficult to know for sure as they were emotionally abusive, even threatening to send her back to Korea. A permanent citizen now, but her lack of legal citizenship status and green card expiration prevented her from getting an "above-the-table" job and she was not able to afford the exorbitant renewal fees. She struggled with homelessness, and unstable employment for many years. Ella Ella and her brother were adopted from Korea in 1956. She left her adoptive family when she was 15 due to abuse, and had no idea there was any problem regarding her citizenship until she was 60 years of age. Ella worked as an electrician at nuclear plants and military bases and lived her life as a proud U.S. citizen. Married 33 years, Ella applied for survivorship benefits after her husband died. "The Social Security office told me they could do nothing for my situation. I asked my Senator's office to get involved when I was running out of money and afraid of losing my home. I have received a green card and am waiting for my citizenship application, interviews, and exams to be completed. "I have spent so much time, emotional pain, and money trying to prove my citizenship. " Jack Jack also came to the US s part of Operation Babylift during the Vietnam War. His American parents were volunteering for the Red Cross in Guam and adopted him there in 1975. His adoption paperwork was somehow lost during the naturalization process. "My parents thought the process had been completed, as there was no indication of a problem. I have been raised here all my life by a wonderful family who never saw me as their adoptive child but their own child. "The US is my home and I am an American citizen of the United States, even if a piece of paper says otherwise. I attended college, raised 2 children, and paid my taxes as a citizen. "Now I am in a precarious state and am concerned about my citizenship and employment status. I am at risk of being deported and losing all that I know to be my life in the United States." Lisa Lisa and her sister were adopted from an orphanage in Iran at two years of age. Her adoptive father lived and worked in Iran, her father was a retired Lieutenant Colonel and a Prisoner of War in the Air Force. She arrived in the US in 1973 with my parents at the age of 3 and was legally adopted. "In 2008 I met with an immigration officer to see why I was having complications in obtaining a passport. It was suggested I complete the N600 form to petition for citizenship and seek legal counsel. I spent many years seeking legal counsel from various attorneys with disastrous results. I was told numerous times that I could be deported to Iran despite not being culturally Iranian and having been raised as an American and a Christian. As you can imagine it scared me immensely. "I followed the paper trail as best as I could. I found paperwork showing my father hired an immigration attorney and paid for services despite immigration telling me there was no activity on my file since I arrived in the US. The paper trail went cold because the attorney had retired and my adoptive father passed away in 2001. It is difficult to comprehend how my status can be an issue since I carried a military ID and had military benefits as a child. Social Security has even told me to file as a citizen for taxes, voting, etc. "I live in fear that my entire life will collapse. My parents gave me a new and exciting start to life and I could never imagine that it could all be taken away from me." Stacey Like many internationally adopted persons, Stacey found out she was not a U.S. citizen about five years ago when she applied for a passport to return to Korea. "I was shocked when the first lawyer I spoke with recommended I live undercover instead of filing paperwork for citizenship. I was told the process of filing would alert Immigration to the many years I had voted and claimed I was a US citizen. "As an adoptee and a mom to two daughters, the thought of being deported and losing them was extremely unnerving. I was also worried about losing my job if my employers ever found out about my status. I was scared but also angered by the injustice of it all. I wasn't sure who I was most mad at - my parents for assuming I was a citizen, the adoption agency for not following up with my parents, or the Child Citizenship Act for granting citizenship for some adoptees but excluding me. "Luckily for me, I found another immigration lawyer, and with their help I am now a permanent resident. My heart goes out to other adoptees that are still living in silent fear of deportation." Angela Angela was allegedly a foundling in South Korea. Her problems began when she turned 27 and moved to the Southwest and had difficulty securing a new job because lack of citizenship. Additionally, when simply renewing the same license at age 34, the State refused to renew it multiple times because they weren't trained how to vet my unchanged paperwork. "If my status hadn't changed and had been accepted previously, why was it no longer enough? These are just a few of the stress-riddled problems spanning years. "I desire to remain active and productive in my community; regardless something beyond my control could happen and put me at risk for deportation. The fear I live with threatens my future. This gripping fear keeps me from registering to vote, applying for government jobs, getting married, adopting children, traveling abroad, and fulfilling the American Dream." The Problem Adoptive parents were supposed to be responsible for completing the U.S. naturalization process for children they adopted from overseas. However, not all knew they had to. Many assumed the adoption agency did all of that, others said they forget. The U.S. Child Citizenship Act (CCA) of 2000, signed by President Clinton, went into effect in 2001. CCA acknowledged the necessity for intercountry adopted children to receive citizenship and makes it possible for foreign-born children who are without U.S. citizenship at birth to gain citizenship through a U.S. citizen parent automatically, amending the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to permit foreign-born children--including adopted children --to acquire citizenship automatically if they met certain requirements. There is a major catch, however: It only applies to those adoptees who were less than 18 years old on, February 27, 2001. The amendment did not retroactively include adoption cases prior to the amendment, thus does not account for the peak of adoptees from South Korea - more than 160,000 of whom were adopted in the last 60 years, arriving in the U.S. in the 1970's through the 1980's. Because the current law is not retroactive, thousands of adoptees, who were 18 years of age or older on February 27, 2001, are -- through no fault of their own and negligence by the US federal and state governments, adoption agencies, or their adoptive parents -- without automatic U.S. citizenship and essentially stateless. Since then thousands of adoptees have been living in a state of limbo, unable to get driver's licenses, vote, or work legally. Advertisement There are an estimated 18,000 Korean American adoptees alone without citizenship. Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2015 In November 2015, Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and co-signers Senators Dan Coats (R-IN) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced the Adoptee Citizenship Act (ACA) of 2015, S.2275. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Brian Schatz (D-HI) are co-signers. Representatives Trent Franks (R-AZ) and Adam Smith (D-WA) introduced House companion bill H.R. 5454 in June 2016, days before the second adoptee-led Adoptee Citizenship Act Day of Action. The bills will grant retroactive U.S. citizenship to all internationally adopted individuals regardless of when they were adopted, addressing the issue that left thousands of adoptees who were born before 1982 unprotected by the Child Citizenship Act (CCA) of 2000. It will create a clear pathway for adoptees who have been deported to a country of birth where they have no known family, cannot speak the language, and do not know the culture -- to return to the US. It is time to fix this injustice inflicted on people without their knowledge, and who did nothing wrong. Let's make adoption all it is supposed to be. For more information, please contact the Adoptee Rights Campaign (ARC) here. National Korean American Service & Education Consortium nakasec.org () VA office | 7006 Evergreen Court, Suite 200 Annandale, VA 22003 LA office: [NEW Address] 900 S. Crenshaw Blvd. LA, CA 90019 Tel. 323-937-3703 / Fax 323-937-3753 Advertisement KEENE, NH - FEBRUARY 02: Republican presidential candidate Jeb Bush speaks at a town hall style meeting for employees at C & S Wholesalers on February 2, 2016 in Keene, New Hampshire. Bush is in New Hampshire campaigning ahead of the state's primary on February 9. (Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images) *by Alec Goodwin Super PACs can churn through a lot of money. Exhibit A: Jeb Bush's Right to Rise USA. Led by veteran GOP operative Mike Murphy, Right to Rise was excoriated in the press for burning through $87 million in independent expenditures in support of Bush (and tens of millions more in operating expenses -- $104 million total) without any discernible evidence that the super PAC moved the needle for the former Florida governor. We can't say what the super PAC did wrong, if anything. There are too many moving parts in a political race. A campaign is built around a candidate, and in debates and on the trail, the wonkish Bush never connected well with sufficient numbers of voters. He withdrew from the race in late February after months of low poll ratings. Maybe there was nothing Right to Rise could have done to save him. Advertisement What we can do, though, is perform a post-mortem on how Right to Rise spent tens of millions of dollars. Bush's super PAC was particularly important to his effort. Before he formally announced his candidacy, he drove donations to Right to Rise for months, something that wouldn't be allowed once he made his White House bid official. Many deep-pocketed donors seemed happy to give to the group, which could accept unlimited sums from practically any source. What nobody predicted was that his campaign committee, which could accept only up to $2,700 from each donor for the primaries, would struggle mightily to fill its coffers. Near the end, Bush even complained about Citizens United, saying he wished he could raise unlimited funds for his committee instead of relying on super PACs like Right to Rise. Still, Right to Rise was highly visible with its ads on Bush's behalf. The $87 million drive to get Bush elected had many facets: ad production, digital ads, direct mail, phone calls, and traditional media buys. From mid-June 2015, when Bush announced he was running for president, to Feb. 20, when he announced he was quitting the race, Right to Rise spent more on traditional ad buys - TV, radio, and print - than on any other expenditure: $77.3 million, or about 89 percent of Right to Rise's total independent expenditures as reported to the FEC; most of that went for TV. Advertisement Some argued that the ads were of a lower quality than the ads run by the Bush campaign itself. It was certainly true that Right to Rise paid a lot more to run the spots, since campaigns -- but not super PACs -- must be charged lower rates by TV stations. But the most striking aspect of Right to Rise's strategy was the apparent lack of focus on digital advertising. The super PAC spent $86.8 million in independent expenditures , but just $1.2 million on digital advertising placement. Digital ad buys, all of which went through the Murphy-owned Revolution Media Group and Revolution Agency, made up just 1.4 percent of Right to Rise's independent expenditures. The dearth of digital advertising seems odd given that Jeb, in a Washington Post/ABC News Poll in December 2015, scored just as well with internet-savvy people aged 18-49 as with those over 50, who may be online less constantly. Mike Murphy, the head of Right to Rise, could not be reached for comment. Right to Rise's digital ad spending also is outside the norm for other top super PACs in 2016. The best comparison may be to Conservative Solutions PAC, the super PAC backing Bush's fellow Floridian and failed GOP White House candidate, Sen. Marco Rubio (R - Fla.) . Conservative Solutions spent 11.9 percent of its independent expenditures on digital ads. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's super PAC, Priorities USA Action, has spent 18 percent of independent expenditures on digital ad buys so far this cycle. Even the failed anti-Trump super PAC, Our Principles PAC, spent 6.5 percent of its independent expenditures on digital ads attacking the billionaire Republican during the primary. Curiously, Right to Rise reported spending on digital media placements only in September and October -- which doesn't necessarily mean that's when the ads actually ran, though it seems likely given the pattern of Right to Rise's spending for other types of ads throughout the campaign. That means Right to Rise decided not to boost the digital advertising budget even as Bush's poll ratings continued to decline. Even when the super PAC's spending skyrocketed in January, digital ads weren't a part of that last push. [caption id="attachment_14653" align="alignnone" width="700"] Graph by John Bowers | Right to Rise spent the most on traditional ad buys.[/caption] Advertisement While the super PAC didn't appear to spend much on digital ads, Bush's own campaign didn't, either. While super PACs and campaigns aren't supposed to coordinate their spending, it's common to see the two somehow complementing each other's efforts rather than duplicating them. Bush's digital side faced turmoil from the get-go, with his tech director stepping down after racist statements he'd posted on a website came to light. To try to arrive at a figure for what the Jeb 2016 campaign invested in digital ads, OpenSecrets Blog erred on the side of inclusion, tallying up all payments that clearly went for web ads but also for internet consulting, email, and online fundraising, as well as payroll for Bush's digital team, Chris Georgia, Kevin Zambrano, and Ronald Thompson. The total came to a maximum of about $1.1 million -- or about 5.1 percent of what the campaign spent overall for payroll, consulting, legal fees, data, and advertising costs (and not including disbursements like travel, facility rental and office supplies). Chris Georgia, the Bush campaign's Digital Director, could not be reached for comment. Right to Rise's strategists did shift their spending as the months wore on -- to direct mail. Direct mail ads are usually pamphlets, leaflets, and posters snail-mailed to potential voters. Right to Rise spent $6.9 million on such mailers over the course of Jeb's run for president. In the end, about 8 percent of Right to Rise's expenditures overall were devoted to direct mail, and the super PAC shifted increasingly to that method as the campaign went along. In the last three months of Bush's campaign, $5.8 million of the $45 million spent - 12.7 percent - was for direct mail. In contrast, Clinton's Priorities USA Action super PAC has spent just 4 percent of its nearly $32.2 million in independent expenditures on direct mail ads. Rubio's Conservative Solutions spent under 6 percent. (A caveat: Expenditures data reported on Federal Election Commission filings is notoriously inexact; the purpose of expenditures can be mislabeled, or spending for various types of services can be lumped into one vaguely-described line item. We did the best we could.) The long decline In the " ," the months of June, July, and August, Right to Rise spent just $495,259 on traditional ads and direct mail advertising. Bush's team seemed to believe that Trump served a useful purpose for their candidate at that point -- that the real estate mogul would soak up all the oxygen and from non-establishment candidates. Bush's poll numbers rose from 12 percent in early June to 13.6 percent in mid-July, making him the frontrunner he'd always been expected to be. But then he dropped to a third-place 9 percent at the end of August, according to the , which aggregates 364 republican primary polls into trend lines. In September, the super PAC began to spend on digital and traditional media advertising - $6.6 million in total. Yet the spending did little to arrest Bush's slow decline. In October, Right to Rise spent nearly 19.2 million dollars, its second-highest outlay. But then the group's spending declined through the holiday season, along with Bush's poll numbers, which fell from 8.5 percent at the beginning of October to 5.4 percent by the end of the year. Bush was in fifth place at that point, in part due to poor debate performances, but Right to Rise shelled out just $5.8 million in December. Advertisement Bush's team had good reason to move to code red, with major contests close at hand: The all-important Iowa caucuses were Feb. 1, and the New Hampshire primary was set for Feb. 16. And indeed, Murphy and others steering the Right to Rise behemoth seemed to panic in January: The super PAC spent 32.7 million that month, more than it spent in any other month. The group even sent out a mailer containing a video player preloaded with a Bush documentary. But the candidate stayed trapped around 5.5 percent throughout the month in national polls, and Iowa went poorly; winning just 2.8 percent of the vote, Bush came in sixth. After the loss, the campaign began to spin the result as part of a plan. A "talking points" memo for advisers and high-profile supporters snagged by Politico claimed "The Jeb 2016 campaign has never made Iowa a centerpiece to winning the nomination," and identifies New Hampshire as the beginning of the "real race for the nomination." But the data seems to show that Bush's super PAC cared a great deal about the Hawkeye State. Right to Rise spent $14.9 million on TV ads in Iowa in the run-up to the caucuses. And Bush didn't do much better in New Hampshire, though Right to Rise dumped 29.5 million into TV ads alone in that state: He came in fourth. At the end of the January, Right to Rise had spent $80.2 million in independent expenditures, with little to show for it. Since the group had raised $121 million, it had another $41 million with which it could try to boost the candidate. It spent another $6.6 million in February, even beginning to phone voters for the first time. But all the super PAC money didn't matter because Bush's campaign had run out of cash. He dropped out on Feb. 20. And that may be the ultimate lesson of the Right to Rise debacle. Soft money from super PACs and 501(c)s can help swing a race, but without hard money in a campaign's coffers, a candidate won't be able to hang on for long. I admit to being a longtime Madonna fan. I remember being obsessed with her 1991 documentary, Truth or Dare. Apart from enjoying the spectacle of her 1990 Blond Ambition tour, I was inspired by watching her dancers be themselves in the movie when I was still very much in the gay closet. On the 25th anniversary of that film, a new documentary follows up with the dancers. Strike a Pose reveals their ups and downs over the years, including the impact of HIV in their lives. Three of the dancers were living with the virus while on tour, but none of them disclosed that fact to one another at the time. Gabriel Trupin died of AIDS-related illness in 1995. The other two dancers, Carlton Wilborn and Salim "Slam" Gauwloos, are long-term survivors. Although Carlton disclosed his HIV status in a 2007 autobiography, this new film is the first time that Slam publicly discloses. Both Carlton and Salim grace our cover. The stories of all three men are told in the new film, but for a deeper dive into their HIV-related stories, click here . Gabriel, Carlton and Salim all tested HIV positive before 1996, when effective treatment became a reality. Gabriel died just a year before. Carlton and Salim show how 20 years of effective treatment have changed the epidemic. To mark this anniversary, click here for a closer look at the history of HIV treatment over the past two decades. A key part of the evolution of HIV treatment is the activism that fueled access to the lifesaving drugs. From improving clinical trials to expanding care and treatment, activists deserve much of the credit. One of the earliest and most influential treatment activists is Gregg Gonsalves. Now a professor at Yale University, he teaches aspiring domestic and global activists what he's learned. Click here to read more. A related narrative to developing effective treatment has been the search for a vaccine and a cure. A great example is the work of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary. Mark Feinberg is its new president and CEO. Click here to read our Q&A with Mark on IAVI's promising vaccine and cure work. As we look backward and forward at the epidemic in this issue, so does Christodora, the new novel by POZ contributing writer Tim Murphy. He tells the stories of a diverse cast of fictional characters who live in the real-world East Village building that the novel is named after and who bore witness to the worst of the New York City AIDS crisis. The book, available this August, goes from street protests by AIDS activists in the 1980s to today's hipsters to the rich residents of New York City in the 2020s. The time-traveling story of a privileged young artistic couple and their adopted son intersects with an AIDS activist in unexpected ways. Click here to read an exclusive excerpt. Also please check out these two posters: our 2016 HIV drug chart and a timeline of milestones in effective HIV treatment. Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York. Photo Kevin Arnold We are in the midst of one of the greatest human migrations that our world has ever seen -- that of humanity from rural areas into cities. In China alone, 400 million people have already made this transition. Towns that were once fishing villages grew to megacities with 10 million or more inhabitants in just 30 years. This trend is happening on every continent. By 2050, it's estimated that three of every four people on Earth will live in cities, with many of them settling in these mega-urban centers. Michael Bloomberg recently referred to this century as the "era of cities." Advertisement For 60 years, Sister Cities International has worked in cities, encouraging mutual respect, understanding and cooperation across cultural and political differences by bringing together the residents of cities on opposite sides of the world. Now, these relationships can help our world address one of the most daunting challenges we've ever faced: Climate change and sustainability. Our global population is both growing and urbanizing at unprecedented rates as our changing climate exacerbates extreme weather, disease, and water and food shortages. It's a frightening prospect. But I'm not dismayed because I see cities taking action every day. Mayors are leading in addressing climate change, acting with a nimbleness that's impossible for even the best-intentioned national governments. At last year's COP21 climate meeting in Paris, thousands of city leaders met to share ideas. Advertisement Cities have always been centers of innovation, and today, urban leaders are inspiring one another to new heights of sustainability. Bike shares have grown from a handful of European cities to hundreds around the world. Linear parks like Seoul's Cheonggyecheon Stream, Boston's Rose Kennedy Greenway or New York's High Line, that replace outdated transportation infrastructure, have city planners scrambling to develop the next great urban park. Elsewhere, micro-parks, car-free zones, energy-efficient buildings and smart cities that use technology to monitor environmental impact, are making headlines and attracting imitators. Just picture what Boston, near my home, could learn about new strategies for building green from its sister city of Barcelona, Spain. Imagine the conversation about the challenges of sea-level rise that Boston's leaders could have with its sister cities of Taipei, Taiwan and Praia, Cape Verde. And cities bring together the full diversity of humanity. Only by tapping the imaginations and the skills of all people, will we be able to forge a sustainable future for the planet. Our coming cities century can transform how we live in urban areas, for the good of nature and to the great benefit of people in cities. Advertisement Cities need nature, and nature needs cities. Nature can protect cities from natural disaster, by providing new solutions for managing water, cleaning the air and cooling our streets. Nature can make the lives of city residents better, improving their health and wellbeing. The billions of people who live in urban areas have the collective power to change our environmental future, by developing resilient, livable and flourishing cities where nature is an integral part of their daily lives. This is an audacious goal, but it's one that we can accomplish together, as brothers and sisters. Congratulations to Sister Cites International on six decades of mutual learning and respect: The world needs your spirit of cooperation now, more than ever. Pascal Mittermaier is the Managing Director of The Nature Conservancy's Global Cities program, where he works to build resilient, livable, flourishing cities around the world. He tweets at @pascalmitter and his writing is archived at https://global.nature.org/experts/pascal-mittermaier . As seen in my blog IMF in Denial to the Realities of the World one of the greatest challenges facing organizations at international, national and local levels is the inertia and apathy of the civil servants within those organizations, whose inaction and inertia is creating the human rights violations of governments who have an obligation to provide the services, that are simply not being produced by those charged with the task--calling attention to the links below to Spanish and American government authorities who are guilty of crimes against humanity in their "ostrich-playing." Large bureaucratic organizations, in the private as much as the public sector, are impersonal give-you-the-run-around service orgs, waiting until people just gives up, and go away. And, this is why most people are so angry with government authorities at present--no one is "minding the store"--with all the "managers" too busy giving speeches and going to meetings to care. The chaos, disorganization, and inaction of "authorities" is exposed in my on-going, unilateral discussion with the Spanish government, the US Department of State, the US Congress, and the White House -and even the Hillary Clinton camp received a letter which was left unread. (Einstein was right. There is no difference between people who don't know how to read, and people who don't!). But, the list of grievances and complaints of violations of rights does not stop there. Due to ongoing inaction of authorities everywhere, my list of grievance grows daily. Advertisement One of the major issues, is that the labor market is flooded with MBAs and PhDs, coupled with the fact that there is a dearth of people who wish to hold or execute the administrative function in organizations--with the motivation in these jobs purely financial. I explain the issues in detail in my Huffington Post blog Lessons Learned in Our Nation's Capitol and Global Governance, A few months after Ronald Reagan entered office as president of the United States for the first time, I started my first job as an intern on Capitol Hill. While I eventually abandoned a career-path in the political arena, I never forgot the important lessons I learned from my boss Patsy Guyer, Executive Assistant to former Senator J. Bennett Johnston (LA). What I learned from Patsy, was not only the importance of a well-functioning administrative workflow and organizational system, and how to structure one, but also the necessity for team-work and a hands-on, 'fair-but-firm' managerial approach in succeeding at any endeavor. Circumstances of my life in the '80s were as turbulent and chaotic as they have been in the past decade, so the examples and lessons Patsy gave to me were of great significance -- and a rock of stability and sanity in a time where my life desperately needed it. Recently, on the Internet, I found a letter from Senator Johnston where he paid tribute to Patsy Guyer -- his words mimic my sentiments exactly: "Patsy [] handled a huge array of responsibilities over the years, ranging from supervising State offices to managing summer interns, to creating and overseeing an exceptionally efficient mail operation. Advertisement But if Patsy should be singled out for anything, it is her management of and deep personal commitment to a case work operation that is unmatched in the volume and quality of service it has rendered to countless thousands of Louisianians in need. I am very proud of the aid my office has given over the years to people who had nowhere else to turn... We were able to be effective principally because Patsy Guyer has an astounding network of friends and colleagues throughout the Congress and among Federal agencies and, most of all, because she greeted every case, no matter how routine, with the enthusiasm and commitment she brought to her first day on the job in November of 1972. Whether the challenge was to bring home from Abu Dhabi a tragically injured Louisiana businessman, locate a missing child in a Rwandan refugee camp or organize a food airlift to Cambodia, we always knew Patsy would have the ingenuity and contacts to start the process and the absolutely iron-willed determination and dedication to see it through to completion. I have never known a more selfless and giving individual..." No other words could more perfectly describe the person I knew and admired. Patsy, through her actions (not words) showed me to what extent 'getting the job done' necessitates dedication, perseverance, networking, and absolute iron-will determination that won't bend even when faced with the most obstinate federal bureaucrat that the US government can conjure up. (And, my message for the give-me-the-run-around State Department officials that I have been writing to for the past 8 years, is that I was taught by Patsy Guyer, so I'm not going anywhere until they start doing their job!) Unfortunately, the vital importance and role that the administrative function plays within an organization has been lost in the past decades. Masters and doctorates are as common now as high school diplomas once were -with too many people forgetting the importance of street-smarts and common sense in actually getting things accomplished. In fact, much of the elevated level of negligence in the 'modern' world (see my blog The 70/90 Rule & the Principle of Due Diligence) is due to a dearth of qualified administrative personnel within the labor force, coupled by 'too many chefs spoil the soup' syndrome at all levels of management. Advertisement Not only is the Feminist movement 'stalled' -- everyone, and everything, seems to be 'stalled' these days, for the simple reason that no one will take action. Everyone is so busy chasing their tails in speech after speech, conference after conference, and meeting after meeting - that no one is minding the store. Never before has mankind possessed so many extremely highly-educated populations and work-forces, extra-ordinary technological capabilities, and a multitude of research and information in all of the physical and social sciences. However, we still find ourselves at the 'cross-roads' to humanity because of rampant greed, immorality, and apathy as much in the public sphere as in the private sphere. The actions (or inactions) that we, as a global community, take in the coming decades will determine the survival or demise of the human race and this planet - with the present inertia amongst our leaders tipping the scales towards our demise. As Ian Goldin states in Divided Nations: Why Global Governance is Failing, and What We Can Do About It "As we work on the many global challenges we are struck by the need for global solutions. If there is one thing that keeps us awake at night, it is the absence of global leadership and even awareness of the scale of the global challenges... Humanity is at a crossroads. This could be our best century ever, as we find the means and collective will to overcome poverty, disease, and many of the other tribulations that remain endemic despite human progress. Or it could be our worst century, as systemic risks and the unintended consequences of technological progress and globalization overwhelm the gains and lead to devastating destruction. The outcome will depend on our collective ability to understand and take action to address key challenges. It depends on global management. The widening gap between our knowledge of the issues and the failure of global leaders to address global concerns is our biggest challenge. The future, however, will be unlike the past. We face a new set of challenges... Resolving questions of global governance urgently requires an invigorated national and global debate. This necessitates the involvement of ordinary citizens everywhere. For without the engagement and support of us all, reform efforts are bound to fail." Even though the need for enhancing global governance is widely recognized in the politically correct rhetoric of today, as Goldin points out, "too often reforms [] are equivalent to rearranging the deckchairs on the Titantic... The world has changed in fundamental ways since the institutions were formed and so it should come as no surprise that they are overwhelmed by new challenges. Concerted reform may in some areas close the governance gaps, but for the most part the participants in these reform efforts include representatives of the governments who have resisted reform and so significant reform is stymied." If good governance is going to become an effective tool in facing global challenges, we must start looking towards implementation, implementation, and more implementation - but effective implementation by real-live human beings who understand real-live problems. What is needed is the hands-on, no-nonsense approach of Patsy Guyer - someone who didn't gawk at any task, and who was tireless and dedicated in moving mountains within the nightmare, bureaucratic, minefields of the American federal government. This is what America (and the World) needs! Action, and more Action -- from someone with the moral integrity of Patsy Guyer. Mixed race boy doing math problems at board in class What are the biggest problems with public education today? originally appeared on Quora - the knowledge sharing network where compelling questions are answered by people with unique insights. Answer by Sarah Lubienski, Mathematics Education Professor, University of Illinois, on Quora. Inequity. If we look at NAEP scores since 1990, there has been a marked increase in scores (see Washington Post blog on this). However, persistent disparities based on race and socioeconomic status have remained. Advertisement Some might feel that such disparities will simply always be with us and schools cannot change that. But the fact that Black fourth graders' 2007 NAEP math scores were higher than those of White fourth graders' scores in 1990 means that Black students certainly can learn as much as White students (or more) if given the opportunity. Additionally, some past analyses have revealed that our top states and districts score as high as the top countries in the world -- we are certainly capable of offering a rich, cutting-edge education to students in the U.S. However, the U.S. education system has deep inequities in terms of human and financial resources. I teach many international graduate students, and they are often struck by how odd it is that we in the U.S. voice strong concern about equity, but our education system is entrenched in inequality. Most notably, our school funding tends to rely on property taxes, resulting in the rich having better funded schools that can afford smaller class sizes, the most up-to-date curricula and can attract and retain the most marketable teachers. One graduate student from Turkey once asked why we don't assign teachers to schools to ensure that the least advantaged students have the best teachers. While that might seem like a radical solution to us, there are ways we could do more to break the pattern of high teacher turnover and disproportionate numbers of inexperienced teachers in our poorest schools (e.g., incentive programs for effective teachers that remain in high-needs schools). We actually need to go beyond equal resources for schools, because our highest-need students require more resources than their counterparts who have every educational advantage. Hence, to achieve equity, we need to be prepared to invest more in our schools and students that have the greatest needs. American Declaration of Independence with quill and parchment. The 4th of July is almost upon us. When it arrives, we will gather for barbecues, soft drinks, and beer, and enjoy the holiday with neighbors, family, and friends. And most of us, amidst the food and festivities, will spend at least a few minutes talking about the state of our country and contemplating the meaning of the day. And while there is much that divides us, we will nonetheless find comfort in the knowledge that we Americans share an abiding love of our country. We particularly treasure the freedom of this land. And as significant as our differences are, we will not permit them to overwhelm us. The 4th is an appropriate occasion for us to remember that in America, there is a fundamental unity in our diversity. And it is a time to recall as well that what Americans need right now is less anger and more thoughtful reflection, less shouting and more listening. Even when we disagree, an inevitable occurrence in our contentious democracy, we can do so without demonizing each other. We can build bridges, focus on our shared values, and join together in common cause, working always for civility in public debate. Advertisement Perhaps the best way to promote respect for our common values and our shared identity is to recall the document that we celebrate on July 4th that lays out for us what it means to be an American. This year is the 240th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the proclamation that initiated the American experiment and that still, better than any text of that period or later, summons us to the moral vision of America's founders. The stirring words of the Declaration were revolutionary then and remain so today. In the Declaration, the founders focused on the values that animated the soon-to-be-born country and the ideals to which it aspired. Caught up in the daring of rebellion and the fervor of the moment, the founders used the text of the Declaration to speak the language of conscience and principle. The Constitution, on the other hand, is a practical document and a careful work of compromise; in it, the Declaration's principles were often submerged and dissolved in the pragmatic give-and-take of creating the political structures of the new republic. This is why America's greatest leaders often referred back to the Declaration. In his 1860 Cooper Union speech on slavery that paved his road to the presidency, Abraham Lincoln did not dwell on the Constitution, which grounded slavery in law. He focused instead on the Declaration, which asserted ideals that, by implication at least, rejected the legalized human bondage that had stained our country's honor and undermined its foundation. And this is why much of America's history can best be understood as a great struggle to make the Constitution more consonant with the Declaration of Independence. Advertisement In our country's current difficulties, there is much in the Declaration that can help us. Let us take a single passage, certainly the best known, which states that "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights..." These words are extraordinary on many levels. First, they tell an important story about how the founding fathers viewed religion. The founders were not secularists. They believed in God. The inalienable rights of man -- the principle at the very center of the Declaration -- were not a humanistic notion or abstract ideal; they were a gift from the Creator of humankind. The morality of the founders was rooted in religion, and they were convinced that the morality of the people depended on a vibrant religious life. At the same time, of course, they did not want government to be an agent of religion, and they refused to use sectarian -- specifically Christian -- images. It was they who authored the First Amendment, the noble sanctuary of our most precious freedoms. And tellingly, while the Declaration mentions God, the Constitution does not. So what are we to conclude from all this? The answer, it seems to me, is that the founders had a view of religion that was both more complicated and more positive than we usually imagine. They knew that keeping religion and politics in proper balance required constant vigilance, and they opposed any form of government sanction for religion. But they surely did not want to banish religion from public life altogether, and they were prepared to invoke God in a way that was unifying and not divisive. For the founders, religion and God were not an afterthought; they were a first principle of the Declaration. Second, the ringing words about inalienable rights resonate with special power on this July 4th. Drawing on Biblical precedent (Genesis 1:27), the Declaration of Independence affirms in the most specific language possible that every single American is deserving of dignity, respect, and equal rights in the eyes of God and government. That, the Declaration tells us, is how God created us. And rights that are "inalienable" are just that -- not subject to change, or diminishment, or dismissal, or indifference. This principle is the heart of the American experience: We are all created equal, and we are all entitled to the respect that flows from that reality, along with the rights and responsibilities. That is what America is; that is what America does. Advertisement And these rights apply not only to those mentioned in the Declaration, but to all: Rich and poor, white and black, man and woman, Asian and Hispanic, gay and straight, Jew and Christian, Muslim and Hindu. Many of these groupings, of course, did not even exist in America in the colonial era. At the time of the founders, there was no feminist movement or gay rights movement. Gays were invisible and talk of women's rights was mostly suppressed, to the point of invisibility. And Muslims were nowhere to be found. Nonetheless, the Declaration's intent is clear. Abraham Lincoln knew that if we are all created equal, then slavery is wrong, and in fact an abomination, even if the founders did not connect the dots. And what was true for slaves is no less true for women, gays, Muslims, immigrants, and Hispanics. The Declaration is clear. Their rights too are "inalienable," even if unstated. My heart is heavy for the Pulse nightclub victims and their families. I am sorry for this loss cutting our nation deeper than words can express, and deeply saddened that our immigration laws are preventing some families from even attending their loved one's funerals. These were our Latino siblings, friends and neighbors. They were LGBT people enjoying life at an iconic place of safety and acceptance for their community. They were the beating heart of American diversity, and of what makes this country great. And they were struck down in horrific violence; intentionally targeted for all of the good that they embodied. The Orlando shooting was a homophobic and racist attack, perpetrated almost one year to the day after a similar attack targeting another vulnerable community at another place of sanctuary. Part of honoring the nine lives lost to a white supremacist's gun at Emanuel AME Church in 2015 should have been taking steps to ensure a similar event never happened again. We didn't then, and the question we must ask as 49 more souls are laid to rest and 53 remain injured is, will we do it now? Advertisement The seeds of hate crimes are sewn long before their victims are harmed, and the sad truth is that some in our society tolerate and even nurture this process. Every anti-LGBT policy proposal -- from North Carolina's H.B. 2 to the recent efforts by Congressional Republicans to undermine LGBT protections -- contributes the demoralization of our fellow citizens. Every right wing talking point smearing Mexican immigrants only serves to further demean an already vulnerable population. It's a not-so-subtle reminder that we have not achieved equality in our society, and that relative safety is a luxury afforded some communities much more than it is to others. The result is sad, predictable and something we see far too often. Families, schools and places of worship refuse to accept someone for being LGBT. Transgender women of color, uniquely targeted at the intersection of transphobia, racism and sexism, face the constant threat of violence in our streets. 2015 was the deadliest year yet for transgender women, with 21 murders in the U.S. alone. Sadly, we're on track to break that record in 2016, with 14 transgender women killed so far, and we're only half way through the year. Before the Pulse shooting took place, the LGBT community already made up the highest percentage of hate crime victims. It's not enough for lawmakers to hold moments of silence for the vulnerable people they've helped to victimize. In fact, less than two weeks after Orlando, many of the same Republicans who bowed their heads in silence are now planning a hearing on legislation that would enshrine in law a business's right to discriminate against LGBT employees. The responsibility of leadership demands an end to these harmful political ploys that in no uncertain ways helps place a target on innocent backs. Elevating our national discourse is a crucial first step, but that alone is not enough. The fact remains that in Orlando, someone with the intent to kill on a horrific scale was able to get his hands on a gun designed to do just that. We must find the political will to end this scourge, once and for all. That starts by recognizing that the perpetrators of gun violence benefit from our lax gun laws. The first accomplice to a mass murderer is a society that allows him to buy a gun, no questions asked. That is why it is vital for Congress to reauthorize the assault weapons ban. Since the law expired in 2004, assault weapons have become the one common factor connecting Orlando to Newtown and Aurora to San Bernardino. The motives vary as widely as the locations, but the weapons are notably the same. Advertisement As for the motives of this most recent mass murderer, his claimed allegiance to ISIS, al Queda and Hezbollah -- three terrorist groups at war with one another -- is a testament to just how confused and incoherent his views were. But his words also created an opening for those who would rather scapegoat Islam than deal with the difficult changes we so desperately need. It falls to decent people in every corner of our country to ensure that never happens. We cannot ignore the policies being pushed by elected officials that feed into the acceptance of discrimination in our society. We cannot sit by and allow another vulnerable community to be targeted as a result of one person's horrific actions, and we cannot allow the voices of division to persevere. As Martin Luther King, Jr. so eloquently said: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." Gone too soon, but never forgotten: Photo: via @CamilleCharriere. If you ever want to know what specific items are trending during any given season, Instagram can answer your query with one quick scroll. For those who follow a plethora of fashion folk, it's pretty easy to see the brands and items that catch on like wildfire among editors and bloggers, and continue to go viral from there. This summer, the most prevalent pieces on social media are a mix of big-name splurges and indie-brand accessories. And while they don't all come super cheap, the 20 picks ahead are sure to make a statement -- and inspire your wardrobe for months to come. Scroll through to find the summer It items that are taking over Instagram and let us know which popular duds you'll be buying into this summer. Advertisement Photo via @TheSerenaGoh. What happens when a famous blogger collaborates with a swimwear brand? A suit that's sure to dominate Instagram. Onia x WeWoreWhat Danielle One Piece, $195, available at Onia. Photo via @WeArePoolSide. You won't be able to hit the beach this summer without seeing at least a few of these customizable totes, which are currently available exclusively on Moda Operandi (and are sure to sell out). Poolside Bags Exclusive Customizable Panier Original Tote, $250, available at Moda Operandi. Photo via @Ashely_Moore_. This brand has Instagram to thank for its popularity -- and its flirty dresses don't show any sign of slowing down. Realisation Par Valentina Dress, $180, available at Realisation Par. Photo via @LackofColoraus. Bloggers love a good boater hat and this Australian brand seems to be the label of choice. Lack Of Color Spencer Boater, $59, available at Lack of Color. Photo via @Freckle_London. Cool girls all over the world have been seen sporting this badass-meets-delicate choker that's too rad to take off. Advertisement Justine Clenquet Chloe Choker, $95, available at Opening Ceremony. Photo via @AlwaysJudging. You wouldn't think of sweatpants as a summer must-have, but Adidas track pants are having a major moment among the fashion crowd. Adidas Cigarette Pants, $60, available at Adidas. Photo via @SavWhite. Like it or not (and creep-factor aside), tinted glasses are back and Acne's variation is too stylish to resist. Acne Studios Spitfire, $400, available at Acne Studios. Photo via @LisaSaysGah. Good news for all: Low heels -- like this metallic pair by Maryam Nassir Zadeh -- will be trending all summer long. Maryam Nassir Zadeh Martina Slide, $408, available at Maryam Nassir Zadeh. Photo via @MarGoandMe. Affordable e-retailer Storets is quickly becoming a favorite among bloggers, and we can see why -- we can't wait to stock up on all of its on-trend summer dresses, like this colorful one we've been seeing all over the place. Storets Lovers Gonna Love Slip Dress, $128, available at Storets. Photo via @Dilettabonaiuti. The single-earring trend is going strong. If you haven't yet embraced the style, look no further than Sorelle for minimalist-approved statement pieces that have been flooding our feeds. Advertisement Sorelle Anja Earring, $120, available at Sorelle. Photo via @PaloMija. Move over, gladiator sandals -- loafers are the footwear of choice with everything from jeans to dresses. Gucci Leather Mid-Heel Loafer, $1,100, available at Gucci. Photo via @AreYouAmI. Blogger Rumi Neely's brand, Are You Am I, continues to pop up on It Girls everywhere -- this bodysuit has been worn by Chiara Ferragni and Bella Hadid alike. Are You Am I Naia Bodysuit, $129, available at Are You Am I. Photo: via @Vibeist. Gingham lovers have to check out the Solid & Striped collaboration with Poppy Delevigne, which has been a huge hit among bloggers and DJs. Solid & Striped The Poppy Tie One-piece, $158, available at Solid & Striped. Photo via @NGoldenberg. We knew tie-dye would be a prominent trend this summer, but this Altuzarra dress appears to be a crowd favorite for weddings and vacations. Altuzarra Ilari Printed Batik Dress, $2,295 $1,606, available at MyTheresa. Photo Via @BriannaMPorter. Kurt Cobain-inspired shades are still blowing up -- bonus points if you match with your bestie. Raen Luxury Wig Figurative Round Sunglasses, $150, available at Raen. Photo via @RovAnneAssoulin. Fashion-girl favorite designer Rosie Assoulin has a sister who makes some sweet jewelry. Needless to say, it's already being worn like crazy. Advertisement Roxanne Assoulin Spectrum Choker, $120, available at Roxanne Assoulin. Photo via @PernilleTeIsbaek. If you needed any proof that the ballet flat is back with a vengeance, the popularity of Miu Miu's statement lace-up flats should make things crystal clear. Miu Miu Leather Lace-up Ballet Flats, $550, available at Saks Fifth Avenue. Photo via @BethanyMorgio. A bathing suit top that doubles as an actual top? No wonder this suit is catching on -- you get double the bang for your buck. Lisa Marie Fernandez Leandra Off-The-Shoulder Printed Stretch Cotton-blend Bikini, $380, available at Net-A-Porter. Photo via @CamilleCharriere. You couldn't scroll through Insta without seeing Vetements' popular hoodies a few months back. Now that summer's officially here, the brand's denim miniskirt is having the same effect. Vetements Denim Cotton Paneled Mini Skirt, $1,071 $536, available at L'Inde Le Palais. Photo via @GalaGonzales. This brand should probably change the name of its hugely popular swimsuit to The Blogger Bikini, because that's basically what we're calling it at this point. Advertisement Kiini Luna Crochet-trimmed Triangle Bikini Top & Briefs, $120-$165, available at Net-A-Porter. By: Alyssa Coscarelli. Also on HuffPost: Robbers Posing As Fundraisers Have Been Mugging Drivers In The Loop By Rachel Cromidas in News on Jun 30, 2016 9:51PM Crime scene tape (Photo by LukaTDB via Shutterstock) Robbers posing as fundraising canvassers have been mugging drivers in the Loop, police warned in a Thursday alert. In several incidents, men approached cars while they were stopped in traffic and distracted their drivers with the ruse of handing out fundraising flyers, according to police. Then, they would open the driver's car door, punch the passengers and take their cell phones. The incidents reportedly took place in the 0-100 block of East Lower Wacker Drive on June 22 at about 4:30 p.m. and in the 200 block of North Michigan Avenue on June 23 just after 4:00 p.m. The muggers were described as black men between the ages of 16 and 24 and 5'6" to 6'00" tall. After being approached last year by the National Social Equity Panel to bring the Social Equity Leadership Conference to the University of San Francisco, I realized that USF was the perfect place to host this conference. This year's event, held June 1-3, brought a unique, spiritual component to the conference, as it was the first time the Social Equity Leadership Conference has been held at a Jesuit institution. The opportunity for the USF School of Management to host was fitting, given, not only the background of USF in supporting social equity and social justice but also the Jesuit history which brought an authentic component to the conference. Although the topics discussed varied widely across law enforcement and race, access to technology for low-income families, sustainability and environmental planning, and LGBT issues, five key points can be taken from the conference and applied to the greater community. 1. The Keynote Address by Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom Over 200 people attended the keynote given by Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom, and, while lunch was offered during the speech, many people came just to hear him speak. His work has spanned social equity issues, including women's rights, fair housing access, same-sex marriage access, and addressing the needs of any marginalized people. Citing The Bible, Newsom shared that the principle of social equity is worth fighting for, as we are all connected as parts of the same "body," and the suffering of one is the suffering of all. Advertisement 2. The Message of Social Equity While many people at the conference might have not heard the term social equity, the conference was a way to not only share the message but also to reach individuals who may have never participated before in a social equity conference. Over the course of three days, participants were able to gain an understanding through discussions on housing policies, transgender panels, healthcare, and communities of color. The conference highlighted the fact that social equity involves everyone and that everyone needs to be involved. Individuals, scholars, and nonprofit leaders from across the world participated in the conference, with some traveling from as far as India. 3. The Transgender Panel While recent conversations and legislative actions regarding gender neutral bathrooms have begun to pique the interest of many different people, the transgender panel took a much more functional approach. The panel discussed appropriate pronouns, terms, and common questions for individuals who are transgender. A mix of people participated in all panels, which allowed the experience to be an epiphany for so many individuals, including many older adults. Led by a USF professor in the School of Nursing, the panel was an interactive way to share information and ask insightful questions. So many individuals left with a greater understanding and awareness. 4. Housing Policy and Discrimination Key individuals, such as the executive director of Fair Housing of Marin, shared insights into the discrimination that is going on within the housing market. The United States continues to have issues with unintentional and intentional segregation -- primarily those individuals that choose to separate themselves based on social class and economic status. Fair Housing of Marin conducts fair housing tests, where the willingness of individuals to rent or sell a home to someone is evaluated. By assessing the home rental or sales process, issues of social equity are brought to light. Many individuals who attended this panel were surprised to know that research and practice involving fair housing is still taking place, because fair housing and discrimination continues to be a challenge in communities. Advertisement 5. Healthcare and Communities of Color A panel was led by the USF nursing school about the effects of toxic environments on communities of color and poor white communities. Every school and college at USF had a faculty member participate in this discussion panel, which demonstrated that social equity involves everyone, not just members of a given field or group, and highlighted the importance of environmental impact on individuals. For example, many people suffer from living near toxic plants and factories, but these types of industrial properties are more likely to be placed near communities of color and poor white communities. This panel truly highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of social equity and the need for public policy to address social equity, especially from leadership within healthcare. Donald Trump is an unhinged con man who regularly fans the flames of racism, sexism and xenophobia. Yet disturbingly, he has become the presumptive Republican nominee for president of the United States. Part of what appears to be bolstering the support he does have is his supposed business success and his claim to be insulated from special interest pressure by self-funding his campaign. But these claims, like so many others, are egregiously misleading. Whether its the predatory scheme known as Trump University, or his recent slew of fundraising events catering to wealthy donors, its clearer with each passing day that much of Trumps support is built on manipulation and outright deceit. Trumps claims about not being beholden to rich donors was understandably appealing to an electorate thats tired of an out-of-balance political system that shuts out the voices of everyday Americans. Throughout the Republican primary, Trump repeatedly lambasted his opponents for being in the pockets of wealthy donors. When Sheldon Adelson was considering supporting Sen. Marco Rubio, for example, Trump tweeted that Adelson wanted to support Rubio so he could make him into his perfect little puppet. But Trumps actions dont live up to his rhetoric. Trump has made raising money from wealthy interests a top priority in recent weeks. As noted in a recent Bloomberg report, last week in New York City a cabal of hedge fund managers and private equity executives held a joint fundraiser for Trump and the RNC, at a price of $50,000 per person, with the hosts paying $250,000 per couple. Trump also recently held a fundraiser at the former residence of the late Senator Barry Goldwater, with attendees shelling out thousands of dollars per seat. Apparently Trump and the donors he was wooing didnt mind that Goldwaters widow said the senator himself would be appalled by Trumps candidacy. Advertisement According to the Wall Street Journal, Trumps campaign is expressing support for a super PAC founded by billionaire hedge fund manager Robert Mercer. The super PAC - called Make America Number 1 - is reportedly soliciting contributions from a whos who of conservative mega-donors, including casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, who has pledged to spend $100 million backing Trump. Trump is also using this campaign to line the pockets of his own companies. A significant amount of the money that the Trump campaign has spent so far has gone to companies owned by Trump himself. In fact, according to Fortune magazine, an estimated 10 percent of total campaign expenditures thus far have gone to companies that bear his name. That doesnt include expenditures billed to his estate, Mar-a-Lago, or his private plane, which has its own holding company. Whats more, Trump has used deceitful, disingenuous and predatory business practices to further enrich himself at the expense of anyone and everyone else. Hundreds of former employees and contractors allege that they still havent been paid for work done for companies controlled by Trump, and literally thousands of lawsuits have been filed against him. One high profile example is a class-action suit regarding Trump University. Former employees of Trump University, an institution which never had accreditation, have testified in saying that they essentially engaged in a methodical, Systematic Series of misrepresentations designed to separate people from their money. This case is one of many that show Donald Trump for who he really is: a fraud who regularly exploits people for personal gain. Advertisement Former Britisih prime minister Tony Blair arrives for a service of thanksgiving for Queen Elizabeth's 90th birthday at St Paul's cathedral in London, Britain, June 10, 2016. REUTERS/Peter Nicholls "Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair ..." If Tony Blair's op-ed on Brexit is mournful and even elegiac in tone, that's understandable. Great Britain's vote to leave the European Union was, after all, a repudiation of his legacy as Prime Minister. And if it isn't as mournful as it might have been - well, Blair has done quite well for himself since leaving office, which must provide some consolation for his errors. The people of Great Britain won't be so lucky. Neither will Americans, if they follow the British path. One thing is clear: Although Tony Blair laments the failure of the "political center," this didn't happen because he and his colleagues failed. It happened because they succeeded. Advertisement Why Leave Won It's impossible to discuss the Brexit vote without first acknowledging the fundamental role that racism and xenophobia played in its outcome. English voters' national identity and religion -their primordial whiteness - was a key element in the Leave victory. Nigel Farage, head of the far-right UKIP party and a leader of the Leave campaign, described Muslim immigrants as "a fifth column" and exhorted voters to be "braver" in "standing up for our Judaeo-Christian culture." That's racism, pure and simple. But the Leave campaign also preyed on economic fear and uncertainty. A bad economy makes people more vulnerable to nativist demagogues. Leave fostered helpless rage, saying that Great Britain was under the thumb of "faceless bureaucrats." It also claimed that the EU was costing too much. The far-right UK party sent a bus around the country painted with these words: "We send the EU 355 million a week. Let's fund the NHS instead." Advertisement Never mind that the figure is a lie, or that Farage reneged on the National Health Service pledge less than 24 hours after voting ended. It's still an extraordinary sight: a far-right party using one of British socialism's greatest achievements to sell its nativist agenda. But then, Tea Party demonstrators held signs saying "keep government out of my Medicare." Bipartisanship Lives Farage blames immigrants for Britain's economic problems, but won't lay a finger on crooked bankers. "The banking collapse was caused," he once claimed, "... by bad government policy and the total failure of bad regulation, rather than by greed." What nonsense. Whatever their differences, Tony Blair and Nigel Farage certainly share a belief in the innocence of bankers. "The right attacks immigrants while the left rails at bankers," Blair complains in his op-ed, describing both as "the venting of anger at those in power and the addiction to simple, demagogic answers to complex problems." That, too, is nonsense. But that kind of nonsense is popular on both sides of the Atlantic, among the self-described "centrists" who dominated both Bill Clinton's Democrats and Blair's Labor Party. Clinton defends bankers, too. It was Clinton who characterized criticism of crooked bankers as "blood lust" and told Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner that if he took Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein "into a dark alley and slit his throat ... it would satisfy them for about two days." Advertisement Like Blair, Clinton is unable to distinguish between irrational hatred and a wish to see the law enforced evenhandedly against bankers. But then Clinton, like Blair, has made a lot of money from bankers. Both men employed social liberalism and personal charm to turn their parties rightward and expand the power of the global financial sector. They and their associates shared a common inclination to dismiss the left - once the heart and soul of their own parties - as the vestige of a dead age, a nest of shrill and clueless extremists no better than the right. Blair, Right or Wrong That's not to say Tony Blair gets everything wrong. He correctly notes that Leave could not have prevailed without a significant number of Labor voters. In fact, a number of Labor strongholds voted solidly for it. And he's right that most of these voters were "worried about their flatlining incomes and cuts in public spending." And yet, Blair takes no responsibility for those flattened incomes or public spending cuts. He should. They're the direct result, not only of David Cameron's economic mismanagement, but of New Labor's policies: its bent toward privatization, its dismissive attitude toward the public sector (combined with a fawning attitude toward business), its hostility toward unions, and its support for a global economic order that favors corporations over working people. Blair also overlooks his own unique role in fostering immigration, especially from Syria. Blair deceived his nation into joining the US war with Iraq - a war that is the direct cause of today's Syrian crisis. The British haven't forgiven him. In a study conducted just last month, 53 percent of those polled agreed with this statement: Advertisement "I can never forgive Tony Blair for what I think he did wrong." Only eight percent considered Blair innocent of wrongdoing. Dead Center Undeterred, Blair frets that "the political center has lost its power to persuade and its essential means of connection to the people it seeks to represent." But the problem isn't the sales pitch, Mr. Blair. The problem is the product. The "centrists" in Tony Blair's New Labor and Bill Clinton's New Democrats might disagree with their electoral opponents about certain policies, but they agreed with them on some key principles: the power of free markets, the privatization of government services, and a global economic order which emphasized corporate control over trade. This shared ideology led to bank deregulation, weakened unions, personality-driven elections, stagnant wages, soaring inequality, and the undermining of the social contract - all executed with "bipartisan" comity. The public is tasting the fruit of these centrist successes now. Turns out they don't much care for it. The Uninvited Socialist Jeremy Corbyn now leads Blair's party. The Conservatives are likely to be led by rabble-rousing Leaver Boris Johnson. It's hard to tell which might offend Blair's urbane sensibilities more: the bearded and rough-hewn Corbyn, or Johnson, a grinning mop-top who comes across like the product of an unholy gene-splicing experiment between Nick Nolte and a Lhasa Apso. (UPDATE: In a surprise announcement, Johnson withdrew from the nomination race on Thursday.) Advertisement Blair unironically laments the public's loss of respect for "experts." He fails to note that the experts in question repeatedly failed to predict the effects of their own policies - and paid no price for their failures. But then, neither has Blair. "Let's take back control," said the side of that UKIP bus. Control has been lost, all right, but not to "faceless bureaucrats." It's been lost to global elites, and to the politicians and "experts" who serve them. The global financial system needs to be reformed, democratized, and taken out of their hands. The Home Front It's unclear what Britain's vote means for the US. This country differs demographically from Great Britain, and right now Trump's poll numbers are devastatingly bad. But the election is months away. A lot can happen. Trump certainly bears a stylistic resemblance to his British counterparts. He calls his opponents "lying Ted" and "crooked Hillary," while Farage calls Cameron "Dishonest Dave." He embarrasses the GOP establishment by saying racist things they'd rather just hint at. It isn't working - at least, not yet. Could it? This measurement of anti-immigrant "fear" isn't perfect (more on its methodology here), but it suggests two things: that there is much greater fear of immigrants in Great Britain than there is in the US, and that this fear is nevertheless unusually high in the US right now. Advertisement Democratic complacency would be foolish. Even a Trump defeat would likely be a one-shot affair, based more on his extravagant defects than on Democratic strengths. Trump's trade speech this week spoke to people's pain in a deceptive but surprisingly effective way. Democrats will only damage themselves if they keep supporting NAFTA-like trade deals and other harmful pro-corporate policies, either explicitly or implicitly. Voters understand that these policies played a major role in their current misery. The New New Democrats Hillary Clinton broke with Barack Obama by declaring her opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the latest bad trade deal. But, thanks to her campaign's appointees on the platform committee, the Democratic Party's draft platform does not include language opposing the TPP. Bernie Sanders was told that's because the party doesn't want to "embarrass" President Obama. Know what would really embarrass President Obama? Seeing his party lose the presidency to Donald Trump. This omission doesn't make sense - unless Clinton doesn't really object to the TPP at all. That's how the public is likely to see it, anyway. A failure to condemn the TPP would seriously wound the party's chances - up and down the ticket, now and in years to come. Advertisement It's true that Trump would undoubtedly break his economic promises, just as Farage has done. And it's reassuring to know that Trump's campaign is being rejected by younger voters, just as Leave's was. They're the future, after all. But young voters also rejected the establishment Democrat in this year's primary. And this election is happening now, not in some unforged tomorrow. News that the U.S. Department of State will hold talks next month with the United Arab Emirates and Qatar is, to this longtime observer of U.S. international aviation, a significant victory for American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. For almost 18 months, these three airlines and their union partners have worked hard to spread the clear evidence that the three airlines from these small nations, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways, have been -- and continue to be -- receiving billions of dollars of cash from their government owners, distorting competition worldwide. Secretary of State John Kerry and senior officials at the State Department understand that the two Gulf nations are massively subsidizing their carriers with billions of dollars in cash, in violation of U.S. Open Skies agreements. And now State is trying to work out a remedy. Not surprisingly, the media and many in Washington are mischaracterizing this milestone as a "loss" for the U.S. airlines. On the contrary, it is a serious setback for the Gulf carriers and their government owners. Advertisement The State Department could easily have declined to take any action at all. Instead, it confirmed the evidence collected by American, Delta, United and seven labor unions, proof gathered in a painstaking, multi-year investigation. Why was such a lengthy and painstaking investigation required? Because neither the UAE nor Qatar require the kind of honest and transparent reporting of financial data that we take for granted in the U.S. Furthermore, it has been reported that the U.S. delegation is headed by Undersecretary of State Catherine Novelli, who is highly experienced with trade issues from both private sector and government perspectives (she was formerly a senior executive with Apple and a former assistant U.S. Trade Representative). Indeed, Ms. Novelli's bio notes that one of her duties is to "address global challenges in a transparent, rules-based, and sustainable system." She is precisely the sort of person who has looked carefully at the evidence and will recommend appropriate action. The fact is, this issue will take time and diplomacy to work out a solution. These nations are determined to use their significant financial resources to undermine the global aviation business, even if it requires taking massive losses on flights that make no rational, economic sense. Using $42 billion in subsidies and other unfair benefits, such as abusive labor practices, they are undermining American jobs. The same thing is happening in Europe. In June, the EU transport commissioner called for renegotiation of the terms under which the subsidized Gulf carriers enjoy broad access to European markets. Within the last year, the governments of France, Germany and the Netherlands have all instituted freezes on new Gulf carrier flights to their countries because of the harm from the massive subsidies. Advertisement Behind the "right to bear arms" lies concealed the right to make money. You know, a lot of it. The right to . . . I pause here, torn apart by the political sacredness of these words. We have the right to speak freely and worship the God or our choosing or none at all, the right to reasonable privacy, the right to choose our leaders, the right to fair and equal treatment under the law. These rights are inscribed in the national bedrock: the Constitution. They activate our humanity; without them, we're so much less than our fullest selves. Without them we're perpetual victims, forced to live in fear and secrecy. This bizarrely worded right is also etched in the Constitution: "A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the People to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed." Whatever the founders actually meant by this amendment -- and there's no doubt more politics of the moment inscribed here than eternal wisdom -- succeeding generations of Americans have had no doubt what it means, reducing it to five words: the right to bear arms. And thus being armed -- owning a gun -- enters the realm of inviolable rights. It becomes a basic necessity for being human: the key to empowerment. Just try taking that away, baby. Advertisement But there's a gaping paradox here. The right to bear arms, especially as it has come to be interpreted -- the right to own an assault rifle, the right to carry a gun pretty much anywhere and everywhere, the right to kill your enemy -- is something far, far more than an isolated, individual freedom. NRA propaganda to the contrary, one person's right to bear arms takes away, ultimately, another person's right to live in safety. To put it another way, the right to bear arms establishes a particular precondition for social order, as described so unforgettably by NRA executive vice president Wayne LaPierre: "The only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is with a good guy with a gun." Under this view of the world, "safety" requires arming everyone, or at least everyone who's good. Welcome to the universe of Thomas Hobbes and the war of all against all. Arming everyone is arguably the stupidest possible concept for maintaining social order. It negates trust, empathy, compassion and all the better angels of human nature, reducing society to a buzzing hive of endless suspicion. And peace is cynically degraded to "that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading." (Imagine the laughter this observation would have generated at the Pulse nightclub a few weeks ago.) LaPierre's iconic observation, while socially brain dead, is, however, a terrific advertising slogan. The concept of self-defense, which started revving up in the early '90s, revived the ailing gun industry, which was hurting badly because of a declining interest in hunting. Advertisement "A solution, of sorts," Evan Osnos writes in a recent New Yorker article, "arrived in 1992, when a Los Angeles jury acquitted four police officers of using excessive force in the beating of Rodney King. The city erupted in riots. . . . The new market for self-defense guns was born . . . and it was infused with racial anxiety. "Selling to buyers who were concerned about self-defense," Osnos adds, "was even better than selling to hunters, because self-defense has no seasons." Even as the country has grown statistically safer, America's obsession with armed self-defense has intensified, stoked in recent years by a fear of terrorism. Rebecca Solnit, writing recently in The Guardian, put it this way: "What we see over and over is that this society would like to imagine our epidemic of violence is by 'them' -- some kind of marginal category: terrorist, mentally ill, nonwhite. But when it comes to mass killings, mostly it's an epidemic of 'us' --mainstream men, mostly white, often young, usually miserable." Another thing about the right to bear arms -- which equals the right to sell guns -- is that it can tolerate no downside. For several decades now, the congressional majority has been so closely allied with the NRA and the gun industry that it has managed to put a near total kibosh on scientific research into guns as a public health issue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has "not touched firearm research since 1996 -- when the NRA accused the agency of promoting gun control and Congress threatened to strip the agency's funding," Todd C. Frankel wrote last year in the Washington Post. "The CDC's self-imposed ban dried up a powerful funding source and had a chilling effect felt far beyond the agency: Almost no one wanted to pay for gun violence studies, researchers say. Young academics were warned that joining the field was a good way to kill their careers." Advertisement This is the right to bear arms. You might call it the right to be afraid -- afraid of regulation, afraid of consequences. The enemy is everywhere. But there are other ways to live. "They expect a fight. I just talk to people," Lee Goodman told me, referring to the way he handles the occasional hate call he gets. Goodman, of Peaceful Communities, has been leading protest demonstrations at gun shops and gun shows in the Chicago area for many years now. The large matter at stake here is a different way of looking at the world. Goodman emphasizes that his approach is non-confrontational. "At two of the gun shops, guys walked out with guns on their hips" -- over to where the protesters were standing. "They had to be prepared to face down peaceful protesters with guns on their hips. 'Do you really need it? Do you really think you'll have to kill us?' I asked. His response: 'Well, I have a right to have it.'" Goodman added: "We're never belligerent. We try to show by example: You don't have to be afraid of the world. Understanding replaces hate." You might call it the right to bear courage. - - - Robert Koehler is an award-winning, Chicago-based journalist and nationally syndicated writer. Contact him at koehlercw@gmail.com or visit his website at commonwonders.com. Advertisement Book Review To Cry And Laugh, Simultaneously By Sam Bahour "Remember, whatever you do in life, for them you will always, but always, be an Arab. Do you understand?" Native: Dispatches from an Israeli-Palestinian Life By Sayed Kashua Saqi Books (acquired UK and Commonwealth rights) April 2016 Palestinian-Israeli writer Sayed Kashua should be commended for writing this book, as should be the publishers who took on the task of bringing it to the English reading community. Where diplomacy has failed, politics has stumbled, and common sense remains a rare commodity, one hopes that Kashua's shrewd satire and political barbs can break open closed minds and pave the way for a breakthrough for Palestinians and Israelis. If not, Kashua is fully content in just making the reader laugh, then freeze, knowing the words are reality, then cry, as he pokes fun at everyone, mostly himself. Advertisement Kashua's poor wife! She seems like such a wonderful person, loving and caring, but she is the target of his relentless attacks and haphazard lifestyle. I'm actually considering starting a humanitarian drive to support her, a sort of Brexit, maybe we'll call it Kaexit. You'll understand after you read the book. This book of short stories is organized into four parts based around specific timeframes, as is each story. The parts are: Warning Signs (2006-2007), Foreign Passports (2008-2010), Antihero (2010-2012), The Stories That I Don't Dare Tell (2012-2014). For anyone living in Israel/Palestine, or even having an inkling of knowledge about the places, the ability to relate to the story lines is immediate. Kashua dives much deeper than the superficial political issues; he enters his home, family, culture and so much more. The most volatile chapters are when he enters his own mind; read with caution, always remembering that satire comes from reality. Given I read this book while on a vacation with my family in the US, it took on even more of a meaningful read. Kashua writes, "There are Israelis who say that only after leaving the country did they realize how illogical life is there, how stressed they were, and how all of a sudden there are different concerns now. Concerns related to work, to everyday life, to the weather, and mainly to the family." He could have easily replaced "Israeli" with "Palestinians," as he frequently does, and all would have remained true. Kashua comically amplifies the convoluted reality in both Palestine and Israel, which is causing the younger generations to voluntarily walk out and relocate to saner corners of the world--I would add, only to find those new corners are called Brussels, Paris, London and Orlando, all with their own share of convolution. Advertisement As Kashua walks the reader through his family's decision to leave Israel and emigrate to Chicago, he writes, "I must help my children understand that Israel is not the end of the world--that if, God forbid, they don't succeed there and they feel ostracized, different, or suspect, or when reality blows up in their faces, they'll know that there are other options. It's true that they'll be different, but in a different way. They'll be immigrants, and maybe they'll have an accent, and they'll feel a little strange. But they'll be strangers in a strange land, and not in their homeland." That last line says it all! Palestinians, be they citizens of Israel or residents living under Israeli military occupation in the West Bank or Gaza Strip, awaiting their long-delayed state, are all being made to feel like strangers in our own land. The result will be tragic. Kashua repeats a phrase that his father repeatedly told him, "only the beginnings are hard." Let's believe that and hope that new beginnings don't have to include one reaching a point where they can no longer live in their own homeland, but rather restart their lives right at home. Reviewing this book evoked a serious contradiction in my mind. On the one hand, the book deserves to be read and commented on in its own right, having been written in Hebrew and translated into English. It's a book aimed at our funny bone, but the underlying truths are too close to home. A hopeful takeaway from this heartfelt effort is that more Palestinian citizens of Israel are making their voice heard, in other than Arabic, which holds the hope that as more people, especially Jews around the world, get a peek into what Israel has become, change will be forthcoming. The Saqi Books website states, "Sarah Cleave, publishing manager of Saqi Books, who acquired rights from Abner Stein in association with the Deborah Harris Agency, said 'Native is a wickedly sardonic, moving and hugely entertaining collection that offers real insight into the lived experiences of Palestinians in Israel.'" This is so true. Advertisement UNITED STATES - MARCH 23: Pro-choice demonstrators including Stephanie Castro, right, and Sandra Sanchez of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, appear outside of the Supreme Court as arguments were heard in a case which religious organizations are challenging the Affordable Care Act's provision that requires employers to cover birth control in health care plans, March 23, 2016. (Photo By Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call) Monday's Supreme Court decision -- striking down onerous and dangerous Texas regulations on abortion clinics and requiring similar repeals nationwide -- was a major victory for women and families across the country. The costly and medically unnecessary provisions of the Texas law are hallmarks of TRAP laws (Targeted Regulation of Abortion Providers), which have been used as tools by anti-choice legislators to steadily and strategically chip away at a woman's right to choose in states around the country. We should celebrate the Supreme Court's decision to strike down regulations that have made comprehensive health care access an impossible reality for millions of women, but we cannot allow ourselves to become complacent. Anti-choice legislators will continue to make reproductive healthcare as unaffordable and inaccessible for as many women as possible. As Secretary Hillary Clinton, has said, "Any right that requires you to take extraordinary measures to access it is no right at all....not as long as we have laws on the book like the Hyde Amendment making it harder for low-income women to exercise their full rights." Advertisement For those of us who understand that the Constitution truly does extend women the right to do what we decide is best for our own lives and bodies, ensuring that the right to reproductive access is a reality in practice, not just on paper, must be our focus. All women -- not just the privileged few -- must be able to afford and access this right. Millions of women face an affordability crisis because their only option for healthcare coverage does not include abortion services. Most women in the military do not have insurance coverage that comprehensively covers abortion procedures, and our poorest sisters on Medicaid are also barred from insurance coverage for abortion in most states. Additionally, many state insurance exchanges do not allow women the opportunity to purchase plans that cover abortion care. On the federal level, we must repeal the Hyde Amendment by passing the EACH Woman Act to ensure a woman's ability to exercise her constitutional reproductive rights will not be based on how much she earns or how she is insured. The Hyde Amendment is why military women, women on Medicaid and federal employees have healthcare coverage that does not include abortion services, severely restricting their access. This year is the first in which the Democratic Party platform calls for the repeal of the Hyde Amendment, a step in the right direction to finally end this attack on our rights. The federal government should act to right this wrong, but states needn't wait for that to happen. I am proud that in California our state has stepped up to ensure that poor California women utilizing MediCal do have comprehensive reproductive insurance coverage despite the federal restriction. Sixteen other states have acted as well. Elected officials in more states must step up and declare that poor women should have an equal ability to exercise their constitutional rights. Advertisement Although we made great strides with the passage of the Affordable Care Act, women in 25 states are unable to purchase health care plans on the health insurance exchange that include full abortion coverage. There must be efforts launched in these states and at the federal level to require that women are able to purchase insurance plans that are truly comprehensive, and meet their healthcare needs. For those of us who are not elected officials, voting and volunteering for campaigns are among the most important actions we can take. This year, we have the opportunity to change the course of women's health care in this country for a generation. On Monday, we saw the power of the Supreme Court. The next President could appoint as many as five justices, which will have a lasting impact on our nation's laws regarding women's healthcare access and affordability. Hillary Clinton has been an avid fighter for women's reproductive rights for decades. We know that, as President, she will continue that fight to ensure that all women will be able to exercise their constitutionally-guaranteed right to make decisions about their own reproductive futures. On the other hand, we must not leave our healthcare decisions in the hands of the reckless Donald Trump, who recently horrified even anti-choice activists by saying that women who need an abortion should be treated as criminals and punished. To ensure that reproductive rights are an affordable reality, we need not only the next President to champion this effort. We must elect a U.S. Senate willing to confirm these Justices, and both houses of Congress must be ready to pass legislation like the EACH Woman Act. Down-ballot state elections will give us an even greater opportunity to elect pro-choice legislators who we can trust to pass laws that benefit the health and well-being of all women and families. On Monday, the Supreme Court reminded us that the right to an abortion cannot simply exist on paper, but rather that it must be truly a reality for all women. While their decision is definitely cause for celebration, let's use the energy behind that victory to organize and vote to create real and lasting change, ensuring that our rights are not just privileges for the select few. When we first received funding in 2012 and joined the 500 Startups accelerator in Silicon Valley, we hit what many others would consider the startup jackpot for relocation. But when the program ended we pivoted our company into an Influencer Marketing Platform and began generating revenue immediately, forcing us to make decisions on where to scale out our team. When it comes time to hire you think about permanency more, lifestyle more, and of course, finances more. We had always been drawn to Austin, the smaller and weirder city that is also known for technology and talent. There are tech hot spots popping up all over the country -- Colorado, Washington DC, Raleigh, NC among others -- but the appeal of Austin was too great for us to ignore. We moved our tech startup to Austin, and here's three reasons why you should too. After all, twice as many people leave California for Texas out of any other state in the country. Advertisement Growing tech scene and fresh talent. It's no secret that the tech scene has been growing rapidly in Austin over the last several years, but I don't think people realize just how much. Dell and IBM are two of the city's largest employers, while Apple has brought more than 5,000 jobs to the city by way of its new 38-acre campus. Stalwarts like Facebook, Amazon, Google, and Rackspace all have offices in Austin too. The University of Texas at Austin has a lively, large campus of over 51,000 students that are eager to find employment within the city upon graduation. It's no wonder UT students are in high demand -- with the most popular majors being Business and Engineering, over 13,000 qualified graduates enter the job market each year. And how could you forget SXSW, which has become the go-to conference for innovation each year and has launched platforms like Twitter, Foursquare, and Meerkat? Innovation breeds innovation, and there's plenty of it in Austin. Plenty of funding opportunities. Many think a Silicon Valley address is a requirement in order to gain access to funding that can help grow your company. Austin proves otherwise, as the city had one of its best years ever in 2014 in terms of startup funding secured, bringing in a total of $993M for 115 companies. The city also saw $437M paid from exits, including 29 acquisitions and two IPOs. Advertisement Why is this important? It means investors aren't honed in only on the SV area, and that Austin has built a reputation as a tech hub that breeds successful and innovative companies. As a startup, you want to know that you have access to funds should you need them. Plus, Austin is centrally located between San Francisco and NYC making flights to either coast a breeze. Cost of living is 50 percent less. We all remember the story from earlier this year when a Yelp employee wrote a blog post about how she spends 80 percent of her salary paying rent in San Francisco. This is a sad but true reality for many tech workers in Silicon Valley right now -- the cost of living is just too high. A recent study shows that while a software engineer makes more on average in San Francisco than in Austin, when adjusted based on cost of living in San Francisco, the Austin salary ($195K) trumps the SF salary ($132K) by almost 50 percent. Median home prices in SF ($1.1M) are astronomical compared to Austin ($290,000) and the rental market for one bedroom apartments ($3,500 in SF; $1,200 in Austin) follow suit. As a startup, you want your employees to give you their all, as well as enjoy a comfortable life outside of the office. Supporters of soda taxes are celebrating a major victory as Philadelphia's City Council approved a measure to tax sweetened drinks by 1.5 cents per ounce. Unlike past proposals, the initiative was framed by Jim Kenney, Philadelphia's mayor, as a way to raise millions of dollars of revenue to fund a variety of early childhood education programs. The initiative has earned a predictable response from anti-tax groups like Americans for Tax Reform (ATR), which published a criticism of the new tax in Forbes. We shouldn't be surprised: Americans for Tax Reform has been one of the most vocal and prominent opponent of tobacco taxes for decades, now with a new enemy in the burgeoning city-level movement towards taxing sodas. Despite their longstanding opposition, however, ATR has routinely failed to disclose direct conflicts of interest, such as the $175,000 they received from R.J. Reynolds in 2012. When I tweeted at the author of ATR's article to ask why he did not disclose financial contributions from the tobacco or soda industry in his piece, the silence was deafening. Advertisement The most disconcerting aspect of this conflict of interest is how little we know, because ATR does not disclose its donors. The only reason that the public was able to discover R.J. Reynold's $175,000 contribution to ATR in 2012 was at the "behest of an unnamed shareholder" at the company. Internal tobacco industry documents detail the extent of this relationship, describing ATR as a "staunch ally of Phillip Morris for a number of years in many tax battles." R.J. Reynolds, a major tobacco company, even explicitly acknowledged in an internal document in 1999 that a key part of their strategy was to "mobilize key third party groups (such as Americans for Tax Reform, CART, NSA, and others), to ensure that RJR's message is effectively communicated, reinforced, and understood by key opinion leaders." This relationship isn't new -- Grover Norquist, the founder and president of ATR, has lobbied on behalf of tobacco companies for several decades. Although we can't know whether ATR has recently received money from the soda industry, past experience does not look good. Understanding that they've already lost the battle on tobacco, ATR has pivoted to oppose soda taxes. ATR's stated reasoning invokes concern for social justice, arguing that soda taxes disproportionately affect the poor. This tired argument ignores the evidence we have on tobacco taxes -- poor people pay a lower percentage of tobacco taxes but receive most of the health gains, because they actually stop smoking. Advertisement Chart courtesy of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities Certainly, soda taxes are a relatively new policy idea, so we don't know exactly how they will financially impact the poor. However, ATR's writers routinely make the mistake of failing to weigh the positive health impact of a soda tax alongside their financial burden. They also neglect to mention the value of additional funding for early childhood education, which could impact childhood poverty. Given ATR's ideological, across-the-board commitment to lowering taxes regardless of their substance, this mistake is nothing new. Fortunately, the prevailing opinion on soda taxes is that we've probably already reached a tipping point, meaning that ATR's opposition has come too little, too late. Cities in the United States and around the world, from Mexico City to London, are aiming to implement versions of soda taxes. Power up with these nourishing treats. For SELF, by Audrey Bruno. Photo: Dana and John Shultz via minimalistbaker.com When you come down with a snack attack, it's important to choose your sustenance wisely. A bag of chips may squash your salt hankerings, but it's probably not actually going to hold you over for very long. You need something more substantial to really knock out those hunger pangs and keep you feeling satiated throughout your day. You need something high in protein. Unlike the carbs in those chips, protein takes a long time to digest. The amino acids that make up protein take a while to break down and utilize, explains Rebecca Scritchfield, R.D., host of the Body Kindness Podcast, keeping you satisfied longer. (Your body uses the amino acids in protein to repair and develop your muscles, which is why it's so important to stock up on this nutrient after a workout.) The right amount of protein is different for everyone. Scritchfield recommends eating about 0.5 grams of protein for every pound of body weight, but this could vary depending on your body type and level of activity. One thing she warns against? Eating all your protein at once. "You don't need a bunch of protein to get the satiating effect," she says. In fact if you do eat too much protein, your body is more likely to store the excess nutrient as fat, she explains. Advertisement So you're going to want to spread out when you eat protein throughout the day, and that's where these snacks come in. These 14 recipes have enough protein to give you the boost you need to get from meal to meal. Plus, most of them are easy to store and transport to work. Keep them at your desk or in your office fridge for whenever hunger strikes. 1. Edamame Avocado Hummus from Well Plated Photo: Erin Clarke via wellplated.com Edamame has an unexpectedly large amount of protein--17 grams per one cup. You can find it in the freezer section of most grocery stores and defrost it to snack on all by itself, or in this spin on hummus. This recipe will keep in the fridge for three to five days, so make a large batch of it at the beginning of the week so you always have an emergency high-protein snack on hand. Get the recipe here. Per One Serving: 169 calories; 5 grams protein Greek yogurt is another great source of protein. Unfortunately, this frozen treat is not something you can easily sneak to the office, as it's likely to melt on your way there. Keep it in your freezer for a satiating dessert or after work treat. Get the recipe here. Advertisement Per One Serving: 83 calories; 2.5 grams protein When cooking pumpkin, don't forget to reserve the seeds--they're not-so-secretly packing the protein (one ounce has 9 grams!). Plus they're easy to roast and store for long periods of time, and make a great crunchy addition to tons of recipes. Take this spicy spin to the office and snack on it throughout the day. Get the recipe here. Per One Serving: 81 calories; 3 grams protein 4. Cheesy Chia Seed Crackers from The Iron You Photo: Mike Brosio via theironyou.com Each of these crackers has 1 gram of protein. That may not seem like a lot, but with each cracker clocking only 20 calories, a handful of these will get you quite a bit of that important nutrient. You can thank chia seeds, almond meal, parmesan cheese, and an egg for the surplus of protein in this recipe. Get the recipe here. Per One Cracker: 20 calories; 1 gram protein 5. Banana Oatmeal Fitness Cookies from Hurry The Food Up Photo: Kat Grober, Dave Bell, and Howie Fox via hurrythefoodup.com Satisfy your sweet tooth and fill up on protein at the same time with these nutritious cookies. You'll find oats, walnuts, and sesame seeds in this recipe--all great sources of protein. Eating four cookies will cost you less than 200 calories, and get you 4 grams of protein closer to the daily recommended amount. Get the recipe here. Per One Cookie: 43 calories; 1 grams protein Related: 10 Healthy Snacks That Only Need 3 Ingredients 6. Spicy Garlic Edamame from SkinnyTaste Photo: Gina Homolka via skinnytaste.com Back at it again with high-protein favorite, edamame! This snack is so simple to make, you can whip it up at home in less than three minutes. Make a bunch ahead of time and pop it in the office microwave when you're feeling famished. Get the recipe here. Advertisement Per One Serving: 152 calories; 10 grams protein 7. Banana Matcha Energy Bites from Two Purple Figs Photo: Mahy Elamin via twopurplefigs.com These bars get a high protein count from an assortment of nutritious and familiar ingredients--oats, seeds, nuts, and flax powder are all great sources of protein. Bonus: Matcha powder is also a secretly a protein-packer, and just 3 grams has 1 gram of protein. Get the recipe here. Per One Serving: 197 calories; 6.5 grams protein 8. Cajun Trail Mix from Eating Bird Food Photo: Brittany Mullins via eatingbirdfood.com Trail mix is another easy-to-store high-protein favorite. This spicy version is very easy to eat--if you're looking to lose weight, be sure not to accidentally munch on more than one serving at snack time. Get the recipe here. Per One Serving: 190 calories; 7 grams protein 9. Almond-Poppy Crackers from The Iron You Photo: Mike Brosio via theironyou.com A great way to give these high-protein crackers an extra kick? Top them with another protein-packed ingredient. They'll taste great with a goat cheese spread or a nut butter of your choosing. Get the recipe here. Per One Cracker: 60 calories; 2 grams protein 10. Vegan Double Chocolate Protein Fudge from Nutritionist In The Kitch Photo: Christal Sczebel via nutritionistinthekitch.com Thought fudge was just for dessert? Think again. Instead of using actual chocolate, this treat gets that same gooey, fudge-like texture and taste from ground dates and raw cocoa powder. An assortment of almond ingredients (butter, milk, and raw chopped almonds) kick up the protein count. If you're looking for an extra boost, definitely include the extra oats which are listed as optional in the recipe. Get the recipe here. Advertisement Per One Serving: 150 calories; 10 grams protein 11. Crispy Crunchy Ranch Chickpeas from Kim's Cravings Photo: Kim Lee via kimscravings.com Always try to keep chickpeas on hand. One cup has 15 grams of protein, and cans of chickpeas are incredibly affordable and easy to store in your pantry. This recipe has that same satisfying salty-quality you could get from a bag of chips, with a fraction of the calories. Get the recipe here. Per One Serving: 71 calories; 3 grams protein Photo: Dana and John Shultz via minimalistbaker.com Think of these no-bake goodies as cake-pops that are actually good for you. Again, dates help give it that same baked good aesthetic--chia seeds, nut butter, and oats turn it into a satisfying snack. Get the recipe here. Per One Ball: 92 calories; 2 grams protein Related: 10 Healthy Snacks That Only Need 3 Ingredients 13. Vegan Pizza Poppers from Kim's Cravings Photo: Kim Lee via kimscravings.com Pizza flavor + protein = perfection. Ground flax seed and whole wheat flour are the secrets behind the high protein count in these bites. Eat about five of them for a complete snack. Get the recipe here. Per One Pizza Bite: 38 calories; 1 gram protein These bars are covered in dark chocolate (yay!) and super satisfying. All the usual high-protein ingredients (seeds, oats, nut butter) make appearances in the recipe, but what takes it to the next level is a dollop of tahini. One tablespoon of this umami-blast has 3 grams of protein, and turns this recipe into the sweet and savory treat you didn't know you needed. Get the recipe here. Advertisement A Bulgarian art exhibition at the Beijing Language and Culture University hosted the President of the National Assembly in Bulgaria, Tsetska Tsacheva, on Wednesday. Tsetska Tsacheva, President of the National Assembly in Bulgaria, delivers a speech at the Beijing Language and Culture University, on June 29, 2016. [Photo by Bi Nan/chinadaily.com.cn] The President's visit to the BLCU is one of many planned in China aimed at cultural communication between China and Bulgaria, which is a major event during the China-EU high level people-to-people dialogue. Tsetska Tsacheva said she appreciated the artwork of Professor Plamen Legkostup, Board Chairman at the University of Beliko Tarnowo's Confucius Institute, and expressed her hope to deepen the friendship and cultural exchange between the two countries. "The Professor Plamen Legkostup's paintings have traditional Bulgarian style, while fused Chinese elements as well, which are the reflections of the communication and fusion of Chinese and Bulgarian cultures," Tsetska Tsacheva said. The exhibition, titled "Impressions of Civilizations", has 49 paintings by Plamen Legkostup on display, including prints, computer graphics and acrylic paints. Many pieces were created by Plamen when he was travelling in China. Dedicated to art for more than 30 years, he has exhibited his works in many countries including Germany, France and Russia. Li Yuming, the Beijing Language and Culture University's party secretary, said the art exhibition was a meaningful and effective way to bridge friendship and communication between the two countries. "We welcome more Bulgarian experts coming to China and encourage more Chinese scholars go to Bulgaria to conduct exchange programs." Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. I'm an accidental philanthropist, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I first got involved in Easter Seals nearly 15 years ago when my former boss, part of the West Palm Beach Easter Seals founding group, "asked" me to help out with an event. I obliged, and was instantly amazed at the passion and good-hearted nature of the people that were a part of the organization. It was contagious. The more I got involved, the more I wanted to get involved. I now serve on the Easter Seals Florida Board and assist with events, including the Get Down to Business Lunch. The organization, and philanthropy, are now a part of me and my business. You don't have to have an ulterior motive when getting started to benefit from giving your time to a great cause. There are causes that need your support and help and plenty to gain from being involved. Here are seven ways your business can benefit from getting involved in philanthropy: - Relationships I fell in love with philanthropy because of the people. I've made many friends and built new relationships I'll value forever. These relationships only develop if you are generous with your time and help, not intentionally trying to advance your business by getting involved in philanthropy. The relationships you create with the other volunteers, organizers, employees, and people you're helping will benefit you personally, and when appropriate, can help your business. Since relationships are based on trust, and it's likely that if they trust you they will trust your business, even things you do outside of the office will have an impact on your company. - Community Trust and Awareness Communities support local businesses that are an active part of the community. Volunteering and finding ways to help the community outside of the products and services you provide shows them that you're dedicated and proud to give back to the community. This service also gets you and your name in front of the community, raising awareness of your company. - Brand Alignment In return for donations and event sponsorships, companies receive recognition from these organizations and have their brand aligned with the brand of a nonprofit. Having your company's name placed alongside important causes and inspiring organizations helps raise the opinion of what you're doing in the minds of customers, partners, and the general public. This alignment shows your dedication to making a positive difference, and it will become a part of your business, which can be more beneficial than any traditional paid advertising. - Learning I had little experience in event planning and being part of an organization's board before getting involved with Easter Seals. It's impossible not to learn and gain new expertise, even if taking a volunteer role that has similar duties to your current one. This knowledge can be implemented in the processes and procedures within your company. - Exclusive Opportunities Each year I'm involved in the Get Down to Business Lunch. Hundreds of business leaders and community members come out to the event to support children and families who need support. There are special opportunities and a dinner the night before that gives organizers and volunteers the ability to meet with the featured speaker and others to network and hang out. - Team Building Some teams pay to go out on retreats or spend thousands on team-building activities. While those can certainly be beneficial, volunteering is also a great way to strengthen the bond amongst your employees and can bring vital help to a cause. Getting involved as a company helps bring your team together, and they will also gain from many of the other benefits listed above. Strengthening your team also improves your business - making it more efficient and improving the corporate culture, which is contagious in a good way. - A Much-Needed Break Take a load off! Sure, volunteering is hard work, but it offers a change of scenery and will give you a much-needed break from your daily grind. I come up with my best ideas when out of the office. It's hard to feel that you have time to spend outside of your business, but sometimes it's the most productive thing you can do. I give back because it makes me feel good, and I know that even doing my small part contributes to a larger whole that's doing a lot of good. However you need to justify getting involved in philanthropy, your efforts will pay off for the organizations you give your time to, yourself, and your business. An Istanbul airport attacked, many souls have gone on... when will this end? How many times will we hear the same story in a different setting? I woke up to hear yet another story of bombings and lives lost. A series of deadly explosions tore through crowds at the Ataturk airport in Istanbul on Tuesday, killing at least 41 and wounding approximately 239. As I sit here at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport filled with sounds that drown out your own, folks walking fast and hearing the pattering of their feet, and watching every single person on a smartphone with heads down including me, I am writing this to you. No wonder no one was able to see anything suspicious at the Ataturk airport. We don't really "see" ourselves or each other anymore. We can communicate easier -- yet we "see" less. We can send a video, text or message around the world as soon as we hit the "send" button but we do not notice the HERE and NOW -- that is right in front of us. Advertisement I heard the Turkish officials have blamed the attack on Islamic State. According to the Turkish authorities, three gunmen armed with AK-47 rifles engaged security and police in a firefight near the airport's x-ray security checkpoint then detonated suicide vests. Thirteen foreigners were among the dead. It is important to find someone to blame right away instead of looking at the underlying thoughts and issues that caused a human being to kill these souls and later kill themselves. If we keep hearing about these bombings what are we being called to SEE and LEARN? What are we being signaled to be? What are we being motivated to do? Should we point our fingers to poverty? The wealthy and powerful? Islam? America? Israel? Or, are we ALL being challenged to ask the self, "Am I strong enough to rise and create a more peaceful world?" We are more concerned with finding someone to blame than actually looking at the causes behind these violent acts. What is behind the passport of the suicide bomber? What is behind his nationality? Can we look beyond a religion? Is it more important to find someone to blame than to find the thoughts that created these violent acts? There's a saying, "we become what we think." Is a suicide bomber actually saying to all of us that the intensity of feeling so powerless with one's life motivates him to just want to die and take everyone else with them? Is the money left behind to take care of his/her family really enough to travel within his own soul story? Are these violent acts the result and burden of a global pain of fear and suffering? We do not see our world as a whole. We have created a world out of fear and the illusion of separation. Is blaming something "out there" solving the problem? Does it give us a false sense of comfort to point fingers instead of finding a solution to this never-ending violence? What do you think world? What would you do to change this terror into comfort, this hostility into peace, and start creating a world where the thought that we are enough and we have enough becomes our natural way of being and doing? I find myself more than ever moving deeply into meditating my choices knowing that I will not choose until it yields the results that are good for ALL -- even if I have to make sacrifices. The complexity is that not everyone thinks this way. Not everyone is thinking about what is in the best interest of our world as a whole. Instead, everyone is protecting their own interests, their own thoughts, and supporting this illusion that we are separated from each other as if what happens elsewhere is okay as long as it doesn't affect "ME." However, why do we have social media? In a matter of seconds we can plant a message like a seed that stimulates the masses into creating a new collective thought. We can start growing thoughts that ask us to go inwards and meditate. We can consciously create feelings of love and forgiveness for others and ourselves to such an extent that it has to detonate in the mind of another child of God who thinks becoming a suicide bomber is his contribution to Allah. Meditate the Vote for me has taken over my way of seeing things from two perspectives, Light or Dark. Light unites while darkness continues to perpetuate the thought that we are all separated from each other. Are we? We are more united than ever through the power of social media but we still do not look up from our phones to truly SEE and notice each other. Most importantly, we do not take the time to look beyond our differences and learn how to LOVE and respect each other. Advertisement Brand recognition was simple in the days when television gave marketers a captive audience. The key was keeping your name and cute jingle in front of enough people, often enough. These days are no more. Consumers can choose what they will view and when, and don't appreciate invasive marketing. The challenge for Houston businesses is getting customers to choose to look at you on their own. What unique value does your business bring? Adding Value in Houston Brand Management One of the most effective ways to develop your brand today is through blogging. Want an edge on your competition? This is it. You can position yourself as an authority in your field. You can educate and engage consumers in meaningful conversation. It's ongoing value added. Effective and consistent blogging isn't easy to maintain, though. It requires time to research and develop topics. You will need practice to create ongoing engaging content. There are a wealth of tools online useful in improving your ability to write and manage blog posts. Your company's blog needs to be a dynamic brand-enhancing marketing strategy. The following 7 online tools will help you get started. Advertisement 1.Hubspot's Topc Generator Sometimes the hardest part of blogging is coming up with a steady stream of topics. Hubspot offers a Blog Topic Generator to address this difficulty. Enter in up to three different subjects and the generator will create five different titles -- enough for a week of blog posts. 2. Buzzsumo You may have some ideas for topics you would like to blog on, but do not feel confident in how well they would be received. BuzzSumo's content analyzer is the perfect place to research content performance potential. You can use it to flesh out new ideas or zero in on your perfect angle. 3. Grammarly Your professionalism will be reflected by the quality of writing in each blog you post. Grammarly offers one of the best writing improvement tools on the net today. It not only keeps your grammar and spelling in check but also helps you improve your writing. With Google Chrome and Word integration, it's a must-have for any serious writers. 4. WordPress Distraction Free Writing The busy-ness of running a business is often not ideal for creating engaging blog content. There are simply too many distractions. Embedded within the WordPress editor is a distraction-free editor. This will help you block out anything that challenges your ability to focus and create. This useful tool can be accessed via the four-way arrow icon at the top right corner of each WordPress post. Advertisement 5. Hemingway People are busy and have ever-shrinking attention spans. It's important to write at a reading level that is easy enough to read without being insulting. Generally, you should shoot for about an 8th-grade reading level. The Hemingway web app is a great tool to evaluate and simplify your writing. It also provides a readability grade to gauge complexity. 6. LinkedIn Pulse Imagine a platform where you could keep up to date with the trending topics in your industry, have access to industry leaders, be able to publish directly to your chosen audience, and improve your search engine visibility -- all in one. Believe it or not, that platform is LinkedIn Pulse. The benefits of using this tool in your online marketing plan are clearly too many and too good to pass it by. 7. Stock Images Adding at least one image to your blog enhances it in so many ways it'd be foolish not to. The right image can make the difference between a blog that is overlooked and one that is shared repeatedly. There are many great stock image sites available on the web such as DepositPhotos.com, and Shutterstock.com. Build Your Houston Brand, One Blog at a Time Blogging is a vital component of your Houston Brand Management strategy. Don't pass up the opportunity to distinguish yourself from your competition. You will develop a relationship with potential clients. Your voice will stand out and you will attract consumers to you. By Ruben Dieleman Over Budget - Mathis Wackernagel loves the outdoors. As a sustainability advocate, he travels the world to inform audiences about the global ecological footprint concept. How does he balance his travel schedule with his urgent call for less emissions in the world? Mathis Wackernagel, President of the Global Footprint Network, has been preaching his message about humanity's ecological footprint and what he calls "ecological overshoot" for more than a decade. These concepts both relate to the consequences and effects of economic growth worldwide. The ecological footprint, conceived by Wackernagel, is a tool that measures economic supply and its demand on nature. Humanity's demands have been exceeding the biosphere's supply since the 1970s, a phenomenon called ecological overshoot. Each year, the day on which humanity's resource consumption for the year exceeds the planet's capacity to regenerate those resources that year moves earlier on the calendar. In 2015, it was August 13. This year, it is August 8. Advertisement What does this mean? "It means that overshoot is structural. It now takes the Earth more than a year and a half to regenerate what humanity uses in a year," Wackernagel says. "Even if the date of Earth Overshoot Day stayed the same, that would not be helpful. That it keeps coming earlier means that we have not bucked the trend yet," Wackernagel says. This trend cannot go on for ever. "Will we get out of overshoot by design or by disaster? That is the big question," Wackernagel says. According to him, humanity still has a choice. "But we are not choosing wisely. I think we can still take fate into our own hands. It is like with money: why we cannot choose the same way we do about resources? Why can we work with budgets for money, but not for natural resources?" Can humanity as a whole really decide to take natural resources into account? Even Wackernagel admits we cannot afford to stop expanding, but unrestrained consumption of natural resources is not the way to do it. "We do not produce anything when we extract natural resources," Wackernagel says. "It is like moving money from your savings account to your checking account, and considering it to be newly earned money. Of course, it is not." Still, Wackernagel is no pessimist. "I have total faith in humanity's ability to deal with it. It is not like an asteroid that will hit us. We can transform our systems. It is technically and financially possible." The Swiss-born scientist proclaims that he is a technological optimist, but technology on its own will not change the trend yet. "What holds us back - despite urgent warnings from the UN, for instance - is that we do not see it for the true challenge it is. We cannot see beyond growth, even though we cannot go on forever like this. What happens if we cannot have growth? We are not thinking imaginatively enough about it." Advertisement Many initiatives surrounding sustainability nowadays are about "awareness." "I still do not entirely understand what this means," Wackernagel says. "I wonder if it really changes our fundamental behaviour. The values we have, about growth for example, do not shift easily, even if they are not based in reality anymore." Wackernagel hopes that his Work Session at the 46th St. Gallen Symposium may have contributed to the shift. "I hope that people have been a little bit disturbed, but not so much that they have been disgusted. And intrigued enough that my talk stuck with them, that it kind of nags and makes them ask themselves: what shall we do? What are the possibilities now?" Even for someone like Wackernagel, making a real difference feels like a challenge. Take travel: A rough calculation by the magazine suggests the cumulative distance travelled by all the symposium's visitors amounted to flying around the world 50 times over. Wackernagel flew from his home in California to be at the symposium. "I have solar panels at home. We have LED lights. We separate trash. I try not to waste any food. But I should have 6 times more solar panels just for my flight to Zurich, to compensate for my impact on the environment," he admits. "Let's be honest: I am adding to the problem. We could do so much better, we could achieve so much more." The sustainability advocate is suddenly pensive. "That is why I ask myself every day: am I adding value?" Advertisement A picture taken on May 24, 2016 in Lillo near Antwerp shows the Monsanto logo at the firm Manufacturing Site and Operations Center. German chemicals and pharmaceuticals giant Bayer, a household name thanks to its painkiller Aspirin, said this week that it is offering $122 per share in cash for Monsanto, or $62 billion (55 billion euros) in all. It would be the biggest takeover by a German group of a foreign company and would create a new world leader in seeds, pesticides and genetically modified (GM) crops. / AFP / JOHN THYS (Photo credit should read JOHN THYS/AFP/Getty Images) When a reputable-sounding nonprofit organization released a report attacking the organic food industry in April 2014, the group went to great lengths to tout its independence. The 30-page report by Academics Review, described as "a non-profit led by independent academic experts in agriculture and food sciences," found that consumers were being duped into spending more money for organic food because of deceptive marketing practices by the organic industry. Advertisement Trade press headlines blared: "Organics exposed!" (Brownfield News) and "Organic Industry Booming by Deceiving Consumers" (Food Safety Tech News), touting the findings by supposedly independent experts. The findings were "endorsed by an international panel of independent agricultural science, food science, economic and legal experts from respected international institutions," according to the group's press release. In case the point about independence wasn't clear, the press release ends on this note: "Academics Review has no conflicts-of-interest associated with this publication, and all associated costs for which were paid for using our general funds without any specific donor' influence or direction." What was not mentioned in the report, the news release or on the website: Executives for Monsanto Co., the world's leading purveyor of agrichemicals and genetically engineered seeds, along with key Monsanto allies, engaged in fund raising for Academics Review, collaborated on strategy and even discussed plans to hide industry funding, according to emails obtained by U.S. Right to Know via state Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Advertisement Monsanto's motives in attacking the organic industry are obvious: Monsanto's seeds and chemicals are banned from use in organic farming, and a large part of Monsanto's messaging is that its products are superior to organics as tools to boost global food production. Academics Carry Monsanto's Message Academics Review was co-founded by "two independent professors ... on opposite ends of the planet," Bruce Chassy, Ph.D., professor emeritus at University of Illinois, and David Tribe, Ph.D., senior lecturer at University of Melbourne. They claim the group "only accepts unrestricted donations from non-corporate sources." Yet two email exchanges in 2010 reveal plans to find corporate funding for Academics Review while keeping corporate fingerprints hidden. In a March 11, 2010 email exchange with Chassy, Jay Byrne, former head of communications at Monsanto who now runs a PR and market research firm, offered to act as a "commercial vehicle" to help find corporate funding for Academics Review. Chassy discussed his interest in attacking the organic industry in the emails. "I would love to have a prime name in the middle of the organic aura from which to launch ballistic missiles..." he wrote, "I sure don't have the money." Advertisement Byrne replied, "Well, I suggest we work on the money (for all of us) first and quickly! I've proposed to Val [Giddings, former vice president of BIO, the biotech industry trade association] that he and I meet while I'm in DC next week so we can (not via e-mail) get a clear picture of options for taking the Academic Review project and other opportunities forward. The "Center for Consumer Freedom" (ActivistCash.com) has cashed in on this to the extreme." The Center for Consumer Freedom is directed by Rick Berman, a lobbyist who has been called "Dr. Evil" and the "king of corporate front groups and propaganda" for his work to promote the tobacco industry and other corporate interests under the cover of neutral-sounding groups. "I think we have a much better concept," Byrne told Chassy. Byrne shared an "opportunities" list of targets comprised of people, groups and content critical of GMOs and Monsanto: Vandana Shiva, Andrew Kimbrell, Ronnie Cummins, Sierra Club, Greenpeace, Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, Michael Pollan's book "In Defense of Food," the movies "Food, Inc" and "The World According to Monsanto," and "topic cross-over on all the risk areas of ag-biotech (out crossing/ contamination, bees, butterflies, human safety, etc...)." "All of these individuals, organizations, content items and topic areas mean money for a range of well heeled corporations, Byrne wrote, adding: "I believe Val and I can identify and serve as the appropriate (non-academic) commercial vehicles by which we can connect these entities with the project in a manner which helps to ensure the credibility and independence (and thus value) of the primary contributors/owners... I believe our kitchen cabinet here can serve as gatekeepers (in some cases toll takers) for effective, credible responses, inoculation and proactive activities using this project platform..." "Sounds good to me," Chassy replied. "I'm sure that you will let me know what you discuss." In an email exchange with Chassy dated November 30, 2010, Eric Sachs, a senior public relations operative for Monsanto, discussed finding corporate support for Academics Review while "keeping Monsanto in the background." Sachs wrote to Chassy: "You and I need to talk more about the "academics review" site and concept. I believe that there is a path to a process that would better respond to scientific concerns and allegations. I shared with Val yesterday. From my perspective the problem is one of expert engagement and that could be solved by paying experts to provide responses. You and I have discussed this in the past. Val explained that step one is establishing 501(c)3 not-for-profit status to facilitate fund raising. That makes sense but there is more. I discussed with Jerry Steiner today (Monsanto Executive Team) and can help motivate CLI/BIO/CBI and other organizations to support. The key will be keeping Monsanto in the background so as not to harm the credibility of the information." CLI/BIO/CBI refers to three industry trade groups -- Crop Life International, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization and the Council for Biotechnology Information -- that represent agrichemical corporations. Chassy responded to Sachs, "Yes we should talk about Academics Review. I think we are on the same page." When asked directly about funding, Chassy replied via email: "Academics Review does not solicit or accept funds from any source for specific research or any other activities associated with any products, services or industry. Academics Review only accepts unrestricted donations from non-corporate sources to support our work." Advertisement He said that Academics Review incorporated and reported no income in 2012 and he provided the IRS form 990s for 2013 and 2014 (now also posted on the website). Those documents report $419,830 in revenues but include no information about contributors. Chassy did not respond to requests to provide that information. Press Covers "Independent" Attack on Organic Academics Review released its organic marketing study in April 2014 to a robust round of trade press coverage describing the findings of "independent researchers": "The Organic Food Industry Has Been Engaged in 'Multi-Decade Public Disinformation Campaign' claims report" (Food Navigator) "Report: Organic Industry Achieved 25 Years of Fast Growth Through Fear and Deception" (Food Safety News) "A Scathing Indictment of Organic Food Marketing" (Hoard's Dairyman) "Using Fear as a Sales Tactic" (Food Business News) In the New York Post, Naomi Schaffer Riley built a case against "tyranny of the organic mommy mafia" who are duped by disingenuous marketing tactics of the organic industry. Her sources included the Academics Review report and Julie Gunlock, author of a book about the "culture of alarmism." Advertisement Riley didn't mention that Gunlock, and also Riley herself, are both senior fellows at the Independent Women's Forum, a group heavily funded by Donors Trust, which has bankrolled corporate attacks on unions, public schools and climate scientists. In the Des Moines Register, John R. Block, a former U.S. secretary of agriculture who now works for a law firm that lobbies for agribusiness interests, reported on the "blockbuster report" by Academics Review and its findings that the organic industry's secret to success is "black marketing." The corporate front group American Council on Science and Health, which receives funding from the agrichemical industry and where Chassy serves as a scientific advisor, pushed the "black marketing" theme in articles by ACSH president Hank Campbell and Henry I. Miller, MD, a Hoover Institute fellow who served as the spokesmodel in commercials for the effort to kill GMO labeling in California, for which Monsanto was the lead funder. Miller, who has a long history of making inaccurate scientific claims in support of corporate interests, also used the Academics Review report as a source for organic attacks in Newsweek and the National Review, and claimed in the Wall Street Journal that organic farming is not sustainable. Similar anti-organic themes run through other agrichemical industry PR channels. Advertisement Money Flow Goes Public; Academics Review Goes Silent In March 2016, Monica Eng reported for WBEZ on documents showing that Monsanto paid Professor Bruce Chassy more than $57,000 over a 23-month period to travel, write and speak about GMOs -- money that was not disclosed to the public. According to Eng's investigation, the money was part of at least $5.1 million in undisclosed money Monsanto sent through the University of Illinois Foundation to university employees and programs between 2005 and 2015. "Chassy did not disclose his financial relationship with Monsanto on state or university forms aimed at detecting potential conflicts of interest," Eng reported. "Documents further show that Chassy and the university directed Monsanto to deposit the payments through the University of Illinois Foundation, a body whose records are shielded from public scrutiny. The foundation also has the ability to take in private money and disburse it to an individual as a 'university payment' -- exempt from disclosure." Advertisement In January 2016, Carey Gillam, research director of U.S. Right to Know, reported on emails showing that hundreds of thousands of dollars had flowed from Monsanto to the University of Illinois "as Chassy collaborated on multiple projects with Monsanto to counter public concerns about genetically modified crops (GMOs) - all while representing himself as an independent academic for a public institution." "What you find when reading through the email chains is an arrangement that allowed industry players to cloak pro-GMO messaging within a veil of independent expertise, and little, if any, public disclosure of the behind-the-scenes connections," Gillam wrote. The last post on the Academics Review site, dated Sept. 2, 2015, is a blog by Chassy explaining that some of his emails would be made public due to the FOIA requests of U.S. Right to Know, which he characterized as an assault on his 40 years of public science, research and teaching. Financial support from the private sector for public sector research and outreach is "appropriate, commonplace and needed to further the public interest," Chassy wrote. "Such support should be, and in all my experiences has been, transparent and done under the strict ethical guidelines of the public institutions that are benefiting from private sector or individual financial contributions." Three days later, some of Chassy's emails were first made public in a front-page New York Times article by two-time Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Eric Lipton. Lipton reported that Monsanto gave Chassy a grant for an undisclosed sum in 2011 for "biotechnology outreach and education activities." Advertisement Chassy told Lipton that the money he received from Monsanto "helped to elevate his voice through travel, a website he created and other means." Still Getting Press as an Independent Source Despite the revelations in the emails and the disclosure of Chassy's financial ties to Monsanto, the Academics Review website and its report attacking the organic industry are still posted online with all the descriptions claiming independence. And Chassy still enjoys press coverage as an "independent" expert on GMOs. In May 2016, two separate Associated Press stories quoted Chassy on that topic. Neither story mentioned Chassy's now-public financial ties to Monsanto. Your heart nearly leapt out of your chest when you got the news. You've been accepted into an elite doctorate program, or you're being offered a prestigious job at an amazing organization. They're publishing your book. They're promoting you to the C-suite. They're calling you an expert. You've been nominated for an award. But you aren't happy. Instead, you're terrified that your secret will finally be found out: you don't belong here. You aren't smart enough, or talented enough. You're just pretending. In 1978, clinical psychologists Dr. Pauline R. Clance and Suzanne A. Imes coined the term "Imposter Syndrome" to describe something they found in numerous high achieving women -- the fear or belief that you don't deserve your success. Amazing and accomplished people like Maya Angelou and Sonia Sotomayor have admitted to struggling with Impostor Syndrome, proving that even the most capable and intelligent people can be affected. Advertisement Because of societal discrimination, as well as counter-measures like Affirmative Action, Imposter Syndrome may be more common in women and other non-dominant groups, but more and more people from every demographic are reporting these feelings. In fact, Imposter Syndrome is something that I personally suffer from. The Symptoms Imposter Syndrome is characterized primarily by the belief that you haven't earned your success. People suffering from the syndrome attribute their achievements to luck, charm, or the generosity or naivety of others. Sufferers can also experience terrible anxiety about being "found out" and can work themselves to exhaustion trying to avoid discovery. Because of their negative self-image, many people with Imposter Syndrome avoid any behavior that could be interpreted as arrogance, such as speaking highly about their own performance, seeking out more challenging projects, or requesting a raise or promotion. Women with Imposter Syndrome are particularly likely to feel uncomfortable getting the recognition they deserve. Photo by Bolf Content on Flickr Imposter Syndrome in Men As a child, I was incredibly STEM-focused, eventually going on to earn both Bachelor's and Master's degrees (B.S. in cellular and molecular biology, M.S. in biochemistry); however, I dropped out of my PhD program in order to pursue a more lucrative career path -- namely, Internet marketing. Although I don't regret my decision, I have been sometimes haunted by a kind of shame that I didn't do something important for humanity like cure cancer. The thought goes something like this: "I was gifted with such a beautiful brain, and I have squandered it by chasing the money instead of living up to my full potential." Whatever success I achieve in the field of marketing feels very hollow compared to what I could have accomplished if I'd stayed in the sciences. Advertisement I discussed all this on a recent episode of my podcast The Optimized Geek with wellness expert Elissa Fisher Harris. She responded that she's seen this variation on Imposter Syndrome in some of her male clients. "Some men will say to me, 'I don't have Impostor Syndrome. I don't feel like an impostor,'" says Fisher Harris, "but what they end up following that with is, 'But, you know, I didn't cure cancer, so who am I? What is my success?' No matter what it is they might have done, they still don't feel good enough." Fisher Harris calls this "Comparative Success Syndrome," and she describes it as being more about whether a sufferer is "winning" than about whether they're competent. Celebrating Your Success How can someone with Imposter Syndrome or Comparative Success Syndrome begin to change their self-perception? Fisher Harris says the first step is as simple as acknowledging that you have the syndrome. "When you admit your behavior, it actually allows you to let go of the power that that fear has over you," she explains. Once you've accurately classified your experience, you can begin to practice new habits. Try writing down a small personal success every day for three weeks. Do not equivocate or explain away these successes in your writing. If you signed a new client, don't write, "but I should have been able to sign two"! Just focus on the positive: "Today, I signed a new client," or even "I signed a new client because of my hard work and talent." This simple exercise will strengthen the neural connections associated with confidence. You can also try a simple daily meditation to bring your mind into a more positive space. Even taking four slow breaths each morning can help you start your work day in a healthier mindset. Imposter Syndrome can prevent us from seeking out advancement opportunities and can cripple us with anxiety or shame, but it can also motivate us to work our hardest. It's not necessary to completely banish your self-doubt. Instead, we must learn to use our insecurities as catalysts for self-improvement. Work hard and strive to get ahead, but be sure to take the time to congratulate yourself heartily when you do succeed. Advertisement About 43 million Americans will travel for the Fourth of July holiday. This is a new record, according to AAA's annual July 4th annual holiday survey, and an increase of 1.3 percent over last year. Most people, approximately 84 percent or 36 million, will be taking a road trip, a true American pastime for the most patriotic holiday of the year. The lowest gas prices since 2005 have a lot to do with their choice. The legendary 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, commonly known as Route 66, is the ultimate drive, but Alaska's Seward Highway is unique in its own way. Booking a last-minute vacation has a lot to do with luck. Hotels often offer discounts and special packages to lure people. Some of them are in year-round hot spot destinations such as Las Vegas and Lake Powell in Utah, but others are in lesser-known towns that are just as fun and patriotic. Explore Monument Valley, Asheville and Albuquerque if, in addition to fireworks and parades, you're looking for hiking in the desert, going on a hot air balloon ride, or camping under the stars. The top five most popular Fourth of July destinations are Chicago, Las Vegas, Washington, Orlando and San Diego, according to WalletHub. The average household is expected to spend $370.75 in celebration. By Derek Seidman Fifty years ago today, on June 30, 1966, dozens of people assembled in the basement auditorium of the Community Church in mid-town Manhattan for a big announcement. Journalists and photographers were there, and so were key leaders of New York's antiwar left, such as A.J. Muste and Dave Dellinger. Stokely Carmichael, the chairperson of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) who had recently begun to popularize the phrase "Black Power," also showed up. All of them gathered to hear the words of three soldiers, Privates David Samas and Dennis Mora, and Private First Class James A. Johnson. The trio had been stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and they had just been informed they were going to Vietnam. They were given a 30-day leave before they had to embark. The G.I.'s convened the press conference to perform a bold act: they intended to refuse their orders to go fight. By June 1966, the U.S. had already been entangled in Vietnam for close to two decades, but its military aggression had taken a turn towards major escalation when President Lyndon Johnson began to send hundreds of thousands of ground troops beginning in 1965. This was accompanied by the onset of a three-year bombing campaign in the north. Antiwar protest grew almost right away, with two mass demonstrations in 1965. By mid-1966, it was clear to many that the war wasn't going away, and antiwar organizers, mostly long-time pacifists, students, and old radicals, began to deepen their commitments and try to broaden their coalition to include new constituencies. Advertisement One of these constituencies was soldiers. Antiwar organizers in New York had consciously sought out refusers and veterans to speak at their events. The most famous antiwar veteran up to that point was probably Donald Duncan, who served as a Green Beret in Vietnam. But civilian organizers saw military personnel mostly as moral symbols whose presence in the movement could help disarm hawkish, pro-war opponents who red-baited protesters and criticized them as being against the troops. The notion that the antiwar movement might actually organize soldiers, or that they could help soldiers organize themselves, was yet a faint idea. It would take the actions of the troops themselves, of G.I.'s like Samas, Mora, and Johnson, to crack open the possibility for a G.I. movement. The three G.I.'s had prepared a statement to read to the assembled crowd in the church auditorium. "We have decided to take a stand against this war, which we consider immoral, illegal, and unjust," they declared. They planned to report to the Oakland Army Terminal, "but under no circumstances" would they embark for Vietnam, even if their refusal resulted in courts-martial. They spoke not only for themselves. "We have been in the army long enough to know that we are not the only G.I.'s who feel as we do. Large numbers of men in the service do not understand this war or are against it." They explained how the soldiers around them became resigned to going to Vietnam. "No one wanted to go," they said, "and more than that, there was no reason for anyone to go." They criticized U.S. support for the government and military of South Vietnam, and they questioned the entire purpose of the war itself. In the army, they said, "No one used the word 'winning' anymore because in Vietnam it has no meaning. Our officers just talk about five or ten more years of war with at least half-million of our boys thrown into the grinder." The three young men agreed on one thing: "The war in Vietnam must be stopped." The time for talk was over. They ended their statement: "We want no part of a war of extermination. We oppose the criminal waste of American lives and resources. We refuse to go to Vietnam!" The three G.I.'s first met at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where they were stationed before they were reassigned to the 142nd Signal Battalion of the 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood. They bonded over their shared critique of the war. They all had opposed the war before entering the army, but now, with shipment to Vietnam looming, the stakes were much higher. Advertisement All three came from working-class backgrounds, and they all had some college education. Mora was Puerto Rican, Samas was Lithuanian and Italian, and Johnson was African American. "We represent in our backgrounds a cross section of the Army and America," they said. Mora was from Spanish Harlem and was a member of the Du Bois Club, a youth group connected to the Communist Party. He had participated in protests against U.S. foreign policy in Vietnam, Guatemala, and Puerto Rico. A classmate described him as "a socialist who's interested in the Marxist way of thinking." Mora's links to the New York left proved helpful when the three troops decided to act on their consciences. After being ordered to Vietnam, the soldiers decided together that they would refuse. During their leave they hashed out a strategy and reached out to a lawyer. With Mora's connections to the antiwar left, they sought out civilian allies. They contacted leaders of the Du Bois Club and the Fifth Avenue Vietnam Peace Parade Committee. Antiwar leaders Dave Dellinger and Fred Halstead met with the G.I.'s, and together with famed pacifist A.J. Muste, they all agreed to use the Parade Committee, perhaps the most important antiwar coalition at the time, to mobilize support for the three. They also agreed to use their refusal as a call to organize more G.I.'s against the war. This was the beginning of a civilian-soldier alliance that would help sustain the wave of G.I. protest to come. The organizers in New York worked to mobilize broad, national support for the soldiers. They formed the Fort Hood Three Defense Committee and sent out fact sheets to their contacts across the nation. They lined up support for the G.I.'s on the west coast, and they reached out to luminaries like Carmichael. All this represented an important turning point in the antiwar movement. Dellinger wrote that the peace movement had been "slow" in the past to "carry its message to the soldiers." David Samas echoed this point. "It often seems that the peace groups are united against the soldier," he wrote. "The G.I. should be reached somehow. He doesn't want to fight. He has no reasons to risk his life. Yet he doesn't realize that the peace movement is dedicated to his safety." The three G.I.'s and their antiwar allies were heeding Samas' words and showing the potential for a new path: soldiers and civilians, in alliance, working together to take the peace movement into the army's ranks. It was opposition to the war that drove the three soldiers to act, but their critique of racism and support for the Civil Rights Movement were also major motivations. They were some of the earliest antiwar protesters to really connect opposition to the war abroad to the fight for racial equality at home. "We know that Negroes and Puerto Ricans are being drafted and end up in the worst of the fighting all out of proportion to their numbers in the population," they said at their press conference, "and we have firsthand knowledge that these are the ones who have been deprived of decent education and jobs at home." In a speech he was scheduled to give, Johnson discussed the "direct relationship between the peace movement and the civil rights movement," and he drew a connection between the Vietnamese and African-American struggles. "The South Vietnamese are fighting for representation, like we ourselves," he wrote. "[T]he Negro in Vietnam is just helping to defeat what his Black brother is fighting for in the United States." Advertisement Johnson also highlighted the contradiction for Black soldiers who were asked to fight abroad while being denied equal rights at home. "When the Negro soldier returns, he still will not be able to ride in Mississippi or walk down a certain street in Alabama," he wrote. "His children will still receive an inferior education and he will still live in a ghetto. Although he bears the brunt of the war he will receive no benefits." Nor was it just these three G.I.'s who were connecting the dots between racism and the war. Their act of protest occurred within months of Muhammad Ali's draft refusal and the rise of the Black Panthers, who connected colonialism abroad to racial oppression at home. Martin Luther King Jr. would soon speak out against the war. "We were taking the Black young men who had been crippled by our society," King would later declare, "and sending them eight thousand miles away to guarantee liberties in Southeast Asia which they had not found in southwest Georgia and East Harlem." After that June 30th day when the G.I.'s publicly declared their refusal to go to Vietnam, they were transformed into a cause celebre. But it wasn't just sympathizers in the peace movement who were paying attention to them. The police went to Samas' home and urged him to retract his statement, and they spoke to his parents to try to pressure him to back down on his refusal. Samas stood firm in his decision. "They have attempted to intimidate the three of us in one way or another," wrote Samas. "But we have not been in the least shaken from our paths." On July 7, 1966, the three G.I.'s were once again scheduled to speak to supporters at the Community Church. Nearly 800 people turned out to the event. On their way there, however, Samas, Mora, and Johnson were stopped by the police and swooped away to Fort Dix, New Jersey. Unable to give their speeches, members of their families stepped in. James Johnson's brother read his talk, and Dennis Mora's young wife read her husband's statement. Meanwhile, the army fretted over how to handle the detained G.I.'s. Fort Dix Commanding General J.M. Hightower told the army's chief of staff that he had "sufficient evidence" to charge the three with "uttering disloyal statements with intent to cause disaffection and disloyalty among the civilian population and members of the military forces." He decided, however, to issue movement orders to the soldiers to leave for Saigon on July 13. This would be their last chance at avoiding punishment. "Should orders be disobeyed," Hightower wrote, "appropriate action will be taken." Advertisement The orders to ship out actually came down on July 14, 1966. The young men were told they must go to Vietnam. They refused. In doing so, they became one of the very first examples of active-duty G.I. refusal during the Vietnam War, and certainly the most visible to date. They also became something more than just three soldiers. To the antiwar movement, they were now the "Fort Hood Three." The Fort Hood Three were court-martialed in September of 1966. In defense of their refusal, the soldiers argued that the war in Vietnam was illegal. The military refused this argument, and all three were convicted for insubordination. Samas and Johnson each received five years in prison at Fort Leavenworth. Mora received three years. All appeals would fail, including one to the Supreme Court, though the army would later reduce Samas' and Johnson's sentence to three years. The Fort Hood Three Defense Committee continued to mobilize support for the G.I.'s after their conviction. They raised funds, spread awareness of the case, paid for newspaper ads, and circulated petitions. Sponsors of the defense committee included Tom Hayden, Stokely Carmichael, Harvey Swados, Noam Chomsky, Floyd McKissick, and others. Some in the labor movement also rallied behind the soldiers. James Johnson's father was a steward with the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Workers Unions (RWDSU). District 65 of the AFL-CIO had a Peace Action Committee that mailed a leaflet to members with the headline: "Jimmy's Son Needs Your Help." The flyer explained that "Jimmy Johnson is a 65er" who "takes his job and his union seriously," and asked for readers to contribute to the G.I.'s defense fund and write to them with letters of support. Al Evanhoff, Assistant Vice President of District 65 of the RWDSU, put out a supportive statement. "As a trade unionist," he wrote, "long ago I learned the fact that an injury to one is an injury to all." Evanhoff criticized the war and pledged to form a defense committee for the Fort Hood Three. Advertisement This support from sections of the labor movement is worth noting, because it flies in the face of the conventional narrative that pits workers against the antiwar movement. While some union leaders and members were certainly pro-war, others opposed it. Major unions like the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), and powerful labor leaders like Walter Reuther criticized the war. Many locals and rank-and-file members were antiwar, and working-class people overall were more likely than the college-educated affluent to be against it. G.I. and veteran dissent would soon become one example of working-class antiwar protest to make a mark on history. The support for the soldiers was translated into song by Pete Seeger, the famous Old Left troubadour. In his lyrics, Seeger paraphrased David Samas: We've been told in training that in Vietnam we must fight;And we may have to kill women and children, and that is quite all right;We say this war's illegal, immoral, and unjust;We're taking legal action, just the three of us. We'll report for duty but we won't go overseas.We're prepared to face court martial, but we won't fight for Ky.We three have talked it over, our decision now is clear,We will not go to Vietnam, we'll fight for freedom here. Advertisement When the three soldiers were finally released after serving their time, the Hunter College Du Bois Club hosted a celebratory homecoming for them. It was called "Salute the Ft. Hood Three," and Pete Seeger, Ossie Davis, Dave Dellinger, and others attended. The G.I.'s came out of prison, still, as supporters of the antiwar movement. They also came out of prison to see a rising G.I. movement flourishing all around them. Hundreds of active-duty service members had joined the antiwar movement by the late 1960s. Some, like the Fort Hood Three, refused to go to Vietnam. Underground G.I. newspapers circulated throughout the military, and off-base coffeehouses were springing up around the nation. Antiwar soldiers marched, protested, petitioned, and formed their own groups to try to organize their fellow troops. Civilian support networks and legal defense organizations were aiding this rising tide of soldier dissent. And the G.I. movement had not yet reached its peak. Little of this was true when David Samas, Dennis Mora, and James Johnson refused to ship to Vietnam on June 30, 1966. But a few years later, it was a reality. The Fort Hood Three set an example that others followed, and David Samas, Dennis Mora, and James Johnson emerged from their time in prison to see firsthand the G.I. movement that they helped to create. Derek Seidman is an assistant professor of history at D'Youville College in Buffalo, New York. He is currently writing a book on the history of soldier protest during the Vietnam War. To reach him, or to see a version of this article with citations, contact him at seidmand@dyc.edu. 2016 The Zinn Education Project: Teaching People's History. Learn more about the Zinn Education Project and how you can help bring people's history to the classroom. By Annie Lowrey A few weeks ago, I went to pick up my birth-control prescription from my local pharmacy and was told my doctor needed renew it. I called my doctor's office, and they told me I needed to come in. I came in, and they insisted that I have a pelvic exam and a pap smear, tests that I had had last year and, according to the latest medical guidelines, did not need. I explained I was there for a time-sensitive prescription consultation and not for a well-woman exam. And they held my medication hostage: No pap, no pill. I'm hardly the first to experience this kind of patient-doctor standoff or doctor-patient bullying. One recent study found that a third of OB/GYNs and family medicine practitioners always require a pelvic exam when prescribing the pill, with 44 percent "usually" requiring it -- though there is no medical reason to do so, and many women find themselves compelled year after year to submit to uncomfortable, unnecessary examinations and tests. It is an infuriating state of affairs, and one that a number of medical entrepreneurs have picked up on. Now some telemedicine start-ups are trying to make it as easy, painless, and quick as possible for women to get hormonal contraception. In the go-to Silicon Valley formulation: Think of it as Uber, but for the pill. Advertisement Here's the thing. In general, there is no clinical reason to tie pap smears and pelvic exams to referrals for hormonal contraception. This is not to say that pap smears aren't important; they are. It is also not to deny the convenience of getting necessary screenings when going in for a prescription. But pap smears and pelvic exams address different issues than do consultations for the pill -- and still many doctors marry them, forcing excessive well-woman checks on patients coming in for the pill. Healthy women over 30 need pap smears only every three to five years, after all. And just this week, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force questioned whether asymptomatic adult women need annual pelvic exams at all. (That's right: at all.) Many doctors now argue against linking cancer screening and contraception. "The requirement for a pelvic examination for oral contraceptives imposes unnecessary delays to contraceptive delivery and pregnancy risks," concludes one often-cited study. "Despite the value of clinical preventive screening when it conforms to evidence-based guidelines, women seeking oral contraceptives do not need cancer or [sexually transmitted infection] screening to safely use the medication." And so, rather than heading to another office or clinic after I fired my OB/GYN -- shout out, Mitt Romney -- I tried out two of the new services that promise to let you get birth control with nothing more than a few taps and swipes and clicks. Nurx just launched out of Y Combinator's start-up accelerator this winter. It lets you submit your information and prescription request to a doctor. If approved, the business fills it and mails it to you in a matter of days -- hours if you are in San Francisco and want to pay for Postmates' courier service. (It also offers the anti-HIV medication PrEP and contraceptive products like the NuvaRing.) I logged on and spent a few minutes giving it my details. I had a prescription in just a few hours. Advertisement "We refer to it as 'hostage care,'" Hans Gangeskar, one of the company's founders, tells me. "Medically, it makes absolutely no sense. You're saying, 'You have to get pregnant because you didn't have your cervical-cancer screening!' Personally, I take these logical analogies maybe way too far. A woman with cancer isn't better off having cancer and being pregnant." The second app I tried, Lemonaid, was even quicker, promising a two-hour prescription turnaround. I answered a few prompts and sent in a laptop-camera photograph of myself. The service -- which also offers consultations and medication for common conditions like acne, urinary-tract infections, and acid reflux -- granted me a prescription in three minutes. Three minutes! I could have picked it up at the pharmacy around the corner from me in less time than it took for me to walk to my doctor's office. But besides speed, the founders also say their apps are insurance-friendly and medically sound. "These are conditions where people oftentimes have an idea of what's wrong with them," Brendan Levy, a doctor who works at Lemonaid, tells me. "These are conditions the medical science shows we can diagnose reliably. With birth control, for instance, we can reliably name the reasons you shouldn't be on it, and identify them." They are also cheap. In the case of Nurx, I paid nothing, not even shipping, for my prescription. In the case of Lemonaid, I paid $15 for the "visit." That is to say nothing of the value of my time, or my stress. In true Silicon Valley fashion, both apps offer sleek, minimalist user interfaces and clear instructions. They let you ask a doctor any questions you might have. But they are built to get you in, get you out, and make you happy. "We want to make it a stressless experience," Gangeskar says. "My co-founder, Eddie" -- A. Edvard Engesth, who is a doctor -- "always says that he'll get calls late on Friday nights from friends who need their prescriptions refilled. But who wants to call their friend the doctor on a Friday night to discuss an intimate health-care issue?" Advertisement There are other options than Nurx and Lemonaid, too. There's ProjktRuby. There's Maven. There's also ThePillClub and ScriptDash (though you need a preexisting prescription to use those services). And Planned Parenthood is now offering virtual consultations for the pill, too. The Uber-for-X analogy is horribly overused by the tech-bubble media, I admit. But it does seem unusually apt in this case. These start-ups and services are taking on established, cartelized, and heavily regulated incumbents -- much like Uber. They are taking on incumbents with no ability or incentive to compete on price and a long history of terrible customer service -- much like Uber. And rather than offering add-on capabilities to those incumbents, they are often letting consumers vault over them entirely -- much like Uber. There are limitations to them. Neither Nurx nor Lemonaid can do much more than it is designed to do. If you have a weird infection, a strange bump, or one of any number of other medical issues, you need to seek an in-person provider. And they are geographically limited, too. Nurx is only available in California and New York at the moment, though it is planning to expand. And Lemonaid is available in California, Florida, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington, and is also expanding soon. The really good news is that these services are only one of many promising developments for women who want quick and easy access to hormonal contraception. California, Washington, and Oregon now allow pharmacists to prescribe birth-control pills, a policy a number of other states are considering. And there's a growing cry for the federal government to allow the pill to be sold over the counter, without a prescription, as it is -- and safely -- in countries from Korea to Mexico. As handy as these new start-ups are, it might be even better if doctors and regulators quit standing between women and the pill entirely. The Influence of Influence in Washington Cross-posted with TomDispatch.com Although its difficult to remember those days eight years ago when Democrats seemed to represent something idealistic and hopeful and brave, lets take a moment and try to recall the stand Barack Obama once took against lobbyists. Those were the days when the nation was learning that George W. Bushs Washington was, essentially, just a big playground for those lobbyists and that every government operation had been opened to the power of money. Righteous disgust filled the air. Special interests were much denounced. And a certain inspiring senator from Illinois promised that, should he be elected president, his administration would contain no lobbyists at all. The revolving door between government and K Street, he assured us, would turn no more. Instead, the nation got a lesson in all the other ways that special interests can get what they want -- like simple class solidarity between the Ivy Leaguers who advise the president and the Ivy Leaguers who sell derivative securities to unsuspecting foreigners. As that inspiring young president filled his administration with Wall Street personnel, we learned that the revolving door still works, even if the people passing through it arent registered lobbyists. Advertisement But whatever became of lobbying itself, which once seemed to exemplify everything wrong with Washington, D.C.? Perhaps it wont surprise you to learn that lobbying remains one of the nations persistently prosperous industries, and that, since 2011, it has been the focus of Influence, one of the daily email newsletters published by Politico, that great chronicler of the Obama years. Influence was to be, as its very first edition declared, the must-read crib sheet for Washingtons influence class, with news of developments on K Street done up in tones of sycophantic smugness. For my money, it is one of the quintessential journalistic artifacts of our time: the constantly unfolding tale of power-for-hire, told always with a discreet sympathy for the man on top. Capitalizing on Influence It is true that Americans are more cynical about Washington than ever. To gripe that the system is rigged is to utter the catchphrase of the year. But to read Influence every afternoon is to understand how little difference such attitudes make here in the nations capital. With each installment, the reader encounters a cast of contented and well-groomed knowledge workers, the sort of people for whom there are never enough suburban mansions or craft cocktails. One imagines them living together in a happy community of favors-for-hire where everyone knows everyone else, the restaurant greeters smile, the senators lie down with the contractors, and the sun shines brilliantly every day. This communitys labors in the influence trade have made the economy of the Washington metro area the envy of the world. The newsletter describes every squeaking turn of the revolving door with a certain admiration. Influence is where you can read about all the smart former assistants to prominent members of Congress and the new K Street jobs theyve landed. There are short but meaningful hiring notices -- like the recent one announcing that the blue-ribbon lobby firm K&L Gates has snagged its fourth former congressional member. There are accounts of prizes that lobbyists give to one another and of rooftop parties for clients and ritual roll calls of Ivy League degrees to be acknowledged and respected. And wherever you look at Influence, it seems like people associated with this or that Podesta can be found registering new clients, holding fundraisers, and bundling cash for Hillary Clinton. Advertisement As with other entries in the Politico family of tip-sheets, Influence is itself sponsored from time to time -- for one exciting week this month, by the Federation of American Hospitals (FAH), which announced to the newsletters readers that, for the last 50 years, the FAH has had a seat at the table. Appropriately enough for a publication whose beat is venality, Influence also took care to report on the FAHs 50th anniversary party, thrown in an important room in the Capitol building, and carefully listed the many similarly important people who attended: the important lobbyists, the important members of Congress, and Nancy-Ann DeParle, the Obama administrations important former healthcare czar and one of this citys all-time revolving-door champions. Describing parties like this is a standard theme in Influence, since the influence trade is by nature a happy one, a flattering one, a business eager to serve you up a bracing Negroni and encourage you to gorge yourself on fancy hors doeuvres. And so the newsletter tells us about the citys many sponsored revelries -- who gives them, who attends them, the establishment where the transaction takes place, and whose legislative agenda is advanced by the resulting exchange of booze and bonhomie. The regular reader of Influence knows, for example, about the big reception scheduled to be hosted by Squire Patton Boggs, one of the most storied names in the influence-for-hire trade, at a certain office in Cleveland during the Republican Convention... about how current and former personnel of the Department of Homeland Security recently enjoyed a gathering thrown for them by a prestigious law firm... about a group called PAC Pals and the long list of staffers and lobbying types who attended their recent revelry... about how the Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz and the gang got together at a much-talked-about bar to sip artisanal cocktails. Theres a poignant note to the story of former Congressional representative Melissa Bean -- once the toast of New Democrats everywhere, now the Midwest chair of JPMorgan -- who recently returned to D.C. to get together with her old staff. They had also moved on to boldface jobs in lobbying, television, and elsewhere. And theres a note of the fabulous to the story of the Democratic member who has announced plans to throw a fundraiser at a Beyonce concert. (A pair of tickets go for $3,500 for PACs, Influence notes.) Bittersweet is the flavor of the recent story about the closing of Johnnys Half Shell, a Capitol Hill restaurant renowned for the countless fundraisers it has hosted over the years. On hearing the news of the restaurants imminent demise, Influence gave over its pixels to tales from Johnnys glory days. One reader fondly recounted a tale in which Occupy protesters supposedly interrupted a Johnnys fundraiser being enjoyed by Senator Lindsey Graham and a bunch of defense contractors. In classic D.C.-style, the story was meant to underscore the stouthearted stoicism of the men of power who reportedly did not flinch at the menacing antics of the lowly ones. Advertisement A Blissful Community of Money Influence is typically written in an abbreviated, matter-of-fact style, but its brief items speak volumes about the realities of American politics. There is, for example, little here about the high-profile battle over how transgender Americans are to be granted access to public restrooms. However, the adventures of dark money in our capital are breathlessly recounted, as the eternal drama of plutocracy plays itself out and mysterious moneymen try to pass their desires off as bona fide democratic demands. A group claiming to lobby on behalf of ordinary citizens against large insurance companies is in fact orchestrated by the hospital industry itself, begins a typical item. The regular reader also knows about the many hundreds of thousands of dollars spent by unknown parties to stop Puerto Rican debt relief and about the mysterious group that has blown vast sums to assail the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) but whose protesters, when questioned outside a CFPB hearing, reportedly admitted that they were day laborers paid to be there. You will have noticed, reader, the curiously bipartisan nature of the items mentioned here. But it really shouldnt surprise you. After all, for this part of Washington, the only real ideology around is based on money -- how much and how quickly you get paid. Money is divine in this industry, and perhaps that is why Influence is fascinated with libertarianism, a fringe free-market faith which (thanks to its popularity among Americas hard-working billionaires) is massively over-represented in Washington. Readers of Influence know about the Competitive Enterprise Institute and its Night in Casablanca party, about the R Street Institutes Alice in Wonderland party, about how former Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli came to sign up with FreedomWorks, and how certain libertarians have flown from their former perches in the vast, subsidized free-market coop to the fashionable new Niskanen Center. There are also plenty of small-bore lobbying embarrassments to report on, as when a currently serving congressional representative sent a mean note to a former senator who is now an official at the American Motorcyclist Association. Or that time two expert witnesses gave nearly identical written statements when testifying on Capitol Hill. Oops! Advertisement But what most impresses the regular reader of Influence is the brazenness of it all. To say that the people described here appear to feel no shame in the contracting-out of the democratic process is to miss the point. Their doings are a matter of pride, with all the important names gathering at some overpriced eatery to toast one another and get their picture taken and advance some initiative that will always, of course, turn out to be good for money and terrible for everyone else. This is not an industry, Influences upbeat and name-dropping style suggests. It is a community -- a community of corruption, perhaps, but a community nevertheless: happy, prosperous, and joyously oblivious to the plight of the country once known as the land of the middle class. Online shoppers in China are cashing in on falls in the British pound to buy expensive foreign luxury goods after the UK voted to leave the European Union. The pound plunged to a three-decade low after Britons voted on Thursday last week to leave the bloc, making the country's goods and services cheaper for overseas buyers. The pound has dropped by more than 10 percent against the renminbi since the referendum. Evonne Shen, a white-collar worker in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, bought a handbag for 3,000 yuan ($450) from a British online shopping site on Tuesday, saving more than 300 yuan compared with the price a week ago. While Shen, who is in her early 20s, may still have to pay tariffs when the package arrives in China, she decided to buy after the pound weakened. "The tariffs have been here for a long time, but how often do you get a chance like this," she said. After the pound fell, some Chinese online shoppers bought goods on UK e-commerce sites or asked dai gou overseas shopping agents to help them with purchases in brick-and-mortar stores and to ship the packages to China. According to ymatou.com, a cross-border e-commerce site in China, daily sales of European products have doubled since the UK referendum, mostly driven by sales of British products. The company, based in Shanghai, said on Wednesday: "Shopping malls in Europe are now holding their annual summer sales. Combined with the fall in the pound, it couldn't be a better time to buy British products." High-end products with prices ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 yuan are among the best-sellers on ymatou.com. About 70 percent of the online buyers bought luxury handbags, including a Hermes Kelly bag costing 98,000 yuan. According to the Baidu Index, which gauges changes in the popularity of search requests, the number of searches for "UK dai gou" rose by 175 percent between June 17 and June 21, peaking on Friday, when the referendum result was announced. Mo Daiqing, an analyst at the center, said: "The short-term fall in the pound is attracting more online shoppers to shift their attention from Japanese and Korean products to British ones." Our students are older; they have jobs and family responsibilities. Most don't have the luxury of going to school full-time. Often it takes them years to get a degree or a certificate. But they persevere, and when they succeed it means a better life for their families and often their communities because that's where they find jobs. Community colleges also prepare many students to go on to four-year schools with many credits already on their transcript. They may not receive an associate degree, but move into a bachelor's degree program with a considerable number of semester hours already in the bank. With that in mind, we must look at new ways to report graduation rates and community college success, and alternative methods to track students who may not get a community college degree before they transfer their credits to four-year institutions and will most likely take more than four years finish. We should also champion career training with high school students and their guidance counselors. Not everyone can afford the luxury of getting a B.A. in art history. There are great jobs that only require a certificate that can often be earned in less than a year. Our students want well-paying jobs and many of these jobs are in manufacturing. Many parents today don't want their children to work in a factory. But these are high-tech jobs that pay well and usually have great benefits including health care and 401ks. American manufacturing now requires advanced computer training, team skills and high levels of critical thinking. We need to reach out to local manufacturers to design academic programs that meet their workforce demands. There should be more apprenticeship programs where students can learn as they earn. Community colleges are the solution to many U.S. manufacturers' worries that they cannot find skilled people to hire. We also need to address remedial programs for returning adults and underprepared high school graduates. We want students to begin working toward a degree immediately and not get stuck in a remedial pathway. Many community colleges now have programs that combine remedial work with coursework for credit. Others are changing math pathways to match the mathematics skills to the field of study. College algebra and calculus for all will be a thing of the past. Mentorship programs are also extremely important, and all community colleges should find a way to provide a mentor not just to high school students entering college for the first time, but also for veterans and adult learners. Some do this already. Research has demonstrated that having a mentor can be the deciding factor between success and failure in an academic setting. We need robust partnerships with local high schools to convince students to start earning an associate degree while they are in their junior and senior years. Not only will dual credit save them money when they do enroll in college, it also prepares them for the rigor of college coursework. Finally, community colleges need to do a better job of promoting our achievements in the media, with local, state and federal legislators, and with employers. This should be an ongoing effort so that our successes are front and center when it comes to providing crucial government funding for academic programs, or when a new employer is hiring. That's one of the reasons I recently wrote The Community College Solution (available on Amazon as a Kindle e-book or in paperback), as I believe that community colleges are the pathway to the American dream. My book explores the various facets of the community college experience -- everything from how we are educating our veterans to our myriad success stories. This is a follow up to my original book: The Community College Career Track: How to Achieve the American Dream without a Mountain of Debt (Wiley, 2012) also available on Amazon. As a member of the board of College Promise, which was formed to explore the concept of free community college, I still plan to work on behalf of community colleges even in retirement. I believe passionately that in these economic times, students shouldn't be amassing insurmountable debt to get an education. Community colleges should be the first choice of anyone looking to get a post-secondary degree or credential, whether it is a recent high school graduate or a displaced worker. Community colleges are truly a low-cost, high-impact way to make our nation stronger. They need and deserve our support. If the goal is to cause both sides of the political spectrum to quiver and twitch and shiver and shake like a raccoon clinging to the outside of a cement mixer speeding through a railroad yard, just casually throw out the term, "gun control," and step back. The left considers all guns the reprehensible tool of warriors, criminals and primitives, while in most of red state America, the definition of gun control is using two hands and hitting the target. Then some addled- brained, flippo- unit actually uses those techniques to take out a bunch of innocent people, and the blowback starts with a debate about how big our guns should be, further restrictions on who can purchase them and whether we need to know the identity and shoe size of the purchasers. Yes. Indeed. You bet. We do. For crum's sakes, you need to present identification to apply for a card to take a book out of a library. Admittedly, in the right hands, a book can be more dangerous than a gun, but they hardly ever put holes in people's bodies that the blood leaks out of way too quick. Advertisement With increasing frequency, these body counts shoot north into double digits, which triggers a discussion of banning these high- powered, personal weapons of destruction. For a minute. Then the Republicans kowtow to the perverted wishes of their cruel masters, the NRA, which thinks the best way to avoid school shootings is to ban schools. This same NRA commanded their lapdogs to prevent research into gun- related deaths. That's right, Republicans have refused to allow the funding of government- related, gun- death research. Which is a shame, since America has a surplus of raw data. You could say we are dead solid center of the gun- related death universe. It's like talking about sandwiches in Philadelphia but prohibiting any mention of the cheesesteak. As Holland is to tulips, the USA is to gun deaths. In the wake of these horrific tragedies, conservatives then predictably go straight to the handbook of NRA generated talking points to say the same things over and over. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families." "None of this would have happened if the gay Hispanic dancers were armed." "Assault weapons can be used as legitimate hunting rifles." Really? That's your argument? Because, okay, it makes a sort of sense. You can also use a chainsaw to cut butter. Might get a little messy around muffin time. Come to think of it, a hand grenade will signal the end of recess. Doorbells can be rung with 12- pound sledgehammers. Once. Advertisement They're called "assault weapons" for a reason. They're not "tucking kiddies into bed" rifles. They're for assaults. Yes, the Second Amendment guarantees a well- regulated militia the right to bear arms, but at the time our Founding Fathers were talking about citizen- soldiers wielding one- shot muskets, not terrorist- wannabees brandishing HK MG4s capable of shooting 800 .45 caliber bullets in under a minute with a range of a half a mile. Hunting weapons? Seriously? What are you hunting? Tanks? A herd of triceratops? Can you imagine someone putting a full clip into a deer at 30 yards? You'd end up with venison jerky. In noun and verb forms. Jerky being the operative word here. I see trees of green, red roses too.I see them bloom, for me and you.And I think to myselfWhat a wonderful world.- Louis Armstrong, What a Wonderful World Race relations were tense in the United States when this song was first released. Skies may have been blue, clouds may have been white, but at the back of buses seats were still black. Riots were multiplying, curfews were in effect. In 1967, there was talk of civil war; it was not a wonderful place. Across the ocean the Beatles were singing of tangerine trees and marmalade skies. "Cellophane flowers of yellow and green," as London fought a cold war with itself. There were massacres in Bolivia, hydrogen bombs in China. A secession in Biafra, a deposed king in Greece. Chaos in North Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East. Advertisement No it was not a wonderful world; it still is not today. I do not see rainbows through the smog; I do not see many trees. I do not see people looking at people; I do not see smiles in the street. I see fewer friends, shake fewer hands; no one asks how do you do. I cannot see your lips mouth "I love you" when the sun is in my eyes. I see a little town in the mountains of Lebanon; the locals call it Qaa. A church, a town hall, a vegetable stand, a spring in the center of the square. Four suicide bombings before dawn, four more before the funeral that night. I see hatred spurred by misfortune and need. Injustice, all around. I see brave young soldiers imposing a curfew, civilians locked indoors by fear. I see silent, motionless victims; I see grieving families. I also see aggressors; victims in their own way. And on the ground, everywhere, I see shards of colored glass. Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.- Anton Chekhov This earth has always glistened; it has always stung our feet. But in 1816, a Scottish physicist looked down, and saw it differently. He poured twenty-four fragments of broken glass carefully into a tube. Two reflective surfaces, one on either end, an aperture with a lens. Advertisement He called his device kaleidoscope: See. Beautiful. Form. He pointed it at his feet, at the world, and it was wonderful. The premise of a kaleidoscope is simple. The object on view is real, unchanging; a fixture of the outside world. Inside, only broken glass moves. But somewhere down the hole where eye and whimsy meet, a magical scene unfolds. 1.4 x 1033 beautiful ways of seeing life, 1.4 x 1033 fleeting worlds. A symmetrical, infinitely multiplied view, a transfiguration of the commonplace. I used to know a little boy whose world was more wonderful than mine. It had rainbows in prisms, shapes in clouds, as many wishes as stars in the sky. Animal crackers with secret lives, rhymes in alphabet soup. In it puddles were oceans, sheets were tents, and pillows were fortress walls. Grandfathers' canes were musketeers' swords. Neverland could be found on a map. "You cannot depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus." We lived in the same world, but from his pirate ship bed, he saw it with kaleidoscope eyes. "The lover of life [...] is a kaleidoscope endowed with consciousness, which with every one of its movements presents a pattern of life, in all its multiplicity, and the flowing grace of all the elements that go to compose life. It is an ego athirst for the non-ego, and reflecting it at every moment in energies more vivid than life itself, always inconstant and fleeting."- Charles Baudelaire, The Painter of Modern Life A wonderful world is a relative one; it cannot exist without pain. Life is what it is; it does not change. It is we who do, and can. We can love, instead of hate. Find empathy in suffering. Of pieces of broken glass and lives, make canvases of color and symmetry. We can tune into new frequencies, blur a few lines. Dare to challenge our angles and look out with slightly kinder eyes. The glass is broken. So are we. But this world is a wonderful one if we choose it to be. By Michelle DeFreese African citizens currently face some of the most stringent visa restrictions in the world. According to the Africa Visa Openness Index Report launched by the African Development Bank (AfDB), citizens of African countries require visas to travel to 55% of countries within the continent. Within the next two years, however, the implementation of a proposed common visa policy under the African Union's (AU) 2063 Agenda, a strategic document outlining the vision for African development, could profoundly impact the continent in terms of intra-regional trade, economic development, and regional integration. While the AU's visa-free travel proposal represents both challenges and opportunities for the security and economy of Africa, previous examples by regional communities and individual countries suggest that the benefits will outweigh the risks. As the plan moves from policy to implementation, the African common visa policy has the potential to impart substantial economic incentives through the removal of trade barriers, increased tourism and investment opportunities, and job creation. The AU's 2063 Agenda contains plans for a common visa policy with three primary components: visa-on-arrival for all African nationals, mandatory granting of a minimum 30-day visa for African citizens visiting any African country by 2018, and the ambitious goal of a single, continental passport by 2020. Challenges of implementing the plan include associated risks of widespread economic migration, the movement of illegal goods, cross-border terrorism, and the issue of stateless individuals. Nevertheless, significant progress has been made - regionally and nationally - with benefits that demonstrate the effectiveness of the policy in terms of stimulating economic growth. Advertisement The importance of regional integration was also discussed during the 2013 AfDB Annual Meeting, during which Professor Mthuli Ncube, AfDB Vice President and Chief Economist, stated, "Africa is one of the regions in the world with the highest visa requirements. Visa restrictions imply missed economic opportunities for intra-regional trade and for the local service economy such as tourism, cross-country medical services or education." Thus far, regional communities within Africa have made variable progress towards the goal of a pan-African, visa-free policy with largely positive results and spillover effects: the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) introduced free movement between member states in 1979; a single visa is in place enabling nationals of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) free movement; a common visa policy unites Zambia and Zimbabwe; and the East African Community (EAC) now has a single tourist visa available for visitors to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda coupled with an East African passport that allows citizens freedom of movement within the trading bloc. Following the adoption of the EAC common visa policy, both Uganda and Rwanda benefited from increased tourism revenues by 12% and 8% respectively. According to the AfDB's Africa Tourism Monitoring Report, comparable visa liberalization schemes could increase tourism by 5-25%. Individual countries, including the Seychelles, Ghana, and Rwanda, have also made significant efforts to ease visa restrictions on travelers. The Seychelles is one of the few visa-free countries that does not require a visa for citizens of any country upon arrival. After adopting the policy, international tourism arrivals to the country increased by an average of 7% per year between 2009 and 2014. Ghana has adopted the 2063 Agenda's visa-free policy, which will be formally introduced in July 2016. Rwanda in particular has made significant strides to ease visa restrictions for African nationals, and provides an important example of the potential for the adoption of the visa-free policy in other countries. According to the AfDB, Rwanda's 2013 visa-free policy for African nationals resulted in several positive benefits in terms of economic development; these include an estimated 24% increase in tourism arrivals from African countries and a 50% increase in intra-African trade. Trade with the Democratic Republic of the Congo alone increased by 73% since the implementation of the policy. Advertisement Beyond the implications for the continent, African Union Commissioner for Social Affairs, Dr. Mustapha Sidiki Kaloko, has suggested that visa-free travel within Africa could potentially reduce emigration to other continents. At the same time, reduced visa restrictions will necessitate advances in electronic border management systems and improved interoperability of security architecture to address the increased risks of trafficking and cross-border crime. Examples of the successful implementation of visa-free policies by regional communities and individual countries - and the benefits that have followed - are compelling arguments for the implementation of the AU's common visa policy for the continent. For a continent that is home to some of the fastest growing economies in the world and a burgeoning middle class, the dissolution of barriers to trade, increased free movement, and bolstered tourism will foster an unprecedented growth of untapped markets critical for the realization of the continued rise of Africa. Mint via Getty Images NEW DELHI, INDIA - JULY 24: People stand in queue during Aadhar card camp, pilot project for authentication of UID cards at Mayur Vihar, Phase 2, on July 24, 2012 in New Delhi, India. (Photo by Ramesh Pathania/Mint via Getty Images) NEW DELHI -- Disregarding the Supreme Court order, which limited linking the Aadhaar card to six government schemes, the University Grants Commission has made it "mandatory" for students to provide biometric data before they can avail of "government subsidies, scholarships and fellowships." On June 29, 2016, UGC secretary Jaspal S. Sandhu sent a letter to Vice-Chancellors of all universities and institutes, which said that Aadhaar has been made "mandatory for disbursement of all government subsidies, scholarships and fellowships" for the financial year 2016-2017. Advertisement The letter, which HuffPost India has seen, requests all universities to "seek the details of the beneficiaries and put all information on universities/institutions' websites," and email a copy to the UGC, a statutory body of the Government of India. The HRD Ministry, vide its letter dated June 10, 2016, has instructed the commission that from financial year 2016-17 Aadhaar has been mandatory for disbursement of all government subsidies, scholarships and fellowships, which are to be disbursed directly into the beneficiaries account, Sandhu wrote. On October 15, 2015, the Supreme Court ruled that Aadhaar could only be linked to six government schemes (Public Distribution Scheme, L.P.G Distribution Scheme, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employement Guarantee Scheme, the National Social Assistance Programme, Prime Minister's Jan Dhan Yojana and Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) on a "voluntary" basis. The Aadhaar Bill, which allows the government to ask any citizen for Aadhaar to avail of government subsides or schemes, was recently passed by Parliament, but the The Aadhaar Act, 2016, is yet to come into force. And until that happens, the Supreme Court order reigns supreme, according to lawyers and activists. Furthermore, in view of the several petitions challenging the Aadhaar card scheme, and the Supreme Court still mulling over whether the Right to Privacy is a Fundamental Right in India, the Aadhaar Act is still not home free. Advertisement "This is a clear and unequivocal violation of the Supreme Court order," said Prasanna S., a Delhi-based lawyer, who is handling litigation challenging the Aadhaar scheme in the Supreme Court, referring to the UGC order. "This is contempt of court," he said. For the Act to come into force, the Centre will issue a notification which states that the Act and its regulations have come into force, and this could still take several months, according to Prasanna. In the meantime, the Centre cannot connect Aadhaar in either a "mandatory" or "voluntary" capacity to any scheme other than the six mentioned in the Supreme Court order. UGC's Sandhu has not responded to HuffPost India's request for comment. The Modi government orchestrated the passage of the Aadhaar Bill by treating it as a money bill, which allowed for it clearing the Lok Sabha, where the Bharaitya Janata Party forms the majority, while ignoring the amendments suggested by the Rajya Sabha. "Both this and the previous government, have brazenly violated the Supreme Court's orders, making a mockery of the Court and causing hardship to people in getting their legal entitlements--be it scholarships, rations or work," said Reetika Khera, an economist in the humanities and social sciences department at Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. The issue of Aadhaar cards, which links government schemes and services to biometric data and unique identity numbers, has been controversial. Both the Congress Party led-United Progressive Alliance government, and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government have argued that Aadhaar will allow subsidies to reach beneficiaries directly, and prevent middlemen from siphoning off subsidies worth thousands of crores of rupees. Advertisement On the other hand, there are many activists, academics and politicians who believe that such a bank of biometric data can be used by the government for "mass surveillance"" in the name of "national security." Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the Budget Session in March, Biju Janata Dal's Tathagata Satpathy said that he feared that the Modi government would use the data for "mass surveillance" and "ethnic cleansing." Following the Lok Sabha's rejection of the amendments proposed by the Rajya Sabha in the Budget Session, senior Congress Party leader Jairam Ramesh challenged the passage of the Aadhaar Bill as a money bill, which will come up for hearing in the Supreme Court, later this month. Ramesh's challenge, combined with the pending decision by the Supreme Court on whether the Right to Privacy is a fundamental right in India, would also impact the future of the Aadhar Act. "The implication of both these is that the provisions of the Aadhaar Act will be subject to review imminently," said Raman Jit Singh Chima, Policy Director at Access Now. Also on HuffPost India: Akshita Chandra Visual artist Akshita Chandra is a student at the Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology in Bengaluru. In her seventh semester at the institute, she had to submit a project based on any historical event. Chandra wanted to do something that went beyond the purely historical. As she explained to HuffPost India, I wanted to make it relevant, drawing parallels from a historic context, and find its relevance in our contemporary world. Advertisement One issue that had been on Chandra's mind for sometime was that of moral policing. I remember reading about how in 1979, F.N. Souzas hand-written manuscript of his autobiography and 62 drawings he had sent from the United States to India were held at the customs for being too obscene. Furious, Souza had questioned whether the 'ignorant official' would still be confiscating the illustrations if they were line drawings from the Khajuraho temples," she said. "Having visited the temples myself, this rang true to what I wanted to explore through the project What really is obscene? Chandra's creative response was to draw some of Khajuraho's famous erotic sculptures on paper, but with a twist. As she explains, she got working on censoring them dynamically, so that the viewer could help censor what was underneath. She also incorporated elements that referred to contemporary instances of moral policing and censorship in India. Thanks to Chandra's 'dynamic drawings' and deft paperwork, the viewer gets to play the role of the censor but can also take a peek underneath to see what is being censored. The project took her four months to complete and she very appropriately titled it Being Censitive. Her creative comment on the contemporary culture of censorship and moral policing went viral after she posted it on Tumblr. Here are the situations that inspired her sketches: Advertisement Contact HuffPost India Also See On HuffPost: ASSOCIATED PRESS Mohit Goel, right, Director of Ringing Bells Pvt. Ltd., and Ashok Chadha, left, spokesperson, show a Freedom 251 smartphone, which is to be priced at Rs 251 or $3.6 approximately, during its release in New Delhi, India, Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016. (AP Photo/Saurabh Das) Just when some buyers became hopeful that would actually be holding the world's cheapest smartphone, Freedom 251, in their hands on 30 June, they were let down yet again. Ringing Bells, the maker of the smartphone, has delayed the delivery of Freedom 251 by one week. The company says that the phone will now start shipping from 6 July. Last week, Ringing Bells founder Mohit Goel had said that almost two lakh phone were ready to be shipped and that deliveries would commence from 30 June. Customers were to be chosen from a state-wise draw. Photos of the phone had also been circulated. Advertisement Goel had said that there would be an official launch event in Delhi after the first batch of deliveries was completed. Now that event has been pushed to 7 July. The company is also planning to launch an affordable sub-10,000 LCD TV at the event. The television set will also be called 'Freedom'. "We are facing a loss of 140-150 for each unit we sell, but we hope to make a profit on volume. We will have a loss, but I am happy that the dream of connecting rural and poor Indians as part of the 'Digital India' and 'Make in India' initiatives has been fulfilled with Freedom 251," Goel had told IANS. Goel also said that would like to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and request him to recognize the company under 'Digital India' and 'Make In India' programs. ASSOCIATED PRESS Indian policemen stand guard in front of the landmark Charminar during Friday prayers at Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad, India, Friday, April 10, 2015. Security was increased as a preventive measure on the first Friday following the killing of five prisoners, including one accused of terrorism, when, according to the police, they tried to escape from a police van on Tuesday. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.) The National Investigation Agency has unearthed a devious plot by Indian terror operatives, in touch with their Islamic State handlers, of planting beef inside Hyderabad's Bhagyalakshmi temple to spark riots during the month of Ramzan, according to the Times of India. There was also a plan to trigger powerful blasts targeting VVIPs in the city. The report stated that the operatives were in fact "procuring the meat to be placed at temples" when NIA sleuths busted the "terror module" linked to the Islamic State and detained 11 youths, including a techie after conducting searches at different locations in the old city. Advertisement The NIA also recovered weapons, ammunition, urea, acid, some chemicals, electronic gadgets and other incriminating material besides Rs 15 lakh in cash from their possession, officials of (NIA) and Hyderabad Police said, adding the youths were working at the behest of IS handlers. "Searches were conducted by NIA over some suspected terror activities that were planned to be carried out in the city...11 youths including a techie have been detained and Rs 15 lakh cash besides some explosive material has been seized from them," a senior intelligence officer told PTI. Based on credible information that some youths hailing from Hyderabad and their accomplices have entered into criminal conspiracy to wage war against India by collecting weapons and explosive materials to commit terrorist acts, the searches were conducted at at least 10 locations with the assistance of Hyderabad Police, the officer said. Meanwhile, the raids also gave the BJP ammunition to attack the Telangana government and accused it of displaying "criminal neglect" in preventing Hyderabad from becoming a "safe haven" for terror elements. Advertisement "NIA busted an ISIS module in Hyderabad and raids are still underway. BJP questions TS (Telangana State) government on its criminal neglect in preventing Hyderabad and old city from becoming safe havens for terrorists," BJP state unit spokesperson Krishna Saagar Rao said in a statement. An FIR, that the Hindu accessed, stated that the accused and their accomplices from Hyderabad and other parts of the country have entered into a criminal conspiracy to wage war against government of India by collecting weapons and explosive materials to target prominent places, public places, religious places, malls, markets, public properties and in particular sensitive government buildings in Hyderabad and other places. What led the NIA to the second such major bust this year is a purported telephone conversation between the operatives in which they discuss meat procurement. "This was the clincher for us to pick up the module, Our assessment is that the IS-inspired youths, who were in touch with a Syria-based handler identified as 'Amir' but suspected to be Shafi Armar alias Yousuf al Hindi, were planning to carry out bomb blasts to target VVIPs and crowded places like malls and shopping centres, including around Charminar," an NIA officer told TOI. ASSOCIATED PRESS Indian youth hold candles during a protest against sexual violence in New Delhi, India, Monday, Feb. 9, 2015.Police were searching Monday for a man who raped a Japanese student sightseeing in northern India, while elsewhere they announced the arrest of eight men suspected of brutally raping and killing a Nepalese woman, as India authorities continue to struggle to address chronic sexual violence. (AP Photo/ Tsering Topgyal) A member of Rajasthan state commission for women on Tuesday clicked a selfie with a rape survivor, triggering controversy and prompting the chairperson of the commission to seek a written explanation of the matter. The chairperson Suman Sharma, however, is also seen in the selfie along with the member Somya Gurjar. Advertisement Gurjar clicked the selfie when she and the chairperson went to meet the rape victim in Mahila police station (Jaipur North). The matter came to light when the two pictures, in which Gurjar is seen clicking the selfie, went viral on popular messaging application WhatsApp on Wednesday. Jaipur: State Commission for Women member Somya Gurjar takes selfie with an alleged rape survivor. (June 29th) pic.twitter.com/iEP1rYaeZz ANI (@ANI_news) June 30, 2016 Someone clicked a picture of Gurjar taking the selfie and circulated it on the app. Sharma is also seen looking into the camera. Advertisement I was talking to the survivor when the member of the commission clicked these selfies. I am not aware when she (Somya Gurjar) clicked. I do not favour such act and has sought a written explanation from her. She has been asked to submit the explanation by tomorrow, Sharma told PTI. Both Gurjar and Sharma are in the frame of the selfie and the pictures of the act were clicked by someone standing near them in the chamber of the police officer. In the pictures, Gurjar is seen holding the mobile device and the Chairperson is also looking in the frame (of the selfie). In a shocking incident in Alwar district, a 30-year-old woman was allegedly raped by her husband and his two brothers who tattooed expletives on her forehead and hand for not giving Rs 51,000 as the dowry. On Monday, an FIR was registered under sections of 498-A (Protection of Women Against Domestic Violence Act), 376 (punishment for rape)and 406 (punishment for criminal breach of trust) of IPC and an investigation in the case has been initiated. Advertisement Westend61 via Getty Images Close up of crime scene Six days after a 24-year-old woman was stabbed to death at a train station, the Chennai Police released a new photo of the suspect and appealed to the public for help. According to a report in The New Indian Express, the CCTV footage recovered after the gruesome incident couldn't provide a clear picture of the suspected killer. But now, by technologically enhancing the images, the police have managed to procure an identifiable image. Advertisement The grainy image gives a front view of the suspect, a lean young man with a backpack, for the first time. Police release enhanced picture of the suspect in the Swathi murder case. pic.twitter.com/r8HGfq7MxF TheNewsMinute (@thenewsminute) June 30, 2016 On Friday, the victim, identified as S Swathi, was stabbed in the face and the neck several times by an unknown attacker. Eyewitnesses claimed that the two had a minor verbal argument before the incident. Meanwhile, Infosys, where Swathi worked, released a statement condoling their employee's death. "We are working with the local authorities as they investigate the matter and will continue to provide our co-operation and support," the company said in a press statement. Advertisement The Chennai Police have asked people to dial 1512 if they recognise the killer. Also On HuffPost: A Chinese non-government organization has written to Japan's ambassador to China, seeking an apology from the Japanese government for using forced Chinese laborers during World War II. Chinese nationals on behalf of the wartime Chinese forced laborers in Japan sign a deal with Mitubishi Materials in Beijing on June 1, 2016. [Photo/Chinanews.com] "The Japanese government can never escape the responsibilities of kidnapping Chinese citizens and forcing them to work for Japanese enterprises," the China Federation of Demanding Compensation from Japan (CFDC) said in the letter to ambassadorYutaka Yokoi. "After the Pacific War broke out, the Japanese cabinet promulgated the Resolution on Moving Chinese Laborers to Japan on Nov. 27, 1942 and the Resolution on Facilitating the Moving of Chinese Laborers to Japan on Feb. 26, 1944. The two resolutions prove that the Japanese government was responsible for the crime of kidnapping Chinese laborers," the letter said. Copies of the letter have been sent to the ambassador through fax and express delivery. Three representatives of the surviving Chinese laborers signed a deal with Mitsubishi Materials on June 1. The Japanese company agreed to offer an apology and compensate 100,000 yuan (US$15,000) per person to the nearly 4,000 Chinese nationals who were forced to work in labor camps during World War II. It's not enough that only Japanese enterprises apologize, the CFDC president Tong Zeng said. The Japanese government must face up to history, apologize to Chinese laborers and offer them corresponding compensation, so as to seek forgiveness and make sure the tragedy of war will never be repeated, Tong said. At least 39,000 Chinese people were forcibly brought to Japan from China between 1943 and 1945. Almost 7,000 of them died there because of the rigors of their labor, the squalid conditions and a lack of basic essentials such as food and water. Four chronic diseases - cancer, cardiovascular, diabetes and chronic respiratory - topped the causes for premature deaths in Beijing, according to a report released by the Beijing Health and Family Planning Commission on Wednesday. It was the first time a health department has released the premature mortality rate, defined as someone who dies before the age of 70. "If a person dies at 40, he or she is considered to have lost 30 potential years of life," said Zheng Xiaopeng, an official at the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention. "The premature mortality rate is a measure that gives more weight to the death of younger people. And it could be a guide to the health department to take a preventive action," he said. Of the four causes of premature death, cancer was listed at No 1. It contributed to 27.4 percent of all deaths in Beijing last year - an increase by 4.3 percent over 2014. Lung, colorectal and liver cancer were the top three cancers that led to death in Beijing last year, the report said. "What calls for special attention is that thyroid cancer saw significant growth among women in Beijing," said Wang Ning, deputy director of Beijing Cancer Treatment and Prevention Research Office. From 2005 to 2014, thyroid cancer among women in Beijing climbed from about 2.35 to 15 of 100,000 people, according to the report. In 2012, the World Health Organization set a target for member states to reduce premature deaths from chronic diseases by 25 percent by 2025. Chronic disease is threatening more Chinese. The number of Chinese with diabetes is estimated at 110 million, according to a report by the WHO released in April. In Beijing, 2 out of 10 children under 18 years old are overweight or obese. Buhler JV and freshman football will not be defeated The Buhler JV squad capped its unbeaten season with a 34-22 victory at McPherson Monday night with help from members of the freshman team. A Tibetan movie director has been detained for disrupting public order after he was involved in an altercation at an airport, police in northwest China's Qinghai Province confirmed Wednesday. Award-winning director Pema Tseden is in police custody after he trespassed into an off-limits area at Caojiapu Airport in Xining on Saturday, the public security bureau at the airport said in a statement. Pema, who arrived in Xining at around 8:15 p.m., had been trying to locate a piece of missing luggage when he attempted to access the controlled area, the document said. He was physically restrained by airport security staff, who called the police after Pema refused to back down, it said. Three policemen arrived at the scene, but they could not persuade Pema to leave, despite promising that the airport would deliver his missing luggage. Pema refused to cooperate, it said. Police took him in for questioning at around 8:49 p.m. He sustained bruises from the handcuffs due to his erratic behavior, the statement said. He was detained for five days for disturbing the peace under the security administration punishment act, it said. On Monday morning, Pema felt dizzy and complained of tightness in his chest. Two policemen took him to hospital, where he was diagnosed with high blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Pema was briefly hospitalized. The police said he would complete his detention after recovery. The detention and interrogation were both recorded on audio and video devices, police said. Pema's detention came as a surprise to those familiar to him. "He is always friendly and happy," said Hao Jian with Beijing Film Academy, where Pema used to study. "He never even talks loudly." Pema Tseden, born in 1969, is from Qinghai Province. He has won many Chinese and international film awards. Last year, he won the best adapted screenplay award at the Golden Horse Awards for his film "Tharlo." Sen. Elizabeth Warren Calls Out Apple For Locking Out Rivals, Spotify Agrees Spotify has given a big thumbs up to a speech by US Senator Elizabeth Warren (D MA) accusing Google, Amazon and particularly Apple of working to snuff out competition. Apple, says Warren, has placed conditions on its rivals that make it difficult for them to offer competitive streaming services that compete with Apple Music. Jonathan Prince, Spotify's global head of communication and public policy piled on: "Apple has long used its control of iOS to squash competition in music, driving up the prices of its competitors, inappropriately forbidding us from telling our customers about lower prices, and giving itself unfair advantages across its platform through everything from the lock screen to Siri. You know theres something wrong when Apple makes more off a Spotify subscription than it does off an Apple Music subscription and doesnt share any of that with the music industry. They want to have their cake and eat everyone elses too." Watch Warren's speech here. Share on: This Song Belongs To You And Me: Lawsuit Filed Declaring Guthries Classic In Public Domain Owing to a hefty stack of evidence clearly indicating that the song belongs in the public domain, members of the band Satorii are taking the alleged copyright holders of "This Land" to court to prove so once and for all. ____________________________________ Guest Post by Mike Masnick on Techdirt American folk hero Woody Guthrie famously put the following anti-copyright notices on one of his records once: This song is Copyrighted in U.S., under Seal of Copyright # 154085, for a period of 28 years, and anybody caught singin it without our permission, will be mighty good friends of ourn, cause we dont give a dern. Publish it. Write it. Sing it. Swing to it. Yodel it. We wrote it, thats all we wanted to do And yet, his most famous song, "This Land," keeps coming up in copyright disputes. Over a decade ago, we wrote about how the organizations claiming to hold the copyright on that song went after the company JibJab, which had made a clear parody of the song during the 2004 Presidential election. In that case, once the EFF got involved, the case was settled out of court. But as EFF noted back in 2004, part of the reason for the settlement was pretty clear evidence that "This Land" was absolutely in the public domain: Fact #1: Guthrie wrote the song in 1940. At that time, the term of copyright was 28 years, renewable once for an additional 28 years. Under the relevant law, the copyright term for a song begins when the song is published as sheet music (just performing it is not enough to trigger the clock). Fact #2: A search of Copyright Office records shows that the copyright wasn't registered until 1956, and Ludlow filed for a renewal in 1984. Fact #3: Thanks to tips provided by musicologists who heard about this story, we discovered that Guthrie published and sold the sheet music for "This Land Is Your Land" in a pamphlet in 1945. An original copy of this mimeograph was located for us by generous volunteers who visited the Library of Congress in Washington, DC. For those who are not able to visit the Woody Guthrie Manuscript Collection at the American Folklife Archives, we've posted a copy of the document. This means that the copyright in the song expired in 1973, 28 years after Guthrie published the sheet music. Ludlow's attempted renewal in 1984 was 11 years tardy, which means the classic Guthrie song is in the public domain. Not much more had come of this until a few weeks ago when some musicians in the band Satorii decided to take the claimed copyright holders to court, asking for declaratory judgment that the song is in the public domain while also asking that license fees paid in the past get returned. The two defendants? The Richmond Organization and Ludlow Music. If those names sound familiar, they're the same two organizations at the receiving end of a very similar case over the song "We Shall Overcome." The filing in this case repeats the arguments that EFF made 12 years ago almost verbatim. Guthrie published the Song in 1945 with a proper copyright notice, which created a federal copyright in the Song. The copyright to the 1945 publication was not renewed. As a result, the copyright expired after 28 years, and the Song fell into the public domain in 1973. Despite Guthries 1945 publication of the Song, Defendant Ludlow purportedly copyrighted the Song in 1956. Based on that 1956 copyright, Defendant Ludlow has wrongfully and unlawfully insisted it owns the copyright to This Land, together with the exclusive right to control the Songs reproduction, distribution, and public performances pursuant to federal copyright law. For example, on July 23, 2004, Defendant Ludlows counsel wrote to counsel for Jib Jab Media, Inc. (Jib Jab), regarding Jib Jabs use of the Song. In that letter, Defendant Ludlows counsel asserted that Ludlow is the exclusive copyright owner of the classic folk song This Land is Your Land written by the well-known folk artist Woody Guthrie. The letter also asserted that Jib Jabs use of the Songs melody and the well-known lyrics This land is your land, this land is my land and From California to the New York Island infringed Ludlows copyright. Irrefutable documentary evidence shows that Defendants own no valid copyright related to This Land. The popular verses of the Song were first published in 1945, and the copyright in those verses ended no later than 1973 (if not earlier). Defendants never owned a valid copyright to the Songs pre-existing melody. The filing includes a copy of the 1945 publication of a version of the song: The filing notes that the melody pre-existed "This Land" and was used in a variety of earlier songs, and thus he has no copyright in the melody even though Ludlow claimed (falsely) in its 1956 copyright registration that Guthrie wrote the music (it also failed to note that the song had been published multiple times earlier). Amusingly, of course, in noting the lyrics to "This Land," it's noted that part of one version of the song mocks the idea of private property: Was a high wall there that tried to stop me A sign was painted said: Private Property, But on the back side it didnt say nothing This land was made for you and me. The case makes a pretty strong argument for the song being in the public domain. It seems like there's now this trend of forecefully declaring works in the public domain after years of having someone claim ownership over them. While it's good to finally see some of this stuff officially enter the public domain, it's rather ridiculous that we're all left fighting for a public domain. Share on: The city of Cleveland voted Wednesday to purchase $50 million in liability insurance in preparation for the Republican National Convention a five-fold increase over what was originally planned as threats of protest and even attack during the official nomination of Donald Trump grow stronger.National political parties require cities hosting presidential conventions to procure liability insurance, but Clevelands policy provides limits much higher than have been written in previous years. The city Board of Control greenlit a $9.5 million fee to broker AON Risk Services Northeast, far outstripping the $1.7 million officials in Tampa, Florida spent in 2012 when they hosted the GOP convention.Philadelphia, which is holding the Democratic convention, is also expected to spend much less in insurance fees.Thats down to the tone of the tumultuous Republican race for the White House, said Cleveland Finance Director Sharon Dumas.Given the climate nationally and internationally, the risk assessment was higher than its been for other conventions, Dumas told the Associated Press.In a separate interview with Cleveland.com, she added that the national trend of conflicts and the risks associated with the convention justified the higher-than-planned expense.Various Trump campaign events have resulted in violence and even arrests arising from scuffles between supporters and anti-Trump demonstrators, and a police officer was assaulted during a June 3 rally in San Jose, California.The environment in Cleveland is likely to be similarly contentious as groups confirming travel to the city include Trump supporters, anti-Trump protestors, a white nationalist group and the controversial Westboro Baptist Church.Together, Cleveland is expecting between 50,000 and 75,000 extra people in its downtown area during the convention.Theres such a huge range of things that can happen when you have that many people with so many different viewpoints together in a city, Christine Link, executive director of the Ohio ACLU told the Huffington Post.The city will pay for the insurance policy through a $50 million federal security grant approved in December. However, the heightened cost of the coverage will require it to scale back on money previously allocated to personnel, supplies and capital equipment.The convention will be held July 18-21 in Clevelands Quicken Loans Arena. The insurance industry continues to react to news that the UK has voted to leave the European Union.The International Underwriting Association has responded to the result by saying that the London insurance market is resilient and well-placed to respond to the result of the referendum.It says that insurers have been preparing for the possibility of Brexit and will now consider how to adapt their business models accordingly. It also highlights that the industry, along with the wider financial services sector, must be part of the negotiations of terms on which the UK leaves the EU.The free trade benefits of EU membership have been vital in maintaining Londons position as a global insurance hub and are highly valued by IUA members. This is true both for insurers headquartered in the UK and those international firms that use London as their centre for European business, commented Dave Matcham, the IUAs chief executive.He added: The IUAs own research shows that more than 20 per cent of our members premium income comes from continental European markets. Insurance is almost by definition an international business and in order for it to operate efficiently regulatory developments are pursued at an international level.Chubb has announced the extension of its water damage defense services that help homeowners to protect their homes from water leaks."Homeowners often don't realize the extent of damage that can stem from a relatively minor leak. A plumbing issue, like a washing machine hose bursting, can flood a home, and if unchecked, cause floors to buckle, furniture veneers and wallpaper to peel, and sheetrock and upholstered furniture to be destroyed. If not cleaned up quickly and correctly, this may even result in a serious mold outbreak," said Maria Cordeiro, Assistant Vice President, Client Services Manager, Chubb Personal Risk Services.It means that all Chubb homeowner policyholders can buy a specified leak defense system with more than a third off the recommended price.Millennial workers may be spending Friday with their pets as the international Take Your Dog to Work Day takes place, and employers are keen to add pet insurance to workers benefits according to one major insurer.Scott Lisles, chief pet insurance officer at Nationwide told Forbes.com that there is room for growth in the market for pet insurance as part of employee benefits with just 2 per cent of US pets insured now compared to 30 per cent in Sweden and 23 per cent in the UK.Since 65% of Americans own at least one pet, almost two-thirds of employees may be shouldering sizable veterinary costs, Lisle said, noting that there could be a benefit for employers in attracting new hires and help retain current pet-owning employees. Sixty-three people who were forced into labor during World War II and their representatives filed a lawsuit in Beijing Wednesday, rejecting Mitsubishi Materials' settlement deal. The victims, including 48 new plaintiffs from Shanghai Municipality and Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Liaoning, Jilin provinces and 15 who filed the same lawsuit in 2014, demanded a proper apology and compensation from Mitsubishi Materials on Wednesday at Beijing First Intermediate People's Court. "We refuse to accept the Japanese company's reconciliation deal," said 91-year-old Liu Shili, who was forced to work for a year at a coal mine operated by Mitsubishi Mining Corp., as Mitsubishi Materials was known at the time. "We will use the law to hold the Japanese accountable for their wartime crimes and fight for our rights." Most of the forced laborers have already passed but their families fight on in their memory. "The settlement deal is unfair to my late father and thousands of other victims like him," said Pan Ying, whose father Pan Jingxiu had been suing the Japanese company for 20 years. Mitsubishi Materials Corp. was one of dozens of Japanese companies that forced Chinese to work during World War II. Earlier this month, the company offered 100,000 yuan (15,000 U.S. dollars) to each of the Chinese victims and their families. The deal was signed in Beijing with three former workers representing the company's more than 3,000 Chinese victims of forced labor. Pan said the settlement was unacceptable. "We demand real compensation, and will carry on our battle with the support of our country and our legal aid team." Around 40,000 Chinese were forced to work in Japan during the war. Of these slave workers, nearly 7,000 died in Japan. Only nine have survived until today. Thirty-five Japanese companies are believed to have been involved in forced labor from 1937 to 1945, when Japan invaded China. Two subsidiaries of Berkshire Hathaway have been ordered to cease and desist the selling and renewing of certain workers compensation policies in California.The order from the California Department of Insurance follows a ruling last week by Commissioner Dave Jones, who said Applied Underwriters and California Insurance Co. were circumventing a state law designed to shield small businesses from unpredictable workers comp costs.California Insurance, a Berkshire workers comp carrier, was allegedly filing one set of rates and policies with the state department while selling businesses different policies through Applied Underwriters. Under this profit-sharing arrangement, the premium paid by the insured is adjusted for the actual costs of claims incurred while the policy is in place, rather than expected claims.The Sacramento linen-rental firm that filed the complaint said it had been unexpectedly charged with hundreds of thousands of dollars in workers comp coverage for its 60 workers.Jones Wednesday order extends the departments ruling to all similar policies the companies have issued in California, defined as workers comp policies that offer guaranteed limits on clients costs but are tied to reinsurance participation agreements.Similar orders related to Applied Underwriters have been issued by insurance regulators in Wisconsin and Vermont, the department noted.Applied Underwriters disputes Jones finding and plans to appeal in the 30-day period before the order goes into effect.The company strongly disagrees with the commissioners decision and intends to vigorously pursue all legal avenues, a company spokesperson told the Wall Street Journal.The order affects one of the largest companies in the United States, as well as the state of California. It is one of the states 10 biggest workers compensation carriers, according to NAIC data, and accounts for 3.1% of the market. Eric Rudd, founder of the Contemporary Artist Center, stands with works culled from the 1990s on display at Berkshire Art Museum. The nonprofit Berkshire Art Museum is located in the former Methodist church on East Main. This is the museum's third year of operation. The CAC retrospective offers eclectic groupings of work created during the 1990s. Some of Rudd's older works taken out of storage. PreviousNext Berkshire Art Museum Opens With CAC Retrospective Architectural graphic of Williams College's '62 Center by Keith Bona in the 'Art and Architecture.' NORTH ADAMS, Mass. Before Mass MoCA, before DownStreet Art, the Contemporary Artists Center was a converging point for the creative. The Beaver Mill center hosted a plethora of artists from the established to the up-and-coming, from the home-grown to the international. Now selected works from nine of those artists will be on display at the Berkshire Art Museum in "Berkshire Artists of the Contemporary Artists Center 1990-1999" as part of the DownStreet Art season that kicks off Thursday evening. Eric Rudd, the center's founder with his wife, Barbara, and its original director, said the focus of the retrospective is on CAC artists with a strong connection to the Berkshires, either as natives or newcomers. The exhibitors are Dale Bradley, Christopher Gillooly, Brandon Graving, Robert Henriquez, Henry Klein, Barbara May, Robert Schechter, Maria Siskind and David Zaig. The works include paintings, photography, engraving, sculpture and works on paper. Rudd said all the pieces came out of the 1990s and are a good reflection on the type of work being done at the center. The exhibit was limited geographically largely because "it would have been an endless task" to pick from the variety." The retrospective is one of four exhibits in the massive 25,000 square-foot museum. This is the third year for the Berkshire Art Museum, opened by Rudd in the former Methodist church at the corner of Main and Church streets. The Barbara and Eric Rudd Art Foundation purchased the building in 2012 to host some of Rudd's large sculptures and works by regional artists, and as a way to preserve yet another empty church. "The cityscape is important to preserve. Look what's happening over there," he said, nodding to the partially demolished St. Francis' Church down the street. Rudd also owns a church on Summer Street that's been turned into "A Chapel for Humanity" and hosts one of his massive sculptural installation. The Berkshire Art Museum, which has gone through a couple name changes, is large enough to exhibit some pretty large pieces itself. Rudd's Lexan work can be found in the main sanctuary and some of his pieces from the 1960s have been pulled out, dusted off and reassembled in the lower level. But little has been changed of the church's original, Gothic woodwork; Rudd sees it as blending the old with the new. He's had about 3,000 people come through the doors and believes 10,000 a year is a reachable goal. But it takes time and money to keep a historic building going, he acknowledges. A water issue had to be dealt with, masonry repaired, lighting switched out for efficient bulbs, and an elevator kept functioning for handicapped accessibility requirements. Admission to the museum is free, but Rudd is hoping for more donations to help the museum become more sustainable. It also could use some volunteers during its open hours. "We need to spend money to advertise," he said. "We need to let people know it's here." Camera collage by photographer and sculptor Christopher Gillooly, part of the CAC exhibit. "I'm trying to show the flavor of the work that was being done." The CAC founded in 1990 offered intensive programming and workshops, studio space, and the chance to meet with well-known curators, museum directors, critics and artists. From the framed CAC brochures on the wall, Rudd pointed out his late friend Walter Hopps, who curated shows at the Guggenheim and Whitney Center for the Arts, among others, and Thomas Krens, a founder of Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and later Guggenheim director, as examples. The artists lived and worked at the mill and exhibited in the gallery. The first year drew 19, the second more than 100. Artists experimented, including on the "monster" press that was built in the Beaver Mill. "I look back on it and think, 'how cool.' We were feeding and housing 40 artists at a time, it was like running a B&B," Rudd laughed. "It was a great place for people to work and meet other artists." Some of those involved also became hitched to Mass MoCA, or made connections that took them farther afield, or found they liked North Berkshire so much, they moved here. The center's influence waned in 2007 when it abruptly moved to Troy, N.Y., under a new director and new board. Its departure from the city was somewhat acrimonious, but Rudd wants the city to remember the center's influence in attracting a burgeoning arts community long before the concept of a creative economy took hold. "This is where it all began," he said. "It all began at the Contemporary Artist Center." Berkshire Art Museum is open Thursday through Sunday from noon to 5; it will be open later this Thursday for DownStreet Art. Admission is free. DownStreet Art kicks off at 5 p.m. on Thursday with gallery openings and music. Jeff Goldblum and Liam Hemsworth look into the maelstrom of another Independence Day. 'Independence Day: Resurgence': Oh No, Not Again In one scene of director/co-writer Roland Emmerich's "Independence Day: Resurgence," brainy scientist Julius Levinson, played by Judd Hirsch, berates his equally brainy scientist son, David Levinson (Jeff Goldblum), thusly: "So, it takes the end of the world for a son to visit his father?" It is but one of a long list of cliches the filmmaker surmises would attend a planet facing Armageddon at the hands of alien beings. Uh, well, more correctly, it's not at the hands of, but at the tentacles of, which of course is much scarier. Skipping my usual diatribe and head-scratching inquiry as to why folks would want to see a film about our threatened extermination in the first place, the good news is, if you endure the cartoonish depictions of this second coming, a third is currently in the works. That means humanity is safe for now. If we hear no distant signals from the outer space climes of Hollywood about a fourth episode, we'll worry. Meanwhile, those among the original film's survivors who got the money they wanted are back to fight the good fight. That means no Will Smith, and no strong central figure to replace him. Instead, we get a string of obscure complications that speculates ad nauseam about how these octopus/pterodactyl monsters have summoned the ability to stage a counterattack 20 years after their assumed defeat. Both the lay viewer and the techno-savvy are bound to see it as a lot of rigmarole and blather hardly worth their suspension of disbelief. As Mr. Spock might observe, it simply "doesn't compute." We are thus relegated to appreciating the very latest wizardry in special effects, compromised by an almost equal amount of silly jargon, which some cynics may suggest is a microcosm of our current state of affairs. Purposely or not, Emmerich's screenplay, aside from its inundations of cyber-babble, emulates the naive, paranoid sensibilities of the McCarthy Era sci-fi films. Alternately campy and just plain odd, it makes us wonder what, besides the filling of coffers, Emmerich hoped to achieve. At the heart of the nerdy postulations, it's just a traditional love story with a bunch of soap opera sentiments that might please those poor viewers dragged to these proceedings by their geeky significant others. Liam Hemsworth is handsome hero Jake Morrison, fighter pilot extraordinaire, beloved by Maika Monroe's Patricia Whitmore, daughter of former President Whitmore (Bill Pullman) and a darn good jet jockey in her own right. But drat, there'll be no sailing off into the sunset until these love-smitten kids are assured that the Earth will survive to see those sunsets. Complicating matters, there's a big megillah attendant to Jake's feud with fellow pilot pal-turned-adversary, Dylan Hiller (Jessie T. Usher). It's obvious the world can't be saved if these two guys aren't talking. Flash Mitsubishi Materials' apology to forced Chinese laborers during World War II is insincere and the lawsuit against the company will continue, said a Chinese lawyer on Wednesday after the Japanese company reached a legal settlement with three forced Chinese laborers, the Shanghai-based Wenhui Daily reported. Chinese nationals on behalf of the wartime Chinese forced laborers in Japan sign a deal with Mitubishi Materials in Beijing on June 1, 2016. [Photo/Chinanews.com] The three forced Chinese laborers have the right to sign the deal, but the lawyer team representing the Chinese forced laborers will carry on with the lawsuit and continue to defend the truth and the rights of those who have been hurt, said lawyer Kang Jian. A public statement has been issued by the Chinese lawyer team, who said that Mitsubishi Materials was playing with words in the agreement, as the money it promised to give to the victims was labeled as a fund "for Sino-Japan friendliness" and not as compensation. According to the statement, Mitsubishi Materials deliberately avoided mentioning in the agreement that it had colluded with the Japanese government to kidnap and enslave Chinese laborers during wartime, thereby avoiding its liability to make corresponding compensation. The Chinese plaintiffs negotiated with Mitsubishi Materials on this matter, but their request to change the expression was refused and the negotiation was halted on Feb. 11, 2015. The company has never contacted the plaintiffs afterward, the statement said. Previous media reports quoted Mitsubishi Materials as saying that the company has found more than 1,000 forced Chinese laborers or surviving family members, and 95 percent of them agreed to the settlement. But the Chinese lawyers' statement said this is not true. Zhang Yang, whose father was a forced laborer, said on his father's behalf that the settlement is not agreed to by all and won't be accepted. "A monument in memory of the dead must be erected, and an apology must also be made. We would rather see these two requests met than receive any financial compensation," he said. Mitsubishi Materials has agreed to offer an apology and compensate 100,000 yuan (US$15,000) per person to the nearly 4,000 Chinese nationals who were forced to work in labor camps during World War II. At least 39,000 Chinese people were forcibly brought to Japan from China between 1943 and 1945. Almost 7,000 of them died there because of the rigors of their labor, the squalid conditions and a lack of basic essentials like food and water. Edward Price Non-Resident Senior Fellow NYU Center for Global Affairs Contact email linkedin Edward Price, a former British economic official, teaches international political economy, financial systems and international relations at NYUas Center for Global Affairs. He is also an economic advisor for BritishAmerican Business (BAB). Educated at the London School of Economics (LSE), Edward holds an MSc in Finance and Economic Policy and an MA in German History. He has worked in both the British and European parliaments, was Americas editor at IFLR and has worked in the City of London. He speaks German, gets by in Italian and is a member of the Economic Club of New York (ECNY). Portugal: Concluding Statement of the Fourth Post-Program Monitoring and 2016 Article IV Consultation Discussions A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or mission), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF's Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments. The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMFs Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision. An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission visited Lisbon during June 15-29, 2016, for the Fourth Post-Program Monitoring discussionspart of the IMFs regular surveillance of countries with IMF credit outstanding above 100 percent of quota and 2016 Article IV consultation. The Post-Program Monitoring discussions were coordinated with the European Commission and the European Central Bank. At the end of the visit, the mission issued the following statement: Portugals economic recovery has entered its fourth year, and the country enjoys favorable access to financial markets, having successfully concluded the adjustment program. The pace of growth has softened recently, as exports and investment have moderated. Increased market uncertainty in the context of heightened risk aversion following the referendum in the United Kingdom could persist for an extended period. This reinforces the importance of a credible policy framework. Further reforms are essential to improve medium-term growth prospects, together with additional steps to strengthen bank balance sheets. These measures need to be supported by sustained fiscal consolidation to reduce vulnerability from high public debt and help improve the economys resilience to shocks. 1. The pace of Portugals economic recovery has slowed since the middle of last year. While private consumption continued to expand robustly, investment and exports weakened, reflecting increased uncertainty and a sharp downturn in some markets for Portuguese goods. As a result, real GDP growth fell to 0.9 percent (year-on-year) in the first quarter of 2016 and is projected at 1.0 percent for the year as a whole. The medium-term outlook is somewhat less benign than at the time of the Third Post-Program Monitoring. Growth is expected to strengthen only gradually to around 1.2 percent as the persistent structural rigidities and the unresolved private sector debt overhang take longer to address than previously assumed. Downside risks to the outlook are elevated due to declining household savings, still subdued investor confidence and greater uncertainty in the external environment, including as a result of the U.K. referendum. 2. In light of increased uncertainty, the authorities recent reaffirmation of their commitment to the 2016 fiscal target is welcome. Fiscal spending has been contained so far this year, but there are risks to revenue collection in the context of slower growth, and spending pressures could emerge in the second half of the year. On account of these risks, further measures to support spending restraint will likely be needed to ensure that this years fiscal target of 2.2 percent of GDP is achieved. In the absence of additional steps, staff projects a deficit of close to 3 percent of GDP. 3. A credible path for medium-term fiscal consolidation is needed to put public debt on a firmly downward trajectory. This would require setting realistic targets that are underpinned by concrete measures. The authorities Stability Program for 20162020 lays out ambitious goals for medium-term fiscal adjustment, but lacks specificity which would permit an assessment of their feasibility. In staffs view, a structural primary adjustment of 0.5 percent of GDP in both 2017 and 2018 would constitute an appropriately realistic fiscal path. This should be underpinned by permanent savings measures, with a focus on rationalization of public wages and pensions. It is regrettable, therefore, that the full rollback of public sector wage cuts has not been accompanied by a more fundamental reform of the public sector. An expenditure review encompassing all areas of the general government would help identify priority areas for generating public savings. Efforts also need to be stepped up to implement the new Budget Framework Law which aims at improving budget management and transparency. On the revenue side, a more stable and predictable tax system would help foster confidence and encourage private investment. More broadly, it is important to take advantage of the favorable financing environment facilitated by the ECBs accommodative monetary stance to advance the fiscal adjustment effort. 4. The Portuguese banking system continues to operate in a challenging environment. Banks remain liquid, but weak asset quality, low interest margins, and sluggish lending growth remain a drag on their profitability. The process of balance sheet repair has moved slowly, with a large share of banking assets still tied up in low-productivity firms, thereby constraining economic activity. Supervisors should encourage a more ambitious approach to addressing non-performing legacy assets and corporate debt workouts to improve the resilience of the banking system, which should also be promoted by a more appropriate tax, legal, and judicial framework. This will necessitate a stronger focus by banks on profitability, underpinned by meaningful cost reduction and further efforts to strengthen internal governance. At the current juncture, removing uncertainty about the way forward for publicly-owned banks would also reinforce financial stability and improve the operating environment for all banks. Moreover, it would clarify sovereign financing requirements, with implications for both sovereign and bank funding costs. 5. Progress on structural reforms is essential to spur income convergence and job creation, particularly given rising demographic challenges. Portugal made important advances during the adjustment program in improving the flexibility and competiveness of labor and product markets; it is important to ensure that these are carried forward. A change in the direction of reforms would add to the uncertainty already weighing on investment and diminish the prospects for growth, employment and income. In particular, any unwinding of past policies that have succeeded in making hiring and collective bargaining more flexible would have adverse consequences for the competitiveness of Portuguese firms. Moreover, Portugals medium-term growth challenges are amplified by the aging of the population. The mission would like to express its gratitude to the Portuguese authorities and other interlocutors, and its counterparts from the European Commission and the European Central Bank for their constructive engagement and cooperation. Portugal: Selected Economic Indicators (Year-on-year percent change, unless otherwise indicated) Projections 2015 2016 2017 Real GDP 1.5 1.0 1.1 Private consumption 2.6 2.2 1.4 Public consumption 0.6 0.3 0.5 Gross fixed capital formation 4.1 -1.2 2.0 Exports 5.2 2.9 3.4 Imports 7.6 3.2 3.8 Contribution to growth (Percentage points) Total domestic demand 2.5 1.3 1.4 Foreign balance -1.1 -0.2 -0.3 Resource utilization Employment 1.1 0.8 0.5 Unemployment rate (Percent) 12.4 11.8 11.3 Prices GDP deflator 1.9 1.7 1.3 Consumer prices (Harmonized index) 0.5 0.7 1.1 Money and credit (End of period, percent change) Private sector credit -4.1 -2.2 -0.5 Broad money 4.1 2.3 2.0 Fiscal indicators (Percent of GDP) General government balance1 -4.4 -3.0 -3.0 Primary government balance 0.2 1.6 1.5 Structural primary balance (Percent of potential GDP) 3.1 2.6 2.2 General government debt 128.8 128.3 128.0 Current account balance (Percent of GDP) 0.5 0.0 -0.5 Nominal GDP (Billions of euros) 179.4 184.4 188.9 Sources: Bank of Portugal; Ministry of Finance; National Statistics Office (INE); Eurostat; and IMF staff projections. 1 In 2015, fiscal cost from the resolution of Banif amounted to 1.2 percent of GDP. Flash Forty professionals from Kenya's public sector will on Thursday leave for China for a training program aimed at improving their skills and competence. Speaking at a forum in Nairobi on Wednesday, Kenyan officials said the training program will strengthen efforts to re-invent the civil service through capacity development. Grace Otieno, the Principal Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service said the latest beneficiaries of China-sponsored training program are expected to champion reforms and quality service delivery in the civil service. "The trainees will acquire critical skills while in China and we expect them to participate in design and execution of programs that advance transformation in the public sector once they come back," Otieno said. She revealed the 40 civil servants to benefit from China-funded skills development program are drawn from health, security, agriculture, fisheries and ICT sectors. "We are sending these public servants to China to obtain knowledge that can be harnessed during implementation of flagship vision 2030 projects," Otieno said. She commended the latest China-supported training program for Kenyan civil servants that will focus on public health and counter-terrorism. "Training on anti-terrorism is particularly crucial as we deal with a menace that is a major threat to our security and economic growth. Likewise, civil servants trained on urban public health will help us deal with outbreak of contagious diseases," said Otieno. The Chinese government has supported development of human resources in Kenya through training and research since the 1950s. Liu Xianfa, Chinese Ambassador to Kenya who also attended the forum, said the blossoming Sino-Kenya bilateral cooperation has been extended to critical areas like education, public administration, ICT, health and security. He revealed that China will increase the number of scholarships for Kenyan public servants as the two countries deepen bilateral ties. Imperial Valley News Center Tackling intractable computing problems Washington, DC - Computers have proven capable of helping scientists solve many research problems, from the dynamics of black hole mergers to distant connections in reams of genomic data. But there are some problems that computers cannot solve -- at least not in a reasonable time frame. The question concerning which problems can and can't be solved efficiently, also known as "intractability," are a great scientific challenge for computer scientists. One such question is one of the longest-standing unsolved problems in computer science, something called "P versus NP." This problem can be thought of as the question of whether every problem whose solution can be quickly verified by a computer can also be quickly solved by a computer. Or, put another way: is it substantially harder to find a solution than it is to check that a given solution is correct? (P vs. NP is one of the Clay Mathematics Institute Millennium Prize Problems, with a million-dollar prize to whomever can find a solution.) Intractability -- if it truly exists -- means we might not be able to always find accurate, efficient algorithms for some important problems: from eliminating bugs from software programs, to knowing for sure if and when our encryption schemes are secure, to fully understanding how the brain works. Limitations in these areas would have implications for privacy, economics and many scientific and societal problems. Solving serious games Supported by a $10 million National Science Foundation (NSF) Expeditions in Computing award, an interdisciplinary, multi-institutional team led by Sanjeev Arora at Princeton University worked between 2008 and 2013, to find the sources of intractability, to circumvent intractability when possible using approximations and other means, and to understand the implications of intractability for other areas, from physics and biology to economics and information theory. During that time, the team made several theoretical advances, including a new understanding of the Unique Games Conjecture, which is one of the approaches used to try to make progress toward understanding the N versus NP question. The Unique Games Conjecture postulates that for many of the problems people would most like to solve, the current algorithms for finding a good approximation cannot be improved. Arora, working with Boaz Barak of Microsoft Research (previously of Princeton) and David Steurer of Cornell University, showed that there is an algorithm for solving Unique Games that is in fact better: one that is faster than exponential-time (where the time it takes to approximate the answer increases exponentially based on the data size) but still not as fast as polynomial-time (where the time to solution increases by a power of the data size). This means that some complex and seemingly intractable problems can be solved more efficiently than believed. Their results were published in the October 2015 issue of the Journal of the ACM. On the other hand, Subhash Khot, a theoretical computer scientist on the team who introduced the conjecture in the first place and subsequently won the 2010 Alan T. Waterman Award, made important progress towards proving the Unique Games Conjecture was in fact true. (There is still no consensus in the community regarding the truth of the Unique Games Conjecture.) The team wrestled with a related real-world application as well: public-key cryptography, the means by which e-commerce and much of internet traffic is kept secure. All current forms of public-key cryptography (such as SSL and SSH) use a handful of algebraic methods. However, emerging algorithms, both classical and quantum, could break them all. The team derived fundamentally new forms of public-key cryptography that might remain secure far into the future -- a way of harnessing intractability to support cybersecurity. Insights from the study of intractability were applied to other fields, too. For instance, it was shown that the task of evaluating the worth of a financial derivative, the type of collateralized debt obligation that had a key role in the financial collapse of 2008, is related to solving intractable problems. In fact, under widely held intractability assumptions, it is possible for a person with secret information to construct derivatives that are basically indistinguishable from a normal derivative -- or more precisely, that distinguishing between the two requires a huge amount of computation -- but are actually worthless. "Some of the important leaps, for example in the understanding of efficient approximation, public key cryptography, arithmetic complexity and the role of intractability in other sciences, seem to happen mainly due to the collaborative environment of the Intractability Center, supported by the NSF Expedition," said Avi Wigderson, a research team member from the Institute for Advanced Study. "I believe we proved that large groups can be effectively harnessed for theoretical projects." As an added benefit, the project served a training ground for theoretical computer scientists. According to Wigderson, "the project trained a couple of dozen students and postdocs, many of whom are young stars in algorithms and complexity theory." NSF Program Director Tracy Kimbrel agreed. "In addition to conducting world-class research in theoretical computer science, the team also innovated in attracting new talent to theory via new summer programs for undergraduates and high school students and a highly successful workshop where established women in theory reached out to undergraduate and entering graduate student women," Kimbrel said. "The role models at the 'Women in Theory' workshops have been credited with inspiring numerous women to pursue studies in theoretical computer science." The researchers continue to build on the progress of the Expedition, taking the improved understanding of intractability in new directions. New directions Arora and colleagues at Princeton, for instance, are currently working on a further NSF-supported project to develop machine learning algorithms with provable guarantees about the quality of the solutions they provide or the time it will take to run the algorithm. Such guarantees will be very important as machine learning algorithms are increasingly used for life-or-death applications like medical decision-making. Finding such guarantees often involves designing fundamentally new algorithms, or proving the guarantees for existing algorithms are sound. "It is fair to say that the ideas and young researchers generated by this project will continue to impact research for many years to come," Arora said. Investigators Assaf Naor Boaz Barak Michael Saks Subhash Khot Avi Wigderson Eric Allender Mario Szegedy Robert Tarjan Sanjeev Arora Moses Charikar Bernard Chazelle Related Institutions/Organizations New York University Princeton University Institute for Advanced Study Rutgers University New Brunswick Locations New York , New York Princeton , New Jersey New Brunswick , New Jersey Related Programs Algorithmic Foundations Expeditions in Computing Related Awards #1117309 AF: Small: Expansion, Unique Games, and Efficient Algorithms #1527371 AF: Small: Linear Algebra++ and applications to machine learning #0832795 Collaborative Research: Understanding, Coping with, and Benefiting From, Intractability #0832797 Collaborative Research: Understanding, Coping with, and Benefiting from Intractibility. #0832787 Collaborative Research: Understanding, Coping with, and Benefiting from, Intractability Years Research Conducted 2008 - 2016 Total Grants $10,455,604 Imperial Valley News Center State Department Terrorist Designations Washington, DC - The Department of State has announced al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization under Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) under section 1(b) of Executive Order (E.O.) 13224. The Department of State also designated AQIS leader Asim Umar under section 1(b) of Executive Order (E.O.) 13224. The consequences of this designation include a prohibition against U.S. persons engaging in transactions with AQIS and Umar and the freezing of all of their property and interests in the United States, or which come within the United States or the possession or control of U.S. persons. In addition, the consequences of AQIS FTO designation include a prohibition against knowingly providing, or attempting or conspiring to provide, material support or resources to the organization. Al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahiri announced the formation of AQIS in a video address in September 2014. The group is led by Asim Umar, a former member of U.S. designated Foreign Terrorist Organization Harakat ul-Mujahidin. AQIS claimed responsibility for the September 6, 2014 attack on a naval dockyard in Karachi, in which militants attempted to hijack a Pakistani Navy frigate. AQIS has also claimed responsibility for the murders of activists and writers in Bangladesh, including that of U.S. citizen Avijit Roy, U.S. Embassy local employee Xulhaz Mannan, and of Bangladeshi nationals Oyasiqur Rahman Babu, Ahmed Rajib Haideer, and A.K.M. Shafiul Islam. Todays action notifies the U.S. public and the international community that AQIS and Umar are actively engaged in terrorism. Designations of terrorist individuals and groups expose and isolate organizations and individuals, and result in denial of access to the U.S. financial system. Moreover, designations can assist or complement the law enforcement actions of other U.S. agencies and other governments. Organic certification assistance to organic operations in California Sacramento, California - The USDAs Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has announced the availability of $2,180,87, for organic certification assistance to organic operations in California. Funds from the National Organic Certification Cost Share Program (NOCCSP) are available through CDFAs State Organic Program (SOP) to help more organic operations succeed and take advantage of economic opportunities in this growing market. Cost Share helps farmers and processors afford the expense of organic certification by refunding up to 75 percent or $750 of their certification fees. Cost Share funds are available to any eligible organic operation in California that has received or renewed organic certification between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016. The SOP administers the Cost Share program in California, and is responsible for reviewing and approving cost share applications. The SOP then works with the State Controllers Office to process funds for the issuance of reimbursement checks to the organic operations. In addition, the SOP collaborates with accredited certifying agents to ensure that cost share resources are available to their clients and information is posted on their respective certifier websites. The deadline for submitting Cost Share applications to CDFA is October 31, 2016. Applications must be postmarked by this date. The following are needed to complete a Cost Share application: A copy of an organic certification document. Copies of all associated organic certification and inspection expense receipts. - Please contact a certifier if you do not have the above documents. Completed and signed CDFA Cost Share Application. The applications can be mailed, emailed, or faxed to CDFA. Completed Payee Data Record (STD. 204) form. (Name on this form must match the name on the Cost Share application). To apply, go to the CDFA website, http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/is/i_&_c/organic.html and download the Cost Share application packet/documents. Send the completed, signed application to CDFA with all supporting documentation listed above. Applications are approved on a first received, first approved basis. Incomplete applications will be returned and the application process will need to be started again. Applications must be sent to CDFA. Do not send the application to your certifier. Mail applications to: California Department of Food and Agriculture State Organic Program Cost Share Reimbursement ATTN: Sharon Parsons 1220 N Street Sacramento, CA 95814 Please allow 6-8 weeks for the completion of the Cost Share process. For additional information or assistance, please contact Sharon Parsons at (916) 900-5202 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Terrorist Attack in the West Bank Washington, DC - We condemn in the strongest possible terms the outrageous terrorist attack this morning in the West Bank where a 13-year-old girl, Hallel Ariel, was stabbed to death in her home. This brutal act of terrorism is simply unconscionable. We extend our deepest condolences to her family. We also understand another individual who was responding to the attack was wounded by the attacker. We extend our hopes for a quick and full recovery. This Isnt Our Last Love Letter Dear Don Don, Way back in 92 I walked into the room and knew Never felt this way before I shook your hand while gazing into your eyes And the feeling grew As I took a seat I knew A love that would have my heart Forever I knew Way back in 92 They say love at first sight doesnt always last or isnt true We were the exception to that rule Our love had no where to hide A spark set fire As if this is how the universe started I never doubted our love or what we could do Together we grew Forming a bond everlasting That became our glue My euphoria was YOU Im eternally grateful for the love and life we shared For how fortunate we were : to have and to hold through sickness and in health Til death do us part Until we are together again This isnt our last love letter I love you with all my heart and soul Yours forever, Deirdre (Mrs. Hank Snow) Im fortunate to have fallen in love with, marry and make a life with the sharpest, coolest, funniest, most rare, bad ass, tender loving, loyal man on the planet, my husband Don Imus. A True American Hero I dont know why it has been so hard for me to write about my dear friend Don Imus. I certainly know what he meant to me, my family, my charity, my hospital and the millions of fans that listened and loved him for so many years. I keep reading all the beautiful condolences that people are writing about how much a part of their lives were effected by listening to him over the years. But what most people dont talk enough about is what he did for all of us. In every sense of the word, he was an American Hero. His work with children with so many different illnesses and his dedication to their future was unmatched by anyone I have ever known or heard about. Besides raising over $100,000,000 for so many causes, he took care of young people for over 20 years in a state where he could not breathe. Along with his incredible wife Deirdre, he created a world where children were not defined by their disease. That was a miracle! He was a miracle. I will miss him ever day for the rest of my life. I was blessed to be a part of his and Deirdes life. No one will ever do what he did. I love you Don Imus - A TRUE AMERICAN HERO David Jurist IMUS IN THE MORNING FIRST DAY BACK! Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} I would rather go to jail than succumb to the regime: these are the defiant words of Iranian satirical cartoonist Atena Farghadani, who is just the latest in a long history of extremely brave creative people to prove that brutal subjugation cannot subdue political protest through art. She was released from Irans notorious Evin prison just a handful of weeks ago but has already posted a new cartoon on Facebook. A small thing, you might think. But when a cartoon in which she depicted government officials as farm animals appeared on that social networking site in 2014, it led to her receiving a prison sentence of more than 12 years. During her ordeal Farghadani was beaten, strip-searched, went on hunger strike and despite being only 29 suffered a heart attack. Remaining an artist even under extreme duress, during her imprisonment Farghadani flattened the paper cups and used them to paint and draw on. When the prison guards realised what she was doing they confiscated the cups and stopped giving them to her. When she found some in a bathroom she managed to smuggle them into her cell to continue to work. But, according to Amnesty International, the guards found them and Farghadani was badly beaten when she refused to strip for a full body search. The cartoon that led to Atena Farghadani's imprisonment Farghadani is an extraordinary woman. She is working to promote human and female rights in a repressive society with a long record of abuses, in defiance of a regime that hands down prison sentences to artists, journalists, bloggers and activists that seem wildly heavy-handed and bafflingly wrong to outsiders and many Iranians. Now thats shes free, she apparently has no intention of leaving Iran and seems determined to continue to produce artworks uncensored. She has not only grabbed the attention of the regime through her searingly brilliant cartoons; she has also gained the eyes of the entire world as fellow cartoonists armed themselves with pencils to #Draw4Atena, with hundreds of new artworks published online calling for her release and drawing attention to the plight of other prisoners of conscience. One of the cartoonists who championed her cause in a series of original works, Gavin Aung Thang, described why he was so moved by her cause: Atena was just like me, drawing cartoons at home and posting them online. To think someone could be jailed for doing what I take for granted every day really hit home, he says. The fact that she was an amateur cartoonist. She wasn't working for a well-known newspaper or even a online outlet or blog, she had just posted one cartoon on Facebook. Thousands of people every second of every day post the most hateful vitriol on Facebook without any consequence. It was almost laughable at how minor her offence was. The fact that she faced 12 years in prison, had been beaten and had already suffered from a heart attack while imprisoned was even more outrageous. The artwork that first landed Farghadani in jail was a protest at plans by the Iranian government to restrict womens access to contraception and to outlaw voluntary sterilisation. The piece (which is completely brilliant) depicted Iranian government officials as goats and monkeys. She was arrested in August 2014 and spent three months in Evin prison in Tehran, two weeks of which in solitary confinement. Upon her release, unbowed, she wrote letters of protest to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader, Hassan Rouhani, the President, and the head of the prison service, claiming she had been beaten, strip-searched and verbally abused during her imprisonment. Receiving no reply she uploaded a video describing her experience in Evin again a brave act which unfortunately culminated in her being re-arrested in January 2015 and sentenced in June by controversial judge Abolghassem Salavati for colluding against national security, spreading propaganda against the system and insulting members of the parliament through her artwork. As if a 12-year-and-nine-month sentence wasnt bad enough with the artist expecting to be released around her 40th birthday Farghadani was then accused of indecency for allegedly shaking her male lawyers hand when he visited her in jail and looked set to face an even longer prison sentence. But a petition by Amnesty International that garnered more than 33,000 signatures and the continuing campaign by cartoonists around the world orchestrated by the international Cartoonists Rights Network (CRNI) shone an embarrassing international spotlight on her predicament. In May a successful appeal by her lawyer Mohammad Moghimi succeeded in reducing her sentence to 18 months which she had already served. She was acquitted of counter-revolutionary activity and undermining national security and her sentence for insulting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was suspended for three years. Last week a newly released Farghadani proved her crusading spirit is undimmed, publishing a photograph of herself holding her latest work, a cartoon depicting the president of Alzahra University, from which she was expelled following her arrest. The university president is Ensieh Khazali is the daughter of Ayatollah Khazali, a hardline politician who died in 2015. The cartoon depicts Ensieh chained to a chair bearing the late Ayatollahs face. Speaking to CRNI the artist described herself as so happy to be free, expressed her appreciation for all the cartoonists who highlighted her plight and said that she wants to stay in Iran and to continue working as an artist. It's great news that Atena's free, but she should never have been imprisoned in the first place - she hadn't committed any crime, Amnesty International says. She was a prisoner of conscience, punished for peacefully expressing her opinion. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} British actors Idris Elba, John Boyega and Emma Watson are among 683 new filmmakers to be invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, in what the Oscar-awarding body has described as its largest and most diverse membership drive ever. Of the prospective new Academy members, 46 per cent are women and 41 per cent are people of colour. The list of new members unveiled on Wednesday demonstrates the impact of the recent #OscarsSoWhite controversy, which saw the Academy roundly criticised for its lack of diversity after two consecutive crops of all-white acting nominees at the 2015 and 2016 Oscars. At the time of the 2016 awards, just 25 per cent of the Academys 6,261 voting members were female, and a mere eight per cent were people of colour. When the new class is included in the count, those numbers will rise to 27 and 11 per cent respectively. But that is still a long way from the progress promised by Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs, who has said she hopes to double the diverse membership of the 90-year-old organisation by 2020. That explains the unprecedented size of the new member intake, which is more than double last years 322 invitations and almost four times the size of the 2011 intake of 178. The Academy is made up of 17 branches, which each create their own lists of prospective members. Among the actors invited this year are Michael B Jordan, Chadwick Boseman, Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Mark Rylance, Carmen Ejogo, Kate Beckinsale, Oscar Isaac and Alicia Vikander. The list of invitations from the directors branch also includes several British filmmakers, including Lenny Abrahamson, Amma Asante, Sarah Gavron and documentary director Asif Kapadia. Were proud to welcome these new members to the Academy, and know they view this as an opportunity and not just an invitation, a mission and not just a membership, Ms Isaacs said in a statement, urging Hollywood to open its doors wider, and create opportunities for anyone interested in working in this incredible and storied industry. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Jennifer Saunders has denied that Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie is racist after the film sparked controversy by casting a white actor to play an Asian character. Saunders wrote and stars in the comedy, which had its London premiere on Wednesday night, but insists that any offence results from a misunderstanding of the script. Asian-American comedian Margaret Cho was among the first to voice her anger at the decision to cast Scottish comedian Janette Krankie as Japanese fashion designer Huki Muki, branding it an example of yellowface casting which gives Asian roles to white actors. I love AbFab but #YELLOWFACE is something I cannot watch - I just cant, Cho wrote on Twitter in December. Its sad when heroes are no longer heroic. Too bad. #racism. Saunders insists that Huki Muki being played by a white actor is part of the joke, as the whole film is about people being what theyre not. Id always thought it was going to be Janette because I just thought that was hilarious, she told the Guardian. Huki Muki is a brand, she is the designer and she looks a bit Japanese, but the moment she opens her mouth shes from Glasgow. Saunders, 57, argues that it was just a silly little joke and that in no way does the film pretend she is Japanese, with no yellow makeup or slitty eyes or any silliness. She believes the controversy came about after a casting call was put out for a Japanese designer. This nonsense that everyone can be offended by the idea of someone else being offended by something, its just ridiculous, she said. Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, which itself satirises the rise and rise of social media, arrives in UK cinemas on 1 July. Flash Top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong Un on Wednesday was elected chairman of a newly-created institution at the 4th session of the 13th Supreme People's Assembly (SPA), or the country's parliament, state television reported. Three members of the standing committee of the political bureau of the central committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea were elected vice-chairmen of the institution, namely Hwang Pyong So, Choe Ryong Hae and Pak Pong Ju. Eight others were appointed members of the institution, some of whom are members of the political bureau of the WPK Central Committee. The session revised the Constitution of the DPRK. The new state institution, called the State Affairs Commission, was set up to replace the National Defense Commission, according to the revised Constitution. Kim has led the National Defense Commission as first chairman since April 2012. In addition, the Supreme Public Prosecutors Office and the Supreme Court were changed to the Central Public Prosecutors Office and the Central Court respectively, according to the revision. A personnel adjustment was also made to the Presidium of the SPA, the cabinet and legal institutions. The Secretariat under the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of Korea will be removed. Kim was promoted from the first secretary to the chairman of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea at the 7th party congress held in early May. He is also holding the post of the Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army. At the meeting, Premier Pak Pong Ju touched upon the five-year economic development plan, which was initiated by Kim at a rare party congress convened in 36 years. A loyalty campaign called "200-day battle" from June 1 until Dec. 17 was rolled out nationwide to mark a starting point for implementing the plan. Pak said that the objective of the plan was to vitalize people's economic life, ensure balance between various economic departments and lay a foundation for a sustained development of the national economy. He stressed that the cabinet should stick to the party's line of Byungjin, or parallel development of the economy and nuclear weapons, address electricity shortage, put basic industries back on a normal track, and increase output of agriculture and light industry so as to fundamentally improve people's livelihood. The SPA, as the country's top legislature, has the power to adopt, amend or supplement enactments to the constitution, determine state policies and budgets, and adjust the leadership. The third session of the 13th SPA was held in April 2015. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Dir: Mandie Fletcher, 91 mins, starring: Jennifer Saunders, Joanna Lumley, Julia Sawalha, Celia Imrie, Chris Colfer, Kathy Burke The real mystery in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie is that there is absolutely no sign of Victoria Beckham in the film. Every other celebrity imaginable puts in an appearance. The filmmakers hit us with a relentless barrage of cameos. Jean Paul Gaultier is a beachcomber with a metal detector; Mad Mens Jon Hamm is chatting up Kate Moss at a party; Emma Bunton is on child minding duty; Jerry Hall is droning on and on and on about her Chanel accoutrements; Orla Guerin and Jeremy Paxman are discussing the disappearance of a supermodel as if it is a matter beyond national importance; and even Dame Edna Everage is spotted taking a dip in a pool in a hotel on the Riviera. For a post-Brexit Britain looking for something to cheer it up, this film is a shot in the arm. It could be argued that its heroine Edina Monsoon (Jennifer Saunders) is the perfect symbol for her teetering country as it wrestles with its identity. With her domineering behaviour and delusions of grandeur, shes the guest everyone wants to avoid at parties. The Europeans arent very keen on her either when she and her sidekick Patsy (Joanna Lumley) arrive in Cannes, on the run from the "pigs" and in search of the high life. You cant help but feel a stab of pity for her when Stella McCartney throws a brick through her window and she reacts with child-like delight. (Its the only gift she has ever received from Stella). Turning sitcoms into coherent feature-length movies is a fraught business. Absolutely Fabulous doesnt even really try. In terms of narrative, the film is feeble in the extreme."Kate Moss is changing her PR!", is the slither of information that sets the plot in motion. Edina wants the job. Shes on her uppers. Her credit cards are "broken", Lulu is angry with her and the champagne is very fast running out. "Blah Blah blah blah", read most of the pages of Edinas dictated autobiography (which she is trying to flog to publisher Random Penguin) and "blah blah blah blah" just about sums up the storyline too. The comedy here is rooted in character. Saunders and Lumley are magnificent comic performers who know just how to be grotesque and ingratiating at the same time. The best moments here invariably involve Edina and Patsy together. Theres a wonderful moment early on in which theyre in the bathroom together, very hungover. Edina is fretting about her weight ("I think I am now officially fatter sideways than I am front on"), while Patsy is trying to console her. Feeling Absolutely Fabulous "I am your mirror", she tells her friend, In each other's eyes, they are indeed both gorgeous. Its just a pity others dont see them the same way. Edinas hilariously misfiring attempts at Buddhist meditation do nothing to calm her down. Ab Fab has a double-edged relationship with mindless celebrity culture. It satirises the vacuous narcissism of the supermodels, designers, and Euro-trash jet set. At the same time, the film flatters these celebs and delights in their lifestyle - one reason why theyre all so keen to appear in it. Edina and Patsy are both the butts of the joke and the ones who continually show up the idiocy and vanity around them. They cant hide their glee at being pampered in an ultra-luxurious Antibes hotel, but that doesnt stop them from stubbing out a fag in the oysters. There are moments here that make you groan and remind you of other half-baked big spin-offs from TV comedies (for example, Morecambe and Wise vehicle That Riviera Touch). Thankfully, Saunders and Lumley bring such zest to the film that its clunkier moments are easily overlooked. It certainly makes better use of its armies of celebrities than was managed in Zoolander 2. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Notes On Blindness (U) Four Stars Pete Middleton, James Spinney, 90 mins, starring: Dan Renton Skinner, Simone Kirby, John M. Hull (voice), Marilyn Hull (voice) This is a very original film about a daunting subject, namely the shock of living with blindness. Directors Middleton and Spinney blur lines between documentary, drama, and film essay as they tell the story of John Hull, a theologian who in the early 1980s lost his sight. Theyve been able to draw on Hulls own audio diary in which he chronicled his condition. His words are lip-synched by actors but, during much of Notes On Blindness, we hear his disembodied voice. Hull, who died in 2015, was an academic and teacher. The filmmakers show how painstakingly he analyses his condition and feelings about it, looking in on his own life as if he is a scientist staring at himself through a microscope. As he puts it, he had to think about blindness because "if I didnt understand it, it would defeat me." Hull is very perceptive about everything from the way his kids behave in his presence to his own fluctuating moods. He is dismayed that there is nothing for blind people to read other than detective novels and romantic fiction - and so he recruits a small army of friends to "record" books for him. He talks movingly about dreams in which he "sees" his children and also of how the "pictures" in the gallery of his mind dim over time and he ends up unable to remember what even those closest to him looked like. There are Prussian reflections about consciousness and the perception of time and place. Every time he wakes up, he reflects. It is as if he has lost his sight all over again. He waxes lyrical about the very intense experience of hearing rainfall. One of his insights is that the brain feeds on imagery. When optic stimulation ceases, the brain suffers - a cause, he speculates, of his feelings of depression and claustrophobia. Hull doesnt succumb to self-pity. Making his condition the subject of his research not only staves off despair but proves a form of catharsis and a spur to creativity. The filmmakers tell his story in a rigorous but lyrical and very moving fashion. Queen Of Earth (15) Three Stars Alex Ross Perry, 89 mins, starring: Elisabeth Moss, Katherine Waterston, Patrick Fugit, Kentucker Audley Perrys psychological drama plays like a self-conscious American variation on Ingmar Bergmans Persona. Its a study of two young women - old friends, staying together in a remote and idyllic country retreat. Catherine (Elisabeth Moss) is getting over the break-up of a relationship and is still struggling to cope with the death of her famous artist father. Over the course of the movie, she becomes increasingly strung out and hysterical. Waterston plays the friend Virginia "Ginny", whose parents own the lodge. Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Catherine and Ginny are ostensibly very close friends but that doesnt stop them from treating one another with viciousness and hostility. The dialogue here is often very barbed indeed. Catherines behaviour becomes ever more erratic and hostile the longer she stays with her friend. She is goaded by Ginnys friend and neighbour Rich (Fugit), who takes great pleasure in telling her that she is a rich, spoilt brat, making a spectacle of herself. Perry doesnt just borrow from Bergman. He uses techniques familiar from horror movies like Rosemarys Baby - eerie music, jarring close-ups, and sudden flashbacks. At times, the style is very mannered but Moss and Waterston give rich and subtle performances as the two feuding friends who provide a twisted reflection of one another. Colonia: Interview with Emma Watson The Colony (15) Two Stars Florian Gallenberger, 106 mins, starring: Emma Watson, Daniel Bruhl, Michael Nyqvist Its Chile, 1973, and the Allende regime has just been toppled by Pinochets brutal forces. Idealistic young German photographer Daniel (Bruhl) and his air stewardess girlfriend Lena (Watson) are arrested on the streets. She is released but he is driven off in a minibus and taken into captivity in the remote encampment of "Colonia Dignidad". The Colony is supposed to be a charitable mission but is, in fact, a prison camp, presided over by a brutal, Rasputin-like cult leader Paul Schafer (Nyqvist) and a lot of very scary looking female followers in starched uniforms. Lena pretends she has found God and tries to enlist in the cult in a bid to save him. The films intentions are hard to work out. It starts as if it is a political thriller but quickly turns into a cross between a horror movie and a 1950s-style Colditz-style prison escape drama. The Colony has decent enough production values but still feels silly and overwrought. Watson brings plenty of gumption to her role as the long-suffering heroine, working in the fields and listening to the preachers deranged sermons without blowing her cover as she waits for her chance to save her beloved. Daniel, meanwhile, passes himself off as simple-minded ("as dumb as they come") in order to survive. Paul Schafer was a (very unsavoury) real-life historical figure who died in 2010 and many elements of the film are drawn from historical fact. The film, though, is melodramatic in the extreme. Nyqvists Schafer speaks in crude, misogynistic language and behaves like a crazed villain in an Eli Roth torture porn film. There is a bizarre scene in which General Pinochet visits the camp - and the inmates line up to greet him dressed as if they are rural folk in 1930s Germany, meeting Hitler. The final scenes are given over to the inevitable escape attempt, handled in very noisy, very predictable fashion. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Films that actually affect social and political change are rare beasts, but Florian Gallenbergers The Colony can lay claim to such an honour. The story of the notorious German-run Colonia Dignidad a commune in Chile, where its estimated more than 30,000 boys were abused across 30 years was not unknown. But the film, which stars British actress Emma Watson as Lena, a young woman who enters the colony to rescue her kidnapped boyfriend, has sent shockwaves through Germany. With the colony founded initially in 1961 by Paul Schafer, a German lay preacher, former soldier and convicted paedophile, it was not just the level of abuse that shocked the nation. Nor the fact that Chilean military dictator Augusto Pinochet had used the commune, situated 350km south of the capital Santiago, as a torture camp and weapons store. For decades, diplomats in the German embassy in Chile had turned a blind eye to the abuses going on. Back in March, German foreign minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier held a screening of the film for diplomats and politicians. He gave a remarkable speech afterwards, reports Gallenberger when we meet in an Edinburgh hotel, in which he said, Thank you for the movie, we needed that movie as an impulse to make us question our own behaviour. A lot of people said, We have never heard a German minister ever who is in office talk critically about his own ministry like he did. As a result, Steinmeier opened up classified archives, about-turning 180 degrees, as Gallenberger puts it. Up to three weeks ago, all the archives on the subject of Colonia Dignidad and the embassy were kept a secret, even though after 30 years things have to be opened to the public. Now he decided to open all the archives, to even open the classified material which he wouldnt have to open to the public and even open them for 10 years more than he would have to. And thats amazing. Schafer, who was eventually arrested hiding out in Argentina, died in 2010 in a Chilean prison, several years after being sentenced to 33 years for sexual abuse of children. But others have gone free notably German doctor Hartmut Hopp, who fled to Germany back in 2011 after a Chilean court sentenced him to five years for 16 counts of aiding the abuse of children. While Hopp has been living a free man in Germany, two weeks ago prosecutors have looked into whether he can be forced to serve his sentence in a German prison. Many of the things that have been completely ignored for many years ... now suddenly are happening, says the director, who cannot hide his delight that his film helped initiate this. Will the German government ever officially apologise to the victims? With a lawsuit currently being brought against the German state by ex-members of Colonia Dignidad, Gallenberger thinks not. Maybe politicians are going to be cautious to admit guilt in the sense that could be used in front of court, he says. Gallenberger spent four years researching the film, beginning with several trips to Chile where he met former members of Colonia Dignidad to help unpick the monstrous personality of Schafer (played in the film by Michael Nyqvist). I think he was an abuser. His strongest character trait was to abuse. He loved to abuse be it sexually, be it mentally, be it psychologically in any way because he felt the power, he says. He had 40 years in which he refined the system of hope to brainwash the people, how to destroy their personalities, their identities. For former Harry Potter star Watson, he says, it was the chance to play the most adult character of her career. Portraying a grown-up woman who makes a brave choice albeit a fictionalised composite was the perfect opportunity to do so. Of course, she wants to show she has made a development after Harry Potter and that she is not only Hermione anymore. He tells of the time he took Watson to the colony, which still operates today by trying to attract tourists to its Bavarian-themed restaurant. Its still a strange place, he says. One colony member told them his parents were now sleeping on the bed once used by Schafer. I said, Your mother is sleeping in the bed that you and every other boy has been raped in for 30 years? He said, Yes, my parents sleep in these beds and theyre very proud to sleep in Paul Schafers bed. Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Its a chilling revelation. The thing is, if they condemn Schafer, they are condemning their own lives. They have dedicated their lives entirely to what they did there. They know hes guilty and know he did horrible things...but they havent come to terms with it. They were also traumatised. Im not defending them, but for the older ones, its impossible to see who Schafer was. To them, he was a saint, God on Earth. Maybe a viewing of The Colony is required. The Colony opens on 1 July Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Roisin OConnors email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Joseph Mount is not a nostalgic person. You might think the mastermind of Metronomy is, given that his latest album is entitled Summer 08. Certainly French journalists do, since their press release states its a nostalgic album, and resulting interview questions have been vexing him. It does a bad service to my family if I say things were better a few years ago before you were there, he says in good humour. Im not nostalgic at all. Theres something about having children where everything starts again. We have met at Field Day festival in Londonb's Victoria Park, where Metronomy headlined in 2014 and where Mount, 33, is today DJing to promote their new dance-oriented record. With each album that Metronomy release, Mount captures a moment in time. Take their Mercury-nominated 2011 album The English Riviera, which encapsulated summer in Mounts former hometown of Totnes in Devon (hed already moved to Paris to live with his girlfriend Marianne, who he met through the bands label). Summer 08 harks back to Metronomys springboard year: the year that their debut album Nights Out came out and the bands world touring adventures began. I was thinking Im going to try and write like I was writing when I was 25 years old, which is impossible. He casts his mind back to the things on his mind back then. I was trying to make dance music, and trying to make it a bit emotional, but any kind of emotional currency I had at that point was a failed relationship and jealousy of anyone else doing better than me making music. Its kind of pathetic now, you know, living in east London feeling like why doesnt everyone understand how good I am at what I do? Why arent I at the coolest place, why arent I being invited to that? He laughs. I remember when we played with Klaxons and they were staying in a Travelodge and we were staying at the YHA. Why arent we in a Travelodge? Its the petty stuff which I guess in a strange way ends up driving you to being successful. But being the hottest band of the moment doesnt usually lead to longevity. Where Klaxons' hype fizzled out, their star burning too bright too soon, Metronomy, with their biggest chart success not arriving until their fourth album (Love Letters went Top 10), continue on their steady climb. And as a concession for not touring this album, so that he can spend more time with his one-year-old and three-year-old sons, Mount agreed to sign a contract for a further album, meaning there are another two to come after Summer 08, news to delight their fans. I feel lucky every time theres a release because weve never been a massive group; theres still the potential to go mainstream coupled with the fact that we probably wont. I remember when we started and we did a tour with CSS and Justice and they were super hyped everywhere. Im sure its part of the reason why CSS lost members. It puts a lot of pressure on you. Theres probably something a little unusual with Metronomy in that it has been very gradual and hasnt really got in anyones faces so much that theyre going to get pissed off. He points out that they only stopped touring Love Letters in September (on that tour they sold out the 10,000-capacity Alexandra Palace in London), and its already impacted on family life for him and his bandmates. Bassist Gbenga Adelekan missed the birth of his child because of a Metronomy gig. I think it will be something that he always will find difficult, says Mount. And Ive already missed quite large chunks of my childrens early years. Given that Metronomy are known for taking twists and turns with every release, it will be of no surprise to fans that the new album sounds nothing like the Motown and psych-influenced Love Letters, which was made entirely in analogue, or the US West Coast-inspired pop of The English Riviera. Summer 08 is a return to the electro-pop of their debut. The English Riviera and Love Letters I stepped up in different directions to try and learn. I wanted [Love Letters] to be a breather from upbeat, fun music. So having done that I had this immediate desire to go back into making much more dancey records. Some people found Love Letters quite a difficult record and will consider this a return to form. Enjoy unlimited access to 70 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up Writing from gut instinct rather than an agenda to learn, he found it happened far more quickly, a clear benefit with two small children to look after. Being lucky enough to afford myself the time to do those last two albums, now I feel much more sure of what Im good at. I cant imagine that I will approach a record in the same way that I did The English Riviera and Love Letters again Im going to make this masterpiece! he snorts with laughter. All these records which become the best records in the world happen by mistake, and thats the magic. With The English Riviera I tried to manufacture this masterpiece. And I think on some levels it can work, but then I always feel like Nights Out, which is my favourite, wasnt as lofty as anything else. Definitely for the next few records Ill chill out. Where Love Letters was about songs and melodies, this record focuses on uptempo rhythms. He soaked up the dance music of the late 90s: Daft Punk, Fatboy Slim, The All Seeing I, Beastie Boys Hello Nasty period. These weird dance beaty records were around that were quite fun, quite interesting and very popular. Midway through our interview, Mount tunes into the rumble from a nearby tent and pauses. This is a song I wrote with Roots Manuva. And produced!" he exclaims, delighted. That was probably not long after 2008. Its a reminder of just how many stars Mount has worked with, songwriting, producing or remixing. He can now add Robyn to the list; the Swedish popstar features on Summer 08 song Hang Me Out To Dry, Mounts current favourite on the record. The pair have written a lot together, as Robyn is gearing up for another album. Metronomy can also count Kanye West, Tyler The Creator, Lady Gaga, Daft Punk and Josh Homme as fans. So its no surprise that its been suggested by his publisher that he writes hits for the likes of Rihanna. Thats not really where Im at at the moment. I want to use all of my best ideas for me. I think about people like Hudson Mohawke, Ariel Pink or Dev Hynes who have let their relationship with other musicians overshadow their own output. But I definitely will write for other people. Its inevitable, he laughs. Right now, Metronomy can do exactly what they want. Summer 08 is out 1 July Sign up to Roisin OConnors free weekly newsletter Now Hear This for the inside track on all things music Get our Now Hear This email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Roisin OConnors email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Syd Arthur have been knocking about for a good few years but are taking some promising steps towards more psychedelic rock a la Tame Impala. We're premiering the fourth track off their upcoming record Apricity - 'Sun Rays' - today on The Independent - check it out and let us know what you think. It's a super summery, nostalgia-tinged track that sounds like it's being played through an Instagram filter - very chilled and with this underlying theme of lost innocence. You can pick out influences from the likes of the brilliant White Denim, who the band supported on tour, along with a Romantic vibe that recalls Stockport up and comers, Blossoms - thse guys could be their older brothers. The band are comprised of Liam Magill, Joel Magill (bass, vocals), and Josh Magill (drums) and Raven Bush (violin, keyboards, mandolin). They formed in Canterbury in 2013 and toured on support slots with artists like The Strokes, White Denim, Sean Lennons The Ghost Of A Sabertooth Tiger, and Paul Weller, the latter of whom tipped them for success in 2014. The band says of their upcoming record Apricity: "This album is the distillation of everything we have been exploring in our music up until now." "It seems like only a few weeks back we set off to Los Angeles to record with Jason Falkner at our friend Jonathan Wilson's amazing studio in Echo Park. Recording to 2-inch analogue tape we set about recording the album in this most creative Californian space before returning to the UK for final mixing at our humble studio in Canterbury." The track-list for Apricity is as follows: Coal Mine Plane Crash In Kansas No Peace Sun Rays Into Eternity Rebel Lands Seraphim Portal Evolution Apricity Syd Arthur are touring with Jake Bugg in the US from 7 September and they play a headline show at Londons Electrowerkz on 13 July. Apracity is out 21 October - pre-order here Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A component in cannabis can fight toxic proteins which cause Alzheimers disease, research has suggested. The research has been welcomed as providing potential clues for how Alzheimers could be treated therapeutically and a manuscript of the preliminary findings have been published in the journal Aging and Mechanisms of the Disease. The scientists, from the Salk Institute in California, have found evidence that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other compounds found in cannabis can remove a toxic protein associated with Alzheimers known as amyloid beta. Paper author and postdoctoral researcher Antonio Currais explains: Inflammation within the brain is a major component of the damage associated with Alzheimer's disease, but it has always been assumed that this response was coming from immune-like cells in the brain, not the nerve cells themselves. When we were able to identify the molecular basis of the inflammatory response to amyloid beta, it became clear that THC-like compounds that the nerve cells make themselves may be involved in protecting the cells from dying. Senior author Professor David Schubert, said: Although other studies have offered evidence that cannabinoids might be neuroprotective against the symptoms of Alzheimer's, we believe our study is the first to demonstrate that cannabinoids affect both inflammation and amyloid beta accumulation in nerve cells. Health news in pictures Show all 40 1 /40 Health news in pictures Health news in pictures Coronavirus outbreak The coronavirus Covid-19 has hit the UK leading to the deaths of two people so far and prompting warnings from the Department of Health AFP via Getty Health news in pictures Thousands of emergency patients told to take taxi to hospital Thousands of 999 patients in England are being told to get a taxi to hospital, figures have showed. The number of patients outside London who were refused an ambulance rose by 83 per cent in the past year as demand for services grows Getty Health news in pictures Vape related deaths spike A vaping-related lung disease has claimed the lives of 11 people in the US in recent weeks. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty Alzheimers disease is the most common form of dementia and is a progressive condition which worsens over time. It is a physical disease which affects the brain and can cause memory loss, and difficulties with speech and other cognitive functions. More than 520,000 people are living with the disease in the UK. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A senior Barclays banker said we neither knew the direction nor the shape of what Brexit might look like. John McFarlane, the chairman of Barclays, warned the UKs decision to leave the EU could create an economic crisis as it is doubtful the country will secure its existing demands from Brussels. He called for effective leadership and the need to build a new international model following the shock of the outcome of the EU referendum. "This is a political crisis that has the potential to create an economic one," McFarlane said at a conference hosted by the CityUK, of which he is also the chairman. "Unlike the previous crisis, in this instance, the City does not bear the accountability," he added in reference to the 2008-2009 global banking crisis. McFarlane said the decision to exit the EU has hit the industry with an exogenous shock and raised uncertainty, which is the enemy of business. The UK must be clear on the outcome it wants from the future negotiations with the EU, according to the banker. This [Brexit] is a geopolitical and economic shock that requires a coordinated response. "Unfortunately it is far from certain what we might be able to secure in our discussions with the EU. It is nevertheless important for us to understand what options exist and to plan prudently for all contingencies," McFarlane said. The senior banker said we neither knew the direction nor the shape of what leaving the EU might look like. We dont know if the exit is inevitable nor the shape of an exit if it occurs. In the event of the former relationships with the EU would need to be repaired and the event of a latter a new paradigms needs to emerge, McFarlane said. In this time of uncertainty, McFarlane said we needed cool heads to prevail. Markets tends to overacts and things eventually recover but rarely do they return to previous state There remains a great deal of economic and political uncertainty and we need things to settle down and find a new equilibrium, he said. His comments came just before Boris Johnson, the former Mayor of London, unexpectedly announced he would not run to succeed David Cameron as UK Prime Minister and Conservative Party Leader. I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punch line of this speech, that having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in parliament I have concluded that person cannot be me, he said. His departure leaves Home Secretary Theresa May as the favourite to win the race. She launched her leadership campaign on Thursday morning. The pound dipped to $1.3231 on Thursday night - the lowest since 1985 - as the referendum result came into focus and traders sold sterling. But financial markets have bounced back over the past two days despite the remaining uncertainties over the economic implications of a Brexit. HSBC has today confirmed that it will keep its headquarters in London despite the shock decision for UK to leave the EU. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Show all 6 1 /6 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you More expensive foreign holidays The first practical effect of a vote to Leave is that the pound will be worth less abroad, meaning foreign holidays will cost us more nito100 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you No immediate change in immigration status The Prime Minister will have to address other immediate concerns. He is likely to reassure nationals of other EU countries living in the UK that their status is unchanged. That is what the Leave campaign has said, so, even after the Brexit negotiations are complete, those who are already in the UK would be allowed to stay Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Higher inflation A lower pound means that imports would become more expensive. This is likely to mean the return of inflation a phenomenon with which many of us are unfamiliar because prices have been stable for so long, rising at no more than about 2 per cent a year. The effect may probably not be particularly noticeable in the first few months. At first price rises would be confined to imported goods food and clothes being the most obvious but inflation has a tendency to spread and to gain its own momentum AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Interest rates might rise The trouble with inflation is that the Bank of England has a legal obligation to keep it as close to 2 per cent a year as possible. If a fall in the pound threatens to push prices up faster than this, the Bank will raise interest rates. This acts against inflation in three ways. First, it makes the pound more attractive, because deposits in pounds will earn higher interest. Second, it reduces demand by putting up the cost of borrowing, and especially by taking larger mortgage payments out of the economy. Third, it makes it more expensive for businesses to borrow to expand output Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Did somebody say recession? Mr Carney, the Treasury and a range of international economists have warned about this. Many Leave voters appear not to have believed them, or to think that they are exaggerating small, long-term effects. But there is no doubt that the Leave vote is a negative shock to the economy. This is because it changes expectations about the economys future performance. Even though Britain is not actually be leaving the EU for at least two years, companies and investors will start to move money out of Britain, or to scale back plans for expansion, because they are less confident about what would happen after 2018 AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you And we wouldnt even get our money back All this will be happening while the Prime Minister, whoever he or she is, is negotiating the terms of our future access to the EU single market. In the meantime, our trade with the EU would be unaffected, except that companies elsewhere in the EU may be less interested in buying from us or selling to us, expecting tariff barriers to go up in two years time. Whoever the Chancellor is, he or she may feel the need to bring in a new Budget Getty Images No UK bank has so far officially confirmed it is moving jobs onto the continent but many have underlined they will ultimately do what is best for their clients. Richard Gnodde, co-head of the investment banking division of Goldman Sachs, said that every outcome is possible when asked if the bank plans would involve moving some of its employees to Eurozone cities in the wake of the EU referendum. We expect there to be clear evidence of multinational operations shifting the location of their activity out of the UK given the regulatory uncertainties. Financial services are among the sectors that will be most exposed to this process, Malcolm Barr, an economist at JP Morgan, said in a note on Wednesday. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} United Overseas Bank (UOB), Singapores third-largest bank by assets, has suspended loan applications for London properties due to the uncertainty caused by UKs vote to leave the EU. The lender has said it is monitoring the market environment closely and will review it regularly to determine when it will reinstate its London property loans in the wake of Brexit. As the aftermath of the UK referendum is still unfolding and given the uncertainties, we need to ensure our customers are cautious with their London property investments, a UOB spokesperson said in an email to the Singapore Business Times. Other foreign banks said their positions remain unchanged. DBS Group Holdings, Singapores biggest lender, said it will continue to offer financing for property purchases in London but warned its customers to be cautious. Tok Geok Peng, DBS executive director, said that even if the value of overseas property rises, any gains will be eroded if the pound depreciates against the Singapore dollar. For customers interested in buying properties in London, we would advise them to assess the situation carefully before committing to their purchases as there could be potential foreign exchange and sovereign risks, he said. The Singapore dollar gained about 10 per cent against the British pound in the aftermath of the referendum. But the full impact of UKs vote to leave the EU membership on London property remains to be seen. Nearly 40 per cent of Londons 8.66 million people were not born in the UK. In areas such as Mayfair and the West End, 55 per cent of the property market is based on non-EU buyers from the Middle East, India, Russia and Africa. Some estate agents in the UK said they have been swamped with call from Chinese, Middle Eastern, Italian and Spanish buyers looking for a bargain after the pound tumbled to more than 30-year lows, making the exchange rate very favourable for foreign buyers. Russell Quirk, founder and chief executive of eMoov.co.uk, said the online agency had a very busy weekend after Brexit with a 50 per cent increase in the number of buyers from China and Singapore compared to a weekend earlier. EU referendum - in pictures Show all 18 1 /18 EU referendum - in pictures EU referendum - in pictures A woman in a wheelchair with British and European Union flags shows her support for the United Kingdom to remain in the European Union on the day of the EU Referendum in Gibraltar Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures A polling station being used in the EU referendum at Batley Town Hall in the constituency Labour MP Jo Cox PA EU referendum - in pictures People arrive to vote in the EU Referendum at the Library where British MP Jo Cox was shot and fatally wounded last week in Birstall EPA EU referendum - in pictures A man arrives to vote at a polling station for the Referendum on the European Union in north London REUTERS EU referendum - in pictures Voters queue to enter a polling station at Trinity Church in Golders Green in London Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures British Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha Cameron leave after voting in the EU Referendum at Central Methodist Hall, Westminster Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn cast his vote at a polling station at Pakeman Primary School in Islington Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures Chelsea pensioners arrive at a polling station near to the Royal Chelsea Hospital PA EU referendum - in pictures A woman wearing an "I'm In" t-shirt, promoting the official "Remain" campaign, leaves a polling station in London AFP/Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures People queuing outside a polling station on Amott Road in London PA EU referendum - in pictures Scotland's First Minister and Leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), Nicola Sturgeon and her husband Peter Murrell, react as leave after casting their votes at a polling station at Broomhouse Community Hall in east Glasgow AFP/Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures A man wearing a European themed cycling jersey leaves after voting at a polling station for the Referendum on the European Union in north London REUTERS EU referendum - in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage arrives to cast his vote at Cudham Church of England Primary School in Biggin Hill, Kent PA EU referendum - in pictures Justice Secretary and prominent 'Vote Leave' campaigner Michael Gove poses with his wife Sarah Vine after voting in the European Union referendum at their local polling station in Kensington Getty EU referendum - in pictures Nuns leave a polling station after voting in the EU Referendum in London EPA EU referendum - in pictures People arrive to cast their ballots in the EU Referendum in Gibraltar. The United Kingdom and its dependant territories are going to the polls to decide whether or not the the United Kingdom will remain in the European Union Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures A man driving a van covered in stickers urging people to vote for the United Kingdom to remain in the European Union drives outside a polling station on the day of the EU Referendum in Gibraltar Getty Images EU referendum - in pictures A sign on a gable wall in Belfast's, Loyalist Tigers Bay urging voters to leave the EU using scripture from Revelation 18:4, as voters head to the polls across the UK in a historic referendum on whether the UK should remain a member of the European Union or leave PA But Foxtons issued a profit warning on Monday, citing the referendum result as a concern. The run-up to the EU referendum led to significant uncertainty across London residential markets and the decision to leave Europe is expected to prolong that uncertainty, the company said. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Angela Eagle is expected to formally challenge Jeremy Corbyn for leadership of Labour today as the party edges closer to imploding. The former shadow business secretary joined a number of frontbenchers walking out this week after the seismic EU referendum prompted unheeded calls for Mr Corbyn to resign. Ms Eagle is the Labour MP for Wallasey and considered a soft left political figure, a position she is expected to use to present herself as a unity candidate for a party falling into a state of disarray. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Show all 6 1 /6 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you More expensive foreign holidays The first practical effect of a vote to Leave is that the pound will be worth less abroad, meaning foreign holidays will cost us more nito100 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you No immediate change in immigration status The Prime Minister will have to address other immediate concerns. He is likely to reassure nationals of other EU countries living in the UK that their status is unchanged. That is what the Leave campaign has said, so, even after the Brexit negotiations are complete, those who are already in the UK would be allowed to stay Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Higher inflation A lower pound means that imports would become more expensive. This is likely to mean the return of inflation a phenomenon with which many of us are unfamiliar because prices have been stable for so long, rising at no more than about 2 per cent a year. The effect may probably not be particularly noticeable in the first few months. At first price rises would be confined to imported goods food and clothes being the most obvious but inflation has a tendency to spread and to gain its own momentum AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Interest rates might rise The trouble with inflation is that the Bank of England has a legal obligation to keep it as close to 2 per cent a year as possible. If a fall in the pound threatens to push prices up faster than this, the Bank will raise interest rates. This acts against inflation in three ways. First, it makes the pound more attractive, because deposits in pounds will earn higher interest. Second, it reduces demand by putting up the cost of borrowing, and especially by taking larger mortgage payments out of the economy. Third, it makes it more expensive for businesses to borrow to expand output Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Did somebody say recession? Mr Carney, the Treasury and a range of international economists have warned about this. Many Leave voters appear not to have believed them, or to think that they are exaggerating small, long-term effects. But there is no doubt that the Leave vote is a negative shock to the economy. This is because it changes expectations about the economys future performance. Even though Britain is not actually be leaving the EU for at least two years, companies and investors will start to move money out of Britain, or to scale back plans for expansion, because they are less confident about what would happen after 2018 AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you And we wouldnt even get our money back All this will be happening while the Prime Minister, whoever he or she is, is negotiating the terms of our future access to the EU single market. In the meantime, our trade with the EU would be unaffected, except that companies elsewhere in the EU may be less interested in buying from us or selling to us, expecting tariff barriers to go up in two years time. Whoever the Chancellor is, he or she may feel the need to bring in a new Budget Getty Images Background Born in Bridlington and hailing from a working-class family, Ms Eagle has a twin sister, Maria, the MP for Garston and Halewood who resigned from her position as the shadow culture secretary three days ago. Ms Eagle is the oldest twin by 15 minutes and a former under-18s British chess champion. They both attended Oxford where Ms Eagle read PPE. Their mother died when they were 25. In interviews, Ms Eagle has praised her mothers determination to ensure her daughters had the opportunities presented by an education she was denied. Maria Eagle (PA) She was a very working class woman who had passed the 11-plus, but her family could not afford the uniform, Ms Eagle told The Telegraph. "She never fitted in at the grammar school, so she left at 14 to work in a biscuit factory. She was determined we wouldnt make the mistakes that she did. She is openly gay and married her partner Maria Exall, a BT engineer, in a civil ceremony in 2008. Ms Eagle said she came out to her then-boss John Prescott in 1997 before speaking publically about her sexuality so she could move in with her girlfriend. He said: Tell me something I dont know, love and asked if he could give me a hug. Political ambitions Ms Eagle came fourth in the contest for deputy leader of the party last year. She has served in Tony Blair and Gordon Brown administrations and in Ed Milibands shadow cabinet. She was famously told by David Cameron to calm down dear during Prime Ministers Questions. Mr Cameron later apologised after his comment ignited a sexism row but Ms Eagle was not about to just let him forget it. Her campaign posters for the deputy leader contest used Mr Camerons infamous "calm down dear" retort. Resignation Ms Eagles resignation letter joined a flurry of missives from MPs telling Mr Corbyn why they believe he is not the right person to lead the Labour party. With deep regret, and after nine months of trying to make it work, I have today resigned from the Shadow Cabinet, she began on Twitter, posting a picture of it underneath. I was devastated by the result of the EU referendum. Too many of our supporters were taken in by right-wing arguments and I believe this happened, in part, because under your leadership the case to remain in the EU was made with half-hearted ambivalence rather than full-throated clarity. While I respect the decision of the electorate, it is the communities we were both elected to serve that have been severely let down. They will be the first to suffer the economic consequences of this decision. They now face the prospect of a much more right-wing Tory Prime Minister and an advancing threat from UKIP in our heartlands which must be vigorously countered. In a tearful radio interview, Ms Eagle praised Mr Corbyn as honourable but called on him to recognise his failures and resign. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Robert Harris has warned Jeremy Corbyn can only be ousted as leader of Labour if people join the party. Harris, a former BBC journalist and author of novels such as Enigma and Archangel, issued a scathing takedown of Mr Corbyns ability to lead Labour in a piece urging others to fight for his removal from the helm of the party before it is too late. Mr Corbyn is facing an unprecedented leadership challenge as the Labour party struggles to recover from the bruising Brexit vote and what many have perceived as half-hearted efforts on his part to encourage people to vote to stay in the UK. He criticised Mr Corbyns campaigning efforts ahead of the referendum, which he said culminated in what must rank as the worst rallying cry in political history, when he awarded the EU seven, maybe seven and half out of ten? In an open letter published by The Mirror, Harris called for Labour supporters to "not let the party go down without a fight" by signing up as members in droves, as many members of the public did to elect Mr Corbyn. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Show all 6 1 /6 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you More expensive foreign holidays The first practical effect of a vote to Leave is that the pound will be worth less abroad, meaning foreign holidays will cost us more nito100 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you No immediate change in immigration status The Prime Minister will have to address other immediate concerns. He is likely to reassure nationals of other EU countries living in the UK that their status is unchanged. That is what the Leave campaign has said, so, even after the Brexit negotiations are complete, those who are already in the UK would be allowed to stay Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Higher inflation A lower pound means that imports would become more expensive. This is likely to mean the return of inflation a phenomenon with which many of us are unfamiliar because prices have been stable for so long, rising at no more than about 2 per cent a year. The effect may probably not be particularly noticeable in the first few months. At first price rises would be confined to imported goods food and clothes being the most obvious but inflation has a tendency to spread and to gain its own momentum AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Interest rates might rise The trouble with inflation is that the Bank of England has a legal obligation to keep it as close to 2 per cent a year as possible. If a fall in the pound threatens to push prices up faster than this, the Bank will raise interest rates. This acts against inflation in three ways. First, it makes the pound more attractive, because deposits in pounds will earn higher interest. Second, it reduces demand by putting up the cost of borrowing, and especially by taking larger mortgage payments out of the economy. Third, it makes it more expensive for businesses to borrow to expand output Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Did somebody say recession? Mr Carney, the Treasury and a range of international economists have warned about this. Many Leave voters appear not to have believed them, or to think that they are exaggerating small, long-term effects. But there is no doubt that the Leave vote is a negative shock to the economy. This is because it changes expectations about the economys future performance. Even though Britain is not actually be leaving the EU for at least two years, companies and investors will start to move money out of Britain, or to scale back plans for expansion, because they are less confident about what would happen after 2018 AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you And we wouldnt even get our money back All this will be happening while the Prime Minister, whoever he or she is, is negotiating the terms of our future access to the EU single market. In the meantime, our trade with the EU would be unaffected, except that companies elsewhere in the EU may be less interested in buying from us or selling to us, expecting tariff barriers to go up in two years time. Whoever the Chancellor is, he or she may feel the need to bring in a new Budget Getty Images It is time to give up the comfortable role of spectator and do the one thing that is open to all of us: rejoin the Labour Party in the hope that it may once again be an electable vehicle of social justice," writes Harris. "After all, it was mass-recruitment last summer amongst previously non-political people that helped bring Corbyn the leadership. It is only by a second wave of mass-recruitment this summer that he can be removed. Flash Turkey announced a day of national mourning on Wednesday for the 41 lives lost the night before during deadly suicide bombing attacks on Istanbul's Ataturk Airport, one of the busiest in Europe. Two passengers hug each other at Istanbul's Ataturk airport in Turkey on June 29, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] Across the country flags are flowing at half-mast for the dead, among them 12 foreign nationals from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Tunisia, Iran, Ukraine, Jordan and Uzbekistan. A statement released by the Istanbul governor's office also said that of the 239 wounded in the attacks, 109 have been discharged from hospital. "Everyone is shocked over such a big terror incident," said German journalist Stephen Richter, who arrived in Istanbul on Wednesday to cover the tragedy. Turkish media reported that Turkey's intelligence units sent a warning letter to related state institutions about potential attacks by the Islamic State (IS) militants nearly 20 days ago. Hande Firat, CNNTurk's representative in Ankara, said on a live broadcast that Ataturk Airport was listed as a potential target in the letter. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim blamed the IS for the atrocity, though he said efforts were continuing to identify the perpetrators. On Wednesday afternoon, the counterterrorism teams launched an operation against two addresses in Istanbul over the attacks and seized coded organizational documents, the Sabah daily reported. Meanwhile, the public prosecutor's office in Istanbul's district of Bakirkoy revealed that three suicide bombers arrived at Ataturk Airport by the same taxi. Two started shooting at the crowd with a Kalashnikov and a Glock rifle after forcing through the X-ray security check point at the entrance of the international terminal, while the third one went upstairs, the Hurriyet daily said. Before they entered, they had clashes with security officials and got wounded, the daily added. The trio detonated their explosives, and the explosions left deep scars at the airport, most visibly three large areas of receded ceiling and broken glass walls both inside and outside the arrivals section of the international terminal. Airport employees on the morning shift were on the scene examining the damages. Some lost their colleagues and declined to make comments to reporters. The airport resumed business on Wednesday morning following hours of mess and chaos and the suspension of all flights. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} As Westminster descends into chaos and political parties reel from the vote to leave the EU, Nicola Sturgeon has emerged as one of the few political leaders with a considered Brexit strategy. The Scottish First Minister has made it clear she will do all she can to keep Scotland in the EU and has called for a second referendum on Scottish independence after two-thirds of Scots voted to remain in last weeks divisive vote. Meeting with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday evening, Ms Sturgeon discussed her plans for Scotland to remain. While the process remains in its early stages, Ms Sturgeon has vowed to keep Scotland in the European Union. Ms Sturgeon, 45, is rapidly cementing her position as one of the most powerful women in British politics. As the first female First Minister of Scotland, she led the Scottish National Party to a triumphant victory in Scotland in the 2015 general election. Her personal popularity ratings are consistently high and she was a standout star of the general election leadership debates. Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Show all 11 1 /11 Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Brexit XI: Who would miss out? David de Gea (Spain) Selected for the PFA Team of the Year and standout keeper of the year, De Gea has been one of Manchester Uniteds most consistent players throughout the past season and helped his side avoid embarrassment on multiple occasions. After an excellent season between the sticks, he was finally given the recognition he deserves and picked ahead of Iker Casillas for Spains Euro 2016 campaign. United would have struggled even more this season were it not for him. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Hector Bellerin (Spain) Another player to have made it into the PFA Team of the Year, Bellerin has impressed for Arsenal throughout the entirety of the season with his electric speed and positional intelligence. His form subsequently caught the attention of Barcelona who are keen to re-sign the 21-year-old having recently lost veteran Dani Alves. Arsenals best defender this season and a player they could not have done without. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Kurt Zouma (France) Zouma had already earned a name for himself as one of the Premier Leagues up and coming defenders before his season was cut disappointingly short after rupturing his ACL. The fact the 20-year-old was picked ahead of Cahill and Terry on a number of occasions bares testament to his ability. Having only played for France one, Zouma is another player who would not have been allowed an automatic work visa were it not for the EU. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Laurent Koscielny (France) After struggling with injury he missed the first 14 games of the season Koscielny returned to establish himself as one of Arsenals most important players. A quiet authority at the back and a master interceptor, his pace and alertness has proved essential in mopping up trouble behind the less mobile Mertesacker. His absence at the start of the season just showed how central he is to the Arsenal team. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Gael Clichy (France) Yet another player to have been hindered by injury but Clichy eventually reclaimed his starting position above Aleksandar Kolarov. Despite lacking the consistency, Clichy has showed what hes capable of up and down the left flank. Like other Frenchmen in this time, Clichys transfer to the Premier League was facilitated by Britains membership in the EU. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? NGolo Kante (France) Kante has been an absolute sensation for Leicester City this year and was an essential part of their Premier League campaign. An engine in midfield and one of the leagues most disruptive central midfielders, he deservedly earned a place in the PFA Team of the Year. Having been compared to Premier League greats such as Claude Makelele, Kante is a play Leicester could not have done without. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Francis Coquelin (France) Coquelin's move to Arsenal and the Premier League could have been hindered were it not for the EU. Coquelin has impressed for the Gunners and formed a promising partnership with Mohamed Elneny towards the end of the season. Hes developed as a disruptive central player and compliments Elneny well, providing him with the cover to drift and drive forward. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Morgan Schneiderlin (France) Southampton fans will certainly be grateful that they were able to sign the Frenchman back in 2008 after he helped lead the club to Premier League football. Although his debut season for Manchester United has left many fans questioning his 25m fee, the 28-year-old more than proved what hes capable of during his time at St Marys. If given the chance to shine under Mourinho, its only a matter of time before he re-finds his previous form. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Dimitri Payet (France) Payet has taken the Premier League by storm. One of the most technically gifted players in the League, his performances have revitalised West Ham who enjoyed one of their best seasons to date. Hes recreated his class at Euro 2016 and proved his worth with the potential goal of the tournament in Frances game against Romania. A Premier League without Dimitri Payet just isnt worth thinking about. Getty Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Romelu Lukaku (Belgium) Evertons main man, Romelu Lukaku has enjoyed an impressive season having scored 18 goals for the Toffees. His strength and pace has caused no end of trouble for defenders across the past year and his performances look to have earned him a potential return to Stamford Bridge following the disappointment of Evertons own season. A power spearhead to the Brexit XI. Brexit XI: Who would miss out? Anthony Martial (France) One of Manchester Uniteds few redeeming players in a team that has woefully underperformed this season. Hes proved a handful for defenders with his penetrative running and has been Uniteds most reliable attacking threat having bagged himself 11 goals this year. The last player in our team whose move to Britain was made possible thanks to the EU. Getty Humble beginnings Born in 1970 in Irvine in Ayrshire, Ms Sturgeon is the eldest of three daughters. Her mother was a dental nurse and her father electrician. A fairly standard, normal, working-class family is how she has described her upbringing. She went on to study at the University of Glasgow where she read Law and became an active member of the Glasgow University Scottish Nationalist Association. After this foray into student politics, she then went on to train as a solicitor, working for two firms in Glasgow. Young politico Ms Sturgeon was the Youth Affairs Vice Convener and Publicity Vice Convener for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. At the age of 16 she joined the Scottish National Party and within a few years she became the youngest parliamentary candidate in Scotland at the 1992 election - at the age of 21 - but failed to win the seat. A month later she failed to win Irvine North in the district council elections and was unsuccessful again in 1994 and 1995 when she fought for seats on Strathclyde Regional and Glasgow City councils. In 1997, she was selected to fight Glasgow Govan for the SNP in the general election. Although she failed to win the seat, she was placed first in the SNP's regional list for the Glasgow region and was there afterwards elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament. Within a few years she had become Deputy Leader - second in command to Alex Salmond. Unwavering campaigner Ms Sturgeon has emerged as a staunch campaigner for Scottish independence, the scrapping of Trident and against austerity. She is also a feminist and has pushed for the SNP to introduce quota measures such as all-women shortlists. She has publicly supported the Women 50:50 campaign which lobbies for at least 50 per cent representation of women in Parliament. In her own words, the time has come for quotas of women in politics and beyond because the pace of change, without that, is too slow. Ms Sturgeon has previously said she was inspired by Margaret Thatcher. In her own words: Thatcher was the motivation for my entire political career. I hated everything she stood for. She cites Hilary Clinton as a key role model. Nicola Sturgeon warns Scottish parliament could block Brexit Duran Duran fan Ms Sturgeon hasn't become the most powerful woman in British politics by accident. She has worked industriously, with civil servants commending her for putting in the hours. She lives in Glasgow with her husband Peter Murrell, the SNP's chief executive. They have been together and married in 2010 and have no children. On the rare occasions Ms Sturgeon takes a break from politics, she enjoys watching Borgen, the Danish political drama which follows a female PM running a coalition government against the odds. She once interviewed the star of Borgen for STVs Scotland Tonight show. She is also a massive fan of eighties pop and has Duran Duran, Wham!, and Culture Club posters on her wall. As she told GQ: "I am a child of the Eighties". When Ms Sturgeon isn't running Scotland, her drink of choice is gin and tonic and red wine but she only drinks "moderately and responsibly". Sign up for a full digest of all the best opinions of the week in our Voices Dispatches email Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Voices Dispatches email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} It may not yet be enough to convince a jury, but mounting evidence suggests ancestors of modern humans wiped out the world's only known population of hobbits. A race of 3.5ft tall humans - known as hobbits - were using stone tools on the Indonesian island of Flores 50,000 years ago but then mysteriously vanished. Scientists now believe modern Homo sapiens humans were using fire in the hobbits' cave at least 41,000 years ago. The discovery of hearths in the Liang Bua cave indicates that hobbits and modern humans both occupied the site within 11,000 years of each other. Researchers are searching for more evidence that will remove any remaining alibi modern humans might have. If the two species came together at the same place and time it could explain the hobbits' extinction. An international team of scientists uncovered the remains of a previously unknown species of small-statured human, Homo floresiensis, in Liang Bua cave in 2003. Known as hobbits after the characters invented by Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkein, the creatures were originally thought to have lived as recently as 12,000 years ago. Later experts dated the bones at between 190,000 and 60,000-years-old, while the most recent hobbit stone tools were thought to be 50,000 years old. Although they used stone tools, there is no evidence that the hobbits had mastered fire. The hearth remains found in the cave were most likely left by modern humans, scientists said. Lead researcher Dr Mike Morley, from the University of Wollongong in Australia, said: We now know that the hobbits only survived until around 50,000 years ago at Liang Bua. We also know that modern humans arrived in Southeast Asia and Australia at least 50,000 years ago, and most likely quite a bit earlier. This new evidence, which is some of the earliest evidence of modern human activity in south-east Asia, narrows the gap between the two hominin species at the site. Fossilised remains of even smaller ancestral hobbits who lived on Flores 700,000 years ago have further persuaded experts that the creatures really were a distinct human species. They suggest that hobbits evolved from an earlier type of human, Homo erectus, that became marooned on Flores long ago. The new findings are published in the Journal of Archaeological Science. PA For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A record number of suspected female terrorists have been arrested in the UK in the past year, government figures have shown. The official figures, released by the Home Office, show 36 female terror suspects were arrested in the 12-month period prior to March. This amounts to 14 per cent of all arrests on terrorism charges during the time frame. In the previous year, 35 women were arrested on the same charges. Since 2011, the number of arrests has increased steadily from 10 women. However, while the number of suspected female terrorists has increased, there has been an overall decrease in the number of terrorism-related arrests. Between March 2015 and March 2016, there were 255 terrorism-related arrests, compared to 301 last year. A number of high profile cases recently have involved female terror suspects. Last month, 34-year-old Northern Irish woman Lorna Moore was found guilty of plotting to travel to Syria along with her three children to fight with her jihadist husband who was based there. In February, young mother Tareena Shakil was jailed for six years after she was pictured posing with Isis paraphernalia and was found planning to travel abroad with her toddler son to support the Caliphate. Samantha Lewthwaite, known as the White Widow, originates from Banbridge in Northern Ireland and remains at large despite international police efforts. She is one of the worlds most wanted terrorists and was once married to 7/7 bomber Germaine Lindsay. Earlier this year, she was reportedly spotted checking into a hotel near Durham. However, police were unable to confirm sightings. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 9 September 2022 King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort wave after viewing floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace Getty UK news in pictures 8 September 2022 A screen commemorating Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in Piccadilly Circus, London Britain EPA UK news in pictures 7 September 2022 Police officers stand guard after Animal Rebellion activists threw paint on the walls and road outside the Houses of Parliament in protest, in London, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 6 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral, Scotland, where she invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA Three schoolgirls from east London successfully travelled to Syria last year and are believed to be still living in the country, having escaped detection by authorities. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Hundreds of letters sent by British First World War soldiers have been released to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, giving insight into many young mens last days on the front line. The handwritten messages were written on the eve of or during the battle in northern France in which almost 500,000 British Army soldiers were killed, with one letter talking of giving the Germans consummate hell and another asking for some safety razor blades as soon as poss. A significant proportion of the letters were the soldiers final messages to loved ones back home, and 20-year-old private Albert Baker said farewell to his parents by asking for his prized stamp collection to be preserved for his younger brother. Mr Bakers letter continued: I am writing this whilst in billets, some three miles behind the Line, not because I feel downhearted at all but because there have been so many killed or mortally wounded near me, and who knows but that it might be my turn next. I must thank you again for the way you have brought me up and looked after me, asking you to remember me to all my old friends, particularly Art and Rodney. Who knows but that we may meet again in another sphere, when I shall be able to thank you personally for everything? Like many of his comrades, Mr Baker died on the front line at the Somme, after being shot in the lung on September 14. The Imperial War Museum revealed the letters from its archive as part of a series of events and exhibitions to mark one hundred years since the devastating conflict. In another, Lieutenant Eric Heaton wrote: "I cannot tell if it is God's will that I shall come through, but if I fall in battle then I have no regrets save for my loved one I leave behind. "My greatest concern is that I may have the courage and determination neccessary to leave my platoon well. My life has been full of faults but I have tried at all times to live as a man and thus follow the example of my father. "This life abroad has taught me many things chiefly the fine character of the British race to put up with hardship with wonderful cheerfulness." I shall rest content with the knowledge that I have done my duty and one cant do moreLt Percy Boswell
On the eve of the battle Lt Percy Boswell of the Yorkshire Light Infantry wrote to his father for the final time, saying: The Hun is going to get consummate hell just in this quarter and we are going over the top tomorrow when I hope to spend a few merry hours in chasing the Bosch all over the place. I am absolutely certain that I shall get through all right, but in case the unexpected happens I shall rest content with the knowledge that I have done my duty and one cant do more. Lt Boswell went on to be killed within the first hour of the battle on July 1 1916. Battle of the Somme - in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Battle of the Somme - in pictures Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 British troops go over the top of the trenches during the Battle of the Somme Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 The 39th Siege Battery artillery in action in the Fricourt-Mametz Valley Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 Gas-masked men of the British Machine Gun Corps with a Vickers machine gun during the battle of the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 German troops outside their dug outs on the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 French soldiers pass through a bombed out area as they advance on the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 A French 75cm gun mounted for aircraft use on the Somme during World War I Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 Canadian troops prepare for the charge over the top at the Battle of the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 A heavy shell exploding during the Battle of the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 A dug-out at the battlefront on the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 Situated in the town of Albert, France, is the famous 'Golden Virgin' leaning over the spire of the church in the centre of the town, where most of the British troops were based prior to the Battle of the Somme Getty Images Private John Shaw was left partially paralysed after being shot through the hip and wrote a message to his mother in the midst of the battle on October 12, after crawling back to the British trenches. He wrote: We went over the top on Sunday 8th and I got wounded. I managed to crawl back to our lines and worse luck here I am. Been here 4 days today and dying for a drink. Someone run into us the other day and promised to get us out of it. But we are still here never even brought us any water. I have been shot through the hip and cannot use my right leg. Properly knock up. Pity when one gets a blighty one too, after so long. Private Shaw died six days later in a hospital in Rouen. In all more, than one million men were wounded or killed during the Battle of the Somme, making it one of the bloodiest battles in human history. Anthony Richards, head of documents at the Imperial War Museum, told the Independent: "These letters are so fascinating because they give such good insight into the soldiers' reasons for fighting, and many of them very clearly express their pride in fighting and dying for their country. "We have received many documents recently - letters, diaries, love notes - which families have treasured for years and years, and now want to share with the public for the centenary." A national two-minute silence will be held on Friday morning to mark the first day of the battle, while a memorial service will be held at Thiepval Memorial near the battlefield. The Imperial War Museum will be open until midnight on Thursday with a free exhibition of film, music and theatre to honour the Somme fighters. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The country will hold a two-minute silence to honour those who fought in the Battle of the Somme 100 years on, Prime Minister David Cameron said. The Queen and senior royals will lead the nation in remembrance to mark the centenary, which falls on Friday. Events across the UK and in France will commemorate the start of the battle on July 1 1916, a day that became the bloodiest in British military history with almost 20,000 dead. Mr Cameron told MPs during Prime Minister's Questions: "This week marks the centenary of the Battle of the Somme. "There will be a national two-minute silence on Friday morning. I will be attending a service at the Thiepval Memorial near the battlefield, and it's right that the whole country pauses to remember the sacrifices of all those who fought and lost their lives in that conflict." Battle of the Somme - in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Battle of the Somme - in pictures Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 British troops go over the top of the trenches during the Battle of the Somme Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 The 39th Siege Battery artillery in action in the Fricourt-Mametz Valley Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 Gas-masked men of the British Machine Gun Corps with a Vickers machine gun during the battle of the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 German troops outside their dug outs on the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 French soldiers pass through a bombed out area as they advance on the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 A French 75cm gun mounted for aircraft use on the Somme during World War I Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 Canadian troops prepare for the charge over the top at the Battle of the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 A heavy shell exploding during the Battle of the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 A dug-out at the battlefront on the Somme Getty Images Battle of the Somme - in pictures 1916 Situated in the town of Albert, France, is the famous 'Golden Virgin' leaning over the spire of the church in the centre of the town, where most of the British troops were based prior to the Battle of the Somme Getty Images By the end of the four-month battle in northern France, more than a million soldiers had been killed and wounded on both sides of the fighting. The First World War would drag on for another two years. At Westminster Abbey in London, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will join the congregation for an evening vigil on Thursday, the eve of the anniversary of the start of the battle. Other overnight events will take place in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry will attend evening events at the Thiepval Memorial in France, where 70,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers with no known grave are commemorated. The events include a climb to the top of the huge, newly renovated structure, which will be lit for the first time, to view the killing fields. There is to be a military vigil and a meeting with representatives of nations involved in the battle. On Friday they will be joined by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall and 10,000 members of the public, including hundreds of schoolchildren, chosen by ballot, for a service of commemoration. Charles and Camilla will then attend ceremonies for Northern Irish and Canadian victims of the battle at the nearby Ulster Tower and Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, respectively. Camilla will also lay a wreath at the grave of her great-uncle, Captain Harry Cubitt, who was killed on the Somme in September 1916 while serving with the Coldstream Guards. He was the eldest, and the first, to die of three brothers killed serving on the Western Front. Beginning on July 1 1916, the Battle of the Somme was intended to achieve a decisive victory for the British and French against Germany's forces. The British Army was forced to play a larger than intended role after the German attack on the French at Verdun in February 1916. The first day of the Battle of the Somme became the bloodiest in British military history with more than 57,000 casualties recorded - of these 19,240 were fatalities. Among the worst hit were the Pals battalions, volunteer units of limited fighting experience. Many were told to walk slowly across no man's land, resulting in massive numbers of dead as they headed straight into German machine gun fire. The 2,000 men of the 1st and 2nd Bradford Pals, both part of the West Yorkshire Regiment, suffered 1,770 casualties in the first hour of the offensive as they attacked the heavily fortified village of Serre. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Years of austerity and the end of a golden age of upward social mobility seen in later 20th century Britain may have been a major factor in the vote to Brexit, according to the authors of a major new report into social attitudes. The latest annual British Social Attitudes Survey found that 60 per cent of people in the UK now describe themselves as working class the same level as in 1983 and concludes that contrary to the claim of many, we are clearly not all middle class now. The 2015 report by NatCen Social Research found the years of austerity since the financial crash of 2008 have entrenched the class divide and hardened attitudes on a range of political subjects, including possible anti-establishment feelings towards bureaucracy and government and also immigration. The research was carried out between July and November last year, but academics believe their findings are deeply relevant to the Brexit poll as many observers suspect class was a significant driving force in the decision to vote leave. Miranda Phillips, one of the directors of the report, told The Independent their findings painted a picture of Britain prior to the intensity and fractures of the referendum debate, and showed sharp divides in terms of class were already there. Miranda Phillips, research director at NatCen Social Research What we found chimed with some of the [post referendum] discussions on social division, she said. People find it harder to move between classes than they used to feel and people with working class identity are more likely to feel that. On immigration, we know how people feel about their class correlates to how they feel about immigration. Even if theyre in a managerial of professional job, if they feel working class they are more likely to be anti-immigrant in their views and that was one of the key factors in the referendum and that may help to explain some of the divisions. The researchers found that even where people had what they considered middle class jobs, they were still frequently likely to identify themselves as working class depending on their educational and parental background. In fact, half of those in professional and managerial occupations said they were working class, according to the report. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you The report said: "The golden age of upward social mobility in the second half of the 20th century saw many people from working class backgrounds end up in middle class jobs. However, that transformation of the occupational structure has now very much slowed, if not stalled completely." The academics said the implications of these findings were significant for politics and policy-making, not just in how they surfaced during the EU referendum, but also for future decisions around public spending. Whereas there was high approval for austerity at the time of the 2008 financial crisis, seven years later support for higher taxes and increased public spending is now back to pre-crash levels at 45 per cent, the reports authors found. But although the vast majority believed the NHS faces a funding crisis, the question of who else should be the recipients of extra spending produced differing answers. While a majority are opposed to welfare cuts in general, they also believe there should be tougher action on the unemployed. Some 45 per cent want a cut in benefit for the unemployed, while more than 80 per cent believe those out of work and taking benefits should be made to take a job even if unsuitable. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Show all 6 1 /6 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you More expensive foreign holidays The first practical effect of a vote to Leave is that the pound will be worth less abroad, meaning foreign holidays will cost us more nito100 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you No immediate change in immigration status The Prime Minister will have to address other immediate concerns. He is likely to reassure nationals of other EU countries living in the UK that their status is unchanged. That is what the Leave campaign has said, so, even after the Brexit negotiations are complete, those who are already in the UK would be allowed to stay Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Higher inflation A lower pound means that imports would become more expensive. This is likely to mean the return of inflation a phenomenon with which many of us are unfamiliar because prices have been stable for so long, rising at no more than about 2 per cent a year. The effect may probably not be particularly noticeable in the first few months. At first price rises would be confined to imported goods food and clothes being the most obvious but inflation has a tendency to spread and to gain its own momentum AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Interest rates might rise The trouble with inflation is that the Bank of England has a legal obligation to keep it as close to 2 per cent a year as possible. If a fall in the pound threatens to push prices up faster than this, the Bank will raise interest rates. This acts against inflation in three ways. First, it makes the pound more attractive, because deposits in pounds will earn higher interest. Second, it reduces demand by putting up the cost of borrowing, and especially by taking larger mortgage payments out of the economy. Third, it makes it more expensive for businesses to borrow to expand output Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Did somebody say recession? Mr Carney, the Treasury and a range of international economists have warned about this. Many Leave voters appear not to have believed them, or to think that they are exaggerating small, long-term effects. But there is no doubt that the Leave vote is a negative shock to the economy. This is because it changes expectations about the economys future performance. Even though Britain is not actually be leaving the EU for at least two years, companies and investors will start to move money out of Britain, or to scale back plans for expansion, because they are less confident about what would happen after 2018 AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you And we wouldnt even get our money back All this will be happening while the Prime Minister, whoever he or she is, is negotiating the terms of our future access to the EU single market. In the meantime, our trade with the EU would be unaffected, except that companies elsewhere in the EU may be less interested in buying from us or selling to us, expecting tariff barriers to go up in two years time. Whoever the Chancellor is, he or she may feel the need to bring in a new Budget Getty Images On the question of the spare room subsidy, or so-called Bedroom Tax, attitudes were softer: 55 per cent of people oppose the Tory policy, although 48 per cent of 18-24 year olds back it. The survey of more than 4,000 people also suggests workers in Britain are more stressed in their jobs than before at 37 per cent. However, the researchers also found in many cases they are in jobs offering more flexibility and freedom. The reports authors, who include polling expert Professor John Curtice, also examined attitudes towards politics. With the fieldwork carried out in the months after the 2015 general election, they found a large drop in support for the idea of coalition government. While in 2010, at the outset of the Conservative/Lib Dem Government, 40 per cent preferred a coalition form of government. Thereafter, the mood soon swung strongly against, the report noted. The experience of a real coalition apparently served to change many a voters mind, a change that many attribute to the Liberal Democrats decisionto reverse their previous opposition to university tuition fees. However, the report also found a confusing attitude towards proportional representation, a voting system that would entail more coalition governments. They said that while the referendum on changing the voting system in 2011 had a 68 per cent to 32 per cent vote against, their survey suggested support was on the up again. The researchers found a record 45 per cent in favour of ditching the first past the post system, although 48 per cent wanted to retain it. Voters views on the subject do not appear to be deeply rooted, [suggesting] it would not necessarily easy to win support for change in any further referendum. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Further Istanbul-style airport attacks are likely being plotted by Isis and would not be hard to carry out as making suicide vests is not that difficult, the CIA director has said. John Brennan made the comments in the aftermath of the bombings on Ataturk airport, which killed 41 people and injured more than 200 more. Extremist jihadi group Isis has been blamed by the Turkish government. You look at what happened in the Turkish airport, these were suicide vests, Mr Brennan told Yahoo News. Its not that difficult to actually construct and fabricate a suicide vest so if you have a determined enemy and individuals who are not concerned about escape, that they are going into it with a sense that they are going to die, that really does complicate your strategy in terms of preventing attacks. Earlier this year, images emerged online of what appeared to be a potential suicide bomber in Iraq being apprehended by security services. The device is strapped to his body using just cling film. The nature of suicide attacks means they are very difficult and dangerous to prevent and have confounded security services for years. Isis are also likely to plan a similar attack in the US, Mr Brennan said. Id be surprised if Daesh is not trying to carry out that kind of attack in the United States, he said. I am worried from the standpoint of an intelligence professional who looks at the capabilities of Daesh and their determination to kill as many as people as possible and to carry out attacks abroad. Mr Brennan has also expressed concern over the potential impact of Brexit on security and stability. Of all the crises the EU has faced in recent years, the UK vote to leave the EU may well be its greatest challenge, he told an audience in Washington, the Guardian reported. Brexit is pushing the EU into a period of introspection that will pervade virtually everything the EU does in the coming weeks, months and even years ahead. Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Show all 20 1 /20 Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A mother of victims reacts outside a forensic medicine building close to Istanbul's airport AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Broken windows are pictured at the attacks and explosions site in Ataturk airport's international arrivals terminal AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Bullet impacts are pictured at Ataturk airport AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Police officers patrol at Istanbul Ataturk airport Reuters Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Workers clean the debris from the blasts at Istanbul Ataturk airport Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A wounded girl from the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack is transported to the Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers embrace outside Ataturk airport`s main entrance in Istanbul AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Medics carry wounded people to a hospital after a suicide bomb attack at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul EPA Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Relatives of the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack victims wait outside Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A Saudi tourist who survived the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack waits for his wounded mother outside the Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A Turkish riot police officer patrols Ataturk airport`s main entrance in Istanbul Ozane Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers wait at Ataturk airport`s main enterance in Istanbu, after two explosions followed by gunfire hit Turkey's largest airport Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Forensic police work the explosion site at Ataturk airport Ozane Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers leave Istanbul Ataturk, after a suicide bomb attack Getty Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Armed security man escorts people from a car park at Istanbul Ataturk airport REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Armed security walks at Istanbul Ataturk airport Murad Sezer/REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Ambulance cars arrive at Istanbul Ataturk airport Osman Orsal/REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul An ambulance arrives at the Ataturk airport REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul The weapons used in the attack REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers leave Istanbul Ataturk, after a suicide bomb attack Getty He said this reflection could come at the expense of collaboration on security. The vote to leave represented a major change in the global structure which was defined during the Cold War, Mr Brennan said. Despite this, he insisted that a good intelligence relationship with Britain could be maintained. He said: I spoke to my counterpart in London early Monday morning and we reaffirmed to one another that the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our services are only destined to grow stronger in the years ahead. These ties are and will always be essential to our collective security. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Parents are being given cardboard boxes for their babies in an attempt by hospitals to help prevent cot death. Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital in west London is distributing small boxes fitted with foam mattresses to new families as part of a strategy to reduce the UKs high infant mortality rate. Popular in Finland, where they have been credited with lowering infant mortality rates from 65 per 1000 in 1938, to 2.3 in 2015, the so-called baby boxes are said to prevent babies from rolling onto their stomach, which is believed to increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Dr Karen Joash, consultant obstetrician at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, said in a statement: "For too many years the UK has fallen behind its European counterparts when it comes to reducing infant mortality." She added: "These boxes and the education resources that sit alongside them have been proven to help reduce the infant mortality rate in Finland and we hope that these results could be replicated in the UK." Britain is the 22nd highest out of 50 European countries in terms of infant mortality rates, with 4.19 deaths per 1,000 births, according to the World Bank. Almost 300 babies die each year in Britain as a result of SIDS. The hospital will distribute 800 baby boxes on a first come, first served basis. Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 1) Angela Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor Axel Schmidt/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 2) Beverley Actress and singer Beverly Knight Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 3) Carol Former 'Countdown' presenter Carol Vorderman Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 4) Debra Former 'Will & Grace' actress Debra Messing Jason Merritt/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 5) Diane Fashion designer and inventor of the wrap dress Diane Von Furstenberg Michael Buckner/Getty Images for Diane Von Furstenberg Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 1) Bertrand The late philosopher Bertrand Russell Hulton Archive/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 2) Cecil The late artist Cecil Beaton Hulton Archive/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 3) Clarence American actor Henry Fonda pictured in 1975 rehearsing at the Piccadilly Theatre in London for his one man play about the famous trial lawyer Clarence Darrow Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 4) Clive Actor Clive Owen Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images Baby names 'at risk of dying out' - In pictures 5) Cyril Cyril Rioli, an Australian rules footballer Matt King/Getty Images The babies will be monitored by the trust until they are eight months old, as practised in Finland, and parents will be asked to fill out a feedback questionnaire about their use of the baby box. A 2013 study found breastfed babies under three months who sleep in their parents beds face a significantly increased risk of cot death. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Today researchers and activists in London released a transfesto, calling for greater awareness of issues faced by transgender, non-binary and gender nonconforming people after they die. The manifesto calls on the funeral industry to develop more trans-friendly practices and for official death-related paperwork to be more trans-inclusive. It also outlines plans to make trans-specific legal information more easily accessible. Trans people must constantly self-advocate in life for those of us with the privilege to plan for our futures instead of just our immediate survival, there is always a worry for us that our corpses will not be respected in death, says Morgan Potts, a member of the Dysphoria Collective, who participated in the research. Recommended Read more Funeral directors seek greener burials in the UK by dissolving bodies In death, many transgender people worry that theyll either be misgendered, or that their gender identity will be challenged or erased altogether by family members, funeral homes or public institutions. Concerns include ensuring that their chosen gender, pronoun and name is used both on official documents and in memorial ceremonies regardless of the bodys appearance. I decided to take time outside of what I usually do to specifically think about this head-on, because theres a very terrifying, looming question of what happens to our bodies when were not here to self-advocate anymore. Mr Potts, along with a dozen others, explored these issues with a non-profit group called The Corpse Project, which is investigating how bodies are dealt with after death. In addition to speaking with different groups about their attitudes, concerns and questions related to death, The Corpse Project is also carrying out scientific research and surveying current practices. The group, which began its research in June of last year, received funding from The Wellcome Trust to carry out its work. Recommended Read more An ancient form of burial is being resurrected In addition to releasing the transfesto, today the group has published findings on how to make current cremation and burial practices more eco-friendly. We reckon that most people think about their death actively perhaps one day a year, says Sophie Churchill, leader of The Corpse Project. So its important for them to give it a little more attention. But its helpful for you to live a good life if youre really accepting of the fact that one day it will come to an end. It helps you make the most of every day. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Britain is going to send a further 250 troops to Iraq help train local forces to fight Isis following recent successes against the group's strongholds. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) revealed the new deployment includes an additional 50 trainers who will be assigned to Al Asad Airbase in Western Iraq to instruct Iraqi personnel on infantry skills, combat first aid and countering improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The reinforcements will include 90 personnel to help guard Al Asad air base, 30 headquarters staff and a squadron of engineers to spend six months building infrastructure. The British deployment in Iraq currently numbers at more than 1,100 and UK military instructors have already helped train more than 18,000 members of the Iraqi security forces (ISF) including Kurdish militia. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said the latest deployment was to build on recent progress made by the campaign against Isis - notably the retaking of the key cities Ramadi, Hit and Fallujah. Mr Fallon said: "Iraqi forces have Daesh [Isis] on the back foot and are retaking territory, hitting its finances and striking its leadership. "This deployment will help the Iraqi forces to build on this success and push them back further." In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Show all 12 1 /12 In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Smoke rises after airstrikes by US-led coalition planes as Iraqi security forces advance against Islamic State extremists in Fallujah, June 15, 2016 AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Iraqi security forces advance during heavy fighting against Isis militants in Fallujah, Iraq, on 14 June AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia militia say that moving resources from Fallujah towards the area near Mosul was a 'betrayal' of the battle for the city GETTY In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Hospital sources said 18 bodies were recovered from the river over the weekend AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Up to 60,000 civilians were feared trapped in Fallujah at the start of the Iraqi operation AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters hold an Isis flag in an operation east of Fallujah the terror group has lost ground in both Syria and Iraq AFP/Getty In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters hold their weapons as they gather near Falluja, Iraq, June 4, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Pro-government forces bid to take back ground from Isis in Fallujah MOADH AL-DULAIMI/AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Smoke billows on the horizon as Iraqi military forces prepare for an offensive to retake the city AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah A member of the Iraqi security forces fires artillery during clashes with Isis militants near Fallujah, Iraq, 29 May, 2016 Reuters In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Iraqi government forces fire a rocket near al-Sejar village, north-east of Fallujah, on May 26, 2016, as they take part in a major assault to retake the city from the Islamic State group AFP/Getty In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters and Iraqi security forces advance towards Fallujah Thaier Al-Sudani/Reuters The Defence Secretary has also confirmed the British Government will supply a further 1.4 million in ammunition to Kurdish Peshmerga fighters. RAF aircraft have already carried out around 900 targeted strikes against Isis from their base in Akritiri, Cyprus. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} In one of the more dramatic days in UK politics, the Tory leadership race took a number of unexpected turns. Alongside Theresa May's expected launch for the top role, Michael Gove threw his hat into the ring in a surprise move, while Boris Johnson ruled himself out. Bookmakers made Ms May the favourite, followed by Mr Gove, even before Mr Johnson dramatically announced he was not going to stand in the race Michael Gove's speech in full: "The British people voted for change last Thursday. They sent us a clear instruction that they want Britain to leave the European Union and end the supremacy of EU law. They told us to restore democratic control of immigration policy and to spend their money on national priorities such as health, education and science instead of giving it to Brussels. They rejected politics as usual and government as usual. They want and need a new approach to running this country. "There are huge challenges ahead for this country but also huge opportunities. We can make this country stronger and fairer. We have a unique chance to heal divisions, give everyone a stake in the future and set an example as the most creative, innovative and progressive country in the world. "If we are to make the most of the opportunities ahead we need a bold break with the past. "I have repeatedly said that I do not want to be Prime Minister. That has always been my view. But events since last Thursday have weighed heavily with me. "I respect and admire all the candidates running for the leadership. In particular, I wanted to help build a team behind Boris Johnson so that a politician who argued for leaving the European Union could lead us to a better future. "But I have come, reluctantly, to the conclusion that Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead. "I have, therefore, decided to put my name forward for the leadership. I want there to be an open and positive debate about the path the country will now take. Whatever the verdict of that debate I will respect it. In the next few days I will lay out my plan for the United Kingdom which I hope can provide unity and change." Boris Johnson's speech in full: "That is the agenda for the next prime minister of this country. .@BorisJohnson says the next Conservative party leader "cannot be me" https://t.co/FA9byvkeUa Sky News (@SkyNews) June 30, 2016 "Well, I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punchline of this speech, that having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in parliament, I have concluded that person cannot be me. "And, if we do so, if we invest in our children and improve their life chances, if we continue to fuel the engines of social mobility, if we build on the great reforming legacy of David Cameron, if we invest in our infrastructure and we follow a sensible, one nation Conservative approach that is simultaneously tax-cutting and pro-enterprise, then I believe that this country can win and be better and more wonderful and, yes, greater than ever before." Theresa May's speech in full: "Good morning, and thank you for coming. I want to start by paying tribute to the Prime Minister. "It is easy to forget how far the Conservative Party and our country have come since David Cameron was first elected leader in 2005. Thanks to David, we were elected into government for the first time in eighteen years. We won a majority in the House of Commons for the first time in 23 years. "And in difficult times we stabilised the economy, reduced the deficit and helped more people into work than ever before. "But Davids legacy is about more than the economic rescue mission we undertook. Some of our biggest achievements including the introduction of same-sex marriage and taking the lowest-paid out of income tax altogether theyve been all about the pursuit of social justice. We have shown that when the Conservatives have an open, inclusive, One Nation agenda of social reform, we win elections and we change the country for the better. "So I want to thank David, on behalf of our Party, for his public service and for his significant achievements as Prime Minister. It has been a privilege to serve in his Cabinet. "Candidacy to become Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister "I have invited you here today to announce my candidacy to become the Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. "And I do so for three clear reasons. "First, following last weeks referendum, our country needs strong, proven leadership to steer us through this period of economic and political uncertainty, and to negotiate the best possible terms as we leave the European Union. "Second, we need leadership that can unite our Party and our country. With the Labour Party tearing itself to pieces, and divisive nationalists in Scotland and Wales, it is nothing less than the patriotic duty of our Party to unite and govern in the best interests of the whole country. "And third, we need a bold, new, positive vision for the future of our country a vision of a country that works not for a privileged few but for every one of us. "Political certainty and economic confidence following the referendum "I will turn to those three issues in just a moment. But as we know this is not a normal leadership election held in normal circumstances. So I want to talk first about the immediate need for political certainty and economic confidence following the referendum. "Whether you supported Leave or Remain in the referendum campaign and whether you predicted the sky would fall in or whether you didnt the result means we face a period of uncertainty that needs to be addressed head on. The country needs strong leadership and a clear sense of direction, to give confidence to investors, to keep the economy moving, and to keep people in work. "The fundamentals of the British economy are strong and will continue to be strong as we negotiate our departure from the EU. Economic growth has been solid, employment is at a record high, and the budget deficit has been reduced from eleven per cent of national income at the time of the banking crisis to a predicted three per cent this year. "Our financial system is well-capitalised and resilient. The capital requirements of the biggest banks and the liquid assets they hold mean they have the flexibility to keep on lending to businesses and families. And the Governors swift action last Friday means that the Bank of England is ready to provide significant additional funds and liquidity in foreign currency, should our financial institutions need it. He has also made clear that the Bank continues to assess the economic conditions and will take further action if necessary. "So the Bank of England has taken the right actions to maintain confidence, and I know that the Chancellor has said he will support the Bank if other measures are needed. But beyond that, I want to use this opportunity to make several things clear. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 9 September 2022 King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort wave after viewing floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace Getty UK news in pictures 8 September 2022 A screen commemorating Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in Piccadilly Circus, London Britain EPA UK news in pictures 7 September 2022 Police officers stand guard after Animal Rebellion activists threw paint on the walls and road outside the Houses of Parliament in protest, in London, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 6 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral, Scotland, where she invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA "First, Brexit means Brexit. The campaign was fought, the vote was held, turnout was high, and the public gave their verdict. There must be no attempts to remain inside the EU, no attempts to rejoin it through the back door, and no second referendum. The country voted to leave the European Union, and it is the duty of the Government and of Parliament to make sure we do just that. "Second, there should be no general election until 2020. There should be a normal Autumn Statement, held in the normal way at the normal time, and no emergency Budget. And there should be no decision to invoke Article Fifty until the British negotiating strategy is agreed and clear which means Article Fifty should not be invoked before the end of this year. "Third, we should make clear that for the foreseeable future there is absolutely no change in Britains trading relationships with the EU or other markets. And until a new legal agreement is reached with the EU, which will not happen for some time, the legal status of British nationals living or working in Europe will not change and neither will the status of EU nationals in Britain. "And fourth, while it is absolutely vital that the Government continues with its intention to reduce public spending and cut the budget deficit, we should no longer seek to reach a budget surplus by the end of the Parliament. If before 2020 there is a choice between further spending cuts, more borrowing and tax rises, the priority must be to avoid tax increases since they would disrupt consumption, employment and investment. "These are all measures that will be taken by a Conservative Government I lead, and they offer stability and certainty to consumers, employers and investors for the foreseeable future. And I want to reassure foreign governments, international companies and foreign nationals living in Britain that we are the same outward-looking and globally-minded and big-thinking country we have always been and we remain open for business and welcoming to foreign talent. "But looking ahead, negotiating the best possible terms as we leave the European Union will be crucial to our future prosperity. And that is going to require strong, proven leadership. I intend, in the coming weeks, to set out in some more detail my proposed negotiating principles, but for now I want to make two important points about the way we conduct this negotiation. "First, nobody should fool themselves that this process will be brief or straightforward. Regardless of the time it takes to negotiate the initial deal, it is going to take a period lasting several years to disentangle our laws, rules and processes from the Brussels machinery. That means it is going to require significant expertise and a consistent approach. I will therefore create a new government department responsible for conducting Britains negotiation with the EU and for supporting the rest of Whitehall in its European work. That department will be led by a senior Secretary of State and I will make sure that the position is taken by a Member of Parliament who campaigned for Britain to leave the EU. "The second point is while the ability to trade with EU member states is vital to our prosperity, there is clearly no mandate for a deal that involves accepting the free movement of people as it has worked hitherto. Now is not the time for me to set out my full negotiating principles that will come later. But I want to be clear that as we conduct our negotiations, it must be a priority to allow British companies to trade with the single market in goods and services but also to regain more control of the numbers of people who come here from Europe. Any attempt to wriggle out of that especially from leadership candidates who campaigned to leave the EU by focusing on immigration will be unacceptable to the public. "The process of withdrawal will be complex, and it will require hard work, serious work, and detailed work. And it means we need a Prime Minister who is a tough negotiator, and ready to do the job from day one. "But even then, it will not be possible to do what is right for Britain, to get the best deal we can for our country, unless we are united as a Party and as a Government. That is why I believe so strongly that there needs to be a proper contest with a leader elected by the whole Party with a proper mandate and no coronation brought about by back-room deals. "Weve just emerged from a bruising and often divisive campaign. Throughout, I made clear that on balance I favoured staying inside the EU because of the economic risk of leaving, the importance of cooperation on security matters, and the threat to the Union between England and Scotland but I also said that the sky would not fall in if we left. I was open about the costs and the benefits and the risks and the opportunities of EU membership. So now the decision has been made, lets make the most of the opportunities that our departure presents and get out into the world and help British firms to do business all around the globe. "Because the task in front of us is no longer about deciding whether we should leave or remain. The country has spoken, and the United Kingdom will leave the EU. The job now is about uniting the Party, uniting the country securing the Union and negotiating the best possible deal for Britain. And as you can see from some of my early supporters present here today, like Chris Grayling from the Leave campaign and Justine Greening from the Remain campaign, under my leadership the Conservative Party will be able to come back together and govern not just in the interests of seventeen million Leave voters or sixteen million Remain voters but in the interests of our whole country. "And this is a crucial point. Of course we need to unite the Party and the country, and of course we need to negotiate the best deal we can with Europe. But if were going to govern in the interests of the whole country, we cannot allow the Government to be defined exclusively and indefinitely by the process of our withdrawal from the EU. Because Britain still needs a Government that is capable of delivering a programme of serious social reform and realising a vision of a country that truly works for everyone. "The evidence of this need has been known to us for a long time. If youre born poor, you will die on average nine years earlier than others. If youre black, youre treated more harshly by the criminal justice system than if youre white. If youre a white, working-class boy, youre less likely than anybody else to go to university. If youre at a state school, youre less likely to reach the top professions than if youre educated privately. If youre a woman, you still earn less than a man. If you suffer from mental health problems, theres too often not enough help to hand. If youre young, youll find it harder than ever before to own your own home. These are all burning injustices, and as I did with the misuse of stop and search and deaths in police custody and modern slavery I am determined to fight against them. "But the mission to make this a country that works for everyone goes further than fighting these injustices. If youre from an ordinary, working-class family, life is just much harder than many people in politics realise. You have a job, but you dont always have job security. You have your own home, but you worry about mortgage rates going up. You can just about manage, but you worry about the cost of living and the quality of the local school, because theres no other choice for you. "Frankly, not everybody in Westminster understands what its like to live like this. And some need to be told that what the Government does isnt a game, its a serious business that has real consequences for peoples lives. I will set out more detailed proposals in the coming weeks, but for today I want to be clear: under my leadership, the motives of the Conservative Party will never be in any doubt. And our actions will be bold. We, the Conservatives, will put ourselves at the service of ordinary, working people and we will strive to make Britain a country that works for everyone regardless of who they are and regardless of where theyre from. "I know there is a great hunger for this kind of One Nation vision in the Conservative Party. Whether it is the 2020 Group, the Blue Collar Conservatism agenda or the social justice caucus, I have never known our Party to be so alive with such creative policy thinking and such an obvious desire to improve peoples lives. "And it this is the kind of Conservatism Ive always believed in and always stood for. I know some politicians seek high office because theyre driven by ideological fervour. And I know others seek it for reasons of ambition or glory. But my reasons are much simpler. I grew up the daughter of a local vicar and the granddaughter of a regimental sergeant major. Public service has been a part of who I am for as long as I can remember. "I know Im not a showy politician. I dont tour the television studios. I dont gossip about people over lunch. I dont go drinking in Parliaments bars. I dont often wear my heart on my sleeve. I just get on with the job in front of me. "And you can judge me by my record. As Home Secretary, I was told I couldnt take on the Police Federation, but I did. I was told I couldnt cut police spending without crime going up, but crime is lower than ever. I was told I shouldnt start asking questions about police corruption, but everywhere Ive seen it from Stephen Lawrence to Hillsborough Ive exposed it. I was told I couldnt stop Gary McKinnons extradition, but I stood up to the American Government and I stopped it. I was told I couldnt deport Abu Qatada, but I flew to Jordan and negotiated the treaty that got him out of Britain for good. "But if ever there was a time for a Prime Minister who is ready and able to do the job from day one, this is it. We have immediate work to do to restore political stability and economic certainty, to bring together the Party and the country, and to negotiate a sensible and orderly departure from the European Union. But more than that, we have a mission to make Britain a country that works not for the privileged and not for the few but for every one of our citizens." "Together, we the Conservative Party can build a better Britain." Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Boris Johnson will not stand for Conservative leader, he has announced. In a surprise announcement, the former Mayor of London said he would support the next Tory leader but that it would not be me. Mr Johnson gathered the media for a speech at a central London location for what was expected to be his campaign launch. However, after giving a speech outlining his view that the next Prime Minister should champion the "forgotten" people in Britain, he ruled himself out for the top job. I must tell you, my friends, you who have waited faithfully for the punchline of this speech, that having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in parliament I have concluded that person cannot be me," he said. My role will be to give every possible support to the next Conservative administration to make sure that we properly fulfill the mandate of the people that was delivered at the referendum, and to champion the agenda I believe in to stick up for the forgotten people in this country. Mr Johnson has long been the favourite to suceed David Cameron, who stepped down after being defeated in the European Union referendum. However his campaign was dealt a fatal blow this morning after his former Vote Leave ally Michael Gove announced that he was standing as leader. In his announcement speech Mr Gove said he did not believe Mr Johnson could be trusted to unite the Conservative party and lead the country. Asked about Mr Gove's decision, Mr Johnson's father Stanley Johnson quoted Caesar's supposed last words after he was stabbed by his former friend Brutus. "'Et tu Brute' is my comment on that," he told BBC Radio 4's The World at One. "I don't think he is called Brutus, but you never know." The favourites in the Tory leadership race Show all 5 1 /5 The favourites in the Tory leadership race The favourites in the Tory leadership race Theresa May The longest-serving Home Secretary in 100 years took a back seat in the referendum campaign. While backing Remain, she did not hit the campaign trail and delivered only a handful of speeches and interviews, and was critical of many aspects of the EU, particularly the European Convention on Human Rights. Hedging her bets allows her to now emerge as a unity candidate, and she is said to have been building up her back-room staff in preparation for a leadership bid. She has the significant advantage of having served in one of the great offices of state, in a steady and competent manner that has won her many admirers within party and the civil service. At a time of great instability, it may be that she is viewed as steady hand on the tiller. Mrs May does however, lack the star quality of a Boris Johnson and party members may doubt her ability to connect with ordinary voters PA The favourites in the Tory leadership race Michael Gove The Justice Secretary may be able to set himself up as the thinking Torys Brexit candidate. Made an enormous political and personal decision to back Leave, taking on his old friend David Cameron. He performed well during the TV debates, and will be an admired figure among Eurosceptic Conservatives. Along with Johnson, he will be hindered by the fact that he led a very divisive campaign, characterised by blue-on-blue action. MPs may also judge that he lacks Boris Johnsons wider appeal with the electorate. Possibly more likely that he will settle for being his new bosom buddy Boriss Chancellor Getty The favourites in the Tory leadership race Stephen Crabb Highly-rated Work and Pensions Secretary, raised on a council estate, so could reach out to non-traditional working class Tory voters Getty Images The favourites in the Tory leadership race Andrea Leadsom Minister of State for Energy at the Department of Energy and Climate Change is one of the most prominent figures in the Leave campaign, seen to have performed well in TV debates Rex Features The favourites in the Tory leadership race Liam Fox British Conservative MP and former Secretary of State for Defence, as sources said he will stand for the leadership of the Conservative Party AFP/Getty Home Secretary Theresa May also took an apparent swipe at the former mayor this morning, writing: "Some need to be told that what the government does isnt a game, its a serious business that has real consequences for peoples lives." Mr Johnson's departure from the race leaves Ms May as the favourite to win the race. She launched her leadership campaign this morning. The shock news comes after George Osborne, who was previously seen as the anointed successor to David Cameron, ruled himself out of the race following the EU referendum result. Though Mr Johnson is popular amongst Conservative party activists, the party's internal electoral system allows MPs to pick which two candidates their members can vote between. Other candidates to declare in the race so far include Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb, former defence secretary Liam Fox, and Andrea Leadsom. Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said is "seriously considering" a run. The leadership election was called after Mr Cameron announced his resignation in the aftermath of the EU referendum result. The Prime Minister said it was right that a new Prime Minister should steer Britain's exit from the European Union and invoke article 50. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Thousands of people converged on central London today in protest against Britain leaving the European Union. Marchers gathered at Park Lane at 11am and marched towards Parliament Square. The march follows a similar rally earlier this week in Trafalgar Square that was cancelled due to heavy rain but to which tens of thousands of people turned up anyway. Pro-EU rally held in London Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum last week by 52 per cent to 48 per cent. Support in urban areas and amongst young people was significantly lower, however. The capital strongly backed Remain by 60 per cent to 40 per cent. The disparity between different parts of the country has promoted a four-million-signature petition calling for a second referendum and a renewed push for Scotland to secede from the UK. The events organiser, Kings College graduate Kieran MacDermott, wrote: We can prevent Brexit by refusing to accept the referendum as the final say and take our finger off the self-destruct button. Brexit reactions in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit reactions in pictures Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign look at their phones after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall AP Brexit reactions in pictures Leave supporters cheer results at a Leave.eu party after polling stations closed in the Referendum on the European Union in London Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Mr Cameron announces his resignation to supporters Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Donald Tusk proposes that the 27 remaining EU member states start a wider reflection on the future of our union Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage greets his supporters on College Green in Westminster, after Britain voted to leave the European Union PA Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as referendum results are announced today Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Boris Johnson leaves his home today to discover a crowd of waiting journalists and police officers Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Leave EU supporters celebrate as they watch the British EU Referendum results being televised at Millbank Tower in London Rex Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as results of the EU referendum are announced at the Royal Festival Hall Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign react after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall PA It is the responsibility of Parliament to consider our democracy more carefully and call for a vote before they all accept the UKs decline. Let's not leave the next generation adrift. We can provide the ammunition Parliament needs to reason their way through this mess and reconsider Brexit, if we make a stand. About 34,000 people said they were interested in attending the event on social media. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Every aspect of trade deals, including freedom of movement, will be on the table for discussion when the UK negotiates its exit from the EU, a French minister has said. European leaders, including French president Francois Hollande, had previously insisted access to the single market relied on freedom of movement, the French finance minister Michel Sapins comments signal a different tone. Mr Sapin, one of Socialist leader Mr Hollandes closest allies, told BBC Newsnight: When we negotiate with a country, a third party, Norway, Switzerland, to take countries that are very close, we discuss all subjects: under what conditions there is freedom of movement of people; freedom of movement of goods; of capital. That is something that is very important for the UK, with all the questions about financial services. So we discuss everything. Everything will be on the table because Britain will make proposals, and we will negotiate all these aspects with a desire to come to an agreement. But were not there yet, until we have an official decision from the UK. But he warned against playing down the implications of Brexit, continuing: Britain wont be in the same position as it was beforehand. Things will change. Things have already changed. We return to zero, as we say in French - a clean slate. Mr Sapin also noted that a number of financial institutions could move their operations out of London and into EU countries many of whom will be drawn to Paris depending on the result of the UKs departure from the trade bloc. He said: "We should prepare for this. Not out of hostility." HSBC, a leading global bank that has assets worth $2.6 trillion (1.9 trillion), is planning to move up to 1,000 staff from the UK to Paris. Recommended Read more Brexit has brought out the worst in political cliche Criticising the leave campaign for apparently having unprepared a plan for Brexit Britain, Mr Sapin added: What surprised me is that those who argued for Brexit, and whom the people backed, were prepared for absolutely none of the consequences of this Brexit. They suddenly discovered difficulties and problems. We are discovering them with them. But for the UK of course its much more serious. When you take a position you should analyse all the aspects and all the consequences. Perhaps therefore if the people of Britain had known the consequences they wouldnt have voted the way they did. But the vote is there and we have to deal with the consequences. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Show all 6 1 /6 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you More expensive foreign holidays The first practical effect of a vote to Leave is that the pound will be worth less abroad, meaning foreign holidays will cost us more nito100 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you No immediate change in immigration status The Prime Minister will have to address other immediate concerns. He is likely to reassure nationals of other EU countries living in the UK that their status is unchanged. That is what the Leave campaign has said, so, even after the Brexit negotiations are complete, those who are already in the UK would be allowed to stay Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Higher inflation A lower pound means that imports would become more expensive. This is likely to mean the return of inflation a phenomenon with which many of us are unfamiliar because prices have been stable for so long, rising at no more than about 2 per cent a year. The effect may probably not be particularly noticeable in the first few months. At first price rises would be confined to imported goods food and clothes being the most obvious but inflation has a tendency to spread and to gain its own momentum AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Interest rates might rise The trouble with inflation is that the Bank of England has a legal obligation to keep it as close to 2 per cent a year as possible. If a fall in the pound threatens to push prices up faster than this, the Bank will raise interest rates. This acts against inflation in three ways. First, it makes the pound more attractive, because deposits in pounds will earn higher interest. Second, it reduces demand by putting up the cost of borrowing, and especially by taking larger mortgage payments out of the economy. Third, it makes it more expensive for businesses to borrow to expand output Getty 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Did somebody say recession? Mr Carney, the Treasury and a range of international economists have warned about this. Many Leave voters appear not to have believed them, or to think that they are exaggerating small, long-term effects. But there is no doubt that the Leave vote is a negative shock to the economy. This is because it changes expectations about the economys future performance. Even though Britain is not actually be leaving the EU for at least two years, companies and investors will start to move money out of Britain, or to scale back plans for expansion, because they are less confident about what would happen after 2018 AFP/Getty Images 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you And we wouldnt even get our money back All this will be happening while the Prime Minister, whoever he or she is, is negotiating the terms of our future access to the EU single market. In the meantime, our trade with the EU would be unaffected, except that companies elsewhere in the EU may be less interested in buying from us or selling to us, expecting tariff barriers to go up in two years time. Whoever the Chancellor is, he or she may feel the need to bring in a new Budget Getty Images The French government still plans to build a nuclear power plant at Hinkley Point, despite the result of the referendum, according to Mr Sapin. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The former German chancellor Helmut Kohl has warned European Union leaders not to act in haste following the UKs vote to leave the EU. Mr Kohl, who was a key figure in Germanys reunification in the 1990s, said Britain must be given time to react to the vote and decide what the next step is. Speaking to German newspaper Bild, Mr Kohl, who is 86 and in poor health, warned against acting with unnecessary severity and haste. The newspaper did not quote Mr Kohl directly, but in an article titled Helmut Kohl Europe needs to pause for breath, he was indirectly quoted as saying it would be a giant mistake to slam the door on Britain. As German chancellor, Mr Kohl was hailed as a key architect of European unification, and was in office during Germanys reunification and the introduction of the euro. In the interview Mr Kohl also called on EU leaders to show greater respect to individual nations and regional identities. Mr Kohls intervention will frustrate some EU leaders, who have called for a rapid end to Britains membership of the bloc. But a power vacuum in Britain means the government is not currently in a position to negotiate with EU leaders in any case. Following the UKs Brexit vote, Britain has been embroiled in a tumultuous period of political uncertainty. Immediately after the referendum result Prime Minister David Cameron announced his resignation and refused to trigger article 50 the means by which the country formally begins its withdrawal from the UK. His departure has led to a Conservative Party leadership race which front runner and leading Leave campaigner Boris Johnson said he would not contest. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 26 October 2022 A meerkat explores a pumpkin in the enclosure at Wild Place, Bristol, where some of the animals are having pumpkin treats as part of their environmental enrichment PA UK news in pictures 25 October 2022 King Charles III welcomes Rishi Sunak during an audience at Buckingham Palace, where he invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2022 Rishi Sunak celebrates with Tory MPs outside the Conservative Campaign Headquarters after becoming the new leader of the Conservative Party Reuters UK news in pictures 23 October 2022 The Green Man at October Plenty, Borough Market's annual Autumn Harvest festival, in London, which returns for the first time post pandemic PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 9 September 2022 King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort wave after viewing floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace Getty UK news in pictures 8 September 2022 A screen commemorating Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in Piccadilly Circus, London Britain EPA UK news in pictures 7 September 2022 Police officers stand guard after Animal Rebellion activists threw paint on the walls and road outside the Houses of Parliament in protest, in London, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 6 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral, Scotland, where she invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA The UK also faces a fresh threat of Scottish secession, after Scotlands first minister Nicola Sturgeon called for a second referendum after Scots voted by 62% to 38% to remain in the EU. Meanwhile the Labour Party is also in the throes of a leadership coup after almost all of Jeremy Corbyns shadow cabinet resigned following what they described as an uninspiring campaign to remain in the EU. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Frances finance minister has said the Leave camp appeared to be totally unprepared for any of the consequences of Brexit. Michel Sapin said Britain would face real difficulties after it voted to leave the European Union and that he was surprised those campaigning for Brexit did not appear to have a plan following the referendum. Speaking to BBC Newsnight, he said: The Leave campaign suddenly discovered difficulties and problems. We are discovering them as well but for the UK of course its much more serious. Thats the paradox: those who were the least prepared will now have to take responsibility. He said everything is on the table when it came to negotiating Britains exit from the union - causing speculation that France may be willing to move on giving Britain access to the single market while allowing them to restrict freedom of movement. Britain will make proposals and we will negotiate all these aspects with a desire to come to an agreement. But were not there yet, until we have an official decision from the UK, he explained. Britain wont be in the same position as it was before. Things will change. Things have already changed. Brexit reactions in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit reactions in pictures Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign look at their phones after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall AP Brexit reactions in pictures Leave supporters cheer results at a Leave.eu party after polling stations closed in the Referendum on the European Union in London Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Mr Cameron announces his resignation to supporters Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Donald Tusk proposes that the 27 remaining EU member states start a wider reflection on the future of our union Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage greets his supporters on College Green in Westminster, after Britain voted to leave the European Union PA Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as referendum results are announced today Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Boris Johnson leaves his home today to discover a crowd of waiting journalists and police officers Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Leave EU supporters celebrate as they watch the British EU Referendum results being televised at Millbank Tower in London Rex Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as results of the EU referendum are announced at the Royal Festival Hall Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign react after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall PA We return to zero. A clean state... Most of all I dont want to appear hostile. He also noted many banks may mover operations from London to Paris depending on the terms of the trade deal - potentially costing thousands of jobs in the financial services industry. He said: We should prepare for this but not out of hostility. Recommended Read more Juncker bans EU officials from holding secret Brexit talks with UK Mr Sapin also said Paris wanted to negotiate the trade deal as quickly as possible. Not because we want to punish the UK. I think Britain will encounter real difficulties and we dont need to amplify them, he said. But one of the problems, the most important today, is uncertainty." Britain has come under mounting pressure from the EU to trigger Article 50, which will start formal negotiations for the country's exit. Outgoing Prime Minister David Cameron has said the measure should be triggered by his successor, who will be appointed in September. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The children of Polish soldiers who fought in the Second World War have spoken of their people's proud history of fighting alongside the British amidst rising xenophobia following Brexit. Many Britons are "unaware" their own grandparents fought side-by-side with Poles against the Nazis and even as key spies and codebreakers who helped crack the Enigma code, experts have said. Polish airmen were particularly pivotal in the Battle of Britain, and many later settled in the country and went on to work in the mines and other industries. But while Poles have long been seen as "easy pickings" for racists in Britain, some say the recent incidents following the anti-EU Leave campaign have been the "worst" they have known. However, they stressed that relations between British and Polish soldiers had historically been very cordial. Michael Olizer, whose father was a Polish soldier, said many of the older generation remember the Poles being welcomed into Britain at the start of the Second World War after the Nazis had invaded their homeland. "The Polish fought with great pride and great belief in Britain. There was a brotherhood in arms for those who had fought alongside the British," he told The Independent. "One of the great things about the British is they don't go on too much about their history. But it also means they don't know much about the Poles, for example, and that's a sad thing. "I hear people say 'What side were the Poles on in the War?' They were loyal allies to the British. They suffered terrible losses." Britain was bound to defend Poland from attack by Germany in a mutual pact of loyalty between the two nations signed in August 1939. After their troops could not hold off the German invasion, much of the Polish military came to Britain to re-group. One squadron at the Battle of Britain, made up of 143 Polish airmen, took down more German planes than any other in June 1940, meaning they made "a good impression" on the forces and the public at the time. Meanwhile a female Polish spy, Krystyna Skarbek, better known as Christine Granville, was a daredevil double-agent for the British secret service throughout the war, who, despite being one of its longest serving women agents, was not granted British citizenship once the war ended. The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures Show all 6 1 /6 The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures Crew of the U-boat ORP Sokol, one of the Terrible Twins" which with ORP Dzik distinguished itself in the Mediterranean in WW2 Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures Polish Wrens (Women's Royal Naval Service) march in England in WW2 Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures Polish seamen fighting with the British Navy take surrender of German U-Boat at end of WW2 Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures King George VI visits pilots of 303 Polish Air Force Squadron (top scoring in Battle of Britain) 26 September 1940 Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures Polish Wrens (Women's Royal Naval Service) being taught English Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum The Polish fight alongside Britain - in pictures Polish seamen fighting with the British Navy take surrender of German U-Boat at end of WW2 Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum The first codebreakers to lay the foundations for cracking the Engima code also were not British, but Polish mathematicians in Warsaw. And the first design for a mine detector was created by Polish inventor Josef Kosacki, who presented it as a gift to the British Army. His creation was used across Italy and Sicily by British soldiers. Yet Polish soldiers were not invited to the Victory Parade at the end of the war for fear of upsetting Joseph Stalin, who had been given Poland under the Yalta agreement signed by the US and UK. And many left-wing unions in Britain continued to be suspicious of Poles as they fled communism, believing them to be "fascists". "There has always been a low level of dislike, which was really very unfair," said Mr Olizer, who is also a trustee of the Polish Institute and Sikorski Museum in London. "On the whole, the Poles have always been very admiring of the British." Since Brexit, racist and abusive incidents againts central and eastern Europeans have been reported to police across the country. Joanna Mludzinska, chair of the Polish Social and Cultural Association, said graffiti daubed across her building's windows telling Poles to "f*** off" had shocked the community. "I think these are some of the worst incidents we've ever seen. Of course things are much easier to see on social media now," she told The Independent. "But many of the older generation are aware of the Battle of Britain and the Polish airmen. Maybe younger people aren't so aware. "Since the graffiti, we have had some very warm and appreciative messages of support about the wartime history and the fact Polish people have been here ever since the War." Important to the Polish community to this day is the Polish War Memorial in west London, which was erected in 1948 by airmen who settled in Britain after their country was taken over by the Soviet Union. The vote to leave membership of the EU - partly driven by the slogan "we want our country back" - was mostly supported by the older generation in the UK. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Leading Scottish Labour grandee Sir Tam Dalyell has called for Parliament to show courage and overrule the Brexit vote for the sake of Scottish and English unity. The former MP said he was furious at the result which saw 52 per cent of the UK - but only 38 per cent of Scots - vote to leave the European Union. The 83-year-old, who coined the phrase West Lothian question about Scottish MPs voting on English matters, said the House of Commons should have some guts and less cowardice when it came to the future of the UK. In an interview with the BBCs Newsnight, Sir Tam said: "People did not understand that they were voting for the end of the single market on which many of their jobs will depend. "They didnt understand about immigration and how little could be done about immigration. "Is this mantra of the will of the people taking into account the tumbling pound?" He said "the mind boggles" at the thought of a formal border between Scotland and England. Brexit reactions in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit reactions in pictures Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign look at their phones after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall AP Brexit reactions in pictures Leave supporters cheer results at a Leave.eu party after polling stations closed in the Referendum on the European Union in London Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Mr Cameron announces his resignation to supporters Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Donald Tusk proposes that the 27 remaining EU member states start a wider reflection on the future of our union Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage greets his supporters on College Green in Westminster, after Britain voted to leave the European Union PA Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as referendum results are announced today Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Boris Johnson leaves his home today to discover a crowd of waiting journalists and police officers Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Leave EU supporters celebrate as they watch the British EU Referendum results being televised at Millbank Tower in London Rex Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as results of the EU referendum are announced at the Royal Festival Hall Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign react after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall PA It comes as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon arrived in Brussels to hold discussions with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker about the possibility of Scotland remaining a member of the EU even if the rest of the UK votes to leave. Mr Juncker said he would listen to Scotlands case - which is likely to follow the Danish model, where Denmark is in the EU but Danish territories Greenland and the Faroe Islands are not. Following the result, the SNP leader called for a second referendum on Scottish independence as the country now faces the prospect of being taken out of the European Union against our will. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The way the EU referendum result was split across the UK should be considered a draw, an expert on European and constitutional law has claimed. London School of Economics' Dr Jo Murkens pointed out Scotland and Northern Ireland voted clearly to remain in the EU, while voters in England and Wales opted to leave. He said Brexit could be therefore be avoided with willing leadership - while warning Britain's withdrawal from the EU could have devastating consequences for the country's unity. 6 ways Britain leaving the EU will affect you Recommended Read more How to heal a country divided by Brexit He said he could "see no way" any Prime Minister would go through with it. There would be no country left if we leave the EU, Dr Murkens told the Evening Standard. I see no way in which the UK can leave the EU and survive. Brexit going ahead would therefore fragment the Union, the scholar said, which has been in existence since 1707. He added: Theres no political will in Scotland and Northern Ireland to remain in the UK if it leaves the EU. What has the EU ever done for us? Show all 7 1 /7 What has the EU ever done for us? What has the EU ever done for us? 1. It gives you freedom to live, work and retire anywhere in Europe As a member of the EU, UK citizens benefit from freedom of movement across the continent. Considered one of the so-called four pillars of the European Union, this freedom allows all EU citizens to live, work and travel in other member states. What has the EU ever done for us? 2. It sustains millions of jobs A report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, released in October 2015, suggested 3.1 million British jobs were linked to the UKs exports to the EU. What has the EU ever done for us? 3. Your holiday is much easier - and safer Freedom to travel is one of the most exercised benefits of EU membership, with Britons having made 31 million visits to the EU in 2014 alone. But a lot of the benefits of being an EU citizen are either taken for granted or go unnoticed. What has the EU ever done for us? 4. It means you're less likely to get ripped off Consumer protection is a key benefit of the EUs single market, and ensures members of the British public receive equal consumer rights when shopping anywhere in Europe. What has the EU ever done for us? 5. It offers greater protection from terrorists, paedophiles, people traffickers and cyber-crime Another example of a lesser-known advantage of EU membership is the benefit of cross-country coordination and cooperation in the fight against crime. What has the EU ever done for us? 6. Our businesses depend on it According to 71% of all members of the Confederation of British Influence (CBI), and 67 per cent of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the EU has had an overall positive impact on their business. What has the EU ever done for us? 7. We have greater influence Robin Niblett, Director of think-tank Chatham House, stated in a report published last year: For a mid-sized country like the UK, which will never again be economically dominant either globally or regionally, and whose diplomatic and military resources are declining in relative terms, being a major player in a strong regional institution can offer a critical lever for international influence. I can see no Prime Minister who would want to preside over the break-up of the United Kingdom. The political will in Scotland to detach from England and become independent has been strong for a number of years. After defeat in the 2014 Scottish referendum, the Brexit vote - which altered the political status quo and galvanised support - gave nationalists a renewed opportunity to push for independence. Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the Scottish National Party, announced plans for another independence referendum on the same day as the EU referendum results were announced. In Northern Ireland a region which has achieved peace after years of bitter conflict there were also immediate calls for reunification. Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, of Sinn Fein, demanded a border poll on a united Ireland. "The people of the north of Ireland have made it clear at the polls that they wish to remain in the EU, said Mr McGuinness. "This decision to drag us out of the European Union against our democratically expressed wishes has nothing to do with issues around the European institutions and everything to do with the civil war within the British Tory party. National leadership has also been thrown into doubt since the referendum, which sparked a leadership contest in both main parties. Some commentators have suggested Boris Johnson also came to the same conclusion as Dr Murkens, which would provide a possible explanation for his surprise withdrawal from the Conservative leadership race on Thursday. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Jeremy Corbyn has been accused of comparing the Israeli state to terrorist groups including Isis in a speech on combating antisemitism in the Labour Party. The embattled Labour leader was speaking after the launch of a report by the former director of Liberty, Shami Chakrabarti. Modern antisemitism may not always be about overt violence and persecution, though there is too much of that even to this day. We must also be vigilant against subtler and invidious manifestations of this nasty ancient hatred and avoid slipping into its traps by accident or intent, Mr Corbyn said. Jeremy Corbyn delivers a speech on Labour's anti-Semitism inquiry findings at Savoy Place, London. (PA) Our Jewish friends are no more responsible for the actions of Israel or the Netanyahu government than our Muslim friends are for those of various self-styled Islamic states or organisations. Many listeners equated Mr Corbyns comments with a direct comparison between the Israeli government and Isis, which calls itself the Islamic State. The Afghan Taliban also styles itself as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and countless other Islamist terror groups are waging insurgencies to build their own states governed under a fundamentalist interpretation of Sharia law, including Boko Haram in Nigeria and al-Qaeda in Yemen. Sam Stopp, a Labour councillor in Wembley, said Mr Corbyn had "compared Israel to Isis", writing on Twitter: "For that alone, he should resign. I am red with fury. Ruth Smeeth, the Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent North and Kidsgrove, who is Jewish, reportedly left the event in tears after a member of the Momentum group accused her of colluding with the Daily Telegraph. Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said Show all 14 1 /14 Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Israel and Palestine The simple fact in all of this is that Naz made these comments at a time when there was another brutal Israeli attack on the Palestinians; and theres one stark fact that virtually no one in the British media ever reports, in almost all these conflicts the death toll is usually between 60 and 100 Palestinians killed for every Israeli. Now, any other country doing that would be accused of war crimes but its like we have a double standard about the policies of the Israeli government Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Antisemitism in the Labour Party As Ive said, Ive never heard anybody say anything antisemitism-Semitic, but theres been a very well-orchestrated campaign by the Israel lobby to smear anybody who criticises Israeli policy as antisemitic. I had to put up with 35 years of this Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Naz Shah Its completely over-the-top and rude, but who am I to denounce anyone with all of that. It was wrong. I dont think she is antisemitic, it was incredibly rude but I dont believe she is an antisemite. When the NEC investigation is finished they'll say it was rude and over the top but they wont find any evidence that she actually hates Jews. Weve got to investigate all these charges and the context in which they are made. If she is antisemitic like the other three or four members weve found who are antisemitic, shell be expelled Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On other alleged antisemites in Labour That is part of the classic antisemitic thing about an international Jewish conspiracy that is the reason we need to have an investigation. Ive got an open mind. Ive seen nothing to suggest to me that she is antisemitic. I wouldnt have supported her if I [thought] she was antisemitic Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On whether what Hitler did was legal, as stated by Naz Shah Thats a statement of fact Hitler, Im sure, passed all those laws that allowed him to do that its history literally, Hitler was completely mad, he killed six million Jews. Shes not saying its legal to kill six million Jews: what they were doing in that country allowed them not just to kill six million Jews, kill all the communists, kill all the leftists like me, my father almost died when a Nazi sub sank his boat. I have no sympathy with Hitler Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On another alleged antisemite in Labour No, that is, and thats why shes been suspended or expelled. What Ive said is that in 47 years of the party in all the meetings Ive been in Ive never heard anyone say anything antisemitic. There are bound to be in a party of half a million people youll have a handful of antisemites, youll have a handful of racists. Youve managed to dig out virtually every antisemitic comment that Labour members have made out of half a million people. Ive never met any of these people. Theres not a problem. Youre talking about a handful of people in a party of half a million people. Jeremy Corbyn has moved rapidly to deal with them Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Jeremy Corbyns response to the allegations He met with Naz and she agreed she would stand down while the investigation is going on. He called her in to see her. Theres been a huge investigation of virtually everything that anybody put on the internet many of these people are quite new and recent members of the party that joined in the big influx. 300,000 new people came in Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On his meeting a man accused of antisemitism in London This is the man who called for Muslims around the world to donate blood after the attacks of 9/11 when he came to London I went with him to the Regents Park mosque where he said no man should hit a woman and you should not discriminate against homosexuals. So I cant equate what I heard him say he made no antisemitic statement while he was here in London. I dont investigate people. Ive simply said what I believe to be true which is that Naz was not antisemitic. She was completely over the top, very rude, but that does not make her an antisemite Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On John Manns comments He went completely over the top. I was actually doing a radio interview at the time that he was bellowing that Im a racist antisemite in my ear. Ive had that with John Mann before a few weeks ago screaming that I was a bigot down the phone. Im not an apologist for anyone who makes antisemitic statements. What Im saying is dont confuse antisemitism with criticism of the Israeli government policy Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On calling a Jewish journalist a concentration camp guard whilst Mayor of London I cant tell if a journalist is Jewish or Catholic or anything. If a journalist is chasing you down the street at nine of clock at night you might be rude to them. Some people might have hit him! He said he was just doing his job. We went all the way to the High Court and the judge opened his judgement by saying I hope no one here is going to suggest that Mr Livingstone is antisemitic. We won the case Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On claims about Hitler and Zionism I cant tell if a journalist is Jewish or Catholic or anything. If a journalist is chasing you down the street at nine of clock at night you might be rude to them. Some people might have hit him! He said he was just doing his job. We went all the way to the High Court and the judge opened his judgement by saying I hope no one here is going to suggest that Mr Livingstone is antisemitic. We won the case Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On John Mann Id simply say to John Mann go back and check. Is what I say true, or is it not? The BBC, youve got a huge team of researchers, it will take just an hour or two to go back and confirm. I was asked a question, I answered it. I have never in 45 years since I won my first election, I have never lied. I have always answered the question Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On raising the issue if Hitler It lays you open to people smearing and lying about you. Ive always answered the questions put to me and that simple fact is weve had a handful of people saying antisemitic things in the Labour Party, theyve been suspended, some of them are on their way to being expelled, some of them have been expelled already Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On people calling for him to be suspended All my usual critics but the simple fact is I agree with them; there is no place for antisemitism in the Labour party. For them to suggest I am antisemitic is a bit bizarre considering we worked with Jewish groups and put on exhibitions about the scale of the holocaust, we worked with Jewish groups to tackling the scale of antisemitism back in the 1970s. Ive always opposed every form of racism whether its against black people or Jews. Im going to stay in the Labour party and continue to fight against all forms of racism and discrimination as I have my entire life When challenged over the apparent comparison to Isis, the Labour leader said of course Im not drawing links between the two. In the report it says that you shouldnt say to somebody just because youre Jewish you must have an opinion on Israel, just as much as you shouldnt say to a Muslim that you must have an opinion on Isis, Mr Corbyn added. Supporters said he was rightly saying Muslims and Jews should not be held responsible for groups or states claiming to represent them, and was being unfairly criticised. A spokesperson for Mr Corbyn told The Independent: He is explicitly stating that people should not be held responsible for the actions of states or organisations around the world on the basis of religion or ethnicity. The report followed controversy over a Facebook post by Naz Shah, the Labour MP for Bradford West, claims by Ken Livingstone that Adolf Hitler supporter Zionism and a wave of suspensions in the party. Ms Chakrabarti's inquiry made 20 recommendations but she said she does not approve of lifetime bans for party membership. The report said racial or religious stereotypes had no place in the Labour Party and that its leadership must introduce new sanctions for members accused of antisemitism other than suspension or expulsion. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Jeremy Corbyn has vowed to stamp out hateful language or debate following a report on antisemitism in his party. His speech generated controversy after the Labour leader was accused of comparing the Israeli government to Isis, although a spokesperson for Mr Corbyn said he was saying people should not be held responsible for the actions of states or organisations based on their religion. Supporters said he was rightly saying Muslims and Jews should not be held responsible for groups or states claiming to represent them, and was being unfairly criticised. A Jewish MP, Ruth Smeeth, also left the event after an altercation with an activist from the Momentum group. The report, by former Liberty director Shami Chakrabarti, was commissioned earlier this year during a row over alleged antisemitism within the Labour Party. It followed controversy over a Facebook post by Naz Shah, the Labour MP for Bradford West, claims made by Ken Livingstone that Adolf Hitler supported Zionism and a wave of suspensions in the party. Ms Chakrabarti's inquiry made 20 recommendations but she said she does not approve of lifetime bans for party membership. The report said racial or religious stereotypes had no place in the Labour Party and that its leadership must introduce new sanctions for members accused of antisemitism other than suspension or expulsion. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn Show all 11 1 /11 The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn He called Hezbollah and Hamas friends True. In a speech made to the Stop the War Coalition in 2009, Mr Corbyn called representatives from both groups friends after inviting them to Parliament. He later told Channel 4 he wanted both groups, who have factions designated as international terror organisations, to be part of the debate for the Middle East peace process. I use (the word friends) in a collective way, saying our friends are prepared to talk, he added. Does it mean I agree with Hamas and what it does? No. Does it mean I agree with Hezbollah and what they do? No. Reuters The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn Jeremy Corbyn thinks the death of Osama bin Laden was a tragedy Partly false. David Cameron used this as a line of attack at the Conservative Party conference but appears to have left out all context from Mr Corbyns original remarks. In an 2011 interview on Iranian television, the then-backbencher said the fact the al-Qaeda leader was not put on trial was the tragedy, continuing: The World Trade Center was a tragedy, the attack on Afghanistan was a tragedy, the war in Iraq was a tragedy. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn He is haunted by the legacy of his evil great-great-grandfather False. A Daily Express expose revealed that the Labour leaders ancestor, James Sargent, was the despotic master of a Victorian workhouse. Addressing the report at the Labour conference, Mr Corbyn said he had never heard of him before, adding: I want to take this opportunity to apologise for not doing the decent thing and going back in time and having a chat with him about his appalling behaviour. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn Jeremy Corbyn raised a motion about pigeon bombs in Parliament This one is true. On 21 May 2004, Mr Corbyn raised an early day motion entitled pigeon bombs, proposing that the House register being appalled but barely surprised that MI5 reportedly proposed to load pigeons with explosives as a weapon. The motion continued: The House believes that humans represent the most obscene, perverted, cruel, uncivilised and lethal species ever to inhabit the planet and looks forward to the day when the inevitable asteroid slams into the earth and wipes them out thus giving nature the opportunity to start again. It was not carried. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn He rides a Communist bicycle False. A report in The Times referred to Mr Corbyn, known for his cycling, riding a Chairman Mao-style bicycle earlier this year. Less thorough journalists might have referred to it as just a bicycle, but no, so we have to conclude that whenever we see somebody on a bicycle from now on, there goes another supporter of Chairman Mao, he later joked. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn 'Jeremy Corbyn will appoint a special minister for Jews' False so far. The Sun report in December was allegedly based on a rumour passed to the paper by a Daily Express columnist who has written pieces critical of the Labour leader in the past. The minister did not materialise in his shadow cabinet. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn Jeremy Corbyn wishes Britain would abolish its Army False. Another gem from The Sun took comments made at a Hiroshima remembrance parade in August 2012 where Mr Corbyn supported Costa Ricas move to abolish it armed forces. Wouldnt it be wonderful if every politician around the worldabolished the army and took pride in the fact that they dont have an army, he added. The caveat that every politician must take the step suggests Mr Corbyn does not support UK disarmament just yet. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn Jeremy Corbyn stole sandwiches meant for veterans False. The Guido Fawkes blog claimed that the Labour leader took sandwiches meant for veterans at at Battle of Britain memorial service in September but a photo later emerged showing him being handed one by Costa volunteers, who later confirmed they were given to all guests. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn He missed the induction into the Queens privy council True. After much speculation about Mr Corbyns republican views and willingness to bow to the monarch, his office confirmed that he did not attend the official induction to the privy council because of a prior engagement, but did not rule out joining the body. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn Jeremy Corbyn refuses to sing the national anthem. Partly true. The Labour leader was filmed standing in silence as God Save the Queen was sung at a Battle of Britain remembrance service but will reportedly sing it in future. Mr Corbyn was elusive on the issue in an interview, saying he would show memorials respect in the proper way, but sources said he would sing the anthem at future occasions. The most ridiculous claims made about Jeremy Corbyn He is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Cheese True. The group lists its purpose as the following: To increase awareness of issues surrounding the dairy industry and focus on economic issues affecting the dairy industry and producers. Here is Mr Corbyns speech in full: The Labour Party is built on the values of solidarity, social justice, equality, internationalism and human rights. That is why I have devoted my life to it, and why nine months ago, I was honoured to be elected leader by over a quarter of a million people. That is, by the way, substantially more than the entire electorate that will have the right to pick the Conservative Prime Minister this Autumn. After the tumultuous events of the past week in Britain, including the vote in last weeks referendum to leave the European Union, the need for us to unite around these values, to practice what we preach, and be judged by the highest of standards, is perhaps as great as it has ever been. So although I asked Shami Chakrabarti to carry out her inquiry after some disturbing and damaging incidents earlier this year, I believe that its findings and recommendations are of even more importance for our party, country and wider world today. Whatever your views on the outcome of the referendum campaign and two thirds of Labour supporters voted Remain we need to reflect for a few moments on some of the hateful language used by some of the most prominent participants in it. Boris Johnson, current favourite to lead the Tory party, compared Hitlers murderous tyranny with the European project created from its ashes and questioned Barack Obama's motives because of his part-Kenyan heritage. Jeremy Corbyn delivers a speech on Labour's anti-Semitism inquiry findings at Savoy Place, London. (PA) That was no dog whistle. That was a fog horn - a classic racist trope casting doubt on someones motivation because of their race. The Justice Secretary Michael Gove compared pro-Remain economists to Nazi collaborators, a startling example of the way in which the Nazi regime and the Holocaust can be minimized, trivialized or even forgotten by ill-judged comparisons. And Nigel Farage warned of mass sex attacks should the Remain Campaign win, calling it the nuclear bomb of the Brexit campaign. Is it only me who just doesn't find him funny any more? These are hateful comments - no question. They are unworthy of the millions who voted to Leave, not out of xenophobia or racism, but often as a desperate response - yes to austerity, but also to years of being ignored and left behind by the Westminster elite. The people of Britain - and especially the young - need a strong, united, principled and kind Labour Party more than ever. They didn't crash the banks, heat up the planet or start the wars of the past decade or so. But the risk is that they will have to work harder for longer, quite possibly for less pay, because of what the powerful have done in their name. Divide and rule is the oldest trick in the book - whether used by imperial powers abroad or hate-mongers at home. Turn people against each other. Use race or religion or anything else you can find and hope they will be too distracted or consumed to take on the great inequalities of wealth and power in the world. For over a hundred years, the Labour Party of Keir Hardie, Ellen Wilkinson and Manny Shinwell has existed to offer working people another way: solidarity instead of division, equality instead of injustice, inclusion instead of isolation, internationalism instead of narrow nationalism, and human rights for all. But we cannot do our duty, if we do not look at ourselves as well. Say what you like about me, but Im no hypocrite. When I look in the mirror, it is less for sartorial elegance than to examine whats in my own eye before pointing out the specks in others. I urge others in politics to do the same. This is why I asked Shami Chakrabarti and her colleagues to take on the vital work of looking into our own Party before we criticise others. That is what she and her team have done. Ken Livingstone was suspended from the Labour Party after being accused of antisemitism (Getty Images) And Im here today to launch and recommend their work to our Party and to put my weight behind its immediate implementation. Under my leadership, the Labour Party will not allow hateful language or debate, in person, online or anywhere else. We will aim to set the gold standard, not just for anti-racism, but for a genuinely welcoming environment for all communities and for the right to disagreement as well. Racism is racism is racism. There is no hierarchy - no acceptable form of it. I have always fought it in all its forms and I always will. But while we respond to hate with universal principles we must also remember people's particular experience, if we are too ensure that not one person feels vulnerable or excluded from their natural political home. The Jewish community has made an enormous contribution to our Party and our country Jewish people have been at the heart of progressive and radical politics in Britain, as elsewhere, for well over a century. But they are also a minority amongst minorities and have had good cause to feel vulnerable and even threatened throughout history. This should never happen by accident or design in our Labour Party. Modern antisemitism may not always be about overt violence and persecution, though there is too much of that even to this day. We must also be vigilant against subtler and invidious manifestations of this nasty ancient hatred and avoid slipping into its traps by accident or intent. For the avoidance of doubt, I do not believe in name calling and I never have. Zio is a vile epithet that follows in a long line of earlier such terms that have no place in our Party. Nor should anyone indulge in the kind of stereotyping that can cause such hurt and harm. To assume that a Jewish friend or fellow member is wealthy, part of some kind of financial or media conspiracy, or takes a particular position on politics in general, or on Israel and Palestine in particular, is just wrong. Our Jewish friends are no more responsible for the actions of Israel or the Netanyahu Government than our Muslim friends are for those of various self-styled Islamic states or organisations. Nor should Muslims be regarded as sexist, antisemitic or otherwise suspect, as has become an ugly Islamophobic norm. We judge people on their individual values and actions, not en masse. Jeremy Corbyn meets with Rabbi Pinter (right) after delivering a speech on Labour's anti-Semitism inquiry findings at Savoy Place, London. (PA) No one should be expected either to condemn or defend the actions of foreign powers on account of their faith or race. At the same time, we should have the sensitivity to understand how upset many Labour party members and supporters are likely to feel about various human rights abuses around the world. Human rights language is so much more accurate and persuasive than the kind of language that was often resorted to in the Brexit debate. That is no doubt acceptable in other places and other parties, but it shouldnt be here, on my watch, or in our name. I will continue - as Labour Leader - to pursue the causes of peace and justice in Israel-Palestine, the wider Middle East and all over the world. But those who claim to do so with hateful or inflammatory language do no service to anyone, especially dispossessed and oppressed people in need of better advocacy. Of course we as Labour Party members must all be free to criticise and oppose injustice and abuse wherever we find it. But as today's Report recommends, can we please leave Hitler and Nazi metaphors alone (especially in the context of Israel). Why? Because the Shoah is still in people's family experience. If every human rights atrocity is described as a Holocaust, Hitler's attempted obliteration of the Jewish people is diminished or de-recognised in our history. Other human rights atrocities from African slavery to the killing fields of Cambodia, the Armenian and Rwandan Genocides are all of course to be remembered, but diluting their particularity or comparing degrees of evil does no good. Pursuing a more civil discourse does not in any way mean stifling free speech. I for one, will continue to meet, discuss and debate with all-comers in the cause of peace, progress, justice and human rights around the world. Though I acknowledge the need for the Partys Leader to spread his or her time around a greater range of issues, I do not believe that anyone should be judged for the platforms they share or the human rights causes they take up, as long as they fight hate with every breath. And to those who have been afraid of so-called witch-hunts by the press in recent months, those who perhaps worry that debate and speech around difficult and important issues risks being shut down in our Party: I commend and endorse the Report's recommendations about improving natural justice, transparency, consistency and accountability in the conduct of Party discipline. But not being racist and not being hateful is not enough for our Party to be the inclusive and vibrant political movement that Britain so sorely needs. If we are to unite and lead our country we must be the most welcoming and empowering place in which our diverse communities can prosper. I am very concerned about the Report's findings on how too many black and minority ethnic members of our party have felt for too long. We must act against long term special measures placing local parties under limited democracy. I will also take action with colleagues to seek to improve the representation of black and minority people at every level of staffing and leadership within the Labour Party. We will work with our Trade Union affiliates and others to achieve the best programme of activist and leadership education possible. We will talk, read, learn and organise together. We will learn from each other's personal experiences but also share each other's considerable campaigning and political skills. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn speaking at a Momentum event at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in central London. (PA) The last year - with all of its highs and lows - has left me with every confidence that Labour is has the potential to be a powerful and transformatory movement, capable of winning the next General Election (whenever it comes), and many more elections after that. But my confidence and optimism are not naive. We all know that despite the overwhelming mandate I was given by Labour party members and supporters last year - weve all had a torrid few days. Whatever now takes place in our party, politics should be conducted in a decent manner. When I stood for the leadership last summer I called for a kinder, gentler politics, thats still work in progress. Some people may equate leadership with nastiness. I disagree. Decency is no disqualification for leadership in fact it should be a pre-requisite. Those loyal to my leadership, and to Labour's core values, want to pursue the new politics with decency and civility, and see strength and not weakness in living those values. I ask Labour people to do as I do. To be kind and respectful to each other and our neighbours, and to be as courteous as we are courageous with our opponents. I believe that approach to be closer to the values of the British people than so much of what they have witnessed on the political stage over many recent years. I want to express huge thanks to Shami Chakrabarti, David Feldman and Jan Royall, as well as to Deok Joo Rhee and Godric Jolliffe and all who submitted their views and took part in this comprehensive exercise. Britain deserves better - so let's offer it. Come together as a party and then unite and lead our country through these incredibly challenging times." Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A Labour MP has accused Jeremy Corbyn of injecting unprecedented poison into his own party as calls continue for his resignation. Mr Corbyn made a defiant speech on Wednesday evening saying he had a peoples mandate to continue in his position, but Jamie Reed said David Cameron had earlier reflected the feelings of Labour MPs saying: For heavens sake man, go! The MP for Copeland released a vociferous letter to the Labour leader on social media urging him to muster the necessary dignity to follow the Prime Ministers example and step down. In the short time you have been Leader, along with the shadow Chancellor, you have sought to inject an unprecedented poison into our party, Mr Reed wrote. You have actively worked to divide Labour MPs from the Labour Party membershipyou have repeatedly incited you supporters on social media to confront Labour MPs; without doubt you are not fit to lead our great party. Noting Tuesdays vote of no confidence and a pleas from other Labour MPs and former leaders for Mr Corbyn to step down, Mr Reed accused him of refusing to acknowledge failures in Labours campaign for Britain to Remain in the European Union. He also alleged that Mr Corbyn had sponsored agitation amid fears for MPs safety and online abuse. The Labour Party will be fortunate to survive much more of your leadership and the best interests of the party will not be served at any election in which you remain in post, Mr Reed wrote. In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Show all 11 1 /11 In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Jonathan Reynolds,Shadow Railways Minister: RESIGNED He resigned as shadow railways minister in protest at the reasons for sacking Pat McFadden In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Kevan Jones, Shadow Defence Minister: RESIGNED He resigned as a shadow defence minister who strongly supports renewal of Trident. Has spoken out against Jeremy Corbyns leadership before and was also the centre of a row with Ken Livingstone after he said Jones might need some psychiatric help (Jones has previously spoken about his struggle with depression) In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Stephen Doughty, Shadow Foreign Minister: RESIGNED He quit as a shadow foreign minister in protest at the sacking of his colleague Pat McFadden as shadow Europe minister. He said he had looked at his own conscience and decided to step down In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Pat McFadden, Shadow Europe Minister: SACKED He was sacked as shadow Europe minister for "disloyalty" to leader Jeremy Corbyn In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Pat Glass, Shadow Europe Minister: SAFE Former junior shadow education minister Pat Glass replaced Pat McFadden as shadow Europe minister In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Emily Thornberry, Shadow Defence Secretary: SAFE She was promoted to shadow defence secretary. She is anti-Trident and therefore more in tune with Corbyns stance and replaces Maria Eagle, who was pro-Trident Getty In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Emma Lewell-Buck, Shadow Minister for Devolution and Local Government: SAFE Emma Lewell-Buck was promoted to shadow minister for devolution and local government In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Michael Dugher, Shadow Culture Secretary: SACKED Outspoken critic of Jeremy Corbyns leadership, has been sacked as shadow culture secretary for his "incompetence and disloyalty" In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Hilary Benn, Shadow Foreign Secretary: SAFE Hilary Benn remains as shadow foreign secretary, but Corbyns team has insisted his role now comes with new conditions that he must agree with Corbyn over foreign policy. Benn insists there are no new conditions attached to his job and insisted: "I haven't been muzzled. I'm going to be carrying on doing my job exactly as before In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Maria Eagle, Shadow Culture Secretary: SAFE Maria Eagle, moved from shadow defence to shadow culture secretary as part of Corbyns move to make his defence team match his anti-Trident views In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Andy Burnham, Shadow Home Secretary: SAFE Reports linked him to foreign secretary brief, but Corbyn appears to have backed down on sacking Hilary Benn. He does not see eye-to-eye with Corbyn on home affairs such as the Snoopers charter, but removing your shadow home secretary so soon after starting would have been a dangerous move by Corbyn You and those around you have deliberately chosen to poison the well of our national political discourse. For the benefit of our party, for the benefit of Labour voters, for the benefit of those millions who need a Labour government and for the sake of our national politics, your resignation cannot come soon enough. Conservative peer Lord Ashcroft was among those reacting to the letter on Twitter, while Mr Corbyns supporters called it shameful and malicious. Mr Reed has been vocal in his opposition to Mr Corbyns leadership. Then the shadow health minister, he was the first Labour MP to resign his post after his election in September. He made the announcement just a minute after the formal result, releasing what appeared to be a pre-prepared letter saying he could not support opposition to nuclear power. Watson on Corbyn His latest missive came hours after Mr Corbyn gave a defiant speech vowing to carry on as leader of the Labour Party. Speaking to supporters from the Momentum supporters in London on Wednesday evening, he insisted he had a people's mandate to remain. On Tuesday he lost a confidence vote from Labour MPs by 172 to 40 following the Brexit. Dozens MPs, including several members of the shadow cabinet, have resigned since Mr Corbyn sacked shadow Foreign Secretary Hilary Benn in the early hours of Sunday morning, after Mr Benn told him MPs did not believe he was able to win an election. Mr Corbyn is expected to face a challenge from shadow business secretary Angela Eagle, who will announce her intentions on Thursday amid reports she is preparing to run as a unity candidate. Labours deputy leader, Tom Watson, said he believed an impending leadership election was inevitable following calls from prominent figures including Ed Miliband, Gordon Brown and Harriet Harman. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} One of Jeremy Corbyns most prominent allies has compared the Parliamentary Labour Party to a lynch mob without the rope as the Labour leader resists calls to resign. Addressing Momentum supporters at London's School of African and Oriental Studies (SOAS) on Wednesday evening, John McDonnell said the turmoil in his party amounted to a battle for democracy. The shadow Chancellor said: Jeremy won a mandate last summer and there are a handful of MPs who couldn't accept that mandate - we've been expecting a coup any time since then. Watson on Corbyn "They said we couldn't win parliamentary seats but in every parliamentary by-election we have increased the Labour majority. "The Parliamentary Labour Party meeting - it's not a meeting to enjoy. It was like a lynch mob without the rope. "MP after MP was getting up telling Jeremy to resign." Mr McDonnell is among a dwindling group of Mr Corbyns allies after he lost a confidence vote by Labour MPs by 172 to 40 following the vote for a Brexit. He has refused to resign, insisting he still has a people's mandate to lead following his landslide victory in the Labour leadership elections last summer. More than 60 MPs including several members of the shadow cabinet have resigned since Mr Corbyn sacked shadow Foreign Secretary Hilary Benn in the early hours of Sunday morning, after Mr Benn told him MPs did not believe he was able to win an election. In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Show all 11 1 /11 In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Jonathan Reynolds,Shadow Railways Minister: RESIGNED He resigned as shadow railways minister in protest at the reasons for sacking Pat McFadden In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Kevan Jones, Shadow Defence Minister: RESIGNED He resigned as a shadow defence minister who strongly supports renewal of Trident. Has spoken out against Jeremy Corbyns leadership before and was also the centre of a row with Ken Livingstone after he said Jones might need some psychiatric help (Jones has previously spoken about his struggle with depression) In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Stephen Doughty, Shadow Foreign Minister: RESIGNED He quit as a shadow foreign minister in protest at the sacking of his colleague Pat McFadden as shadow Europe minister. He said he had looked at his own conscience and decided to step down In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Pat McFadden, Shadow Europe Minister: SACKED He was sacked as shadow Europe minister for "disloyalty" to leader Jeremy Corbyn In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Pat Glass, Shadow Europe Minister: SAFE Former junior shadow education minister Pat Glass replaced Pat McFadden as shadow Europe minister In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Emily Thornberry, Shadow Defence Secretary: SAFE She was promoted to shadow defence secretary. She is anti-Trident and therefore more in tune with Corbyns stance and replaces Maria Eagle, who was pro-Trident Getty In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Emma Lewell-Buck, Shadow Minister for Devolution and Local Government: SAFE Emma Lewell-Buck was promoted to shadow minister for devolution and local government In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Michael Dugher, Shadow Culture Secretary: SACKED Outspoken critic of Jeremy Corbyns leadership, has been sacked as shadow culture secretary for his "incompetence and disloyalty" In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Hilary Benn, Shadow Foreign Secretary: SAFE Hilary Benn remains as shadow foreign secretary, but Corbyns team has insisted his role now comes with new conditions that he must agree with Corbyn over foreign policy. Benn insists there are no new conditions attached to his job and insisted: "I haven't been muzzled. I'm going to be carrying on doing my job exactly as before In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Maria Eagle, Shadow Culture Secretary: SAFE Maria Eagle, moved from shadow defence to shadow culture secretary as part of Corbyns move to make his defence team match his anti-Trident views In pictures: Jeremy Corbyn reshuffle Andy Burnham, Shadow Home Secretary: SAFE Reports linked him to foreign secretary brief, but Corbyn appears to have backed down on sacking Hilary Benn. He does not see eye-to-eye with Corbyn on home affairs such as the Snoopers charter, but removing your shadow home secretary so soon after starting would have been a dangerous move by Corbyn Some voiced their concern over his ability to unite MPs, while others cited Labours failure to sway voters to Remain in the EU referendum. Mr McDonnell said: If Jeremy had walked on water during the (referendum) campaign he would have been blamed for the loss. What we are watching is a leadership coup. "We have been trying to explain to some members of the PLP there's a recent Greek invention and it's called democracy. "What democracy means is that people come together with each having a vote, and when that vote has a majority, that decision should be abided by - this is a battle for democracy." Leading unions have also given their support, urging Labour MPs to respect the authority of Mr Corbyn as party leader. Mr Corbyn leaves his home (PA) In a joint statement, the leaders of Unite, Unison, the GMB, UCATT, the CWU, the TSSA, ASLEF, the FBU, the BFWAU and the NUM said Mr Corbyn was the democratically-elected leader of Labour and his position should not be challenged except through the proper democratic procedures provided for in the party's constitution. "The current crisis within the Parliamentary Labour Party is deeply regrettable and unnecessary, it said. "It cannot be right to seek to denude the Labour front bench at this time, when the Government more than ever needs to be scrutinised and held to account by an effective and united opposition that does the job it is paid to do. Mr Corbyn made a defiant speech at the same event, saying his mandate was gained by hundreds of thousands of ordinary people joining in the political process. He was briefly heckled, with one man yelling: What about Europe? Where were you when we needed you? Angela Eagle was expected to announce her intentions to challenge Mr Corbyn for the Labour leadership if he does not resign by Thursday afternoon. Labours deputy leader, Tom Watson, said he believed an impending leadership election was inevitable following calls from prominent figures including Ed Miliband, Gordon Brown and Harriet Harman. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The party activist who berated a Jewish Labour MP in the latest episode in Labours internal turmoil claims: I am an ally of the Jewish people. Marc Wadsworth, who was a prominent Labour Party activist during the early 1980s, said that he did not know that the Labour Ruth Smeeth is a Jew when he attacked her by name at the launch of an investigation into anti-semitism. The incident flared up as Jeremy Corbyn presented the results of an internal inquiry into alleged anti-semitism in the party. Jeremy Corbyn 'compares Israeli state to Isis' Mr Wadsworth was handing out a newsletter which accused Labour MPs who have expressed no confidence in Jeremy Corbyn of being self-indulgent and divisive. It urged that should be deselected and replaced with socialists who will fight for the ordinary people. The newsletter named two of Mr Corbyns critics, Angela Eagle and Gloria de Piero, accusing them of ignoring opinion in their constituency parties. Before the launch, there was a brief exchange between Mr Wadsworth and Ruth Smeeth, who identified herself as one of the dozens of MPs who have resigned their positions on Labours front bench after losing confidence in Mr Corbyns leadership. During the launch, a Daily Telegraph journalist, Kate McCann, asked Mr Corbyn what he thought about a call for deselection being distributed at the event. Mr Wadsworth said afterwards: Jeremy said something flim-flammy that he didnt support abuse and people must be respectful. I thought he could have been more robust than that, and said that people have strong views and its about freedom of speech and what about the Telegraph working hand in glove with that Labour MP Ruth Smeeth. Thats the sort of company theyre keeping, these MPs. I didnt have a clue that Ruth Smeeth is Jewish. Ive never been called anti-semitic in my life . Ive fought against anti-semitism and racism. During the anti-apartheid struggle, I fought alongside the Jewish Board of Deputies. The Jewish people have an ally in me. Mr Wadsworth, who runs a website the-latest.com, was a prominent party activist in the early 1980s, when there were no black or Asians in the House of Commons. He was an organiser of the Black Sections, who campaigned for Labour to impose all-black shortlists when candidates were being chosen in safe seats with large ethnic minority populations. He resigned from the Labour Party in protest against the Iraq War, but rejoined a month ago. He denies that he is a member of the pro-Corbyn pressure group Momentum. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A Jewish Labour MP has left Jeremy Corbyns launch of an antisemitism report in tears after being accused of colluding with the right-wing press. The embattled Labour leader made a speech outlining the results of a report by the former director of Liberty saying that claiming Jewish people were part of some kind of media conspiracyis just wrong. But a man handing out leaflets linked to Momentum, an activist group that supports Mr Corbyn, then verbally attacked Ruth Smeeth. Jeremy Corbyn 'compares Israeli state to Isis' Witnesses said the campaigner accused the Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent North and Kidsgrove of colluding with the right-wing media, after refusing to hand a leaflet to Ms Smeeth and taking down her name. Ms Smeeth said she was verbally attacked and accused of being part of a media conspiracy. It is beyond belief that someone could come to the launch of a report on antisemitism in the Labour Party and espouse such vile conspiracy theories about Jewish people, which were ironically highlighted as such in Ms Chakrabarti's report, while the leader of my own party stood by and did absolutely nothing, she added. People like this have no place in our party or our movement and must be opposed. The MP called for Mr Corbyn to resign after the incident, saying he failed to intervene. Until today I had made no public comment about Jeremys ability to lead our party, but the fact that he failed to intervene is final proof for me that he is unfit to lead, and that a Labour Party under his stewardship cannot be a safe space for British Jews, Ms Smeeth added. I have written to the General Secretary of the Labour Party and the Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party to formally complain about this mornings events. "No-one from the Leaders office has contacted me since the event, which is itself a catastrophic failure of leadership. I call on Jeremy Corbyn to resign immediately and make way for someone with the backbone to confront racism and antisemitism in our party and in the country." Footage showed the man - Marc Wadsworth - calling a journalist from the Daily Telegraph a trouble-maker after she asked him whether he wanted to apologise. His press release, claiming to be from Momentum Black Connexions, called for the deselection of Labour traitors who are calling for Mr Corbyn to resign in the wake of the EU referendum. Mr Wadsworth told The Independent he did not know Ms Smeeth was Jewish, adding: "I've never been called antisemitic in my life." Questions Mr Corbyn's leadership were reportedly banned at Thursdays event, when Mr Corbyn made no direct mention of the unfolding crisis. He was heavily criticised for appearing to compare the Israeli state and terrorist groups including Isis in the speech. Modern antisemitism may not always be about overt violence and persecution, though there is too much of that even to this day. We must also be vigilant against subtler and invidious manifestations of this nasty ancient hatred and avoid slipping into its traps by accident or intent, Mr Corbyn said. Our Jewish friends are no more responsible for the actions of Israel or the Netanyahu government than our Muslim friends are for those of various self-styled Islamic states or organisations. Many listeners equated Mr Corbyns comments with a direct comparison between the Israeli government and Isis, which calls itself the Islamic State, although several other terrorist groups use the similar phrases. Sam Stopp, a Labour councillor in Wembley, said Mr Corbyn had compared Israel to Isis, writing on Twitter: "For that alone, he should resign. I am red with fury. When challenged on the remark, the Labour leader said of course Im not drawing links between the two. Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said Show all 14 1 /14 Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Israel and Palestine The simple fact in all of this is that Naz made these comments at a time when there was another brutal Israeli attack on the Palestinians; and theres one stark fact that virtually no one in the British media ever reports, in almost all these conflicts the death toll is usually between 60 and 100 Palestinians killed for every Israeli. Now, any other country doing that would be accused of war crimes but its like we have a double standard about the policies of the Israeli government Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Antisemitism in the Labour Party As Ive said, Ive never heard anybody say anything antisemitism-Semitic, but theres been a very well-orchestrated campaign by the Israel lobby to smear anybody who criticises Israeli policy as antisemitic. I had to put up with 35 years of this Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Naz Shah Its completely over-the-top and rude, but who am I to denounce anyone with all of that. It was wrong. I dont think she is antisemitic, it was incredibly rude but I dont believe she is an antisemite. When the NEC investigation is finished they'll say it was rude and over the top but they wont find any evidence that she actually hates Jews. Weve got to investigate all these charges and the context in which they are made. If she is antisemitic like the other three or four members weve found who are antisemitic, shell be expelled Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On other alleged antisemites in Labour That is part of the classic antisemitic thing about an international Jewish conspiracy that is the reason we need to have an investigation. Ive got an open mind. Ive seen nothing to suggest to me that she is antisemitic. I wouldnt have supported her if I [thought] she was antisemitic Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On whether what Hitler did was legal, as stated by Naz Shah Thats a statement of fact Hitler, Im sure, passed all those laws that allowed him to do that its history literally, Hitler was completely mad, he killed six million Jews. Shes not saying its legal to kill six million Jews: what they were doing in that country allowed them not just to kill six million Jews, kill all the communists, kill all the leftists like me, my father almost died when a Nazi sub sank his boat. I have no sympathy with Hitler Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On another alleged antisemite in Labour No, that is, and thats why shes been suspended or expelled. What Ive said is that in 47 years of the party in all the meetings Ive been in Ive never heard anyone say anything antisemitic. There are bound to be in a party of half a million people youll have a handful of antisemites, youll have a handful of racists. Youve managed to dig out virtually every antisemitic comment that Labour members have made out of half a million people. Ive never met any of these people. Theres not a problem. Youre talking about a handful of people in a party of half a million people. Jeremy Corbyn has moved rapidly to deal with them Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On Jeremy Corbyns response to the allegations He met with Naz and she agreed she would stand down while the investigation is going on. He called her in to see her. Theres been a huge investigation of virtually everything that anybody put on the internet many of these people are quite new and recent members of the party that joined in the big influx. 300,000 new people came in Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On his meeting a man accused of antisemitism in London This is the man who called for Muslims around the world to donate blood after the attacks of 9/11 when he came to London I went with him to the Regents Park mosque where he said no man should hit a woman and you should not discriminate against homosexuals. So I cant equate what I heard him say he made no antisemitic statement while he was here in London. I dont investigate people. Ive simply said what I believe to be true which is that Naz was not antisemitic. She was completely over the top, very rude, but that does not make her an antisemite Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On John Manns comments He went completely over the top. I was actually doing a radio interview at the time that he was bellowing that Im a racist antisemite in my ear. Ive had that with John Mann before a few weeks ago screaming that I was a bigot down the phone. Im not an apologist for anyone who makes antisemitic statements. What Im saying is dont confuse antisemitism with criticism of the Israeli government policy Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On calling a Jewish journalist a concentration camp guard whilst Mayor of London I cant tell if a journalist is Jewish or Catholic or anything. If a journalist is chasing you down the street at nine of clock at night you might be rude to them. Some people might have hit him! He said he was just doing his job. We went all the way to the High Court and the judge opened his judgement by saying I hope no one here is going to suggest that Mr Livingstone is antisemitic. We won the case Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On claims about Hitler and Zionism I cant tell if a journalist is Jewish or Catholic or anything. If a journalist is chasing you down the street at nine of clock at night you might be rude to them. Some people might have hit him! He said he was just doing his job. We went all the way to the High Court and the judge opened his judgement by saying I hope no one here is going to suggest that Mr Livingstone is antisemitic. We won the case Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On John Mann Id simply say to John Mann go back and check. Is what I say true, or is it not? The BBC, youve got a huge team of researchers, it will take just an hour or two to go back and confirm. I was asked a question, I answered it. I have never in 45 years since I won my first election, I have never lied. I have always answered the question Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On raising the issue if Hitler It lays you open to people smearing and lying about you. Ive always answered the questions put to me and that simple fact is weve had a handful of people saying antisemitic things in the Labour Party, theyve been suspended, some of them are on their way to being expelled, some of them have been expelled already Labour antisemitism row: What Livingstone said On people calling for him to be suspended All my usual critics but the simple fact is I agree with them; there is no place for antisemitism in the Labour party. For them to suggest I am antisemitic is a bit bizarre considering we worked with Jewish groups and put on exhibitions about the scale of the holocaust, we worked with Jewish groups to tackling the scale of antisemitism back in the 1970s. Ive always opposed every form of racism whether its against black people or Jews. Im going to stay in the Labour party and continue to fight against all forms of racism and discrimination as I have my entire life In the report it says that you shouldnt say to somebody just because youre Jewish you must have an opinion on Israel, just as much as you shouldnt say to a Muslim that you must have an opinion on Isis, he added. Supporters said Mr Corbyn was rightly saying Muslims and Jews should not be held responsible for groups or states claiming to represent them, and was being unfairly criticised. The report followed controversy over a Facebook post made by Naz Shah, the Labour MP for Bradford West, claims made by Ken Livingstone that Adolf Hitler supporter Zionism and a wave of suspensions in the party. A spokesperson for Mr Corbyn told The Independent: He is explicitly stating that people should not be held responsible for the actions of states or organisations around the world on the basis of religion or ethnicity. The report, which followed controversy over a Facebook post made by Naz Shah, the Labour MP for Bradford West, claims made by Ken Livingstone that Adolf Hitler supporter Zionism and a wave of suspensions in the party. Ms Chakrabarti's inquiry made 20 recommendations but she said she does not approve of lifetime bans for party membership. The report said racial or religious stereotypes had no place in the Labour Party and that its leadership must introduce new sanctions for members accused of antisemitism other than suspension or expulsion. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} People are joining the Liberal Democrats at a rate of one a minute following leader Tim Farrons committment to fight to rejoin the EU. The party reports over 10,000 people have joined the party since Mr Farron made the announcement, pushing its total membership above 70,000. In a statement the Liberal Democrats said people have been joining the only UK party to continue to fight for our EU future. Tim Farron attacks Michael Gove The party claims some of its new members voted Leave during the referendum but were appalled by the economic and political chaos that has followed, as well as the broken promises of Boris Johnson, Michael Gove and Nigel Farage. They quoted an unnamed supporter who said he had turned his back on the Conservatives as he can never again support a party prepared to play roulette with the countrys future. Mr Farron said: I dont blame those who were duped: I blame those who lied. If the Conservatives had a shred of decency, they would set about fixing the economy they broke. Protesters have called for independence for London if Britain leaves (PA) Yet the Chancellor shrugs that it is not his responsibility to have a Brexit plan even though he and David Cameron were the brains behind this risky referendum while Boris Johnson has sounded, perhaps more predictably, clueless. Mr Farron was one of several speakers who addressed a London Stays protest in Trafalgar Square where thousands of young people gathered to protest against the Brexit vote. The Leave side narrowly won the referendum on Britains continued EU membership with 52 per cent of the vote. Brexit reactions in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit reactions in pictures Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign look at their phones after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall AP Brexit reactions in pictures Leave supporters cheer results at a Leave.eu party after polling stations closed in the Referendum on the European Union in London Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Mr Cameron announces his resignation to supporters Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Donald Tusk proposes that the 27 remaining EU member states start a wider reflection on the future of our union Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage greets his supporters on College Green in Westminster, after Britain voted to leave the European Union PA Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as referendum results are announced today Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Boris Johnson leaves his home today to discover a crowd of waiting journalists and police officers Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Leave EU supporters celebrate as they watch the British EU Referendum results being televised at Millbank Tower in London Rex Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as results of the EU referendum are announced at the Royal Festival Hall Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign react after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall PA Remain supporters, dubbed the 48 per cent, have called for a second referendum after they accused both Leave campaigns of misleading the public. It comes after several Leave voters have come forward saying they regretted their vote and would vote for Remain if given a second chance. London, Scotland and Northern Ireland voted Remain, but the rest of England and Wales, which has a greater combined population, voted to leave. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Michael Gove is an unfashionable man. When I first met him at the BBC in the 1990s, he was not just a Scottish Conservative, but a Scottish Thatcherite. With his demeanour as the younger son of an Edwardian gentleman, he seemed wholly out of place in modern Britain, a liberal country preparing itself to turn to New Labour. He sensed that politics was changing. When I was writing a biography of Tony Blair, Labours new leader of the opposition, he was writing one of Michael Portillo. Gove thought Portillo was the future of the right. But before the book was published, Portillo balked at challenging John Major. He gained a reputation as a bottler, something Gove could not be accused of today, because in the days before mobile phones new phone lines had been laid into the Westminster house of a backer to prepare for a leadership bid. Gove continued to admire Portillo, but was also taken by Blair. So much so that it was said he thought of joining the Labour Party in 1997. If so, he decided against it. As a columnist and an editor at The Times, he was mostly a trenchant critic of New Labour. He also got to know Rupert Murdoch, the newspapers owner, who still likes him, as Sarah Vine, Goves wife, inadvertently revealed in a leaked email this week. The 5 contenders for Prime Minister His columns were sometimes contrary, and his espousal of unfashionable causes has left a trail of potential embarrassments in the electronic record. There was the column that made the case for the death penalty, for example, with only the thinnest veil of writing it as an intellectual exercise. Then in February 2003, on the eve of the invasion of Iraq, came what he called his Elizabeth Bennett moment. He wrote in The Times: By God, its still hard to write this, but Im afraid Ive got to be honest. Tony Blair is proving an outstanding Prime Minister at the moment. Having followed Portillos modernising journey from the SAS right to the liberal centre, Gove now became a Blairite at just the moment when the British nation passed him in the opposite direction. When the Tory modernisers finally captured the commanding heights of the Tory party, with David Cameron becoming leader in December 2005, Gove, a new MP elected that year, became a trusted friend in the leadership eyrie. He was an attendant lord to the Great Outflanking Manoeuvre of the Centre Ground, namely Camerons splitting the Labour Party by being more Blairite than Blair (and therefore Gordon Brown) on academy schools. The favourites in the Tory leadership race Show all 5 1 /5 The favourites in the Tory leadership race The favourites in the Tory leadership race Theresa May The longest-serving Home Secretary in 100 years took a back seat in the referendum campaign. While backing Remain, she did not hit the campaign trail and delivered only a handful of speeches and interviews, and was critical of many aspects of the EU, particularly the European Convention on Human Rights. Hedging her bets allows her to now emerge as a unity candidate, and she is said to have been building up her back-room staff in preparation for a leadership bid. She has the significant advantage of having served in one of the great offices of state, in a steady and competent manner that has won her many admirers within party and the civil service. At a time of great instability, it may be that she is viewed as steady hand on the tiller. Mrs May does however, lack the star quality of a Boris Johnson and party members may doubt her ability to connect with ordinary voters PA The favourites in the Tory leadership race Michael Gove The Justice Secretary may be able to set himself up as the thinking Torys Brexit candidate. Made an enormous political and personal decision to back Leave, taking on his old friend David Cameron. He performed well during the TV debates, and will be an admired figure among Eurosceptic Conservatives. Along with Johnson, he will be hindered by the fact that he led a very divisive campaign, characterised by blue-on-blue action. MPs may also judge that he lacks Boris Johnsons wider appeal with the electorate. Possibly more likely that he will settle for being his new bosom buddy Boriss Chancellor Getty The favourites in the Tory leadership race Stephen Crabb Highly-rated Work and Pensions Secretary, raised on a council estate, so could reach out to non-traditional working class Tory voters Getty Images The favourites in the Tory leadership race Andrea Leadsom Minister of State for Energy at the Department of Energy and Climate Change is one of the most prominent figures in the Leave campaign, seen to have performed well in TV debates Rex Features The favourites in the Tory leadership race Liam Fox British Conservative MP and former Secretary of State for Defence, as sources said he will stand for the leadership of the Conservative Party AFP/Getty It was a difficult operation in which David Willetts was unable to finesse the Tory partys grammar-school wing, and so Gove replaced him as education spokesman. Thus Gove became Education Secretary, charged with putting rocket boosters under the academies programme. He was a brilliant reformer, committed to education as an egalitarian liberation, and yet he managed to make what should have been a unifying cause not just unfashionable but deeply unpopular. So hostile did teachers and parents become to him that Cameron took the brave decision to sacrifice his friend for the sake of the Government. Some observers thought that Goves betrayal of Cameron over Brexit another unfashionable cause Gove espoused was revenge for this slight. The truth is more complicated. Gove was sore about his demotion to the unhappy chores of Chief Whip as Sarah Vine, again, revealed but Gove himself appears to have thought that he could advocate leaving the EU and stay friends with the Prime Minister and the Chancellor. With the Prime Minister, no. But the Chancellors position is, again, more complicated. George Osborne has entertained Gove and Vine at Dorneywood more than once even after Gove announced that he would be advocating Leave. Having sought to reassure Cameron that he would take a low profile in the Leave campaign, Gove then became in effect deputy leader to Boris Johnson in the shadow Leave government, vigorously making the case for Brexit. He and Johnson deployed their rhetorical skills as columnists, making speeches as if they were articles for The Times and The Telegraph designed to provoke the smug bourgeois of the Remain side. But now Johnson and Gove have fallen out too. For one of the most extravagantly polite people I have known, Gove has a remarkable ability to make enemies. One of his greatest feuds in Government has been with Theresa May. Most recently, he clashed with the Home Office over the prison services contract with Saudi Arabia. Whoever wins this contest, the post-Brexit, post-leadership election reconciliation reshuffle is going to be prickly. For a man who has espoused unfashionable causes all his life Scottish Thatcherism, the Iraq war and Brexit Gove now hopes that the unfashionable candidate is going to surprise them all once more. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Theresa May has launched her bid to become the next leader of the Tory party - with a dig at Boris Johnson and his ability to lead the country in Brexit negotiations. Speaking before Mr Johnson announced he would not be running to be the next Prime Minister, the Home Secretary presented herself as a reliable candidate who had the negotiating experience to do the job "from day one". And she contrasted that with Mr Johnson, who delt with the threat of London riots when he was mayor by purchasing a number of second-hand water cannon which were never used. "Boris negotiated in Europe," she said. "I seem to remember last time he did a deal with the Germans, he came back with three nearly-new water cannon." Though she was an at-times reluctant Remain campaigner, Ms May said she believed there could be no second EU referendum. She said that, contrary to the wishes of the European Parliament, she would not begin the formal process of Brexit until at least the start of next year. In another sideways criticism of the Eton-educated former London Mayor, Ms May said politics was not a "game". She said: "If you are from an ordinary working class family, life is just much harder than many people in politics realise. "You have a job but you don't always have job security, you have your own home but you worry about mortgage rates going up, you can just about manage but you worry about the cost of living and the quality of the local school because there is no other choice for you. "Frankly, not everybody in Westminster understands what it's like to live like this and some need to be told that it isn't a game. It's a serious business that has real consequences for people's lives." It now seems that Ms May's attacks on Mr Johnson were not required. Read more on an extraordinary day in politics in our live blog. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Theresa May has officially launched her campaign for Conservative party leader, ruling out calling an early general election or second EU referendum. The Home Secretary also said the EU's article 50 provision to formally start the Brexit process should not be invoked until next year at the earliest. She argued that the country needed "strong leadership and a clear sense of direction" in the coming years. "I want to use this opportunity to make several things clear. First, Brexit means Brexit the public gave their verdict. There must be no attempts to remain inside the EU, no attempts to rejoin it through the backdoor, and no second referendum," she said at a press conference. "Second, there should be no general election until 2020. There should be a normal autumn statement held in the normal way, at the normal time, and no emergency budget. "And there should be no decision to invoke article 50 before the British negotiating strategy is agreed and clear, which means article 50 should not be invoked until the end of this year." She also added that she would not push for Britain to leave the European Convention on Human Rights, a policy she previously flirted with. On freedom of movement, the Home Secretary said that voters had sent a clear message that they wanted restrictions on immigration. The favourites in the Tory leadership race Show all 5 1 /5 The favourites in the Tory leadership race The favourites in the Tory leadership race Theresa May The longest-serving Home Secretary in 100 years took a back seat in the referendum campaign. While backing Remain, she did not hit the campaign trail and delivered only a handful of speeches and interviews, and was critical of many aspects of the EU, particularly the European Convention on Human Rights. Hedging her bets allows her to now emerge as a unity candidate, and she is said to have been building up her back-room staff in preparation for a leadership bid. She has the significant advantage of having served in one of the great offices of state, in a steady and competent manner that has won her many admirers within party and the civil service. At a time of great instability, it may be that she is viewed as steady hand on the tiller. Mrs May does however, lack the star quality of a Boris Johnson and party members may doubt her ability to connect with ordinary voters PA The favourites in the Tory leadership race Michael Gove The Justice Secretary may be able to set himself up as the thinking Torys Brexit candidate. Made an enormous political and personal decision to back Leave, taking on his old friend David Cameron. He performed well during the TV debates, and will be an admired figure among Eurosceptic Conservatives. Along with Johnson, he will be hindered by the fact that he led a very divisive campaign, characterised by blue-on-blue action. MPs may also judge that he lacks Boris Johnsons wider appeal with the electorate. Possibly more likely that he will settle for being his new bosom buddy Boriss Chancellor Getty The favourites in the Tory leadership race Stephen Crabb Highly-rated Work and Pensions Secretary, raised on a council estate, so could reach out to non-traditional working class Tory voters Getty Images The favourites in the Tory leadership race Andrea Leadsom Minister of State for Energy at the Department of Energy and Climate Change is one of the most prominent figures in the Leave campaign, seen to have performed well in TV debates Rex Features The favourites in the Tory leadership race Liam Fox British Conservative MP and former Secretary of State for Defence, as sources said he will stand for the leadership of the Conservative Party AFP/Getty She however said she would like Britain to remain in the single market if it restricted freedom of movement. All countries with full access to the European single market currently have freedom of movement with the EU as a whole. EU officials have in recent days signaled that this is unlikely to change. Ms May launched her campaign just minutes after Michael Gove and Andrew Leadsom announced theirs. Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb launched his yesterday. Former Mayor of London Boris Johnson, long the favourite to succeed David Cameron, is also expected to enter the fray. Nominations for the Conservative leadership election close today, having opened yesterday. MPs need only two nominations each to enter the race. Rounds of voting then take place amongst MPs only, with the weakest candidate knocked out at every stage. The remaining two candidates are then put to the party membership at large. This is expected to happen in early September. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Conservative party has collapsed into accusations of betrayal and treachery as the partys first leadership contest in a decade gets underway. Tensions are high after Boris Johnson sensationally dropped out of the race at the first hurdle following a shock intervention against his leadership from cabinet minister Michael Gove. The abrupt end to the former Mayor of Londons campaign comes after an acrimonious EU referendum campaign during which he was perceived as waging a proxy war for the leadership against David Cameron. In an extraordinary tirade, Michael Hesletine, a former cabinet minister, said Mr Johnson had caused chaos in the country only to back down at the last minute. I have never seen anything like it. Hes ripped the Tory party apart, he as created the greatest constitutional crisis in peacetime in my life, he said during a visit to a housing policy conference in Manchester. Hes knocked billions off the value of the savings of British people. Hes like a general who marches his army to the sound of the guns and the moment he sees the battleground he abandons it. I have never seen anything like it and he must be answerable for the consequences. But the pain of it will be felt by all of us, and if it doesnt get resolved shortly, by generations yet to come. Tensions were also short on Mr Johnsons own side, however. Jake Berry, a Conservative MP in the inner circle of the former mayors leadership campaign, tweeted with reference to Mr Gove: There is a very deep pit reserved in Hell for such as he. Former Deputy Prime Minister Michael Heseltine (Getty Images) It follows accusations of betrayal by Mr Johnsons father Stanley Johnson. Asked about Mr Gove's intervention, he quoted Caesar's supposed last words after he was stabbed by his former friend Brutus. 'Et tu Brute' is my comment on that, he told BBC Radio 4's The World at One. I don't think he is called Brutus, but you never know. Mr Gove on Thursday afternoon again repeated accusations that Mr Johnson could not provide the team captaincy required to lead the Conservative party and the country. The favourites in the Tory leadership race Show all 5 1 /5 The favourites in the Tory leadership race The favourites in the Tory leadership race Theresa May The longest-serving Home Secretary in 100 years took a back seat in the referendum campaign. While backing Remain, she did not hit the campaign trail and delivered only a handful of speeches and interviews, and was critical of many aspects of the EU, particularly the European Convention on Human Rights. Hedging her bets allows her to now emerge as a unity candidate, and she is said to have been building up her back-room staff in preparation for a leadership bid. She has the significant advantage of having served in one of the great offices of state, in a steady and competent manner that has won her many admirers within party and the civil service. At a time of great instability, it may be that she is viewed as steady hand on the tiller. Mrs May does however, lack the star quality of a Boris Johnson and party members may doubt her ability to connect with ordinary voters PA The favourites in the Tory leadership race Michael Gove The Justice Secretary may be able to set himself up as the thinking Torys Brexit candidate. Made an enormous political and personal decision to back Leave, taking on his old friend David Cameron. He performed well during the TV debates, and will be an admired figure among Eurosceptic Conservatives. Along with Johnson, he will be hindered by the fact that he led a very divisive campaign, characterised by blue-on-blue action. MPs may also judge that he lacks Boris Johnsons wider appeal with the electorate. Possibly more likely that he will settle for being his new bosom buddy Boriss Chancellor Getty The favourites in the Tory leadership race Stephen Crabb Highly-rated Work and Pensions Secretary, raised on a council estate, so could reach out to non-traditional working class Tory voters Getty Images The favourites in the Tory leadership race Andrea Leadsom Minister of State for Energy at the Department of Energy and Climate Change is one of the most prominent figures in the Leave campaign, seen to have performed well in TV debates Rex Features The favourites in the Tory leadership race Liam Fox British Conservative MP and former Secretary of State for Defence, as sources said he will stand for the leadership of the Conservative Party AFP/Getty Home Secretary Theresa May also took an apparent swipe at the former mayor this morning, writing: "Some need to be told that what the government does isnt a game, its a serious business that has real consequences for peoples lives." Mr Johnson's departure from the race leaves Ms May as the favourite to win the race. She launched her leadership campaign this morning. The shock news comes after George Osborne, who was previously seen as the anointed successor to David Cameron, ruled himself out of the race following the EU referendum result. Though Mr Johnson is popular amongst Conservative party activists, the party's internal electoral system allows MPs to pick which two candidates their members can vote between. Other candidates to declare in the race so far include Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb, former defence secretary Liam Fox, and Andrea Leadsom. The leadership election was called after Mr Cameron announced his resignation in the aftermath of the EU referendum result. The Prime Minister said it was right that a new Prime Minister should steer Britain's exit from the European Union and invoke article 50. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A Theresa May government would hand the job of Secretary of State for Brexit to an MP who campaigned to leave the EU, the Tory leadership hopeful will pledge. Ms May, who campaigned for Britain to Remain, will present herself as the unity candidate to bring the Conservative Party and the country back together after the bitter divisions created by the EU referendum. When formally announcing her leadership challenge, the Home Secretary will pledge to set up a new Government department responsible for conducting Britains negotiations with the EU, and forging the terms of a new relationship outside of the bloc. In a unifying gesture, she will commit to appoint an MP who backed Brexit to lead the department holding out the possibility that senior Leave campaigners Boris Johnson, Michael Gove or Liam Fox could spearhead talks in Brussels, even under a Government led by Ms May. Nominations for the Conservative leadership close at midday on Thursday. The candidates so far declared include Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb, who backed Remain, and former Defence Secretary Mr Fox. Boris Johnson, who was Vote Leaves figurehead, will also launch his campaign on Thursday. He is thought to have attracted the support of more than 100 MPs, mostly from the Leave camp but also among Remain campaigners. Backed by the Justice Secretary Michael Gove, Mr Johnson is viewed as the candidate to beat, but tensions between the two Leave campaigners were laid bare when an email from Mr Goves wife emerged, urging his camp to secure specific assurances from Mr Johnson or withhold their support. The email, which was seen by Sky News, from the Daily Mail columnist Sarah Vine, who is married to Mr Gove, appears to have been sent to the Justice Secretary and his team. Sent on Tuesday morning, it reads: Very important that we focus now on the individual obstacles and thoroughly overcome them before moving to the next. I really think Michael needs to have a Henry or a Beth [Mr Goves advisors] with him for this mornings crucial meetings. Sarah Vine and Michael Gove earlier this year. The leaked email was sent from Ms Vine to her husband and his aides (PA) One simple message: you MUST have SPECIFIC assurances from Boris OTHERWISE you cannot guarantee your support. The details can be worked out later on, but without that you have no leverage. Crucially the membership will not have the necessary reassurance to back Boris, neither will Dacre/Murdoch [Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre and News UK chief Rupert Murdoch], who instinctively dislike Boris but trust your ability enough to support a Boris/Gove ticket. Do not concede any ground. Be your stubborn best. GOOD LUCK. It was unclear what assurances Mr Gove has sought from Mr Johnson. His spokespeople declined to comment on the contents of the private email, which is understood to have been copied accidentally to a member of the public, and then passed on to Sky News. However, the revelation that Mr Gove considers himself invaluable to Mr Johnson because he can curry favour with Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre, and Rupert Murdoch, the head of News Corp which owns The Sun and The Times, will reignite questions over media influence in politics and could be seized on by Mr Johnsons leadership rivals. Other challengers for the Tory crown could still include Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Education Secretary Nicky Morgan, both Remain backers, and energy minister Andrea Leadsom, who campaigned prominently for Leave. Brexit reactions in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit reactions in pictures Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign look at their phones after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall AP Brexit reactions in pictures Leave supporters cheer results at a Leave.eu party after polling stations closed in the Referendum on the European Union in London Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Mr Cameron announces his resignation to supporters Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Donald Tusk proposes that the 27 remaining EU member states start a wider reflection on the future of our union Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage greets his supporters on College Green in Westminster, after Britain voted to leave the European Union PA Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as referendum results are announced today Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Boris Johnson leaves his home today to discover a crowd of waiting journalists and police officers Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Leave EU supporters celebrate as they watch the British EU Referendum results being televised at Millbank Tower in London Rex Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as results of the EU referendum are announced at the Royal Festival Hall Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign react after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall PA Launching his own bid, Work and Pensions Secretary Mr Crabb said that the party needed to overcome the splits of the referendum campaign. Backed by the Business Secretary Sajid Javid and the Attorney General Jeremy Wright, Mr Crabb, who grew up on a council estate, will present himself an antidote to establishment Tory leaders, and a figure able to represent the views of working class Leave voters. In a jab at Mr Johnson, Mr Crabb said that, if he became Prime Minister, he would make controlling immigration a red line in negotiations with the EU over the new terms of Britains relationship with the bloc. One message that came through louder than any other in the vote last week is that the British people want to take control of immigration, he said, also pledging to seek as close an economic relationship with the EU as we have now and to end the supremacy of EU law. Mr Johnson is likely to campaign with similar pledges but will face an uphill struggle after EU leaders said that Britain faced a choice between access to the single market, and the economic benefit it brings, and controls on immigration and could not have both. Launching her bid, Ms May will commit to leading an outward-looking and globally-minded and big-thinking country. Warning that the EU negotiation will require significant expertise and a consistent approach, she will say: I will therefore create a new government department responsible for conducting Britains negotiation with the EU and for supporting the rest of Whitehall in its European work. That department will be led by a senior Secretary of State and I will make sure that the position is taken by a Member of Parliament who campaigned for Britain to leave the EU. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The starting gun has been fired in the first race to be Conservative leader for more than a decade and the first since 1990 to bring with it the keys to 10 Downing Street. It comes after Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee of backbench Conservative MPs, announced the official list of contenders on Thursday. Mr Brady said the first set of voting will take place on Tuesday as the party's MPs narrow down the field of five candidates to two. With the least successful contender eliminated at each round, further ballots will be held on Thursday, then successive Tuesdays and Thursdays until two front-runners emerge to be put forward to the party membership in the country for a final decision. Mr Brady said the committee wants a winner to be chosen by September 9. To the shock of many of his colleagues Boris Johnson, the former London mayor and leading Leave campaigner, ruled himself out of the race. Mr Johnson, who was considered in some circles to be the obvious favourite to succeed David Cameron, said: Having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in Parliament, I have concluded that person cannot be me. Here The Independent runs through the official contenders for Tory leader: Theresa May The longest-serving Home Secretary in 100 years took a back seat in the referendum campaign. While backing Remain, she did not hit the campaign trail and delivered only a handful of speeches and interviews, and was critical of many aspects of the EU, particularly the European Convention on Human Rights. Hedging her bets allows her to now emerge as a unity candidate, and she is said to have been building up her back-room staff in preparation for a leadership bid. Theresa May is seen as a unity candidate (Getty) She has the significant advantage of having served in one of the great offices of state, in a steady and competent manner that has won her many admirers within party and the civil service. At a time of great instability, it may be that she is viewed as steady hand on the tiller. Ms May does, however, lack the star quality and party members may doubt her ability to connect with ordinary voters. Announcing her candidacy Ms May said she was ready and able to do the job from day one. Odds according to Ladbrokes: 4/6 Michael Gove The Justice Secretary may be able to set himself up as the thinking Torys Brexit candidate. He made an enormous political and personal decision to back Leave, taking on his old friend David Cameron. He performed well during the TV debates, and will be an admired figure among Eurosceptic Conservatives. He could, however, be hindered because he led a very divisive campaign characterised by blue-on-blue attacks. Before Mr Johnson ruled himself out of the race it was widely believed he would run on the same ticket as his fellow Leave campaigner, possibly settling for Chancellor. But in a shock announcement Mr Gove said he would be running for Number 10. Michael Gove is admired by Eurosceptic Conservatives (Getty) His campaign could also be hindered further by previous statements on the top job. On the day of his announcement Sky News, for example, was running footage of him saying: I dont want to be Prime Ministerhaving seen close up how he [David Cameron] does the job I know that I couldnt do it. In another video, recorded by the BBC, he said: I think there are lots of other folk, including in the Cabinet, who could easily be Prime Minister. Im not one of them. I could not be Prime Minister. I am not equipped to be Prime Minister. I dont want to be Prime Minister. Odds according to Ladbrokes: 3/1 Stephen Crabb The highly-rated Work and Pensions Secretary, raised on a council estate, could reach out to non-traditional working class Tory voters. John Major won an election in 1992 with a campaign that made a great virtue of his own working-class roots. One poster proclaimed: What does the Conservative Party offer a working class kid from Brixton? They made him Prime Minister. Mr Crabb could reproduce the same message, swapping Brixton for West Wales. He has also moved up the partys ranks with impressive speed and at the moment he is in a contest against Ms May and Mr Gove. But the party has form in not going for the obvious candidate, and the support of heavyweights such as Sajid Javid and the Attorney General Jeremy Wright counts for something. Stephen Crabb could reach out to non-traditional working class Tory voters (Getty) (Getty Images) Making his bid for leader of the party he said: I had a fabulous education at a really good comprehensive school across the road from the council house where I lived. I had an amazing role model in a mother who overcame massive difficulties and worked incredibly hard for us; she took us to the public library every Saturday where I soaked up books and learning. I worked every day from the age of 12 starting at the local corner shop, graduating to the Tesco shop floor, and paid my way through university working on building sites in various parts of the country. Mr Crabbs campaign could face setbacks on the issue of gay marriage something Mrs May emphasised in her candidacy speech and paid tribute to Mr Cameron for. Starting his campaign he was forced to defend a previous opposition and appearing to have past links with a gay cure organisation. At a press conference on Wednesday, when asked if he is prejudiced, he responded: No, absolutely not. We had that debate in the last parliament about gay marriage. I voted that way I did, but Im very happy with the outcome. Odds according to Ladbrokes: 20/1 Andrea Leadsom An assured performance in the televised EU referendum debates by the energy minister for the Brexit campaign won Ms Leadsom praise and she was seen to have performed well. Announcing her decision to run, the former banker and fund manager said: Let's make the most of the Brexit opportunities. I see a huge opportunity from the result of the referendum, Ms Leadsom added in a video declaring her leadership ambitions. Britain, the United Kingdom, can be so much better in the world. The future for our children and grandchildren will be so great but what we have to do now is all pull together and make that opportunity a reality. Andrea Leadsom was assured in the televised EU referendum debates (Rex Features) Compared to Mr Gove and Ms May she is relatively inexperienced in high office and only became an MP for South Northamptonshire in May 2010. However, she has served on both public accounts committee and the influential treasury select committee in Westminster. Her outsider status could also win her some backers. Odds according to Ladbrokes: 9/2 Liam Fox Dr Fox who unsuccessfully sought the top job in 2005 was the first to confirm he was considering a fresh bid. An outspoken supporter of Brexit, he is pinning his hopes on winning over the right of the party. Liam Fox hopes to win over the right of the party (Getty) (AFP/Getty) Announcing his candidacy he said the vote for Brexit ushered in a new dawn for our country. The former defence secretary said the events of last week had left the country "bruised and uncertain", but added politicians must fully implement the decision made by the British people to "fully heal" the divisions it has created. He resigned in disgrace from the frontbench in 2011 after allowing his friend and best man Adam Werritty to take on an unofficial and undeclared role as his adviser. Odds according to Ladbrokes: 40/1 Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} British fishermen have been warned catch quotas will not increase before Brexit is finalised and may not even grow after Britain's withdrawal from the EU. Many fishermen campaigned to leave the EU, hoping for trade deals and quotas tailored to the British fishing fleets rather than compromise deals with other member states. In the run up to the referendum, Ukip's Nigel Farage brought fishing to the forefront of the debate by leading a Brexit flotilla up the Thames made up of British fishing vessels. The National Federation of Fishermens Organisation (NFFO) said in a statement: "Promises have been made and expectations raised during the referendum campaign and it is now time to examine if and how they can be delivered "Unfortunately, perhaps, the UKs geopolitical position means that it is not politically or legally possible just to ringfence most of our fish resources, in the way that, for example, Iceland can." The NFFO added: "The reality is that most of our stocks are shared with other countries to some degree or other. We can certainly seek to renegotiate quota shares, as well as access arrangements, but it is realistic to expect that there will be a price. Who will pay that price is a critical question." A spokesman for the European Commission told the Guardian there could be no predicting what could happen to fisheries agreements but that for time being, nothing will change. Michel Sapin shocked at lack of Brexit planning He said: "It is far too early to speculate on this question [of what will happen to fisheries]. "That will be addressed in due course, once negotiations with the UK begin on its withdrawal agreement as well as on the agreement concerning its future relationship with the EU. "For the time being, nothing changes." Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit Show all 10 1 /10 Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit A Fishing for Leave pro-Brexit "flotilla" makes its way along the River Thames in London PA Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit Boats from the 'Fishing for Leave' campaign group join a flotilla along the Thames River Getty Images Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit Supporters of the EU Remain camp attach banners to Tower Bridge as they await a flotilla of fishing boats campaiging for Brexit to pass under the bridge AFP/Getty Images Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit A Fishing for Leave pro-Brexit "flotilla" alongside HMS Belfast (left) as it makes its way along the River Thames PA Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit Bob Geldof (centre) on board a boat taking part in a pro-EU counter demonstration PA Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit A flotilla of fishing vessels campaigning to leave the European Union REUTERS Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit A boat from the 'Fishing for Leave' campaign group and smaller boats from the 'In' campaign join a flotilla along the Thames River Getty Images Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit A fishing boat campaiging for Brexit passes by the Tower of London AFP/Getty Images Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit A boat decked out in flags and banners from the 'Fishing for Leave' campaign group Getty Images Nigel Farage joins 'Fishing for Leave' flotilla campaigning for Brexit Fishing boats campaiging for Brexit pass under Tower Bridge AFP/Getty Images Economist Griffin Carpenter from the New Economics Foundation counsels caution that any change to their catch quotas will take years to negotiate as the small size of the fishing industry will not make it a priority According to a 2013 government fisheries report into fishing, there are only 12,150 fisherman working in the UK with 5,000 based in Scotland and 5,300 in England. The number of fishermen operating from the UK dropped 10 per cent between 2003 and 2013. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A woman has won the right to give birth to her own grandchild using frozen eggs left behind by her dead daughter, the Court of Appeal has ruled. The 60-year-old, whose daughter died of bowel cancer in 2011, had asked the three presiding judges to allow her to carry out the dying wishes of a much-loved and only child. The High Court judges heard that the daughter, referred to as A, wanted desperately to have children and had asked her mother to carry my babies. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) denied her parents, known only as Mr and Mrs M, access to her eggs as she had not given her full written consent before she died of bowel cancer aged 28. As a result, the parents launched legal action against the HFEA's decision in September 2014 to not allow them to take their daughters eggs to a US fertility clinic to be impregnated with donor sperm. The parents counsel, Jenni Richards QC, told the court there was clear evidence what A wanted to happen to her eggs after she died, adding that all available evidence showed she wanted her mother to have her child after death. Presiding judges, Sir James Munby, Lady Justice Arden and Lord Justice Burnett allowed the appeal and remitted the case to the HFEA for further consideration. Mr and Mrs M were not in court for the ruling. 72-Year-Old Woman Becomes First Time Mother Through IVF Giving the court's ruling, Lady Justice Arden said the challenge succeeded on three levels. She said: First, there was on the face of it the misstatement of certain of the evidence about A's consent by the committee [HFEA]. Second, even if what the committee meant was that there was a lack of effective consent because the appellants could not show that A received information on certain matters, the decision was flawed because the committee pointed to the lack of certain evidence without explaining why A needed to receive that information and give that consent. The third level is that the committee did not ask the prior question of what information the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act required to be given to A in the circumstances of her case. Justice Arden added the decision must be set aside and remitted to the committee for further consideration of Mr and Mrs M's export application. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Six gay men say they were abused and forced to flee their homes in Ivory Coast after showing support for victims of the nightclub massacre in Orlando. A mob reportedly punched and kicked at least two gay men who were photographed signing a condolence book for those killed in Florida in an image which was then circulated online. The photo of the six men was shared by the US embassy based in Abidjan, the Ivorian capital, on its site and then widely posted across social media. Despite the book also being signed by the west African country's prime minister, Daniel Kablan Duncan, a mob tracked down two of the men in the photo and shouted anti-gay slurs at them. One of the men, who gave his name as Louna, said he was walking in his neighbourhood in the capital when a mob pushed him to the ground, stole his phone and wallet, and beat him. "I can't go out. I don't know who might recognise me," he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation, adding that he feared he would never be able to return home. "I don't have a life anymore," said another 36-year-old, who only gave his nickname for fear of further attacks. The other four men were also verbally abused and all six have fled their homes. Louna said he did not know the photo had been posted online until a friend called to say he had seen it. All the men said they had not been contacted by the US embassy for their permission to use the photos. But the embassy countered that it had consulted activists at three LGBT organisations in the country, who had all given the green light to publish. Elizabeth Ategou, a press officer, said the embassy "deeply regrets that any individuals were attacked based on any kind of orientation they might have". The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay Show all 10 1 /10 The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54196.bin Getty Images The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54197.bin Getty Images The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54198.bin Getty Images The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54200.bin The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54201.bin Getty Images The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54202.bin Reuters The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54203.bin Reuters The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54204.bin Reuters The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54206.bin The Ten Best Places In The World To Be Gay 54207.bin Getty Images One of the activists, who also insisted on anonymity, said he would never have given permission had he known those in the picture would be identified so explicitly as members of the "LGBTI community." The group at the embassy were writing messages of support in response to gunman Omar Mateen opening fire inside a gay nightclub in Florida which killed 49 people. The photo has now been removed from the embassy's website. Same-sex relationships are not explicitly illegal in Ivory Coast, in part because the country was once a French colony and has not inherited Britain's anti-sodomy laws, but LGBT people do not have the same legal protection as hetereosexual individuals. It is not the first major incident of hate crime against the LGBT community in the country. In January 2014, a mob ransacked the Abidjan headquarters of the country's most prominent gay rights organisation. Meanwhile, the US embassy in Abidjan has strengthened ties with the country's LGBT activists following an Obama administration memorandum in 2011 that empowered "all agencies engaged abroad" to promote and protect the human rights of sexual minorities. Additional reporting by the Associated Press Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Obama administration has proposed a new agreement on Syria to the Russian government that would deepen military cooperation between the two countries against some terrorists, in exchange for Russia getting the Assad regime to stop bombing US-supported rebels. The United States transmitted the text of the proposed agreement to the Russian government on Monday after weeks of negotiations and internal Obama administration deliberations, according to an administration official. The crux of the deal is a US promise to join forces with the Russian air force to share targeting and coordinate an expanded bombing campaign against Jabhat al-Nusra, al-Qaedas branch in Syria, which is primarily fighting the government of President Bashar al-Assad. Under the proposal, which was personally approved by President Obama and supported by Secretary of State John F. Kerry, the American and Russian militaries would cooperate at an unprecedented level, something the Russians have sought for a long time. In exchange the Russians would agree to pressure the Assad regime to stop bombing certain Syrian rebel groups the United States does not consider terrorists. The United States would not give Russia the exact locations of these groups, under the proposal, but would specify geographic zones that would be safe from the Assad regimes aerial assaults. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter was opposed to this plan, officials said, but was ultimately compelled to go along with the presidents decision. For many inside and outside the administration who are frustrated with the White Houses decision-making on Syria, the new plan is fatally flawed for several reasons. One big flaw is that its clear that the Russians have no intent to put heavy pressure on Assad, said former US ambassador to Syria Robert Ford. And in those instances when the Russians have put pressure on, theyve gotten minimal results from the Syrians. Theres not enough reliable intelligence to distinguish Jabhat al-Nusra targets from the other rebel groups they often live near, Ford said. And even if the Syrians agreed not to bomb certain zones, there would be no way to stop Jabhat al-Nusra and other groups from moving around to adjust. Moreover, increased bombing of Jabhat al-Nusra would be likely to cause collateral damage including civilian deaths, which would only bolster the groups local support. It makes no sense to me, said Ford. If they are trying to destroy al-Qaeda in Syria, do they really think bombing them is the way to do it? F-16s do not solve recruitment problems with extremist groups. One administration official complained that the plan contains no consequences for the Russians or the Assad regime if they dont hold up their end of the bargain. Fifty-one US diplomats signed a dissent letter this month calling on the White House to use targeted military force against the Assad regime as a means of increasing the pressure on Assad and giving the US real leverage. Kerry has been threatening for months that if Assad doesnt respect the current cease-fire, known as the cessation of hostilities, that there was a Plan B of increasing arms to the Syrian rebels. But the White House has now scuttled that plan in favor of the proposed Russia deal, which could actually leave the rebels in a far worse position. Because most Jabhat al-Nusra fighters are fighting Assad, if the plan succeeds, Assad will be in a much better position. Meanwhile, the other Sunni Arab groups that are left fighting Assad will be in a much weaker position, said Andrew Tabler, senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. The strategy could allow Assad to capture Aleppo, which would be a huge victory for his side in the civil war. If the U.S. and Russia open up on Jabhat al-Nusra, that changes the dynamics on the ground in Aleppo and Idlib, he said. It would definitely benefit the Assad regime and it could potentially benefit the Kurds and ISIS. For Russia, the deal is not just about Syria. Russian President Vladimir Putin sees increased military cooperation as an acknowledgment of Russian importance and a way to gradually unwind Russias isolation following the Russian military intervention in Ukraine. Thats why Carter was initially opposed to the plan, officials said. The Russians have made it very clear that they want military-to-military cooperation with the U.S., not just to fight terrorism, but to improve their world standing, said Tabler. It is a way to be welcomed back into the fold. State Department spokesman John Kirby declined to comment on the specifics of the proposal but defended its basic principles. We have been clear about Russias obligations to ensure regime compliance with the cessation of hostilities. We have also been clear about the danger posed by al-Qaeda in Syria to our own national security, he said. We are looking at a number of measures to address both of these issues. For the White House, the priority in Syria is not solving the Syrian civil war, which most White House officials believe is intractable, or forcing the ouster of Assad. Senior administration officials admit that Russia and Assad are violating the cease-fire and failing to show the will to advance the political process. But the White House has decided not to go back to the plan of increasing pressure on the Assad regime. Analytically speaking, the path of military escalation by one side or the other is not likely to lead to a final outcome in Syria, one senior administration official told me. Its essentially a stalemate. Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Show all 10 1 /10 Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Graffiti on the ancient stones reads in Arabic Shooting without the permission of the chief is prohibited Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Damaged artefacts lay inside the museum of the historic city of Palmyra Reuters Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Syrian pro-government forces rest by Palmyra Citadel as they take control of the city from the hands of Isis Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces The UNESCO world heritage site appears surprisingly intact after its recapture from the militant group Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Many had feared the ancient city would be destroyed following its capture by Isis in May Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Smoke billows from the Palmyra Citadel as Assads forces drive the Jihadist group from the city Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Palmyra is one of the most important cultural centers of the world Unesco says Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Pro-government forces play football in the streets following the recapture of the city Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces The extent of the destruction caused by Isis 10 month occupation of the city has yet to be fully realised Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces The City Council of Palmyra building in ruins Reuters The White House wants to keep the cease-fire in place for as long as possible, despite the violations, and wants to keep the political process going, despite the lack of progress. We want to keep the violence as low as possible for as long as possible, the official said. What we have to look at is, what is the alternative? And the alternative is either the levels of violence that we saw months ago . . . or we could see the violence get even worse. CIA Director John Brennan said Wednesday in remarks at the Council on Foreign Relations that Russia is trying to crush anti-Assad forces and that Moscow has not lived up to its commitments regarding the cease-fire or the political process in Syria. Nevertheless, Brennan said, the United States needs to work with Russia. Theres going to be no way forward on the political front without active Russian cooperation and genuine Russian interest in moving forward, he said. If the price of getting Russia on board with the Syrian political process is to further abandon the Syrian rebels and hand Assad large swaths of territory, its a bad deal. Its an even worse deal if Russia takes the US offer and then doesnt deliver on its corresponding obligations. The Obama administration is understandably trying to find some creative way to salvage its Syria policy in its final months. But the proposal that Obama offered Putin will have costs for the US position vis-a-vis Russia as well as for the Syrian crisis long after Obama leaves office. Copyright: Washington Post Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Made in China is a familiar label on Donald Trumps clothing lines, including his branded shirts, ties and cuffs, while other garments have come from factories in Vietnam, Bangladesh and Mexico. The clothing venture is one example of how the Republican has benefited from cheap labour and manufacturing abroad, practices which he has denounced as recently as this week when he promised to put America first. Although he told ABC News in 2011 that Chinas manipulation of its currency made it impossible to compete, he told Americans on Tuesday that he would impose tariffs on Chinese goods, bring back jobs to the US and punish any US company that moves its workforce or factory abroad. According to an investigation by The New York Times, Mr Trump paired up with Turkish maker of luxury furniture Dorya in 2013 for his Trump Home brand. The unbelievable crystal products in the range were made in Slovenia, he told the newspaper in 2010. The presidential candidate has also reportedly used undocumented immigrants to construct three of his most iconic buildings, including the Trump Tower in New York Mr Trump settled a lawsuit over the matter as he claimed he did not know his contractor were employing them as well as for the Trump International Hotel at the site of the former Post Office in Washington DC. He also reportedly employed foreign guest workers from Romania and other countries to work at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. The New York Times reported that Mr Trump said he found it a challenge to source qualified people in the local area during the high season. Donald Trump's most controversial quotes Show all 14 1 /14 Donald Trump's most controversial quotes Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Isis: "Some of the candidates, they went in and didnt know the air conditioner didnt work and sweated like dogs, and they didnt know the room was too big because they didnt have anybody there. How are they going to beat ISIS?" Getty Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On immigration: "I will build a great wall and nobody builds walls better than me, believe me and Ill build them very inexpensively. I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will make Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words." Reuters Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Free Trade: "Free trade is terrible. Free trade can be wonderful if you have smart people. But we have stupid people." PAUL J. RICHARDS | AFP | Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Mexicans: "When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending their best. Theyre sending people that have lots of problems. Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists." Getty Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On China: "I just sold an apartment for $15 million to somebody from China. Am I supposed to dislike them?... I love China. The biggest bank in the world is from China. You know where their United States headquarters is located? In this building, in Trump Tower." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On work: "If you're interested in 'balancing' work and pleasure, stop trying to balance them. Instead make your work more pleasurable." AP Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On success: "What separates the winners from the losers is how a person reacts to each new twist of fate." Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On life: "Everything in life is luck." AFP Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On ambition: "You have to think anyway, so why not think big?" Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On his opponents: "Bush is totally in favour of Common Core. I don't see how he can possibly get the nomination. He's weak on immigration. He's in favour of Common Core. How the hell can you vote for this guy? You just can't do it." Reuters Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Obamacare: "You have to be hit by a tractor, literally, a tractor, to use it, because the deductibles are so high. It's virtually useless. And remember the $5 billion web site?... I have so many web sites, I have them all over the place. I hire people, they do a web site. It costs me $3." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Barack Obama: "Obama is going to be out playing golf. He might be on one of my courses. I would invite him. I have the best courses in the world. I have one right next to the White House." PA Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On himself: "Love him or hate him, Trump is a man who is certain about what he wants and sets out to get it, no holds barred. Women find his power almost as much of a turn-on as his money." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On America: "The American Dream is dead. But if I get elected president I will bring it back bigger and better and stronger than ever before and we will make America great again." GETTY Despite talk at his rallies of opposing outsourcing, the property tycoon has not always been against the practice. If a companys only means of survival is by farming jobs outside its walls, then sometimes its a necessary step, Mr Trump wrote on his Trump University blog in 2005. The other option might be to close its doors for good. He also told chat show host David Letterman in 2012 that he was proud to employ people in Bangladesh to manufacture Trump-branded dress shirts. Thats good, we employ people in Bangladesh, Mr Trump said. They have to work, too. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Authorities are searching for a grizzly bear, who they say attacked and killed a 38-year-old cyclist riding just outside Glacier National Park in Montana. Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry said that Kalispel native Brad Treat was killed on Wednesday while riding the trail in the Halfmoon Lakes area of the Flathead National Forest. The area will remained closed off as police search for the grizzly. Sheriff Curry said that Treat, a law-enforcement officer for the US Forest Service, was riding with another cyclist when they surprised the grizzly bear, who knocked him off his bike. The second rider immediately fled the scene to find help and was not injured in the attack. Brad was an integral member of our area law enforcement team and a friend to us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family tonight, Sheriff Curry said, according to the Flathead Beacon. The deadly attack marks the 11th killing by a bear since Glacier National Parks inception in 1910. Northwest Montana has the largest grizzly bear population in the lower 48 states, the Beacon reports, with more than 1,000 bears calling the region home. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A naked man jumped to the pavement from atop a ticketing booth in the middle of New Yorks Times Square after he taunted police and screamed about Donald Trump. Recommended Read more Police horse called Gunny throws officer then runs around New York The man, identified by police as a 21-year-old Manhattan resident, paced atop the TKTS booth in Duffy Square while taunting police. At one point, witnesses say, he spat at a NYPD officer. The Post identified the man as model Krit McClean, a fashion model born in Bangkok and raised in New York. He was extremely combative, an NYPD spokesperson told the New York Post. He was spitting at us and swinging his arms. Police add that he neatly folded his clothes and placed them in a backpack before climbing the 16-foot staircase. The spokesperson said they believed the man was suicidal. Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record Show all 9 1 /9 Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-9.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-7.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-8.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-3.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-4.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-6.jpg A participant masked as the sex-related-scandal mayoral candidate Anthony Weiner as people assemble on Times Square in New York in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record of people gathered in their underwear. The current record is of 2,270 people Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-10.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-1.jpg Getty Images Revellers gather in Times Square to attempt underwear world record New-York-underwear-2.jpg Getty Images When police first approached Mr McClean, the Post reports, he screamed, Get that b*tch, Debbie, I want to talk to Debbie! He moved on from Debbie and onto presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump. Donald Trump, where are you. Donald Trump, where the f*ck are you? he shouted. The spectacle lasted almost an hour and captured the attention of not only onlookers rushing through the busy Midtown intersection, but of onlookers on social media streams Evading officers, the man fell from the 16-foot structure, missing the airbag deployed by responders. NYPD confirmed that the man was conscious after the fall. He suffered minor injuries, including cuts to his legs. Paramedics rushed him to Bellevue Hospital for a psychological evaluation. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The judge who sentenced former Stanford University swimmer Brock Turner to six months in jail is presiding over a similar case in which he will sentence a Latino man to three years in prison. Judge Aaron Persky generated international outrage after handing Turner what was perceived to be a lenient sentence after the former swimmer was convicted of three counts of sexual assault. Mr Persky is now presiding over the case of Raul Ramirez, a 32-year-old immigrant from El Salvado who has admitted assaulting his female roommate. The case has distinct similarities to the Turner case, but the sharp contrast in sentences has raised questions about court bias and how Turner may have benefitted by coming from a privileged background. Mr Persky faces a recall campaign led by a Stanford University law professor and more than a dozen state lawmakers have called for an investigation, arguing Mr Perskys sentence shows bias and undermines public faith in the judicial system. Turner was arrested after two people spotted him thrusting on top of a motionless woman, and called the police. He was convicted of assault with intent to commit rape of an intoxicated woman, sexually penetrating an intoxicated person with a foreign object and sexually penetrating an unconscious person with a foreign object. In a statement to the court following his conviction but before sentencing, Turner blamed a party culture of drinking, and refused to acknowledge the assault. Hero Swedish student who stopped Stanford rape describes what he saw But despite the evidence the woman was unconscious, Mr Persky said it should not count against him at sentencing. Mr Persky subsequently made an exception for Turner, refusing to sentence him to the minimum of two years in prison as recommended by US law, saying the case was unusual and that prison would have a severe impact on him, the Guardian reports. Meanwhile, Ramirez, who has pleaded guilty to a charge of sexual penetration by force, and apologised for his crime, saw his bail set at $200,000, compared to Turners $150,000, and will be sentenced to three years in jail. Neither Turner nor Ramirez had any previous convictions for serious or violent crimes, court documents showed. According to the Guardian, Ramirezs guilty plea meant Mr Persky was legally bound to sentence him to the minimum custodial term. Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Show all 19 1 /19 Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Afghanistan Recommendation: I urge the Government of Afghanistan to adopt legislative reforms to ensure that sexual violence offences are not conflated with adultery or morality crimes and to establish infrastructure for the delivery of protection, health and le gal services to survivors. I call on the Ministry of the Interior to accelerate efforts to integrate women into the Afghan National Police, thereby enhancing its outreach and its capacity to address sexual and gender-based violence Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Central African Republic Recommendation: I urge the authorities of the Central African Republic to ensure that efforts to restore security and the rule of law take into account the prevention of sexual violence and that monitoring of the ceasefire and peace agreement explicitly reflects this consideration, in line with the joint communique of the Government and the United Nations on the prevention of and response to conflict-related sexual violence signed in December 2012. I further encourage the authorities to make the rapid response unit to combat sexual violence operational and to establish a special criminal court Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Colombia Recommendation: I commend the Government of Colombia for the progress made to date and its collaboration with the United Nations, including through the visit of my Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict in March 2015. I encourage the authorities to implement Law 1719 and continue to prosecute cases of sexual violence committed during the conflict to ensure that survivors receive justice and receive reparations. Conflict-related sexual violence should continue to be addressed in the Havana peace talks, as well as in the resulting accords and transitional justice mechanisms. Particular attention should be paid to groups that face additional barriers to justice such as ethnic minorities, women in rural areas, children, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex individuals and women abused within the ranks of armed groups. I encourage the Government to scale up its protection measures and share its good practices with other conflict-affected countries Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Congo Recommendation: I urge the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure full implementation of the armed forces action plan against sexual violence, to systematically bring perpetrators to justice and to deliver reparations to victims, including payment of outstanding compensation awards. I call on donors and the United Nations system to support the Government in its efforts and to pay increased attention to neglected areas, including unregulated mining regions Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Iraq Recommendation: I commend the Government of Iraq for its national action plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) and urge its swift implementation, including by training its security forces to ensur e respect for womens rights. Programmes to support the social reintegration of women and girls released from captivity by ISIL are urgently needed, as is community-based medical and psychological care. The capacity of the United Nations system should be enhanced through the deployment of Womens Protection Advisers or equivalent specialists Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Libya Recommendation: I urge the national authorities in Libya to implement Decree No. 119 and Resolution 904 of 2014 to ensure redress for all victims, including those affected by the current conflict, through the establishment of multisectoral services and the adoption of legislation to categorically prohibit sexual violence Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Mali Recommendation: I urge the Government of Mali, with support from United Nations Action against Sexual Violence in Conflict, to develop a comprehensive national strategy to combat sexual and gender-based violence and to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers so that services can reach remote areas. I further call on all parties to ensure that conflict-related sexual violence is addressed in the inter-Malian dialogue and that perpetrators of sexual violence do not benefit from amnesty or early release Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Myanmar Recommendation: I urge the Government of Myanmar to continue with its reform agenda and, in the process, take practical and timely actions to protect and support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and to ensure that security personnel accused of such crimes are prosecuted. Sexual violence should be an element in all ceasefire and peace negotiations, excluded from the scope of amnesty provisions and addressed in transitional justice processes. It is critical that women be able to participate consistently in and influence these processes Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Somalia Recommendation: I reiterate my call to the Federal Government of Somalia to implement the commitments made under the joint communique of 7 May 2013 and its national action plan to combat sexual violence in conflict, including specific plans for the army and the police. I encourage the adoption of a sexual offences bill as a matter of priority Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life South Sudan Recommendation: I urge the parties to the conflict in South Sudan to adopt action plans to implement the commitments made under their respective communiques. I call upon the Government of South Sudan to address the negative impact of customary law on womens rights and to reflect international human rights standards in national law. I also encourage the African Union to make public and act upon the report of its Commission of Inquiry on South Sudan Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Sudan (Darfur) Recommendation: I call upon the Government of the Sudan to grant the United Nations and its humanitarian partners unfettered access for monitoring and the provision of assistance to people in need in Darfur. Given that there has been grave concern over sexual violence in Darfur for more than a decade, I encourage the Government to engage with my Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict to develop a framework of cooperation to address the issue comprehensively Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Syria Recommendation: I acknowledge the Governments invitation to my Special Representative to visit the Syrian Arab Republic and call upon the authorities, in the context of such a visit, to agree on specific measures to prevent sexual violence, including by members of the security forces. I condemn the use of sexual violence by ISIL and all other parties listed in the annex to the present report and call on them to cease such violations immediately and allow unfettered access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Yemen Recommendation: I urge the authorities in Yemen to undertake legislative reform as a basis for addressing impunity for sexual violence, ensuring the provision of services for survivors and aligning the minimum legal age of marriage with international standards. I further call on the authorities to engage with local community and faithbased leaders to address sexual and gender-based violence and discriminatory social norms Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Bosnia and Herzegovina Recommendation: I urge the relevant authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to harmonize legislation and policies so that the rights of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence to reparations are consistently recognized and to allocate a specific budget for this purpose. I further call upon the authorities to protect and support survivors participating in judicial proceedings through, inter alia, referrals to free legal aid, psychosocial and health services, as well as economic empowerment programmes Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Ivory Coast Recommendation: I urge the Government of Cote dIvoire to ensure the effective implementation of its national strategy to combat gender-based violence and the action plan for FRCI, and call on the international community to support these efforts. It is critical to accelerate disarmament, demobilization and reintegration and strengthen law enforcement to ensure that ex-combatants who have been reintegrated into the transport sector do not pose a risk to women and girls who are reliant on those services. The Government and the international community must provide monitoring and awareness-raising to mitigate the possibility of a recurrence of sexual violence in the context of the presidential elections to be held in October 2015 Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Liberia Recommendation: I call on the Government of Liberia to continue its critical efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence including through the United Nations-Government of Liberia Joint Programme, and in the context of recovery from the Ebola virus epidemic Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Nepal Recommendation: I encourage the Government to ensure that survivors of conflict-related sexual violence are recognized under the law as conflict victims, which will enable them to access services, judicial remedies and reparations. I further call on all parties involved in the transitional justice process to ensure that the rights and needs o f survivors of sexual violence are addressed in institutional reforms and that these crimes are excluded from amnesties and statutes of limitations Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Sri Lanka Recommendation: I call upon the newly elected Government of Sri Lanka to investigate allegations of sexual violence, including against national armed and security forces, and to provide multisectoral services for survivors, including reparations and economic empowerment programmes for women at risk, including war widows and female heads of household Countries where sexual violence has become a way of life Nigeria Recommendation: I encourage the Government to implement its national action plan on the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) to ensure that womens protection concerns are mainstreamed throughout its security operations. I also call upon the authorities to guarantee security in and around internally displaced persons camps and to extend medical and psychosocial services to high-risk areas However, critics say that while Turners case prompted Mr Persky to make an exception, the judge showed no willingness to negotiate with Ramirez to reduce his sentence. Professor Michele Landis Dauber of Stanford University, who is leading the recall said: This just shows that our concern about Judge Perskys ability to be unbiased is justified. We continue to think that he abused his discretion in giving an unduly lenient sentence to Turner. Whats happened with Mr Ramirez is standard, said Alexander Cross, an attorney who briefly represented Ramirez. The anomaly is the Stanford case. But Gary Goodman, a supervising attorney for the Santa Clara County public defenders office pointed out that the law in California carries more punitive weight in cases of sexual assault of a conscious person in comparison to unconscious victims. A review of 20 criminal cases handled by Mr Persky, carried out by the Press Association, concluded racial biases were not evident in the judges decisions. However, Ramirezs case has sparked debate over court bias in America, where black and Latino people are far more likely to face custodial sentences than white defendants in similar circumstances. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Transgender candidates won primaries in both Utah and Colorado on Tuesday night. Misty K Snow, 30, made US history by becoming the first transgender candidate for the Utah Senate. "A lot of people told me whether I win or lose, I'm already making a difference just by running, Snow recently told The Salt Lake Tribune. Snow, who works as a grocery store clerk, will now face tea party favorite Senator Mike Lee, a Republican ally to Texas Senator Ted Cruz, this coming November. Meanwhile, Misty Plowright, a 33-year-old former IT worker also won her primary in Colorado, and will face Representative Doug Lamborn. She earned more than 13,000 votes compared to her opponents 9,600 plus votes. Im not a professional politician," Plowright recently told The Denver Post. "I know what its like to struggle, and I know what its like to actually work. That just doesnt exist in most of our elected representatives." Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} President Barack Obama will make his 2016 campaign debut in an appearance with Hillary Clinton in North Carolina. Recommended Read more President Barack Obama endorses Hillary Clinton The two are expected to discuss building on the progress weve made and their vision for an America that is stronger together, the Clinton campaign in a press statement. I know how hard this job can be, thats why I know Hillary will be so good at it, Mr Obama said in a video statement endorsing Ms Clinton. In fact, I dont think theres ever been someone so qualified to hold this office. My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama Show all 11 1 /11 My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76341.bin AP My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76501.bin REUTERS My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76502.bin AP My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76505.bin AP My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76503.bin REUTERS My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76504.bin PA My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76506.bin AP My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76507.bin AP My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76508.bin My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76509.bin AP My vision for America: Speeches by Barack Obama 76510.bin AP Mr Obama had originally been scheduled to campaign for the former Secretary of State under his administration at a campaign event in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on 15 June, but the it was cancelled in the aftermath of the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando the weekend prior. This event will be another reminder that all Hillary Clinton is offering are four more years of the same failed Obama policies that have made America less prosperous and less safe, RNC spokesperson Kara Carter told The Independent in a statement. The event in Charlotte, scheduled for Tuesday, comes after Mr Obamas 2012 loss in the state to his Republican opponent Mitt Romney. Mr Obama had won the state when running against John McCain in 2008. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A grand jury has indicted a 20-year-old British citizen accused to trying to shoot Donald Trump at a Las Vegas rally two weeks ago. Michael Sandford, of England, was indicted on three felony charges on Wednesday on two counts of an undocumented migrant in possession of a firearm and one count of disrupting the orderly conduct of government, the Associated Press reports. He faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted and fines up to $250,000 on each count. Sanford was in the US illegally and told investigators that he had driven from San Bernardino, California to the Treasure Island Casino in Las Vegas to kill Trump, according to the indictment. He allegedly took shooting lessons with a Glock 9 millimeter handgun in Las Vegas the day before the event. He attended the Trump campaign rally at the Mystere Theatre on June 18 where he allegedly approached a uniformed Las Vegas Metropolitan police officer grabbing his weapon with two hands and was apprehended and thrown out of the event. US Secret Service agents were on site at the rally and are currently investigating the case. The suspects father Paul Davey previously said that his son had never took an interest in politics. Hes never shown any violent tendencies before, Davey told Portsmouth News. Hes never been a bad person, hes a nice kid and literally wouldnt hurt a fly he used to tell us not to use fly spray because he didnt want any flies to die. Sanfords arraignment has been scheduled for July 6 at 3pm local time. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The presumptive Republican presidential candidate has sparked fresh controversy by repeating his call for the use of waterboarding against terror suspects, declaring: I like it a lot. Speaking in the aftermath on the attack on Istanbul airport, Donald Trump said that the Obama administration had been too soft in dealing with extremists. You have to fight fire with fire, said Mr Trump, referring to Isis headings. We have to fight so viciously and violently because we're dealing with violent people. Mr McCain's relationship with Mr Trump has long been tense According to the Associated Press, Mr Trump then asked the crowd in Ohio: What do you think about waterboarding? They cheered as he gave his answer. I like it a lot, he said. I don't think its tough enough. This is not the first time that the 70-year-old New York tycoon has talked of his support for waterboarding, a practice described by President Barack Obama as torture and which was officially banned by the US in 2006. In March, Mr Trump called for broadening laws to allow for the use of torture, including but not limited to waterboarding. His stance has put him at odds with some members of his own party including Senator John McCain. Folks, theres something going on thats really, really bad. All right? Its bad, said Mr Trump. And we better get smart and we better get tough. Or were not going to have much of a country left, OK? Mr McCain has had a tense relationship with Mr Trump, who once said the senator, who was a prisoner of war in Vietnam for more than five years, was not a hero because he was captured. Despite the prickliness, Mr McCain, in what is being seen as a move to ensure his own reelection, is backing Mr Trump for the presidency. On Wednesday, the senator again criticised Mr Trumps remarks on waterboarding, repeating his view that torture was neither appropriate or effective. Donald Trump's most controversial quotes Show all 14 1 /14 Donald Trump's most controversial quotes Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Isis: "Some of the candidates, they went in and didnt know the air conditioner didnt work and sweated like dogs, and they didnt know the room was too big because they didnt have anybody there. How are they going to beat ISIS?" Getty Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On immigration: "I will build a great wall and nobody builds walls better than me, believe me and Ill build them very inexpensively. I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will make Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words." Reuters Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Free Trade: "Free trade is terrible. Free trade can be wonderful if you have smart people. But we have stupid people." PAUL J. RICHARDS | AFP | Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Mexicans: "When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending their best. Theyre sending people that have lots of problems. Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists." Getty Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On China: "I just sold an apartment for $15 million to somebody from China. Am I supposed to dislike them?... I love China. The biggest bank in the world is from China. You know where their United States headquarters is located? In this building, in Trump Tower." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On work: "If you're interested in 'balancing' work and pleasure, stop trying to balance them. Instead make your work more pleasurable." AP Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On success: "What separates the winners from the losers is how a person reacts to each new twist of fate." Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On life: "Everything in life is luck." AFP Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On ambition: "You have to think anyway, so why not think big?" Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On his opponents: "Bush is totally in favour of Common Core. I don't see how he can possibly get the nomination. He's weak on immigration. He's in favour of Common Core. How the hell can you vote for this guy? You just can't do it." Reuters Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Obamacare: "You have to be hit by a tractor, literally, a tractor, to use it, because the deductibles are so high. It's virtually useless. And remember the $5 billion web site?... I have so many web sites, I have them all over the place. I hire people, they do a web site. It costs me $3." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Barack Obama: "Obama is going to be out playing golf. He might be on one of my courses. I would invite him. I have the best courses in the world. I have one right next to the White House." PA Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On himself: "Love him or hate him, Trump is a man who is certain about what he wants and sets out to get it, no holds barred. Women find his power almost as much of a turn-on as his money." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On America: "The American Dream is dead. But if I get elected president I will bring it back bigger and better and stronger than ever before and we will make America great again." GETTY Its not the United States of America. Its not what we are all about. Its not what we are, he said to applause, at the Bipartisan Policy Centre in Washington. Mr McCain said that waterboarding was considered a war crime according to the Geneva conventions. But perhaps more important than that, if youre not into academics and history is it doesnt work, he said. Because if you inflict enough pain on someone they will tell you whatever they think you want to hear. Mr McCain also joked that those who initially thought Trump would be the nominee were crazy. If you believed that Donald Trump was going to be the nominee and you believed that Bernie Sanders was going to come close, please raise your hand, he said. Please dont drive an automobile in the metropolitan area. You're a danger to yourself and others. More than 40 people were killed when three men with explosives attacked Istanbuls Ataturk International Airport on Tuesday night. The Turkish authorities have blamed Isis and identified the three suspected attackers. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Defense secretary Ash Carter has lifted the ban on allowing transgender people from serving openly in the military. Mr Carter said the military studied existing policies in countries like the UK, Israel and Australia to work out how best to deal with its 7,000 transgender personnel in the active forces and around 4,000 transgender people in the reserves. Although relatively few in number, they are talented and trained members of our military, he said. We want to take and retain people whose talent we have invested in and who have proved themselves. Recommended Read more US military to lift ban on transgender personnel The reality is we have transgender service members serving in uniform today, he said. I have a responsibility to provide them and their commanders with better guidance. It's fair to say this was a learning curve for a lot of people in the department, including me, he added. Incoming service members would have to be in a stable state in terms of their gender for 18 months before joining the military. The immediate lifting of the ban comes after a year-long review, and comes just months after all military roles were opened up to women. It also comes five years after the military accepted openly gay and lesbian personnel. Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Show all 4 1 /4 Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Lea T. locking lips with Kate Moss on the cover of Love magazine's Spring/Summer 2011 issue Kate Moss and Lea T styled by Katie Grand and shot by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Transgender model Lea T on the cover of Love magazine's Spring/Summer 2011 issue Lea T styled by Katie Grand and shot by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Lea T. on Givenchy's autumn/winter 2010 campaign Givenchy Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Transgender supermodel Lea T in pictures Brazilian model Lea Tisci (Lea T) poses as she arrives for the amfAR 21st Annual Cinema Against Aids during the 67th Cannes Film Festival Getty Images Mr Carter and his department also vowed to provide medical care for transgender service members, rather than requiring them to find their own doctors and to pay for it out of their own pockets. This is inconsistent to our promise to all of our troops that we will take care of them and pay for their medical treatment, he said. From now on, all service members, including transgender personnel, will receive free health care that is deemed necessary by their military doctor. Surgery to transition genders would also be provided for existing armed service members whose surgery to change genders would be deemed as necessary by their doctor. He mentioned the American founding principal of equality and liberty. If we in uniform are willing to die for that principle, we should be willing to live for that principle, too, he said. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The US Senate has passed a bill to help Puerto Rico tackle its $70bn debt - just two days before the island territory is set for a possible default. The measure passed the Senate on a vote of 68-30 on Wednesday evening and President Barack Obama said in a statement he looked forward to signing the bill into law. The House of Representatives had already approved the bill. This bill is not perfect, but it is a critical first step toward economic recovery and restored hope for millions of Americans who call Puerto Rico home, Mr Obama said. The legislation would create a federal oversight board, appointed by Washington, with power to restructure Puerto Ricos unmanageable debt load, said Reuters. The bill provides for a stay, or halt, to any litigation brought against the Puerto Rican government and its debt issuing agencies that is retroactive to December. This provides breathing room for the board to start the process of restructuring and oversee a sustainable budget process. On Friday, Puerto Rico faces a potential default on a chunk of its debt if it cannot make $1.9bn worth of payments. Puerto Ricos Governor, Alejandro Garcia Padilla, has said the island will default some of the debt. Puerto Rico has been waiting for months for Congress to act as its economic crisis worsened. It has already defaulted on some of its debt. The Caribbean island territory is reeling from a 45 per cent poverty rate, as well as a steady flow of migration to the US mainland that shrinks its tax base and shuttering of essential services. In addition, it is suffering from a Zika virus outbreak that is hurting its critical tourism industry. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A small town in New Zealand has launched a recruitment drive after its mayor complained there were too many vacant jobs and houses for the current population to fill. Kaitangata on South Island is offering land packages and houses for NZ$230,000 (122,000) to persuade New Zealanders from nearby Christchurch to move out of town. Small businesses in the town are also teaming up to promote jobs to local people, although the majority of employment in the region comes from the dairy industry. There are estimated to be more than 1,000 job vacancies at sawmills and cheese factories waiting to be filled in the town, which currently has a population of around 800. Mayor Bryan Cadogen said he despaired over the quality of life many New Zealand families in the current economic climate". There are hundreds and hundreds of jobs [here], real good paying jobs that give a person a chance, he told the Guardian. When I was unemployed and had a family to feed, the Clutha gave me a chance, and now we want to offer that opportunity to other Kiwi families who might be struggling. We have got youth unemployment down to two. Not 2% just two unemployed young people. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty Mayor Cadogen confirmed the towns lawyers, bank and community services are on standby to welcome an influx of workers looking to move to the town. He continued: So many of the things Kiwis value, such as owning your own home and providing for your family, have become an impossible dream. For a lot of people in New Zealand life is just an endless slog. And that really saddens me. New Zealand suffered less than many of its trading partners during the global recession, and was described by a leading economist as having a rock star economy in 2014. To obtain a migrant visa in New Zealand, it is necessary to "display skills that would contribute to New Zealand's economic growth". For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Delivering a rousing motivational speech requires the orator to tread a fine line: Undercook it and your audience is bored. Overdo it, and you may just find the entire population of the country are taking their clothes off to mock you. If you are an authoritarian dictator, this is an undesirable outcome. Yet this is the situation Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko currently finds himself in. Mr Lukashenko was delivering a speech during the fifth All-Belarusian Peoples Assembly, where he was making grave pronouncements about the importance of innovation and computer technology to the economy of the country. We have mastered this, he said. So far, so uplifting, before he went on to add: But all our life, simple: it is necessary to get undressed and work till you sweat. Too far. Thousands of Belarusians have indeed proved they have mastered using modern technology by responding to the presidents pleas to further Belaruss glory by posting naked photographs of themselves at work. Instagram and Twitter are awash with Belarusians in the buff, using laptops and office furniture to cover their modesty. The hashtag # (#getnakedatwork) has even seen some efforts from those outside the country, apparently expressing their solidarity with those in Belarus. The president said it is necessary No excuses, one Instagram user wrote. We could not disobey, one woman said. This is the first thing I have like from our president. Very comfortable, wrote another. Mr Lukashenko has been president of Belarus since 1994, three years after Belarus declared independence from the USSR. He was referred to as the last dictator in Europe, by the Bush administration, after he rejected US calls for economic reform in exchange for financial aid from the IMF. In 2012 hundreds of teddy bears carrying pro-democracy messages were parachuted into the capital city of Minsk. After denying the incident for a fortnight, Lukashenko eventually caved in and admitted it had happened, ordering the arrest of two journalists in Belarus after they reported on the stunt which had been carried out by a Swedish PR firm. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} French police are probing death threats made towards the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, according to reports in France. A source close to the investigation told Le Parisien newspaper the first threat was made on the magazine's Facebook account before being removed by an unknown person. The threat reportedly said several editorial team members would be targets in an attack. A similar second threat was sent to the magazine's editor a few days later, the source said. The source told the paper: "The messages raise the idea of killing several members of the editorial team, again." Charlie Hebdo's Paris offices were attacked on 7 January 2015 by two brothers, Said and Cherif Kouachi, who shot dead 11 people and injured a further 11. Since the attacks, the magazine has been placed under enhanced security. The magazine is now based at a top secret location, after initially being moved to the offices of the Liberation newspaper, the Local reports. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The three suicide bombers who killed more than 40 people in an attack on Istanbul's main airport were all from parts of the former USSR. Officials gave the men's nationalities as Russian, Uzbek and Kyrgyz on Thursday after police detained 13 people, including three foreigners, in raids across Istanbul. Arrests were also made coastal city of Izmir, where at least nine people were detained on accusations of financing, recruiting and providing logistical support to Isis. Turkeys Ataturk Airport reopened for Business Turkish authorities believe Isis was behind the bombing and shooting attack, when three militants detonated explosives and fired at passengers with AK-47s outside the airport entrance and inside the departures terminal. The pattern followed a series of attacks carried out by Isis in recent months, including at Brussels airport and in Paris. Recruits from predominantly Muslim areas of the former Soviet Union have been featured prominently in Isis propaganda videos and Vladimir Putin estimated that there are up to 7,000 militants from the region in the terror groups ranks. The death toll from Tuesdays attack at Ataturk airport rose to 43 people after a Palestinian woman in her twenties, Sondos Shraim, died of her injuries. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said she was from the West Bank town of Qalqilya and had travelled to Istanbul with her husband and three-year-old child for Ramadan. Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Show all 20 1 /20 Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A mother of victims reacts outside a forensic medicine building close to Istanbul's airport AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Broken windows are pictured at the attacks and explosions site in Ataturk airport's international arrivals terminal AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Bullet impacts are pictured at Ataturk airport AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Police officers patrol at Istanbul Ataturk airport Reuters Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Workers clean the debris from the blasts at Istanbul Ataturk airport Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A wounded girl from the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack is transported to the Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers embrace outside Ataturk airport`s main entrance in Istanbul AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Medics carry wounded people to a hospital after a suicide bomb attack at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul EPA Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Relatives of the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack victims wait outside Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A Saudi tourist who survived the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack waits for his wounded mother outside the Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A Turkish riot police officer patrols Ataturk airport`s main entrance in Istanbul Ozane Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers wait at Ataturk airport`s main enterance in Istanbu, after two explosions followed by gunfire hit Turkey's largest airport Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Forensic police work the explosion site at Ataturk airport Ozane Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers leave Istanbul Ataturk, after a suicide bomb attack Getty Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Armed security man escorts people from a car park at Istanbul Ataturk airport REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Armed security walks at Istanbul Ataturk airport Murad Sezer/REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Ambulance cars arrive at Istanbul Ataturk airport Osman Orsal/REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul An ambulance arrives at the Ataturk airport REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul The weapons used in the attack REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers leave Istanbul Ataturk, after a suicide bomb attack Getty Her friend Nisreen Melhim, 28, was also killed, while Ms Melhim's husband and three-year-old daughter were wounded. The Turkish Interior Minister, Efkan Ala, told parliament 19 foreign nationals were among the victims. The death toll excludes the three suicide bombers. Out of the 238 who were wounded, 94 remain in hospital, the Istanbul Governor's office reported. The European Union has said it still wants Turkey make changes to its anti-terrorism laws that EU officials say are used to muzzle dissent a stance rejected by Turkish officials in the wake of a series of attacks. A Turkish police officer stands guard as people walk past near the explosion site on Wednesday at Ataturk airport (OZAN KOSE/AFP/Getty Images) (AFP/Getty) New demands directed at Turkey, that would encourage the terrorists, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said. We can't make any changes in our terrorism laws. Tomorrow maybe, when conditions change. He and other high-ranking officials from Ankara were at EU headquarters to resume negotiations on their country's application to join the European Union. As part of a deal to continue the controversial system seeing migrants whose asylum claims fail deported from Greece to Turkey, the EU wants Turkey to narrow its legal definition of terrorism and amend other laws to bring them in line with its standards. Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders, whose country holds the revolving EU presidency, indicated the bloc's position remains unchanged following the attack at Ataturk airport. We cannot have our agenda being decided by terrorists. We have an agreement with Turkey, we're working on the benchmarks, and that will continue, he said. And I hope we come to an agreement. Additional reporting by agencies Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A new poll shows nearly two-thirds of Germans want their government to reclaim some powers from the European Union after the UK voted to leave. The survey by Emnid for the N24 news channel found 62 per cent of the countrys citizens believe it should reclaim some of its powers, although the overwhelming majority are still in favour of membership. Three-quarters of those surveyed said they wanted to continue being members of the union - but like Britain. this figure disguises a generational gap. Some 90 per cent of under 30s said Germanys membership of the union was positive - compared to just over two-thirds of respondents aged 50 or over. The poll also found only one third of Germans believe Britain will actually leave the European Union - despite their Chancellor, Angela Merkel, saying the decision is irreversible. Speaking at the EU summit in Brussels on Wednesday, Ms Merkel said it would be wishful thinking to suggest there was any way Britain could remain in the union after 52 per cent of voters backed Brexit. Pro-EU rally held in London British politicians are yet to trigger Article 50, which will formally begin negotiations for the countrys withdrawal. Outgoing Prime Minister David Cameron said it would be up to his successor to formally begin negotiations. Meanwhile, a top constitutional lawyer said Parliament would need to vote to repeal the 1972 European Communities Act - which ratified the UK joining the EU - in order for the Government to legally withdraw. Brexit reactions in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit reactions in pictures Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign look at their phones after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall AP Brexit reactions in pictures Leave supporters cheer results at a Leave.eu party after polling stations closed in the Referendum on the European Union in London Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Mr Cameron announces his resignation to supporters Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Donald Tusk proposes that the 27 remaining EU member states start a wider reflection on the future of our union Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Ukip leader Nigel Farage greets his supporters on College Green in Westminster, after Britain voted to leave the European Union PA Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as referendum results are announced today Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Boris Johnson leaves his home today to discover a crowd of waiting journalists and police officers Getty Brexit reactions in pictures Leave EU supporters celebrate as they watch the British EU Referendum results being televised at Millbank Tower in London Rex Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In Campaign react as results of the EU referendum are announced at the Royal Festival Hall Reuters Brexit reactions in pictures Supporters of the Stronger In campaign react after hearing results in the EU referendum at London's Royal Festival Hall PA The majority of the 649 MPs currently sitting in the House of Commons backed the Remain campaign and Labour backbencher David Lammy has called for the house to reject the referendum result as it was advisory. Similarly, more than four million people have now signed a petition calling for a second referendum. They say that as a simple majority of votes, the result does not reflect the majority view of the British public because turnout was below 75 per cent. Sign up to our free fortnightly newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Nadine White Sign up to our free fortnightly newsletter The Race Report Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Race Report email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Switzerland has rejected citizenship requests from two Muslim girls for refusing to take part in swimming lessons with boys at school. The 12- and 14-year-old will no longer be considered for naturalised citizenship because they have not complied with the school curriculum, authorities in Basel said. The girls are understood to have refused to take part in school swimming lessons because boys were present and their religion forbade that form of interaction, according to USA Today. Their applications for Swiss passports have now been overturned. Meanwhile, the father of two other girls who refused to let his daughters swim with boys was fined $4,000 swiss francs (around 2,900) by a district court in another part of the country. Stefan Wehrle, president of the country's naturalisation committee, told TV station SRF that "whoever doesn't fulfil these conditions, violates the law and therefore cannot be naturalised." The father, who was fined by a court in Altstaeten in the north-east of the country, had been in trouble with authorities previously for requiring his daughters to wear head veils in school, according to The Local. In the end, his eldest daughter was granted the right to wear a veil to school by Switzerland's highest court on the grounds of religious freedom. Parts of the Qu'ran and the collection of oral traditions laid out in the Hadith, which follow the example of the Prophet Mohammed, advise Muslims on interactions between men and women. These include unrelated men and women avoiding physical contact and women being dressed modestly. The explicit requirement to cover the head and face is not in the Qu'ran. The two cases in Switzerland are the latest in a series of refusals by authorities to grant immigrants citizenship for cultural reasons. 10 things immigration has done for Britain Show all 10 1 /10 10 things immigration has done for Britain 10 things immigration has done for Britain The Mini The 1959 classic, that is, perhaps our greatest piece of industrial design, a miracle of packaging and revolution in motoring. Its genius designer was Sir Alec Issigonis, who was an asylum seeker. His family, Greek, fled Smyrna when Turks invaded this borderland in around 1920, and he wound up studying engineering at Battersea Polytechnic. He went on to create that most English of motor cars, the Morris Minor, as well as the Austin-Morris 1100, all much loved products of his fertile imagination. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain Marks and Spencer Once upon a time there was no M&S in Britain, difficult as that may be to believe. We have one Michael Marks to thank for our most famous retailer, and he was a refugee from Belarus, arriving in England in about 1882, and soon after set off to flog stuff around Yorkshire. He eventually teamed with Thomas Spencer to create the vast business we know today. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain Thunderbirds And many other TV shows created, funded and otherwise produced by that largest of larger-than-life characters, Lew Grade (also a world class tap dancer). The man who dominated commercial television gave us memorable entertainment such as The Prisoner, the Saint and brought the Muppets to Britain (a sort of fuzzy felt wave of immigration), as well as puppet shows where you could see the strings. All this from a penniless Jew from Ukraine, born Lev Winogradsky, who escaped the pogroms in Ukraine with his family in the 1890s. His nephew Michael Grade has also done his bit for British television. Rex Features 10 things immigration has done for Britain The House of Windsor Or the House of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha until George V prudently rebranded the family during the First World War. Well, our royals are a pretty German bunch, as well as having various types of French and other alien blue blood coursing around their veins. Twas ever thus. There was William the Conqueror, Norman French, who certainly broke the immigration rules; William of Orange, a direct import from Holland; the Hanoverian King Georges, the first barely able to speak English; Queen Victoria, who married a German, Edward VII, who couldnt stay faithful to his wife, a Danish princess; George V wed another German princess; Edward VIII married an American (though she hardly visited England and prompted his emigration and exile); and the Queen is married to man born in Corfu. The embodiment of the British nation, to many, but one thinks of them as quite multicultural really. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain I Vow To Thee My Country Our most patriotic hymn was the product of a man named Gustav Holst (pictured), born in Cheltenham, but of varied Swedish, Latvian and German ancestry, who adapted part of his suite The Planets to put a particularly stirring and beautiful poem to music, just after the Great War. As the second verse has it, there's another country/I've heard of long ago/Most dear to them that love her/most great to them that know. Imagine if the Holst family had been kept out because the quota on musical European types had been reached. Creative Commons 10 things immigration has done for Britain Curry and Cobra Chicken Tikka Masala is, so they say, a dish which not only the most popular in Britain but specifically designed to cater for European tastes. For that we probably have to thank an Indian migrant, Sake Dean Mahomed, who came from Bengal to open the first recognisable Indian restaurant, the magnificently named Hindoostanee Coffee House. History does not record if a plate of poppadoms and accompanying selection of pickles and yoghurts were routinely placed on the table for new diners, but we do know that we had to wait until 1989 to taste the ideal lager for a curry - Cobra. That brew was brought to us by Karan (now Lord) Bilimoria, a Cambridge law graduate who hailed from Hyderabad. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain That big red swirly sculpture at the Olympic Park Or Orbit, to give it its proper name, the work of Anish Kapoor, who arrived in 1973 from India and had the artistic imagination to fill a power station. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain The Sun Love it or hate it, and many do both, this has been a symbol of much that is successful and a lot that is awful in British journalism since its inception in 1969. In its turn it spawned the Page 3 Girl and some nastily xenophobic headlines. All the stranger when you consider its creator was, of course, Rupert Murdoch, born 11 March 1931 in Melbourne, Australia. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain Marxism OK, Karl Marxs philosophy was not much of a gift to the world, but for a while it seemed like a good idea. Though we might not dare admit it, Marxism still has a few insights to offer to anyone wanting to understand the workings of capitalism, though too few to excuse everything that was done in its name. Born in Germany spent much time in the British museum and the British pub, buried Highgate Cemetery. Oddly, his ideas never really caught on in his adopted homeland. Getty Images 10 things immigration has done for Britain The NHS They came from many, many backgrounds, including Ireland, the Philippines, east Europe, the Indian subcontinent, and Africa, as they still do, but the contribution of the black nurses who came to the UK from the Caribbean to heal and care for is a debt of honour that must be recognised. It so sometimes forgotten that it was Enoch Powell, then Minister of Health (1960-62), who campaigned to recruit their skilled nurses to come and work over here. One abiding legacy we can thank Enoch for. Getty Images Two Muslim brothers who refused to shake hands with their female teacher on the grounds of religious restriction were soon the centre of widespread media coverage and public uproar. The boys' father, an imam at the Basel mosque, immediately had his naturalisation request suspended by authorities, while any parent or guardian who refuses to shake a teacher's hand can now expect a $5,000 fine. Yet the case is not always limited to instances of religious difference. The resident-led committees which lead recommendations for immigrants in their communities gaining citizenship have previously rejected applications before on the grounds of people not seeming "Swiss enough". Anti-women laws that still exist in 2016 One immigrant family from Kosovo who had been in the country for a decade was told their tendency to wear shabby clothing in the street and not greet passersby was proof of their lack of integration. And an American who had lived in the country for 40 years had his application refused after being unable to name any Swiss friends or nearby villages. Switzerland has been a top destination for immigrants coming to Europe and, along with Australia, it has the highest proportion of immigrants in the developed world. But the country has also been accused of outright racism after 60 per cent of Swiss citizens voted in 2009 "against the construction of minarets" - the towers that deliver the call to prayer on either side of mosques - in the country. Britain has said before that it would like controlled immigration as in Switzerland or Australia. As a consequence of ending the free movement of people, Switzerland lost full access to the Single Market. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A suicide bomber has attacked an Afghan miltiary convoy outside Kabul killing almost 40 people. A police offical said at least 37 people had been killed and more than 40 others had been injured after three buses full of police cadets were attacked as they approached the city from neighbouring Wardak province. The unnamed official said: Initial information we have is that two suicide bombers were involved and there are many casualties. The attack took place 20km west of the Afghan capital, Kabul, according to Mousa Rahmati, the district governor of Paghman. The Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack and said it was the work of two suicide bombers. He said the first attacker, on foot, targeted the bus carrying the trainee policemen and their instructors then the suicide car bomber struck 20 minutes later targetting those who had arrived at the scene to help. Mr Rahmati said four civilians were among the dead. At least 37 people have been killed in the attack (Reuters) A spokesman for the Interior Ministry confirmed the location of the attack and said a loud explosion had been reported, but did not have any further details on the incident. It comes just over a week after a similar attack on a bus carrying Nepalese security guards working for the Canadian Embassy which killed 14 people in the capital. The country suffered its deadliest assault since 2011 in April after at least 64 people were killed in a Taliban attack on a security services facility. Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Show all 7 1 /7 Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack An relative of one of the victims who was killed in a suicide bomb blast in Kabul, Afghanistan, 19 April 2016. (EPA) EPA Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack An injured girl is carried to safety following the blast in Kabul (EPA) EPA Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack A man stands inside his damaged shop near the scene of a bomb blast in Kabul, Afghanistan, 19 April 2016 (EPA) EPA Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack Afghan quick reaction forces arrive at the site of a suicide car bomb attack in Kabul, Afghanistan April 19, 2016 (Reuters) Reuters Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack Afghan security forces carry an injured security personnel after a suicide car bomb attack in Kabul, Afghanistan April 19, 2016. (Reuters) Reuters Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack Afghan security forces inspect the site of a Taliban-claimed attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, April 19, 2016. (AP) AP Taliban attacks Kabul security compound - in pictures Kabul attack Relatives and loved ones carry the coffin of a victim killed in the April 19 Taliban truck bomb attack, at a funeral in Kabul on April 20, 2016. (AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images The attacks underline the deadly threat to security in Afghanistan just over a week before a NATO summit in Warsaw where leaders are expected to discuss whether to maintain support for the Kabul government. Under new leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, who took over last month after his predecessor, Mullah Akhtar Mansour, was killed in a US drone strike, the Taliban have made it clear that they will continue attacks against the Western-backed government. Last week, the top UN official in Afghanistan warned of the danger of a new spiral of violence following recent suicide attacks and a spate of highway kidnappings by the Taliban. Additional reporting by agencies For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A 13-year-old girl has been stabbed to death by a Palestinian teenager as she slept in her bed in the West Bank. The attacker, who had broken into the family home, was shot dead by security guards shortly after the attack in the settlement of Kiryat Arba on the outskirts of Hebron. Malachi Levinger, chairman of its governing council, said an alarm was triggered when the 17-year-old assailant jumped a perimeter fence. One of the guards was also stabbed during the incident overnight. The wounded child, Hallel Yaffa Ariel, died from her injuries in a local hospital. She was a cousin of Uri Ariel, a cabinet minister from the Jewish Home party, which is affiliated with the West Bank settler movement. US State Department Spokesperson John Kirby confirmed that the victim was a joint US-Israeli citizen and called her death an outrageous terrorist attack. This brutal act of terrorism is simply unconscionable and we offer our heartfelt condolences to her family and her friends," he added. Hallel's mother Rina said the girl was sleeping when the attacker slipped into her room and attacked her. Kiryat Arba is ours and it's still a place you can live in, she added. Photos released by the military showed blood on the bed and floor in her room. A Facebook account believed to belong to the man praised a Palestinian woman who was shot dead after a car ramming attack and included a post reading: Death is a right and I demand the right to die. Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, said his home would be destroyed and permits enabling his relatives to work in Israel revoked. He called on Palestinian leaders to condemn the attack and take immediate steps to stop what he described as incitement that the Israeli government is driving a string of attacks over the last nine months. The horrific murder of an innocent girl in her bed sheds light on the bloodlust and lack of humanity displayed by the terrorists we are facing, Mr Netanyahu said. The entire nation deeply identifies with the family's pain and declares to the murderers: you will not break us. The attackers village was locked down by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) as soldiers carried out searches and questioned relatives, with only humanitarian aid and urgent medical access allowed. The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Show all 10 1 /10 The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Medics evacuate a wounded man from the scene of an attack in Jerusalem. A Palestinian rammed a vehicle into a bus stop then got out and started stabbing people before he was shot dead AP The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Israeli ZAKA emergency response members carry the body of an Israeli at the scene of a shooting attack in Jerusalem. A pair of Palestinian men boarded a bus in Jerusalem and began shooting and stabbing passengers, while another assailant rammed a car into a bus station before stabbing bystanders, in near-simultaneous attacks that escalated a month long wave of violence AP The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Getty Images The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Palestinians throw molotov cocktail during clashes with Israeli troops near Ramallah, West Bank. Recent days have seen a series of stabbing attacks in Israel and the West Bank that have wounded several Israelis AP The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Women cry during the funeral of Palestinian teenager Ahmad Sharaka, 13, who was shot dead by Israeli forces during clashes at a checkpoint near Ramallah, at the family house in the Palestinian West Bank refugee camp of Jalazoun, Ramallah AP The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies A wounded Palestinian boy and his father hold hands at a hospital after their house was brought down by an Israeli air strike in Gaza Reuters The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Palestinians look on after a protester is shot by Israelis soldiers during clashes at the Howara checkpoint near the West Bank city of Nablus EPA The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies A lawyer wearing his official robes kicks a tear gas canister back toward Israeli soldiers during a demonstration by scores of Palestinian lawyers called for by the Palestinian Bar Association in solidarity with protesters at the Al-Aqsa mosque compound in Jerusalem's Old City, near Ramallah, West Bank AP The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Undercover Israeli soldiers detain a Palestinian in Ramallah Reuters The IsraeliPalestinian conflict intensifies Palestinian youth burn tyres during clashes with Israeli soldiers close to the Jewish settlement of Bet El, in the West Bank city of Ramallah, after Israel barred Palestinians from Jerusalem's Old City as tensions mounted following attacks that killed two Israelis and wounded a child The IDF named the attacker as Muhammad Tarayra and gave his age as 17, but conflicting reports spelt the name as Mohammad Tra'ayra or Tarayreh, and said he was 19. His cousin, Adnan Tarayra, said he had dropped out of school and was working in a bakery, and that shocked relatives believe he may have been driven by the death of another cousin who was shot dead during a car ramming attack. A statement from the US State Department condemned in the strongest terms the outrageous terrorist attack, calling the stabbing unconscionable. Later in the afternoon, two other Israelis were stabbed and wounded in the city of Netanya later in the afternoon, with the suspect shot dead by an armed civilian. Hamas has praised previous attacks but had issued no comment on the stabbings by Thursday evening. Palestinians have killed at least 33 Israelis and two visiting US citizens in a wave of street attacks, mostly stabbings, since October. Israel ups security In the same period, Israeli forces have shot dead at least 198 Palestinians, 134 who were allegedly carrying out or attempting attacks. Others were killed in clashes and protests. The latest incident came after security was increased in Israeli cities following a shooting attack at a Tel Aviv shopping center that killed four people on 8 June. Palestinian leaders say assailants have acted out of desperation over the collapse of peace talks in 2014 and the expansion of Israeli settlements in occupied territory that Palestinians seek for an independent state. The United Nations views the settlements as illegal but the designation is disputed by the Israeli government. The United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process said an upcoming report by international mediators will call on Israel and the Palestinians to urgently reverse key obstacles to peace, including Israeli settlement expansion, the Palestinian Authority's lack of control over Gaza and continuing violence, terrorism and incitement. Nicolay Mladenov told the Security Council that the report by the Quartet the UN, US, European Union and Russia - will recommend ways to address these negative trends and reiterate last September's call for Israel to give the Palestinians greater civil authority on Thursday. He expressed hope that both sides would move the peace process forward based on the report, which is expected to be released Friday. But he stressed that a final peace agreement can only be reached by direct Palestinian-Israeli negotiations. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A US-led coalition conducted airstrikes on Wednesday reportedly killing at least 250 Isis militants in the Iraqi city of Fallujah. The officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters that the number of casualties is subject to change. If the numbers hold true, the strikes will mark one of the most deadly strikes against the terror network. Officials said at least 40 vehicles were destroyed in the airstrikes. There was a strike on a convoy of Isis fighters trying to leave a neighborhood on the outskirts of southern Fallujah that we struck, one US defense official told Fox News. Recommended Read more Dozens killed after suicide bombers attack airport in Istanbul The announcement comes one day following the massacre at Turkeys largest airport that took the lives of 41 people and injured 239 others. While no militant groups have claimed direct responsibility for the bombings, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has said that all signs are pointing to the so-called Islamic State group. According to analysis by our security forces, first indications point at Daesh as perpetrators, Yildirim said during a press conference at the airport. What is noteworthy is that this attack came at a time when our country is putting up a merciless fight against separatist terrorism and recording significant success. CIA Chief John Brennan said that the attack displays the depravity" of Isis. "Weve made, I think, some significant progress, along with our coalition partners, in Syria and Iraq, where most of the Isis members are resident right now," Brennan told reporters in Washington. In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Show all 12 1 /12 In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Smoke rises after airstrikes by US-led coalition planes as Iraqi security forces advance against Islamic State extremists in Fallujah, June 15, 2016 AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Iraqi security forces advance during heavy fighting against Isis militants in Fallujah, Iraq, on 14 June AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia militia say that moving resources from Fallujah towards the area near Mosul was a 'betrayal' of the battle for the city GETTY In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Hospital sources said 18 bodies were recovered from the river over the weekend AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Up to 60,000 civilians were feared trapped in Fallujah at the start of the Iraqi operation AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters hold an Isis flag in an operation east of Fallujah the terror group has lost ground in both Syria and Iraq AFP/Getty In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters hold their weapons as they gather near Falluja, Iraq, June 4, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Pro-government forces bid to take back ground from Isis in Fallujah MOADH AL-DULAIMI/AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Smoke billows on the horizon as Iraqi military forces prepare for an offensive to retake the city AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah A member of the Iraqi security forces fires artillery during clashes with Isis militants near Fallujah, Iraq, 29 May, 2016 Reuters In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Iraqi government forces fire a rocket near al-Sejar village, north-east of Fallujah, on May 26, 2016, as they take part in a major assault to retake the city from the Islamic State group AFP/Getty In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters and Iraqi security forces advance towards Fallujah Thaier Al-Sudani/Reuters "But Isis' ability to continue to propagate its narrative, as well as to incite and carry out these attacks I think we still have a ways to go before were able to say that we have made some significant progress against them. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Both Remain and Leave camps have been agreeing on very little in the wake of the shock EU referendum result. However, according to one post-Brexit survey, students from both sides have managed to agree on two major factors. A combined 91 per cent feel Brexit campaigners insufficiently investigated the impact on education, while 57 per cent think their university failed to provide adequate information on the impact of a Brexit vote. The survey* has been carried out by graduate careers site TARGETjobs which also looked at student perceptions the day before the referendum to find almost 83 per cent say they would vote Remain. Post-referendum, a staggering 91 per cent of Remainers have said they believe securing work will now be more difficult. In contrast, the survey reflected a considerably more optimistic outlook from those who voted Leave; 86 per cent of students in this camp have said they are not concerned about the difficulty of finding work now the UK is set to leave. Leave students have also emerged as being significantly more positive in many things related to higher education, such as European study options and provision of research grants, which they believe will remain minimally affected, unlike their Remain counterparts who have expressed major concerns about the future of their academic lives. Many Leave students also conceded that education issues may be temporarily affected, but it was necessary to combat wider issues, such as better regulation of immigration, the ability to control our own laws, and stronger sovereignty. Chloe Burgess, director at GTI Media, acknowledged how, despite differing stances on the referendum, it was encouraging to see 99 per cent of respondents had registered to vote. Burgess continued: Its inevitable that opinions would be divided among the student body, but they all share a common interest in playing an active part in their countrys future. This political inclination will, no doubt, be further expressed in the coming months, as university and careers issues are increasingly brought to light post-Brexit, and we look forward to hearing what the UKs students have to say. Recommended Read more How the EU referendum managed to fail young people The Brexit result, however, will undoubtedly cause concern among the graduate jobs market; one day prior to the referendum, it was revealed half of the countrys top graduate employers would be forced to reduce their recruitment intake if Britain voted to leave the EU, with the sectors of banking and finance, retail, media, technology, and law most at risk. David Rivel, CEO of PathMotion - which revealed the finding in a study, said: British graduates are not protected, despite some employers shifting from EU to British graduates. The survey also reveals employers are worried at the prospect of losing access to the talent pool that they can already tap into. *7,000 respondents from TARGETjobs student database Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Health Check email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} It had been thought that drunkorexia, the trend of skipping meals in order to save calories to drink alcohol, was anecdotal, even something of a myth. However, as it turns out, the practice is very much a reality - and becoming worryingly popular among young women, particularly university students - as it is revealed almost 60 per cent of female undergrads admit to drunkorexic behaviours. PhD student at the University of South Australia (UniSA), Alissa Knight, brought the startling fact to light having conducted a study into the practice after learning of it existing in the US. Published in Australian Psychologist on Thursday, the school of psychology student described how the American research suggested young female adults had begun a new problematic trend that intertwined two major health problems in Western countries - disordered eating and alcohol misuse - but couldnt find any evidence for its prevalence in Australia. Having carried out a study, Knight found a considerable percentage (57.7 per cent) reported frequently engaging in various disordered eating, and other extreme weight-control behaviours, a quarter of the time or more in the three months before. Student news in pictures Show all 34 1 /34 Student news in pictures Student news in pictures South Korean policemen detain a student demonstrator during a protest against South Korean President Park Geun-Hye EPA Student news in pictures South Korean policemen detain student protestors during a protest against South Korean President Park Geun-Hye outside the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea. The protesters demanded that the parliament takes steps to impeach President Park Geun-Hye EPA Student news in pictures Filipino demonstrators face off with anti-riot police during a protest near the US Embassy in Manila, Philippine EPA Student news in pictures Hundreds of protesters including Indigenous People, students and militant groups marched towards the US Embassy to protest against the presence of US military troops and condemning the violent dispersal which left at least forty people hurt including twenty police officers and three people who were run over by a police van EPA Student news in pictures A federal judge in Mexico has ordered that a once-fugitive police chief be held on charges of kidnapping in the disappearance of 43 students Student news in pictures A man holds up a photograph of a missing student with a caption reading 'We are missing 43,' during a meeting marking the 25-month anniversary of the disappearances of 43 students in the southern state of Guerrero, in Mexico City. A federal judge in Mexico has ordered that a once-fugitive police chief be held on charges of kidnapping in the disappearance of 43 students AP Student news in pictures Miguel Perez, an intern student from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, puts away his cell phone before walking into the operating room at the Dr. Isaac Gonzalez MartInez Oncological Hospital in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Once they complete their general surgery training, many residents are moving to the United States in search of better wages, one of the main factors linked to the current shortage of specialists in the Island Student news in pictures Fewer EU students have applied to start university courses in the UK next autumn. There was a 9% fall in the numbers who had applied for courses, according to admissions service UCAS. PA wire Student news in pictures University students protest against President Nicolas Maduro, in Caracas, Venezuela. Masses of protesters jammed the streets of Venezuela's capital on the heels of a move by congress to open a political trial against Maduro, whose allies have blocked moves for a recall election AP Student news in pictures University students protest against President Nicolas Maduro, in Caracas, Venezuela AP Student news in pictures Thousands, most of them high school students, march during a demonstration in Madrid, Spain, on a one day strike to protest about the country's education law that increases the number of annual exams AP Student news in pictures Students gather on the west mall to confront the Young Conservatives of Texas student organization over a controversial bake sale on The University of Texas campus in Austin, Texas. The Young Conservatives of Texas chapter at the University of Texas-Austin sparked the protest with an affirmative action bake sale. The club encouraged students to buy a cookie and talk about the disastrous policy that is affirmative action Student news in pictures Donald Parish Jr, right, confronts Electrical and Computer Engineering senior Dewayne Perry over a controversial bake sale on The University of Texas campus in Austin, Texas. The Young Conservatives of Texas chapter at the University of Texas-Austin sparked the protest with an affirmative action bake sale. The club encouraged students to buy a cookie and talk about the disastrous policy that is affirmative action AP Student news in pictures Brigham Young University announced that students who report sexual assault will no longer be investigated for possible violations of the Mormon-owned school's strict honor code that bans such things as alcohol use AP Student news in pictures Students of secondary education march to protest against the final examinations and LOMCE (The Improvement Quality Education Law) law, after a call by trade unions, in Murcia, Spain EPA Student news in pictures South African police have used stun grenades and rubber bullets to disperse hundreds of protesters who had marched to the parliament building to call for free university education, where the finance minister was giving a budget speech AP Student news in pictures Police break up student protests outside the parliament in Cape Town, South Africa Reuters Student news in pictures South African Policemen fire rubber bullets at student protestors in Cape Town, South Africa AP Student news in pictures A student protestor is hit by a rubber bullet in Cape Town, South Africa AP Student news in pictures An injured student is helped by colleagues during protest outside the parliament during South African Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan's medium term budget speech in Cape Town, South Africa Reuters Student news in pictures Plaintiffs and bereaved families of elementary school students killed in the tsunami that followed a major earthquake in northeastern Japan in 2011, show banners that say 'victory in a suit filed with the Sendai District Court' in Sendai. A Japanese court ordered municipalities to pay $13.7 million dollars to families of school children who were swept away to their deaths by the 2011 tsunami Getty Student news in pictures A group of student at Ewha Womans University calls for a thorough investigation into those involved in years of engagement with state affairs backstage by Choi Soon-sil, a personal confidante of South Korean President Park Geun-hye, at the school's front gate in Seoul, South Korea EPA Student news in pictures Students raise placards during a strike action called by the student union, in Madrid against university entry exams Getty Student news in pictures Libyans throw a newly graduated student into a fountain as they celebrate during the graduation ceremony for students from the Faculty of Pharmacy at the Al-Arab University in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi Getty Student news in pictures Libyans celebrate as they attend the graduation ceremony for students from the Faculty of Pharmacy at the Al-Arab University in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi Getty Student news in pictures Libyans celebrate as they attend the graduation ceremony for students from the Faculty of Pharmacy at the Al-Arab University in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi Getty Student news in pictures Thousands of Thai Catholic students take part in mourning tributes and in singing the Thai Royal Anthem to honour late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej at Saint Dominic School in Bangkok, Thailand EPA Student news in pictures Students of Silpakorn University paint portraits of the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej at the university campus in Bangkok Getty Student news in pictures A student of Silpakorn University paints a portrait of the late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej at the university campus in Bangkok Getty Student news in pictures St Andrews University students take part in a foam fight known as Raisin Monday in the Lower College Lawn behind St Salvator's Quadrangle following the Raisin Weekend PA wire Student news in pictures St Andrews University students take part in a foam fight known as Raisin Monday in the Lower College Lawn behind St Salvator's Quadrangle following the Raisin Weekend, an annual tradition where student 'parents' inflict tasks on the unfortunate first-years they have adopted as 'children' as part of a mentoring scheme PA wire Student news in pictures Students at the Cuba's National Ballet School (ENB) in Havana, Cuba Reuters Student news in pictures Students at the Cuba's National Ballet School (ENB) take part in a practice in Havana, Cuba Reuters Student news in pictures Students at the Cuba's National Ballet School (ENB) wait in line to enter a classroom in Havana, Cuba Reuters The young women in her study sample* all admitted to undertaking the practice while at, or after, a planned drinking event, to compensate for anticipated alcohol calories. Knight said: The most common drunkorexia behaviours in young female university students were skipping meals before a drinking event (37.5 per cent), consuming low-calorie or sugar-free alcoholic beverages during a drinking event (46.3 per cent), and exercising after a drinking event (51.2 per cent). These are dangerous behaviours because evidence shows young female adults who are binge drinking on an empty stomach, or after strenuous exercise, have increased alcohol toxicity, which dramatically increases their risk of developing serious physical and psychological health consequences, including brain and heart damage, memory lapses, blackouts, depression, and cognitive deficits. Knights research was supervised by supervised by UniSA Psychology Clinic Director, Dr Susan Simpson, who also revealed that, while some students reported engaging in eating disorder type behaviour regularly, an unexpected number reported they only used behaviours such as starvation, purging, extreme exercise, or taking laxatives when they anticipated the use of alcohol, such as on a Saturday night at a party. Knight continued: Drunkorexia appears to have evolved from the need for young girls to meet possibly the two most prominent social norms for young adults - drinking and thinness. At home in the UK, Emma Healey, spokesperson for eating disorders charity Beat, has previously said: Someone who skips a meal to drink isnt necessarily going to become an anorexic, but its obviously highly unhealthy and if people are vulnerable it could be a high risk behaviour. Speaking to alcohol awareness charity, Drinkaware, Healey continued: We always groan when the media starts talking about the latest orexias. The latest one was pregorexia, mums-to-be who obsess over their weight. But we do come across drunkorexia in the work we do with young people, even if they dont call it that. Its a difficult and sensitive area. *136 study participants met the following inclusion criteria: female, a current undergraduate Australian university student, between the ages of 18 and 25, and had consumed alcohol within the past three months If youve been affected by any of the issues in this article, please visit Drinkaware for a list of useful support services Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for weekly expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Imagine the love child of Apple and Reliant Robin and this is what you get. Nice-Cars are groovy, open-top, blue three-wheelers, each with an iPad-style screen tacked to the dashboard. Using this simple tech, drivers can follow a pre-programmed GPS tour of the entire Cote dAzur. Granted, these open-top dodgems have the pulling power of a scooter (49cc to be exact, 20 times less powerful than a Fiat 500). Yet they emit a magnetic appeal. Maybe its the shark teeth painted on the bumper. Maybe its the motorbike handlebars on which Im gripping for dear life. But as I cruise past the Hotel Negresco on Nices Promenade des Anglais, a bevy of ladies coo and cheer. Little matter that theyre in their 80s. Im sexy. And I know it. It may also help that Martin Ilias, the roguishly handsome founder of Nice-Car, is riding shotgun. His fleet of seven vehicles are currently on other self-guided GPS tours along the French Riviera, from Cannes to the Italian border. When a driver returns from Monaco they tell me they got more waves than a Ferrari, says Ilias. Hes not wrong. We pass a group of 60 joggers training for Nices Ironman event, all of whom wave and shout. Is that a record? I think it is. The Hotel Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais (Shutterstock) We park at Iliass showroom behind Le Meridien Hotel for the Nice-Car lowdown. Harnessing the soul of a scooter, each bubble car body is fitted with motorbike handlebars for steering. The right hand doubles at a throttle (there is no reverse gear). Plus one brake for the front two wheels; another for the rear wheel. Thats it. Both passengers also receive a pair of sexy blue shades that match the bodywork. Drivers can select a pre-planned itinerary in one of four languages, with audio piped from the waterproof speakers in the dashboard. Theres a 35 (30) blast around Nices top sights, from the Chateau hill down to the hip Port area; or a 70 three-hour trip to Monaco that takes in Casino Square and the Grand Prix route. Do many guests discard the digital tourist itinerary and simply take their buggy for a spin? Most do, concedes Ilias. They are just so much fun to drive. With a bespoke 90 half-day tour programmed into the screen, Im off. My requested itinerary takes in a dozen arty hotspots within a 30-minute drive from Nice. I pound along the Promenade underneath Henri Matisses old mansion, where a crocodile of schoolchildren smile at me in unison. Then around the Port corniche that Raoul Dufy painted, where tourists on Segways cheer me on. And before cruising into Jean Cocteaus former hometown of Villefranche, an entire wedding party does a communal wave. Ive turned more heads than Kim Kardashian in a Lamborghini. This rocks. Still, Im nervous about parking in Villefranches Parking Wilson (free for the first 30 minutes). As the Nice-Car has no reverse gear, Im required to push it physically when I back up. However, its early, and I manage to luck out with a drive-through space then trot two minutes along the seafront to the Chapel St-Pierre. In the 1950s, Cocteau redecorated this waterside church with mystical scenes from the life of St Peter. Local fishermen were used as models for his dreamscape (muscle-bound, doe-eyed, half-naked pecheurs flying through the ether). Many were less than pleased with the result. Cap Ferrat has seven public beaches (Shutterstock) I power out of Villefranche towards Cap Ferrat. My blue wheels receive waves from an Italian Vespa club and a professional dog walker (chihuahua being the local breed of choice). This coastal road, the Basse Corniche, which ribbons all the way to Italy, is the fastest part of my course. The seas of Villefranche shimmer from cobalt to topaz below, as Monaco glimmers on the horizon. My motors top speed is a heady 50km/h. But with wind in my hair and the engine vibrating like a Spitfire, it feels like Im doing 200. Cocteau is synonymous with Cap Ferrat. In 1950 he was invited to the Villa Santo Sospir on the end of the peninsula and ended up staying 11 years. With the help of friends including Pablo Picasso and Jean Marais, Cocteau frescoed the entire property with life-sized mythological visions. The villas current owner, Carole Weisweiller, graciously allows Cocteau fans to wander in her seaside home (tours guided by her housekeeper Eric cost 12). Its like being ushered inside a private Cocteau gallery on Europes glitziest stretch of coast. Cocteau fresco at the Villa Santo Sospir After a spin around Cap Ferrats seven public beaches (I have no time to stop and swim, tempting though it is), I race over Mont Boron to Nices haughty suburb of Cimiez. This plush quartier lords it over the seaside city below and it is the one place where my three-wheeler gets a few dismissive stares. The sentiment seems to be Del Boy? Mais non! Matisse once lived in Cimiezs Palais Regina, and the nearby Matisse Museum astounds, though Im more interested in the Marc Chagall Museum designed by Chagall himself where colourful oversized canvases adorn the bright, light-filled space. Alas, my four hours are up. I bomb beachward to drop off the motor. Ilias tells me his dream is to see his open-top vehicles for rent in London. But I do worry about the weather, he muses. Minutes later my heart skips as another Nice-Car putters past. I wave wildly, but theres no response. My magics broken. I may have zipped around the Riviera like Steve McQueen on a budget, but my mojos gone. Travel essentials Getting there The writer was a guest of train specialist GRJ Independent (01904 521 936; greatrail.com/grj-independent), which offers a three-day trip to Nices Hotel Gounod, including high-speed train travel from London St Pancras and BA flight home, from 455pp. Driving there Nice-Cars (nice-car.fr) offers one-hour car hire from 35 and full-day customised tours from 130. More information en.nicetourisme.com cotedazur-tourisme.com Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} This is an edited extract from an interview with Eritrean journalist Abraham T. Zere, for Index on Censorship magazine's 250th issue: In early 2016, journalists and staff members who held key positions in Eritreas ministry of information were required to fill out a detailed personal form, including information on their bank accounts, and where their family lived. The threat to those thinking of leaving the country was clear. It has been more than 10 years since I stopped working for the ministry of information. In that period, it has evolved into a centre of terror, more militarised than ever and more overtly interfering in journalists lives. In April, exiled journalist Bekeret Abraha gave an interview to Ethiopian radio station Radio Wegahta. Abraha, who has been jailed three times, confirmed that state journalists now had their performance measured mainly by the military, and many journalists have been imprisoned as a result. Since 2012, journalists have also been required to attend military drills and guard government offices. Eritrea currently ranks last (180th) in the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index. The Committee to Protect Journalists has called it the worlds most censored country. I was young when independent newspapers still operated in Eritrea, before they were banned in 2001. I was an active contributor to one of them, Zemen, during my last year of secondary school. If journalists stepped out of line, even slightly, they faced arrest and would only be allowed to resume their work after being rehabilitated. Information Minister Ali Abdu was also sending journalists to be jailed in army prisons, the most brutal in the country. For a long time I played safe. I was getting along well with the editor-in-chief and was valued as a prolific journalist who was available in emergency situations. This was until the newspaper published a letter that attacked my column, saying it was undermining Eritrean society. Knowing the system, I realised it was a warning. I was fairly certain the complaint had come from Information Minister Abdu. In my three years at Haddass-Ertra, I never had any personal contact with Abdu. I never approached him for a favour or approval, which was no doubt an unforgivable offence in his eyes. I was quite aware of his reputation for reading and approving all local news, and monitoring international news with an almost pathological fixation. I suspected he did not appreciate my articles. So the day after I read this letter, I handed my resignation letter to the editor-in-chief. My requests for permission to leave the country and take up a scholarship at a US university were repeatedly denied. I finally used my contacts to get approval for a study trip to South Africa in 2012 and from there travelled to the USA, where I remain today. To read the full piece in Index on Censorship magazine, click here. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Near East School of Theology in Beirut is housed in a bland grey and brown building near the Mediterranean Sea. A few days ago, the audience in its underground lecture theatre was witness to one of the most remarkable lectures on ancient and modern Islam in recent times, which had it been more widely advertised might have had just about every shade of religious protester huffing and puffing outside in the aptly named Jeanne DArc Street. The speaker was Dr Tarif Khalidi, one of Islams foremost scholars and translator of the latest English-language edition of the Koran, whose earlier works on Jesus in Muslim stories match his most recent anthology of Arab literature. The title of his address was an almost frightening world-beater: Does Islam need a Martin Luther? Khalidis short answer was yes, please, the more Luthers the merrier despite Luthers violent indictment of Islam. It wasnt clear whom Luther disliked more, the terrible Turk or the terrible Pope, and if youve got to shake up any religion you might as well do it in as wonderful a cascade of rhetoric as his. US airstrikes kill 250 ISIS fighters Khalidi recalled Lucretius castigation of all religions to so much evil can religion urge mankind and evil was all too obvious these days. It was obvious in all monotheistic religions, Khalidi insisted, among certain so-called fundamentalist and apocalyptic sects in the US, among racist and fundamentalist settlers in Israel, among Daesh [Isis] and other horrifying groups in our own immediate neighbourhood. Khalidi, a generously-bearded Palestinian who talks English with TS Eliot precision, called all this the Age of Dis-enlightenment, which should move us to study how and why religions can from time to time get lost, and mistake the road to heaven for the road to hell. Every 100 years in Islamic history, Khalidi observed, a renewer of faith a mujaddid would arise to breathe new life into the religion. The two great wings of Islam began their careers as reform movements, the Sunnis emphasising the importance of the unity of the community, the Shias emphasising the integrity of government, each splintering of these wings a form of reconstruction which now appear like two great trees with numerous branches. And the most urgent task today? To unpack the ideas of Isis and to show how and why its path leads to hell. There used to be a genuine if imperfect mosaic of tolerance in the Islamic world, Khalidi said, but the ripping and shredding of that tolerance must be judged a travesty, an anomaly, a historical aberration of epic proportions, which had its own antecedents. Khalidi examined the Azariqa branch of the 7th- and 8th-century Khawarij movement. Long before Isis, Azariqa was condemning to death kafirs, unbelievers the Azariqa required recruits to their movement to kill a prisoner in order to prove their sinceritythey considered it legitimate to kill both the women and children of their enemies or else to enslave and forcibly rape women of different religions and sects Khalidi took some comfort from the tendency of Isis, and its ancestors, to splinter violently, perhaps because of their literal and highly selective use of sacred scripture, both Koran and Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Mohamed) and their total indifference towards Islamic history, to say nothing of Islamic philosophy, theologyor Koranic commentary The major horizon of Isiss speculative thought appeared to be apocalyptic and thus an invitation to bring this about through dramatic acts of suicide which the Khawarij used to call selling ones soul to God. I should add that the relevance of this theological lecture in Beirut was painfully evident less than 48 hours later when no fewer than eight suicide bombers, almost certainly from Isis and at least half of them Syrians, blew themselves up about a hundred miles from us, in the Lebanese Christian village of Qaa. Philosophy and violent reality have always been rather close to each other in Lebanon. But Khalidi was also talking about dialectic, the mutual arguments in which Muslim scholars in pre-modern history would discuss openly though without resolution, for God knows best the meaning of holy texts. In recent times, there had been a radical change, Khalidi said. Islam was invoked from above, which allowed modern preachers to assert final or unassailable views with phrases like Islam forbids this but allows that or Islam teaches this and that. This is a view which lends itself to the literalism of texts rather than argument, happy in the pulpit and happy issuing fatwas on the most absurd grounds and topics, and unhappy when challenged. In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Show all 12 1 /12 In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Smoke rises after airstrikes by US-led coalition planes as Iraqi security forces advance against Islamic State extremists in Fallujah, June 15, 2016 AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Iraqi security forces advance during heavy fighting against Isis militants in Fallujah, Iraq, on 14 June AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia militia say that moving resources from Fallujah towards the area near Mosul was a 'betrayal' of the battle for the city GETTY In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Hospital sources said 18 bodies were recovered from the river over the weekend AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Up to 60,000 civilians were feared trapped in Fallujah at the start of the Iraqi operation AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters hold an Isis flag in an operation east of Fallujah the terror group has lost ground in both Syria and Iraq AFP/Getty In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters hold their weapons as they gather near Falluja, Iraq, June 4, 2016. Reuters In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Pro-government forces bid to take back ground from Isis in Fallujah MOADH AL-DULAIMI/AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Smoke billows on the horizon as Iraqi military forces prepare for an offensive to retake the city AP In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah A member of the Iraqi security forces fires artillery during clashes with Isis militants near Fallujah, Iraq, 29 May, 2016 Reuters In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Iraqi government forces fire a rocket near al-Sejar village, north-east of Fallujah, on May 26, 2016, as they take part in a major assault to retake the city from the Islamic State group AFP/Getty In pictures: Iraq battles to drive Isis out of Fallujah Shia fighters and Iraqi security forces advance towards Fallujah Thaier Al-Sudani/Reuters The scholar thus becomes a preacher. Ignore philosophy, theology, rationality. The Korans got all the answers. And now for what is probably Khalidis most sentient point. The rhetoric of Daesh [Isis] is merely the most virulent and violent form of this hijacking of authority, but the multiplication of absurd fatwas by ulama in totalitarian countries is an equally pernicious phenomenon. Lamentable too and urgently in need of reconstruction is the proliferation of institutions and colleges which teach the bare rudiments of law and thus quickly graduate preachers with an inadequate knowledge of other branches of Islam. This is particularly true of Sunni clerics whereas Shiite clerics, I would argue, are on the whole more broadly and more thoroughly trained. Now this is strong stuff to be heard in any society, let alone the modern (if thats the right word) Middle East. But I preferred Khalidis even more powerful argument about education, which reflects also upon our Western world. The Islamic curriculum is bleak, he claimed, because the humanities in general are currently under siege in most universities of the worldhistory, philosophy, literature: these are disciplines and departments struggling desperately to survive in the Noahs flood of career-oriented disciplines such as business or medicine or engineering or computer scienceswe must recognise that the humanities are crucial for the formation of a critical and sceptical intellectwhen we demote and impoverish the humanities, we can confidently expect fanaticism to prosper. And there you have it: Khalidi divides Muslim thinkers into those who regard the Koran as the end of knowledge and those who regard it as the beginning of knowledge. The Koran should be used to question the world, to confront its mysteries, as Khalidi says, treating Koranic language, as Matthew Arnold once advised us to treat the language of the Bible: fluid, passing and literary, not rigid, fixed and scientific. Khalidi wants a committee of interpreters, a round table of Martin Luthers. There was more much more in this brave vein. The slogan that Islam is both a religion and a state has become a favourite with politically ambitious Muslim clerics, and no religion known to Khalidi who makes an exception of Iran has failed to distinguish between Caesar and God, and Islam is no exception. And Amen to that. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Night was coming on as I arrived in Heathrow airport on Tuesday. In a waiting lounge at the airports central bus station, the urgent and meretricious tones of the television news could be heard. A gang of homicidal thugs had massacred 41 innocent people and injured 239 at Turkeys Ataturk airport. But then, right there, the media fanfare stopped. Unlike the recent attack in Orlando, or the terrorist assault on the streets of Paris last November, terrorism in Turkey isnt deemed worthy of a week-long investigation. British Prime Minister David Cameron hoisted the Belgian flag above Downing Street following the Brussels attacks earlier this year, but we wont see the same treatment for Turkey. So far, solidarity is yet to exceed hackneyed diplo-speak and statements of the obvious; Cameron described the attack as hideous, as if anyone needed telling. Why do we feel content with such a tepid reaction? After all, we would be expecting much more from our political leaders if it were in Europe or the US. Video shows moment Istanbul airport bomber brought down by police So why is it that when an attack like Brussels or Orlando happens, the world is forced to mourn (quite rightly) and the West becomes the centre of the worlds gravity yet when the producers of indiscriminate explosions strike in Beirut, Baghdad or Istanbul, it merits fleeting news coverage at best? Why will Jerusalems Old City Walls not be illuminated red with the Turkish flag? Why will there not be a barrage of celebrity tweets and tear-jerking speeches about the massacre in Ankara? Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Show all 20 1 /20 Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A mother of victims reacts outside a forensic medicine building close to Istanbul's airport AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Broken windows are pictured at the attacks and explosions site in Ataturk airport's international arrivals terminal AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Bullet impacts are pictured at Ataturk airport AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Police officers patrol at Istanbul Ataturk airport Reuters Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Workers clean the debris from the blasts at Istanbul Ataturk airport Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A wounded girl from the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack is transported to the Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers embrace outside Ataturk airport`s main entrance in Istanbul AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Medics carry wounded people to a hospital after a suicide bomb attack at Ataturk Airport in Istanbul EPA Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Relatives of the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack victims wait outside Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A Saudi tourist who survived the Ataturk Airport suicide bomb attack waits for his wounded mother outside the Bakirkoy Sadi Konuk Hospital Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul A Turkish riot police officer patrols Ataturk airport`s main entrance in Istanbul Ozane Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers wait at Ataturk airport`s main enterance in Istanbu, after two explosions followed by gunfire hit Turkey's largest airport Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Forensic police work the explosion site at Ataturk airport Ozane Kose/AFP/Getty Images Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers leave Istanbul Ataturk, after a suicide bomb attack Getty Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Armed security man escorts people from a car park at Istanbul Ataturk airport REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Armed security walks at Istanbul Ataturk airport Murad Sezer/REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Ambulance cars arrive at Istanbul Ataturk airport Osman Orsal/REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul An ambulance arrives at the Ataturk airport REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul The weapons used in the attack REUTERS Attack at Ataturk International airport in Istanbul Passengers leave Istanbul Ataturk, after a suicide bomb attack Getty The tutors of our moral indignation, the think-piece merchants and media pundits, have managed to outmanoeuvre our better judgement by inculcating a simple but politicised cognitive bias: we (Westerners) are killed in terrorist attacks, and its a tragedy; they (Arabs, Turks) die in terrorist attacks, and its an unfortunate norm in a destabilized region. Recommended Read more There is hope in the fight against Isis in the history of Islam In total, 41 people have been killed and 239 left injured after the attacks at Ataturk. And according to Iraq Body Count, 1,087 Iraqis were killed by suicide bombings in June alone. And no one flinches. It is a casual assumption, informed by lazy generalisations about the Arab or Muslim world including Turkey that violence is and will always be, an intrinsic part of life in the Middle East. This is not to try and discourage such acts of solidarity, as they are important mechanisms for defeating fascism, it is to question why the same demonstrations of grievance are not afforded to our Turkish and Arab brothers and sisters. But the persistence of tribal thinking about identity, and the indifference it produces in our news coverage and politics even in the face of great misery caused by the current wave of Islamist terrorism is a grim symptom of our political underdevelopment. Worse still, for as long as we remain divided and unsympathetic, it will be increasingly difficult to defeat the fascist pest of Isis and other fundamentalist sects. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Like Stephen Crabb, I too grew up in a council house in West Wales. I can appreciate the need for hard work to get anywhere in life, especially when the odds are stacked against you. In fact, its a wonder hes got to where he is today which makes the nature of his politics so much more baffling. As one of his constituents, I have seen firsthand the disappointment wrought by his Thatcherite enthusiasm and I truly believe he has neither the authenticity nor competency to lead the country as Prime Minister. Whenever I see or hear someone parrot the Crabb story, I am disappointed with its hypocrisy. I do not wish to devalue his hardships, but the simple fact is the world he grew up in is not the reality faced by council tenants and those in similar situations today. The Conservatives have constantly undermined people seeking security in their time of need, from their stance on the bedroom tax, reducing benefits and the employment support allowance for the disabled through to increasing student fees. Crabb has been at the centre of a government that has sown resentment towards the poor - and he has consistently voted to remove the rungs from the ladder he used to climb up. Stephen Crabb on EU referendum While Crabb readies his bid for PM, not one statement has come from him about how West Wales will cope without the EU funding it depended on, or if he would look to match it. Then again, this is a man who ended up caught up in a 2009 expenses scandal, and voted for tax cuts for the rich and against public money to create guaranteed jobs for young people who had been unemployed long-term. It beggars belief, really, that he even has the gall to play up his roots, especially given that his Pembrokeshire constituency is one of the poorest in the UK and his office used to be right next to an area that ranks poorly in the Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation. Like most MPs (and people), Crabb is hardly entirely malevolent - but for all his political endeavours, I cant think what his ideological adherence has gained us, other than an award-winning food bank. His voting record would suggest he has a rather flagrant disregard for our needs. Crabbs story is one of moving from a background made stable by the welfare system into a job where he helped cut off each supporting string for the working class, one by one. To repeat that he has that background in an attempt to bolster his standing with the electorate as the token working class Tory is an affront to many people around the country. From those who have found it more difficult to reach full economic independence to those who have had to suffer from the indignation of poverty forced on them over the last six years, few of us feel enthusiastic about the idea of Stephen Crabb as our self-proclaimed working class hero. Some of the 17 million people who voted to sever our relationship with the EU have legitimate grievances towards the Westminster elite. Seeing what little Crabb has done or failed to do - for Pembrokeshire, Im sure he would offer no more than a cosmetic change for so-called compassionate conservatism. People are already upset with the status quo. This unsympathetic opportunist is not what the country needs. AA Ireland has been sold to private equity fund Carlyle Cardinal Ireland Fund and Carlyle Global Financial Services Partners for 156.6m, which includes consideration for cash left on the balance sheet. The deal for the insurer, which employs 430 people here, is expected is to be completed by the end of July. AA Ireland will continue to use its brand and intends to use the net cash proceeds for partial repayment of its debt. The business in Ireland will continue to be run by the current executive team, who have also invested in the company, led by Brendan Nevin, CEO. The company provides car and home insurance, as well as servicing, motoring advice and breakdown cover. Mr Nevin said the firm is "excited" that the Irish headquartered company would be run by its local management team. "Our new owners have a proven track record of success across the sectors we operate in, which will benefit the AA Ireland as we look to continue growing the company. Our focus is on delivering great products and services and our recent entry into the life assurance market is a signal of bigger and better things to come for our members and customers in Ireland. Read More Cardinal Capital Group managing director John Dolan said the private equity fund is eyeing up more Irish investments. "This is CCIs seventh investment in growing Irish companies since 2014 and we continue to explore further potential investments. The AA Ireland is a fantastic brand with a high degree of recognition and trust among consumers. "That trust, and the premium service provided by AA Irelands 430 employees is reflected in the high customer-retention rates. With our investment building on the existing strengths of the business, there is a strong platform to achieve the long-term growth opportunities that have been identified for AA Ireland. Carlyle Group managing director Peter Garvey said his firm has a "keen understanding" of the motoring and insurance services sectors. "Through the introduction of key value creation initiatives at RAC we successfully grew revenues by 83% across a four year period. We will look to bring that relevant experience to bear at The AA Ireland. We are committed to working with Brendan and the executive team, supporting continued investment to deliver fantastic products and services to the Irish market. The deal comes after the firm announced it would be moving into the life insurance market. Speaking at the announcement of its entry into the life insurance market AA commercial director John Farrell described it as a "natural extension" of the firm's product offering. "With a large customer base slanted towards urban professionals, there is a strong reliance on AA products as they reach critical milestones such as buying a home or having kids," he said. It is understood the move had been granted the full backing of the AA's new owners. The deal follows another significant move from Cardinal, which is State-backed, after it acquired Cork-based Abtran in a deal worth around 40m. Carlyle is an active investor in medium sized businesses here with stakes in Carrolls Cuisine, Lily O'Brien's, Payzone and cash in transit business GSLS. Brexit just keeps on throwing up strange line-ups. We have had Sinn Fein advocating support for keeping the North in the EU, despite advocating a No vote in nine separate EU referendums over 40 years. At the same time we had the Democratic Unionist Party advocating a Leave, despite the clear danger that it could destabilise the UK by goading pro-EU Scotland to crank up another independence referendum. Now we have yet another first. Since the foundation of the State, successive Irish governments have avoided having any truck with Scottish or Welsh nationalists, to the dismay of those Celtic nationalists. That applied to EU issues also. True, Fianna Fail had a short-lived linkage to the Scottish National Party in the European Parliament. And there were also social contacts after Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland increased their profiles with delegation offices in Brussels, from the mid-1990s onwards after EU changes under the Maastricht Treaty. But Dublin officially kept its distance - knowing that the real power rested in London and too much depended on keeping that relationship on track. The first hint of change came on Monday when Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin told the Dail that Ireland should support Scotland's case to cut a "remain" deal of their own, should they seek to stay in the EU. Surprisingly, the Taoiseach Enda Kenny yesterday said he had done just that at the EU leaders summit on Tuesday night. The odd thing is that exiting British Prime Minister David Cameron was present at the time to speak on behalf of all of the UK, and for EU purposes that includes Scotland. Now, Brussels-watchers were, and are, sceptical about the durability of Mr Kenny's "EU Caledonian sally forth". But it was remarkable as a first in the State's history for all of that. There was a predictable and utterly implacable rejection by France and Spain of the initiative taken by Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in meeting the EU Commission President to push the membership case. Spain fears an immediate emboldening of already advanced Catalan separatist ambitions, and France is not short of regions seeking to assert themselves. Scotland's case is complicated and Ireland's new-found Celtic fellow-feeling may not last. Ireland's main job is to get a series of deals on its own troubles - not least the North and the Border. In all political pragmatism, one must ask why Dublin should irritate not just the UK, but also France and Spain, at a sensitive time such as this. The first real steps in this long-term dance were played out in Belfast yesterday when Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan met the political leaders and Northern Ireland Secretary of State Theresa Villiers. The line-up here was intriguing. Ms Villiers was on the Leave side but more importantly, so too was Democratic Unionist Party leader and First Minister Arlene Foster. There are many who believe Ms Foster and the DUP really believed 'Remain' would carry the day. In fact we had another "strange but true" post-Brexit happening in Ian Paisley advising citizens to apply for an Irish passport. But the DUP leader and her party have done their best and say "a deal can be done" on the Brexit implications for the North. The interesting thing now is that the DUP need Dublin more than they did in recent times past. It's early days, but yesterday there was a remarkable sense of consensus about a Dublin-Belfast-London approach to the island of Ireland issues arising. We will watch Dublin Castle on Monday when Ms Foster, Martin McGuinness and colleagues meet the Taoiseach. In a post-Brexit world everyone has their own troubles. Taoiseach Enda Kenny has landed himself in a Brexit row after telling EU leaders - including British Prime Minister David Cameron - that Scotland shouldn't be "dragged out" of the European Union. Mr Kenny made the unprecedented intervention at the European Council "on behalf" of Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. The move marks a dramatic shift in Government policy, as ministers had been warned to maintain a diplomatic silence during the 2014 independence referendum in Scotland. His comments have drawn criticism from Mr Cameron's party, which suggested he was "batting" for Scotland while it is still a fully fledged member of the UK. Ukip, meanwhile, accused him of acting as Ms Sturgeon's "gofer". And it's unlikely to make him friends in parts of Europe such as France and Spain that have expressed opposition to separate negotiations with Scotland. Ms Sturgeon, however, defended Mr Kenny by insisting his intervention was "appropriate" and that he articulated the Scottish position on Brexit "very effectively". While the UK voted to leave the EU, the result in Scotland was 62pc Remain to 38pc Leave. Mr Kenny made his remarks to other EU leaders after the Council meeting finished in Brussels. He said that he met Ms Sturgeon at a British-Irish Council meeting the week before the referendum. He said that she asked him that if Scotland voted to stay in the EU while the overall UK result was to leave, he should raise her country's "very strong belief that they should not be dragged out of the European Union". Mr Kenny said he spoke to her again on Tuesday and that "she wanted that repeated, which I said on her behalf last evening". However, his intervention sparked ire among right-wing political parties in Britain. A spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives said: "It's critical for Scotland's sake that we enter these negotiations with the strength of the UK behind us. "It is no good Nicola Sturgeon trying to get other countries to go into bat for us, especially when the UK is already represented. "She's already had rejections today from other European leaders, and that should remind her just how important it is that the UK goes in to face these tough negotiations as one." Ukip Scottish MEP David Coburn said Mr Kenny would be better off focusing on ensuring "democratic self-governance" in Ireland "instead of acting as a gofer for the SNP and interfering in the internal affairs of the UK at EU level". He accused Mr Kenny of being a "raging Europhile" and "acting as a compliant puppy dog of the European Commission". Asked about Mr Kenny's intervention, a spokeswoman for Mr Cameron said: "It's not something we would comment on, as this is between Nicola Sturgeon and Enda Kenny." Ms Sturgeon herself met with EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker during her visit to Brussels yesterday and said she received a "sympathetic response". Grateful She said her country voted "both clearly and positively for the European Union", adding: "I've been here today to make sure that Scotland's voice is being heard." On Mr Kenny's remarks on her behalf at the European Council, she said: "This vote affects Scotland so I think it is appropriate. By all accounts he's done that [raising the issue of Scotland's vote] very effectively and I'm very grateful to him for that. Ireland is a great friend to Scotland down many generations." But her hopes of keeping Scotland in the EU suffered a blow as French President Francois Hollande ruled out talks, and Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy insisted that "if the United Kingdom leaves... Scotland leaves". Ms Sturgeon was asked about Mr Rajoy's remarks. "Nothing I've heard today surprises me," she said. "The formal process is not yet under way and I'll come back to the central point I've been making all along. I don't underestimate the challenges we face. "This is a situation I did not choose to be in, but as First Minister of a country in which more than 60pc of the population that voted, voted to stay within the European Union - frankly I wouldn't be fit to be First Minister if I was not seeking to give expression and effect to that democratic opinion that was made last Thursday." Commission President Mr Juncker said he would listen carefully to the Scottish case, but that neither he nor Council President Donald Tusk would "interfere in the British process". He added: "That is not our duty and not our job." European Union leaders including Taoiseach Enda Kenny warned that if Britain wants to access the single market, it will have to accept the free movement of citizens. EU Council President Donald Tusk said the remaining 27 member states "made it crystal clear that access to the single market requires acceptance of all four freedoms - including freedom of movement". "There will be no single market a la carte," he added. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said free movement of goods, services, people and capital must be accepted "without exception and without nuances". They also repeated their insistence that the UK trigger the exit process by officially notifying the EU of its intention to leave the bloc, as set out in Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty. "No negotiation without notification," said Mr Juncker, who has issued a gagging order on his senior officials, preventing them from holding any talks with their UK counterparts before the 'divorce' papers are filed. Meanwhile, Mr Kenny set out his stall to other European leaders, stressing Ireland's preference that Britain remain in the single market and our unique position given the Border with the North and the Peace Process. "Members around the table are well aware both of our relationship with Britain, the Common Travel Area and the fact that the Peace Process has been so important for Northern Ireland," he said. "Obviously from our point of view the best [outcome] would be to have Britain have access to the single market... but that means the acceptance of the four principles." He conceded that the rules on the free movement of people would create difficulty for the UK. "The Leave campaign, as you know, were vehemently in favour of reducing migration numbers. That's a matter for them to sort out," he said. Mr Kenny said that outgoing British Prime Minister David Cameron had told him he would help "whatever way he can" towards maintaining the open border with the North.He said that he had spoken to German Chancellor Angela Merkel and that "she understands very clearly Ireland's unique connection with the United Kingdom". Asked if he believed she would be an ally of Ireland in the future Brexit negotiations, he replied that, while he doesn't speak for Ms Merkel: "I have no reason to believe that she wouldn't." One thing that will please Mr Kenny is that there will be no treaty change, despite the European Parliament putting it on the table in a declaration on Tuesday. "It's about speeding up reforms, not about adding reforms. The general view is that there will be no treaty change," Mr Juncker said. However, French President Francois Hollande, supported by Belgian premier Charles Michel, called for radical reforms of the 19-member eurozone, including VAT harmonisation and a separate budget and parliament for euro countries. "Europe has to show its solidity, its solidarity and its capacity to take new initiatives," he said, "for Europeans and with Europeans." What next for Europe? Its early days, but the immediate shake out from last week's Brexit vote has seen a ramping down in aspirational rhetoric about the Union's future, especially from elected leaders. Instead we get a commitment to "concrete" policies aimed at addressing the now unmistakable popular clamour for "less Europe", not just in Britain, but across the buckling Union. In a joint statement this week, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Francois Hollande and Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi sketched out the idea. In a Union that has suddenly, it seems, become characterised by popular insecurity - about borders, about the lack of jobs and about the economy, EU institutions will move in with policies drawn up to address those fears. Presumably that means creating jobs, stimulating the economy and protecting borders. You'd have to wonder, if that is all possible, why it hasn't happened before now? Still, the logic, from the European establishment perspective, is sound. Instead of Brussels being regarded an alien and unaccountable irritant in the lives of ordinary people, the EU will become the solutions to problems. It's a policy familiar to all students of Irish history. Its called "killing home rule with kindness," and ironically was last seen here as a desperate attempt by British Tories to maintain an unpopular Union. It failed here in the 19th century, and if it just means carrying on as before with better PR, will fail again now. If the change is more fundamental, or open to being more fundamental, however, it has the potential to pull all of us back from the Brexit brink. That's because a less abstract - less French - Union, could yet appeal to practical minded (as they see themselves) Brits, A looser, more pragmatic Union could provide the basis for one of the two positive possible outcomes from Ireland's perspective of the Brexit debacle. They are: 1] Britain leaving the Union, but on flexible terms and retaining the key ties that bind it to the other member states in terms of trade and travel. That's Brexit in name, but not in fact. Good outcome 2] is Brexit in fact but not in name. This better, but harder to reach, outcome, would mean British and EU negotiators hammering out new terms that can be put to the British people as a compromise. To be credible, to British voters, will mean a real scaling back of Europe's integrationist drive, but, for European Unionists, it would maintain the shape, size and integrity of the Union. Both deals mean compromise, neither will fully please either side, but if the EU is really serious about providing practical solutions to real world problems, then the Brexit talks are an ideal place to start. Whatever EU-UK deal emerges from post-Brexit negotiations, there can be no return of the Border with the North, Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan has insisted. Mr Flanagan was speaking after talks in Belfast with Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers, as well as Arlene Foster of the DUP and Martin Ferris of Sinn Fein. A delegation from the power-sharing Belfast administration is due in Dublin on Monday to meet the Taoiseach and ministers at Dublin Castle to discuss the issue. But after yesterday's meeting, Mr Flanagan signalled a common approach was emerging to promote Ireland's interests in the upcoming EU-UK negotiations. "All parties agreed on the importance of the common travel arrangement and it's important that we have it - irrespective of whatever happens in the relations between the UK and the European Union," Mr Flanagan said. "Also on the issue of the Border, the fact that there is freedom of movement of people, goods and services like never seen before. It's important that this issue be reflected in the context of the rounds of negotiations that will take place into the future." Ms Villiers, who campaigned for a Leave vote, said the North could not maintain any kind of special status within the EU after the UK withdrew its membership. She said the EU rules did not permit part of a country remaining within the European Union. "The EU rules are clear - membership is at member state level, it's a national question," she said. A majority of voters in the North, 56pc, voted for the Remain side in last Thursday's referendum. But the entire UK voted to Leave by 52pc to 48pc, largely fuelled by the Midlands and North of England. Ms Villiers said the result stands and cannot be set aside. "That decision is going to be respected, that's what the government will take forward." Both Sinn Fein and the SDLP have said they do not want to be "dragged out of the EU" on the basis of English votes. But First Minister Arlene Foster and her Democratic Unionist Party campaigned for a Leave vote. Yesterday she said the focus must now be on getting the best possible outcome from UK-EU talks. The long leasehold interest in 24 Suites comprising a total of 62 bedrooms at the Clayton Hotel on Cardiff Lane in Dublin's docklands are being offered for sale by Savills Hotels and Leisure. Since opening in 2005, the four-star hotel, which is located within walking distance of the Bord Gais Energy Theatre and directly across the River Liffey from the landmark Convention Centre Dublin (CCD), has seen its 213 bedroom capacity extended to 304 bedrooms, making it one of central Dublin's largest and most successful hotels. Included in the list of major global employers in the immediate area are Accenture, AirBnB, Facebook, Google, HSBC and State Street, along with several leading law firms such as Matheson, McCann Fitzgerald and William Fry. This investment opportunity comprises of 24 hotel suites containing 62 bedrooms, situated in the original hotel which opened in 2005. Currently, the suites are leased to Hanford Commercial Limited, a subsidiary of Dalata plc and the entire hotel is operated under the Clayton brand. At 8m, or 129,000 per bedroom, the current annual rent of 467,200 represents a net initial yield of 5.6pc, with what Savills describes as very strong reversionary potential at the next rent review, which is due in January 2018. All leases are FRI with upward only rent reviews and an unexpired lease term of 24.2 years. Dalata Hotel Group PLC reported an adjusted EBITDA of 62.6m in 2015. In the early stages of the economic recovery in 2014, a private investor paid in excess of 1m for five suites at the hotel, then trading as the Maldron Hotel. The price represented a significant premium on the 850,000 which Denis O'Donoghue of Savills had been seeking for the suites, which were let to the four-star hotel on 26-year leases with 26 years to run. The rent roll of 104,500 gave the purchaser an initial return of 10pc on their investment. In 2015, the Dublin hotel market operated at 82pc occupancy, while revenues grew by 23pc. The first quarter of 2016 saw revenues swell by an additional 22pc. With limited new hotel supply expected before 2019, Savills anticipates strong profit growth and significant rental growth. Commenting on the sale of the suites, Savills' head of Hotels and Leisure, Tom Barrett, said: "This sale offers investors a rare opportunity to acquire a meaningful interest in one of Dublin's most profitable hotels. There is significant office development in Dublin Docklands, with a current potential pipeline of over 400,000m2. The Clayton Hotel is located at the epicentre of this development and can be expected to be a long-term beneficiary". Ryanair has asked the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg to annul the Commission's findings against the carrier. Photo: Bloomberg Ryanair has appealed a decision that in 2014 saw the European Commission rule that it had received illegal state aid to the tune of 500,000 from Germany's Zweibruecken Airport in the form of lower fees. The Commission said at the time that the payments were a "waste of public money", because the airport was 40km from Saarbruecken Airport. Ryanair cancelled its only service to Zewibruecken in 2009, and said it only ever carried 50,000 passengers from the airport. The case against Ryanair was one of a suite of actions taken against airlines using the airport. In total, the Commission found that 56m in subsidies given by the airport had to be paid back. That prompted the airport to file for bankruptcy. Ryanair has asked the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg to annul the Commission's findings against the carrier. It has claimed that its right to a proper defence was inhibited because the airline was not given access by the European Commission to the investigation file. Ryanair has also insisted that the Commission based its assessment on the one route the airline operated at Zweibruecken, "and disregarded the network externalities that the airport could expect to gain from its relationship with Ryanair". Ryanairs first ever head of public affairs a former Uber executive who was drafted to the airline to help champion its case in Brussels has left after just three months in the job. Cristian Samoilovich was headhunted from the global taxi firm and his appointment earlier this year as head of public affairs was hailed as a coup by Ryanair, whose relations with Brussels have been intensely fraught over the past decade in particular. But Ryanairs chief marketing office, Kenny Jacobs, confirmed to Independent.ie this morning that Mr Samoilovich left the airline a couple of months ago. Mr Samoilovich had previously been a senior manager of public policy at Uber, and had held roles with Boeing and Airbus. He has been replaced by what Ryanair has now described as its director of public affairs. The new director, Diarmuid OConghaile, starts the Ryanair job tomorrow. Hes joining from the DAA, which runs Dublin and Cork airports. He was general manager of strategy, planning and economic regulation there. His varied professional experience ensures that he brings a range of essential qualities to this role, which will be of great help to Ryanair as we continue to work with the European institutions and European governments to increase the competitiveness of the aviation sector, to the benefit of consumers, said Ryanairs chief legal and regulatory officer, Juliusz Komorek. 'If your dream doesn't scare you it isn't big enough," remarked Aidan O'Shea when asked about Voxpro's overwhelming growth. The firm's managing director has helped oversee its consistent rise in revenues as well as its meticulously curated client list. Sitting across from the 40-year-old father of four in the Ballsbridge Hotel as he outlined Voxpro's US expansion, he is utterly confident of business model and its rapidly expanding turnover. Voxpro is an outsourcing firm that was established by husband and wife pair Dan and Linda Kiely in Cork back in 2002 and boasts clients such as Google, Nest, AirBnb and Fintech company Stripe. The company is all about customer service - but for companies that fit with its vision. "Take AirBnb for example. Most people think it's a technology company but it's not it's about an experience. So what we do is support that experience. "Most people love it but things can go wrong. If you turn up and there's nobody there or you can't get the keys or there's a problem with the apartment. "What we do is offer immediate support," O'Shea told the Irish Independent. "We have developed a niche working with the AirBnbs, the Googles, the Stripes. They didn't exist a number of years ago, they're not traditional companies. AirBnb is probably seven or eight years old, Stripe is about three or four - but their household names globally. "They've scaled massively very, very quickly. You can't do that without working with partners on the outside." The company's client list consists of some of the hottest tech firms around with contracts going up into the tens of millions. While starting off O'Shea conceded that Voxpro took what it could get in terms of business, however now in its more established position in both Ireland and the US - it has become more selective. In order to stay true to its brand O'Shea says that it has both turned away potential and existing business when clients' views on how the service should function diverge too far from his own. "As Voxpro was growing, as with any company you take what you can get, but then it comes back to the brand again. "We realised that if we want to be putting ourselves out there as an international brand working with these type of companies, they will look at the companies we're working with. "We have turned down business. We still do. "We've found that over time we work well with them (young companies). We have our own culture at the core but we're able to adapt to them. They're growing really fast so we need to be really flexible," he said. Voxpro has a very clear view of who it will look to target going forward and O'Shea said it isn't likely to be banks, telcos, or utility firms. Mr O'Shea said the company is keeping a very close eye on the financial services space, which is currently being disrupted by financial technology companies (fintech). That commitment to the brand trickles right down into the office space. O'Shea describes it as a place that young people want to work - one that differs a lot from traditional outsourcing companies. The company has a certain criteria it looks for in a potential employees too. While he concedes that some of the criteria may overlap with the likes of Google he said that it is "similar, but different". Voxpro's chief executive Dan Kiely has described the idea of an initial public offering as a viable option once revenue hits around 100m. It seems that target has since been moved thanks to the firm's rapid expansion into the US. Mr Kiely, alongside his wife Linda, and Mr O'Shea have grown the business to the point they'll expand to three US locations. "Our current one is in California. A lot of our customers are headquartered there, so there's an advantage to being close to them. "Some of their engineers and product guys can get in their cars and drive up the road and be there in an hour and a half. "Our next site will be more east coast, different time zone, closer to ourselves to serve the east coast of the US a bit better - and California is expensive." The company's US move is in line with it major leaps in revenue growth over the last number of years. Mr O'Shea said the company was "there or thereabouts" in meeting last year's target of 36m - this year the firm expects that number to jump to around 60m. It has been that revenue stream that has helped the company continue to expand from the off, however as it looks to the more expensive US market - some bank backing has been secured. "We finished a three-year business plan in January, we're six months in and we're looking at it and thinking - a lot of the stuff we wanted to do in three years we've kind of done or in the process of doing, so everything is quite front loaded." Voxpro currently employs 1,550 people worldwide, although that number looks set to rise significantly over the next year. The company has just concluded a hiring round where it brought in 150 new staff and is looking to add between 400 to 500 new workers in the US. While continued growth in staffing levels in Ireland is expected, hiring may begin to level off soon at its Cork base, where it currently employs 1,100. Given Voxpro is a people business, O'Shea took the opportunity to highlight the benefits of setting up in Ireland. "The natural Irish skills - we're interested in people, we're good with people, we have a really good attitude toward work. As we internationalised I've actually seen how strong it is. "For Ireland people skills is one of the things but you still need the education, you still need the specific skills. "When we're recruiting people the skills are important but the culture fit is as important. "You need to have fairly clear vision and values to understand why you do what you do and how you do it - because not everyone wants to be part of that and that's fine," he said. Voxpro turned over 18m last year. One of the main challenges facing it was scaling the business effectively. "We are scaling about 80pc year on year for the last two years. It's a lot - we went from about three hundred people two years ago to 1,500 this year. "What we heard for a long time was that they (customers) liked what we did, they liked working with us, not just the service but they liked doing business -because again they have such demands given the speed they're going at and they need you to be able to do that as well and sometimes big corporates aren't able to move as quickly. "We heard that they weren't that happy with a lot of providers in the US so we were thinking can we make a go of this?" Setting up shop in the States doesn't come cheap - with a lot of the cost at the front end. "You're talking about millions per site, there's a facility component, you've got to hire a lot of staff up front before you deliver the service. "You've got to transplant some of what you do over there so you've got to bring some staff over you have to put them up, you have to pay for travel - it is a big investment." Six months on from setting foot on American soil and he deems it a risk that has paid off. Understandably the size and scale of the US market played a key role in attracting the business over. "A nice contract here is a nice contract; a nice contract over there could be ten times the size." Earlier in the year Mr O'Shea was added to the board of the company alongside PayPal VP Louise Phelan. O'Shea was full of praise for Ms Phelan, saying the context she offers in an area it will look to tackle is invaluable. Expansion right now is what Voxpro is in and it's rapid expansion too. The company's high-end international client list is about 11 firms long. While it may not sound the most extensive of lists, it is the size of the companies that is more impressive. With the 100m target firmly in its sights earlier than had been previously touted, Voxpro may not been overly keen to run with an IPO once that target is surpassed. "So 100m was incredibly scary when we came up with it first, which was about a year ago. In 2014 we only turned over 18m, so thinking of getting to 100m was very scary, whereas now, one year on, it's very achievable." A number of internal Eir reports have highlighted shortcomings in the company's relations with rival firms which sell services using Eir's incumbent copper network. The head of BT Ireland has called for Eir to be broken up into "functionally separate" divisions, citing "non-performances" on competition issues. "It has to take place," said Shay Walsh, managing director of the Irish BT operation. "At present, there's no functional separation. There's no separate door for retail and wholesale. Until you have a verifiable separation of the wholesale systems from the retail systems, then it's hard to see how much progress they're making." The call comes as the telecoms regulator Comreg prepares a major review of Ireland's telecoms rules. A number of internal Eir reports have highlighted shortcomings in the company's relations with rival firms which sell services using Eir's incumbent copper network. However, Eir is set to resists any moves to further separate its wholesale and retail divisions. "A review of our wholesale governance model is underway by Comreg and we are fully engaged in that process," said a spokesman for Eir. "Eir is surprised by the position taken by BT Ireland given that the BT Group chief executive Gavin Patterson has approached Eir and other European telecommunications operators, seeking our assistance to resist moves towards further functional separation proposals that are currently under consideration by the UK regulator Ofcom." "In the light of the current unprecedented uncertainty as a result of the UK referendum, it is unacceptable that a UK company operating across Europe should have an inconsistent approach to pan-European telecommunications regulation." However, a BT Ireland spokesman said that the operator was "simply seeking the type of functional separation that already exists for BT in the UK". Earlier this year, the UK telecoms regulator decided against a structural separation of BT from its wholesale division. Interview - p6 "Tell them the issue and that you are flagging now and that you may be looking for a full refund of the money..." Photo: Stock/PA Q Hi Dermott. On 17 February, I booked a return flight to Toronto through a search engine site and paid 614.43 by Mastercard. However, despite my best attempts I can get no information from the airline regarding my booking with them. Since May, I have been emailing both the site and the airline without getting any information. All they say is they are checking. Can you tell me what my rights are please? Thank you, Leo A Hello Leo. I think you need to understand that you have a very real problem here and must now act pretty fast to have it remedied. First of all, I am assuming you have, (a) no receipt for this booking; and (b) seen this charge go through on your credit card statement and paid for it. So, get in touch with Mastercard - immediately - the number will be on the back of your card. Tell them the issue and that you are flagging now and that you may be looking for a full refund of the money as you have nothing to show for the outlay. You will be seeking the refund under the provisions of Section 14 of the Sale of Goods & Supply of Services Act, 1980 (specifics of this for readers on another occasion). The lack of receipt or flight detail and confirmation worries me. Something has gone wrong and your flight is very likely oversold and they are letting this slide until the last minute. So, send an email to both sites stating exactly the same detail and making it clear that you want the flight you have paid for - or an alternative seat of better value or class for that date. Add that you want immediate confirmation of your booking or you will refer the matter for legal action through the relevant aviation authority. That said, the engine website advises they are registered in Switzerland - in other words you will have your work cut out for you there. You are too trusting, Leo, and this is late in the day. Mastercard are your very best friend at this stage for support as they can help you put pressure to get this sorted out! QHello, I recently bought an English language course online and it didn't turn out as I expected it be. So I cancelled within a week from its begining. But they informed me that I couldnt get any of the investment back because it was on the Terms and Condition Policy. They claimed that the school's policy was displayed on their website, but they didn't inform me of that. Is there any step I could take in order to solve this problem in a way that I don't get to carry all the burden? Kind regards, Karina AThe position now, Karina, is that you have a legal contract for the full course. An offer was made, you accepted it and paid the fee. It is assumed that you did all of this after reading the terms and conditions. However, you do not mention in any detail why it was that the course was not what you expected. The question is if it was not what was promised and offered to you? If it was not - and you can show this - then you can take a case through the Small Claims Court (see www.courts.ie) to have your fees repaid in part or in full. THE roll-out of a centralised credit register to avoid a new credit bubble has been further delayed, the Central Bank has admitted. It was supposed to be in operation by now, but regulators are unable to say when it will be in place. One of the original deadlines would have seen the register in operation by 2013. The latest delay will mean it will have taken seven to eight years to get it up and running. The lack of a centralised source of credit data has been identified as one of the culprits for catastrophic lending, since banks and other institutions were not able to see the full borrowing history of companies and individuals. Setting up a central credit register was one of the financial sector reforms demanded by the European Commission, European Central Bank and International Monetary Fund at the start of the bailout programme in 2010. But the project has been dogged by difficulties and delays. A spokeswoman for the Central Bank did not directly answer when questioned about the reason for the latest delay. The regulator insisted it continues to make progress on the central credit register implementation project, since the enactment of the Credit Reporting Act in December 2013. "As required by the legislation, the Central Bank is currently consulting with the Data Protection Commissioner on the draft regulations that specify the data which can be collected and published by the central credit register." It added that pending the outcome of this consultation, "the exact timing of the making of final regulations is uncertain". The Central Bank has engaged Italian credit checker CRIF to operate the new credit register. However, The Central Bank will own the central credit register data and will act as data controller under the Data Protection Acts. It will take six months for lenders to submit data on loans to the register once regulations are finalised, the Central Bank said. "The final deadline for data submission will be influenced by the scale of the technical and operational changes to be implemented by over 500 lenders." Loans made by moneylenders will not be captured in register until the second phase is operational. This is because credit reporting obligations will apply to over 500 lenders, such as banks, credit unions, local authorities, NAMA, asset finance houses and money lenders. The register will require all lenders to submit personal and credit information on loan agreements of 500 or more to the register. Lenders will have to check the database for credit applications of 2,000 or more. As most moneylender loans are below this level, they will escape having to check the database. Borrowers will be able to get copies of their credit report when the register is operational. One hundred years ago, Shay Walsh's grandfather worked in the cable station on Valentia Island where the world's first transatlantic cable was laid. Today, Dublin-raised Walsh sits atop BT Ireland, a regional telecoms giant heading for almost 1bn in annual revenue and 600 staff. Unlike consumer-facing rivals such as Eir or Vodafone, BT Ireland's main business lines reside in providing telephone and broadband connections to huge multinationals and government bodies. It also now has a growing business segment providing backhaul services to retail operators such as Sky Ireland. But as it contemplates the telecoms industry after Brexit, the company continues to have a bone to pick with Eir and the telecoms regulator. Adrian Weckler (AW): In Ireland, BT's biggest bugbear has been around the regulation of Eir. Some of your complaints, such as repair times access between retail and wholesale divisions, appear to have been addressed by Eir's own compliance reports and by Comreg. Is it still an issue? Shay Walsh (SW): There has been a lot of frustration about this. It's simple things like Eir's call centre being open half an hour for their retail arm before their wholesale arm. These were just discriminatory practices that advantaged the retail side of their business and disadvantaged the wholesale side of their business. AW: Didn't they rectify those things, though? SW: Well the [Eir internal] Stiles report has come clean on that stuff. And to be fair, they are fixing things as they go along. Things like the address databases which have cost our wholesale customers loss of opportunity. I think the issue now is that we're impatient for Comreg to get people in place to address all of the non-performance issues in the Stiles report. We'd like to see them all boxed off with Eir. One thing we'd still have issue with is their aspiration to reduce non-performance areas to five or six issues. There should be none. There isn't an acceptable number of non-performances. So we're really trying to get Comreg to make Eir accountable. AW: So what are you going to do about it? You and other operators have intimated more than once that legal action against Comreg at a European level was being considered. But so far, we haven't seen any evidence of this being progressed. SW: Well we have to make sure that they do what they have committed to do. Without a doubt, if that doesn't happen there have to be higher levels of accountability we can hold them to. AW: The chairman of Comreg recently admitted that the breakup of Eir sits at one end of the spectrum in deciding possible remedies for Eir. Is that something you think might happen? SW: For us, it should be the way to go. Look at the way in which we have functional separation for BT in the UK. Openreach [BT wholesale] has separate systems and separate employees [to BT's retail arm]. There's mandatory training in our business. People are very clear about what they can or cannot do and who they can or cannot contact. And the only way that this can be put in place is if there's a fully thought out plan for functional separation in Eir. AW: So you think Eir should be separated into different divisions? SW: I think that has to take place. At present their wholesale network, Open Eir, has got a separate logo. But that's where it ends. There's no functional separation. There's no separate door for retail and wholesale. I know they're clamping down on some poor practices in retail sales. But until you have a verifiable separation of the wholesale systems from the retail systems, then it's hard to see how much progress they're making. Their retail team should go to the same front door as my retail team. At the moment, that's not the case. I know that this would be a cost on the business. But in BT we went through that pain eight or nine years ago to create Openreach. And ultimately you do reap benefits. AW: But doesn't BT face the same criticism in the UK that you're levelling at Eir in Ireland? For example, BT rivals such as Sky and Talk Talk complain about delays in wholesale repair times, which is the responsibility of BT Openreach but which hits the retail customers of your rivals. SW: There is absolutely no comparison. Openreach [BT's wholesale arm] are held to a far higher standard by Ofcom than Eir are by Comreg. For example, it simply would not be countenanced to have a helpdesk that is open half an hour later for our wholesale customers than it is for retail customers. It just wouldn't be tolerated. Such non-performances are clamped down on and immediately rectified. I would agree that we couldn't point the finger at Eir for doing certain things if we were at the same lark over in the UK. But everything that we have directed as a complaint against Eir is absolutely valid. And we do not do any of those things in the UK. BT is held to the highest standards of regulatory compliance in Europe. In fact, we're probably the only incumbent telecom that has volunteered to have functional separation. AW: What about BT's ambitions for the future in Ireland? In the UK, BT has moved into the mobile space with the 16bn acquisition of mobile operator EE. Is BT considering a mobile business in Ireland? Could it launch an MVNO? SW: Strategically, we're not ruling an MVNO out. But we're not ruling it in, either, because of the general business landscape in Ireland. We're quite focused on our multinational customers, our government business and our wholesale business. AW: But aren't some of those customers being attracted to total telecoms offerings from companies that can now offer them fixed line and mobile services? SW: Some are. But if you look at our wholesale customers, they are hugely valuable to us. As it happens, they're also ones we would come into competition with if we were to set up an MVNO. So there would have to be a really compelling reason to do it because we'd be in danger of becoming a competitor to our wholesale customers. AW: A large part of BT's business still rests in copper wires. With the advent of fibre rollouts, do you think copper could soon be obsolete? SW: The answer to that depends on the investment you put into the network. We're now trialling next generation broadband that delivers speeds of between 400 and 500 megabits per second on a normal copper line. BT is investing in moving the fibre further and further out into the network so that it's closer to customers. We're reducing the copper lengths to under a kilometre. That gives us the ability to pump faster and faster speeds down that line. The copper deployed in Ireland by Eir is no poorer than in the UK, so the majority of it is capable of delivering speeds of up to 500 megabits. But that requires an investment in moving fibre further out into the network. If you were to start from scratch today, you'd probably put fibre into every premises in the country. But it's commercially not viable to do that. However, it is commercially viable to move the nodes further out into the network, connect them to fibre and then reduce the copper length to deliver those faster speeds. AW: So you think copper is here to stay? SW: Well it's certainly not dead. And this is for a simple economic reason. To deliver fibre into every single premises requires drilling through walls and digging up pathways. It requires a much longer return on investment. AW: But that's what the National Broadband Plan is promising, isn't it? SW: Well yes. That's the hope anyway. AW: Do you think the National Broadband Plan will be delivered on time? SW: The six month delay is unfortunate. But they need to get it right. It is almost a human right at this stage to have access to superfast broadband. We can't possibly expect to remove the dependence on Dublin as our main hub unless we can distribute some of the access out into the country. But we'll wait to see how that's done. AW: In your last set of Irish accounts, you reported revenues of 860m. How much are you investing in Ireland? Does any of it come from the UK? SW: We wash our own face. But we're continually investing in fibre here. We now have over four and a half thousand kilometres in our network. AW: With a high proportion of your business focused on multinational companies, you must have an interesting insight as to what the pipeline is like for inward investment into the country. What is that pipeline like? SW: Well I can say that our pipeline is growing strong. We're doing 10pc more sales this year than we were last year. And that was 10pc more than the previous year. We're seeing a huge amount of growth in inbound services for large tech companies. Some of this is 'land and expand' business for the likes of Airbnb and Facebook. Working closely with the IDA, we see a lot of opportunity coming down the pipeline. We also see domestic customers seeking to build their business abroad and doing very well. Companies like Greencore, Glanbia, Kingspan and Glen Dimplex. AW: And where does BT Ireland now sit within the overall BT group? SW: There's been some changes at a group level. The Irish business focuses on corporates, the government sector and wholesale. It's probably nearly doubled in size and scope in terms of what we do. We are now sitting as an end-to-end business within that. We have nodes connecting 197 countries. So if any organisation wants to land in Ireland, we're able to give them access to the global network. So they don't worry about whether they backing the wrong horse coming to Ireland because they'd be at the edge of Europe in terms of tech and communications. It's important that that's not a barrier entering the Irish marketplace for the likes of born-in-the-cloud companies like Stripe. We're the only provider currently able to give a customer links to AWS and Azure and become a single point of contact for everything. AW: Will a UK exit from the European Union affect BT's business in Ireland? SW: At the moment, we don't think so. But there could be unforeseen knock-on effects, not limited to the fact that there's a political meltdown going on. But we're probably insulated because we're heavily focused on multinationals and wholesale customers AW: Could some of these multinationals mix Ireland up with the UK? SW: We haven't found that. And I don't think that'll ever happen. They look at our corporate tax rate, access to the European marketplace and access to other Europeans coming in to work in Dublin. We get a lot of traction in organisations that have based their CIO functions for European or global networks in Ireland. AW: Could you benefit from Brexit in any way? SW: If multinationals are looking to move to Ireland, we're certainly willing to take advantage. Certainly as Ireland is now the only English-speaking member of the EU, there are obviously opportunities within our own group to take activities in. Is net neutrality creeping in the back door in Ireland? And if so, should you care? Today, 3 Ireland is announcing that its phone customers now get six months' "unlimited" music streaming through Deezer, the big Spotify and Apple Music rival. For 3 Ireland users, it's a nice free ride. And for Deezer, it's a potentially lucrative wedge into getting people to open accounts. But does it mean that Deezer streams will be afforded some sort of priority - however technically minor it seems - over other music streaming services? If so, that could offend against the spirit of 'net neutrality', which is the idea that all internet traffic must be treated completely equally, with no priority pathways. In case you're wondering why anyone would care about this, net neutrality is currently one of the big internet governance issues around the world. Both the US and the EU have promised to protect net neutrality as a general concept. The reason is that they don't want the internet to become the preserve of CocaCola, Nike, Toyota and WalMart. In other words, they don't want your broadband to connect faster to websites whose companies have paid off the broadband company (for 'premium' access speed by customers). But the whole net neutrality process is starting to look as leaky as that family-bought inflatable dinghy you survived on holidays in Dunmore East in 1988. While the principle behind net neutrality has huge appeal, there have to be questions now about how workable - or enforceable - it is. For instance, 3 Ireland is only following what rivals such as Vodafone and Meteor have been doing. In case you missed it, one of the eye-catching elements of Vodafone's recently-introduced TV services is that you can watch as much of it as you want on your Vodafone phone without any of it counting against your monthly data cap. This means that even if you have the cheapest Vodafone pay-as-you-go mobile plan, you can stream live TV on 4G for hours every day on your phone, racking up tens of gigabytes of additional monthly data and not pay a cent for it. This is called 'zero-rating'. And it sits somewhat uneasily with the idea of net neutrality. (Vodafone argues that, in net neutrality terms, zero-rating its own service is a different thing to zero-rating a commercial partner's service. But it doesn't really address the technical point of whether the traffic used by the TV stream is optimised over other traffic trying to get through.) Meteor has been offering its own zero-rated incentives. It has just introduced preferential browsing limits for Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, up to a whopping 60GB per month, no matter what your normal monthly data plan is. But if Snapchat is your thing, you're out of luck: Meteor is favouring Facebook and Twitter in its system capacity now. And the list goes on. All over Europe, operators have started to bundle services on zero-rated policies. No-one appears willing to take responsibility for slapping them down when they do so. So if it proves popular with customers, it may not be long before we start to see more upfront challenges to the net neutrality doctrine. Imagine, for example, that a struggling broadband operator offered you broadband of 5 per month provided you accepted faster web connections to, and once-a-day ads from, 10 nominated commercial partners of the broadband operator. I know of at least one telecoms operator who would like to try such a scheme. The question is: would you care? There are some who argue that strict net neutrality is naive. This position holds that operators routinely make decisions about prioritising some types of data over others for all sorts of operational reasons. It's unavoidable, they say: such calculations have always been done and always will need to be done. And then there are companies like Netflix, which offers to pay for equipment that will allow operators to speed up access to its online video streaming service. On one level, this is a breach of net neutrality. On another, it's a practical response to make sure that a new type of service works properly. While the EU has talked about protecting net neutrality, it has actually started to water down its thinking on the issue, partially for exceptions such as Netflix. Last summer, the European Commission announced a compromise on net neutrality that would see "specialised services" such as internet television allowed in new prioritised fast lanes. The basic rule of net neutrality is that internet providers like Vodafone, Eir or 3 Ireland should not be allowed to give priority to some web services over others, especially for commercial consideration. The principle is meant to protect smaller players, startups and ordinary internet users by keeping the web as unbiased (in access terms) as possible. But are we serious about respecting its boundaries? The next 12 months will be instructive on how much we really back the independence of those internet packets. US technology businesses like Google and Facebook toil to make the real world as borderless and global as the digital worlds they create. The physical version just got a lot messier in the second-largest market for these giant companies. Britain's vote to leave the European Union has fractured what was slowly becoming a single digital market into potentially two-or possibly more-jurisdictions for technology issues ranging from data privacy, competition, tax and recruiting. "After the vote in the UK, we are obviously entering a moment of some uncertainty and concern," Facebook public policy executive Joel Kaplan said at the Computer and Communications Industry Association's Transatlantic Internet Policy Reception earlier this week. Exhibit one in the new European reality for US tech giants is data privacy, an area where Facebook has already sparred with regulators. These companies worked hard to get a single set of rules for data protection and privacy across the region. After the UK leaves, the country will likely have to create its own set of privacy regulations, potentially driving up compliance costs associated with moving consumer information across borders and complicating the operation of data centers. That could influence consumer data collection used in advertising on Google's search engine and Facebook's social media pages, the shipment of a book ordered from a retailer on Amazon's site in Germany to a shopper in the UK, or the management of data centers that power Microsoft's cloud computing services. Take the EU's new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), a sweeping legal framework approved in April and set to take effect in May 2018. When the UK leaves, GDPR will no longer apply to the country. Experts expect the UK to adopt similar rules to GDPR in its stead, though a separate set of rules-no matter how similar-will cause headaches for US tech companies seeking simplicity as they operate across Europe. "They want one law, one framework, one consistent approach," said Eduardo Ustaran, a London-based lawyer at Hogan Lovells, which specialises in privacy law. "The lack of harmonisation makes more cost than regulation itself." Ustaran said he's been trying to calm business clients down since the vote. "There is very much a sense of panic or at least concern," he said. If the UK wants to take part in the free flow of data across European borders after leaving the EU, it will have to adopt data-protection standards that the EU deems "adequate" in meeting the same standards as GDPR. The UK Information Commissioner's Office, which oversees the country's data processing, said that "international consistency around data protection laws and rights is crucial, both to businesses and organisations, and to consumers and citizens." Unless the UK harmonises with the new EU rules, US companies will lose the ability to process European consumer data in the UK, said Jane Finlayson-Brown, a partner at the law firm Allen & Overy in London. This could impact companies that want to use data centers in the UK - even as backups if their data centres in other EU countries go down. Cloud-computing businesses, such as Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, are particularly vulnerable to the complications of a split regulatory region. Cloud companies function more efficiently when they can easily shift loads from one data center to another. Restricting the types of data that can be stored in specific locations hampers that flexibility. "A lot of companies are saying: 'help, we don't know what to do. We're completely dependent on free flow of data,'" said Todd Ruback, chief privacy officer at Ghostery, which helps companies navigate privacy laws. However, Brexit could be an opportunity for the UK to position itself as an alternative to the rest of Europe, especially since GDPR is "very complicated, with a ton of legalese," said Dana Simberkoff, chief compliance officer at compliance and governance software company AvePoint. If the UK adopts its own regulations that meet GDPR standards but make compliance simpler, the country "could have an amazing opportunity" to be more business-friendly. "What businesses want is clarity, and to a certain extent, that is not what the GDPR delivers," Simberkoff said. Brexit is less worrying, or the specific impact is so far unknown, when it comes to other Europe issues close to US technology companies' hearts, such as antitrust enforcement, a tax crackdown and the quest for engineering talent across the region. But one thing is clear: The UK has been more favourable to US technology interests. Without that influence, nations like France and Germany, which are less aligned with the US, are likely to take greater control of EU policy. "That will shift the balance of power more towards countries where the state plays a bigger role," said James Waterworth, European vice president for the CCIA, which lobbies for Amazon, Google, Facebook, Microsoft and other US tech companies. "That is not the ideal approach for fast-moving sectors like the high-technology and internet sectors." Google will be especially hard-hit, said Gary Reback, a Silicon Valley attorney who has represented Google rivals that have complained about the company to EU antitrust authorities. Google has invested heavily in UK operations and tried to build relationships with the government of out-going UK Prime Minister David Cameron to increase its political clout in the region, he noted. "Their ploy to control the European Union through influence in Britain has been wiped out," Reback said. Google declined to comment on the impact of Brexit, as did Facebook, Microsoft and Amazon. Google recently constructed a new London headquarters, in part because of the British capital's status as a hub for ambitious professionals from across Europe. When the UK leaves the free trade bloc, companies may lose the ability to move employees freely around the region without separate visas. "That would harm firms that need to move talent around if it came to pass," Waterworth said, while noting it's too early to tell how harmful this will be. For now, Google's biggest advertising clients continue to have a major presence in London, which supports the need for the search giant's presence there, said Andy McLoughlin, a partner at SoftTech VC in California, who is originally from Leicester, England. "The question mark is 15 to 20 years from now: Has London been unseated as the financial and startup center for Europe?" he said. (Bloomberg) The Hollywood star is in the country with her Snow Patrol musician beau as Courteney prepares to enter Bear Grylls newest show, Running Wild. Courteney Cox and Johnny McDaid have landed in Ireland. The Hollywood star is in the country with her Snow Patrol musician beau as Courteney prepares to enter Bear Grylls newest show, Running Wild. The 52-year-old Friends actress took to Twitter to share the news: In Ireland as my love @johnnymcdaid sends me off into the wilderness for the @beargrylls show. Its already raining! In Ireland as my love @johnnymcdaid sends me off into the wilderness for the @beargrylls show. It's already raining! pic.twitter.com/ghHds6XQcV Courteney Cox (@CourteneyCox) June 29, 2016 The brunette beauty shared a photo of the pair alongside the update, looking ever the happy couple since reuniting after ending their engagement last year. Courteney will star in the survival show alongside champion ski racer Lindsey Vonn for two days of gruelling tasks. It is raining and windy the adventure with @courteneycox is going to be a big one! wrote Co Down native Bear on Twitter, leaving no doubt that the challenges the stars endure will be intense. The Emerald Isle has been reported to be a potential venue for the couple as they prepare to walk down the aisle, with Ashford Castle in Co Mayo being named as a previous choice. Expand Close Actress Courteney Cox (L) and musician Johnny McDaid of Snow Patrol attend The 64th Annual BMI Pop Awards, honoring Taylor Swift and songwriting duo Mann & Weil, at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel on May 10, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for BMI) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Actress Courteney Cox (L) and musician Johnny McDaid of Snow Patrol attend The 64th Annual BMI Pop Awards, honoring Taylor Swift and songwriting duo Mann & Weil, at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel on May 10, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for BMI) Former Environment Minister Alan Kelly was told by the Attorney General's office that Ireland could no longer legally apply for an exemption from water charges. It is understood Mr Kelly was advised that it was not possible for Ireland to get rid of water charges due to strict European Union anti-pollution laws while he was still in office. The revelation comes as the Government prepares to suspend water charges tomorrow ahead of the establishment of an expert commission which will examine the future of Irish Water. The advice from the AG has remained secret until now and is likely to be disputed by Fianna Fail which demanded that water charges be suspended in return for facilitating a Fine Gael-led minority government. Last night Mr Kelly issued a statement, insisting there is "no legal basis whatsoever for scrapping water charges" as the Government prepared to pass legislation to suspend charges. "Personally, I believe there is a strong possibility that this bill is contrary to EU law, which has constitutional primacy over acts of the Oireachtas," he said. Mr Kelly also questioned whether Housing Minister Simon Coveney received legal advice before suspending charges. "Has he received the advice of the Attorney General that he can proceed this way? I was always advised that legally we had no choice but to have water charges as our derogation was gone since 2010 so how could this advice have changed?" A senior Government source said the legality of abolishing water charges will be addressed by the expert commission and an Oireachtas committee. Meanwhile, a former Scottish minister, an academic lawyer, an economist and a Dutch consultant are to sit on the expert commission being set up to take the heat out of the water charges debate. Former senator Joe O'Toole is to chair the eight-person panel which has been given a November deadline to deliver a report to a special Oireachtas committee. Speaking yesterday, Mr O'Toole said households will have to pay for their water whether through general taxation, domestic charges or a mix of the two. "There are a variety of approaches which can be looked at and we will tease them out one by one by one," he told RTE's 'Today with Sean O'Rourke'. Shane Ross has said it is essential to improve congestion in the capital and that reviving the Dart underground is now in his sights (Stock picture) The planned 3bn Dart underground project, which was controversially scrapped last year, is back on the table. The newly-appointed Transport Minister, Shane Ross, has said it is essential to improve congestion in the capital - and that reviving the Dart underground is now in his sights. The Dart underground tunnel was originally planned to link Heuston Station with Pearse Street and Docklands stations in the city centre with a station at St Stephen's Green. But in September, Mr Ross's predecessor, Paschal Donohoe, said a Dart expansion was instead being favoured. However, at the Oireachtas Transport Committee yesterday, Mr Ross said he wants to keep the Dart underground "alive". He added the timeframe for the completion of the Metro North should also be considered. "I take your point about public transport . . . that it will be necessary, particularly I suppose in Dublin where there is terrible congestion, it will be absolutely essential to improve the capital investment in public transport," he said. Responding to calls for the Dart underground to be re-examined, Mr Ross said this project has already gone through the design stage and should be closely considered for EU funding. Deep freeze "I mean, you will be aware, and are aware, about what happened there, you know, it was basically put in deep freeze in 2010," the Dublin-Rathdown TD said. "There is every intention of it being a project. It's been designed, and it's been kept alive and it will certainly be eligible, we hope, for EU funds in the future," he added. A Bank of Ireland employee was warned by an armed gang there would be blood on your hands if he did not co-operate during a 7.6m Tiger heist in Dublin, the High Court has been told. Shane Travers became distressed when telling a jury he feared for his own life, and the lives of his girlfriend, her mother and young nephew, after an armed and masked gang took them captive on the night of February 26/27, 2009. The incident changed his life and he was "devastated and disgusted" when, less than a year later, he read a newspaper article which, he said, insinuated he had something to do with a crime "of which I was a victim". He was giving evidence in his action alleging defamation in the January 31, 2010, Sunday World article. The Sunday World denies defamation. Mr Travers (31), Portmarnock, Co Dublin, told his counsel Jim O'Callaghan SC, during the night of February 26/27th 2009, the armed gang produced various Polaroid photos including of his young son, his parents' home and other BOI employees, and warned him to do as they ordered or there would be blood on your hands. They knew everything about us, he said. This happened at his then girlfriend Stephanie Smiths home in Kilteel, near Naas, and he was told by the gang next morning to drive to his work at the BOI cash centre at College Green and fill four laundry bags with money, he said. At the cash centre, he told his manager and other employees what was happening and showed them the photos. He was helped fill the bags with money and, under phone orders from the gang, drove with the cash to Clontarf Dart Station where a man approached him and drove away in his car. He was told the hostages were on the rail platform but, when they were not, ran to Clontarf garda station - where his father was a Garda - and told gardai what happened, he said. The hostages were later released unharmed, the court heard. Mr Travers said he had "absolutely nothing" to do with the gang or any criminals and was never charged with this or any other offence. He said he told gardai all he knew about the events and co-operated with their inquiries and the first and only time he was arrested arising from the heist was on January 28, 2010 when he was arrested under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act. He was offered a solicitor but did not seek one because he had "nothing to hide". He was released without charge after 48 hours on January 30. He was "disgusted and devastated" when he read the Sunday World article headlined "7.6m Tiger raid 'was nothing to do with me'", with another headline: "But Gardai are still convinced kidnap gang had inside info on bank stash." Asked about photos of him beside a Ferrari and Bentley in Spain which accompanied the article, he said those seemed to have come from his girlfriend's Facebook page and were taken while the couple were on holiday in Spain in 2008. They took a day trip to Puerto Banus where he had his photo taken beside the cars. He did not own them but liked such cars. He felt the article was trying to link him to criminals on the Costa Del Sol and represent him as "over there living a high life" and "insinuating I'm living off the proceeds of a crime I was a victim of". He was "sick to my stomach" about being mentioned in an article which said a number of well-known criminals including Gary Hutch were quizzed over the Tiger raid. There was no effort to contact him before publication and the article was "lazy", "amateurish", "insensitive" and had no regard for him or others. While the article stated he had been suspended by Bank of Ireland, he never was, he added. He was still an employee but had been unable to return to work. He was attending weekly counselling sessions, remained fearful, unable to sleep and reclusive. The case continues before Mr Justice Colm MacEochaidh and a jury. A trial date has been set in the case against two sons of the late billionaire hotel boss Jim Mansfield who are accused of possession of ammunition at their homes. Jim Mansfield Jr (48) and Patrick James (PJ) Mansfield (38) are both pleading not guilty to the charges against them. Judge Marie Keane adjourned their cases to November 21 for hearing at Dublin District Court. She also ordered disclosure by the prosecution of additional garda statements within 21 days. Jim Mansfield Jr is charged with having 180 rounds of .22 Walther ammunition without a firearms licence at his home at Tassaggart House in Saggart on January 29, 2015. Two further charges of possession of a Fabarm pump-action shotgun and 19 rounds of 12" gauge shotgun cartridges with a certificate were previously struck out. His brother PJ Mansfield is accused of possession of 1,252 rounds of Walther ammunition without a firearms licence at his former home at Coldwater Lakes in Saggart. The accused are sons of Jim Mansfield Snr, who passed away in January 2014. He was the businessman behind the popular Citywest Hotel and Weston Airport as well as a number of other high-profile ventures. Several of these other businesses collapsed during the recession. Yesterday, defence barrister Tony McGillicuddy said the trial before the non-jury district court would take up to two days. He asked the judge to set a date for mention of the case to confirm it was going ahead "and deal with any ancillary matters that may arise". He said it appeared there were further garda statements. Judge Keane adjourned the cases to November 21 for hearing. She set a mention date of October 7 and excused the defendants from attending on that date. When they appeared before Blanchardstown District Court last week, it was alleged that during a search of PJ Mansfield's home, gardai found a licensed Walther pistol and 1,552 rounds of ammunition, which was 1,252 more than the 300 rounds that he was licensed to hold. In relation to Jim Mansfield, Detective Garda Ian Pemberton alleged that gardai searched Mr Mansfield's home under warrant and located a legally-held Walther pistol as well as 480 rounds of ammunition, which was 180 rounds of ammunition in excess of the licence. A Dutch criminal caught with a fake identity card in a luxury Dublin apartment during a Garda operation targeting the Kinahan gang has been given a one-month jail sentence. Naoufal Fassih (35), who is of Moroccan origin, pleaded guilty to having a false instrument a forged Belgian ID card and possessing cannabis worth 40 when he was found in an apartment on Lower Baggott St on April 7 last. He had already spent two and half months in custody on remand prior to his sentence hearing at Cloverhill District Court on Thursday. Fassih, once described in court as a man of means, was wearing 800 runners and allegedly had three designer watches worth more than 80,000 when arrested. He has 12 prior criminal convictions for serious offences in the Netherlands dating back to 1998. Garda Eoin Kane, of Kevin Street station's Drugs Unit, told Judge John Lindsay that courts in Amsterdam had previously given Fassih jail terms. In 2014, he was sentenced to 20 months, in 2002 he got a three and a half year sentence and in 2000 a two year prison term. His earlier crimes included: two counts of unauthorised use of weapons, ammunition and explosives as well as extortion and attempted extortion and embezzlement, assault, openly joining forces to commit violence against other people and drugs offences. However he had no prior convictions in Ireland. Fassih is also awaiting extradition to the Netherlands on other charges. Gda Kane told the court that a warrant was obtained under the Misuse of Drugs Act to search the apartment. Fassih told gardai his name was Omar Ghazouani and he had Belgian ID card with that name and it had his photo. Gardai also discovered a passport in another name and cannabis in the form of herb, resin and oil worth 40. He continued to maintain his name was Omar Ghazouani when he was detained for questioning at Kevin Street Garda station and during a subsequent court hearing when he was applying for bail. However, gardai established his real identify through the assistance of Interpol and Fassih was refused bail on April 15. Gda Kane agreed with defence counsel John Byrne (instructed by solicitor Barry O'Donoghue) that the search was a result of receiving confidential information which did not relate to Fassih. He also agreed with counsel that they did not expect to find him there. Mr Byrne said his client's explanation for being in Ireland was that he was here for a girlfriend. Mr Byrne said the name on the ID card and the passport did not match up and the offence was amateurish. Judge Lindsay said all crimes are amateurish, when they're caught. Fassih sat silently throughout the hearing. His counsel said he would be resisting attempts to extradite him to the Netherlands where he faces charges for three relatively minor offences. He left school at 18 and worked in construction and his last sentence in 2013, which was a four-month prison term, was relatively modest, counsel said. The maximum sentence for the forged document charge was 12 months, the court heard. Judge Lindsay noted he has been in custody on remand since mid-April and he imposed a one-month jail term for that offence. He gave the accused the benefit of the Probation Act for the drugs charge. Fassih was initially refused bail on April 15 by Judge Cormac Dunne at Dublin District Court after the prosecution successfully argued that he was a fight risk. Gardai had said in evidence that he had 800 runners and three designer watches in total worth 83,000 when arrested at the apartment on Lower Baggott Street. Garda Kane had also said that the man was arrested during an operation targeting members of the Kinahan organised crime gang. Gda Kane also said that during the search of the apartment also found there were: 300, Stg 12,825, a Rolex watch worth 8,350, another Rolex watch valued at 35,000 and an Audamars Piguet Royal Oak limited edition Michael Schumacher watch valued 40,000. Mr Fassih also failed in a High Court action to get released on bail. A man serving 15 years for the rape and sexual assault of a woman whose child he abducted in the same incident may face an "undue leniency" appeal by prosecutors before his appeal against conviction. Michael Murray (44), formerly of Killiney Oaks, Killiney, Co Dublin, was jailed at the Central Criminal Court in 2013 for 15 years for rape, attempted rape, oral rape and aggravated sexual assault, child abduction, threats to kill or cause serious harm, false imprisonment and theft. The jury was told that Murray lured his female victim into an apartment by telling her that an elderly woman was dying inside and needed her help. He tied her up and assaulted her before taking her son away, abandoning him in a city centre square late at night. He returned to the flat where he drugged and raped his victim. The offences all occurred on February 12 and 13, 2010, in a Dublin apartment. Murray denied the charges. However, he was found guilty on all counts by a unanimous jury decision. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is seeking a review of Murray's sentence on the grounds that it was "unduly lenient". Murray is also due to appeal his conviction. In the Court of Appeal yesterday, Barrister Colman Fitzgerald SC, said he understood Murray had directly communicated with the court, saying he wanted to "dispense with our services". Mr Justice George Birmingham said the President of the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Sean Ryan, had earlier indicated some "impatience" and that, if necessary, the DPP's undue leniency application would have to proceed first. Where there were "cross appeals", Mr Justice Birmingham said it was normal practice to hear conviction appeals first, but the court had departed from that before where it appeared there was no enthusiasm on the part of the appellant to get his conviction appeal on. Leniency In that case, the DPP was concerned that, by the time its appeal would be heard, the sentence would have been served in full or in part. Mr Justice Birmingham adjourned Murray's appeal, which was due to be heard next week. Proceeding with the DPP's undue leniency appeal was "one option", he said, and he put the matter in for case management on Friday week. Mr Fitzgerald said he would communicate to Murray that he was "at risk of having the normal order reversed". In March, Murray lost an appeal taken against the State after it emerged his solicitors' calls were recorded in prison. Earlier this month a judge in Kerry struck out nine delayed drink-driving cases which were at least 18 months old Stock Picture A Romanian man challenging his drink-driving prosecution as he was not supplied with a reading in Irish is seeking to appeal his case to the Supreme Court. The move has implications for up to 1,400 drink-driving cases around the country, which have effectively been on hold since last autumn. Mihai Avadenei, with an address in Swords, Co Dublin, successfully argued in High Court proceedings that the statement produced following his intoxilyser test was not valid because it was in English only, rather than in both English and Irish. Mr Justice Seamus Noonan found that the failure to produce the Irish half of the prescribed form meant it was not evidence and could not be admitted. His ruling was quashed by the Court of Appeal in May. However, the Irish Independent has learned Mr Avadenei has now sought leave to appeal to the Supreme Court. The move is likely to trigger a raft of further adjournments or the striking out of cases on account of delay. Individual district court judges will have discretion on how to deal with the matter. Earlier this month a judge in Kerry struck out nine delayed drink-driving cases which were at least 18 months old. A number of solicitors sought adjournments to 100 affected cases in the county amid speculation at the time that a Supreme Court challenge was imminent. Mr Avadenei was stopped by gardai in the early hours of April 21, 2014, driving at 80kmh in a 50kmh zone and breathalysed at Store Street Garda Station. The intoxilyser apparatus printed out the results in an English form only. Should an appeal be granted, the Director of Public Prosecutions will be hoping the Supreme Court concurs with the finding of the Court of Appeal. There Mr Justice John Edwards found the Irish part of the reading, even if it had been included, would not have added anything of substance to the document and its omission could not have operated to mislead as to the contents of the document. Elga Hick mother of Ana Hick leaves the inquest into the death of Ana Hick at the Coroners Court, Dublin. Photo: Gareth Chaney Collins The mother of a teenage girl who died after taking a lethal dose of ecstasy at a Dublin nightclub has urged young people to be aware and value their lives. Ana Hick was 18 when she collapsed outside the Twisted Pepper nightclub on Dublins Middle Abbey Street on May 16 2015. Emergency services performed CPR at the scene amid efforts to save her life and she was rushed to the Mater Hospital and placed in intensive care unit. Her condition deteriorated and she was pronounced dead surrounded by family around 5pm the following day, May 17. Ana, from Northcote Terrace in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, had been out celebrating the end of her first year in college with friends when she collapsed. She was described as fun-loving, determined and ambitious in tributes from friends following her death. She was due to celebrate her 19th birthday two days after her death. Expand Close Ana Hick / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Ana Hick At the inquest into her death today Dr Niall Mulligan, who carried out the post mortem on Anas body, found that she had consumed a lethal dose of MDMA, more commonly known as ecstasy, and had suffered multi-organ failure as a result. A verdict of death by misadventure was recorded by the coroner Dr Myra Cullinane. Following the verdict Anas mother Elga Hick first thanked the Gardai and the office of the Coroner for all their hard work, time and efforts in compiling the facts for the inquest. "I'd like to thank all who attended for showing such bravery in reliving the most painful and tragic events of last May, for standing up to have their witness statements read, she said. Theses efforts will establish the facts, and the facts will spread awareness for the greater good, she added. Finishing her statement, Elga said:Just a message to all young children out there. You are special. There is only one of you in the world. You cannot be replaced. Value your life higher. Be aware." Ministers Shane Ross, pictured, and Finian McGrath who both voted in favour of an identical bill tabled by Clare Daly during the last Dail term requested that no whip be applied Photo: Tom Burke On Tuesday morning, members of the Independent Alliance arrived at Government Buildings ready for a fight. The colourful Dail grouping, which is still coming to terms with life inside the Government tent, sought the opportunity to vote freely on the issue of abortion. The bill in question will be debated today and permits terminations in cases where a perinatologist and obstetrician deem the pregnancy to be non-viable. In other words, the legislation aims to prevent any more of our women from being forced to go through with their pregnancies in cases of fatal foetal abnormality. It aspires to bring an end to the days whereby our women - having been told their baby will die outside of the womb - are still forced to go through the trauma of travelling to other European cities to access termination services. Not for the first time, a bill has been tabled that aims to address what many feel is the greatest social injustice under Irish law. But the major problem with Mick Wallace's bill is that it is unconstitutional, according to our Attorney General Maire Whelan. Of course we have to take the word of the Cabinet in relation to Ms Whelan's legal advice. That's because it is kept secret and out of reach of all but a tiny handful of people. Back inside Government Buildings and a stand-off had ensued. Ministers Shane Ross and Finian McGrath - who both voted in favour of an identical bill tabled by Clare Daly during the last Dail term - requested that no whip be applied. They wanted the opportunity to, once again, vote by their consciences. It should be stressed that Mr McGrath and Mr Ross were also representing the views of their colleague, junior minister John Halligan. The Waterford TD had consulted his supporters over the course of the weekend and felt he was not prepared to vote against a bill that gives women in the most traumatic of cases "a choice". The other two members of the alliance - Sean Canney and Kevin 'Boxer' Moran - say they will vote against the bill because they are inherently pro-life. Nonetheless, both TDs support the notion that a free vote should be extended. Taoiseach Enda Kenny, however, was not for budging. He told the alliance that it had signed up to the Programme for Government, which sets out a roadmap for the issue of the Eighth Amendment to be examined by a Citizen's Convention. Mr Kenny stated that one cannot allow a situation whereby members of Cabinet would choose to ignore the advice of the most senior lawyer of the State. It was also pointed out that it would be unthinkable for some senior ministers to contradict, through their Dail votes, the adviser of the Government in matters of law and legal opinion. The meeting, which sources say was tense, was adjourned without agreement, allowing Mr Kenny to travel to Brussels for the crunch European Council meeting about Brexit. A number of his trusted ministers, such as Simon Harris and Frances Fitzgerald, continued to discuss the matter with the alliance. And so, a compromise is likely to be found before Mr Wallace's bill is voted upon next week. Sources say Mr Halligan may be allowed to abstain as he does not sit at Cabinet. Mr Ross and Mr McGrath will be expected to adhere to what is known as collective Cabinet responsibility. But what will prove most worrying for Mr Kenny is that the events of recent days have created fresh doubt, in the minds of alliance members, about their futures in this Government. That, of course, will come as little comfort to the many women and their families whose harrowing stories will today be shared on the floor of Dail Eireann. A retired senior garda who targeted John Gilligan has described the veteran criminals involved in Dublin's gangland feud as gamblers who don't know when to quit. In an interview for 'The Paul Williams Podcast' former Assistant Commissioner Tony Hickey, who led the investigation into the murder of Sunday Independent journalist Veronica Guerin, described the Regency Hotel murder as a "daft operation". When asked if he ever thought Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch and Christy Kinahan would be involved in crime at this stage of their lives, Mr Hickey said: "I suppose you can equate them to gamblers. If you're a good gambler, you know when to hold them and you know when to fold them, but these people don't seem to be able to. Criminals "Maybe the same applies to businessmen as to criminals. You think at a certain stage they say to themselves 'I have enough money', but is it ever enough for them?" The decorated officer asked if the gangland violence in Dublin could go the same way as narco-terrorism in South American countries. "I was at a seminar in the States a number of years ago with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the FBI. "They talked about how the Mafia would go into a bar and shoot a man in the head and leave. But then Colombians arrived to Florida to distribute cocaine. They would go into a bar and shoot up the entire place. "That's the difference and maybe that's the direction we're heading. I don't know." The retired assistant commissioner also discussed the dynamics of an organised crime outfit, and how internal paranoia can often lead to its downfall. "There is so much paranoia involved, there is no honour among thieves and the gangs don't trust each other deep down. "They have to stay close to the action to make sure they don't get ripped off." "The Regency Hotel murder, on the face of it, was a daft operation. Some people would say it was well planned but badly executed. But [there was] crass disregard for life and for innocent people." He also discussed the role gardai have in tackling crime, saying prisons are full because "gardai are doing what they're suppose to do". "Gardai will do what they have always done, they will react to whatever is happening and I have no doubt they are working on cases," he said. "The prisons are full, not because people are handing themselves in but because they were convicted. "I always think about criminals, and how they talk. I can say without fear of contradiction that anyone who commits a crime and continues to commit crimes will be arrested, charged and processed." Awful The retired officer also weighed in on the perception some people have that prisons are a comfortable place for convicts, saying: "People say prisons are like hotels, they're not. Prisons are awful places. I've been in every prison around the country for various reasons. You're an adult being told what to do, and locked up in a cell in the most appalling way. "Anyone who has any intelligence would never want to go back to prison, but they get on a carousel and that's their lifestyle unfortunately." Mr Hickey also discussed the investigation into the murder of heroic journalist Veronica Guerin. "It's hard to believe it was 20 years ago. We also remember Bernie Guerin (Veronica's late mother), the distress she suffered - the same as many other victims - was absolutely horrendous." The investigation into Veronica's murder, which was ordered by Gilligan, signalled huge change in Ireland. Gilligan was subsequently jailed for 20 years for drugs importation. "Gardai can be reactive rather than proactive and I suppose that's what happened in that case - again even before Veronica was shot there was a tremendous amount of intelligence on Gilligan and his various associates," Mr Hickey said. "We worked in conjunction with the DPP at the time and the idea applies to the Regency Hotel, you can get people on board and get the small fish to catch the bigger fish." It is just one of a number of items on display, but the use of such extreme language that can be easily seen by youngsters on a busy thoroughfare has provoked anger Fury has erupted after it emerged that a city centre retailer is openly displaying clothing which features the F-word in large letters. Kopyright, a custom T-shirt shop located next door to St George's Church on High Street in Belfast, has showcased one of its garments with the slogan 'Go F*** Your #Selfie' in its window. It is just one of a number of items on display, but the use of such extreme language that can be easily seen by youngsters on a busy thoroughfare has provoked anger. Belfast High Sheriff Jim Rodgers has called for a crackdown on the sale of this sort of merchandise and he said he would be raising the issue with Trading Standards officials. "It's totally disgraceful and I would appeal to the owners to remove it immediately," he said. "It's offensive and it's not something that we want to see in any shop window in Belfast or Northern Ireland, let alone one that sits next door to a church. I have never ever witnessed anything like it in my life and I cannot understand how anybody could even think of putting that in a window." Expand Close Calls to remove 'offensive' t-shirt from window / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Calls to remove 'offensive' t-shirt from window In response to the Belfast Telegraph, shop owner Stephen Seenan said he was "really surprised" by the complaint. "The T-shirt you are referring to has a joking/ironic slogan which customers see on the funny side and has been ordered several times," he said. "It is not meant to cause any offence and up to now no one has ever contacted us to express any concern about it." The top, which is the handiwork of Kopyright, a T-Shirt printing and embroidery specialist whose motto is "making it personal", has been in the window that overlooks Church Lane for weeks. Expand Close It is just one of a number of items on display, but the use of such extreme language that can be easily seen by youngsters on a busy thoroughfare has provoked anger / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp It is just one of a number of items on display, but the use of such extreme language that can be easily seen by youngsters on a busy thoroughfare has provoked anger Mr Rodgers said that had such words appeared in graffiti on a city wall, it would have been painted over immediately. "It's completely out of order and if they think it's acceptable I most certainly don't," the UUP man said. "Many of my fellow councillors simply couldn't believe that this is happening and none of us can recall anything like this happening anywhere - not just here, but further afield. "The problem is that it's inside a shop and not on the outside, but it's not acceptable in this society that we live in." Mr Rodgers, a two-time Lord Mayor of Belfast, said it was a "particularly alarming" message to be sending out to young children. He added: "We will not tolerate the sale of merchandise like these T-shirts on the streets of Belfast. They have no place in a city like ours - or anywhere else in Northern Ireland for that matter. I will be speaking to Trading Standards to stop the sale of these unpleasant tops." Mother-of-two Patricia Latham (39), an account manager from Kells, said she found it "wholly immoral for a business to promote such sentiments". "I understand that the retailer is into quirky T-shirts with eye-catching slogans but this is not something I want my kids to see in a shop window," she said. Cancer survivor Nikki Bradley breaks the world record for the fastest woman to complete a 5k while on crutches (Photo: Gotspe) Cancer survivor Nikki Bradley breaks the world record for the fastest woman to complete a 5k while on crutches (Photo: Gotspe) A cancer survivor has broken the world record for the fastest woman to complete a 5k while on crutches. Nikki Bradley from Donegal was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma in 2003 and radiation and chemotherapy destroyed her right hip, leaving her on crutches. Nikkis illness has motivated her to challenge herself and she broke the world record for a 5k on crutches by 5 minutes on a track in Holland last Saturday. The previous time for the record was 49:53 minutes and Nikki broke it in 44:21 minutes. Im trying to make something like this positive and fun. Im in a situation most people would see as unfortunate, but I wanted to find a way to celebrate being on crutches, said Nikki. Nikki spotted the 5k challenge online and was curious about the previous record. Expand Close Cancer survivor Nikki Bradley breaks the world record for the fastest woman to complete a 5k while on crutches (Photo: Gotspe) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Cancer survivor Nikki Bradley breaks the world record for the fastest woman to complete a 5k while on crutches (Photo: Gotspe) I was inspired by Michael Robbert Brans who had the same surgery that Im facing to have my leg amputated and was astonished that he was doing the same challenge. We quickly joined forces to attempt the record together, she said. Nikki completed three weeks of concentrated training before heading to Holland to complete the 5k. She said her biggest challenge was keeping her right leg off the ground at all times as the rules were clear if Nikkis right foot touched the ground at any point, she would be immediately disqualified. It was very difficult. I had to film it to prove I had beaten the record so I asked the camera man coming behind me to shout at me to keep my leg up. It was very challenging but it gave me extra satisfaction when I crossed the finish line, she said. I didnt tell people before I left that in training I only managed to complete six out of the 12 laps so on Saturday I doubled my limit at training. It was extremely exhausting but I was delighted. Nikki who has been cancer free since 2003 has completed many challenges despite her crutches. She climbed Mount Errigal in January in the deep snow and trekked across an Icelandic glacier in February. Her biggest challenge was abseiling the Fanad lighthouse, which she said was extremely difficult to do with only one leg. It was a real eye-opener. It was something I didnt think that I could do but I realised that nothing is impossible. When I complete challenges I appreciate where Ive come and what Ive come through. Nikki has to wait to get her record recognised by Guinness Book of World Records as theres a lot of paperwork and witness statements to complete. Im confident Ive broken the record but well just have to wait and see. Members of the LGBT community are invited to share Ramadan celebrations with the Muslim community on Saturday. The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council said they are inviting the LGBT community to share in their blessings of Ramadan which focuses on abstinence and sharing. Ramadan inspired and motivated us to reach out. People think that Muslims cant reach out to the LGBT community, but thats wrong. We can open our hearts and doors to anyone, said a spokesperson for the Islamic council. Ramadan is the annual month during which Muslims abstain from food, drink and sex between dawn and sunset. The LGBT community are invited to share in the Iftar, a meal that ends Ramadan, in the Al-Mustafa Islamic Centre at Blanchardstown on Saturday. Last year we extended the invitation to the Jewish community and this year we thought it would be nice to extend the invitation to the LGBT community because they have been marginalised and suffered as a result of the Orlando shooting. The Irish Muslim community shows what Islam is really all about, by inviting members of the LGBT community to... https://t.co/hbCOJlHDzV YIC Letterkenny (@yicletterkenny) June 29, 2016 As more than one billion Muslims worldwide celebrate Ramadan by fasting and appreciating the blessings given to us, it is important for the Irish Muslim community to reach out to our neighbours as an example of true Islamic ideals. The president of the Irish Association Of Suicidology (IAS) has said that Paul Kelly should never have been allowed to head up Console. Former Limerick TD and current head of the IAS Dan Neville said that while he was disappointed in the Console revelations, he was not surprised given the ongoing concerns about the suicide charity's founder. "We had some concerns about [Mr Kelly] four years ago, though not in regard to the operating of Console, but we didn't have much evidence... and with the HSE prepared to substantially front him, I suppose we took some comfort in that and assumed its systems would ensure, given that level of funding involved, that every cent would be properly accounted for," he told the Irish Independent. He continued: "Given these concerns, and his well documented past, I always felt that something [like this] might happen with Kelly in charge." Regulation Mr Neville rounded on Mr Kelly, who, alongside his wife Patricia and their son Tim, is accused of running up credit card bills of almost 500,000 between 2012 and 2014. He also said there was a lack of oversight in the suicide charity sector, where there are hundreds of groups operating. "What can you say about it, there's no regulation. They're needed because we've 200 or so groups working across Ireland in the area of suicide bereavement and prevention." President Michael D Higgins, who is patron of Console, refused to comment on the controversy which has engulfed the charity. His spokesman said: "I understand there is an investigation ongoing and we have no comment other than to say the President has no connection - good, bad or indifferent - with the administration or governance of any organisation of which he is a patron." Meanwhile Console therapist Marie McDonagh said that many staff at the charity were forced to go months between payments. The Galway counsellor said she was "astounded and gutted" by the revelations about the spending of charity funds. "The public know more about what is going on with the charity than its own staff," she told the Irish Independent. "We're just stressed to the hilt but I feel that we owe it to our clients to let them know what's been going on. I once tried to speak to Paul about the late payments. We were at a conference and I approached him. "His wife cut across me and stopped me speaking to him. I told her about the payment problems and she said take it up with Paul. And I asked her to get him to phone me, but I never heard a word back." Ms McDonagh said the payment due for Christmas did not arrive until Good Friday. "Even then it went to the other therapist in Galway. I didn't even bother to call them because it was always the same. You'll get paid eventually we were always told," she said. "I'm a single mother so my money is tight... Try explaining to your bank manager that you can't afford your mortgage payment this month because your work wouldn't pay you." Despite the ongoing issues with payment, Ms McDonagh said she would continue to see her clients regardless of what happens in Console, a sentiment she said many therapists share. "As a therapist, I'm not going to let the clients down. Even if Console closes I will continue the work that I started with any of my clients and charge them whatever they give Console." After she helped expose Paul Kelly 26 years ago, MEP Mairead McGuinness says she can not believe the disgraced Console director was allowed to take advantage of another charity. In 1989, Mr Kelly founded Christian Development Services; a group which helped provide low cost counselling sessions to those unable to afford private care - much like his suicide prevention charity Console, founded 13 years later. The organisation folded after serious financial irregulars lead to Mr Kelly being forced from the position of CEO by staff outraged at his behaviour. It would soon emerge that under his stewardship the charity had failed to pay any tax or PRSI and owed the Revenue some IR100,000 despite collecting, on average, IR3,000 weekly from its various counselling centres. Expand Close MEP Mairead McGuinness worked on a programme in 1990 which exposed Mr Kellys dealings Picture: Tom Burke / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp MEP Mairead McGuinness worked on a programme in 1990 which exposed Mr Kellys dealings Picture: Tom Burke It is extraordinary that a programme RTE did in 1990 on an individual could so closely mirror events in 2016, almost three decades on, Ms McGuinness said. I guess some leopards really dont change their spots. Mr Kelly, alongside his wife Patricia and their son Tim, is accused of running up credit card bills of almost 500,000 between 2012 and 2014 while CEO of Console. A HSE audit also details how the trio, and other Kelly family members, benefited by almost 500,000 in salaries and cars during the same period. These allegations came to light following an expose by RTEs Prime Time Investigation Team last week. Working as a reporter in the 1980s, Ms McGuinness told the Irish Independent of her involved in the RTE One consumer watchdog programme Look Here which ran a special about Mr Kelly and his running of Christian Development Services. Last Thursday I remember sitting down to watch Primetime and as the show went on, thinking this guy rings a bell, she said. Slowly it started to click and then I realised it was the same Paul Kelly wed worked so hard to expose back in the earlier 90s. He took in an awful lot of money at the time and was never able to explain what happened with it. Asked if she was surprised by the ongoing Console scandal, Ms McGuinness added: Clearly he wasnt too put off by the programme despite running away to Australia after it aired. Contacted by the Irish Independent about the alleged IR100,000 owed to Revenue, a Commission spokesperson declined to comment, saying that they were prevented by law from doing so. Fianna Fail TD Sean Fleming told the Irish Independent last night that the PAC will meet with the HSE next week Photo: Getty Images THE chairman of the Dail's high-powered Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has called an emergency meeting with the Health Service Executive (HSE) as the fallout from the Console charity scandal continues. Fianna Fail TD Sean Fleming told the Irish Independent last night that the PAC will meet with the HSE next week in light of the "significant damage" caused by the revelations surrounding spending at the suicide bereavement charity. The issue of lavish spending of charity funds was raised for a second consecutive day in the Dail yesterday. Mr Fleming is also seeking the Service Level Agreements between the HSE and Console. "I am calling the HSE into a meeting with the PAC in early July," the Laois TD told this newspaper. "What I would emphasise, however, is that it is important the good work of Console must continue. "The damage done by the latest revelations must also be brought to a quick conclusion." PAC member Noel Rock followed his Fine Gael party colleague Alan Farrell in calling for a full investigation. The Dail has held a highly charged debate on abortion, which saw a number of TDs break down in tears. During a highly charged debate last night, junior minister John Halligan said he doesnt know and doesnt care if a bill on fatal foetal abnormalities is unconstitutional, as deemed by the Attorney General Maire Whelan. The bill, tabled by Wexford TD Mick Wallace, proposes that women should be allowed to have a termination, where both a perinatologist and an obstetrician deem the pregnancy to be non-viable. If Mr Halligan votes with the bill and against the Government, his position as minister could be thrown into doubt. I care about the women tomorrow, next week, the week after that who will have to get on a plane or a ship and go to Liverpool, or Newcastle or Manchester, and bring the foetus back in the box in the back of a car, which has happened. This is Ireland 2016, not Ireland 1920, an emotional Mr Halligan said. Expand Close Kate O'Connell. Photo: Tom Burke / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Kate O'Connell. Photo: Tom Burke Read More During the debate, Dublin Bay South TD Kate OConnell broke down in tears as she told the Dail of how she and her husband were told their son had a profound defect during the scan. During a powerful speech, Ms OConnell said she delivered a child that had almost the entirety of his organs outside his body, who is miraculously alive today, aged five. Today, as we sit here, people are receiving a diagnosis that tells them to prepare for a death, and not a birth - and that their misery cannot be relieved in their own country, she said, adding that legislators must realise the law surrounding abortion has to change. The Cabinet is expected to discuss the bill on Tuesday, before the vote on Thursday. But Taoiseach Enda Kenny has insisted ministers must adhere to collective Cabinet responsibility and the Programme for Government they signed up for, which paves the way for a Citizens Assembly. There was no formal contact with made between Mr Kenny and the alliance yesterday. Speaking during the Dail on his private member's bill, Mr Wallace pointed out that the AGs advice has not been made public and that the bill should be tested in the courts. People are entitled to their belief but I dont think they are entitled to shove their belief down the mouths of others especially when it mounts to a breach of their human rights. Health Minister Simon Harris said he has been informed by the Chief Medical Officer that if a foetus has the capacity to be born, it has the protection of the constitution. It can never be said that a foetus with a fatal foetal abnormality will not be born to live for a short time, even if that is only to be minutes, to draw a breath and to have a detectable heartbeat, the Wicklow TD said. He told the debate the bill would not be constitutional and would also not be medically practicable. Therefore, to introduce the provisions as Deputy Wallace may intend them, a referendum would be required to amend the Constitution, Mr Harris said. It is for this reason that I believe that the Governments commitment to develop a consensus approach within a Citizens Assembly is the way to move forward. Mr Harris also apologised to Amanda Mellet, who took her case to the UN, which found she was subjected to cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment in being obliged to choose between carrying her foetus to term or travelling abroad for a termination. Chief Whip Regina Doherty described the current situation facing women as intolerable, adding she wants to see a referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment. She expressed deep sympathy for couples who suffer the most humiliating experience of bringing back their baby in the boot of their car, in a box, to bring the child home to be waked, to be told they couldnt be baptised because they were dead. But Ms Doherty described the arguments of the Attorney General as compelling and said she supports the process of the Citizens Assembly. Even if I didnt want to believe her, the arguments are so compelling and would cause me that even if we did pass the bill we would spend years fighting in the courts of this land and it wouldnt change a single thing for the women of Ireland who find themselves in this situation. Labour Party deputy leader Alan Kelly said his party wants to see a referendum but that the party is realistic in terms of the bill being unconstitutional. Fianna Fail TD Niall Collins said he is not in favour of a regime of abortion on demand, but that he will be supporting the bill. As a free vote has been offered by Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, most of the partys TDs are expected to oppose the bill. Proposing the bill, Independent TD Clare Daly called on the Government to pass the bill, thus allowing the President to refer it to the Supreme Court. Ms Daly cited the Master of the Rotunda who said there were 71 cases of fatal foetal abnormality diagnosis last year. 49 of those couples decided to travel, thats almost one per week, she added. In total, Ms Daly said the Governments failure to act meant more than 200 women, their partners and families endured physical and mental suffering. An eye-witness revealed she saw a savage attack by a group of teenagers that left a tourist bleeding from his mouth in the city centre. The eye-witness told Independent.ie that a huge group of teenage boys on bikes starting shouting and attacking four tourists on Grafton Street last night at around 11pm. It was a savage attack. There was a huge group of young teenagers who were shouting and then they sped off on their bikes," the eye-witness said. There were four foreigners, two boys and two girls and one was bleeding from his mouth as the girls watched in hysterics. His backpack was torn and it looked as though he had fought off the teenagers from robbing him and was hit." The eye-witness said that other tourists were looking on in shock and that two Irish men stopped to help the tourists. Everyone was really shaken-up. I felt so bad for the tourists. Gardai were called to the scene. Figures compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that sexual offences increased to 2,301 (Stock picture) Sex attacks, homicide offences and assaults have increased nationwide over the last 12 months but the rate of burglaries has dropped by almost 20pc. Figures compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that sexual offences increased to 2,301. This marks an 8pc rise when comparing the 12-month period ending in March 2016 to the same period a year ago. Attempts or threats to murder, assaults, harassments and related offences rose by more than 6pc, while homicide offences such as murder and manslaughter grew by 1.6pc. Three fatal shootings carried out as part of the ongoing Hutch /Kinahan feud in February and March can be attributed to the slight rise in homicide offences. The deadly gang war has so far claimed seven lives, one in Spain and six in Dublin, with four of those murders occurring in February and March this year. Other murders that are included in the homicide statistic include that of Darren Kearns (33), who was shot dead outside Cummiskey's pub in Cabra in December of last year. The convicted drug-dealer, who was only released from a lengthy jail sentence in the months prior to his death, was leaving a restaurant at the premises when he was targeted. Another horrific killing during this period was that of Det Gda Tony Golden, who was shot dead as he attended a domestic abuse incident in the Omeath area of Dundalk. Killer His killer, Adrian Crevin Mackin, took his own life shortly afterwards. Also included in the homicide statistics is the tragic killing of Venessa Siatka. The 23-month-old died after being struck by a vehicle in the Phoenix Park on April 6 of last year. Ciaran Lane (24) pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing the toddler's death and was sentenced to five years of imprisonment. Crimes involving burglary and theft significantly decreased over the 12-month period. They show a drop of more than 5,000 incidents in burglary and related offences. A 5m budget was set aside to fund An Garda Siochana's anti-burglary units nationally and locally. Divisional Burglary Response Units have also been resourced to target serial burglars. The figures provided are annualised for a given quarter and is the total number of crimes recorded in the 12 months prior to end of March. There were 11,406 offences against Government, justice procedures and organisation of crime recorded for the year to March, an increase of 14.5pc year on year. This was heavily driven by a 16pc increase in offences while in custody and breach of court orders, which rose from 9,581 to 11,110. The annualised total for kidnapping and related offences rose by 13 to 144 during the period. False imprisonment offences increased dramatically, by 44pc. A cabinet minister has expressed no confidence in the Government's plan for securing the release of Ibrahim Halawa. Children's Minister Katherine Zappone called for an urgent reassessment of the strategy adopted by Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan. Her comments came as the 20-year-old Dubliner's trial was adjourned by an Egyptian court for the 14th time in three years. Mr Flanagan has resisted calls for Ireland to seek a presidential pardon for Mr Halawa, who faces an attempted murder charge and a potential death penalty after being arrested in Cairo during protests against the ousting of former Egyptian leader Mohamed Morsi. The minister has advocated a "firm and measured diplomatic approach" and claims it would be unrealistic to expect Mr Halawa to be released before the judicial process ends. However, his strategy has now been openly questioned by Independent Cabinet minister Zappone, in whose constituency the Halawa family live. "I firmly believe that securing Ibrahim's freedom must be the priority and I am asking my Government colleagues to carry out an urgent review of the current strategy which to date has failed to secure that goal," she said in a statement. "I share the very real concerns of the Halawa family and their supporters, as well as human rights organisations about Ibrahim's mental and physical well-being." It was unclear last night whether her comments had forced any rethink in approach by the Department of Foreign Affairs. Australian journalist Peter Greste, who previously shared a prison cell with Mr Halawa, yesterday urged the Government to seek a presidential decree, which was used to secure his freedom. Verdicts had been expected yesterday in the mass trial involving Mr Halawa and 490 other defendants. However, the court ordered a review of technical evidence, involving a reassessment of video footage, and adjourned proceedings until October 2. The news was greeted with concern by the Dubliner's family and Mr Flanagan. The minister said he would be conveying his concerns about the latest delay to the Egyptian government and would be seeking more information on the review of technical evidence and its likely impact on the trial. Mr Halawa's sister Somaia said the family was "devastated" by the adjournment, describing it as "deeply troubling". The quintessential grown-up drink at this time of the year has to be a G&T. Tonic water originated in India during colonial times, when British officers added quinine powder, a malaria-preventative, to a solution of sugar and soda water. With gin back in fashion, there has been a revival of interest in tonic water. We tested three large and two boutique brands. Poacher's Premium Irish Tonic Water, 200ml, 1.55 9/10 This new Irish tonic water is made without artificial sweeteners, preservatives or flavourings. The tonic water is sweetened with sugar beet and flavoured with orange and rosemary. Our testers thought it was delicious - good enough to drink on its own. At the moment, it's mainly sold in bars, and the smaller bottle means the price is disproportionately high compared to the tonic waters in larger bottles. Fevertree Indian Tonic Water, 500ml, 2.99 9/10 Fevertree is made without artificial sweeteners, flavourings or preservatives, which justifies the premium price. It's not as bitter as some that we tested and the botanical flavourings make for a lovely drink that doesn't even need gin. Schweppes Tonic Water, 1 litre, 1.55 7/10 Schweppes is the best known brand when it comes to tonic water. This has a clean taste that's not too bitter and is a good price for a quality product. Refreshing. Tesco Indian Tonic Water, 1 litre, 89c 5/10 The cheapest by a long way of the tonic waters that we tested, the Tesco own-brand version is also significantly lower in calories than the others with 16kcal per 100ml. Close examination of the label reveals that this is because saccharine and aspartame are used alongside the sugar. Absolutely fine with plenty of ice and lemon, and gin, of course. Club Tonic Water, 850ml, 1.49 5/10 With a more bitter flavour profile than the Schweppes tonic water, our testers weren't overly fond of this tonic water on its own, but it's acceptable as a mixer. Premium Dan O'Brien Opinion While we catastrophise about Covid, we ignore risk of running out of cash We Irish view the world in an increasingly strange and unhealthy way. We catastrophise about Covid in a way other European countries do not. We focus on how bad the effects of the virus could get, on how many more restrictions might be imposed by Government and how helpless we are in the face of the virus. You know that moment when the teacher takes a boy to the sick bay and the class becomes raucous and slightly hysterical with the possibility of rebellion? Voices grow loud and shrill, someone throws open a window, rubbers fly. The absence of authority is liberating at first, but soon all but the wildest kids are glancing nervously at the door, wishing that Miss would hurry back so order can be restored. That's how it felt in the days following the vote for Brexit. Even the weather was troubled and wouldn't settle. After 10 weeks of telling us what to do, our leaders quit the stage - leaving a vacuum that soon filled with all kinds of ugliness and dread. Instead of obeying that excellent, most British, of mottoes, Keep Calm and Carry On, many opted for Get Yourself In A Right State And Refuse To Move On. They were whipped up by social media, politicians and broadcasters who should have known better. Distraught Remainers, who only days before had been urging tolerance and respect, insulted the old (for blighting the future of the young), and called Leave voters "sewage" and "scum". Powerful people, who held almost all the cards in the campaign, simply could not accept that they had lost. One lachrymose Remainer declared that it was "the worst day in Britain since 1939". What, worse than Aberfan, when 116 children had their lives snuffed out? Worse than the Seventies, when the dead went unburied because of chronic strikes? The want of perspective was staggering. Welcome to the national nervous breakdown. Given a chance to steady the ship through what were bound to be a turbulent few months, political parties decided instead to see who could do the best impersonation of a five-year-old overdosing on Percy Pigs. Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat leader, never easily mistaken for Winston Churchill, said he was "angry and disappointed". Sorry to hear that, Tim. Nicola Sturgeon seized the opportunity to hold the country to ransom, threatening another shot at Scottish independence even though she won't dare try until she's sure she'll win (and Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, couldn't be bothered to meet her yesterday). Then there was Labour. Instead of addressing the mortifying fact that it was the Labour heartlands what won it for Brexit, MPs set about ejecting Jeremy Corbyn, the one party leader who privately shared the majority view. Obviously, a politician who was in touch with the voters could not go unpunished. The BBC, meanwhile, was scouring the country for Leave voters. The Beeb, which managed to be reasonably neutral during the campaign, had moved on from Project Fear to Project Hysterical Over-Reaction. It revelled in every piece of bad news and sought out racist incidents to prove that Britons had secretly been waiting for the day when they could get that Klu Klux Klan cossie out of the cupboard. And yet, for every disgusting note to an Eastern European family in Huntingdon, there was the Welsh Polish Association, in my home town of Llanelli, which found a gorgeous picture of Polish airmen during the war stuck on its door with the message: "Thanks for being here then... still glad you're here now." Such gestures, far truer to the character of this fundamentally decent and strikingly unracist nation (Austria, anyone?), got little airtime because they failed to fit the narrative of division and hate. Is British self-loathing now so acceptable that it's OK for the national broadcaster to deliberately talk down the country? I much preferred that lovely, smiley Northern lady who told a fretful BBC reporter: "Oh, it'll settle down." Did we really detect a deliberate dragging of feet by the Prime Minister, Chancellor and other humiliated Remainers? Is there a desperation for Leave to fail so that they will be vindicated? If so, shame on them for playing student politics at a time when steady, responsible grown-ups are sorely needed. And how dismal it is to see human rights lawyers, of all people, joining the call for a second referendum, which would, presumably, correct the dumb choice made by the British on June 23. The working class are considered good enough to fight and die for Britain in the trenches and on the beaches, but when the battle of Britain is to get us out of the clutches of Brussels, well, I'm awfully sorry, but they're simply not up to it, are they? Let's get some brainy, enlightened fellows in here to put the chavs right. The stench of snobbery is as overwhelming as it is misplaced. It turns out that 42pc of ABs (that's the wealthy and professionals) voted Out, so we Leavers are not the educationally subnormal, subsistence-level scum others like to paint us as. I'll be honest with you. There've been times in the past week when I've thought, why did we have the wretched referendum in the first place? I've been copied in on round-robin emails from friends who assume that I'd like to attend a pro-EU rally. It's uncomfortable. Their assumption is that I must share their opinion - because what other view would it be acceptable for a nice person to hold? When the Remainer Daughter finally started talking to me again and said, "Well, you won, Mum," I felt sad. Sad that so many people like her feel upset, sad that what I truly believe is best for Britain in the long term is a source of so much anger and misery here and now. After the Scottish referendum in 2014, Queen Elizabeth issued a statement calling for unity. Had Britain voted Remain last Thursday, she would have done so again, but David Cameron apparently called the palace and it was agreed that she would say nothing. I think that was a mistake. Britain is fractious and divided. Who better than the Queen to remind people that to be British is to keep calm and carry on? Please say something, Ma'am. ( Daily Telegraph, London) Yesterday German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned the remaining 27 member states not to tie themselves up in technocratic talk in the coming months, but concentrate on delivering policy to change citizens' lives for the better REUTERS/Hannibal Hanschke The unpalatable realities of the brave new post-Brexit world dawned yesterday when, for the first time in more than four decades, a summit took place in Brussels without a British Prime Minister in attendance. In the new paradigm, Taoiseach Enda Kenny found himself bringing the full wrath of the Tory establishment down on his head by having the temerity to suggest to EU leaders that Scotland should not be "dragged out" of the European Union. His intervention was seen as bad form, and he was castigated for "batting for Scotland" while it is still very much a part of the UK. But the Conservatives can't have it both ways. The clock cannot be turned back. Mr Kenny's comments were very much informed by his concern for the fate of the North which also voted to Remain. The consequences of Brexit cannot be ignored nor its inconvenient truths glossed over. Of course it was unorthodox for Mr Kenny to speak "on behalf" of the Scottish Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon at an EU Council. But these are not normal times. Things are rapidly unravelling and no one has the time nor the luxury of thumbing through the 80,000 pages of EU law that cover every contingency. Ireland is in the slipstream of the Brexit storm and risks a financial buffeting like no other country, as evidenced by yesterday's warning from Central Bank Governor Philip Lane who told staff, in an internal memo, that the bank would be revising its economic forecasts in the wake of the vote. Yesterday German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned the remaining 27 member states not to tie themselves up in technocratic talk in the coming months, but concentrate on delivering policy to change citizens' lives for the better. She sensibly called for practical and pragmatic reforms after a period of political reflection. "We have to convince people through what we do . . . It is not about more or less Europe but that better results are achieved." Brexit is a symptom of the fact that Europe is in desperate need of reform. The pity of it is that Britain has opted out instead of in to drive this change. The over-riding criticism of the EU has been that it is hide-bound, autocratic and undemocratic. As it struggles to regain a sense of purpose and cohesion, it would do well to heed the words of the French philosopher Blaise Pascal who counselled: "Any unity which doesn't have its origin in the multitudes is tyranny." Trust is a must when the taxpayer funds charities Once more, the charity sector finds itself convulsed by damaging allegations, this time concerning Console. It is to be welcomed that the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has called an emergency meeting with the Health Service Executive (HSE) to get some badly needed answers. There are approximately 4,500 charities doing exceptional work in Ireland. They are offering services that in other countries are often provided by the state. Many are in receipt of public funds, which come out of the taxpayers pocket. This money represents an endorsement of the charity and is seen as a vote of confidence. It implies recognition for good work and it builds confidence and that is why it must be protected and only given under the most stringent terms. Any claims of abuse will undermine public support and in turn check the generous impulse to give. That is why all allegations must be thoroughly investigated. Proper regulation and transparency are essential in any public enterprise, but nowhere more so than in the voluntary sector, which is built on the pillars of trust and accountability. I read with interest yesterday's letter from Tommy Roddy on the impact of younger voters in recent referenda. In a previous referendum, Ireland voted on lowering the electable age of the President. I wondered whether we should not have been voting on lowering the age of voter eligibility as opposed to the electable age of the President. If we are seriously considering reducing the age of eligibility of our First Citizen, then surely more young people should partake in the voting process. Many feel excluded from decisions that affect them. The referendum on Scotland's continuation in the UK proved interesting in many ways. Apart from a terrific turnout, what impressed me most was the registration of 90pc of 16- and 17-year-olds. This is surely the way for Ireland to go now, by lowering the voting age to 16. At this stage, many prospective voters are less cynical and more willing to engage in the democratic process. So many younger voters become disillusioned that by the time an election or referendum comes around, they have no interest in voting. Apathy and disillusion lead to low voter turnout and our referendum on the abolition of the Seanad had only a 30pc turnout. From speaking to many younger people, I believe that if 16-year-olds were eligible to vote in Ireland, there would be higher voter awareness of the issues, more enthusiasm for debate and definitely an increased turnout. Schools and colleges could put more emphasis on current affairs, as many school-goers feel that much of what they are taught is irrelevant to them. If they were more involved in the electoral process, then perhaps subjects such as history would no longer be downgraded and would become a more popular option. After all, if we do not learn from our mistakes, we will inevitably repeat them. Another intriguing aspect of the Scottish independence referendum was that counting of votes went through the night and there was a clear outcome early the following morning. Believe me, having experienced a few election counts, I would much prefer a quicker result. Why can't we adopt this idea? Mike Geraghty Upper Newcastle, Galway Wise words from O'Leary I heard Olivia O'Leary, wise woman that she is, say at the end of her usual excellent talk on RTE's Drivetime radio programme with regard to Brexit: "Britain is gone, now the European leaders must give good reasons for the rest of us to stay." Yes indeed Olivia, yes indeed. Brian Mc Devitt Glenties, Co Donegal Taking stock of democracy If democracy were a share on the stock market, perhaps politicians would pay more attention to it. Nick Crawford Dalkey, Co Dublin. Brexit II was a fair result UK health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said there should be a another referendum on Britain's terms for leaving the EU. Talk about being a sore loser - any it would be a waste of time, Jeremy, as the majority of Brits believe that Iceland won fair and square... Seamus McLoughlin, Keshcarrigan, Co Leitrim Humanity's loss in Great War The 100th anniversary of the start of the Battle of the Somme in WWI takes place this week. It lasted from July 1 to November 18, 1916. The incessant noise of the big guns and shells was heard at times across the English Channel in London. It was seen as the big push to shorten the war and the war's biggest battle on the Western Front; 623,907 died on the Allied side and 419,989 were lost on the German side - over a million dead and wounded. Its hottest day was August 2. Soldiers wearing heavy uniforms must have felt huge stress and pressure fighting near bodies decomposing faster in the hot sun, with the rodents and lice in the trenches adding to it all. Nurses and medical orderlies died in WWI and showed immense courage under fire. Australia, for example, had thousands of nurses with the Allies in Europe and as far as Egypt, anywhere where WWI was fought. One Australian female nursing officer wrote in a diary on the Western Front: "The noise was so terrific [loud], and the concussion [blast] so great that I was thrown to the ground and had no idea where the damage was. I flew through the chest and abdomen wards and called out: 'Are you alright boys?'. 'Don't bother [worry] about us', was the general cry." Conflict still takes place in our enlightened times, like the five-year war (so far) in Syria. There will be a service of Peace and Reconciliation in Cork to commemorate the Battle of the Somme at St. Fin Barre's Cathedral on Friday, July 1, at 6.30pm. All are welcome. Mary Sullivan Cork Our golfers and the Rio Games First McIlroy. Then McDowell. Now Shane Lowry has pulled out of Rio. They're falling like flies. Ted Cronin Tralee, Co Kerry Spotlight on charities required We have recently again seen allegations made against a large national charity which provides, what many people would consider an essential service. This follows other issues with large charitable organisations in recent years, and now begs the question, 'Where does charity begin?'. As a considerable number of charities now appear to provide services - including health, housing and social services - the second part of the question has to be 'Where do public services stop?'. It is a matter of opinion what services can be classified as essential, necessary or desirable, but if charitable service providers grow to such an extent as to replace public services with an increasingly aggressive and competitive collection process, then surely the time has come to call a halt. As the sector has now become recognised as a major part of the economy and dedicated regulations are now in place under the Charities Regulator, perhaps we have now reached a point where charitable status should be subject to a turnover limit and the Government's spending should take into account that some public services have large deficiencies. In the absence of adding a dedicated Government charity tax or levy to replace collections for larger charities or selling more lottery tickets, maybe this should be an alternative way of spending State funds, with the obvious rider that 'accepted essential services' are ring-fenced and cannot become future targets for austerity. This approach might also avoid the need for further costly regulations. Owen Davin Ferrybank, Waterford A Palestinian attacker has stabbed a 13-year-old Israeli girl to death in her bed after breaking into her home in a West Bank settlement. The 17-year-old attacker was fatally shot by security guards in Kiryat Arba and the Israeli military sealed off entrances to a nearby village which was his home. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on both the Palestinian leadership and the international community to condemn the brutal assault. "The horrifying murder of a young girl in her bed underscores the bloodlust and inhumanity of the incitement-driven terrorists that we are facing," Mr Netanyahu said after an emergency meeting with his defence minister. "The entire nation deeply identifies with the family's pain and declares to the murderers: you will not break us." Hospital officials identified the girl as Hallel Yaffa Ariel. She was a cousin of Uri Ariel, a cabinet minister from the Jewish Home, a party affiliated with the West Bank settler movement. The minister later said Israel would make "every effort" to build up settlements in the West Bank. Photographs circulated by the Israeli government showed a pool of blood in a colourful children's bedroom in Kiryat Arba, a hard-line Jewish settlement located near the Palestinian city of Hebron, a focal point of the current wave of violence. In Washington, the US State Department condemned "in the strongest terms the outrageous terrorist attack", calling the stabbing "unconscionable". Since September, Palestinians have carried out dozens of stabbing, shooting and vehicle ramming attacks that have killed 33 Israelis and two American tourists. About 200 Palestinians have been killed during that time, most identified as attackers by Israel. The assaults were once near-daily occurrences, but have become less frequent in recent months though they have not stopped altogether. On June 8, a pair of Palestinian gunmen killed four Israeli civilians in a popular Tel Aviv tourist district. Israeli officials say the violence is the result of anti-Israeli incitement by Palestinian leaders and in Palestinian social media. Palestinian officials say the violence is the result of despair and hopelessness after two decades of failed peace efforts, and the lack of hope for gaining independence after nearly 50 years of Israeli occupation. Israeli security forces have had a difficult time stopping the attackers, in large part because they have tended to be young "lone wolf" assailants, often in their teens or early 20s, acting on their own and not sent by organised militant groups. Thursday's attacker seemed to fit that profile. The Palestinian Health Ministry identified him as Mohammed Tarayreh, 17, from the Bani Naim village near Kiryat Arba. Adnan Tarayreh, a cousin, said Tarayreh had dropped out of school and was working in a bakery. He said the family was surprised by his attack and speculated that the teen may have been spurred to action after the death of a cousin who was killed while attempting to ram Israelis in Kiryat Arba. The military said it had closed the entrances of Bani Naim to all but humanitarian and medical cases. Troops arrived at Tarayreh's family home for investigation, the army said. Mr Netanyahu said Israel is revoking Israeli work permits for members of Tarayreh's extended family, and preparations are being made to demolish the family's home - a much criticised Israeli tactic. Residents of Kiryat Arba said Tarayreh had climbed over a fence surrounding the settlement and entered the community undetected. The military said private Israeli security guards at the settlement had fired at Tarayreh as he tried to flee the attack scene. One guard was stabbed before the assailant was killed and is in a serious condition. Speaking to reporters at the Jerusalem hospital where her daughter died, Hallel's mother Rina said the girl was sleeping when the attacker slipped into her room and attacked her. She defiantly said the community would remain strong. "Kiryat Arba is ours and it's still a place you can live in," she said. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has not commented on the attack. AP Afghan security forces inspect the site of a suicide attack on a bus carrying trainee policemen (AP) A twin suicide attack on a convoy of buses carrying Afghan police cadets has left 37 people dead. The attack took place in Paghman district, about 12 miles west of the capital Kabul, and left another 40 people injured. Local governor Mousa Rahmati said t he first suicide attacker struck two buses carrying trainee policemen, and a second bomber targeted those who rushed to the scene to help and hit a third bus. Four civilians were among those killed. The cadets were returning from a training centre in Wardak province and were heading to the capital on leave. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the attack was the work of two suicide bombers who detonated their explosives 20 minutes apart. The office of Afghan president Mohammed Ashraf Ghani described the bombing as an "attack on humanity", and ordered an interior ministry investigation into the incident. In a statement, the US Embassy in Kabul condemned the attack. "This cruel and complete disregard for human life during the holy month of Ramadan is abhorrent," the statement said. AP In a separate incident, two people were killed and four injured in an attack on a convoy carrying security forces in eastern Ghazni province. The attack took place in Andar district as the convoy was en route from Paktika province to Ghazni. Th e deputy chief of the Paktika intelligence service was among those killed. The unforgiving effect of El Nino has resulted in over 10.2 million people in Ethiopia in need of food aid. The country is experiencing the worst drought in three decades. Those who were already vulnerable before the climate change phenomenon are the worst affected. When crops failed last year, only those who could afford it had reserves. Leaving many people with nothing. Especially those who rely on working on farms for income. I spoke to Danisto, a widow and mother of four, in a small rural village in Southern Ethiopia. Danistos life was difficult before El Nino, but her situation has become dire because of the drought. My husband died six years ago. After his death, I could no longer afford to feed all four of my children. I had to send my older children away. For the past six years they have lived with other families, in another village 60 km away. I havent seen any of them in over a year. They work for the families they stay with so they can eat and go to school. Her husband was a labourer on a farm and died suddenly after a two day sickness. While it was a struggle when he was alive, their life has become increasingly difficult. Danisto tells me this heart-breaking story with tears in her eyes in her small thatched home where she lives with her youngest son, Kitsea. Both of them labour on neighbours farms in order to survive. Danisto works for a local farmer and is paid approximately 50c for eight hours work per day. Kitsea, who is seven years old, herds cattle. I have nothing. If I could afford to feed my children, I would bring them home. I would have them live with me and watch them grow up but I have nothing. The farm Danisto works on has been heavily affected by El Nino. Droughts devastated food production in areas reliant on rain for crop production. Just over 80% of the working population in Ethiopia is employed in the agricultural sector. The farmers crops failed last year because the rain didnt come. He didnt have much work for me. It was a very difficult time. We had very little to survive on. My son and I were hungry. I hope the rains will come this year so I can get work and feed my son. Danistos children learned of the struggle their mother has endured and plan to come home and do some maintenance work on her home. They know of my situation and want to help me. But I am their mother, I am supposed to help them. Life is very difficult. I miss my children. I wont see them grow up. I have lost everything. Ciara Jordan is GOAL's Communication Officer. GOAL has been working in Ethiopia since 1984. Since November 2015, GOAL Ethiopia has expanded its operations from 22 districts to 66 districts across Ethiopia to respond to the El Nino crisis. During 2015, the Irish charity reached circa 600,000 direct beneficiaries. To find out more, go to goalglobal.org. The three suicide bombers who attacked Istanbul airport were a Russian, an Uzbek and a Kyrgyz, Turkish officials said as they rounded up 13 people suspected of involvement in the deadly assault in sweeping raids across the city. The death toll from Tuesday's gun and bomb attack at Ataturk Airport has risen to 44 after two more victims succumbed to their injuries. More than 230 people were injured in the attack. In raids in 16 locations in Istanbul, 13 people suspected of having links to the Islamic State group, the most likely perpetrator of the attack at one of the world's busiest airports, were detained. The manhunt spanned three neighbourhoods on the city's Asian and European sides and three of those held were foreign nationals. IS has not said it was behind the attack, but it is known to use Turkey as a crossing point to establish itself in neighbouring Syria and Iraq, and the group boasted this week of having cells in Turkey, among other countries. In a separate police operation, nine suspects believed to be linked to IS were detained in the coastal city of Izmir. It is not clear if the suspects had any links to the carnage at the airport. The Izmir raids unfolded simultaneously in the neighbourhoods of Konak, Bucak, Karabaglar and Bornova, according to the Anadolu Agency. Police seized three hunting rifles and documents relating to IS during the raids. Anadolu said the suspects were in contact with IS militants in Syria and were engaged in "activities that were in line with the organisation's aims and interests", including providing financial sources, recruits and logistical support. Days before the Istanbul attack, on June 25, security forces killed two suspected Islamic State militants who were trying to cross the border illegally and ignored orders from security forces to stop, according to local media reports. One of the two militants was wanted by Turkey on suspicion that he would carry out suicide attacks in the capital Ankara or in the southern city of Adana, Anadolu said. Turkey shares long, porous borders with both Syria and Iraq, where IS controls large pockets of territory. The government has blamed IS for several major bombings over the past year, including in the capital Ankara, and on tourists in Istanbul. In tribute to the victims of the latest attack, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is to be illuminated in the colours of the Turkish flag. The monument will be lit up in red and white at 11pm local time on Thursday. Deputy Paris mayor Bruno Julliard said it would be "a reminder of the unbreakable support of the city of Paris" to the Turkish nation and to the victims of Tuesday's attack. On Wednesday, the image of the Turkish flag was projected on to several world sites including Berlin's Brandenburg Gate and Amsterdam's Royal Palace. AP Menomonie resident, Sheli Metzger, has been selected to serve on the Wisconsin Council for Mental Health (WCMH). Legislatively mandated under Wisconsin statutes as the mental health planning Council for the State, WCMH was created to advise the governor, legislature and Department of Health Services on the allocation of Mental Health Block Grant funds. Its 20 to 25 members meet bi-monthly; at least 50 percent of the members are consumers and/or family members. Metzger, a licensed substance abuse counselor, serves as project coordinator of the Dunn County Mental Health Improvement Project, a collaboration between Arbor Place, Inc., UW-Stout, and other local behavioral health providers to provide free training in an evidence-based program called Mental Health First Aid to adults who regularly interact with 16- to 24-year olds. The goal is to provide adults with the skills to help young persons who are developing a mental health problem or experiencing a crisis as well as increase early detection of specific illnesses. A Syrian refugee has been hailed as a "hero" in Germany after he handed 50,000 in cash that he found hidden in a wardrobe over to the authorities. The 25-year-old, named by German tabloid 'Bild' as Muhannad M, found the money in a wardrobe he was given by a charity after being granted asylum in Germany. But instead of pocketing the cash, which could have transformed his life, he handed it in to the authorities in Minden, near Hannover, the small town where he has been staying after fleeing from the war-torn Syrian city of Homs last year. As well as 50,000 in cash, Muhannad also found savings accounts books worth more than 100,000. "For the police and the town, he is the hero of the day," the local police said in a statement. "This young man has behaved in an exemplary fashion and deserves major credit," a police spokesman said. "It's quite often the case that someone finds a smaller amount of cash and hands it in to the police. But for it to happen with such a large sum is absolutely exceptional." Muhannad found the money between two shelves as he was reassembling the wardrobe, which he had been given by a charity to help furnish the flat where he is staying. The cash was in 500 notes, the highest euro denomination, which the European Central Bank is planning to phase out over fears it is mainly used by organised crime. Muhannad said he had never seen such high-value notes before, and checked on the internet to see if the money was real. He told 'Bild' that the money would have enabled him to bring his two younger brothers to Germany if he had kept it. "But Allah would never allow it, to finance your own interests with someone else's property," he added. When he discovered it was real, he handed it in at the town's office for foreigners, where staff passed it on to the police. Investigations are now under way to find the money's rightful owner. Under German law, Muhannad is entitled to a finder's reward of 3pc of the total amount - or 4,500 if the savings books are included. (Daily Telegraph, London) Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022] The Italian navy was towing a boat packed with the bodies of hundreds of dead migrants toward Sicily yesterday, after raising the vessel from the seabed of the Mediterranean a year after it sank. In Europe's worst maritime tragedy since the Second World War, the ex-fishing boat sank last April after accidentally colliding with a Portuguese merchant vessel that had been sent to rescue it, with an estimated 800 migrants and refugees losing their lives. Most of the people on board had been locked into the hold by smugglers and stood zero chance of survival as the boat sank to a depth of 370 metres. After a technical operation that has lasted several weeks, the Italian navy finally managed to lift the boat from the seabed with the aid of an unmanned underwater robotic vehicle. The boat's portholes, hatches and other openings were sealed to ensure that none of the bodies were lost as it was slowly winched up from the seabed. It was lifted onto a barge that is being towed to the port of Augusta in Sicily. It will then be lifted onto dry land and covered in a vast, refrigerated tent-like structure, in which forensic experts will begin trying to identify the victims. "The operation to recover the corpses from the wreck will begin, carried out by the national fire service and by personnel from the Italian Red Cross," the navy said in a statement yesterday. "The bodies will be examined by medical experts from various universities with the aim of gathering useful information that will enable the corpses to be identified." The recovery of the boat has been technically challenging and expensive. But it fulfils a promise made by Matteo Renzi, the prime minister, that Italy would do its utmost to identify the victims and give them proper funerals. The Italians hope to identify victims through dental records, DNA samples and distinguishing body marks, in order to bring some comfort to grieving relatives. The operation, which involved several Italian navy ships, began last month but was repeatedly hampered by rough seas and strong winds. Just 28 migrants survived when the boat collided with the Portuguese vessel, allegedly because the smuggler in charge was drunk or high on marijuana and miscalculated the delicate task of trying to draw alongside the merchant vessel. In the aftermath of the tragedy around 50 bodies were recovered. Another 171 were found around the wreck by the Italian navy. There could be as many as 600 bodies still crammed inside the wreck. More than 13,000 migrants trying to reach Italy from the coast of Libya were rescued in the Mediterranean in just the last week. So far this year more than 65,000 migrants and refugees have reached Italy from Libya and Egypt. ( Daily Telegraph, London) Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022] President Vladimir Putin said Russia is lifting a ban on tourism to Turkey after his first talks with Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan since the downing of a Russian warplane plunged relations into crisis. It's time "to begin the process of normalising trade relations" with Turkey by lifting sanctions, starting with tourism despite the threat of terrorism shown by the attack on Istanbul airport, Putin told a government meeting yesterday. Mr Erdogan "assured me that the Turkish government will do all they can to ensure the safety of our citizens" in Turkey, he said. Mr Putin and Mr Erdogan held "constructive" phone talks earlier yesterday that focused "on restoration of the traditionally friendly" ties between Russia and Turkey, the Kremlin said in a statement. They agreed to meet at the earliest opportunity, it said. Putin also offered "deep condolences" for the victims of the Istanbul attack. The rapid warming of relations came after Mr Erdogan sent Mr Putin a letter Tuesday offering "sympathy and profound condolences to the family of the Russian pilot who was killed" when Turkish fighter jets shot down his warplane near the Syrian border in November. The Kremlin initially said Erdogan had apologised for the incident, though a text of the letter that appeared later on its website quoted him as saying "Excuse us". A statement from the Turkish presidential office didn't refer to Erdogan's remarks as an apology. Russia and its Turkish "partners" will seek a resolution to the Syrian conflict together, foreign minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters in Paris yesterday after talks with his French counterpart Jean-Marc Ayrault. Mr Lavrov said he'll have bilateral talks with Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavasoglu at a Black Sea economic co-operation conference in Russia's Sochi tomorrow. Mr Putin accused Turkey of a "stab in the back" for downing the jet while it was engaged in a mission against Islamic State and other militants in northern Syria. Turkey, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, said the aircraft crossed into its territory and ignored warnings, while Russia insisted the plane never left Syrian airspace. Mr Putin warned of "serious consequences" and imposed sanctions that included a ban on charter flights that hurt Turkey's tourism industry. Imports of some Turkish fruits and vegetables were also barred. The tensions with Russia contributed to Turkey's record drop in foreign-tourist arrivals in May. There was a 92pc decline in Russian visitors as the number of overall arrivals fell by 35pc to 2.49 million compared to a year earlier. It was Turkey's 10th consecutive monthly fall in arrivals, the longest streak of year-on-year declines in statistics that span a decade, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Tourism accounts for 6.2pc of Turkey's economic output, according to the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies, and 8pc of employment. The Malcolm Grow medical centre was the focus of the alert at Joint Base Andrews (AP) A major security operation swung into action at a US military base regularly used by President Barack Obama when someone mistook personnel conducting a routine inspection for a gunman. Confusion at Joint Base Andrews near central Washington was heightened as commanders were preparing to carry out a drill on dealing with an "active shooter" on the complex at the time. A distress call reporting a "shooter" sparked a full lockdown of the site, with all personnel urged to seek shelter. But the lockdown was lifted a short time later for most of the site, and the all clear was given. No gunman was found and officials said there was no threat to the base or workers. The base is home to presidential jet Air Force One and other aircraft used by Mr Obama and top members of the US government. Mr Obama was last at the base on Wednesday night when he returned from a trip to Ottawa, Canada. Base commander Col Brad Hoagland said in a Facebook post: "We take all threats seriously and reacted to ensure the security of those on the base." The all clear was given for all areas apart from in the Malcolm Grow medical centre where the "active shooter" report came in. It is not clear why the lockdown remains in place in that area. Vice-president Joe Biden was scheduled to leave from Andrews on Thursday morning, but his trip was delayed by the alert. Eyewitnesses said emergency vehicles on the base had on their lights, but no sirens. At least three people in camouflage and helmets were seen walking working dogs around the three-storey medical building. A number of people were then seen leaving the building, including a person being moved in a wheelchair. AP At the height of their so-called caliphate, in late 2014-2015, Isil controlled as much as a third of Iraq and Syria. Today marks two years to the day since Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant's so-called caliphate. Taking advantage of the war in Syria and the instability and sectarian divisions in neighbouring Iraq, the extremist group swept through huge swathes of both countries in the summer of 2014, tearing down the border as they went. Over the past two years, Isil has exported its brutal brand of terror around the world. Their influence has spread to Islamist groups such as Boko Haram in Nigeria, Abu Sayyaf in the Philippines and the Caucasus Emirate in Russia, each pledging allegiance to Isil leader Baghdadi. Their brutal rule has claimed the lives of thousands of civilians in Syria, Iraq and most recently Libya. Along the way they have displaced millions from their homes. Together with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the group is responsible for the biggest refugee crisis since the World War II. Dozens of attacks have been carried out in their name in the Middle East and in the West. Last year they managed the unthinkable - to down a commercial jet over the Sinai in Egypt with a smuggled bomb, killing 217 people. Militants gunned down more than 100 innocents at a Paris club and a newspaper office, at beaches in Sousse and an archaeological museum in Tunis. Most recently an Isil sympathiser shot dead nearly 50 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Such has been the frequency of their attacks that some barely got a mention - such as the 43 people who lost their lives in a double suicide bombing on a residential neighbourhood of Beirut, Lebanon. But the US-led coalition, with the help of the Iraqi and Libyan governments, have begun the fightback. In recent months they have launched offensives on its strongholds in Ramadi, Hit and Fallujah in Iraq, and the coastal city of Sirte in Libya. Most have been successful. Isil is now much diminished. They have lost as much as a third of their territory and foreign fighters have increasingly become disillusioned, defecting in record numbers. But US and UK officials warn the fight is far from won. Isil is adapting and changing and has realigned its strategy to focus on terror attacks rather than territory. At the height of their so-called caliphate, in late 2014-2015, Isil controlled as much as a third of Iraq and Syria. But where are we now? The coalition claims its air strikes, coupled with ground offensives led by the Iraqi army and Peshmerga in the north, has seen Isil lose more than 45pc of the territory it once held. In the last six months, they have been defeated in Hit, Rutbah and Ramadi. Last week the army recaptured Fallujah, a city of some 100,000 people. The big battle now will be for Mosul, Iraq's second city, where more than one million people are thought to live under Isil. The Peshmerga has made great progress in the towns and villages to the south, but it could be several months before they are in the position to go at Mosul. Isil's revenue has been cut by almost 30pc in the past year as it loses control of territory and people to tax. Income for the extremist movement once called the richest terrorist group in the world fell from around 56 million each month in March 2015 to 40 million last month. Air Vice-Marshal Edward Stringer, the head of British efforts to hit Isil finances, told the parliamentary foreign affairs sub-committee that the coalition's strikes have severely hit its oil industry. He estimated Isil economy was split 40/40/20 on oil, taxation and criminal activities and donations. That, Mr Stringer said, has moved to 20/50/30. The flow of foreign fighters into Iraq and Syria has fallen almost 90pc within the past year, the Pentagon claims. This is in a large part due to Turkey shutting its border with Syria. It is thought the number leaving from France, Belgium, Germany and Denmark is down to fewer than five a month. Embassies in Turkey suggest they are seeing record number of defections from Western fighters who have become increasingly disillusioned. However, it has done nothing to slow its global reach. In the last few years they have seen dozens of foreign Islamist groups pledge allegiance to Baghdadi.( Daily Telegraph London) Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022] Wendy MacDougall, Dunn County Public Health director, provided the following information as a reminder to avoid contact with animals that may transmit rabies infection: Wisconsin has approximately two to three dozen cases of positive test results from animals infected with rabies, mostly bats. In 2016 there have already been nine bats testing positive in Western Region counties including Dunn, St.Croix, Eau Claire and La Crosse. About rabies Rabies is an infectious viral disease that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals. Any wild mammal, like a raccoon, skunk, fox, coyote, or bat, can have rabies and transmit it to people. Rabid wildlife can also expose domestic animals to the rabies virus. Because rabies is a fatal disease, the goal of public health is, first, to prevent human exposure to rabies by education and, second, to prevent the disease by anti-rabies treatment if exposure occurs. Most of the recent human rabies cases in the United States have been caused by rabies virus from bats. Awareness of the facts about bats and rabies can help people protect themselves, their families, and their pets. If you are bitten by a bat or if infectious material (such as saliva) from a bat gets into your eyes, nose, mouth, or a wound wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and warm water and get medical advice immediately. Whenever possible, the bat should be captured and sent to a laboratory for rabies testing People usually know when they have been bitten by a bat. However, because bats have small teeth which may leave marks that are not easily seen, there are situations in which you should seek medical advice even in the absence of an obvious bite wound. For example, if you awaken and find a bat in your room, see a bat in the room of an unattended child, or see a bat near a mentally impaired or intoxicated person, seek medical advice and have the bat tested. Testing for rabies Rabies can be confirmed only in a laboratory. Even normal appearing bats may be rabid. It is best to assume all bats have rabies and to never handle or touch any bat. If you think your pet or domestic animal has been bitten by a bat, contact a veterinarian or your health department for assistance immediately and have the bat tested for rabies. Remember to keep vaccinations current for cats, dogs, and other animals even if they are kept indoors. Vaccinated pets serve as an important buffer between humans and the wildlife that can carry rabies. Prevention Teach children never to approach or handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly. Love your own, leave other animals alone is a good principle for children to learn. Wash any bite or scratch from an animal thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately. If bitten by an owned animal, obtain the owners name and address. Your local health department or law enforcement can order the animal to be observed for 10 days and the bite victim will not need to receive the preventive rabies shots if the animal shows no signs of rabies. Have all dead, sick, or easily captured bats tested for rabies if exposure to people or pets occurs. Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas where they might contact people and pets. Be a responsible pet owner by keeping vaccinations current for all dogs, cats, and ferrets, keeping your cats and ferrets inside and your dogs under direct supervision, calling animal control to remove stray animals from your neighborhood, and by having your pets spayed or neutered. Said he suffered three broken teeth and required six stitches to his head after being attacked by three men in the early hours of Monday. Instagram/PA Wire Calum McSwiggan, who has been charged with filing a false police report after he claimed he was assaulted near a gay club in West Hollywood. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department/PA Wire A British YouTube personality who claimed he was assaulted near a gay club in West Hollywood has been charged with filing a false police report. Calum McSwiggan, from London, said he suffered three broken teeth and required six stitches to his head after being attacked by three men in the early hours of Monday. The 26-year-old, who has more than 62,000 subscribers on YouTube, shared details of the alleged incident on Instagram with a picture of him in a hospital bed. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said officers investigated McSwiggan's report and were "unable to substantiate the assault". "Mr McSwiggan, who had no visible injuries, was subsequently arrested after deputies observed him vandalising a car in the 8900 block of Santa Monica Boulevard," the statement added. The sheriff's department said McSwiggan then began "injuring himself" with a payphone after he was placed in a cell at West Hollywood station. Medical staff were called and he was taken to hospital for treatment, it added. A photograph of McSwiggan was released by police, which they said was taken before he was seen hurting himself. A spokesman for the sheriff's department confirmed he had been charged with filing a false police report. Expand Close Calum McSwiggan, who has been charged with filing a false police report after he claimed he was assaulted near a gay club in West Hollywood. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Calum McSwiggan, who has been charged with filing a false police report after he claimed he was assaulted near a gay club in West Hollywood. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department/PA Wire In a Facebook post, McSwiggan acknowledged he hit himself with the phone which caused the injury that required stitches, but insisted he was attacked by three men. "Many people are trying to discredit my story but this is the full and entire truth," he wrote. "Just because there were no visible marks on my face does not mean I was not attacked. Being accused of being a liar and being called a disgrace to the LGBT+ community, a community I've dedicated my life to, is more painful than any hate crime could ever be." McSwiggan, who was in California for the online video conference VidCon, is known to his followers on YouTube for discussing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues. In his Facebook post, McSwiggan said he attended court on Wednesday. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 19, according to reports. A resident walks down steps in thick fog in the Villa Maria del Triunfo district on the outskirts of Lima, Peru (AP) Tourists in Peru are increasingly combining visits to the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with tours to sample the life lived by so many of the country's people - in its slums. The sights and tastes of Lima's huge shanty towns are not the standard fare of tourists, who are mostly drawn to Peru's majestic sites or to sample the country's renowned cuisine. Yet for some travellers, the slums are precisely why they come - to experience the other side of this diverse Andean nation. This is a Lima where shacks cling precariously to sandy hillsides and the flat roofs of board-and-tin hovels stretch as far as the eye can see on treeless moonscapes. Humble meals are served on battered plates. Ashok Arasu, an Australian doctor, and his physician wife Cherry Wu decided to hike on one of the many misty, grey hills that hold slums in Lima, where a third of Peru's population lives. He said: "We didn't know there were areas like this. I saw something comparable once in Cambodia." The couple handed out notebooks, pencils and socks to many of the children they met, at a time when the shanty town endures the cool, damp weather of the Southern Hemisphere's winter. Other tourists have been known to bring medicine to help treat respiratory infections that affect children in the slums, or they help paint houses. Edwin Rojas is the founder of Haku Tours, which offers tourists guided trips around the sprawling shanty towns that sprang up around Lima and other cities as people fled the countryside amid the brutal war with Shining Path and Tupac Amaru guerrillas. "I want to be just and honest with the visitors who come to get to know my country, Mr Rojas said. "Peru is a country full of 'young towns'." He said his firm is the only travel agency that offers "shanty town tours", along with more traditional historical and culinary tours of Lima. It takes about 400 tourists a year to the slums, in groups of two to six, at a cost of 33 per person. Participants sometimes visit slum markets or they eat meals with local families, sampling daily fare very different from the exquisite dishes served in posh Lima restaurants and increasingly around the world. "More than a tour, it is an anthropological experience for foreigners to get to know the local people with mutual respect," Mr Rojas said. He is aware that similar slum tours in Rio de Janeiro, Mumbai, Nairobi and Johannesburg have been criticised as exploiting the poor, but he said he has built ties with community leaders in Lima's shanty towns. "What we do here is more sensitive because when we visit these communities we help the people and get to know the best of them," he said. AP Lebanese forces have been on high alert after a bomb attack in the village of Qaa on Monday (AP) Two terror plots by the Islamic State group targeting residential and tourist sites in Lebanon have been foiled. The Lebanese army said it had arrested five suspects linked to the plots, among them the alleged mastermind. It did not say where or when the suspects were stopped. The country has been on high alert since nine bombs, eight of which were detonated by suicide attackers, exploded in the eastern border village of Qaa on Monday, killing five residents. No group claimed responsibility. Violence from the neighbouring war in Syria has spilled into Lebanon's border regions. IS and Al-Qaida militants briefly seized the town of Arsal in 2014, before security forces pushed them to the frontier, where they now remain. Puerto Rico is in a decade-long recession and is 70 billion dollars in debt (AP) The US government has delivered relief to debt-stricken Puerto Rico with a last-minute financial rescue package to help the territory of 3.5 million Americans. The Senate passed the bill on a cross-party 68-30 vote, three weeks after the House of Representatives backed the measure overwhelmingly and two days before the island was supposed to make a two billion-dollar (1.5bn) payment to creditors. Puerto Rico is in a decade-long recession and is 70 billion dollars (52bn) in debt. Thousands have fled the territory for the US mainland, businesses have closed, schools have struggled with limited electricity and hospitals have asked for cash payment in advance for some medication. The White House and Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress have warned that without help from Washington the island could descend into economic chaos, with signs already pointing to a humanitarian crisis. In a rare feat of election-year unity, all four Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress supported the bill, which would create a control board to oversee the US territory's finances and supervise some debt restructuring. US president Barack Obama said after the vote that he would sign the bill and commended Congress for passing it. "This bill is not perfect, but it is a critical first step toward economic recovery and restored hope for millions of Americans who call Puerto Rico home," he said. The legislation would not provide any direct financial aid to the territory, but leaders warned that a bailout could eventually become necessary if Congress does not take this step. "If we don't act before the island misses a critical debt payment deadline this Friday, matters will only get worse - for Puerto Rico and for taxpayers," warned Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell. The control board would be similar to one that oversaw the District of Columbia in the late 1990s. Its seven members would oversee negotiations with creditors and the courts over reducing some debt. In addition to creating the board, the bill would require the territory to create a fiscal plan and fund public pensions, which the Puerto Rico government has shorted by more than 40 billion dollars (30bn). Governor Alejandro Garcia Padilla said that with passage of the bill, "we are starting to take the island back from creditors and giving it to Puerto Ricans". He has warned the US territory would face multiple lawsuits if the bill is not approved, especially following Friday's anticipated default on one billion dollars in general obligation bonds. The legislation would temporarily block creditor lawsuits from being filed until February 2017. The general obligation bonds are backed by the island's constitution, but Mr Garcia has said the government has no money to honour that debt despite the implementation of new taxes and recent increases in utility rates. He has not said if the island will default on the other one billion that is due. "Puerto Rico cannot endure any more austerity," he said in an editorial published on Wednesday. US treasury secretary Jacob Lew visited Capitol Hill on Tuesday in a bid to persuade some reluctant Democrats concerned that the board would be too powerful. Democrats have also opposed a provision that would allow the island's government to lower the minimum wage for some younger workers. Mr Lew urged senators to vote for the bill even though it was not perfect, saying that if the island defaulted, the government may be forced to shut public transport, close a hospital or send police officers home. Democratic senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey was staunchly opposed to the bill, monopolising the Senate floor for more than four hours on Tuesday evening, arguing that it adopted a colonial approach. Hillary Clinton's Democratic presidential rival, Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, also opposed it, saying: "In my view we need austerity not for the people of Puerto Rico, but for the billionaire Wall Street hedge fund managers who have exacerbated the crisis on the island." In the days before the vote, some bondholder groups worked to turn senators against the bill, arguing it does not protect creditors sufficiently and is tantamount to a bailout for the territory. Several unions also lobbied against the measure, arguing that a lower minimum wage could take money out of the Puerto Rican economy. The legislation is needed because Puerto Rico cannot declare bankruptcy under federal law. Mainland authorities and their utilities can, while those in Puerto Rico cannot. Some Republicans who opposed the bill said it could set a bad precedent for cash-strapped states. "They'll say, 'If a territory can receive unprecedented authority from Congress, then why shouldn't a state?'," said Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Chuck Grassley. AP These 5 players could be the Anderson-area football player of the year EAGLETON, Wis. Joy Annette Pecha, 60, of Eagleton, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2016, at Aggies Country Living, with family and friends by her side. Joy had fought a battle with breast and lung cancer courageously for over five years. Joy was born Nov. 18, 1955, in Chippewa Falls. Joy was the daughter of Donald and Barb (Anderson) Pecha. Joy was raised, and lived in, the Eau Claire area most of her life. She was married to Jeff Wold for a period of her early life, and they shared two children together, Jason and Jacob Wold. For a period in her life she was married to Bob Seyller, and they had a daughter, Anna Seyller. Joy had worked for numerous businesses throughout the years, Sacred Heart Hospital, Menomonie Street Dental, Dr. Kuehn, Anderson McMahon Chiropractic Clinic, and Dr. Luepke, to name a few. Joy also began a floral business with special friend, Cathy Vanderheiden. She enjoyed many pets over the years, she enjoyed traveling to Alma, Cornucopia, and many different places, fishing, crocheting, and spending time with family and friends. She also loved her flower beds and birds. Joy touched the lives of many people at Aggies Country Living, including residents, families, and staff. She was always helping other residents, and made many friends, including the dog, Holly. Throughout her courageous battle with cancer she always maintained a positive attitude, and outlook on life. She will be forever be remembered by her beautiful smile, contagious laugh, and admirable personality. Joy is survived by her sons, Jason Wold of Fall Creek, Jacob Wold of Mich.; daughter, Anna Seyller of Saint Louis Park, Minn.; brothers Paul (Cheryl) Pecha of Mondovi, Jake Pecha of Almena; grandchildren, Sebastian (Allysha) Wold, Shayna Allen, Tyler and Seth Wold; and great-grandchildren, Jacob and Emeri Wold. Joy was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Barbara Pecha; sister, Pamela Skinner of Barron; foster parents, Ben and Pat Ender of Fla; and special family friend, Beaty Yeager. A celebration of life will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 9, at Eagle Point Town Hall, 14802 WI-124, Chippewa Falls, 54729. Come join us for some food and fellowship. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Aggies Country Living. A special thank you to Sheena Fransway and her staff, at Aggies, for the loving and kind care they gave Joy. And to the friends who helped Joy out during these times, Sheena Fransway, Cathy Vanderheiden, Emilee Beaudette, Sandy Finseth, Jeff and Judy Wold. Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com. Prevent Unauthorized Transactions in your demat / trading account Update your Mobile Number/ email Id with your stock broker / Depository Participant. 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The site provides comprehensive and real time information on Indian corporates, sectors, financial markets and economy. On the site we feature industry and political leaders, entrepreneurs, and trend setters. The research, personal finance and market tutorial sections are widely followed by students, academia, corporates and investors among others. Republicans face a very difficult Senate map this year, and when you combine that with the fact that Donald Trump is their presidential nominee, its clear a Senate majority is very attainable for Democrats. If you needed confirmation of that, here it is. A key super PAC tasked with defending Republicans Senate majority has reserved nearly $40 million in ad time in the fall. The Senate Leadership Fund announced the following ad buys in a press release Tuesday afternoon: New Hampshire $15.8 million (4 weeks in September; 2 week s in October) (this buy in concert with a New Hampshire super PAC) Ohio $8.1 million (2 weeks in September; 2 weeks in October) Nevada $6 million ( 3 week s in September; 3 weeks in October) Pennsylvania $6.2 million (3 weeks in October) Missouri $2.5 million ( 3 week s in September) The group also said in the release that it plans to reserve ad time in the coming weeks in a sixth state, Florida, where Florida Sen. Marco Rubio just opted to seek re-election, and possibly other states. These are merely ad reservations, which can be canceled at any time. But they are generally a good preview of where those most closely involved in the races see the real battlegrounds shaping up. And whats notable on this list is not so much the races that are included, but those that arent. Specifically, the group isnt yet reserving any ad time for Sen. Mark Kirk in Illinois or Sen. Ron Johnson in Wisconsin. Similarly, ad reservations placed by Senate Republicans official campaign arm the National Republican Senatorial Committee in April focused on many of the same states: New Hampshire, Ohio, Nevada (the one offensive opportunity on the list) and Pennsylvania. The NRSC did reserve some ad time in Wisconsin, but the small $2 million reservation there was only about one-third the size of its others. It did not reserve time in Illinois. At the time, both Senate Republicans and Senate Democrats focused their ad buys on swing states where it would be much more expensive to purchase time later in the campaign when the presidential campaigns start buying up time. In that way, leaving off Illinois and shortchanging Wisconsin (which was contested in 2012 but has long been blue), could be seen simply as Republicans not needing to buy up time this early. But its also clear that these are two incumbents facing very tough races, and its not clear that Republicans see them as worthwhile investments at this early juncture especially with their majority increasingly in doubt by virtue of Trumps nomination. Whats more, the fact that the Senate Leadership Fund is reserving time for Sen. Roy Blunt in Missouri a second-tier Democratic target rather than Wisconsin (which Trump might try to win) suggests an even more defensive posture. Potentially conceding one or even two states, of course, would not be ideal for Republicans. They can afford to lose four seats or five if they can pick off a Democratic seat in Nevada. But once Republicans lose a net of four seats, they would lose control of the Senate assuming Hillary Clinton wins the presidential election at the same time. (For what its worth, its unlikely the GOP would lose four Senate seats if Trump were winning the presidency, so four is really the magic number here.) Conceding half the seats Democrats would need might not seem like a great strategy, but its possible they might simply be too hard to defend. Kirk, after all, is seeking re-election in a state that has voted double-digits for Democrats in every presidential election since 1988, and multiple polls already have shown Johnson trailing by double digits in his rematch with former senator Russ Feingold, a Democrat who served three previous terms. Again, Republicans could jump into these races whole-hog at any point, but it will get more expensive as things move forward, and the fact that they havent yet is notable. Whether they do or dont in the future, their ad reservations will tell the tale. The new owners of EBONY magazine and JETMag.com emerged on June 21, unveiling their plans for the iconic Black publications. Recently, a story published on EBONY.com described Clear View Group LLC. (CVG), the company that purchased Johnsons magazines, as a Black-owned investment firm based in Austin, Texas led by Michael Gibson and Willard Jackson, the chairman and vice chairman, respectively. The partners started the firm in 2015. In the story, Gibson said purchasing the two publications was a no-brainer. The new owners said EBONY, EBONY.com and JETMag.com will be part of the newly formed group called the Ebony Media Company (EMC). Johnson Publishing Company Chairman Linda Johnson Rice will serve as chairman emeritus of EMC. Kyra Kyles, who led EBONYs digital operations, will be the magazines editor-in-chief and senior vice president of digital editorial. CVG purchased the Johnson publications in May for an undisclosed price. Columbia College Chicago bought the Johnson Publishing Company building for $8 million in 2010. College officials ditched plans to renovate the building and recently announced they will put the 11-story property up for sale. Ebonys always been a part of our families, so it had always been an attraction, Gibson said in the EBONY.com story. But this opportunity was introduced to usand it didnt take us very long to make a decision that this was something unique; its the most iconic image in the African-American community, and its a platform that we think is really important for us and all of our community. Given the new ownership team, some former employees and fans believe Ebony wont be the same. With little to no media experience and EBONYs financial woes, there is also concern that restoring the magazine will be too difficult in a tough industry where advertising dollars have been declining for years. In 2005, the National Association for Law Placement released a report that revealed only one in five minority associates last five years at a law firm. Given this gruesome statistic, not all minorities have left the field of law due to racial and gender discrimination in the workplace. On June 30, the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper will host its first Golden Laurel Professional Reception, an event honoring eight minority professionals who have exhibited excellence in the field of law. Held at the Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council office, located at 2126 N. Meridian Street, a networking reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. and an awards presentation will follow at 6 p.m. People of color who work in the law field have greatly impacted the fabric of this nation and of this city. Locally, we have been blessed to have several pioneers in this field, and it is our honor to recognize them for their contributions, said Recorder President Shannon Williams. The event is presented in partnership with Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council and sponsored by the law offices of Lewis Wagner and Ice Miller. The Golden Laurel Professional Reception is another extension of the Recorders effort to recognize the true heroes in our community those who advocate for others and use their platforms for the greater good, said Recorder Marketing Manager Ebony Chappel. Admission to the Golden Laurel Professional Reception is free of charge, but RSVPs are strongly encouraged. This is a 21 and over event and the attire is business professional. To RSVP, please visit goldenlaurellaw.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Ebony Chappel at (317) 762-7851 or via email at ebonyc@indianapolisrecorder.com. 2016 Golden Laurel award recipients: Kimberly S. Adams (Hall, Render, Killian, Heath & Lyman) Natalie Chavis (Chavis & Chavis) Stefanie Crawford (Lewis Wagner) Lacy M. Johnson (Ice Miller) Jimmie L. McMillian (Indianapolis Motor Speedway) Hon. Tanya M. Walton Pratt (United States District Court) Roberts & Bishop: Attorneys at Law 1. Cast of Sarabhai v/s Sarabhai reunited and yes, season 2 might be on the cards. Director JD too told media that the cast will be reuniting for an exciting project. He said, HmmIt is not decided. I dont think it will be a sequel or its too early to comment. What we have decided is the team is going to come together for a new project for sure. Now, I have spoken a lot for the time being." 2. Rajinikanth's Kabali ties up with one of the biggest airlines for promotions. #Kabali Flight. Vera level mass for #Thalaivar #Superstar #Rajinikanth A photo posted by RBSI RAJINI (@rbsirajini) on Jun 29, 2016 at 9:22am PDT AirAsia India unveiled the re-branded aircraft that has been dedicated to Kabali. As part of a unique promotional strategy, AirAsia also also launched a social media contest asking Rajni fans to post their Kabali style video on their official Facebook page. 3. Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt attends the Coldplay concert in Berlin. Straight from #Berlin! #DeepikaPadukone and #AliaBhatt enjoying the #Coldplay concert with industry friends. A photo posted by Filmfare (@filmfare) on Jun 30, 2016 at 4:16am PDT Pictures of Deepika and Alia posing together at the Coldplay concert is winning the internet right now. 4. After Shirish Kunder's 'Kriti,' 'BOB' too removed from YouTube. Kunder's team is all set to file a defamation suit against the Nepali Filmmaker. Watch this film guys #very well directed by #shirishkunder Short and interesting story Here is the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5GGKuK3iEI&feature=youtu.be A photo posted by Gautam Gulati (@welcometogauthamcity) on Jun 22, 2016 at 7:58am PDT And now the producers of the short film 'Kriti' are all set to file a defamation suit against Nepali filmmaker Aneel Neupane, who claimed that Shirish Kunder's short movie 'Kriti' is a copy of his film 'Bob'. 5. Sharmila Tagore, Frieda Pinto and Deepa Mehta invited by Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to be its new members Legendary Indian actress Sharmila Tagore, 'Slumdog Millionaire' star Freida Pinto and director Deepa Mehta are among the Indian-origin film personalities, who have been invited by the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to be its members. Oscar winner Meryl Streep and Indian-origin Hollywood actress Freida Pinto joined Americas First Lady Michelle Obama to help promote education among young girls in Morocco. Streep, 67, was in Marrakesh to talk about the importance of education with high schoolers. This was as part of Mrs. Obamas Let Girls Learn initiative that inspires and encourages female education and empowerment. According to a report in People magazine, Streep revealed that she was the first person in her family to attend university shared her wisdom and inspired the teens to never give up on their goals, even if they face inevitable challenges. Streep added: Every single persons story is different. In my own life I know that losing heart is the most dangerous thing. You can put any obstacle in front of me and I will jump over it, but when you lose heart, you lose everything. If Mrs. Obama asked me to road trip anywhere in the world I would say, Im there in five minutes. With her was Slumdog Millionaire actress Freida, who too gave her piece of mind to make sure she encourages the females to not be afraid to speak their minds. She said: Its important for girls to be able to stand their ground. Its important for you to not be shy to raise your voices. (With agency inputs) Back in August 2009, Sonu, a six-year-old young boy was abducted from Delhi by a Bangladeshi lady. It was breakfast time. Sonu's mechanic father and mother spent days looking for him throughout the semi-permanent colony they lived in, they filed an FIR but then later as it happens in the case of many missing kids who come from well-to-do homes everyone gave up on Sonu. Everyone other than he himself and his real life Bajrangi Bhaijaan - Jamal. Turns out Sonu was abducted by a Bangladeshi woman who was known to his parents and lived nearby and carried back to Bangladesh. She abused him, subjected him to hard labour and a heinous list of horrors no Six-year-old should ever have to undergo. Till one day Jamal, a Bangladeshi national saw the torture the child was being subjected to and decided to do something about it. What followed next was a series of twists, turns and constant hardships for both Jamal and Sonu. Earlier today Sonu who has now turned 13 flew back home after a DNA test established he was actually the missing child at the initiative of the MEA. Jamal Musa How did Sonu get discovered? Like Salman Khan stars as Bajrangi in the movie embarks on taking a mute six-year-old Pakistani girl (Malhotra), separated in India from her parents, back to her hometown in Pakistan, a Bangladeshi citizen Jamal Ibn Musa made possible the reunion of the boy with his parents when he saw a small boy in his village near Dhaka being brutalised by a woman for whom the child worked. One day, Jamal somehow got in touch with the boy who narrated the ordeal in the brief meeting. Sonu told Jamal that he has been abducted by the lady from New Delhi, his father is a motor mechanic and his house is located near a mosque in Seemapuri. The Bajrangi Bhaijan travelled to India and contacted the boys parents, Sonus aunt Pooja Sharma told Indiatimes. Sonu's Parents Sonus father Mehboob and Jamal contacted the police as well as a news channel which helped them and the matter was referred to the MEA, which acted promptly and alerted the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and provided with the details of the case. Subsequently, the child was rescued by the police there and sent to a children's shelter home in Jessore. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj wrote in a series of tweets on Tuesday night, Sonu who was kidnapped from Delhi was found in a shelter home in Bangladesh. We matched the DNA with his mother. The test is positive./1 Indian High Commission in Dhaka has obtained Sonus custody. He will reach Delhi on 30th June. /2 I thank all those who looked after our young citizen in Bangladesh./3 Sonu Now/Sonu Then How was he kidnapped? The boy, then six years old, was abducted on the morning of August 2009 from his two-room house at E-block in New Seemapuri allegedly by a Bangladeshi lady who was known to the family. After Sonus abduction, the woman also never showed up again, claimed Pooja. When Sonus mother Madhuri could not find her son at breakfast time, a search for him began but he was untraceable. An FIR was lodged with the local police, but the cops could not achieve any breakthrough in the case after a month-long search because Mehboobs family failed to provide any details about the suspected womans identity and finally declared the boy untraceable. The case was closed presuming Sonu to be dead and the family moved on with passage of time. Seemapuri Locality Mehboob received a call on May 18 and the caller Musa Jamal described the boy. Musa told me I found your son. He is alive. He described my sons physical appearance. I could not believe my ears. He will forever be an angel for me, said Mehboob adding that it was unimaginable that a stranger from Bangladesh could go ahead extra miles to reunite us. What did Jamal find in return? He lost his job and spent a month behind bars after Sonus abductor registered false cases against him when she realised that he had come to know about Sonu. But he did not give up his efforts to have Sonu repatriated. Mehboob and Madhuri also spoke to Sonu over the phone last month after learning about his location from Jamal. While Mehboob is a resident of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh, his wife belongs to Dumdum in Kolakata. The couple has been living in the sprawling lower class colony of the East Delhi locality for more than a decade. The area is majorly resided by Bangla-speaking people. Meanwhile, locals have planned celebrations on Sonus return. They say Sonus birthday, which used to be observed as a day of mourning ever since he went missing will now be a day of joy and celebrations. Calling Salman's rape comment callous and condemnable, NCW had issued Salman a notice last week, giving him seven days to reply. While the world reacted and social media got divided into two, Salman Khan did not give a flying F***! Instagram Salman Khan had sent a letter to the panel yesterday through his lawyer stating that the case is already being heard by the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the matter cannot be heard simultaneously at two places. The letter that was sent by Salman's team to the panel on Tuesday through his lawyer stated that since the case is already being heard by the National Commission for Women (NCW), the matter cannot be heard simultaneously at two places. The NCW chief had earlier said that if the actor did not give a satisfactory reply then he could be asked to appear before the Commission. After considering his response, the panel expressed displeasure over the actors argument. In a media statement, MSCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said: "The Commission and its members today went through the letter given by the actor and we found it unsatisfactory. The letter says that case is already being heard by NCW and henceforth it would tantamount to a case of double zero party. But we are of the view that our state commission has been conferred with concurrent powers and the case can be heard at both the places simultaneously. We have rejected his contention that this as an example of double jeopardy .Double jeopardy applies to the fact that a person cannot be punished twice for the same crime, not that the case cannot be taken up by two different authorities. The NCW and MSWC have concurrent rights. Salman is a resident of Maharashtra so we certainly have the right to process the matter Salman clearly is in no mood to apologize and therefore after he failed to turn up today, the Maharashtra State Commission for Women (MSCW) has now appeared a fresh summon to Salman Khan, asking him to appear before it on July 7 over his rape remarks The notice initially summoned him on July 7 but since the festival of Eid ul' Fitr might occur on this day, Mahila Aayog may revise the date. (With agency inputs) 3 June 2016 Proved to be a Very Special Day for World Priest Apostolate NEW YORK, June 30, 2016 / The event took on an even greater significance this year when the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization in Rome agreed that the Annual Global Rosary Relay for the sanctification of Priests would close the three-day Jubilee for Priests at 6p.m. in St Peter's Square on 3 June (actually on the steps of St Peter's Basilica) with the president of the council leading the rosary on that day. Council official Rev. Geno Sylva STD introduced the Rosary Relay for Priests, informing the gathering that the rosary relay was coming to Rome from the designated shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary, Haverstock Hill in London, England, and then continuing on to the next shrine at the Sanctuary of the Holy Family Centre in Trinidad. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the first President of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization marked the Rosary Relay for Priests as an official Vatican event and prayed the first sorrowful mystery. A number of priests from around the world then recited the following mysteries in Latin, introducing each mystery with a short reflection in various languages. At the end of the rosary the archbishop lead the conclusion and blessing, including a prayer for Pope Francis and the singing of the Salve Regina. For World Priest founder Marion Mulhall 3 June 2016 was a day to be treasured forever. On that day a great blessing and honour was bestowed on her and her apostolate in supporting our priests over many years when she personally met the Holy Father following the Pontifical Mass at the conclusion of the three-day Jubilee for Priests, to which Marion had been invited. Unknown to her it had been arranged for Pope Francis to receive her in St Peter's Square, where he took her hand and embraced her warmly. "I was totally taken by surprise by this recognition and honour," says Marion. "To me it was a great affirmation and blessing from Our Lady, especially on Rosary Relay Day, and I was overcome with joy by the opportunity to meet the Holy Father in person. I wonder how this meeting will enhance our apostolate in the future? What blessings will be bestowed upon World Priest in the years ahead? I can still hardly believe this has happened and that our apostolate in support of priests has received such supreme recognition and blessing. This day will live with me for the rest of my life, inspiring me to work with even greater enthusiasm and dedication for a vital apostolate, reassuring me that this apostolate is not only purposeful, but that it has been appreciated at the highest level within the Catholic Church." Email: Contact Website: Share Tweet Contact: Marion Mulhall or James Dirroff, both with World Priest , 646-355-4106, info.worldpriest@gmail.com NEW YORK, June 30, 2016 / Christian Newswire / -- The annual Global Rosary Relay for the sanctification of priests on the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on 3 June 2016 circled the world in prayer once again, in this its seventh year, with more shrines than ever taking part in what is now recognised as a truly significant and powerful devotional initiative within the Catholic Church to recognise and bless the work of priests serving the faithful the world over.The event took on an even greater significance this year when the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization in Rome agreed that the Annual Global Rosary Relay for the sanctification of Priests would close the three-day Jubilee for Priests at 6p.m. in St Peter's Square on 3 June (actually on the steps of St Peter's Basilica) with the president of the council leading the rosary on that day.Council official Rev. Geno Sylva STD introduced the Rosary Relay for Priests, informing the gathering that the rosary relay was coming to Rome from the designated shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary, Haverstock Hill in London, England, and then continuing on to the next shrine at the Sanctuary of the Holy Family Centre in Trinidad. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the first President of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization marked the Rosary Relay for Priests as an official Vatican event and prayed the first sorrowful mystery. A number of priests from around the world then recited the following mysteries in Latin, introducing each mystery with a short reflection in various languages. At the end of the rosary the archbishop lead the conclusion and blessing, including a prayer for Pope Francis and the singing of the Salve Regina.For World Priest founder Marion Mulhall 3 June 2016 was a day to be treasured forever. On that day a great blessing and honour was bestowed on her and her apostolate in supporting our priests over many years when she personally met the Holy Father following the Pontifical Mass at the conclusion of the three-day Jubilee for Priests, to which Marion had been invited. Unknown to her it had been arranged for Pope Francis to receive her in St Peter's Square, where he took her hand and embraced her warmly. "I was totally taken by surprise by this recognition and honour," says Marion."To me it was a great affirmation and blessing from Our Lady, especially on Rosary Relay Day, and I was overcome with joy by the opportunity to meet the Holy Father in person. I wonder how this meeting will enhance our apostolate in the future? What blessings will be bestowed upon World Priest in the years ahead? I can still hardly believe this has happened and that our apostolate in support of priests has received such supreme recognition and blessing. This day will live with me for the rest of my life, inspiring me to work with even greater enthusiasm and dedication for a vital apostolate, reassuring me that this apostolate is not only purposeful, but that it has been appreciated at the highest level within the Catholic Church."Email: Contact info.worldpriest@gmail.com Website: www.worldpriest.com Instead of just filling out a form, 2016 Delhi university admissions will require aspirants to upload their academic certificates and other documents. Here are 13 documents that required during registration - though they aren't mandatory for every aspirant. Manpreet/AFP These include: 1. Class X certificate 2. Class XII certificate 3. Class X marksheet 4. Class XII marksheet 5. Scanned copy of signature 6. Recent passport size photograph 7. Character certificate issued by your school 8. Transfer and migration certificates (for aspirants who completed their schooling outside Delhi). 9. SC/ST certificate if applicable 10. OBC certificate if applicable 11. Annual income proof if applicable glsedu Thankfully, you don't need to submit anything in hard copy, ending the irritating process of getting in line at a photocopy shop. The documents need to be self-attested, and incomplete forms will be rejected. Online registration forms went live on June 1. Delhi University is the first Indian university to completely online for admissions. Am I glad I passed out at a time when scoring the bare minimum was the only purpose in life? Because I am. I really am. Delhi University's cut-offs tearing through the heavens and coming to rest at 99.25% is finally proof that students can give up hope. Hope of settling in a college of good standing. Hope of ever being in the company of the creme de la creme (the rascals who made this nonsense a reality). Hope of becoming Sharmaji ka beta. Hope of just being happy scoring that bare minimum. Indian Express And as the nation mourns this obscene display of IQ, here's how laymen reacted. When your dream was Delhi University but you only scored 99% pic.twitter.com/tDCfSsx5ed VintageBollywoodRxns (@VintageBollyRxn) May 25, 2015 Pic 1: After the board results Pic 2: After the #DelhiUniversity cut off list pic.twitter.com/LDCVmpjTNU Rashi Kakkar (@rashi_kakkar) June 30, 2016 ISRO launches special missile to help students reach Delhi University's cutoff zone https://t.co/OWUGwuBAIu Rahul Roushan (@rahulroushan) June 30, 2016 Students burning their 12th mark sheet after seeing the #DelhiUniversity cut off list. pic.twitter.com/mZvqr1p4ut Rashi Kakkar (@rashi_kakkar) June 30, 2016 Pic 1: Mom after CBSE result. Pic 2: Mom after #DelhiUniversity cut off . pic.twitter.com/cdcVrqL7Ir Super Commando Dhruv (@Eaglesiar) June 30, 2016 Hope is not your mistress anymore, my friend. Jharkhand Congress has accused State BJP chief Tala Marandi's son Munna Marandi of marrying a 11 year old on June 27. District Congress president (Godda) Deepika Pandey Singh told the Indian Express: "I have written to the National Commission for Women, the Governor and the SCW seeking their intervention. Based on media reports, it appears that Marandis have put in jeopardy the lives of the minor girls". vemale/ Representational Image In another case, a tribal woman has alleged that Munna had sexually exploited her on the pretext of marriage. She had also lodged complaint in Dumka. The marriage of the state BJP president's son took place in Dumka on Monday despite the compliant filed by the woman. The girl revealed how they met during poll campaigning in 2014: "Munna first saw me in 2014. Later he met me a few times. On January 1, 2016 when nobody was at home, he forced himself upon me. When I resisted, he promised marriage", girl said. cfr.org/ Representatioanl Image Gods own country has a drug problem. Kochi, Kerala's commercial capital, ranks number 3 on the list of Indian cities with a heavy drug addiction "Kerala may find itself in the same position as that of Punjab in the next five years as far as drug abuse and trafficking are concerned, if stringent and effective measures are not taken to control the menace," said Kerala Excise Commissioner Rishiraj Singh. ET Last year, erstwhile Kerala home minister Ramesh Chennithala noted that the states move towards prohibition had the state even fonder of getting high. A three-fold spike in drug abuse was reported after 700 hotels were forced to shut down their bars. A year before, Kerala restricted the sale of liquor to five-star hotels, in a bid to slowly phase out alcohol by the end of the decade. Every single day, 1 or more cases are reported The district crime records bureau (DCRB) said that the city police had registered 150 cases under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act between January and April 2015. AFP However, the main concern of police is the entry of high-end drugs like cocaine, LSD and MDMA in city. "Night parties came under police radar based on intelligence input that the use of high-end drugs is rampant at such events. The recent seizure of ketamine, ganja and a packaged narcotic substance is our proof," said an officer. Who is bringing in the drugs? According to Chennithala, Maoists were indulging in 'narco terrorism' and promoting cultivation of ganja plants. "They are using that money for terrorist activities." He also pointed out that psychotropic substances were freely available in medical stores. "Of the 234 psychotropic medications, 228 are freely available in the medical shops," said Chennithala. BCCL A police officer also blamed drugs coming into Kochi from other cities: "The flow of drugs from other cities cannot be controlled by city police enforcing the law. Zero enforcement in cities like Goa is affecting enforcement activities in cities like Kochi, Bengaluru and Chennai. Persons held with high-end drugs have admitted that the substances were primarily sourced from Goa," he said. Kerala's homemade high The move towards total prohibition has given rise to a fast-growing parallel market for its substitutes ranging from illicit brews and adulterated toddy to narcotics and even Ayurveda medicines containing alcohol. AFP With many ayurvedic drug manufacturers increasing the alcohol content in arishtam, a herbal concoction, from less than 12% to about 25%-30%, several 'dawa' points across the state are fast becoming 'daaru' points. According to Dr D Ramanathan, secretary at Ayurveda Medicine Manufacturers Association of India, 10% of the state's ayurvedic drug manufacturing units are manufacturing stronger arishtams for tipplers. BCCL The number of narcotic cases registered by the excise department has increased substantially in recent months. Contraband seized recently include ganja, ganja paste, ampoules of drugs that can be injected and brown sugar. Getting inebriated is in Keralas blood 25% of all hospital admissions, and 69% of all crimes in Kerala caused by intoxication, according to Alcohol and Drug Information Centre, an NGO. In 2013, it was reported that incompetent police and drug control department have led to drug peddlers distributing illegal tranquilizer drugs among school and college students. AFP "School-college students are the major consumers of psychotropic substances and tranquilizers," said Jaleel Thottathil, sub-inspector of Medical College Circle. They prefer such drugs as they can easily hide it in their school bags and pockets, he said. healtclub The psychotropic drugs usually sold only on prescription in Kerala are purchased from other states and distributed among students, said police. While the actual price of the tablet is Rs 33, the dealers charge up to Rs 350. Possibility of under-the-counter deals between pharmacists and drug peddlers is also under investigation. How dealers get kids hooked The drug peddlers find their 'customers' by offering them tablets for free for a few days, said officials. Later these students will be forced to pay money and even forced to trap his friends to get the tablets from the drug pusher, they said. While the CJI, TS Thakur, is yet to deliberate upon the larger rights of the LGBTQ community in India, the Supreme Court in another case on Thursday said that that gays, lesbians, and bisexuals will not be considered as third gender. The transgender community alone should be given minority rights in India This will eliminate gays and lesbians from the sexual minority status lent to them in the 2014 ruling by the SC which recognised the transgender community as the third gender along with males and females. SC had said eunuchs, apart from the binary gender, be treated as a third gender to safeguard their rights under the Indian Constitution. The Supreme Court also flayed the central government for delay in giving reservation to transgenders, even as activists said it is important to decide who is a transgender person by a competent body. BCCL Journalist Sunil Mehra is part of the latest petition to be filed in the SC regarding the rights of the LGBTQ community along with partner Navtej Singh Johar, chef Ritu Dalmia hotelier Aman Nath and business executive Ayesha Kapur. "We are taking baby steps towards a logical solution to the issue. I believe that India is far more intelligent than an outdated laws which even the British have shunned," Mehra told Indiatimes. "We are not looking for confrontation and have complete faith in the judiciary. The India judiciary have made landmark decisions in the past and is quite the lighthouse for us," he said. Hopeful about the CJI's decision, he says, "We will play it by the ear for now. The petition has been admitted and that has opened a new dimension for us. We would like to see what view the Judiciary will take and tweak our views accordingly." BCCL The United Nations is taking a landmark decision today as well. Six Latin American nations -- Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Uruguay -- together have proposed the creation of the post of a UN Independent Expert, whose job it will be to address human rights violations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity under the United Nations. This expert will answer to United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), which consists of 47 countries. The vote on whether this post will be instituted happens was slated for June 30. However, the decision has not been announced. The US led coalition which is stepping up their crackdown on ISIS in Iraq have reportedly dealt a massive blow to the dreaded terror outfit. Iraq Defence Ministry The coalition air strikes around the city of Fallujah, one of the places where a fierce battle is taking place, have left around 250 ISIS fighters dead, Reuters news agency quoting US officials reported. The attack which also reportedly destroyed 40 vehicles, is among the most deadly coalition strikes ever launched against ISIS and will help solidify significant coalition gains. Iraq Defence Ministry Fallujah,a stronghold of ISIS was among one of the first cities in Iraq which fell to the terror group in 2014. It also came at a time when the Iraqi forces backed by local militia groups and US air power claimed that they have liberated the city from ISIS. It is also reported that the target of the attack were ISIS fighters who were trying to flee Fallujah after it was retaken by pro-government forces. Reuters Meanwhile, US-backed Syrian rebels were pushed back from the outskirts of an Islamic State-held town on the border with Iraq and a nearby air base on Wednesday after the jihadists mounted a counter- attack. The Illustrated NABRE, Children's Bible -- Finally, a 'Text Book' that can be Studied or Read for Enjoyment Contact: Keith Neely, 574-271-7978, GRANGER, Ind., June 30, 2016 / The interactive illustrations are not just decoration but they illuminate, interpret and guide the reader so that anyone can follow, understand and remember what is read. You will be amazed to see those who would never open a Bible before, grow to really enjoy reading this History of our faith and grow in its wisdom and truth. We invite you to see for yourself and download the complete Gospel of Matthew (211 pages) for $1.97 from our website: Share Tweet Contact: Keith Neely, 574-271-7978, KeithRNeely@comcast.net GRANGER, Ind., June 30, 2016 / Christian Newswire / -- The New Testament of this 13 e-Book series, is completed (The Old Testament and printed version will follow). This Illustrated Holy Bible, NABRE, The New American Bible Revised Edition combines accurate Bible text with 7,500 interactive illustrations, chapter and verse numbers, subheads, word and phrase search, navigation aids like a visual thumbnail and a title, subject, chapter and page number, one click indexes, with all the footnotes under the Canonical Approval of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington DC, which insures the reader that this Bible is accurate and Catholic.The interactive illustrations are not just decoration but they illuminate, interpret and guide the reader so that anyone can follow, understand and remember what is read. You will be amazed to see those who would never open a Bible before, grow to really enjoy reading this History of our faith and grow in its wisdom and truth.We invite you to see for yourself and download the complete Gospel of Matthew (211 pages) for $1.97 from our website: www.FREEillustratedBIBLE.com (store page under "NAB") For a free copy contact Keith Neely personally at KeithRNeely@comcast.net Were excited to announce that indmin.com is now part of fastmarkets.com. A new look and an improved experience means you can still stay ahead of this fast-moving market with price data, news and market intelligence right here on Fastmarkets. Discover more than 2000 prices, news and analysis in primary and secondary metals markets. We cover base metals, industrial minerals, ores and alloys, steel, scrap and steel raw materials. If you already have a Fastmarkets account, youll still have uninterrupted access to your markets by logging in with your current details. Is Brexit Good for Israel? By Ramzy Baroud June 30, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " Middle East Monitor "- After months of anticipation, the United Kingdom has decided to leave the European Union (EU). Although, the results were fairly close 51.9% voted to Leave vs. 48.1% elected to Remain the consequences of the decision will be far-reaching. Not only will the Brits negotiate their exit from the EU (thus, the term Brexit) within the next two years, but the decision is likely to usher in an upheaval unwitnessed before in EU history. But is it good for Palestine? In the shadow of the so-called Brexit debate, a whole different discussion has been taking place: is Brexit good for Israel, or as an Israeli commentator, Carlo Strenger phrased it in the Israeli daily, Haaretz: what does (Brexit) mean for the Jews? In a last minute pandering for votes, British Prime Minister, David Cameron who, to his credit, had the dignity to resign after the vote made a passionate appeal before a Jewish audience on Monday, June 20. He told the Israel supporters in the Charity, Jewish Care, that staying in the EU is actually good for Israel. He presented his country as if the safeguard of Israeli interests at the Union. The gist of his message was: Britain has kept a watchful eye on Brussels and has thwarted any discussion that may be seen as hostile towards the Jewish state. When Europe is discussing its attitude towards Israel, do you want Britain Israels greatest friend in there opposing boycotts, opposing the campaign for divestment and sanctions, or do you want us outside the room, powerless to affect the discussion that takes place? he told the largely Jewish audience. Predictably, Cameron brought Iran into his reasoning, vowing that, if Britain remained in the EU, his country would be in a stronger position to stop Iran (from) getting nuclear weapons. While the Leave campaign was strongly censured for unethically using fear-mongering to dissuade voters, Camerons comments before Jewish Care which were an extreme and barefaced example of fear-mongering and manipulation of Israels so-called existentialist threats received little coverage in the media. Indeed, Britain has played that dreadful role for decades, muting any serious discussion on Israel and Palestine, and ensuring more courageous voices like that of Sweden, for example, are offset with the ardently and unconditionally pro-Israel sentiment constantly radiating from Westminster. Who can forget Camerons impassionate defense of Israels last war on Gaza on 2014, which killed over 2,200 mostly Palestinian civilians? Unequivocally, Cameron, along with his Conservative Party, has been a staunch ally of (Israeli) Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, as described by Israeli commentator Raphael Ahren, writing in the Times of Israel. His love for Israel can also be more appreciated when compared to, also according to Ahren, current head of the Labour party, Jeremy Corbyn who is a harsh critic of Israel and has called Israels arch-foes Hamas and Hezbollah our friends. Since Corbyn was elected to the helm of the Labor Party with a landslide victory in September of last year, an apparently manufactured controversy alleging rampant anti-Semitism within Labor has taken away from the partys attempt to refocus its energies on challenging the Conservatives neoliberal policies, and slowing down the momentum of the ultra-right Independence Party of Nigel Farage. That contrived crisis was largely the work of the Israel lobby in the UK, per the assessment of investigative journalist, Asa Winstanley. It was a witch-hunt that reached an unprecedented degree of incongruity. It has reached such an absurd volume that any usage of the word Zionist is deemed to be anti-Semitic, he wrote, although, tellingly, not when used by self-described Zionists. Indeed, many members of Labor were either themselves involved in that witch-hunt or succumbed to its pressure, taking outrageous steps to defend against the unwarranted accusations. As a result, the embattled and disorganized Labor, too, urged its supporters to stay in the EU and they, too, lost the vote. As for Israel, Brexit meant uncertainty and also opportunity. The EU is Israels largest trade partner, and an economically weaker Union is destined to translate to less trade with Israel, thus financial losses. But Israel has also been sharply critical of the EU, with Israeli leaders making all sorts of accusations against supposed European anti-Semitism, and with Netanyahu himself calling for mass emigration of European Jewry to Israel. Part of the reason why Tel Aviv has been fuming at the EU is the nuclear agreement with Iran, in which the EU is a co-signatory. The other reason is a decision last November by the EU to impose new regulations on products made in Jewish settlements built illegally on Palestinian land. According to the new guidelines, goods produced in these settlements must be labeled made in settlements, a decision that further strengthened calls throughout Europe for boycotting Israel altogether. That decision, and others, increasingly made the EU appear as an untrustworthy ally to Israel; and precisely because of that, David Cameron desperately tried to sell himself at the last minute before the vote as the vanguard against other allegedly unruly EU members who refuse to play by the well-established rules. Yet, interestingly, one of the loudest, and also fear-mongering groups that campaigned for Britain to exit the EU is Regavim, a right-wing NGO that advocates on behalf of the illegal Jewish settlements in the Occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. Unsurprisingly, Regavim used scare tactics by pushing a Palestinian bogeyman into the midst of Britains historical debate. Its campaign included a mock video of a masked Palestinian fighter purportedly from the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip, urging UK citizens to remain in the European Union because it supports the Palestinians, reported Al-Monitor. According to Regavims Meir Deutsch, the organizations aim was to harm the EU over its intervention in the internal conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. Now that, according to Deutschs ruthless logic, the EU is duly harmed, Israel is seeking another bulwark in the European Union to defend its interests. Israeli analyst, Sharon Pardo , while regretting the loss of a friend in the Union, asserted that such a loss is not a catastrophe, for the likes of Germany and the Czech Republic are even friendlier than Britain. Israel is particularly concerned about its status within the EUs Foreign Affairs Council, now that the UK is leaving. Germany has good chances of taking the lead here and the fact that Germany is a close ally of Israel will clearly have implications, according to Pardo, who added, Germany is the responsible adult here. While Israel is likely to move fast to ensure its interests, both financial and political, are protected following Brexit, the Palestinian Authority is likely to move much slower and without a decisive, centralized strategy. The UKs departure from the EU might not have an immediate impact on the conflict in Palestine, especially during the coming months of projected upheaval, negotiations and transition; however, it could still offer Palestinians an opportunity for the future. While pressure must continue to be applied on Westminster to end its unconditional backing of Israel, a possibly friendlier EU without the staunchly pro-Israel Britain, may emerge. The UKs support for Israel in the Union, and the backing of all American steps in the same direction, has seriously hampered the EUs chances of being anything but a rubberstamp to US-UK policies not only in Palestine but also throughout the Middle East. While it is too early to make any significant political forecast following Brexit, one can only hope that the efforts of pro-peace countries such as Ireland and Sweden will be strengthened, and that more such friendly nations will join to rein in Israel for its military occupation and demand justice for Palestine. Dr. Ramzy Baroud has been writing about the Middle East for over 20 years. He is an internationally-syndicated columnist, a media consultant, an author of several books and the founder of PalestineChronicle.com . His books include Searching Jenin, The Second Palestinian Intifada and his latest My Father Was a Freedom Fighter: Gazas Untold Story. His website is www.ramzybaroud.net. Clinton: Destroy Syria for Israel By TNO Staff June 30, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " New Observer "- A newly-released Hilary Clinton email confirmed that the Obama administration has deliberately provoked the civil war in Syria as the best way to help Israel. In an indication of her murderous and psychopathic nature, Clinton also wrote that it was the right thing to personally threaten Bashar Assads family with death. In the email, released by Wikileaks, then Secretary of State Clinton says that the best way to help Israel is to use force in Syria to overthrow the government. The document was one of many unclassified by the US Department of State under case number F-2014-20439, Doc No. C05794498 , following the uproar over Clintons private email server kept at her house while she served as Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013. Although the Wikileaks transcript dates the email as December 31, 2000, this is an error on their part, as the contents of the email (in particular the reference to May 2012 talks between Iran and the west over its nuclear program in Istanbul) show that the email was in fact sent on December 31, 2012. The email makes it clear that it has been US policy from the very beginning to violently overthrow the Syrian governmentand specifically to do this because it is in Israels interests. The best way to help Israel deal with Irans growing nuclear capability is to help the people of Syria overthrow the regime of Bashar Assad, Clinton forthrightly starts off by saying. Even though all US intelligence reports had long dismissed Irans atom bomb program as a hoax (a conclusion supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency), Clinton continues to use these lies to justify destroying Syria in the name of Israel. She specifically links Irans mythical atom bomb program to Syria because, she says, Irans atom bomb program threatens Israels monopoly on nuclear weapons in the Middle East. If Iran were to acquire a nuclear weapon, Clinton asserts, this would allow Syria (and other adversaries of Israel such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt) to go nuclear as well, all of which would threaten Israels interests. Therefore, Clinton, says, Syria has to be destroyed. Irans nuclear program and Syrias civil war may seem unconnected, but they are. What Israeli military leaders really worry about but cannot talk about is losing their nuclear monopoly. An Iranian nuclear weapons capability would not only end that nuclear monopoly but could also prompt other adversaries, like Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to go nuclear as well. The result would be a precarious nuclear balance in which Israel could not respond to provocations with conventional military strikes on Syria and Lebanon, as it can today. If Iran were to reach the threshold of a nuclear weapons state, Tehran would find it much easier to call on its allies in Syria and Hezbollah to strike Israel, knowing that its nuclear weapons would serve as a deterrent to Israel responding against Iran itself. It is, Clinton continues, the strategic relationship between Iran and the regime of Bashar Assad in Syria that makes it possible for Iran to undermine Israels security. This would not come about through a direct attack, Clinton admits, because in the thirty years of hostility between Iran and Israel this has never occurred, but through its alleged proxies. The end of the Assad regime would end this dangerous alliance. Israels leadership understands well why defeating Assad is now in its interests. Bringing down Assad would not only be a massive boon to Israels security, it would also ease Israels understandable fear of losing its nuclear monopoly. Then, Israel and the United States might be able to develop a common view of when the Iranian program is so dangerous that military action could be warranted. Clinton goes on to asset that directly threatening Bashar Assad and his family with violence is the right thing to do: In short, the White House can ease the tension that has developed with Israel over Iran by doing the right thing in Syria. With his life and his family at risk, only the threat or use of force will change the Syrian dictator Bashar Assads mind. The email provesas if any more proof was neededthat the US government has been the main sponsor of the growth of terrorism in the Middle East, and all in order to protect Israel. It is also a sobering thought to consider that the refugee crisis which currently threatens to destroy Europe, was directly sparked off by this US government action as well, insofar as there are any genuine refugees fleeing the civil war in Syria. In addition, over 250,000 people have been killed in the Syrian conflict, which has spread to Iraqall thanks to Clinton and the Obama administration backing the rebels and stoking the fires of war in Syria. The real and disturbing possibility that a psychopath like Clintonwhose policy has inflicted death and misery upon millions of peoplecould become the next president of America is the most deeply shocking thought of all. Clintons public assertion that, if elected president, she would take the relationship with Israel to the next level, would definitively mark her, and Israel, as the enemy of not just some Arab states in the Middle East, but of all peace-loving people on earth. Trading Places: Neocons and Cockroaches Neocons want a new Cold War all the better to pick the U.S. taxpayers pockets but this reckless talk and war profiteering could spark a nuclear war and leave the world to the cockroaches. By Robert Parry If the human species extinguishes itself in a flash of thermonuclear craziness and the surviving cockroaches later develop the intellect to assess why humans committed this mass suicide, the cockroach historians may conclude that it was our failure to hold the neoconservatives accountable in the first two decades of the Twenty-first Century that led to our demise. After the disastrous U.S.-led invasion of Iraq an aggressive war justified under false premises there rightly should have been a mass purging of the people responsible for the death, destruction and lies. Instead the culprits were largely left in place, indeed they were allowed to consolidate their control of the major Western news media and the foreign-policy establishments of the United States and its key allies. Despite the Iraq catastrophe which destabilized the Middle East and eventually Europe, the neocons and their liberal interventionist chums still filled the opinion columns of The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal and virtually every other mainstream outlet. Across the American and European political systems and think tanks, the neocons and the liberal hawks stayed dominant, too, continuing to spin their war plans while facing no significant peace movement. The cockroach historians might be amazed that at such a critical moment of existential danger, the human species at least in the most advanced nations of the West offered no significant critique of the forces leading mankind to its doom. It was as if the human species was unable to learn even the most obvious lessons needed for its own survival. Despite the falsehoods of the Iraq War, the U.S. government was still widely believed whenever it came out with a new propaganda theme. Whether it was the sarin gas attack in Syria in 2013 or the Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 shoot-down over eastern Ukraine in 2014, U.S. government assertions blaming the Syrian government and the Russian government, respectively, were widely accepted without meaningful skepticism or simple demands for basic evidence. Swallowing Propaganda Just as with the Iraqi WMD case, the major Western media made no demands for proof. They just fell in line and marched closer to the edge of global war. Indeed, the learned cockroaches might observe that the supposed watchdogs in the American press had willingly leashed themselves to the U.S. government as the two institutions moved in unison toward catastrophe. The few humans in the media who did express skepticism largely found on something called the Internet were dismissed as fill-in-the-blank apologists, much as occurred with the doubters against the Iraqi WMD case in 2002-2003. The people demanding real evidence were marginalized and those who accepted whatever the powerful said were elevated to positions of ever-greater influence. If the cockroach historians could burrow deep enough into the radioactive ashes, they might discover that on an individual level people such as Washington Post editorial page editor Fred Hiatt wasnt fired after swallowing the WMD lies whole and regurgitating them on the Posts readership; that New York Times columnist Roger Cohen and dozens of similar opinion-leaders were not unceremoniously replaced; that Hillary Clinton, a neocon in the supposedly liberal Democratic Party, was rewarded with the partys presidential nomination in 2016; and that the likes of Iraq War architect Robert Kagan remained the toast of the American capital with his opinions sought after and valued. The cockroaches might observe that humans showed little ability to adapt amid very dangerous conditions, i.e., the bristling nuclear arsenals of eight or so countries. Instead, the humans pressed toward their own doom, tagging along after guides who had proven incompetent over and over again but were still followed toward a civilization-ending precipice. These guides casually urged the masses toward the edge with sweet-sounding phrases like democracy promotion, responsibility to protect, and humanitarian wars. The same guides, who had sounded so confident about the wisdom of shock and awe in Iraq and then the regime change in Libya, pitched plans for a U.S. invasion of Syria, albeit presented as the establishment of safe zones and no-fly zones. After orchestrating a coup in Russias neighbor Ukraine, overthrowing the elected president and then sponsoring an anti-terrorism operation to kill ethnic Russian Ukrainians who objected to the coup, Western politicians and policymakers saw only Russian aggression when Moscow gave these embattled people some assistance. When citizens in Crimea voted 96 percent to separate from Ukraine and rejoin Russia, the West denounced the referendum as a sham and called it a Russian invasion. It didnt matter that opinion polls repeatedly found similar overwhelming support among the Crimean people for the change. The false narrative, insisting that Russia had instigated the Ukraine crisis, was accepted with near-universal gullibility across the West. A Moscow Regime Change Behind this fog of propaganda, U.S. and other Western officials mounted a significant NATO military build-up on Russias border, complete with large-scale military exercises practicing the seizure of Russian territory. Russian warnings against these operations were dismissed as hysterical and as further proof for the need to engineer another regime change, this time in Moscow. But first the Russian government had to be destabilized by making the economy scream. Then, the plan was for political disruptions and eventually a Ukraine-style coup to remove the thrice-elected President Vladimir Putin. The wisdom of throwing a nuclear power into economic, political and social disorder and risking that the nuclear codes might end up in truly dangerous hands was barely discussed. Even before the desired coup, the Wests neoconservatives advocated giving the Russians a bloody nose in Syria where Moscows forces had intervened at the Syrian governments request to turn back Islamic jihadists who were fighting alongside Western-backed moderate rebels. The neocon/liberal-hawk plans for no-fly zones and safe zones inside Syria required the U.S. militarys devastation of Syrian government forces and presumably the Russian air force personnel inside Syria with the Russians expected to simply take their beating and keep quiet. The cockroach historians also might note that once the neocons and their liberal interventionist sidekicks decided on one of their strategic plans at some think-tank conference or wrote it down in a report or an op-ed they were single-minded in implementing it regardless of its impracticality or recklessness. These hawks were highly skilled at spinning new propaganda themes to justify what they had decided to do. Since they dominated the major media outlets, that was fairly easy without anyone of note taking note that the talking points were simply word games. But the neocons and liberal hawks were very good at word games. Plus, these widely admired interventionists were never troubled with self-doubt whatever mayhem and death followed in their wake. So, when the decision was made to invade Iraq, Libya and Syria or to stage a coup in Ukraine or to destabilize nuclear-armed Russia, the neocons and their friends never countenanced the possibility that something could go wrong. And when setbacks and even catastrophes resulted, the messes were excused away as the failure of some politician to implement the neocon/liberal-hawk scheme to the precise letter. If only more force had been used, if only people on the ground were more competent, if only the few critics were silenced and prevented from sowing doubts about the wisdom of the plan, then it would have succeeded. It was never their fault. As the Wests new foreign-policy establishment, the neocons and their liberal helpers validated their own thoughts as brilliant and infallible. And who was there to doubt them? Who had the necessary access to the Wests mass media and who had the courage to counter their clever arguments and suffer the predictable ridicule, insults and slurs? After all, there were so many esteemed people and prestigious institutions that stamped the neocon/liberal-hawk plans with gilded seals of approval. Still, the cockroach historians might yet be puzzled by how thoroughly the worlds leadership failed the human species, particularly in the West, which prided itself in freedom of thought and diversity of opinion. So, the pressures kept building, unchecked, until perhaps accidentally amid excessive tensions or after some extreme nationalist had exploited Russias regime change chaos to seize power the final line was crossed. Extending American Power Though much of human information would likely have been lost in the nuclear firestorms that were unleashed, the cockroach historians could learn much if they could get their antennae around a 2016 report by a group called the Center for a New American Security, consisting of prominent neocons and liberal interventionists, including some expected to play high-level roles in a Hillary Clinton administration. These experts included foreign-policy stars such as Robert Kagan (formerly of the Reagan administrations State Department, a co-founder of the Project for the New American Century an early advocate for the Iraq War and later a scholar at the Brookings Institution and a Washington Post columnist), James P. Rubin (who served in Bill Clintons State Department and made a name for himself as a TV commentator), Michele Flournoy (the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy during Barack Obamas first term and touted as Hillary Clintons favorite to be Secretary of Defense), Eric Edelman (who preceded Flournoy in her Obama job except he served under George W. Bush), Stephen J. Hadley (George W. Bushs second-term national security advisor), and James Steinberg (a deputy national security advisor under Bill Clinton and Deputy Secretary of State under Secretary of State Hillary Clinton). In other words, this group, which included many other big names as well, was a whos who of whos important in Washingtons foreign-policy establishment. Their report was brazenly entitled Extending American Power and painted an idyllic picture of the world population living happily under U.S. domination in the seven decades since World War II. The world order created in the aftermath of World War II has produced immense benefits for peoples across the planet, the report asserted, ignoring periodic slaughters carried out across the Third World, from Vietnam to Latin America to Africa to the Middle East, often inflicted by the massive application of U.S. firepower and other times by tribal or religious hatreds and rivalries exacerbated by big-power interference. Also downplayed was the environmental devastation that has come with the progress of hyper-capitalism, threatening the long-term survival of human civilization via global warming assuming that nuclear winter doesnt intervene first. Even though many of these benighted experts were complicit in gross violations of international law including aggressive war in Iraq, Libya and elsewhere; lethal drone strikes in multiple countries; torture of war on terror detainees; and subversion of internationally recognized governments they deluded themselves into believing that they stood for some legalistic global structure, declaring: United States still has the military, economic, and political power to play the leading role in protecting a stable rules-based international order. Exactly what stability and what rules were left fuzzy. In line with their underlying delusions, these experts called for feeding more money into the maw of the Military-Industrial Complex and flexing American military muscle: An urgent first step is to significantly increase U.S. national security and defense spending and eliminate the budgetary strait-jacket of the Budget Control Act. A second and related step is to formulate policies that take advantage of the substantial military, economic, and diplomatic power Washington has available but has been reluctant to deploy in recent years. Battling Russia over Ukraine The bipartisan group representing what might be called Official Washingtons consensus also urged a tough stand against Russia regarding Ukraine, including military assistance to help the post-coup Ukrainian regime crush ethnic Russian resistance in the east. The United States must provide Ukrainian armed forces with the training and equipment necessary to resist Russian-backed forces and Russian forces operating on Ukrainian territory, the report said, adding as a recommendation: Underwrite credible security guarantees to NATO allies on the frontlines with Russia. Given recent Russian behavior, it is no longer possible to ignore the possible challenge to NATO countries that border Russia. The Baltics in particular are vulnerable to both direct attack and the more complicated hybrid warfare that Russia has displayed in Ukraine. To provide reassurance to U.S. allies and also to deter Russian efforts to destabilize these nations, it is necessary to build upon the European Reassurance Initiative and establish a more robust U.S. force presence in appropriate central and eastern Europe countries, which should include a mix of permanently stationed forces, rotationally deployed forces, prepositioned equipment, access arrangements and a more robust schedule of military training and exercises. The United States should also work with both NATO and the EU to counter Russian influence-peddling and subversion using corruption and illegal financial manipulation. Apparently that last point about influence-peddling was a reference to the need to silence dissident voices in the West that object to the new Cold War and dispute U.S. propaganda aimed at justifying the increased tensions with Russia. The reports Washington insiders clearly understand that their future career prospects are advanced by taking a belligerent approach toward Russia. Regarding Syria, the bipartisan group of neocons and liberal hawks urged a U.S. military invasion with the goal of establishing a no-fly zone while building up insurgent forces capable of compelling regime change in Damascus, a strategy similar to those followed in Iraq and Libya to disastrous results. In our view, there can be no political solution to the Syrian civil war so long as the military balance continues to convince [Syrian President Bashar al-] Assad he can remain in power. And as a result of Irans shock troops and military equipment deployed to Syria, and the modern aircraft and other conventional forces Russia has now deployed, the military balance tilts heavily in favor of the Assad regime, the report said. At a minimum, the inadequate efforts hitherto to arm, train, and protect a substantial Syrian opposition force must be completely overhauled and made a much higher priority. In the meantime, and in light of this grim reality, the United States, together with France and other allies, must employ the necessary military power, including an appropriately designed no-fly zone, to create a safe space in which Syrians can relocate without fear of being killed by Assads forces and where moderate opposition militias can arm, train, and organize. How a U.S.-led invasion of a sovereign country and the arming of a military force to overthrow the government fit with the groups enthusiasm for a rule-based international order is not explained. Clearly, the prescribed actions are in violation of the United Nations Charter and other international legal standards, but apparently the only real rules the group believes in are those that serve its purposes and change depending on the needs for extending American power. Similar hypocrisy pervaded the groups other recommendations, but the blind obedience to these double standards indeed the inability to see or acknowledge the blatant contradictions might be of interest to the cockroach historians because it could help them understand how the U.S. foreign policy establishment lost its mind and blundered into unnecessary conflicts that could easily escalate into strategic warfare, even thermonuclear conflagration. A Steady Drumbeat But this collection of neocons and liberal hawks wasnt just an odd group of careerist thinkers trying to impress Hillary Clinton. Their double-thinking group think extended throughout the American establishment in the second decade of the Twenty-first Century. For instance, The New York Times and other major publications were dominated by both neocon and liberal-hawk commentators, writers like Roger Cohen, who was one of the many pundits who swallowed the Iraq War lies whole and despite the disaster avoided any negative career consequences. So, in 2016, that left Cohen and his fellow Iraq War cheerleaders still pressing political leaders to expand the war in Syria and ratchet up tensions with Russia at every opportunity. In a column about the mass shooting at a gay night club in Orlando, Florida, on June 12 in which the shooter was reported to have claimed allegiance to ISIS Cohen tacked on a typically distorted account of President Obamas approach to the Syrian conflict. Ignoring that Obama had the CIA and the Pentagon covertly train and arm rebel groups seeking to overthrow the Syrian government, Cohen wrote: Yes, to have actively done nothing in Syria over more than five years of war so allowing part of the country to become an ISIS stronghold, contributing to a massive refugee crisis in Europe, acquiescing to slaughter and displacement on a devastating scale, undermining Americas word in the world, and granting open season for President Vladimir Putin to strut his stuff amounts to the greatest foreign policy failure of the Obama administration. It has made the world far more dangerous. But Cohen did not acknowledge his own role as a brash supporter of the Iraq War in sparking the creation of Al Qaeda in Iraq, which later morphed into the Islamic State or ISIS. Nor did he address the fact that the United States and its allies, such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have essentially kept the Syrian civil war going, a point even acknowledged by some supporters of Syrian regime change. For instance, Thanassis Cambanis of the progressive Century Foundation produced a report entitled The Case for a More Robust U.S. Intervention in Syria, which acknowledged that most of the armed opposition has survived only because of foreign intervention. In other words, much of the death and destruction in Syria, which also has fueled political instability in Europe because of the massive refugee flow, resulted from intervention from the United States and its allies. So, the cure to the mess created by these not-thought-through interventions, at least in the view of Cohen and other eager interventionists, is more intervention. It was just such obsessive and irrational thinking embraced as Official Washingtons conventional wisdom that pushed the world toward the eve of destruction in 2016. Contemplating all this human foolishness, the cockroach historians might be left using one of their six legs to scratch their heads. [For more on these topics, see Consortiumnews.coms A Family Business of Perpetual War; Neocons and Neolibs: How Dead Ideas Kill; and The State Departments Collective Madness.] Investigative reporter Robert Parry broke many of the Iran-Contra stories for The Associated Press and Newsweek in the 1980s. You can buy his latest book, Americas Stolen Narrative, either in print here or as an e-book (from Amazon and barnesandnoble.com). Israeli MPs Try To Assault Haneen Zoabi By Jonathan Cook This 9-minute video, showing Israeli Jewish MPs reaction to a speech by Haneen Zoabi today, offers a very revealing insight into how Israels tribal democracy works. And it isnt pretty. Even in the British parliament, which is imploding at the moment, it is impossible to imagine scenes like these. Zoabi made the speech after Israel agreed this week very belatedly to pay compensation to the families of nine humanitarian activists killed by Israeli commandos in 2010 on the Mavi Marmara, as it plied international waters on its way to deliver aid to Gaza. In fact, it would be more accurate to say Israel assassinated the activists, as a way to deter others from following in their wake. The Marmara was a Turkish vessel and the compensation was part of Israels reconciliation deal with Turkey. Zoabi was the only Israeli MP on the ship, and was accused of treason by Knesset members for participating in the aid flotilla. She became public enemy number one and received many death threats at the time, including some barely veiled ones from Jewish MPs. All the exchanges in this video are in Hebrew, but that doesnt really matter. You dont need to understand the language to understand what is going on. One Jewish MP, Oren Hazan, of Netanyahus Likud party, heckles Zoabi non-stop for more than four minutes, with the Speaker doing nothing more than politely asking him to calm down and refrain from interrupting. Remember that Palestinians MPs are regularly ejected from the Knesset for far less than this kind of barracking and violation of parliamentary protocol. Notice also that the Knesset TV spends as much time, if not more, focusing on the heckler than Zoabi, implicitly legitimising his anti-democratic behaviour. But when Zoabi accuses the soldiers of murder at about 4.30-min into the video, all hell breaks loose. A dozen or more Jewish MPs rush to the podium and start circling Zoabi like a pack of baying hyenas. By this stage, when Zoabi is being physically threatened by a number of MPs in the parliament chamber, you might think it would be time for some of them to be forcefully ejected, if only to indicate that this subversion of the democratic process will not be tolerated. But not a bit of it. They are treated with kid gloves. The Knesset guards simply try to block the violent Jewish MPs from reaching the single Palestinian MP in their sights, presumably fearful that were she to be physically assaulted that might make headline news and make Israel look bad. Paradoxically, the only MP you can see on the film being pushed out of the Knesset chamber is Zoabis party leader, Jamal Zahalka, who from the look of things is interceding because hes worried she is in danger. Hazan was finally removed, though after more than eight minutes of heckling, threats and belligerence. Another paradox: Zoabi and her fellow party MPs have only recently been allowed to speak in the Knesset again, after the ethics committee (dominated by Jewish MPs) suspended them for several months because of their unacceptable political views. I doubt very much that any of these Jewish MPs, even though they have threatened and tried to physically harm another MP, one from the wrong tribe, will suffer any consequences at all for their behaviour. Zoabi said in her speech: I stood here six years ago, some of you remember the hatred and hostility toward me, and look where we got to. Apologies to the families of those who were called terrorists. The nine that were killed, it turns out that their families need to be compensated. I demand an apology to all the political activists who were on the Marmara and an apology to MK Haneen Zoabi, who youve incited against for six years. I demand compensation and I will donate it to the next flotilla. As long as theres a siege, more flotillas need to be organized. In addition to the violent reception from MPs visible on film, there was widespread incitement from other MPs. Michael Oren, who a while back was Israels ambassador to the US, sounded like Avigdor Lieberman as he said Zoabis speech proved she was not loyal and should be permanently stripped of her parliamentary status, under a soon-to-be-passed Suspension Law. In true colonial style, the governments chief whip, David Bitan, was reported to have told Palestinian voters in Israel after Zoabis speech: We need to make sure she doesnt stay in the Knesset. Weve had enough of this and she doesnt even represent you properly. Jonathan Cook is a Nazareth- based journalist and winner of the Martha Gellhorn Special Prize for Journalism Netanyahu to work toward ousting Arab Knesset member : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he plans to work toward ousting an Arab member of the Israeli parliament (Knesset) who has described the Israeli commandos who killed ten Turkish activists back in 2010 as murderers. The Collapse of Western Democracy By Paul Craig Roberts June 30, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - Democracy no longer exists in the West. In the US powerful private interest groups, such as the military-security complex, Wall Street, the Israel Lobby, agribusiness and the extractive industries of energy, timber and mining, have long exercised more control over government than the people. But now even the semblance of democracy has been abandoned. In the US Donald Trump has won the Republican presidential nomination. However, Republican convention delegates are plotting to deny Trump the nomination that the people have voted him. The Republican political establishment is showing an unwillingness to accept democratic outcomes. The people chose, but their choice is unacceptable to the establishment which intends to substitute its choice for the peoples choice. Do you remember Dominic Strauss-Kahn? Strauss-Kahn is the Frenchman who was head of the IMF and, according to polls, the likely next president of France. He said something that sounded too favorable toward the Greek people. This concerned powerful banking interests who worried that he might get in the way of their plunder of Greece, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. A hotel maid appeared who accused him of rape. He was arrested and held without bail. After the police and prosecutors had made fools of themselves, he was released with all charges dropped. But the goal was achieved. Strauss-Kahn had to resign as IMF director and kiss goodbye his chance for the presidency of France. Curious, isnt it, that a woman has now appeared who claims Trump raped her when she was 13 years old. Consider the political establishments response to the Brexit vote. Members of Parliament are saying that the vote is unacceptable and that Parliament has the right and responsibility to ignore the voice of the people. The view now established in the West is that the people are not qualified to make political decisions. The position of the opponents of Brexit is clear: it simply is not a matter for the British people whether their sovereignty is given away to an unaccountable commission in Brussels. Martin Schultz, President of the EU Parliament, puts it clearly: It is not the EU philosophy that the crowd can decide its fate. The Western media have made it clear that they do not accept the peoples decision either. The vote is said to be racist and therefore can be disregarded as illegitimate. Washington has no intention of permitting the British to exit the European Union. Washington did not work for 60 years to put all of Europe in the EU bag that Washington can control only to let democracy undo its achievement. The Federal Reserve, its Wall Street allies, and its Bank of Japan and European Central Bank vassals will short the UK pound and equities, and the presstitutes will explain the decline in values as the markets pronouncement that the British vote was a mistake. If Britain is actually permitted to leave, the two-year long negotiations will be used to tie the British into the EU so firmly that Britain leaves in name only. No one with a brain believes that Europeans are happy that Washington and NATO are driving them into conflict with Russia. Yet their protests have no effect on their governments. Consider the French protests of what the neoliberal French government, masquerading as socialist, calls labor law reforms. What the reform does is to take away the reforms that the French people achieved over decades of struggle. The French made employment more stable and less uncertain, thereby reducing stress and contributing to the happiness of life. But the corporations want more profit and regard regulations and laws that benefit people as barriers to higher profitability. Neoliberal economists backed the takeback of French labor rights with the false argument that a humane society causes unemployment. The neoliberal economists call it liberating the employment market from reforms achieved by the French people. The French government, of course, represents corporations, not the French people. The neoliberal economists and politicians have no qualms about sacrificing the quality of French life in order to clear the way for global corporations to make more profits. What is the value in the global market when the result is to worsen the fate of peoples? Consider the Germans. They are being overrun with refugees from Washingtons wars, wars that the stupid German government enabled. The German people are experiencing increases in crime and sexual attacks. They protest, but their government does not hear them. The German government is more concerned about the refugees than it is about the German people. Consider the Greeks and the Portuguese forced by their governments to accept personal financial ruin in order to boost the profits of foreign banks. These governments represent foreign bankers, not the Greek and Portuguese people. One wonders how long before all Western peoples conclude that only a French Revolution complete with guillotine can set them free. Powerful Interest Groups Have Triumphed Over The Rule Of Law By Paul Craig Roberts This from a reader: It was reported this morning that recently the jet that Attorney General Loretta Lynch was on just happened to be on the same ramp as the one carrying Bill Clinton. And somehow each party apparently knew of the presence of the other. And they were in close enough proximity that Bill and Loretta met privately in one of the jets. The FBI (a department under the AG) is investigating Hillarys emails as a criminal violation of the espionage act and the funding of the Clinton Foundation by foreign interests. Seems to me that this is more than coincidental and is highly irregular for a prosecuting official to meet privately with a potential defendantor husband of a potential defendant. Wonder whos jet they met on? Did the AG go to Bills jet? Wouldnt that be particularly unusual? Did Bill go over to the AGs jet, and if so why would the AG allow it and precipitate such a conflict of interests? Here is confirmation that this meeting did occur: There was a half hour meeting on the AGs plane. Watch the news video from ABC 15: http://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2016/06/ag-loretta-lynch-half-hour-meeting-bill-clinton-airplane-says-talked-grandchildren-video/ http://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/central-phoenix/loretta-lynch-bill-clinton-meet-privately-in-phoenix Dr. Paul Craig Roberts was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Economic Policy and associate editor of the Wall Street Journal. He was columnist for Business Week, Scripps Howard News Service, and Creators Syndicate. He has had many university appointments. His internet columns have attracted a worldwide following. Roberts' latest books are The Failure of Laissez Faire Capitalism and Economic Dissolution of the West , How America Was Lost , and The Neoconservative Threat to World Order . The Elites Have Lost the Right to Rule By Michael Krieger In the end, the elites will be overthrown and a power vacuum will form. The transition period will be extremely difficult as the elites will fight their demise to the end. For you see, they care nothing for you they care about their power and control. Nevertheless, rulers have always only ruled by the will (or apathy) of the people and when the people become overly taxed and abused they always rebel. The main thing to think about is what kind of society do we want to rebuild from the ashes. I am of the view that it must be a return to the Constitution and an elimination of central banking power and secrecy. Lets not fall for a demagogue or be pushed into a war when things are at their worst. From my 2010 post: The Elites Have Lost The Right to Rule June 30, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " Liberty Blitzkrieg "- While the Trump and Brexit movements are indisputably fascinating merely as public indictments against the greedy and criminal status quo, they are equally meaningful from another perspective. The reaction from many in the media to both Trump and Brexit have betrayed their ulterior motives by exposing dangerous, antidemocratic biases. Now this has nothing to do with whether or not you are in favor of either Trump or Brexit. Personally, I think Trump is a very unwelcome reaction to the destructive trends going on around us. Hes extraordinary divisive (even amongst people who hate the establishment), has no regard for civil liberties, and displays obvious authoritarian tendencies. Despite this point of view, I dont focus obsessively on all the negative aspects of Trump in my posts, because I acknowledge that Trump is a symptom of a much larger problem, not the root cause of it. Dealing with symptoms can keep things settled for a time, but the problem will invariably return in far worse form should the underlying causes remain unresolved. People are acting as if it cant possibly get worse than Trump. Believe me, it can get a lot worse. With that out of the way, lets talk about root causes. Donald Trump and Brexit are direct responses to a horribly rigged, parasitic and phony global economy. Ive been writing about this dangerous reality and warning about its unpleasant inevitable outcomes for over half a decade. Its not just me of course. Countless people have been doing it, including self-aware individuals from the 0.01%. Recall Nick Hanaeurs article which I highlighted in the 2014 post: The Pitchforks are Coming A Dire Warning from a Member of the 0.01%. He warned: If we dont do something to fix the glaring inequities in this economy, the pitchforks are going to come for us. No society can sustain this kind of rising inequality. In fact, there is no example in human history where wealth accumulated like this and the pitchforks didnt eventually come out. You show me a highly unequal society, and I will show you a police state. Or an uprising. There are no counterexamples. None. Its not if, its when. Nick, I and the millions of others who are angry about this destructive system arent crazy. Nor are we racists or ignoramuses. Were merely people who pay attention and are willing to admit the obvious. The system is rigged and the current crop of elites rigged it. Take for example some data from a recent Market-Edison Research poll: The latest Marketplace-Edison Research poll shows Americans stress over their personal financial situation building even before Brexit. We asked basic questions about, for example, household budgets, family vacations and paying bills. Americans responses showed that, in May, our countrys anxiety level climbed to its highest point since the beginning of our poll. Here are a couple of things Americans told us: More of them are losing sleep over their financial situation: 32 percent now compared with 28 percent in September 2015. They are less confident that they could find a new job within six months if they were to lose their current job: 41 percent are very confident about finding a new job now compared with 46 percent in September 2015. On questions about trade and economic fairness issues that British voters debated in the U.K. before Brexit and that are resonating in the U.S. 2016 presidential campaign: A majority of Americans 55 percent think the decline of manufacturing jobs is more due to trade deals than natural changes in the economy. Americans from across the economic and political spectrum 71 percent of them think the U.S. economic system is rigged in favor of certain groups. Go ahead and read that again. 71% of Americans from across the economic and political spectrum think the U.S. economy is rigged. The truth is they dont think the economy is rigged, they know it is. This knowledge coupled with an understanding that the status quo will do everything it can to keep it that way, is precisely why so many people are grasping for something, anything to potentially blow up the status quo irrespective of any negative consequences. The people arent to blame for this situation, the elites are. So Trump and Brexit represent the sorts of outcomes that anyone paying the slightest amount of attention should not be surprised by. The volcano that is the average citizenry was bound to erupt, and erupt it has in 2016. As such, youd hope those trusted media pundits and journalists who are anti-Trump and anti-Brexit would spend a little time reflecting upon what exactly got us to this point. Incredibly, many of them are doing absolutely nothing of the sort. Its just like all the people who said after the 2008 financial crisis hit that nobody could have seen it coming. Well a lot of people saw it coming, just like a lot of people predicted the burgeoning political mayhem. Therein lies the rub. This is all about power and stature, and the current status quo and their henchmen/henchwomen know that they can never admit they were wrong about anything. To admit they were wrong would mean to ultimately lose their positions and influence. They would do anything to preserve it, which is precisely why so many of these so-called thought leaders are panicking now. They are used to getting away with anything, including propagandizing an entire country to war, torture and countless crimes against humanity. Some of them are rightly terrified that their days of unaccountable punditry could be coming to an end. Thus, they lash out against the public for rejecting their expert wisdom. I think its once again important to take a look back at the immediate post-financial crisis period. How many of the people who saw the crisis coming were put into prominent positions of power within the Obama administration? I cant think of one. On the other hand, I very vividly recall the day Obama announced that Larry Summers and Timothy Geithner would be brought into prominent government positions. His team assembled, Obama went to work by bellowing propaganda, throwing money at the financial companies that blew up the planet, and pretending the crisis was an act of God. As as result, the status quo maintained its position. The exact same thing is happening again right now, but this time members of the media/punditry feel personally under attack. Most of them are incapable of admitting that their careers exist solely as a condition of constantly glorifying and promoting the agenda of the rich and powerful, while pretending the rest of the country doesnt exist. Perhaps if the media had done its job all these years, the citizenry wouldve been far more informed and halted some of these trends before they reached the terminal stage. But the media as whole didnt do that, and here we are. As such, many journalists and pundits are furiously scrambling to put the blame somewhere else. Its all Trumps fault. Or its the crazy racists, the poor, the uneducated, as if all these populist movements spontaneously emerged out of some magical revolutionary vacuum just like they told us the financial crisis did. One thing these people never, ever do is reflect upon how we actually got to this place. Of course, I dont want to overly generalize. There have been many excellent and introspective articles written in the wake of Trump and Brexit, as there should be. We shouldnt be in a position where we have to applaud the good ones simply because there are so many bad ones, yet thats the world we live in. In this regard, I want to highlight two very distinct articles contemplating Brexit which I read today. One demonstrates media at its best, while the other perfectly characterizes all that is wrong with the status quo and its sycophantic minions. First, the good. Ellie Mae OHagan wrote an article for the Guardian titled, When Political Leaders are Selected via Elitism Not Talent, You Get Chaos. Here are a few excerpts: This total incompetence, this craven self-interest, this embarrassing fecklessness is what you get when you live in a country where political leaders are mainly selected via elitism rather than talent: 33% of MPs went to private school, and nearly a quarter went to Oxbridge. This doesnt just end with members of parliament either: 43% of newspaper columnists and 26% of BBC executives were all educated privately. Oxbridge graduates make up 57% of permanent secretaries, 50% of diplomats, 47% of newspaper columnists, 44% of public body chairs and 33% of BBC executives. Its no surprise that people feel alienated by politics and locked out of democracy, and view the people who represent them as out of touch. Indeed, Brexit should be seen as an expression of that as much as anything else. But there is less discussion about what this elitism means for the quality of people who actually end up leading us and formulating political discourse. And this seismic crisis should change that, because it reveals that a lot of these people are basically defunct obsolete in this new era of crisis. Think of what has been happening in this country since 2008. In mainstream politics there has been virtually no analysis of what caused the financial crisis, no attempts to address the underlying structural problems in the economy, no retribution for the people that caused it, no serious attempt to stem widening inequality, no support for the people who lost their jobs during the recession, no viable solution to a worsening housing crisis, no hope for a generation of young people entering into an unstable, precarious economy. This is not about individual politicians. Indeed, there are many who are talented Ruth Davidson, Nicola Sturgeon, Caroline Lucas to name a few. But the political class as a whole, and how it functions alongside its outer circle of pundits, lobbyists, policymakers and so on, has proven itself to be woefully unqualified to cope with crisis as well as being utterly unable to comprehend the country it is supposed to be governing. Now compare that to the title of an article written by James Traub at Foreign Policy. His piece, published yesterday, comes with a headline so mind-bogglingly detached and clownish youd think it came from the The Onion. Its called: Its Time for the Elites to Rise Up Against the Ignorant Masses. Unfortunately, thats not a joke, and it gets even better. Check out the caption below the headline, which Im sure Mr. Traub was especially proud of. In writing this, Mr. Traub is explicitly saying that the 71% of Americans who think the economic system is rigged are merely mindlessly angry. What Mr. Traub is doing is merely spewing propaganda to achieve what Aldous Huxley explained in the following quote: the propagandists purpose is to make one set of people forget that other certain sets of people are human. By calling the masses mindless, he is dehumanizing them and therefore providing intellectual justification for continued status quo abuse of the general public. Its a downright evil strategy to protect himself and secure his position going forward. His attitude perfectly reflects exactly why society needs to relegate people like him to the fringes, as opposed to positions of prominence and influence. Nevertheless, for some perspective about whos actually mindless, lets examine a few of his pearls of wisdom. Mr Traub writes: One of the most brazen features of the Brexit vote was the utter repudiation of the bankers and economists and Western heads of state who warned voters against the dangers of a split with the European Union. British Prime Minister David Cameron thought that voters would defer to the near-universal opinion of experts; that only shows how utterly he misjudged his own people. Both the Conservative and the Labour parties in Britain are now in crisis. The British have had their day of reckoning; the American one looms. If Donald Trump loses, and loses badly (forgive me my reckless optimism, but I believe he will) the Republican Party may endure a historic split between its know-nothing base and its K Street/Chamber of Commerce leadership class. The schism we see opening before us is not just about policies, but about reality. The Brexit forces won because cynical leaders were prepared to cater to voters paranoia, lying to them about the dangers of immigration and the costs of membership in the EU. Some of those leaders have already begun to admit that they were lying. Donald Trump has, of course, set a new standard for disingenuousness and catering to voters fears, whether over immigration or foreign trade or anything else he can think of. The Republican Party, already rife with science-deniers and economic reality-deniers, has thrown itself into the embrace of a man who fabricates realities that ignorant people like to inhabit. Did I say ignorant? Yes, I did. It is necessary to say that people are deluded and that the task of leadership is to un-delude them. Is that elitist? Maybe it is; maybe we have become so inclined to celebrate the authenticity of all personal conviction that it is now elitist to believe in reason, expertise, and the lessons of history. If so, the party of accepting reality must be prepared to take on the party of denying reality, and its enablers among those who know better. If that is the coming realignment, we should embrace it. Whats so incredible about this piece is his instinctual and self-important condemnation of the ignorant masses for a variety of offenses, while failing to recognize the gigantic elephant-like ignoramus in the room: himself. After all, hes basically saying everything would be fine and dandy if it werent for these mindless citizens meddling with elitist plans. He believes this nonsense so strongly, the headline of his article is essentially a call to arms for the elites against the pubic. Moreover, I have to ask: Did Mr. Traub see all of these emergent trends back in 2010? If not, why not? I sure as heck did, and Im nobody special. Recall what I wrote in, The Elites Have Lost The Right to Rule: In the end, the elites will be overthrown and a power vacuum will form. The transition period will be extremely difficult as the elites will fight their demise to the end. For you see, they care nothing for you they care about their power and control. Nevertheless, rulers have always only ruled by the will (or apathy) of the people and when the people become overly taxed and abused they always rebel. The main thing to think about is what kind of society do we want to rebuild from the ashes. I am of the view that it must be a return to the Constitution and an elimination of central banking power and secrecy. Lets not fall for a demagogue or be pushed into a war when things are at their worst. So how was I able to see all of this so far ahead of time? The answer is it was obvious if you were willing to pay attention, think critically and admit unpleasant realities. Yet here we are in 2016, with pundits, thought leaders, and experts alike screaming about Trump and Brexit as if these movements came from nowhere, while we all know they came from somewhere. They came from the dark, corrupt and hopelessly deranged policies of the status quo. The same status quo that remains in power to this very day. The sooner we rid ourselves of this societally cancerous tumor the better, because the longer it takes to move on to something else, the more negative that something else is likely to be. Michael Krieger is the creator and editor of Liberty Blitzkrieg. Originally from New York City. He attended college at Duke University where he earned a double major in Economics and Spanish. Coptic Solidarity Supports Resolutions Condemning Global Blasphemy Laws Contact: Lindsay Vessey, Coptic Solidarity, 801-512-1713, coptadvocacy@copticsolidarity.org WASHINGTON, June 30, 2016 /Christian Newswire/ -- Coptic Solidarity affirms that the freedom to choose one's own beliefs, to discuss those beliefs with others, and to worship in a community with others is an intrinsic and fundamental right of the human experience. Yet, many individuals worldwide are denied these most basic freedoms. Coptic Solidarity supports Senate Resolution 69, which was introduced by Senator Inhofe (R-OK) and calls for the protection of religious minority rights and freedoms worldwide. As S. RES 69 states, "The freedom to worship by minority religious communities worldwide has come under repeated and deadly attack, and often religious minorities are regarded as enemies of the state." It also states, "The freedom to proselytize by minority religious communities has also come under repeated and deadly attack in recent years through so-called blasphemy laws and anti-conversion laws that are punishable by fines, imprisonment, and death." Coptic Solidarity also supports House Resolution 290, which was introduced by Rep. Joe Pitts (R-PA) and calls for the global repeal of blasphemy laws in general, and in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Egypt in particular. Blasphemy laws produce more violence, instability, and institutionalized discrimination against minorities in the countries in which they exist. They make governments the arbiter of truth or religious rightness and empower governments to discriminate against individuals and minorities by enforcing its religious views. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) reports that blasphemy cases have increased in Egypt since 2011, continuing in this last year under El-Sissi. They also report that the majority who have been sentenced to prison are Christians, Shi'a Muslims, and atheists in flawed court trials. Coptic Solidarity calls upon all concerned to join in advocating on behalf of these resolutions so that individuals worldwide are able to enjoy these same basic freedoms we enjoy in the United States. We also ask all concerned to urge their U.S. Representatives and U.S. Senators to cosponsor these respective resolutions. Having more cosponsors increases the likelihood of the resolutions being moved to a mark-up in committee and then to a vote. There were only seven Congressional co-sponsors of H. RES. 290 when Coptic Solidarity initially wrote to its supporters. Now there are 30 cosponsors. Coptic Solidarity asks all concerned individuals to send a pre-written message to their US Representative and U.S. Senators asking them to cosponsor H. RES. 290 and S. 69 respectively. Coptic Solidarity is an organization seeking to help minorities, particularly the Copts, of Egypt and we support those in Egypt working for democracy, freedom, and the protection of the fundamental rights of all Egyptian citizens. For more information, contact Lindsay Vessey at 801-512-1713 or coptadvocacy@copticsolidarity.org More War on Terror Means More Terrorist Attacks As ISIS loses territory, it returns to mass-casualty attacks against civilians. That's why military-first approaches to terrorism are doomed to failure. By Phyllis Bennis June 30, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " FPIF "- At least 41 people were killed in the recent bombing of Istanbuls Ataturk Airport. The day before, suicide bombers killed five people in Qaa, a small village in Lebanon. And while the Saudi-led and U.S.-backed war in Yemen continues to rage, an ISIS affiliate claimed responsibility for attacks in the Yemeni port city of Mukalla that killed at least 12. As of June 29, ISIS affiliates had claimed responsibility only for the Yemen attacks. But just a few hours after the Istanbul airport attack, Turkish authorities were already blaming ISIS. Since Ankara (unlike the U.S., where many officials blame ISIS for every act of violence) has been eager to blame every attack against Turkish targets on its Kurdish opponents especially the Kurdish Workers Party, or PKK the governments early willingness to blame ISIS implies the likely existence of some convincing evidence. Importantly, all three attacks took place following a significant defeat of ISIS on the ground. The Iraqi military, backed by U.S. forces, had been moving against the extremist forces in the symbolically and politically important city of Fallujah since early February, when it imposed a full siege on the city. The closure, which denied civilian residents access to food, medicine, and other life-saving supplies, devastated living conditions for the ordinary Iraqis caught between ISIS brutality and the extreme deprivation caused by the siege. On June 26 just days before the bombings in Istanbul, Lebanon, and Yemen Baghdad proclaimed the city liberated from ISIS. Two days later, the Istanbul airport was attacked. The timing was similar to other terrorist attacks that occurred as ISIS was losing ground. In the fall of 2015, the U.S.-led coalition, including many European countries, escalated its bombing attacks on the ISIS-held city of Ramadi. As ISIS faced the likely loss of the Iraqi town, it pivoted away from its emphasis on holding territory to return to its earlier focus on terror attacks against civilians. The Paris bombing apparently carried out by ISIS-affiliated terrorists shook the world on November 13. Two weeks later, on December 2, a California couple allegedly inspired by ISIS carried out the mass shooting in San Bernardino that killed 14 people and injured 22 more. On December 28, the Iraqi military would declare Ramadi liberated from ISIS. (This celebratory announcement didnt mention the inconvenient fact that U.S. bombing had largely pulverized what was left of the town. The 350,000 residents whod fled ISIS brutality had no city to return to.) The correlation between ISIS losing territory in its so-called caliphate in Syria and Iraq and the rise of terror attacks often much farther afield is one more indication of the failure of the U.S. war on terror. Once again, it demonstrates the futility of attempting to bomb or shoot terrorism out of existence. When bombing and shooting are the methods of choice the targets are not terrorism, but cities and people. Air strikes and drone attacks on people in a car, in the desert, in a hospital, or at a wedding party may sometimes kill individual terrorists (and always other people), but do nothing to stop terrorism. Leaders are soon replaced, and the most adept bomb-makers soon turn out to have trained a successor. Military engagement may have worked in some areas to oust ISIS forces from territory they controlled, but the cost of such campaigns is extraordinarily high for the people and nations where they occur. People face, as in Ramadi, the absolute destruction of their homes and city. They may become refugees or internally displaced people for a generation or more. In Fallujah, thousands of desperate civilians fleeing the fighting in mid-June found that no preparations had been made to care for them with clean water, food, shelter from the searing heat, and medical care all lacking. A big problem Iraqi forces and their U.S. backers face is the lack of support from some residents for their liberators. In a recent poll in Mosul, the second-largest city in Iraq, a full 74 percent of Sunni residents said they didnt want to be liberated by the Iraqi military. ISIS has held the city since June 2014. This harkens back to the original reason ISIS became so powerful in Iraq. Its not because ordinary Iraqis supported the groups brutal, extremist definition of Islam, but because the sectarian Shia-dominated government in Baghdad and the often even more brutal and sectarian Shia militias allied to that government made ISIS appear a lesser evil. Of course not all Sunnis, or even a majority, turned to ISIS. But a not-insignificant number did, and some continue to accept the group, however reluctantly. U.S.-led military campaigns against terror continue to set the stage for more terror attacks, and to create more terrorists, as anger turns to rage and rage, for some, turns brutally violent. The military-first U.S. strategy is exacting a huge price especially for the people in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Afghanistan, and beyond but also on us here at home, and on civilians throughout the world. If we re serious about ending terror attacks, there are a host of non-military approaches that hold far more promise than bomb-drone-kill. Diplomacy, humanitarian support, arms embargos, economic assistance, more diplomacy we need to use them all instead of military action, not alongside it. Step one means acknowledging that the current strategy is failing. In Right-wing Putsch, UK Labour MPs Deliver Overwhelming Anti-Corbyn Vote By Julie Hyland June 30, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " WSWS "- Fully 81 percent of the parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) supported Tuesdays motion of no-confidence in leader Jeremy Corbyn. Just 40 Labour MPs voted against the motion, with 172 in favour. Thirteen did not vote at all and there were four spoilt ballots. The extraordinary scale of the right-wing coup, which had already seen Corbyn lose most of his shadow cabinet in a series of timed resignations, was intended to force the Labour leader to resign. But in a statement put out moments after the result, Corbyn said that he had been elected by 60 percent of Labour members and supporters only last September, and I will not betray them by resigning. The no-confidence motion, he said, has no constitutional legitimacy. Corbyn is correct in that the motion is non-binding and there are no constitutional provisions in Labours rulebook for a leader to stand down in the event of such a vote. But his opponents are not merely indifferent, but viciously opposed to party democracy. They aim to overturn the result of last Septembers election, which saw Corbyn decisively win the leadership on a ticket of opposing austerity and war. These events shatter Corbyns claim that the party can be reclaimed for working people. They make clear that Labour is a right-wing party of the state, deeply hostile to the working class and even to its own membership. The seismic shock of last Thursdays referendum vote in favour of Britain quitting its membership of the European Union has provided the trigger for these moves. With the contest for the Conservative Party leadership opening today and a snap general election possible in the autumn, the PLP clique that controls the Labour Party is acting in concert with the highest levels of the state. Their motivation is not their professed concern that Corbyn could not win a general election, but their fear that he very well might. Under conditions of the gravest crisis for Britains ruling elite since the Second World War, the bourgeoisie will not tolerate a potential prime minister professing an anti-austerity, anti-militarist agenda. They want to ensure that Labourthe main political obstacle to socialism in Britain for more than a centuryis completely reliable in carrying through the onslaught against the working class now being prepared. On June 13, 10 days before the EU referendum, the Telegraphs political correspondent, Ben Riley-Smith, set out precisely the scenario that has now unfolded. Labour rebels, he wrote, were preparing to topple Corbyn after the referendum in a 24-hour media blitz. By fanning the flames with front bench resignations and public criticism, they think the signatures needed to trigger a leadership race can be gathered within a day, he said. Within hours of the referendum result, by midday Friday, Dame Margaret Hodge and Ann Coffey MP had submitted the no-confidence motion against Corbyn. This was followed early Sunday morning by Shadow Foreign Secretary Hilary Benn informing Corbyn that he had no confidence in his leadership, leading to his sacking. Beginning Monday morning, the wave of resignations by shadow cabinet MPs was underway. Charging that Corbyn had not done enough to ensure a Remain vote in the referendumdespite 64 percent of Labour supporters backing staying in the EUmore than 50 resigned their posts in less than 48 hours. Such was the febrile atmosphere in the PLP that there were wild and false allegations that Corbyn had personally voted to leave the EU. Late Monday, the Financial Times demanded that the party now act to remove Jeremy Corbyn. Regardless of party rules and members desires, the PLP must press ahead and spell out to the whole Labour movement the consequence of the false path the party has embarked upon. On Tuesday morning, the pro-Labour Daily Mirror led its front page with a call for Corbyn to step down for the good of the party and the country. Corbyn was left to frantically seek replacements for the resigned shadow cabinet ministers, but he could not command sufficient support to fill the vacancies. Two members of his newly reshuffled shadow cabinet, Rachael Maskell and Rob Marris, abstained in the no-confidence motion. Ian Murray, former shadow Scottish secretary, is among those who quit the front benches. He is Labours sole Scottish MP after the party was all but wiped out in last years general election. Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale joined the calls for Corbyn to quit, and Lord Foulkes, chairman of the Scottish PLP, said no Scottish politician would be prepared to sit in a Corbyn-led shadow cabinet. These moves are deeply unpopular. More than 224,000 people have so far signed an online petition defending Corbyn. On Monday night, 10,000 protested in Parliament Square in support of the Labour leader. But right-wing Blairites have lined up to insist that this supportwhich they deride as consisting of Trotskyites and Stalinistsis illegitimate. Alistair Campbell, Tony Blairs former spin doctor, said that Labour had become a Corbynite sect and a cult, made up of supporters of hard-left parties. Campbell called on those wanting to oust Corbyn to sign up as Labour supporters in preparation for a leadership challenge. A campaign, #SavingLabour, has been set up to recruit new members on this basis. Former shadow business secretary Angela Eagle is today expected to announce her challenge to Corbyns leadership if he does not resign. Her candidacy, some on the right hope, would rally the majority of the PLP and effectively block Corbyn from even running in a leadership contest, as he does not have the support of the 50 MPs required for placement on the ballot. Corbyns supporters say that this is also unconstitutional, because, as serving leader, he automatically has the right to be on the ballot. So far, Corbyn seems to retain the backing of the major trade unions, which are Labours main financial base. Len McCluskey, leader of the Unite union, the single largest donor, said that the behaviour of the PLP was extraordinary and that if anyone wants to change the Labour leadership, they must do it openly and democratically through an election, not through resignations and pointless posturing. But such statements are lukewarm. And even if these blatantly anti-democratic moves fail and Corbyn is able to run, the PLP has made clear they will not serve under him if he wins again. Hence the open calls for a split by the right. Former Home Secretary David Blunkett said Corbyns supporters should leave Labour and set up their own party with Momentum, the grassroots organisation set up to support Corbyn after his leadership victory. Behind such demands, preparations are being made for a national unity government. Writing in the Telegraph, John McTernan indicated what is being discussed behind the scenes. The issue of EU membership had split the country and all the parties, he wrote, requiring a government capable of rising to the challenges the country faces. The solution was a grand coalition along German lines. The ideal would be to take the ultra-left rump of the Labour Party around Corbyn and demerge them into a separate party. The Conservative party could then be split into pro- and anti-Brexit camps. This would see Tory modernisers join with the majority of Labour MPs in a progressive party of the radical centre that could incorporate the remaining Liberal Democrats into an opposition of national unity. Copyright 1998-2016 World Socialist Web Site - All rights reserved Nollywood actress, script writer and producer, Blessing Effiom Egbe, is a year older today, June 30, 2016. To celebrate the moviemaker, here are 15 things to know about the proud mother of three. *She was born Blessing Ibiang Effiom into a family of eight in Port Harcourt, Rivers state. *She attended university of calabar where she graduated from the department of Theatre Arts in 2001. *While waiting to participate in the national youth service program, Blessing worked in the banking industry for 6 months before joining the glamour industry as a model. *Her model career began with the Silverbird International Fashion show, shortly after, she won THE ECOWAS BEST MODEL competition in 2002. *Through that win, Blessing got plunged into the world of international modeling and in the process she settled in Cape Town, South Africa. She has featured in several television commercials in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, South Africa and other places for big time products like Investec Bank, America Next Top Model, Smart Car, and Snickers Chocolate. *The high points of her model career was when she represented Nigeria at the top model competition in Lebanon in 2003 and then working with Tyra Banks for the America next top model competition. *After a while, Blessing got bored of just being a pretty face and the body of some product or brand. She began questioning her choice of career and went straight into action by enrolling at the City Varsity film school, Cape Town, South Africa, where she studied script writing and production. *Her first professional fee was N8,000 in the movie Bleeding Heart, where she did four scenes as a barmaid to Ngozi Nwosu. *Her journey into the beautiful world of film making began after graduation, when she decided to indulge fully in writing, producing and starring in her own works. *Shes married with 3 lovely children. *She is the C.E.O of BConcept Network Productions and producer of popular movies like Two Brides and a Baby, This Thing Called Marriage , One Room and Lekki Wives drama series. *Blessing wrote scripts, produced and has featured in her own films including Before the Vow, After the Vow, African Queen, Working the Lane, The Rivals, Survivors and the TV series, Disclosures. *As a writer/producer, Before the Vow gave her the breakthrough in Nollywood. *She was once a business partner to actress cum producer, Omoni Oboli. *This year marks her 13th year in Nollywood. Happy Birthday from the Information Nigeria team. Minister of State for petroleum resources and Group Managing Director of NNPC, Ibe Kachikwu has declared the ongoing NNPC China Investors Roadshow organized by the Corporation to attract investors in China and the Asian sub region to invest in the Nigerian Oil and Gas sector a success. Dr Ibe says the roadshow was organized as a follow up to the working visit of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari to China in April, 2016. INFORMATION NIGERIA brings you 6 things he said tha should interest you. 1. The Corporation has achieved its bid to bridge the infrastructure funding gaps in the Nigerian oil and gas sector. 2.This comes in the form of a first of its kind road show in China where memorandum of understandings (MOUs) worth over $80billion to be spent on investments in oil and gas infrastructure, pipelines, refineries, power, facility refurbishments and upstream has been signed with Chinese companies. 3.The Honorable Minister of State and Group Managing Director of NNPC who is currently visiting China as a Special Envoy of the Nigerian President is leading a team of Top Management of the Corporation and Key Industry Stakeholders to showcase the investment opportunities which abound in the oil and gas value chain in Nigeria to the investors with a view to attracting funding and partnerships that would turn around the sector and place it among the best in the world. 4.the show of support which reflects the growing international confidence in Nigerias oil and gas sector 5.Dr. Kachikwu further mentioned that the China Roadshow is the first of many investor roadshows intended for the raising of funds to support the Oil & Gas Infrastructure roadmap. Road shows have been slated for India and the Gulf States. 6.Dr. Kachikwu further mentioned that the China Roadshow is the first of many investor roadshows intended for the raising of funds to support the Oil & Gas Infrastructure roadmap. Road shows have been slated for India and the Gulf States. The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, on Wednesday, kicked against the Federal Governments directive for tertiary institutions to scrap the Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, Post-UTME, for admission of candidates for the 2016/2017 academic session, saying the quality of tertiary education in the country could improve if the institutions are allowed to regulate their students admission process. ASUU President, Comrade Biodun Ogunyemi, said such freedom would enhance the quality of education. Recall that at a recent joint policy meeting to decide the cut off mark for students seeking admission into the universities, the government announced the scrapping of post-unified tertiary matriculation examination (UTME). The Post UTME is the second stage of screening usually conducted by universities for the final selection of candidates qualified for admission for an academic session. Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu had threatened to sanction any university or tertiary institution found conducting examinations under any guise to admit students. He further directed tertiary institutions that had collected money from candidates for such purposes to immediately refund it or face appropriate sanctions. The ASUU boss told NAN that such directive encroached on the autonomy of the institutions. I think government should give these institutions the chance to regulate themselves, he said. They should decide for themselves, the process they dim fit to admit their students. The Senate of universities for example, should decide on the process they want to use in selecting candidates. We do not think its right for government to decide the method of screening of the candidates, indeed, we want to attain some level of sanity and quality in the system. The unionist added that government could only come into the process by putting in place the necessary guidelines as part of their oversight functions. According to him, it may not also be easy for institutions that had already collected money for the conduct of the post-UTME or screening in whatever guise to refund such money. He added that this was because such money could have been diverted to other purposes. Ogunyemi noted that most universities were under-funded and therefore, might have used some of the money to attend to urgent needs of the institution. Some of the arguments raised in this entire episode is that universities or tertiary institutions were using the conduct of such examination to make money, he said. But the truth is, these institutions are poorly funded. If universities for example are properly funded, will the vice-chancellors be looking for other means of making money? In the last seven months, university workers have been receiving incomplete salaries, that is, the disbursement of funds for payment of salaries has always been inadequate. When situations like this arise, the managements will not be left with any choice than to look inwards and seek means of meeting such needs. And one of such strategies is by conducting such examination. Ogunyemi noted that the state universities were worst hit for many of them had yet to receive subvention in the last one year. Actually we in ASUU frown at extortion of any type from students or candidates but the government too should be alive to its responsibilities by providing the enabling environment that will aid teaching, leaning and research. Source: Vanguard Adeniyi Ademola, justice of the federal high court, Abuja, has struck out a suit challenging the veracity of the academic credentials of President Muhammadu Buhari. Justice Ademola, while delivering a ruling on Thursday struck out the case by virtue of section 50(2) of the federal high court civil procedure rules. On June 16, Ademola had adjourned the case indefinitely, and said his reason was because of a notice of appeal filed by the president. On June 15, Buhari had appealed against a previous ruling of the court dismissing his preliminary objection to the suit filed by Nwokocha-Ahaaiwe, an Abuja based lawyer. The Judges order followed a motion for discontinuance filed by Nnamdi Nwokocha- Ahaaiwe, the applicant himself. The bottom-line of Nwokocha-Ahaaiwes suit was that Buhari was not qualified to run for president because he did not possess the minimum qualification to run for the office and had alleged that Buhari did not sit for the Cambridge West African School Certificate WASC) in 1961. The Federal Government has declared July 5 and 6, 2016 as public holiday to mark Eid-el Fitri Celebrations. The government made the announcement through the Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd.) on Thursday in Abuja. He urged all Muslim faithful and Nigerians in general to extend the spiritual benefits of Ramadan, which are love, peace and justice to their daily living and contribute to the development of the nation. The Minister also called for the total support of Nigerians for President Muhammadu Buharis determination to bequeath to the nation an enduring political legacy. A statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Bassey Akpanyung said Dambazau also urged Nigerians to use the opportunity of this spiritual rejuvenation to reflect on the imperative of unity and peaceful co-existence in strengthening the bond of togetherness for a strong, virile nation. The immediate past Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu (rtd), charged with laundering N21billion, has returned N2.6billion to the Federal Government, it was learnt yesterday. Lawyer to the former Air Chief, Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN), who was making an argument for liberal bail conditions for his client yesterday before Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court in Lagos, said Amosu had returned collossal sums to the federal government. The colossal sums made reference to by Chief Ayorinde, is to the tune of N2.6billion, it was learnt. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Amosu along with a former Chief of Accounts and Budgeting at the Nigeria Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Jacob Adigun, and a former Director of Finance and Budget, Air Commodore Olugbenga Gbadebo. The companies arraigned with them are Delfina Oil and Gas Ltd, Mcallan Oil And Gas Ltd, Hebron Housing and Properties Company Ltd, Trapezites BDC, Fonds and Pricey Ltd, Deegee Oil and Gas Ltd, Timsegg Investment Ltd and Solomon Health Care Ltd. EFCC accused them of converting N21billion from the Nigeria Air Force around March 5, 2014 in Lagos and concealing proceeds of crime, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 18(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act, 2012, which is punishable under Section 17(a). Arguing the bail application, Ayorinde said his client, who pleaded not guilty, had always been cooperative with the prosecution since his arrest in January and would not jump bail. He has remitted colossal sums of money to the Federal Government, although not in admittance of guilt, but out of cooperation with security agencies. My application is that bail be granted to the first defendant on self-recognisance. Let those terms be liberal. He has been reporting to the EFCC, sometimes twice a week. The first defendant will make himself available for trial, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said. Prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, did not oppose the bail application by Ayorinde and the other lawyers to the co-accused persons, but urged the court to make the terms stringent. Justice Idris granted them N500 million bail each, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties, he noted, must be property owners within the courts jurisdiction. Title documents of the properties must be submitted to the courts registrar, which must be verified by the EFCC. The sureties must also swear to an affidavit of means which must be verified by the EFCC, the court ruled. Justice Idris also directed the defendants to submit their travel passport to the courts Deputy Chief Registrar (DCR). While ordering Amosu and Gbadebo be remanded in prison custody, the court ordered that Adigun be kept in EFCC custody due to his health condition pending when he perfects his bail terms. A former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, who was allegedly manhandled while in custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, by one of its operative, has denied writing a message to Christians from detention. Mr. Fani-Kayode, who was Director of Media and Publicity of the Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign in the last general elections, is standing trial alongside a former senator and former Finance Minister, Esther Nenadi, Danjuma Yusuf and a company, Joint Trust Nigeria Limited, on 17-count charges. The former Aviation Minister, who was remanded in prison custody along with his co-accused by a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos on Tuesday, purportedly issued a widely circulated statement on social media yesterday, alleging that his detention and manhandling in EFCC custody because he was leading other inmates in singing Christian songs, was part of a larger plot to Islamize Nigeria. He also purportedly claimed that the hijab crisis playing out in Osun State and Religious Bill in Kaduna State was another unfolding agenda of those planning to suppress Christianity in the country. Mr. Fani-Kayode, however, distanced himself from the state message, describing it as part of what he termed a log and systematic plot by mischief makers, to impugn his character and cause disaffection among his friends, associates and supporters. That message was part of a long and systematic plot by mischief makers, his traducers and detractors to continue to discredit and malign his person and character, and cause disaffection among his friends, associates and supporters. We therefore urge members of the public to disregard that message and treat it as non-existent, a terse statement issued by the former ministers aide, Jude Ndukwe, said on Thursday. Indications emerged Thursday that the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, called the bluff of the wife of the president, Aisha Buhari, to retract a statement he made linking her to convicted American Congressman, William Jeffersons bribery scandal. Mrs. Buhari had through her lawyers, dispatched a letter to Governor Fayose via courier last week Wednesday, demanding for unqualified retraction of the very wild and unfounded allegation against her, which was published in various media outlets, including Information Nigeria. The wife of the president gave the Ekiti governor five working days to retract the false statement or be ready for a legal action. It appeared Mr. Fayose chose the latter option as checks revealed that the ultimatum which Mrs. Buhari issued to him demanding a retraction, expired yesterday, Wednesday. It was learnt that as at yesterday night, the Office of the Wife of the President was yet to receive any response from the governor or any of his representatives. Meanwhile, Mrs. Buhari, who is presently in Saudi Arabia for lesser hajj, has yet to formally disclose if she would be giving her lawyers the go ahead to institute legal proceedings against Gov. Fayose in court. Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has not apologised to the wife of president, Aisha Buhari, as demanded by her for linking her to American Congressman William Jeffersons bribery scandal of which the US lawmaker was convicted in 2009. The five-day ultimatum which the presidents wife issued to the governor, demanding an apology, expired yesterday. The media director in the Office of the Wife of the President, Zakari Nadabo, told Daily Trust on the telephone last night that the office had not received any communication from the governor as of 7.00pm yesterday. Nadabo also disclosed that the wife of the president had left for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for lesser hajj. Mrs Buhari, through her lawyers, Ismaila Alasa and Mary Ekpere, described Fasoyes allegation as very wild and unfounded as well as threatened to drag the governor to court if the statement was not retracted within five working days. Source: Daily Trust The Federal Government is set to deploy all the four International Radio Monitoring Stations (IRMS) in strategic locations across the country to counter what it termed illegal radio broadcast insurgents and separatist groups in the country. Boko Haram in the Northeast, recently floated a radio station where it is broadcasting propaganda messages; the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has long before now, been broadcasting divisive messages across the Southeast and parts of the Southsouth while the militant group, Niger Delta Avengers, has been using the internet to spread messages of its destruction of oil and gas installations in the Niger Delta. The Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, who spoke yesterday in a statement signed by his media aide, Victor Oluwadamilare, said the FG is in the process of rehabilitating the moribund IRMS and would thereafter deploy them to counter any radio or internet broadcast capable of undermining the countrys national security. The IRMS facilities are located in Azare, Bauchi State; Gusau in Zamfara State; Ipaja in Lagos State and Ogoja, Cross River State. In the statement, Shittu said the IRMS are strategically located in various parts of the country as security surveillance to monitor radio broadcast activities, so as to guide against illegal use of the radio frequency airspace for unauthorized broadcast by proscribed groups, political and ethnic motivated dissidents. He further said: The Federal Ministry of Communications has adequately appropriated for rehabilitation works on the IRMS facilities across the country in the 2016 Federal Government budget and has consequently warned against any illegal occupation and acquisition of any fraction of land on which these infrastructures are located. The Senate yesterday insisted that the trial of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu, for alleged forgery, was a ploy by the Federal Government to force a leadership change in the upper chamber. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, made the comment in response to a memo by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engr. Babachir David Lawal, that Saraki and Ekweremadu should not create the erroneous impression that the entire Senate is on trial. Mr. Lawal, who issued the memo in reaction to separate statements issued by the Senate president and his deputy, which he described as unfortunate and uncomplimentary to the person and government of President Muhammadu Buhari, said from their statements, the two leaders of the Senate also gave this erroneous impression that by their arraignment, it is the entire Senate and indeed, the Legislative Arm of Government that is on trial. Abdullahi in his response said: We note the statement issued by the Secretary to the Federal Government, Mr. David Babachir Lawal, that the Senate is not the one on trial in the forgery case instituted by the Attorney General of the Federation against the Senate President and his Deputy. We disagree with him on this position and we maintain our earlier stand that it is the Senate that is the target of the present attempt to intimidate the legislature to force a leadership change in the Senate. Mr. Babachir Lawal should tell us how reasonable it is to conclude that when the President of Nigeria and the Vice President are being jointly tried in a suit whose outcome can remove them from office, it is not the Buhari Government that is being targeted. It is also imperative to clearly state that contrary to the claim by the SGF, neither the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki or Senator Ike Ekweremadu was mentioned by the petitioners, the statements by those interviewed by the police or even the police report. Meanwhile, let us refresh Mr. Lawals memory about the facts of the 1999 case. It is obvious that the Senate President and his deputy are not being accused of certificate forgery as it happened in ex-Speaker Salisu Buharis case. Therefore, nobody should compare an apple with an orange. Also, neither Saraki nor Ekweremadu is below the age requirement for their present positions as it was alleged in the Buhari case. Attempts to make the two situations look similar is to present all Nigerians as having no sense of history. We also know that nobody can be accused of forging his own signature. The executive is in no position to determine what is the correct Standing Orders of the Senate. The Senate President and his deputy were as at the morning of the June 9, 2015 inauguration of the Senate mere senators-elect and could therefore not have been in a position to influence any alteration in the rule book. The Senate as an institution, and indeed the National Assembly, has spoken about their understanding of the present assault on their independence by the executive. We maintain that this trial is a design by the Executive to criminalise the internal affairs of the Senate to create a distraction for the leadership of the Senate, force a leadership change and cow the legislators. Those behind this plot find this trial more expedient and important than finding tangible solutions to the multi-various socio-economic problems bedeviling the country. However, we are sure they will fail in this attempt. We only hope they will allow the judiciary to truly and creditably perform its duties and give independent verdict on the case. The immediate past governor of Bauchi State, Mallam Isa Yuguda, has formally left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a telephone interview with journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat in Bauchi on Saturday, Yaguda who was elected on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples party (ANPP) in 2007 but dumped the party in 2009 and defected to the PDP revealed why he decided to leave the PDP. INFORMATION NIGERIA brings you 4 things he said. 1.The former Governor said that the party lacks political will to bring development to Nigeria. 2.That he has lost confidence in the leadership style of PDP and the party has lost focus since the last general election, where the party lost to All Progressive Congress (APC). 3.He said he was yet to decide on which party to join but will consult with his supporters before he decides on the party to move to. He however notred that he will not force any of his supporters to move out of PDP. However, some of them started to destroy their membership cards after the press briefing. 4.Yuguda prayed for President Muhammadu Buhari to succeed in his administration because the holy Quaran admonishes us to do so. Minister of Interior, Lt Gen Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau (Rtd), has condemned prison authorities over the escape of two culpable homicide inmates of Kuje Medium Prison frowning that they negligently relaxed security. Speaking after visiting the prison, the Dambazau who blamed the incident on serious security lapses, stressed that they ignored his warning at his previous visit to the prison to tighten security, warning that government can no longer tolerate the escape of any other prison inmate let alone the two facing homicide case. He said that though he wont want to jump the gun over the fate of the officers responsible for the security lapses, he would rather wait to see what the panel of inquiry set up by the Controller General comes out with before taking action. According to him, We accessed the general security situation following the escape of the two inmates. The last time I was here, I noticed some security lapses in the prison, I made my observation then known to the former CG of prison with the present controller and I told them precisely what to do but unfortunately they did not until this occurred. The Controller General of prison has started investigation into the matter and I will also do everything possible to ensure that we reinforce the security here and also follow the routines very importantly. We need to know princely what to do, the number of inmates in a particular cell, not just in terms of numbers but by their names. I believe that if every officer takes seriously his or duty, things like that will not happen. The prisons are very important in the cabinet justice administration because this is the warehouse and custody of prisoners. The responsibility of the custody lies on ensuring that anybody who passes through the prison does not go back to the society as a criminal. It is a place we rehabilitate the prisoners. So if we leave security gaps, we will never achieve our objective. We are going to take it very seriously to ensure that such did not repeat itself. We will ensure that we enforce security as much as possible. We want to ensure that every prison officer handles his responsibilities the way it should be. It is not a good situation to see two prisoners escape. Not just ordinary prisoners but the ones awaiting trial for murder. It is a very serious issue. Without preempting what the investigative panel will come out with, those security gaps I observed last time I visited which made it possible for the escape must be covered to ensure that things like that did not happen again. It will be difficult to tell you whether heads will roll or not but I would rather wait for the outcome of the report of the panel the CG set up before taking further action, he noted. Source: Sun News The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, led by Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, has denied reports that it was sacked by an Abuja High Court yesterday. The court, presided over by Justice Valentine Ashi, on Wednesday nullified the 2014 PDP constitution amendment upon which Sheriff was appointed PDP acting chairman. Justice Ashi described the purported amendment as illegal and a violation of the Electoral Act, adding that all action carried out on that mandate, including anybody parading as officer of the PDP, is illegal. While the National Caretaker Committee of the party headed by Senator Ahmed Makarfi, with whom Sheriff has been having a leadership tussle with, expressed satisfaction with yesterdays judgment, the latters faction said the court did not sack the former Borno State Governor from office as national chairman of the PDP. The Sheriff faction insisted that the judgment was being misinterpreted. In a statement yesterday by its National Secretary, Prof. Adewale Oladipo, the Sheriff faction said: This is completely false and a clear misrepresentation of the ruling of the court as it never gave any ruling ousting the national chairman. Our attention has been drawn to reports circulating in the media that a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court has ousted the National Chairman of the PDP, Senator Ali-Modu Sheriff. For the avoidance of doubt, the court only heard and delivered judgment on a matter concerning certain amendments in the PDP constitution, which has nothing to do with the election of Senator Ali Modu Sheriff as the national chairman or even that of his predecessor, Alhaji Adamu Muazu. Senator Ali Modu Sheriff was duly elected as the national chairman of the PDP. He still holds office as the national chairman and has not been removed by any court. We therefore urge those misleading the media and the unsuspecting public to desist from such. The media is also urged to always cross-check their facts before going to press. The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has issued a certificate of Return to Uche Ogah as the Abia Governor. This comes after a Federal High Court, sitting in Abuja, annulled the election of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State. The court had also in the same judgement ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to issue a certificate of return to Samson Ogah, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, who contested the governorship ticket with the governor. SEE ALSO: PDP Files Appeal Against Court Judgment Removing Ikpeazu The court held in the June 27th judgement held that Mr. Ikpeazu was guilty of tax evasion and was therefore unqualified to have contested the 2015 governorship election in the state. The court also ordered the governor to vacate office immediately, and hand over to Mr. Ogah, owner of Masters Energy, who came second in the PDP governorship primaries in Abia. These are difficult times for Kenyan socialite Peninah Lema Munyithya, popularly known as Pesh. As you read, the bootylicious Beauty is still in a Kumasi jail after she was busted smuggling drugs into the country in July, 2015. According to Nairobi News, she is one of 5 Kenyans who are being held in Ghana for drug related crimes, the first being back in 2009. Kenyas acting High Commissioner in Nigeria Silas Kiragu confirmed the arrest through communication with Kenyas consular office in Ghana. Peninah Lema Munyithya was arrested on July 9, 2015 for drug trafficking and according to the records at our office, by March 2016 her case was still ongoing and she was yet to be sentenced, Mr Kiragu told Nairobi News on phone from Nigeria. Her socialite career started back in January 2015, thanks to photo sharing site, Instagram. Via the medium, Pesh was able to share nude photos that trended on social media. Within months, she became famous and started embarking on expensive trips around the world. Unfortunately, the long arm of the law caught up with her moments after landing in the West African country in 2015. See more photos she shared on Instagram. One of Nigerias most respected novelists, Captain Elechi Amadi has passed on at the age of 82. A member of his family confirmed that the revered author passed on at a hospital in Port Harcourt on Wednesday night. SEE ALSO: Former Nigerian Minister, Ojo Maduekwe Has Died Elechi Amadi is the author of The Road to Ibadan, The Slave , Estrangement and the Woman of Calabar. Captain Amadi attended Government college , Umuahia and went on to the University college, Ibadan where he studied Physics and Mathematics. He served in the 3rd Marine Commandos of the Nigerian Army and was the first Commissioner for Education in the old Rivers state and also served as Commissioner for Lands and Housing The Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT), Sen. Walid Jubrin, Secretary of ex-PDP Ministers Forum, Abubakar Olanrewaju and a former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, have expressed shock over the death of Chief Ojo Maduekwe. Chief Maduekwe, who was Secretary of the BoT, reportedly slumped inside a vehicle yesterday while returning from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. He was rushed to a private hospital in the Asokoro District of Abuja where he was pronounced dead on arrival by doctors. He was aged 71. In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, Jubrin said he was shocked to learn about the death of Maduekwe. He said that the former Nigerias High Commissioner to Canada passed on at a critical time when the party needed him most. Jubrin said that he was waiting for his secretary in the BoT to return from the U.S where he traveled to, so that they could put heads together to address the current leadership crisis in the party. I learnt with sadness and great shock about the death of this very devoted member of the party, a very dependable member and a very useful member with whom we have worked very closely together. We have been trying our best to find a solution to this problem and it is so sad that Maduekwe died at a very critical moment. It is sad that at this critical moment, Maduekwe had to go and we are definitely going to miss him and his ideas. He meant very well for this party, he meant very well for BoT. He had very fantastic ideas on the way out for our party crisis. Maduekwe has been national secretary of the PDP, he has been a Nigerian ambassador and so, we were utilizing his knowhow in BoT. He did very well for the few months he was in BoT. I will never forget him. I have lost a great partner, Jubrin said. He prayed to God to give members of the deceased family as well as PDP faithful the fortitude to bear this great loss. Speaking in the same vein, Olanrewaju said It is sad that we lost one of our finest men at a crucial time. I am shocked beyond words. He was one of the few conscientious leaders we had left because you cannot buy him with money. This was why we made him the Secretary of the BOT. And until he died, he was committed to the reunification and rebuilding of PDP. We will miss his rare wisdom, integrity, and courage to speak truth to power. In his reaction, ex-Gov. Obi described the deceased as an unusual politician, who was not afraid of his own voice, especially in speaking out on matters bordering on the way forward for the country. If he was brutal at certain points, it was just an insight into the depth of his passion, the ex-governor said. Controversial Catholic Priest, Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka, has decried the desperation by some unnamed persons to drive a wedge between him and President Muhammadu Buhari. The priest was reacting to reports in a section of the media that he made negative predictions about President Buhari following his treatment abroad for a persistent ear infection earlier this month. Rev. Fr. Mbaka, who became friends with the president after he predicted his victory in the 2015 presidential polls at a time others were predicting victory for then President Goodluck Jonathan, said he merely made reference to fears expressed by some Nigerian doctors over the chances of Buhari recovering from his illness. The Spiritual Director of Adoration Ministry, Enugu, Nigeria (AMEN), who spoke through his media aide, Barr. Ike Maximus Ugwuoke, stressed that some Nigerians were trying to cause a needless rift between him and the Presidency. He said: our attention has been drawn to a report in a section of the media alleging that Rev Fr Ejike Mbaka, the Spiritual Director of Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria, said that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari has slim chances of surviving from his ill health. The true fact is that there were media reports, making fuss about Mr Presidents health and insinuating Mr Presidents slim chances of recovering from his ill health, published immediately the president went on vacation. Fr Mbaka referring to the said media report during his prayers for the sick in the ministry prayed with the worshippers of the ministry for Mr Presidents healing and health after which there were lots of testimonies from the sick that were healed. The statement further quoted Rev. Fr. Mbaka as saying that They say the sickness is E.N.T. When it affects, the ear, it affects the nose and affects the neck. We pray for our President and any one that is suffering such a dangerous disease. We lift our healing hands for divine healing upon our president. Wherever he is, may he be healed in Jesus name. The doctors in Nigeria are nursing fear that he may not survive but we have a healing God. His name is specialist in impossibilities. Mbaka noted that some persons were poking their nose in the affairs of the ministry with a view to causing unnecessary rift between the ministry and the Presidency. While we enjoin all patriotic citizens of this country to continue to pray for the good of the nation and her leaders, we reiterate our call on the meddlesome interlopers who busy themselves with arm-twisting issues arising from the ministry for whatever ends to desist from their wild goose chase, have a rethink and rather partake in the blessings imminent in spreading the good news of signs, wonders and miracles of God in the Ministry, he added. Former spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, has expressed support for the present administrations anti-corruption campaign. In a statement on Thursday by his counsel, Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Metuh said that the ex-PDP spokesman has agreed to return the N400 million he allegedly received from the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, to the Federal Government. We want to explain the reasons for our clients proposal to refund the N400 million released to him by former President Goodluck Jonathan, and which was expended on a project approved by the ex-President on national issues relating to his Presidency and the federal government at that time, Ikpeazu said. We want to restate that at the time the money was released to him after his presentation to the ex-President, our client had no knowledge of the source, a fact that is now obvious from the evidence of the prosecution and defence witnesses. Our client had every cause to believe that the money was from the ex-President to whom he made a presentation, received directives and rendered report and accounts accordingly. When the matter first came up, and Chief Metuh was invited to the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) in December 2015, he requested to know the source of the money and expressed his readiness to make refunds if it was from government coffers, not minding that the money had been expended as directed by the former President. Officials at ONSA never got back to him as they promised, until his arrest by the EFCC in January 2016. It was, however while in court that a document was brought regarding the source of the money and since then, our client has made manifest his willingness to refund the money and has indeed approached his family, friends and associates to mobilise funds to refund the entire N400 million to the government regardless of the fact that the money had been expended based on the directives of the former President and that part of the money had been recovered from one of the prosecution witnesses. We want to confirm that since then, we have been in talks with the Ministry of Justice, the EFCC and other necessary bodies on how to refund the money and resolve the issue. Our client occupied no government office. His commitment and dedication to his official duties have been confirmed by even prosecution witnesses. In this whole saga, he has been an unfortunate victim of circumstances. His refunding the money, therefore, goes to show his support for the anti-corruption war as well as serve as a testament to his sincerity, integrity and honesty in this matter. There is no doubt that the prosecution has considerably embarked on some expenses in the course of this case. It is hoped that by not discounting the sum already recovered, whatever cost so far incurred would have been defrayed. By this, a critical objective of recovery of funds would no doubt be achieved. It is pertinent to restate our clients continued support for the anti-corruption campaign, which is necessary to ensure probity in the affairs of Nigeria to the extent that it is conducted within the rule of law. Finally, it is our clients prayer that this nation shall come through this difficult time by the grace of the Almighty God. The recently crowned Miss New Nigeria World 2016, Queen Christiana Kalu, has released her official Photos. The Ebonyi state beauty is an under graduate student at the National Open University, and will represent Nigeria at the Queen and Beauty Universe Pageant in Spain later in the year. See her official photos below. A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Thursday ordered the remand of a former Acting Governor of Adamawa State, Adamu Umaru Fintiri, in Kuje prison, Abuja. His remand order was made by Justice Ahmed Mohammed shortly after Fintiri was arraigned on a five-count charge of money laundering. Fintiri, who was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, earlier this month in connection with the probe of a N1.9billion fraud during his 86 days stint as acting governor, was arraigned on money laundering charges in a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CB/CB/131/2016. Although the former Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him in court, he is to remain in prison custody until Friday when the court will rule on his bail application. Leading mobile telecommunications service provider, MTN Nigeria, yesterday announced the first installment payment of N30bn to the Federal Government, in compliance to the terms of settlement agreed upon by both parties early this month. The payment of N30billion is in addition to the N50billion earlier paid by MTN Nigeria as a sign of good faith, bringing the total fine paid so far by the company to N80 billion out of N330bn fine. The telecom firm has up to 2019 to pay the remaining N250bn, according to the agreement with the government. It would be recalled that the federal government, through the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, slammed a record N1.4trillion fine on MTN Nigeria in October, 2015 for regulatory infraction. However, following high-level talks, the fine was reduced to N330bn by the government on June 10, 2016. SEE ALSO: MTN Agrees To Pay NCC Fine In a statement yesterday by its CEO, Ferdi Moolman, MTN Nigeria expressed delight that the fine imbroglio was amicably settled in the interest of all the parties concerned. I am pleased to announce that the first payment of N30 billion in the terms of settlement has already been disbursed to the NCC. In addition to the earlier payment of N50 billion which we paid in good faith and without prejudice on February 24, this means we have now paid a total of N80 billion, Mr. Moolman said. Meanwhile, the company also confirmed that the NCC has issued the 2.6GHz license to it for a ten-year period after paying N18.96 billion to the regulator. The NCC had earlier declared MTN as winner of the auction for the 2.6GHz band, which guarantees superior performance for wireless networks, especially 4G LTE services. The regulator said the bid by the telecom company was in full compliance with the relevant provisions of the Information Memorandum (IM) for the exercise in which MTN emerged as sole approved bidder. The NCC has described this spectrum as a significant trigger for a broadband revolution that will unlock benefits such as greater coverage, access, affordability and innovation, with the customer at the centre of these gains. In reaction, Moolman said We are very pleased with this development at this time, which is a further step in the right direction for Nigeria. Indeed, MTN is fully aligned and supports the NCCs objective to deliver broadband services to present and future generations of subscribers, in line with the National Broadband Plan of 2013. Traditional rulers across the country have assured President Muhammadu Buhari that those beating the drums of war and disintegration will fail. The president received the assurance yesterday when he hosted prominent traditional rulers across the country to breaking of Ramadan fast at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja. The delegation, led by His Eminence, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar III, included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe; the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Garbai El-Kanemi; Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II; Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar; Gbom Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba; Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo; Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle. In their vote of thanks, which was delivered by the Sultan, the traditional rulers prayed for Gods guidance and good health for President Buhari, saying in order to have the desired peace, all Nigerians must continue to pray for their leaders and the nation. The traditional rulers council will continue to support the president in his drive to leave a legacy that future generation will be proud of, the Sultan assured. He also expressed optimism that with everyones commitment, Nigeria would soon surmount her current challenges. In his remarks, President Buhari charged the nations traditional rulers to encourage their followers to cultivate the lands available, saying Nigeria must be able to feed herself in few years time. You should therefore encourage your followers to get ready and grow enough food to feed ourselves. Tell our people who have lands to cultivate them even if it is to feed their family only. The president informed the royal fathers that he assumed office at a difficult time in the history of Nigeria, with the security and economic challenges. He, however, pointed out that his government was recording progress on security, while blaming the prevailing economic challenge on the neglect of the agricultural sector. Punch The Chairman of the Yoruba Unity Forum, Bishop Bolanle Gbonigi (retd.), says the ongoing court trials of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, are ridiculing the image of the country. Vanguard Hope for Niger Delta Campaign, HNDC, a non-governmental organisation based in The Netherlands, has said that the current attack on oil installations in the Niger Delta region by Niger Delta Avengers, NDA, was not in the interest of the region. Thisday The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several Chinese firms for over $80 billion new investments, spanning five years, in the oil and gas industry covering pipelines, refineries, gas and power, facility refurbishments and upstream financing. The Sun A seven-year-old girl, Faith Ojo, has been confirmed healed of the deadly virus HiV/AIDS by a medical report from the City Medical Diagnostic Centre, Ido-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Her mother, Bosede, claimed Faith became whole after taking anointing oil from the Jesu Omo Dafidi Outreach Ministries of Evangelist Emmanuel Joseph Daily Times The Lagos State Government has shutdown 70 churches, 20 mosques and about 11 hotels, club houses and beer parlours in a move aimed at reducing noise in the state. Guardian The Federal Government has hit back at the Senate President Bukola Saraki and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu, over statements they made last Tuesday after they were arraigned for allegedly forging the Standing Rules of the upper legislative chamber. Daily Trust The Senator Ali Modu Sheriff-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, elected Matthew Iduoriyekemwen as its gubernatorial candidate for the September 10 governorship election in Edo State. National Mirror Ekiti State House of Assembly members yesterday held a sit-out protest over alleged intimidation and harassment of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government in the state by the All Progressives Congress, APC-led Federal Government. The Nation Worried by the increasing number of illegally-operated primary and secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Department of Quality Assurance (QA) FCT Education Secretariat has commenced a sensitization exercise that will lead to the eventual closure of all unregistered schools in the territory. The presidency could not be reached to confirm the arrest of a Body Guard to President Muhammadu Buhari, Coporal Hassan Aminu who is alleged to have a link with Boko Haram sect. There are reports that Aminu had been taken into custody by security operatives for interrogation. Several calls and SMS sent to the presidential media Aide, Mr. Femi Adesina and Mallam Garba Shehu were not answered or replied even as at 8:35 pm. Source: Vanguard Justice J. K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Kano, on Thursday convicted a school teacher, Idris Buhari and sentenced him to 7 years imprisonment for offences bordering on obtaining by false pretence. The convict who was prosecuted on a three-count charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, was arrested following a complaint by Abdullahi Salisu Muhammad alleging that he gave the convict the sum of N500,000 for the processing of Hajj ticket in April, 2012, after he presented himself as a registered travelling agent. But the convict allegedly diverted the funds to his personal use and all efforts to recover the money or get the ticket were futile Part of the charge reads, that you Idris Buhari sometime in April 2012 at Kano within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court with intend to defraud did obtain the sum of N500,000.00 cash from one Abdullahi Salisu Muhammad on the pretence that you are a registered travel agent licensed to provide visa and tickets for intending travellers for the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca which pretence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1a, (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, 2016 and punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act. He pleaded guilty when the charge was read to him. Justice Omotosho consequently convicted and sentenced him to seven years imprisonment. The convict, however, received an option of N200,000 fine considering the fact that he had restituted the victim the sum of N500,000. Source: PMNews A team of Medical Surgeons at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital, Bauchi have constructed a new bladder for an 18 year old cancer patient. The patient Ibrahim Saidu Ibrahim who is a student of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi was diagnosed of carcinoma, a disease in which malignant cancer cells form in the tissues of the bladder. A surgical procedure was carried out on Ibrahim which include the removal of the entire bladder to remove the cancerous tumours and construct a new bladder. This was the final option Ibrahim had to save his life from cancer. The team of doctors was Dr Makama Baje Salihu, the Head of Surgery, ATBUTH Bauchi, Dr Haruna Usman Liman who was the lead surgeon and two other medical professionals who assisted during the surgery. Speaking with the lead surgeon, Dr Haruna Usman, in an interview, he said Ibrahim had a five years history of passage of blood in the urine and was diagnosed with carcinoma, that is cancer of the bladder. He said: When we evaluated Ibrahim, we discovered that he had a mass in the bladder, so he had to go through various screening such as intravenous pyelogram, (series of x-rays of the kidney, ureters and bladder), biopsy (the removal of cell tissues so that they can be viewed under the microscope by a pathologist and Cystoscophy, a diagnosis procedure where a hollow lighted tube is used to look inside the bladder. All these procedures were conducted to establish whether there were cancerous cells or not. In his situation, the aim was to control the tumour from spreading because there was a spread of the tumour into the pipes that link urine between the kidney and bladder The aim of this procedure is to give him the best option because there is no cure for cancer. What we did for him was to control the tumour from spreading and increase his chance of survival and that we have achieved so far. The second part of the procedure was to remove the bladder and refashion a new bladder for him. Source: NationalMirror The two leaders discussed the possible involvement of the international community in investigating violence in South Africa and, in particular, the convening of the Security Council on this issue. Pan African Congress (PAC) President Clarence Makwetu also met with the UN Secretary-General. Also on this day in 2015; Gunmen suspected to be members of Boko Haram Islamic sect, attacked some communities in Chibok and Biu local government areas of Borno State, killing no fewer than 51 people. Those killed were mostly Christian worshippers. Five churches including Cocin, EYN and Deeper Life Bible Church in Kwada village, about 10 kilometres from Chibok were also burnt down when the gunmen laid ambush on them during church service. Suspected armed bandits yesterday raped and killed one Rakiya Ibrahim, a widow with six children, on her farm at Tungan-Dallatu village in Abuja. Rakiya had left her home for her farm on the day of the incident but never returned. Her relatives went to her farm in search for her but found her dead with her mouth filled with sand. Examination of her body showed she was also sexually assaulted. Her body was laid to rest the following morning. Zuba Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ayobami Surajudeen, a Chief Superintendent, confirmed the incident and said the culprits would soon be apprehended. Source: LIB EURUSD Testing Weekly Chart Downchannel Resistance Tradable Patterns - 17 minutes ago The (EURUSD) is consolidating after the strong bounce from the 2022 low (in September), and is at risk of seeing more healthy profittaking today as it bumps up against downchannel resistance (on the weekly... ^EURUSD : 1.00671 (-0.13%) FXE : 93.00 (+1.14%) Red Wednesday for Cotton Market Barchart - Wed Oct 26, 4:50PM CDT The cotton weakness continued through the midweek session, as futures ended the day another 35 to 65 points lower. The @USD fell again on Wednesday and is now 5,193 points (5 handles) below the 9/28 high... CTZ22 : 78.02 (+0.26%) CTH23 : 77.60 (+0.28%) CTK23 : 77.12 (+0.48%) Cattle Futures Firm Up on Wednesday Barchart - Wed Oct 26, 4:50PM CDT Live cattle resumed their upward momentum following the turnaround Tuesday. Futures went home 17 to 32 cents higher at the close. October was the outlier with another 22 cent drop by the bell. Feeder cattle... LEV22 : 151.450s (-0.15%) LEZ22 : 153.575s (+0.18%) LEG23 : 157.025s (+0.21%) GFV22 : 176.425s (-0.10%) GFX22 : 178.825s (+0.51%) Most of the unending debate about healthcare focuses on coverage and how to pay for it, as well as how to lower costs and improve quality. But there's another important aspect of healthcare that rarely makes the front page: how to teach medical providers. Similarly, most of philanthropy's health and medicine dollars go toward laboratory and clinical research into new treatments and cures, and to expand access to care. Rarely do we hear of funders bankrolling innovation of education and curricula for future nurses, doctors and other health workers. That's ironic, since improving medical education was among the first great projects of modern philanthropy a century ago, with the Rockefeller Foundation giving millions for such work. Now, some funders see the need for a new era of investments in this area. Healthcare is changing in lots of ways beyond insurance policies, and educators say academia is not preparing its students for the future of healthcare. "Our traditional, fragmented approach to clinical education is failing to adequately prepare graduates for transition into practice," wrote Judith Halstead, Ph.D., RN, executive associate dean for Academic Affairs at Indiana School of Nursing. She believes nursing schools need to redesign clinical education to teach new models of patient-centered care, evidence-based medicine and to work in interprofessional teams. This is true for doctors, too. In 2013, the American Medical Association launched a medical education reform program with 11 medical schools, the Accelerating Change in Medical Education Consortium. The AMA gave each school a 5-year, $1 million grant to develop new curricula; last year, the AMA funded the addition of 21 more medical schools to the consortium. But one foundation saw this coming. Back in 2010, the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation launched what it says is the first program to accelerate reforms in education for health professionals. Its Macy Faculty Scholars Program funds five health care faculty members each yearup to $100,000 per year for two years. Under the program, the foundation supports educational innovation at each scholar's institution, develop a national network for the scholars and connect them to a National Advisory Committee for continuing career advice. The 2016 cohort of Macy Faculty Scholars includes two nursing school professors and three medical school professors. We haven't previously covered the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation, but they've been around since 1930. Kate Macy Ladd created it in her father's name, intending the foundation to devote itself to the "promotion of health and the ministry of healing." (Don't confuse Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation with the department store company Macy's Inc., which does philanthropy along with its national grantmaking arm, as we've reported.) At 85 years old, the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation may be older than most funders, but in crafting her mission statement, Ladd demonstrated vision that would still be seen as current, even cutting-edge: "Concentrate on a few problems rather than support many undertakings," and use the fund for "integrating functions in medical sciences and medical education for which there seem to be particular need in our age of specialization and technical complexities." Since the 1970s, the foundation says the majority of its grants have gone towards medical and health professional education. Development Initiatives, which focuses on how data can help end extreme poverty, has released its most recent Global Humanitarian Assistance Report. A major highlight of the report is that private donors have been stepping up in a bigger way to address the ongoing human suffering due to the Syrian refugee crisis. As these things tend to go, though, good news is tempered by some not-so-good news. First, lets dig into whats good. The Syria crisis reportedly received the most money in terms of private funding dollars in 2015. This amounted to six percent of total humanitarian funding that year, and was triple the amount targeting the crisis in 2014. Additionally, that number is likely to be higher. According to the report, ...the contribution of domestic and private sector actors is largely absent from this global calculation as is direct giving between individuals. So theres more money out there, but the reports methodology is limited to the 287 NGOs reporting to the UN Office for the Coordination of Human Affairs Financial Tracking Service (UN OCHA FTS). Last year's big bump in funding comes after numerous calls for the global community to do more in response to the worst humanitarian crisis in recent history. Any reader of Inside Philanthropy will know that we've been among those banging the drum. The Ikea, UPS, and Western Union foundations are just a few of the donor mainstays in this spacework which weve covered at length. As well, the Conrad Hilton Foundation, which has historically been attuned to the alleviation of widespread human suffering across the globe, is dialed in here as well. Last year, Hilton awarded five grants for just under $3 million specifically earmarked for Syrian refugees. Its most recent give, $1.9 million awarded at the end of 2015, went to support education for Syrian refugee children living in Turkey. Related: There have also been a few surprise donors that have jumped in lately to help as well. I would be remiss here if I didnt bring up Hamdi Ulukaya and Sezgin Baran Korkmaz. Ulukaya,the Turkish-born founder of Chobani yogurt, pledged $2 million to the UNHCR and IRC the aid Syrian refugees. Turkish businessman and philanthropist, Sezgin Baran Korkmaz donated $20 million to Relief International in support its five-year plan to provide humanitarian relief to children impacted by the ongoing conflict in Syria. Also worth mentioning is the philanthropic arm of the global financial services firm JP Morgan Chase & Company, which doesnt typically support global humanitarian relief efforts, but pledged up to $2 million last yearin support of various INGOs that are providing lifesaving resources such as food, water, and medical support to refugees arriving in Europe and the Middle East. Related: Also noteworthy, in April of this year, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria contributed just over $400,000 to the Regional Refugee and Resilience Plan (3RP), a consolidated leadership framework that addresses the needs of Syrian refugee host communities in Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt and Iraq. A final note on the good news front is the notable overall shift in private sector priorities in the humanitarian funding space. Historically, private funders have responded more generously to sudden onset emergencies, such as those cause by natural disasters or events like the recent El Nino weather pattern and the Ebola crisis, than they have to protracted, conflict related crises. Think about it. When the Ebola crisis hit, Paul Allen alone committed to at least $100 million to the crisis. According to Development Initiatives 2015 humanitarian assistance report from non-state donors, The historical trend for private donors to respond more favorably to disasters caused by natural hazards than to conflict-driven emergencies has been interrupted by the Syria crisis, which received the most reported private funding in 2015. Thats the kind of priorization we'd hope for. While theres a lot of positive movement here, not all of the news is good. One of the most alarming patterns is the ongoing funding shortfall. Regardless of uptick in private donations, the UN is reporting a shortfall of nearly $9 billion, which represents 45 percent of all humanitarian funding appeals made by the organization. In context of the Syria crisis, according to the UN OCHA FTS, only 26 percent of appeals are currently funded, leaving a shortfall of over $5.7 billion. Theres one small caveat here. According to the report, ...the majority of private funding for the Syria crisis was allocated outside of the UN coordinated appeals and was channeled through non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This unlike funding received from governments, which is generally dedicated to UN appeals. And while on the one hand, its good that Syria is one of the five crises that accounted for more than 50 percent of all fundingthe other four crises included those in Yemen, South Sudan, Iraq, and Sudanthat means other global emergencies continue to fall by the wayside. One other highlight of this data to note is that individual funders have been in the lead over recent years in responding to humanitarian crises. A 2010 to 2014 review of different private donor type revealed that donations from trust, foundations or the private sector accounted for around 31 percent of all private funding, while donations from individuals accounted for around 69 percent. A last finding to note is that local NGOswhich often are on the front lines of helping refugeesreceived just 0.5 percent of all humanitarian aid funding in 2015. Im not going to get too deep into that, as one of the results of the World Humanitarian Summit was a commitment by donors to increase funding to local agencies by 25 percent. Well have to see how that shakes out in the coming year. Related: This Funder is Thinking Locally To Deal With a Global Humanitarian Crisis So whats does all of this mean? Boiled down, I think there are two major takeaways here. First, more donors are definitely paying attention to the Syrian refugees crisis, as we've been hoping they would. This isnt the only ongoing crisis taking place in the world, but it is arguably the largest. Syria by the way, received nearly one-third of total humanitarian aid funding in 2015. Second, the humanitarian aid ecosystem is fractured and the old model doesnt completely fit into todays landscape. But that doesnt necessarily mean that its completely broken. Events like the World Humanitarian Summit and deep data dives like the Global Humanitarian Assistance Report are helping to highlight the need for an evolution in international humanitarian aid. Related: Follow Up: Where the World Humanitarian Summit Shined and Where it Came Up Short These events and reports arent magic bullets, but at the very least, they are highlighting whats working and whats not. And all this talk and all these numbers may not mean much in terms of immediately alleviating the suffering of the 65 million people around the world displaced by conflict or addressing the estimated $14.3 trillion (2014) in global economic loss due to conflict and violencebut its a start. In his own quiet way, Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist, is among the more intriguing figures of the tech world. Not only has he never really joined the mad scramble for big wealth, Newmark never much changed the early formula of the classifieds website he founded back in 1995which, some 20 years later, still very much looks like a site from the 1990s. But rest assured that Newark is making plenty of money. He is said to be the largest stakeholder of the privately held Craigslist, which reportedly had 2015 profits of some $300 million. As we've previously reported, he's channeling some of these winnings to philanthropy. Related: IP profile of Craig Newmark On his website Craigconnects, Newmark lists a few of the organizations he supports, and those where he serves on the board. These commitments reveal an interest in things like journalistic integrity, community building and net neutrality. We've also noted Newmark's interest in veterans and education. However, like the site that made him wealthy, this tech entrepreneur is mainly interested in connecting people. Craigconnects doesn't just list nonprofits Newmark is involved in, it also nurtures and publicizes them so that others might hop aboard, too. As Newmark puts it: Beyond that, Ive learned a lot that can be applied to the common good and Im doing that on this site. I dont expect to be a leader with this thing. Id rather be a builder. Id like to build a way for people doing good work to connect, to learn from each other, protect each other, and then I want to get out of their way. In that vein, Newmark recently donated $50,000 to fund scholarships at the University of San Francisco (USF). The funds will be awarded to students in the USF in D.C. program, which immerses them in "the unique political and social culture of the nations capital." USF in D.C. is a program operated by the University of San Francisco's Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good, which is dedicated to inspiring and preparing students for careers of ethical public service. Selected students not only participate in internships, they also reside at the UC Washington Center, with like-minded students from other UC campuses, as well as University of Michigan, Notre Dame, and University of Pennsylvania. Faculty also hail from multiple schools. Newmark has been on the board of the McCarthy Center for nearly a decade. As he puts it, "The McCarthy Center helps people in San Francisco neighborhoods in the here and now, and it also educates potential neighborhood leaders for long-term civic engagement. Everybody wins." Though a New Jersey native who then attended Case Western, Newmark moved west and launched Craiglist a stone's throw away from University of San Francisco; it makes sense that the Bay Area resident would be interested in fostering leaders in his community. More than that, though, Newmark's involvement with the McCarthy Center and his recent gift supporting scholarships, seems consistent with his role as a builder and facilitator. Other programming by the McCarthy Center includes Advocates for Community Engagement (ACE), which "develops socially responsible, civically engaged student leaders who facilitate quality service-learning experiences for all stakeholders and advocate for the common good of the community." USF in D.C., meanwhile, has provided internships with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's Office, House Judiciary Committee, United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, and Center for American Progress, among others. Up to ten students will be awarded a $5,000 Newmark Scholarship in the 2016-17 academic year. Students are required required to complete a full-time internship, where they work at government offices and advocacy groups. Finally, it's worth noting that Newmark has also supported Aspen Institute's Partners for a New Beginning, which aims to foster "public private partnerships that advance entrepreneurship, exchange, increase educational opportunity and support science and technology." Newmark is also on the board of Points of Light, the worlds largest organization dedicated to volunteer service. By Murphy Klasing Its not uncommon for a self-storage operator to discover documents or records in a delinquent or abandoned unititems such as birth certificates, diplomas, legal or medical records, and other papers that have no financial worth but still have value under the law or to the former tenant. So what do you do when you discover such paperwork? Let's take a look at some solutions. Protect Yourself First, be cautious when renting to a commercial customer who intends to store records in his unit. Some facility rental agreements state that storage units arent suitable for the storage of data, legal or medical documents, or other records. If your lease contains this language, don't rent to someone who plans to store such items. If the lease is silent with regard to records, just understand going in that your lien on the property isnt worth much and can present a sticky liability situation. Reach Out to Authorities Medical records contain sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, dates of birth and, of course, medical information. Fortunately, the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act doesnt require a self-storage operator to safeguard such documents from distribution or publication. The tenant is responsible for properly disposing of such records. Nevertheless, consider a scenario in which medical files are found in an abandoned or delinquent unit. Upon preparing for auction, you discover its full of sensitive documents. You know no one will bid on them, so you decide to throw them away. Someone passes by your dumpster, retrieves multiple files, and then uses the information to open bank accounts and credit cards. He also reads a file he finds humorous and posts it on Facebook. Now you have people suing you for exposing their information to the public. Fortunately, the law is on the side of the self-storage operator, as the records arent your responsibility. That doesn't mean, however, that a judge will throw out the case or you won't face a tough (i.e., expensive) legal battle. If you find medical records, call your states medical board and ask for help. They may request that you send them the records or even shred them. They may also call the delinquent tenant and put pressure on him to pay his storage bill and move out. If that doesn't work, do your best to protect the sensitive information in the files. Always think like a jury. Ask yourself, "If a disinterested person heard about what I did with these records, would he think my actions were justified?" Take Reasonable Action One of my clients recently auctioned a storage unit rented by an attorney. The lawyer had been suspended by the state bar, and the space contained the entire contents of his office, including all of his business records. Although the unit was sold, the facility operator retained 80 boxes of what appeared to be legal files and allowed the tenant to reclaim them free of charge. This was a reasonable act on behalf of the storage company, but the attorney sued anyway, claiming the sale wasnt performed properly. The jury was impressed that the operator went out of his way to protect the tenant's documents even though he had no obligation to do so. Wearing the "white hat" is always better than having to defend actions that, although justified by the law, seem malicious. Once you auction a unit, any documents found among the contents are the property of the winning bidder, and its his responsibility to properly dispose of any sensitive information. However, in the case of an abandoned unit, its good practice to dispose of any documents via shredding to protect the data. Go the Extra Mile Self-storage operators in the throes of litigation often express things like, But the contract says," or "The law gives me the right to" Hes usually correct, but juries are made up of non-lawyers. Although I have faith that most juries will follow the law as instructed by the court, theyre more likely to side with you over the consumer when youve taken that extra step to do the right thing, even when the law doesn't require it. When you follow the law but doing so results in an unnecessarily heartless act, juries tend to consider the consumer's complaint a little more closely. In summary, don't just toss records because you can. Look at each situation and determine what's best for you, the person identified in the records, and your tenanteven if hes the one in the wrong. Murphy Klasing, an attorney with the law office of Weycer, Kaplan, Pulaski & Zuber P.C., has a wide range of appellate, arbitration and trial experience, successfully handling numerous litigation matters. With more than a decade of experience in the self-storage industry, he serves as counsel for Public Storage Inc. in Texas, and has defended matters involving allegations of breach of contract, code violations, employment issues, fraud, negligence, personal injury, premises liability, and theft. To reach him, call 713.961.9045; e-mail [email protected]; visit www.wkpz.com. David James Brown, an Indiana pastor accused of soliciting sex with a minor, was found dead on Monday inside a unit at an Attic Self Storage facility near Marietta, Ga. Police in Cobb County, Ga., are investigating the case as a suicide, according to a source. Browns body was discovered around noon. No details surrounding his death were reported. Brown, 46, was arrested June 15 after he arranged to meet with an undercover officer from a cyber-crimes unit, who was posing as an underage boy. Brown planned the meeting in Frankfort, Ky., to engage in sex acts with the person he thought was a minor, Kentucky Attorney General Andy Beshear told a source. Brown and the officer conversed through the messaging app Kik. Brown was the senior pastor for First Christian Church in Jeffersonville, Ind. He was put on leave following his arrest, a source reported. A preliminary hearing in the case had been scheduled for Tuesday. Browns body was taken to the Cobb County Medical Examiners office for an autopsy. Attic Self Storage operates 11 facilities in Georgia, four of which are in Marietta. Denmark-based Pelican Self Storage has opened a new facility in the Toolo area of Helsinki. Although finishing touches are still being conducted at the property between Meilahti Hospital and Helsinki Ice Hall, the business began accepting tenants on June 27, according to the source. The property is Pelicans 15th facility in the Helsinki market. There is a lot of demand both in the city center and the suburbs, facility manager Stefan Wennstrom told the source. The cellars in many apartment buildings close to the city center are small or are being turned into public areas like laundry rooms and saunas. Apartments are also getting built into attics, so there are a lot of people living in the center with little or almost no storage space; so theres a definite demand. Units at the Toolo facility range from 1 to 100 square meters. The site features keycode access, onsite management and surveillance cameras. A staff member is on call to handle emergencies after 10 p.m. Some services, such as package delivery, may be scheduled after hours as well. If there's a customer who has a special request, for example a late shipment coming, then it is possible for them to contact the site to organize access, even in the middle of the night, Wennstrom said. We just need to get the info in advance. Pelican Self Storage was founded in Denmark in 2009 and opened its first Finland facility in 2010. It operates eight facilities in Denmark. Reginald Tucker New York State Common Retirement Fund Its been a difficult few years for hedge funds and public pension plans. A roaring equity market, disappointing returns for most hedge fund strategies and a focus on fees at a time when public pension plans are coming under fire for the pressure their obligations put on state and local budgets have created a toxic stew. Yet hedge fund investments, and the sources of alpha they can provide, remain important for institutional investors. Rather than reject the promise of hedge funds entirely, some forward-thinking institutions regard them not as an asset class but as one of many fund structures that can deliver differentiated forms of alpha. Reginald Tucker is charged with finding just those sorts of atypical return opportunities for the $180 billion New York State Common Retirement Fund, wherever they might be. A graduate of New York Universitys Stern School of Business, where he earned a BA in business administration, Tucker began his career in 1997 as a trader with Citigroup in New York. He received his MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania as a Robert Toigo Fellow, class of 2006. Upon graduation he managed money for a private investment fund before landing a job in 2010 as an investment officer in alternatives for the Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds. With a mandate that included real estate, private equity and hedge funds, Tucker helped to implement the $29 billon pension systems first hedge fund portfolio. He was also the in-house person responsible for building up the plans emerging-managers alternative investment program. In 2013, Tucker, 40, joined New York State Common as senior investment officer for its opportunistic investment portfolio. He has an open mandate to commit capital across all asset classes and strategies including using hedge funds. Visit the 2016 Hedge Fund Rising Stars: Ivy League Schools Pave the Way for more. Robin Diamonte knew that something had to be done. After joining United Technologies Corp., a manufacturer for the aerospace and building industries, as CIO in 2004, Diamonte set out to improve the companys defined benefit plan. When the global financial crisis of 200809 sapped employees retirement saving plans by 30 percent, she turned her attention to making Farmington, Connecticutbased UTCs defined contribution offering as close to a defined benefit pension as possible. Her changes to the 401(k) plan included a lifetime income feature, automatic contribution increases of up to 10 percent and the lowest fees in corporate America. But Diamonte grew tired of watching retiring and separating plan participants become fodder for call centers trolling to open new IRA accounts. To counter this pressure, she and her peers at International Paper Co. and IBM Corp. have launched campaigns to inform employees of their choices when it comes to their 401(k) accounts. For Diamonte it began several years ago, when UTC offered employees a voluntary early retirement program. She was alarmed to see a billboard on Interstate 95 near company headquarters advising staff to close their UTC retirement plans and move the money to an IRA sponsored by a local brokerage. We said, This is crazy; we have to do something about this, Diamonte recalls. In response to the billboard, a UTC attorney fired off an e-mail to the brokerage that effectively said, We dont think the Department of Labor would like this. The brokerage took down the highway ad, but scattershot fixes wont stop such vendors from trying to persuade defined-contribution-plan participants that IRA rollovers are the best way to manage their retirement assets. Late last year UTC began giving departing employees a brochure with the headline, Youre leaving United Technologies. But your money in the UTC Savings Plan doesnt have to. The brochure outlines four choices: Keep your money where it is (retaining the customized mix of low-cost investment options); roll it over to a qualified plan of a new employer; roll it over to an IRA; or withdraw the money. Diamonte faces an uphill battle. As U.S. defined contribution assets have grown to trillions of dollars, brokerages and mutual fund firms big and small have responded with aggressive efforts to vacuum up the 401(k) assets of separating and retiring employees. Television commercials advising viewers to leave their old 401(k) and move their money into an IRA account are ubiquitous. Thats whats alarming to me, says Robert Hunkeler, vice president of investments at Memphis, Tennesseebased International Paper, referring to the large number of IRA rollovers. People are rolling out of the protected 401(k) environment to an unprotected retirement plan. The protection that Hunkeler cites is the fiduciary status of a corporate retirement plan sponsor like International Paper. As many private sector defined benefit plans were shuttered in the 2000s, Hunkeler and his peers at other large U.S. companies spent years crafting superior defined contribution plans to make up for the loss of a pension. But the advantages of these plans can disappear when investors switch to a more expensive IRA account. With a value of $7.3 trillion at the end of 2015, IRA assets outweighed defined contribution plans $6.7 trillion (out of a total $24 trillion in U.S. retirement assets), according to the Investment Company Institute, a Washington-based trade association. People who keep their money in the [International Paper] plan are a distinct minority, says Hunkeler, who last year enlisted the aid of a behavioral economist to write a letter urging employees to stay in the company 401(k). Eighty percent of retirees have taken their assets elsewhere; he wants to see 80 percent stay. The Department of Labors new fiduciary rule, which compels retirement plan vendors to act in a fiduciary capacity rather than push people to invest in something that isnt in their best interest, could help to tip the balance. As we see the industry change with the new DoL fiduciary regulation, we expect there will be more education on rollovers and comparison of your current plan relative to other employers or rolling into an IRA, says Sabrina Bailey, global head of defined contribution at Northern Trust Asset Management in Chicago. The DoL rule was passed this April, partly thanks to a 2013 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) showing that the rollover process favors distributions to IRAs. Another finding: Labor regulations dont ensure that 401(k) plans provide complete and timely information to participants on all of their distribution options. Hunkeler, Diamonte and Raymond Kanner, IBMs newly departed CIO, aim to address this shortcoming with their educational campaigns. The most worrisome finding in the GAO report was exposed by undercover work. Pretending to be separating employees, agency staff phoned retirement plan providers. Through recorded conversations published on the GAO website, staff learned that plan participants are often subject to biased information and aggressive marketing of IRAs when seeking assistance and information regarding what to do with their 401(k) plans. Some 401(k) plan participants already know when its best to stick with their former employers offering. One of them is Charles Van Vleet, who left UTC in 2013 to head the investment office of Providence, Rhode Islandbased industrial manufacturer Textron as CIO and assistant treasurer. UTCs well-designed, low-cost lifetime income retirement plan feature has helped motivate Van Vleet to keep his nest egg in Farmington. As an investment professional, he knows more than the average employee about how to manage retirement assets. The big question for Diamonte, Hunkeler and Kanner: How long will it take for others to catch on? Perus new president faces a Congress controlled by the party of his rival, Keiko Fujimori; infrastructure is one area where they may agree. Peru is the latest country in Latin America, following Colombia and Argentina, to elect a U.S.-educated, business-oriented president. But the narrow margin of victory by Pedro Pablo Kuczynski who edged out Keiko Fujimori, daughter of imprisoned former president Alberto Fujimori, by less than a quarter of a percentage point in the June runoff and the fact that the opposition controls the congress will pose a stern test. At least Kuczynski will inherit one of Latin Americas most vibrant economies when he takes office in late July. Growth is expected to rise to 3.7 percent this year from 3.3 percent in 2015 notwithstanding a dependence on mining at a time of continued commodity price weakness. The 77-year-old Oxford and Princeton grad, known as PPK, is a former World Bank economist and investment banker who served as Finance minister and then prime minister from 2004 to 2006. Markets are going to be comfortable with him, says Jan Dehn, London-based head of research at Ashmore Group, an emerging-markets investment firm. Kuczynskis Peruvians for Change party holds just 18 of the 130 seats in the newly elected congress, while Fujimoris Popular Force has 73 seats. Hes only going to be able to do what Keiko also wants to do, Dehn says. Infrastructure is one area of broad agreement. Both Kuczynski and Fujimori called for increasing public spending on infrastructure as a means of boosting growth, notes Maria Luisa Puig, a Latin America analyst for Eurasia Group in London. Dehn suggests looking to neighboring Colombia as a model of turning to the private sector to invest in and manage infrastructure projects, which would help Perus government avoid the corruption scandals and mismanagement that often plague the sector. I think well see quite a lot of effort on infrastructure investment, Dehn says. With macroeconomic policy already stabilized, the question for investors and Peruvians becomes how quickly will the government be able to move forward with launching these projects and attracting foreign investment? But fiscal policy in general may be contentious. Kuczynski wants to reduce sales taxes to encourage consumer spending and to provide tax incentives for foreign direct investment; Fujimori had promised to rescind corporate tax cuts implemented by the outgoing president, Ollanta Humala, while cutting taxes for small businesses. Kuczynski also needs to win the support of indigenous communities for fresh foreign investment in mining projects. Such investment has slowed since Humala in 2011 signed a law requiring investors to consult with indigenous peoples before developing mining projects on their land. He wants to do whats good for business but not at the expense of indigenous communities, Dehn says. Indigenous people make up about half of Perus 31 million citizens, including tribes in the remote Amazonian region who have only recently begun making contact with outsiders. By late June, Kuczynski had appointed only one cabinet member, naming Alfredo Thorne, a former World Bank economist and head of Latin America research at J.P. Morgan, as his Finance minister. Thorne will play a key role in trying to step up infrastructure and mining projects. Kuczynski has also said that he would like the current central bank president, Julio Velarde, to serve a third five-year term. We wished he came in with a majority, because then it would be exciting, Dehn says. Perus bad luck is that it is stuck with a divided government that may get in the way of its economic potential. Get more on emerging markets. Cover-More Group has announced a key hire for their international business.The insurer has strengthened its team as it looks to expand through our the United States and Canada.Mark Linton will join the North American business as head of sales following the decision to appoit Carole Tokody as CEO of the US & Canada business.Tokody will relocate with the firm to their North American office in New York and will overs Linton.Mark will report directly to Carole Tokody and will be responsible for the sales of travel insurance and ancillary products and services in the US and Canadian markets, Cover-More said in a statement.Marks significant experience includes 15 years with RBC Insurance where he managed a national sales team, maintaining and acquiring numerous large national and regional accounts. Willis Towers Watson and IAG have announced a ground-breaking partnership in a bid to strengthen their ties with the startup community in Australia, Insurance Business can exclusively reveal.The insurance powerhouses unveiled a new insurance solution, called StartUpCover, designed to help start-up businesses address their insurance and business needs, at an event held at fintech hub Stone & Chalk in Sydney yesterday.The StartUpCover insurance solution includes a website, on which business owners have the ability to obtain an indicative quote for their insurance needs, as well as the option to request a phone call from a Willis Towers Watson insurance professional for a discussion concerning their more detailed needs.We cannot underestimate the success of the Australian fintech community, Scott Gunther, customer & partner insights for IAG told Insurance Business.Gunther noted that IAG and Willis Towers Watson came together in open collaboration using data and insights to get to grips with the growing market and how insurance fits with Australias most innovative businesses.Being very much driven by customer insight, we used a lot of data and analytics to deeply understand the characteristics, the size of the market and where these customers actually were, not just in micro-SMEs but SMEs more broadly, Gunther continued.We also then went and actually listened to customers - and this is where a lot of that customer experience and research comes in - to actually understand how they wanted to research insurance, how they wanted to get quotes, how they wanted to buy, how they wanted to engage, what are the channels, , how simple they want it to be.One of things that we have been quite open with the industry [about] is taking IAGs customer insights and actually openly sharing [them] as we see that as our opportunity to actually help the industry moving forward.If we do listen to our customers in an ever-changing environment then everybody has got an opportunity to succeed: not just the broking network and not just the insurers, but more importantly, the customers which are the SMEs and the businesses.SMEs form the traditional backbone of many broking businesses and Brent Lehmann,Willis Towers Watsons regional head (Australasia) of affinity & commercial, told Insurance Business that they see the launch of StartupCover as a way to bring SMEs and micro-SMEs back into the broker fold.The environment is changing so much and people still need the independent nature of advice. You only have to look at how much the world, the environment continues to change, Lehmann said.We were having a conversation with a different carrier last week and we were talking about the distribution of product today, versus having the same conversation three to five years ago, and that is a totally different conversation and that is going to change again in the next three to five years if not sooner.To be able to have these partnerships that we do, and building these propositions like weve got with StartupCover, not only are they exciting but they are actually a way to embrace the future and try to attack what we think is going to be digital disruption head on and be part of it, not be a victim to it.StartUpCover will offer businesses a range of insurance and educational services in a bid to steer them through their lifecycle across multiple challenges, whether insurance-related or not.What we are trying to do here is actually create an active community that we want to be a driver, and advise through that community irrespective of whether it is actually insurance-related or not, Lehmann continued.When we first headed down this path, the question we asked ourselves had nothing to do with insurance at all, it was actually about how we can help start-ups grow their business.What we knew was that insurance was only one component but there is so much education and advice required, yes it overlays insurance, but how can we actually be that advisory and consultancy partner to help them grow their business and that is how it was created and grown from scratch.Gunther stressed that the new partnership and solution will be key to educate small businesses and fledging startups about the benefits of insurance coverage and how it can help grow businesses.I think also a really insightful piece, as weve gone back through, is insurance has always been seen as that necessary evil or that grudge purchase, but when you are actually a startup and you are going through your business there actually will be a need for the client to actually see that you have got professional indemnity cover, that you may have the different liability covers that are required for you to actually win that contract and provide that service, Gunther continued.One of the things about that education and advice is actually helping startup businesses understand that this is actually a key for you to be successful, do well at winning that client and growing that client, and if youve done that, your business grows.Thats where we have seen the education part, it is not a necessary evil, it is actually an enabler and that is one of the key things the advice model has evolved to include.The StartupCover website is now live and can be accessed at www.startupcover.com.au New Jersey property/casualty insurer NJM Insurance Group announced that Mitchell A. Livingston has been promoted to executive vice president and corporate counsel. Livingston, who is also a member of NJMs board of directors, is responsible for leading the companys strategic planning efforts, while also heading-up NJMs commercial lines sales, service and underwriting divisions, which include the states largest workers compensation book of business. He also oversees NJMs Human Resources Department and Special Investigations Unit. Livingston, formerly a director of the law firm of Sterns & Weinroth, joined NJM in 2006 as a staff attorney and following a series of promotions was named senior vice president and corporate counsel in 2013, the same year he was elected to the NJM board. NJM also announced the retirement of two board members and several other staff promotions. Retiring from the NJM board are long-time directors James M. Seabrook and Thomas S. Marotta. A former chairman of NJMs Board, Seabrook has been a board member for 30 years. Marotta first joined the NJM board in 1995. Regarding staff promotions, Steven B. Goldman, Daniel A. Toadvine, and Robert D. Weaver were named assistant vice presidents; Cam Maio was promoted to director of Marketing and Loretta Kreutzberg was promoted to manager, Program Management Office. Goldman joined NJM in 1990 as an auto claims representative before moving to commercial lines sales in 1999. He was promoted to manager, Commercial Lines Sales/Policyholder Services in 2010 and to director in 2013. Toadvine joined NJM in 1999 as an attorney in the auto claims legal department. Prior to joining the company, he worked at ASCS/Penn Independent Corp. and Robert C. Gibson and Associates. Toadvine was promoted to a manager, claims counsel in 2006 and to director in 2011. Weaver joined NJM in 1994 as a customer service representative. He was promoted to senior business analyst in IT in 2001 and to business relationship specialist in 2004, resulting in a move to the companys Cash Management Department. He was promoted to business process administrator in 2006 and to manager, Cash Management in 2010 before he was named assistant treasurer in 2013. Maio joined NJM in 2014, having most recently served as director of Strategic Marketing at Plymouth Rock Corp. His previous work experience included roles as vice president of Sales and Marketing at A.K. Stamping, BeCu Manufacturing and P&R Fasteners. Kreutzberg was a programmer/analyst at Applications General Corp. in Princeton prior to joining NJM in 2001 in a similar position. That same year, she was promoted to senior programmer analyst and, in 2002, to lead programmer analyst. In 2010 she was named administrator, Business Solution Delivery. NJM is New Jerseys leading writer of workers compensation insurance and among the leaders in personal and commercial auto, and homeowners insurance. New Yorks highest court has upheld court judgments against a steam valve manufacturer, citing its failure to warn of the dangers of using its valves with gaskets and packing that contain asbestos. The Court of Appeals rejected Crane Co.s argument that it isnt responsible for warning about the dangers of other companies asbestos products. Widows of a former Navy boiler technician and an ex-pipefitter at a General Motors plant who died from asbestos-related cancer after years of exposure changing gaskets and packing won jury awards of $8 million and $3 million. The court said the duty to warn applies to the known and foreseeable joint use of its product and another product that is necessary to allow the manufacturers product to work as intended. Topics Legislation New York Police said a workers hard hat likely saved his life after he was hit by a falling steel beam at a suburban Syracuse, New York construction site. Officials told The Post-Standard of Syracuse that officers responded around 11 a.m. Monday to a report of a man injured at a work site on Thompson Road in the town of DeWitt. Police said that a smaller corner beam from a larger bundle of beams had dropped and struck the worker and his hard hat. He suffered serious injuries and was taken to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, where hes listed in stable condition. Police said hes expected to survive. The accident occurred where a new gas station convenience store is being built off Carrier Circle. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Training Development Construction John Haley, who merged his U.S. consulting firm with an insurance broker this year to form London-based Willis Towers Watson Plc, said the company is well-equipped to deal with disruption from U.K. voters decision to leave the European Union. In the short term, there could be some real potential for upside on helping companies with some what-if planning, through the consulting arm that advises corporate clients, Haley, who is chief executive officer of the combined firm, said in a conference call Wednesday with investors. Typically, our business benefits from regulatory changes, political risk or economic uncertainty. Haley is seeking to reassure shareholders as many CEOs are discussing the possibility of scaling back in the U.K. The deal to join his Arlington, Virginia-based Towers Watson & Co. with insurance broker Willis Group Holdings Plc in London diversified operations and brought tax advantages. Executives in financial services have been reassessing the value of being in the U.K. after the Brexit vote that could lead to more trade barriers and hinder recruitment efforts. The CEO acknowledged that the disruption will present challenges. Some clients may defer projects because of uncertainty over the terms of the exit. Also, a weaker economy could pressure revenue from Williss traditional role as a middleman between insurers and their corporate customers, Haley said. Rival broker Aon Plc, which moved to London from Chicago four years ago, said before the vote that a Brexit would threaten the U.K.s centuries-long leadership in the insurance industry. Share Rebound Willis Towers Watson plunged 8.3 percent to $117.01 Friday, the first day of trading after the U.K. results were announced, and fell further on Monday. Shares climbed 1.9 percent to $119.77 as of 2:07 p.m. in New York [on Wednesday]. Haley stressed the companys global reach. The firm has 39,000 employees in more than 120 countries. We also pride ourselves on being a company that has the agility and the nimbleness to be able to, not just to respond to change, but to prosper in it, he said. With assistance from Katherine Chiglinsky Related: Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. Topics Europe Willis Towers Watson London Toyota Motor Corp has recalled 3.37 million cars worldwide over possible defects involving air bags and emissions control units. The automaker on Wednesday said it was recalling 2.87 million cars over a possible fault in emissions control units. That followed an announcement late on Tuesday that 1.43 million cars needed repairs over a separate issue involving air bag inflators. About 930,000 cars are affected by both potential defects, Toyota said. Because of that overlap, it said the total number of vehicles recalled was 3.37 million. No injuries have been linked to either issue. Toyota on Wednesday said evaporative fuel emissions control units in models produced from 2006 to 2015 including the Prius, Auris compact hatchback and Corolla were prone to cracks, which could lead to fuel leaks over time. Of the 2.87 million vehicles recalled due to the emission control units, Toyota said 1.55 million are in Japan; 713,000 in Europe; 35,000 in China; and 568,000 in other areas. Late on Tuesday it recalled Prius models and Lexus CT200h cars made from 2010 to 2012 over air bag inflators that could have a small crack in a weld, which could lead to the separation of the inflator chambers. Of the 1.4 million vehicles recalled over the air bag inflators, 482,000 are in the U.S. market. The inflator could partially inflate and enter the vehicle interior, increasing the risk of injury, Toyota said. Sweden-based auto safety gear maker Autoliv Inc confirmed on Wednesday that it supplied the air bag inflators involved. Autoliv said about 90 percent of the affected inflators were in Prius cars. Autoliv said it was aware of seven incidents where a side curtain air bag has partially inflated in parked Toyota Prius cars, but no injuries were reported. Autoliv has benefited from an earlier recall involving faulty air bag inflators made by Japans Takata. The company said in an April regulatory filing that it was investigating six incidents related to its air bags and a possible recall could cost it between $10 million-$40 million, net of expected insurance recoveries. Autoliv said on Wednesday it expected the cost of recall to be at the lower end of the range. The companys U.S.-listed shares were down 3.6 percent at $106.06 [on Wednesday].The stock fell as much as 16 pct to 765 Swedish kronas on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, their lowest since December 2014. Toyota Motors U.S. listed shares reversed losses earlier in the day to close up 1.7 percent on Wednesday at $101.52. (Additional reporting by Ankit Ajmera in Bangalore and Bernie Woodall in Detroit; editing by Sandra Maler and Don Sebastian) Topics USA Allianz Real Estate is set to make its biggest Asian investment to date, in a first step toward adding as much 3 billion euros ($3.3 billion) of real estate in the region within three years. The $150 million pan-Asian fund investment will allow Allianz SEs property unit to test the water before buying buildings directly, Francois Trausch, chief executive officer of Allianz Real Estate, said in an interview at the companys headquarters in Munich last week. The fund owns Chinese and Japanese assets. There will be volatility, but we believe in the long-term trends in Asia, said Trausch, 51. China and India would be the two countries to anchor our Asia strategy. Property investors, including sovereign wealth funds, insurers and private-equity firms, poured a record 179 billion renminbi ($27 billion) into Chinese commercial properties in 2015, about 51 percent more than a year earlier, according to data compiled by Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. Shanghai was Chinas most active market, JLL said. Asian cities may attract even more capital in the wake of the U.K.s decision to leave the European Union, according to CBRE Group Inc. Allianz plans to make direct acquisitions within a few years. The firm manages about 100 million euros of properties in Asia, compared with more than 40 billion euros of real estate equity and debt in Europe and North America. Allianz will invest as much as 6 billion euros in real estate this year in an effort to grow its portfolio to 60 billion euros by 2019, Trausch said. By then, Allianz expects to have about 5 percent of its assets in Asia. While that target also covers Australia where Allianz has about 230 million euros of property most of the purchases will occur in China. In China, we like offices and logistics in the key cities, because thats where you see the change from a manufacturing economy to a service economy, said Trausch, who spent six years as Asia-Pacific CEO for GE Capital Real Estate before joining Allianz in January. Allianz will look for investment opportunities in Shanghai and Beijing, he said. Gateway Cities Allianz will increasingly invest in large gateway cities around the world, to take advantage of economic growth there. That includes New York, where the firm this year bought a stake in the One Battery Park Plaza office tower for an undisclosed amount. Allianz may also make an acquisition in Los Angeles, Trausch said. We dont have that much exposure to the global 24/7 cities. We know thats where the demand is, he said, referring to increased appetite for space from people who want to work and live there. Allianz has a positive outlook on the U.S., despite indications that office markets in some cities may be peaking. Allianz expects to invest 3 billion euros there in the coming years, raising its exposure to about 15 percent from 10 percent now. Its an economy that has shown its capacity to be resilient, Trausch said. Allianz doesnt own any buildings in London because it has long considered the prices to be too high. Depending on your perspective, we were either too late or too early on London, he said. Well have to wait. Its definitely a city wed like to go into. Trausch declined to comment on the U.K.s decision to leave the European Union. Allianz would also like to buy more in Berlin, where the company owns several commercial properties, including an office building overlooking the Brandenburg Gate and luxury-shopping complex thats leased to Galeries Lafayette. Lending Surge About half the portfolios growth will come from lending, as opposed to direct acquisitions of buildings, he said, which means the company may underwrite more than 3 billion euros of loans this year. Less than a third of the portfolio is in debt now. Im pushing the teams very hard to expand our lending business, he said. The more we can do the better, both in Europe and the U.S. Lending is attractive because it gives Allianz a way to escape the intense competition among buyers seeking to buy buildings directly, while taking advantage of banks growing reluctance to extend riskier and larger loans as regulation makes that type of debt more expensive. We can cue a ticket of 300 million euros, which banks these days are more reluctant to to do, he said. Related: Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. Topics Europe Property China Allianz Zurich Insurance Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Zurich Insurance Group, has completed the acquisition of MAA Takaful Berhad (MAAT), a leading provider of Takaful products in Malaysia, from MAA Group Berhad and Solidarity Group Holding BSC. The combination of MAATs range of products and Zurichs existing insurance solutions enables it to provide customers in Malaysia with a full suite of insurance products and solutions spanning life insurance, general insurance, family takaful and general takaful. Zurich will pay 525 million Malaysian ringgit (approximately US$134.6 million). Approximately MYR400 million was paid at the closing of the transaction and the remaining amount will be paid on the third anniversary after the closing in accordance with the terms and conditions of the share purchase agreement and subject to certain adjustments, said a statement issued by Zurich Insurance Co. The acquisition of MAAT marks a significant milestone for Zurich in Malaysia. It will enable Zurich to enter a new customer segment with a different range of products, said Philip Smith, chief executive officer of Zurich Insurance Malaysia Berhad. This segment has great growth potential and by combining the strengths and capabilities of both Zurich and MAAT, we will be able to provide a wide range of insurance and takaful solutions across multiple customer segments, underpinned by the technical and servicing expertise in the wider Zurich Group, added Smith. The transaction does not affect existing takaful certificate holders, said the company, noting that it will continue servicing existing MAAT customers and their certificates will remain valid, with all obligations honored until the end of their term. Stuart A. Spencer, Zurich general insurance chief executive officer for Asia Pacific said the takaful market in Malaysia is fast growing, as a result of significant insurance under-penetration in the Malay population of the country. Acquiring MAATs local knowledge and takaful expertise will enable Zurich to help meet the growing demand for takaful products in Malaysia, he said. Salim Majid Zain, chief executive officer of MAAT, commented: Combining Zurichs international expertise, global brand and financial strength with MAATs local market talent will benefit all of our stakeholders. Both our existing and future customers will continue to receive the highest standards for service and solutions we have become known for. Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Sompo Canopius AG and Mexicos Grupo Nacional Provinical SAB formed a strategic partnership. This arrangement will help both parties to develop new business and insurance products for the Mexican market, capitalizing on GNPs position as a leading domestic insurer and Sompo Canopiuss specialist underwriting expertise, Sompo Canopius said in a statement. It will also enable GNP to broaden its underwriting portfolio to include international risks through a participation in the underwriting results of Syndicate 4444. Stuart Davies, chief executive officer of Sompo Canopius, said: We are looking forward to working with GNP as we develop our strategic partnership. The combination of our underwriting skills and specialist expertise, and GNPs understanding of the local market and established distribution, will allow us together to develop new business and broaden our knowledge base. Mario Vela, chief executive officer of GNP, said: This is an exciting development for GNP. Our partnership with Sompo Canopius will provide us with an increased international exposure through their position at Lloyds and enable us to expand our product range to meet the growing local demand for specialist insurance products. Guy Carpenter acted as adviser to GNP on the formation of this partnership. Source: Sompo Canopius Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Mexico The Missouri Supreme Court has thrown out a $7.5 million judgment to a former St. Louis police officer who claimed her supervisor sexually harassed her, and that her complaints about the harassment resulted in retaliation. The ruling sent the case back to the trial court. The state Supreme Court cited instructional errors that could have been misleading or confusing for jurors. A St. Louis jury in 2014 ruled in favor of Tanisha Ross-Paige, awarding $300,000 in compensatory damages and $7.2 million in punitive damages. Her suit named the police department, the police board, Sgt. Steven Gori and others. Jeremy Hollingshead, an attorney for Ross-Paige, said the verdict was overturned on a technicality. In fact, he said he expects an even larger award when the case is re-tried. This is a case where the allegations were so outrageous, so egregious, that the jury was going to come back with the verdict they did, no matter what, Hollingshead said. Deputy City Counselor Nancy Kistler said lawyers for the city were still reviewing the ruling and will be ready to retry the case. The lawsuit alleged that Gori made and distributed a mock wanted poster with comments about Ross-Paiges body, along with her picture. It alleged that Gori asked Ross-Paige, who was married at the time, to sit on his lap, to take off her bullet-resistant vest so he could see what (she is) working with, and to join him in skinny-dipping in his hot tub. Ross-Paige, now 43, filed a complaint with the department in June 2011. After that, she alleged in the suit, Gori and a lieutenant gave her unfavorable shifts, denied time off requests and evaluated her differently. Gori and police denied wrongdoing. Ross-Paige joined the police department in 2005 and the canine unit in 2008. She was injured by another officers dog in January 2012 and became permanently unable to pass the police physical duty test. But Hollingshead said the department has refused to pay disability. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Law Enforcement Missouri What does the Brexit portend for all those collaborative efforts undertaken by the European Union to battle climate change? Its a question a number of people were pondering in Europe and in the U.S. after last week when U.K. voters decided they want out of the EU. Christiana Figueres, the UNs climate chief, on Tuesday said that Britains decision to leave the European Union was not a vote against climate change. However, Figueres said before the vote that a Brexit would force the 28-member bloc to revisit the plan they submitted in Paris. Politico last week ran a list of 5 ways Brexit will transform energy and climate. Reporter Sara Stefanini wrote: Britains departure from the EU will force broad changes to the blocs energy and climate policies, and remove a crucial ally for Central Europeans but it will also give London far more freedom to pursue nuclear projects. Among the list of five, her first point is that the U.K. has traditionally been a leader on climate policies, but the nations leadership if and when Prime Minister David Cameron steps down could change the U.K.s approach to the climate agreement hammered out last year in Paris. Even if the U.K. wants to continue pushing global climate change efforts, it will have a harder time doing so as a stand-alone country that only produces 2 percent of worldwide emissions, Barry Gardiner, the Labour Partys shadow climate and energy minister, told Politico. The website Climate Home also offered up a list, this one with questions following the Brexit vote. Whats the short term climate outlook? Will it hurt the Paris climate agreement? Is EU climate ambition over for good? Are climate skeptics coming back to power? How will this affect UK energy security? Could it impact climate finance flows? Climate Change Forming Pools It seems amid the fears of global warming that insurance pools are being seen as one possible way for the insurance community and governments to tackle the problems posed by climate change. The Financial Times ran a story on how underinsured, high-risk countries are banding together to pool risk. The lack of insurance for emerging economies is becoming more of a problem as the costs of natural disasters increase, the story states. Exacerbating this risk are the effects of climate change. The article highlights the Insurance Development Forum a collaboration of insurers, the World Bank and the United Nations that is working to help emerging economies understand and assess the risks they face, while increasing their access to insurance. For years the insurance industry has been very poor at describing the value proposition of insurance, Stephen Catlin, executive chairman of the IDF and deputy chairman at XL Catlin, told the Financial Times. But now, he added, the UN and other agencies are starting to understand what we can do for them. Insurance Journal earlier this month reported on another risk pooling effort called the Pandemic Emergency Financing Facility, a financial response mechanism to price pandemic risk under development by the World Bank in cooperation with the World Health Organization, global reinsurance companies and catastrophe modelers. Both ideas are attempts to help vulnerable nations. The IDF aims to help many of the V20, or vulnerable 20 countries, according to the Financial Times. The members of the group include countries that consider themselves among the most susceptible to the effects of climate change. Finance ministers of the V20 said in a recent statement that the group is aiming to expand access among its members to risk-pooling mechanisms, which allow groups to share the burden of catastrophic risks such as earthquakes and flooding, the Financial Times story states. COPD Some people still dont agree on whats causing climate change, but Im sure we can all agree that being able to breathe clean air is important. That point was driven home for me last week by the death of my mother, Allene Jergler. At age 77 she lived a good life, but her last handful of years were marred by breathing complications due to smoking. Yes, smoking and air pollution arent the same thing, but the point Id like to drive home for readers is that we should consider the welfare of our lungs as a small part of this climate change conversation. When people talk about the risk from smoking, I only hear worries about lung cancer. But chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, better known as COPD, tops my list. My mothers lung volume, as measured by her pulmonologist, was down to 30 percent. Add to that congestive heart failure smoking is also believed to be related to heart failure and surgery for cancer (nonsmoking related), and that made for a tough time for a tough Southern woman who acted and thought at least a dozen years younger than her age. She worked as a secretary for a contractor up to her surgery in 2012 among her duties she dealt with making sure the appropriate insurance policies were in place prior to the startup of a job, and she made friends with quite a few insurance professionals along the way. She drove the daily grind up Southern Californias 605 Freeway to Interstate 60, about where the rim of the heavy layer of smog that blankets the San Gabriel Valley begins. It was roughly an hour each way in stop-and-go traffic to Walnut and back. However, open chest surgery proved too much for her lungs and heart, and left her unable to return to a job she loved where close friends she knew since the 1960s still worked. She had a few more decent years after the surgery, which I attribute in part to her quitting smoking the same year. But she was never the same. In her last few months she finally went on oxygen pretty much full time. Healthy lungs are not just vital for life, but for living. So our lungs and clean air must be a consideration whenever we talk about pollution. We can all agree on this? Yes? According to the American Lung Association, air pollution triggers asthma episodes, it sends people to hospitals, and it shapes how kids lungs develop. And the National Institute for Stroke and Applied Neurosciences at Auckland University of Technology earlier this month listed air pollution as a major contributor to stroke. If you are still unconvinced, then at least do this: find a friend or family member who likes to light up and encourage them to quit. No Partisan Air Speaking of air pollution, not too long ago I went to Cal State Fullertons Center for Insurance Studies to hear Arnold Schwarzenegger and Robert Hartwig speak. Schwarzenegger talked a great deal about his time as California governor, and one thing that evidently stuck in his craw was the fighting between parties on topics like schools, infrastructure and air pollution. The still-somewhat-brawny actor said those battles often made little sense to him, particularly the fighting to get measures passed to ensure Californians had cleaner air to breathe. There is no Democrat air or Republican air. The air is polluted, Schwarzenegger said. Schwarzenegger backed up his anti-pollution stance with the World Health Organization statistic that 7 million people per year in the U.S. die as a result of air pollution exposure. A recent poll may make the former Governator happy. A Fortune article on Tuesday states that most voters, including about half of Republicans, believe the climate is changing and the federal government should step in to cut greenhouse gases. This goes against the thinking that climate change is primarily a cause of concern for Democrats. The article cites a poll from Just Win Strategies and TargetPoint Consulting. The poll was commissioned by a group of right-leaning energy-focused organizations, according to the article. The poll shows that 68 percent of respondents want federal government action to reduce emissions of gases that cause climate change. Fourty-eight percent of Republicans polled took that view compared with 46 percent who opposed it. Thats not the first poll that indicates theres a possibility that the two parties are beginning to see eye-to-eye at least among voters, not necessarily politicians on climate change. A poll out in April from the Yale Program and Climate Change Communication shows that conservative Republicans have experienced the largest shift in climate change believership of any political group with an increase of 19 percentage points over the past two years. Forty-seven percent of conservative Republicans think global warming is happening, up from 28 percent two years ago, the poll shows. But dont tell Donald Trump. Past columns: Topics Europe Climate Change Pollution In a short period of time, the political risk market has experienced a significant shift in exposures, with new potential threats and different territories now threatened by attacks from religious extremists. Christof Bentele, head of Global Crisis Management at Allianz Global Corporate and Specialty, says the political risk market is much different today than it was just 18 or 24 months ago and that has had an impact on how insurers look at the risk. [Previously], separatists and nationalists of terrorism were prevailing, but now we have a shift into religiously motivated terrorism, and that means the targets of terrorists have changed, Bentele said. Religiously-motivated terrorism goes after people, where separatists and nationalist terrorism goes more to disrupt a country and goes after assets rather than people. Carriers have also added countries to their watch lists that were not previously considered targets of terrorist attacks. The changing exposures are having a dramatic effect on the overall geopolitical risk insurance market, Bentele said. Clients are now looking to acquire more terrorism coverage and different types of coverage than what they previously associated with political risks. What weve seen, especially after the attacks in Europe, is that there is a bigger demand for threat coverage. Not necessarily property damage terrorism, but non-damage [business interruption] type of coverage, he said. We also see higher demand when it comes to cancellation risks, especially for bigger events. In actuality, however, the number of lives lost to terrorist attacks decreased 14 percent in 2015 from 2014 and the number of terrorism incidents decreased 13 percent during the same period, according to Marshs 2016 Terrorism Risk Insurance Report. But the unknowns from emerging risks in the political risk market, such as cyberterrorism, are impacting the segment and increasing interest in terrorism coverage. Clients are slowly beginning to realize their vulnerabilities when it comes to cybersecurity and how their reliance on technology could lead to significant business interruption losses should a large-scale cyber event occur. Businesses should be doing more to be proactive in addressing those vulnerabilities, said Matthew McCabe, senior vice president of Marshs Cyber Practice. Most companies have no idea how long it will take or how much it will cost to get back up and running should a major hacktivist event occur. Part of the challenge for organizations today is to build cyber resilience to recover from cyber events, McCabe said. In a webinar, Marsh discussed its recently released terrorism report that highlighted the shifts in terrorist tactics, as illustrated by recent attacks in the U.S. in Orlando and San Bernardino, as well as overseas in Brussels and Paris. There is a threat posed by international terrorist organizations as well as domestic terrorist groups, single issue groups, and lone wolf actors, said Tarique Nageer, leader of Marshs Property Specialized Risk Group. Incidents that destroy buildings are less common, while acts orchestrated against softer, more civilian targets have increased in frequency. As such, what clients need in terms of coverage and where they are covered have expanded. In a poll during the webinar of participants, 72.3 percent said their organization is more concerned about terrorism risk today than it was three years ago. According to the World Economic Forums Global Risks 2016 report, companies doing business in the U.S. in 2015 ranked terrorism as one of their top three risk concerns. The political risk landscape has expanded and threats have become more widespread, Bentele said, and clients are looking to have more localized insurance policies similar to how businesses insure their property. First and foremost, we see a high demand from the United States in terms of foreign terrorism insurance policies, not only the usual three-prong type of coverage that we have here in the U.S. Companies are now looking more into their international risk, Bentele said. When you buy a global property program you have local policies in many countries we see a very high demand to do this on the terrorism side as well. But some carriers have started to pick up losses in what was previously seen as a very profitable market, according to Bentele, and that could change the accessibility of coverage from private carriers. Now were seeing losses in Continental Europe, and Im sure we will continue to see losses in Continental Europe, and it will have a direct impact on price and market, he said. How a terrorist act is defined also impacts a businesss ability to recoup losses. In many cases, Bentele said, it is not immediately clear if an incident is the act of terrorism or malicious damage, or whether it is due to political instability already occurring in the country, such as civil war, and every country defines an act of terrorism differently. In order to trigger coverage from the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act (TRIPRA), attacks must meet the $5 million damage certification threshold, which Marsh said recent lone wolf and small-group attacks have yet to do. Nageer said in the wake of an attack, clients cant afford to wait to know if they meet the TRIPRA requirements. Get a certified standalone terrorism policy and then you are not waiting for the government to certify the act as an act of terrorism. It is a contract between the company and the insured, he said. Larger companies are starting to utilize captive terrorism insurance, according to the Marsh experts. The company said in its report the number of Marsh-managed captives accessing TRIPRA increased by 17 percent from 2014 to 2015. Companies that use captives to access TRIPRA can reduce their net retained risk related to terrorist attacks, Marsh said. When it comes to cyber terrorism, the insurance industry agrees that businesses and governments are seriously vulnerable to a major cyber attack, but defining a cyber terrorism event is very difficult, says Marshs McCabe. Cyber policies have a broader standard of cyberterrorism and generally do apply to disruptive activities against a businesss computer system, and offer a much broader standard, than what the federal governments definition is, McCabe said. Ultimately, all companies should be preparing for a potential catastrophic terrorist event that could affect their critical business operations, particularly their technology and network operations, McCabe said. Companies should test cyber resilience using catastrophic scenarios, he said. Planning should include the effective response for an enterprise event where networks are disabled. This should include a systemic event that more broadly targets critical infrastructure. Topics Catastrophe USA Cyber Europe At first, the woman tried to hide her painkiller problem. She told the doctor that she still had pain from her past pregnancy, and that she just wanted a refill on her pain medication. After a few questions, though, she admitted that a friend had sold her some OxyContin, and that shed stolen pills from another friend. The interaction was all staged, with the patient played by an actor and the doctor played by a medical student last month. The exercise was part of a daylong boot camp at the University of Massachusetts Medical School designed to help physicians in training identify and fight opioid abuse. Theres a lot at stake here. We have a public health epidemic, and its not getting better, and the health care profession is part of the problem, said Michele Pugnaire, the medical schools senior associate dean for educational affairs. Medical schools nationwide are rethinking their training on opioids amid rising overdose deaths. Schools are taking action after critics said they had inadvertently contributed to addiction problems. Federal health experts say that physicians have been prescribing addictive opioid painkillers too often, and that poor training is frequently to blame. According to federal data, opioid painkillers were responsible for nearly 19,000 deaths across the U.S. in 2014, an increase of more than 400 percent since 2000. Heroin, by comparison, killed 10,000 people in 2014. We are over 10 years into this epidemic, and I dont think weve seen a robust enough response from the medical community, Michael Botticelli, the White Houses drug czar, told reporters in Boston last month. Other Countries Studies have found that medical students at American schools spend far less time learning to treat pain than their peers in other countries, or even veterinary students in the U.S. Even at top schools like Harvard, students say they arent trained enough. A group of students there organized their own clinic on addiction treatment this year to fill gaps in the curriculum. Theres a sense of urgency to tackle this issue from all fronts, and I think medical schools and teaching hospitals are really committed to doing their part, said Tannaz Rasouli, senior director of public policy and strategic outreach for the American Association of Medical Colleges. Under pressure from the White House, more than 60 U.S. medical schools pledged in April to teach new federal guidelines for prescribing opioid painkillers. In Massachusetts, Gov. Charlie Baker rallied the states four medical schools to develop a uniform curriculum on opioids and addiction thats being unrolled this year. Lawmakers in Pennsylvania are pushing for a similar effort there. Dozens of schools, including Brown and Columbia universities, have received federal grants to teach a standard interviewing method that helps screen patients for drug abuse. Students are expected to be able to identify and address that as well as they would someones diabetes or hypertension , said Dr. Frances Levin, a professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbias medical center. The goal is partly to cut down on opioid prescribing. At Boston University, for example, students learn alternative ways to treat pain such as relaxation therapy and breathing exercises. But students are also being taught that some populations have been turned away from painkillers too often because of stereotypes. Black men, for example, have likely been under prescribed opioids because clinicians fear that theyre maybe going to abuse those drugs, said Dr. Douglas Hughes, the associate dean for academic affairs at the Boston University School of Medicine. Many schools are also adding more training simulations like the one at the University of Massachusetts, using trained actors known as standardized patients. The idea is to put students through complex cases that theyll face in practice, and to help gauge whether students are asking patients the right questions in the right way. At the end of those exercises, students learn whether they made the right decision. Duke Universitys medical school plans to increase its use of standardized patients, too. But some professors there stress to students that, in the real world, theres often no way to know if they made the right choice. I talk to medical students about my own uncertainty and my own doubts, said Dr. Nancy Weigle, who teaches about community and family medicine at Duke University. In medicine, we operate in a lot of gray areas. And this is an area that can be really tricky, and theres not always one right answer. Associated Press writer Holly Ramer in Boston contributed to this report. Related: Topics Massachusetts Education Training Development Universities Investors in Puerto Ricos debt-burdened economy still face risks of default on some of the islands $70 billion in debt even after the U.S. Congress on Wednesday created a powerful federal oversight board to manage credit restructurings. U.S. President Barack Obama says he will quickly sign the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA) before the U.S. territory faces a possible default on July 1 on $1.9 billion worth of debt payments. While the government of Puerto Rico says it cannot honor all of its debts, and will likely default for a fourth time in the last year on some of its bonds, some creditors could get their payments via insurers or reserve funds. Regardless of the creation of the oversight board, the missed payments on July 1 will constitute defaults, said Ted Hampton, senior credit officer at Moodys Investors Service. The July 1st payment includes roughly $780 million worth of General Obligation (GO) bonds, its most senior credit that is supposed to be paid out before all others. I expect they will not cover all of the GO payment. That would be their first GO default in all of this, which is one reason why many people involved at the U.S. Treasury, in Congress, in the government of Puerto Rico saw a lot of urgency in enacting PROMESA before July 1, Hampton said. According to Hampton, Puerto Rico has already missed approximately $562 million worth of debt payments through June 30th. PROMESA provides the market with more clarity and lowers the chances of a chaotic legal fight by providing a stay, or halt, to any creditor litigation brought against the Puerto Rican government and its debt issuing agencies that is retroactive to December. If the control board, appointed by Obama with Congressional input, can implement reforms, bring the islands financial situation under control, and repay all of its debt, it will enable Puerto Rico to be self-sufficient and able to sell bonds in the future for its operating and capital needs, Dick Larkin, credit analysis director at Stoever Glass & Co. PROMESA, a rare bi-partisan compromise, passed the Senate on Wednesday by a vote of 68 to 30. The House of Representatives passed it on June 9. INSURERS ON THE HOOK The risk of defaults is not eliminated by PROMESA, but the reduction of uncertainty is greatly welcomed after months of mostly dead-end talks between creditors and the government. The reality is that for all of the negative catalysts that lie ahead, credit markets and insurers are relieved that they now get to deal with adults, that is talk with a control board, rather than the governor and his staff, said Height Securities analyst Daniel Hanson. The stock prices for the three publicly traded monoline insurance companies with exposure to Puerto Rican debt rose as the likelihood of PROMESA passing increased on Wednesday. Hundreds of millions of dollars of Puerto Ricos July 1 payments are covered by insurance, including about $364 million by Assured Guaranty, according to public records and a company spokeswoman. About $184 million of that covers GO debt. Assured has more than $5 billion in total Puerto Rico exposure. Its stock rose 3.56 percent to $24.67 per share. MBIAs National Public Finance Guarantee reported that about $350 million of its total $4.29 billion in Puerto Rico exposure comes due on July 1, including about $173 million in GO bonds. Its stock gained 4.28 percent to $6.81 per share. Ambac, which insures more than $2 billion of Puerto Rican bonds, is on the hook for $122 million in principal and interest due on July 1, including some $40 million in GO or GO-guaranteed debt, according to the companys public documents. Ambac shares climbed 5.10 percent to $15.84. A spokesperson for Financial Guaranty Insurance Co. (FGIC), which insures more than $1 billion in total Puerto Rican debt, could not be immediately reached on Wednesday. Puerto Ricos benchmark 2035 General Obligation bond rose 1 full point in price ahead of the final vote, to trade at 66.75 points, pushing the yield down to 12.663 percent. . Moodys rates this debt Caa3, which it believes implies creditors holding the bonds will have a recovery rate in a range of 65 to 80 percent of principal and interest. Dealing with PROMESA allows the insurers to trade some payments in the short-run for higher recoveries in the long-run. Ultimately that is a better business proposition for them than having to continue to limp along and never reach a deal, said Hanson. (Reporting By Daniel Bases in New York; Additional reporting by Nick Brown in New York, Susan Cornwell and David Morgan in Washington, and Karen Pierog in Chicago; Editing by Shri Navaratnam) Topics Carriers USA A late-night explosion and fire broke out at a natural gas plant in southern Mississippi, but there were no injuries or fatalities reported, police said early Tuesday. Pascagoula Police Capt. Shannon Broom said authorities received a report about the explosion at a BP plant around 11:30 p.m. Monday night. He told The Associated Press that the company reported that while employees were at the site when the blast happened, everyone appeared to be safe. Broom, who was reached by phone near the scene, said firefighters were working early Tuesday to put out the fire. Its contained to the plant and is in the process of being extinguished, he added of the fire. He said authorities werent aware of any injuries in the immediate aftermath but that details were still preliminary early Tuesday as fire crews were at the scene. WLOX-TV reported that emergency crews at the site blocked off and traffic diverted as they secured the area for firefighters. The station posted brief video footage at its online site showing flames and smoke rising from the area. WLOX-TV also reported that crews from a fire station nearly 10 miles distant had felt the vibrations from the explosion even before heading to the site. The Jackson County emergency services director was expected to issue a statement with more details later Tuesday morning. The official didnt immediately respond to messages and emails left by AP. BP officials couldnt immediately be reached for comment. Pascagoula is located along the Gulf of Mexico, about 30 miles east of Biloxi. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Mississippi Airbnb has sued the city of San Francisco over a new law requiring short-term rental companies to remove unregistered hosts from their websites. The San Francisco Chronicle reports the companys suit filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California seeks an injunction to suspend the law, which is set to take effect July 27. San Franciscos new short-term-rental law would make companies like Airbnb, HomeAway/VRBO and FlipKey liable for big fines and criminal penalties if they showcase listings that lack the citys required registration number. The company argues the rules run afoul of federal law, including the Stored Communications Act of 1986, which creates privacy protections for communications held by third-party Internet service providers. Airbnb says the amendments violate this federal law by requiring it to disclose user information to the city without a subpoena. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits The physician who used a non-FDA-approved bone cement during a womans spinal surgery and the company that ran an illegal test market to promote the dangerous product should be held accountable for her death, a lawyer for the womans daughter told a Seattle jury. Reba Golden was vibrant and healthy when she agreed to let Dr. Jens Chapman operate on her back in 2007, but the surgeon never told Golden or her family that he planned to use a bone cement associated with blood clotting and patient deaths, said attorney Rick Friedman, who represents Cynthia Wilson in a lawsuit against the surgeon, the University of Washington and Synthes Inc. Chapman and Jansjoerg Wyss, former CEO of Synthes, knew the products risks but continued to use it on patients in a scheme that one doctor called human experimentation, Friedman said in opening statements of the trial. This case is about two men who could not admit they made a mistake, Friedman. Michael Madden, a lawyer representing Chapman and the university, said Friedman distorted and ignored the facts by claiming Chapman put the interests of Synthes and Mr. Wyss ahead of the best interest of his patient. This is a case about a 67-year-old woman who fell and broke her back, Madden told the jury. The injury caused her extreme pain, and Chapman used a safe procedure to try to help her, Madden said. He added Chapman did not use the Norian bone cement in a way that put Golden at risk. The trial before King County Superior Court Judge Jim Rogers is expected to last up to eight weeks. Wyss recognized in the 1990s that as baby boomers aged, they were more susceptible to spinal injuries and if he could get a bone cement on the market to use in surgeries, the product would be worth about $500 million, Friedman said. Synthes bought a California-based company called Norian and altered one of its products to be used on the spine, the lawyer said. Taking the product through the normal regulatory process would be time-consuming and costly. Instead, Wyss and other company executives wanted to send the bone cement to surgeons across the county, who would use it and publish articles that could be used to secure Food and Drug Administration approval, Friedman said. But Dr. Michael Sharp, a Synthes manager of regulatory affairs, objected and began writing to people in the company saying, We cant do this, Friedman said. Another doctor, Kenneth Lambert, also warned against the idea, saying while the Norian bone cement had great potential, it needed testing before being used on patients. Chapman used it on a pig in 2002, and it died. A week later, the company went forward with the test market. Lambert again voiced concerns about the products safety and said sending it to untrained surgeons amounts to human experimentation, Friedman said. In June 2002, Chapman submitted a proposal that laid out questions and concerns about the cement. Most disturbing, he said, was how only a small amount could cause severe clotting. He suggested a two-year timeline at the cost of about $400,000, Friedman said. But three months later, and before any studies were done, Chapman put it in a patients spine, Friedman said. Over the next five years, things did not go well for Synthes, Friedman said. By July 2003, there were three adverse events and one patient death. Two more patients died in 2003 and 2004, and by January 2007, the FDA demanded that Synthes put a label on the product saying it cant be used on the spine, Friedman said. But when Reba Golden went to Chapman and he agreed to operate on her spine, he used the Norian bone cement and she bled to death on the table, Friedman said. For elective spinal surgery, no one bleeds to death, Friedman said. Its like getting struck by lightning. In 2010, Synthes, Norian and company executives pleaded guilty to federal charges that they promoted the product for unauthorized use, Madden said. But Chapman was not involved in the criminal enterprise that led to the federal prosecution of Synthes, he said. Chapman did not take part in the test market, and he never used Norian to treat compression fractures, Madden said. Chapman, a world-renown spinal surgeon, did 300-plus surgeries and used Norian less than 1 percent of the time, Madden said. He was not part of any plan to profit from using Norian in the spine, Madden said. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Washington The latest data security study out of IBM and the Ponemon Institute puts the average cost of a data breach at $4 million per incident, or 29% increase over a year ago. The reports authors dont just throw up their hands in despair, however: there are some best practices that can help bring down these costs. Combined with common-sense practices to help prevent such breaches, the losses can be contained. For one, IBM and Ponemon say it pays to be able respond quickly and effectively to breach reports. They recommend assembling an incident response team that is trained on handling and dispatching with any problems. Leveraging an incident response team was the single biggest factor associated with reducing the cost of a data breach saving companies nearly $400,000 on average (or $16 per record), the reports authors state. In fact, response activities like incident forensics, communications, legal expenditures and regulatory mandates account for 59 percent of the cost of a data breach. Part of these high costs may be linked to the fact that 70 percent of U.S. security executives report they dont have incident response plans in place. Of course, this plays well in situations in which there is a visible attack or hack against systems. The most nefarious hacks, however, may be the ones that sneak in and remain latent within systems for weeks, months, and even years, slipping data out the door. In fact, the average time to identify a breach in the study was estimated at 201 days, and the average time to contain a breach was estimated at 70 days. For these under-the-radar threats, the best defenses include rendering data useless to intruders via encryption, for example and, even more crucial, training and educating staff at all levels. An analogy is street crime: it would be far worse than it is if only the police were concerned about it. The best way to eliminate street crime is to have an engaged citizenry who act as the eyes and ears of neighborhoods. Likewise, employees need to feel a sense of community and not only engage in best practices (such as not downloading emailed documents from unknown sources), but also to act as eyes and ears to sense anything out of the ordinary. Back to dealing with known responses quickly and effectively: The IBM-Ponemon study also found the longer it takes to detect and contain a data breach, the more costly it becomes to resolve. While breaches that were identified in less than 100 days cost companies an average of $3.23 million, breaches that were found after the 100 day mark cost over $1 million more on average ($4.38 million). So time really is money. Pillar two will change the international tax system forever. Here Christian Kaeser, global head of tax at Siemens, looks at how businesses and tax administrations can simplify pillar two compliance. Ce un centrocampista del Brescia, un genio napoletano che si occupa di progetti spaziali, unappassionata di divulgazione economica. La lista dei 100 giovani italiani under 30 piu promettenti del 2020 e un patchwork che va dal nord al sud del Paese e copre vari settori: dalla sanita allinformazione, dal marketing alla giurisprudenza. Gli under 30 [] sono la prova che il futuro sara nuovo, eccitante e profondamente diveso scrive la storica rivista economica. Una giovane generazione di imprenditori pronti a sfidare il mondo. Erica, sorella di Technogym Come Erica Alessandri, figlia di Nerio, il celebre imprenditore e fondatore della societa leader internazionale nella produzione di attrezzi per lo sport ed il tempo libero con sede a Cesena. A lei, Forbes Italia dedica la copertina. Erica non si accontenta di avere le redini di unimpresa fondata dal padre, che oggi fattura oltre 600 milioni di euro allanno. La giovane occupa un posto nel board aziendale e punta a un futuro sociale dellimpresa: Ho un fratello piu piccolo, Edoardo, che studia ancora e una sorella maggiore con cui condivido tutto, anche i segreti. Si chiama Technogym ironizza lei. I 100 under 30 selezionati da Forbes Italia saranno protetti e aiutati dai brand italiani leader nel proprio settore in qualita di tutor per seguirli nei progetti nelle loro aree di competenza. Matteo: da Napoli allo spazio Tra gli italiani piu influenti nel settore della scienza, ce Mattia Barbarossa, che Interris.it ha intervistato lo scorso luglio. Entro il 2021 il giovane, che ha fondato nella sua Napoli una piccola azienda, Sidereus Space Dyamics, sta sviluppando dei satelliti transorbit per circumnavigare la luna. Lobiettivo e quello di sfruttare leconomia per fare esplorazione spaziale, ma anche sviluppare le tecnologie spaziali per uso terrestre dichiarava a Interris.it. Cento giovani sono una grande dose di speranza per un Paese che, per altri versi, mostra tutte le sue incertezze. E' di 10 morti e 30 feriti il bilancio di un incidente stradale che si e verificato in Ghana nella serata di domenica primo ottobre. L'incidente Secondo quanto riferito dalle autorita, un bus privato per il trasporto interregionale della compagnia cinese Yutong, con a bordo 54 passeggeri, e uscito dalla sua carreggiata, forse in un tentativo di sorpasso. Il mezzo e poi finito contro il rimorchio di un camion che proveniva nella direzione opposta. L'incidente si e verificato nel tratto di strada che collega la citta di Kumasi, 250 chilometri a nord ovest della capitale, con Accra. Arrestato il conducente La polizia stradale ha fermato il conducente dell'autobus perche l'incidente sarebbe stato causato dalla sua condotta poco prudente. L'uomo, che non ha riportato nessuna ferita, e ora in custodia della polizia locale. Nel frattempo, i corpi delle vittime sono stati trasferiti nella camera mortuaria dell'Holy Family Hospital di Nkawkaw. Anche gli altri passeggeri, rimasti feriti nell'incidente, sono stati trasportati nella stessa struttura ospedaliera per ricevere le cure del caso. La Yutong e un'azienda di trasporti cinesi che ha esportato in Ghana piu di 1.000 autobus dal 2000 ad oggi. What Is Taxation Without Representation? The phrase taxation without representation describes a populace that is required to pay taxes to a government authority without having any say in that government's policies. The term has its origin in a slogan of the American colonials against their British rulers: "Taxation without representation is tyranny." Key Takeaways Taxation without representation was possibly the first slogan adopted by American colonists chafing under British rule. They objected to the imposition of taxes on colonists by a government that gave them no role in its policies. In the 21st century, the people of the District of Columbia are citizens who endure taxation without representation. 0:56 Taxation Without Representation History of Opposition to Taxation Without Representation Although taxation without representation has been perpetrated in many cultures, the phrase came to the common lexicon during the 1700s in the American colonies. Opposition to taxation without representation was one of the primary causes of the American Revolution. The Stamp Act Triggers Colonists The British Parliament began taxing its American colonists directly in the 1760s, ostensibly to recoup losses incurred during the Seven Years War of 1756 to 1763. One particularly despised tax, imposed by the Stamp Act of 1765, required colonial printers to pay a tax on documents used or created in the colonies and to prove it by affixing an embossed revenue stamp to the documents. Violators were tried in vice-admiralty courts without a jury. The denial of a trial by peers was a second injury in the minds of colonists. Revolt Against the Stamp Act Colonists considered the tax to be illegal because they had no representation in the Parliament that passed it and were denied the right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Delegates from nine of the 13 colonies met in New York in October 1765 to form the Stamp Act Congress, better known as the Continental Congress of 1765. William Samuel Johnson of Connecticut, John Dickinson of Pennsylvania, John Rutledge of South Carolina, and other prominent colonials met for 18 days. They then approved a "Declaration of the Rights and Grievances of the Colonists," stating the delegates joint position for other colonists to read. Resolutions three, four, and five stressed the delegates loyalty to the crown while stating their objection to taxation without representation. Trial Without a Jury A later resolution disputed the use of admiralty courts that conducted trials without juries, citing a violation of the rights of all free Englishmen. The Congress eventually drafted three petitions addressed to King George III, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. After the Stamp Act The petitions were initially ignored, but boycotts of British imports and other financial pressures by the colonists finally led to the repeal of the Stamp Act in March 1766. It was too late. After years of increasing tensions, the American Revolution began on April 19, 1775, with battles between American colonists and British soldiers in Lexington and Concord. On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee introduced a resolution to Congress declaring the 13 colonies free from British rule. Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson were among the representatives chosen to word the resolution. A Statement of Intent The first part was a simple statement of intent, including the declaration that all men were created equal and have unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. A second section listed the colonists grievances and declared their determination to achieve independence. The final paragraph dissolved the colonists ties with Britain. Following debate, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, with the signing occurring primarily on Aug. 2, 1776. Taxation Without Representation in Modern Times Taxation without representation was by no means extinguished with the separation of the American colonies from Britain, not even in the U.S. Residents of Puerto Rico, for example, are U.S. citizens but do not have the right to vote in presidential elections and have no voting representatives in the U.S. Congress (unless they move to one of the 50 states.) In addition, the phrase taxation without representation appeared on license plates issued by the District of Columbia beginning in the year 2000. The addition of the slogan was meant to increase awareness of the fact that residents of the District pay federal taxes despite having no voting representation in Congress. In 2017, the District's City Council added one word to the phrase. It now reads "End Taxation Without Representation." Which Tax Triggered the Rebellion Against Great Britain? The Stamp Act of 1765 angered many colonists as it taxed every paper document used in the colonies. It was the first tax that the crown had demanded specifically from American colonists. Did Taxation Without Representation End After the American Revolution? Yes and no. While the states in the newly formed country had representation, federal districts like Washington, D.C., and territories like Puerto Rico still lack the same representation on the federal level in the modern era. Top News - Investor Idea REE Stock News - Defense Metals (TSX-V: DEFN.V) (OTCQB: DFMTF) Drills 113 metres of 2.50% Total Rare Earth Oxide at Wicheeda Vancouver, British Columbia - October 26, 2022 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Mining / Metals / Green Energy Stock News - Defense Metals Corp. (TSX-V: DEFN / OTCQB: DFMTF/ FSE:35D) is pleased to announce high-grade Rare Earth Element ("REE") assay results from one additional core hole, totalling 383 metres (m), collared within the northern area of Defense Metals' 100% owned Wicheeda REE Deposit. Top EV Stock News - Investor Idea Breaking EV Stock News: Mullen (NASDAQ: MULN) FIVE 'Strikingly Different' EV Crossover Tour Starts Tomorrow, Oct. 27, in Pasadena, California; New Los Angeles Area Stop Added BREA, Calif. - October 26, 2022 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Mullen Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) ("Mullen" or the "Company"), an emerging electric vehicle ("EV") manufacturer, announces today the beginning of the Mullen FIVE Strikingly Different EV Crossover Tour, which will commence on Oct. 27 in Pasadena, California. Due to overwhelming interest, new dates have been added for Nov. 1 and 2 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California. Top AI Stock News - Investor Idea Breaking AI Stock News: FatBrain (OTCQB: LZGI) Acquires Confidential Computing Platform ZeroTrust to Protect Data Privacy and Accelerate Innovation for Millions of Growth Businesses NEW YORK, NY - October 19, 2022 (Investorideas.com Newswire) FatBrain AI (LZG International, Inc.) (OTCQB: LZGI), the leader in powerful and easy-to-use artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for star enterprises of tomorrow, has acquired the confidential computing and privacy intellectual property (IP) plus software assets of Zero2A PTE LTD ("ZeroTrust Platform"), a software company based in Singapore. Check out our Podcasts for great investor ideas: Get new posts by email: Subscribe Powered by Investorideas.com Newswire: Subscribe to Investor Ideas Newswire So it really is Brits Out! but from Europe, not the north of Ireland. The fallout from the catastrophic vote by a small majority of the British people (52 percent to 48 percent) to leave the EU will have profound consequences for Britain and for Europe. The full extent of these consequences will take months, even years, to emerge. But what is clear already is that the European country that could suffer most from Brexit, perhaps even more than Britain itself, is Ireland. This is because Ireland is so heavily dependent on trade with Britain, far more than other EU country. It is also because of the unique ties Ireland has with its much larger neighbor and because we are the only EU country that has a land border with Britain. Read more: Irish passport rush as British applications spike Our special relationship with Britain includes the unrestricted access we have had under our Free Travel Area agreement that goes back to the 1920s which allows Irish people to move freely to Britain, to live and work there. But we are also a member of the EU, which allows citizens from all over Europe to travel freely to Ireland, to live and work here. So despite the assurances that are already being given that nothing much will change for us, the likelihood is that we will face restrictions on travel to the U.K. in the future. The desire by Britain to limit immigration, particularly from Eastern Europe, can only be achieved if movement between Ireland and Britain is controlled, both at points of entry into mainland Britain and also at the border with Northern Ireland. Anything else is wishful thinking because that is the only way to stop Ireland becoming a back door method of entry for immigrants trying to get into the U.K. The fact that we had unrestricted access to the U.K. for decades before the EU (or its predecessor the EEC) came into being does not matter. When the EU was widened to include many countries in Eastern Europe, we entered a new era. And now that Britain is leaving the EU and wants to control immigration, our special unrestricted access has to be affected. The specter of restored passport control checkpoints and customs at the border with Northern Ireland is contemplated with horror by people here who remember the delays and inefficiencies that the border used to cause in the old days. These days when you drive from Dublin to Belfast you only realize you have crossed into the North when you notice that the road signage has changed from kilometers to miles. Once The Troubles had ended, there was no longer any reason for checkpoints and a visible border, since we were all part of the EU. But that is no longer the case. Now Britain is leaving the EU and a new set of circumstances are in play. Travel is only part of it. A much bigger worry for us, of course, is the economic fallout. Even though we now trade with dozens of countries, Britain is still our biggest market, taking nearly 20 percent of our manufactured goods and services and around 40 percent of our agricultural exports. The idea that Ireland can negotiate a special trade deal for itself with Britain to protect all this is a non-starter. Individual member states in the EU cannot agree trade deals with non-member states. As a member of the EU's Single Market we will be part of whatever trade deal is eventually worked out between the EU as a whole and Britain. At present, the EU imposes a four percent tariff on manufactured goods and up to 20 percent on agricultural produce imported from outside the EU. If Britain has to pay such tariffs on its exports to EU countries, it is likely to respond with similar tariffs, which would have a serious effect on Ireland. The alternative is a new trade deal between Britain and the EU, but that is likely to take years to negotiate and we have no idea now what kind of trade deal might be worked out in the future. The Leave campaign glossed over this difficulty during the Brexit campaign, but it is very real and it is horrendously complicated. Trade deals between countries or blocks of countries typically cover individual goods, products or services, with each trade category requiring detailed negotiations that can and usually do take years to complete. That is what we now face and there are no shortcuts, even if the EU and Britain were willing to be positive. For its part the EU and particularly France and Germany is unlikely to want to offer Britain any speedy, attractive trade deals because to do so might encourage anti-EU parties in other EU countries to think that they can leave without any negative consequences for their economies. On the British side, any attempt to negotiate new trade deals while at the same time ending free travel for all EU citizens and rejecting other EU fundamental principles is likely to fail. The reason is simple: if the EU were to do this, it would be spelling the end not only of the Single Market but of the great project to bind Europe together in an ever closer union. Read more: English didnt give a damn about North or Scotland in Brexit vote The challenges Brexit will pose for Ireland are immense. There is now around 1 billion of trade between us and the U.K. every week, and all that will be subject to uncertainty and likely change. For a start there will be the effect of the fall in the value of sterling which, even after recovering somewhat, was still at its lowest point in 30 years at the start of trading this week. That means Irish businesses will get less for their exports when sales are converted back into euro. That is only part of the problem. Our food exports to Britain in future will have to compete with produce from around the world, since the U.K. will no longer be limited by the protection the EU's Common Agriculture Policy gives EU farmers through tariffs on food imports. Ireland will be up against cheap Brazilian beef and all the rest of it, produced at Third World prices (and at Third World standards). Since we export 40 percent of all our farm produce to the U.K. that could be devastating. It also works the other way, since the truckloads of products that come in here every week to British supermarket chains in Ireland will be cheaper, making it more difficult for home producers of microwave meals and similar ready-to-eat products to compete. On a wider level, there will be the effect here of the Brexit chaos causing a slowdown in the British economy over the next few years, with the real possibility of a full blown recession in the U.K. as soon as next year. That will heavily impact jobs and growth here. Already the ESRI (Ireland's leading economic forecasting institute) is saying that Brexit could reduce Irish-U.K. trade by 20 percent. If anyone thinks this is unduly alarmist just look at what happened last Friday after the result of the Brexit referendum was announced. The London stock market crashed from the initial shock and then recovered somewhat to finish the day four percent down. The Irish stock market fell over eight percent last Friday. Our recovery and the promises made by the new minority government to reduce our heavy tax burden and spend more on public services are dependent on economic growth. It is this growth forecast by the government at four percent a year over the next few years which is supposed to provide the "fiscal space (extra revenue) to allow us to end austerity in future budgets and still be able to balance the state finances. The Brexit vote and its likely effects on our economy have now put this in doubt, and the fallout will be felt by everyone here. There is one upside to all this for Ireland, and that is the possibility that some multi-national companies now based in the U.K. may move to Ireland so they can still be in the EU market and still be in an English-speaking country. Our state bodies like the IDA are already working to contact such companies and sell them on the advantages of transferring their U.K. operations here. This is an opportunity and it may help, but it will never be enough to offset more than a fraction of the overall effect of Brexit on the Irish economy. Particularly unfortunate in this regard is Northern Ireland, where they have reduced their corporation tax to 12.5 percent to match ours and to attract foreign companies like we do in the south, especially companies that want direct access to the EU market. Since they are now being dragged out of the EU against their wishes (a majority in the North voted Remain) that has been undermined. Talking about the North leads us on to the political fallout from Brexit, which is potentially just as serious as the economic effect. Although unlikely, there is a possibility that Brexit may not only lead to a break up of the EU, but also of the U.K. The Scots (who also voted to Remain) are so furious that they are contemplating another independence referendum so they can stay in the EU. But some compromise seems more likely, given that so many Scots don't want to break the U.K. link and they are so dependent on funds from Westminster since their oil revenues collapsed. One of the worries in relation to the North is that the next British prime minister and the reshuffled Cabinet will be so mired in the complexities of exiting the EU that they simply won't have the time to focus on Northern Ireland. Since the North voted Remain, they may not be that well disposed either, particularly when the problems of what to do about the border begin to emerge. Given this, the call by Sinn Fein for a border poll (a vote to decide on whether to get rid of the border and create a united Ireland which will be part of the EU) is particularly idiotic, even for that party of dreamers. At present, the North's basket case economy is subsidized by the British taxpayer to the tune of around 5 billion a year (which even with the fall in sterling is still at least 6 billion). Where is that money to come from? In a united Ireland it would require a massive increase in taxation in the south which would kill the idea stone dead. Even nationalists in the North know which side their bread is buttered on, and would shoot it down in huge numbers if their welfare, housing and health services, etc. were threatened with cuts. The truth is that the fallout from the Brexit vote is so enormous and so complicated that issues like the North will be way down the priority list. It's a classic case of be careful what you wish for. The Brexiters have got what they wanted but are now waking up to the mind-boggling extent of the mess they have created. Britain has been a member of the EU for over 40 years, and its economic, financial, and social rules and regulations are legally bound up in a structure that it is now leaving. There is no road map. On trade, for example, the British civil service has no expertise in negotiating deals since all that has been done at EU level for decades. The legal complexities involved in disentangling Britain from the EU after 40 years are almost too great to comprehend. The fallout from the mess will affect Ireland more than other countries and in so many ways. For that reason it is likely to occupy this column regularly over the months and years ahead, probably long after the present writer has departed. But before we get into particular aspects of the fallout for Ireland it is interesting to look at the reasons the British voted the way they did. In many ways the EU has only itself to blame for the mess that has been created, and that is what we will be discussing here next week. Read more: Lets look at the bright side of Brexit for Ireland Calls for a border poll for a united Ireland so Northern Ireland can remain in the EU have been rejected by Britain and the Irish government. But, with a rapidly changing political climate following Britains vote to leave the EU, constitutional certainties in Ireland are no longer as firmly fixed as they were last week. Some international observers predict a break-up of the U.K. in a handful of years. Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to remain in the EU despite populations in England and Wales opting to leave and forcing an overall Brexit vote in the U.K. Irish Times Northern Ireland editor Gerry Moriarty says that Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Theresa Villiers and DUP First Minister Arlene Foster are probably correct in the short term to dismiss the notion of a border poll on a united Ireland. But then he quotes prominent personalities, notably veteran diplomat Richard Haass, predicting that in the near future people in part or all of the North will want a united Ireland with Britain out of the EU. Haass, a former U.S. special envoy for Northern Ireland, said, In five years there will no longer be a U.K. Scotland will be independent and part of Europe. Less certain but quite possibly all or part of Northern Ireland will join Ireland. Moriarty wrote that although Unionists will dismiss Haasss predictions as wild, even inflammatory, they bear serious consideration. He described the diplomat as a cold, calculating thinker. The calls for a border poll have been led by Sinn Fein leaders Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness. Read more: Massive support for a united Ireland poll after Brexit They were rejected this week by outgoing British Prime Minister David Cameron, Villiers and First Secretary Foster, whose DUP was the only major party in Northern Ireland to push for a Leave vote. Border poll proposals were also rejected by most speakers in the Dail, including Taoiseach Enda Kenny. He said under the Good Friday Agreement, a border poll can take place if the British northern secretary believes a majority wants to join the Republic. There is no such evidence. There are much more serious issues to deal with in the immediate term and thats where our focus is, Kenny said. Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan agreed. Rather than focus on a border poll, I believe that our immediate strategy should be to sit down with the British government and with the Northern Ireland Executive and to urgently discuss how collectively we are together going to protect the gains of the last decades and to prevent the worst effects of a U.K. departure from the EU, he said. There has been a surge for Irish passports from people in Britain and Northern Ireland who have Irish ancestors. Even DUP MP Ian Paisley junior, who campaigned for a Leave vote, advised, If you are entitled to a second passport, then take one. Foster and Martin McGuinness, the Norths deputy first minister, are to meet Kenny next Monday as the Northern Ireland Executive begins to draw up plans to deal with Britain and Northern Ireland withdrawing from the EU. Foster said she and McGuinness would meet Kenny in Dublin on to commence discussions on the nature of our relationship going forward. They were also seeking an urgent meeting with Cameron in the coming weeks. The Norths vote in the Brexit referendum was 56-44 percent in favor of staying in the EU. Read more: Lets look at the bright side of Brexit for Ireland The 49 people shot dead in a gay club in Orlando were remembered on banners and flags at the Dublin Gay Pride parade. Up to 50,000 people, including non-gays, took to the streets of the capital for a day of dancing and parties. Aidan Kenny of the Teachers Union of Ireland said he had come along to support all those at the event, particularly after the Orlando shootings on June 12. Irelands gay hero, Rory ONeill aka drag-queen Panti, said in advance of the event that the parade would have more of a sense of purpose because of what happened in Orlando. We dont need to worry about anything, I dont think so. This isnt Orlando, were in Dublin, ONeill said. Two years ago, a videoed speech by ONeill at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin in response to events surrounding an RTE gay controversy, garnered over a million page views and was described by Irish Times columnist Fintan OToole as the most eloquent Irish speech in almost 200 years. On Saturday, at the pride march organized by Dublins gay community, sparkling drag queens mimed and sang along to the dance music and took selfies, waving and blowing kisses to the crowds below. Sarah Mulhall from Dublin and her fiancee Anthea Feeney from Sligo got engaged last year, two weeks before the marriage equality referendum. They said they feel a change in the air since the referendum. Feeney explained, You feel a lot better walking down the street knowing that your own public support you. Even the little town that I live in, Sligo its tiny it got the highest Yes vote in the referendum. The couple will marry in Sligo in December. The largest pride festival in Ireland has grown from a one-day event in 1974 into an almost week-long celebration, with arts and cultural events. This year's theme was Rebel Rebel honoring the historic events of 1916 and also paying tribute to David Bowie who died earlier this year in New York. One of the problems with the history of the Irish War of Independence is that so many of the participants never got to tell their storysome died, some remained muteso many of the facts were told secondhand. But there is one eyewitness who came forward to tell the terrible truth about what really happened in that pivotal year of 1920. His name was Vincent Byrne, Old IRA, and a member of the Squad, Michael Collins legendary Twelve Apostles. I first came across Byrne in the RTE/BBC history of Ireland back in the 1970s. Vinny came on to the screen, a delightful little Irish gnome, laughing and telling tales. It was when he came to the events of Bloody Sunday that the shock began. Read more Greatest quotes from and about Michael Collins On November 21, 1920, at precisely 9 a.m., members of Collins Active Service Unit (ASU) Squad entered buildings, most in Dublins now trendy D4 postal district, and shot dead 14 members of the British Secret Service. Byrnes assignment that morning was the building at #38 Upper Mount Street, a block removed from Merrion Square and framed by St. Stephens Church of Ireland, fondly known as The Pepper Canister because of its unique architecture. Perhaps the best way to understand and appreciate Byrnes contribution to the cause of Irish freedomand to understand the strategy of Michael Collinsis to read his complete witness statement at the Bureau of Military History which Byrne gave on September 13, 1950. It is 75-pages long and it reads like a thriller. Byrne joined the Irish Volunteers in January 1915 at the age of 14. He was a member of the Volunteers 2nd Battalion, Dublin South. One of his officers was Mick McDonnell who would become the first leader of Collins Squad. On Easter Monday 1916, Byrne assembled on Stephens Green, ready to march over to Jacobs Biscuit Factory and strike a blow for Irish freedom. When spotted by a Volunteer officer, he was told to go home, probably because of his age. I started to cry, said Byrne in his statement, because I was being sent home. I met section commander Mick Colgan on my way down Grafton Street and he asked me what was wrong with me. I told him what Lieutenant Shiels has said to me. He said: Come along out of that, and dont mind him. So I paraded at Stephens Green with the remainder of the company and was armed with a .22 rifle. Byrne spent the week in Jacobs and with the surrender escaped to his home on Annes Lane, just off South Anne Street, near the top of Grafton Street. A week later he was arrested by the British at home and taken to Richmond Barracks where he was fingerprinted before being released about a week later with other youngsters, including future Taoiseach Sean Lemass, who would also be a member of the Squad on Bloody Sunday. (It is interesting to note that the rebels were fingerprinted, but no mugshots were taken, which would come back to haunt the British because they did not know what many of the key players looked likeespecially one Michael Collins.) In another ironic twist, a short six years later Byrne, then a Commandant-Colonel in the new National Army, would be the commanding officer of the same Richmond Barracks. Byrne recounts how he became a member of the Squad after being recruited by Mick McDonnell: Would you shoot a man, Byrne? [asked McDonnell] I replied: Its all according to who he was. He said: What about Johnnie Barton? Oh, I said, I wouldnt mindas he had raided my house. So Mick said: That settled it. You may have a chance. Byrne goes on to relate his many adventures, including trying to shoot Lord French, the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, on several occasions. He relates how they stole the Royal Mails to obtain intelligence as it related to the dealings at Dublin Castle. By most historical accounts Collins set up his private ASU, his Squad, in September 1919. (There is an account of this in the movie Michael Collins where Collins is recruiting the members and says if you dont want to join, it wont be held against you. At the end of this meeting, a volunteer holds up his hand and says something to the effect: Would we have gotten out of here alive if we said no? Liam Neeson laughs and refers to his questioner as Vinny. Guess who the imp was?) The idea behind the Squad was relatively simple. In collaboration with Collins' intelligence operation located at 3 Crow Street, its purpose was to identify and eliminate British spies and touts. Assassinations could only be ordered by Collins himself, or, in his absence, Richard Mulcahy, Chief-of-Staff of the IRA, and Dick McKee, commandant of the Dublin IRA brigades. Members of the Squad hung out at various offices around Dublin called Dumps because thats where they would dump their guns after a job. A frequent visitor was Collins himself, as Byrne recalled: The Big Fella, Mick Collins, visited us at least twice a week. Notwithstanding the enormous amount of work he undertook, he found time to visit his Squad. The moral effect of his visits was wonderful. He would come in and say: Well, lads, how are ye getting on? and pass a joke or two with us. He was loved and honored by each and every one of us, and his death was felt very keenly by the Squad. I am proud to say that Mick stood by us in our hard time, and that every single member of the Squad stood by him in his hard times, without exception. Read more Michael Collins and the Bloody Sunday massacre Perhaps the highlight of the statement is his involvement in the events on Bloody Sunday. His targets that morning were a Lieutenant Bennett and a Lieutenant Aimes. They were living at 38 Upper Mount Street (the address is misidentified in the statement as #28). Byrne rounded up the two men and brought them to the back room. He stood them on a bed together. When the two of them were together, I said to myself The Lord have mercy on your souls! I then opened fire with my Peter [hand gun]. They both fell dead. If that wasnt enough excitement, Byrne and his men ran into a shoot-out with British agents as they were escaping. They exchanged fire and Byrne and his men got away. Byrne relates many adventures, including the shootingwhich dismayed and incensed Winston Churchillof Alan Bell, the bank examiner brought in by the British to find Collins National Loan; the elimination of Willie Dolan, a porter at the Wicklow Hotel who was a British tout [unbelievably Collins gave his widow a pension because she believed that he had been killed by the British]; and the greatest Eamon de Valera fiascoand triumphin Irish history, the burning of the Customs House in May 1921, where Byrne narrowly escaped capture. After the establishment of the Irish Free State, Byrne left the army, but remained active in Old IRA activities, serving as an ambassador to both sides of the conflict. Nearly one hundred years after his adventures, its a wonder that Hollywood hasnt come a-calling to tell the story of Michael Collins most colorful Apostle, Vinny Byrne. *Dermot McEvoy is the author of "The 13th Apostle: A Novel of a Dublin Family," "Michael Collins, and the Irish Uprising" and "Irish Miscellany" (Skyhorse Publishing). He may be reached at dermotmcevoy50@gmail.com. Follow him on his website and Facebook page. *Originally published in April 2017. IrishCentral History Love Irish history? Share your favorite stories with other history buffs in the IrishCentral History Facebook group. A Dutch criminal caught with a fake identity card in a luxury Dublin apartment during a Garda operation targeting the Kinahan gang has been given a one-month jail sentence writes Tom Tuite. Naoufal Fassih (35), who is of Moroccan origin, pleaded guilty to having a false instrument a forged Belgian ID card and possessing cannabis worth 40 when he was found in an apartment on Lower Baggott St on April 7 last. He had already spent two and half months in custody on remand prior to his sentence hearing at Cloverhill District Court on Thursday. Fassih, once described in court as a man of means, was wearing 800 runners and allegedly had three designer watches worth more than 80,000 when arrested. He has 12 prior criminal convictions for serious offences in the Netherlands dating back to 1998. Garda Eoin Kane, of Kevin Street station's Drugs Unit, told Judge John Lindsay that courts in Amsterdam had previously given Fassih jail terms. In 2014, he was sentenced to 20 months, in 2002 he got a three and a half year sentence and in 2000 a two year prison term. His earlier crimes included: two counts of unauthorised use of weapons, ammunition and explosives as well as extortion and attempted extortion and embezzlement, assault, openly joining forces to commit violence against other people and drugs offences. However he had no prior convictions in Ireland. Fassih is also awaiting extradition to the Netherlands on other charges. Gda Kane told the court that a warrant was obtained under the Misuse of Drugs Act to search the apartment. Fassih told gardai his name was Omar Ghazouani and he had Belgian ID card with that name and it had his photo. Gardai also discovered a passport in another name and cannabis in the form of herb, resin and oil worth 40. He continued to maintain his name was Omar Ghazouani when he was detained for questioning at Kevin Street Garda station and during a subsequent court hearing when he was applying for bail. However, gardai established his real identify through the assistance of Interpol and Fassih was refused bail on April 15. Gda Kane agreed with defence counsel John Byrne (instructed by solicitor Barry O'Donoghue) that the search was a result of receiving confidential information which did not relate to Fassih. He also agreed with counsel that they did not expect to find him there. Mr Byrne said his client's explanation for being in Ireland was that he was here for a girlfriend. Mr Byrne said the name on the ID card and the passport did not match up and the offence was amateurish. Judge Lindsay said all crimes are amateurish, when they're caught. Fassih sat silently throughout the hearing. His counsel said he would be resisting attempts to extradite him to the Netherlands where he faces charges for three relatively minor offences. He left school at 18 and worked in construction and his last sentence in 2013, which was a four-month prison term, was relatively modest, counsel said. The maximum sentence for the forged document charge was 12 months, the court heard. Judge Lindsay noted he has been in custody on remand since mid-April and he imposed a one-month jail term for that offence. He gave the accused the benefit of the Probation Act for the drugs charge. Fassih was initially refused bail on April 15 by Judge Cormac Dunne at Dublin District Court after the prosecution successfully argued that he was a fight risk. Gardai had said in evidence that he had 800 runners and three designer watches in total worth 83,000 when arrested at the apartment on Lower Baggott Street. Garda Kane had also said that the man was arrested during an operation targeting members of the Kinahan organised crime gang. Gda Kane also said that during the search of the apartment also found there were: 300, Stg 12,825, a Rolex watch worth 8,350, another Rolex watch valued at 35,000 and an Audamars Piguet Royal Oak limited edition Michael Schumacher watch valued 40,000. Mr Fassih also failed in a High Court action to get released on bail. A new report has highlighted hate crime as the greatest concern amongst LGBT people in Ireland. The National LGBT Federation study has found that 25% of transgender people feel comfortable being out in public. More than 62% of rank-and-file gardai face pay freezes, starting tomorrow. Representatives of the Garda Representative Association are protesting outside the Dail this morning, calling for the Government to honour the terms of the Haddington Road Agreement, which expires today. However, the Government has said that the Lansdowne Road Agreement is the only mechanism for pay restoration - a deal the GRA has refused to sign up to. Robbie Peelo from the Louth Division says members are dejected. "Morale is non-existent, it's quite simply non-existent," he said. "We had members there last weekend at a Joe Biden visit above, put out on flyovers on the motorway, and left there for 13, 14 hours - not even given a meal break, not even brought back to stations to use the bathroom because they hadn't got enough numbers to do it. "So how could you expect morale to be anywhere in the job when you see situations like that?" The UN children's fund has warned that 3.6 million Iraqi children are at "serious risk" of death, injury, sexual violence, abduction and recruitment into armed groups. In its report, A Heavy Price For Children, Unicef called on warring parties in Iraq to protect children's rights and said the number of youngsters at serious risk in the country has increased by 1.3 million in the past 18 months. It describes Iraq as "one of the most dangerous places in the world for children". The report said the 2014 invasion by Islamic State into large areas of Iraq's north and west and the military operation to unseat them have had a "catastrophic impact", with 4.7 million Iraqi children in need of humanitarian assistance. It said children are also affected by the lack of adequate healthcare, poor public services and the desperate state of education. "Children in Iraq are in the firing line and are being repeatedly and relentlessly targeted," Peter Hawkins, Unicef's Iraq representative, said. "We appeal to all parties for restraint and to respect and protect children. We must help give children the support they need to recover from the horrors of war and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous Iraq." Unicef called for urgent action to protect children's rights in war-torn Iraq. It appealed for humanitarian access to all children across Iraq, including in IS-controlled areas, to improve education and to provide psychological and recreation programmes. Unicef said it is short of funding and is seeking 74 million for its work in Iraq throughout 2016. Iraq is going through its worst crisis since the 2011 withdrawal of US troops. In the summer of 2014, IS militants blitzed across large swaths of the country's north and west, capturing Iraq's second-largest city of Mosul and the majority of the western Anbar province. IS has since suffered major defeats when Iraqi forces, backed by the US-led coalition, drove the extremists out of several key cities, including the city of Fallujah, which was retaken by Iraqi forces earlier this week. IS extremists still control significant areas, including Mosul. That is not to say, however, that the EU is blameless. It is far from it, and we here in Ireland are well aware of the bullying tactics used by its senior mandarins and its companion in arms, the ECB. Now that the vote has taken place, the peoples decision is made and the die is cast. Its time to move on. From a British perspective moving on will mean dismantling 40 years of European laws and seeking to re-negotiate its relationship with the EU that is, if it wants to continue to trade with EU countries. That it does is a no-brainer. Currently, Britain exports hundreds of billions of products and services to EU countries which account for a good chunk of its GDP. Its imports of European goods and services accounts for a smaller part of its economy. Significantly, Germanys relationship with Britain is particularly important as over 20% of all cars manufactured in Germany are exported to the UK some 820,000 cars each year. Those are seriously big numbers and despite what British politicians are saying about the EU and particularly about Germany needing the UK, they must be questioning their ability to maintain the current arrangements. After all, the EU is the biggest market in the world. Then, of course, there is the current trade with the rest of the world. These trade deals were all struck by the EU Commission and not by London over many decades. Britain will have to renegotiate those trade terms all by itself even though it has no particular expertise in such negotiations and will be on the back foot from the start. Its also a fact that these deals take years to broker and the UK simply doesnt have the time. What is certain is that uncertainty prevails. Business absolutely hates uncertainty. As a small nation on Britain and the EUs doorstep, Ireland is particularly vulnerable to uncertainty. We may have something to gain from the woes of our neighbour but as a major trading partner we cannot afford to upset it either. We are the collateral damage of the law of unintended consequences. The law of unintended consequences is that actions of people and especially of governments always have effects that are unanticipated or unintended. Now that Britain has voted to leave the EU, that law is kicking in with a vengeance. Already we are being told that the Republics economy will take a 3.2 billion hit at a time when Government largesse is spreading. Trade and travel between the North and south will potentially be an issue. Its been suggested that we could have some sort of derogation to maintain the status quo of our relationship with the UK. However, already, one senior EU official is saying that Ireland cannot cut any special deal with Britain. Perhaps we should hope that while our British friends are focused on extricating themselves from the hole they dug for themselves, our mandarins and our development agencies are working really hard to take advantage of any opportunities that might arise. So far, the Irish view is that we should maintain our current relations with the rest of the EU. There are others who say we should review our position. There are also those who believe that as we are now net contributors to the EU budget, that we should follow Britain out the door. As weve seen from the turmoil in the worlds markets as a direct result of Brexit, I think it fair to say that leaving would do us more damage than joining ever did. Amid the threat that anti-EU contagion might spread, one good thing that might come out of this mess is that the power brokers in the EU might just recognise they are no longer omnipotent They might hopefully realise that if the European project is to survive and its economy is to prosper that they should learn why Brexit happened and learn from the lessons. If EU mandarins do not right what is wrong with the EU, reform its structures, make its dealings and decisions more transparent and accept accountability for their actions and give back to the people a feeling of ownership, th mess will just get a lot worse. Sealing the border would create major difficulties for an estimated 30,000 Irish people working in Northern Ireland. The Norths Agriculture Minister Michelle McIlveen said: The outcome of the referendum vote will undoubtedly cause change for farmers and processors within Northern Ireland. For now it is very much business as usual. I want to see an arrangement where our local companies have a free trade agreement that allows them to continue to access markets in Europe that they are currently supplying. Economy Minister Simon Hamilton said: The Executive has received assurances from the prime minister that Northern Ireland will be given its place in future talks which commence later this year. Before the Brexit vote, EU agriculture commissioner Phil Hogan had warned of the harm to cross-border dealings in Ireland, saying any form of border could seriously disrupt trade in agri-food products, notably the daily flow of livestock. He also warned that many Northern Irish farms would struggle or fail without EU support. EU nations have been unable to decide whether to allow Monsantos Roundup and similar weedkillers continue on the EU market, so the European Commission decided the issue on Tuesday, instead of national politicians. Last week, representatives from the 28 member states again failed to agree on extending the EU licence for glyphosate, which was due to expire today. Agro-chemical companies say banning the chemical could disadvantage farmers, increase food prices, and damage the environment. But safety concerns have left some member states reluctant to approve it. France and Malta voted against the Commissions latest offer of a 12 to 18-month licence extension for further scientific investigation of glyphosate, and the required majority support in this vote was not forthcoming, due to seven member states abstaining. If the licence was not extended, manufacturers had six months to phase out products containing the widely used herbicide. However, in that event, Monsanto and other companies might make legal appeals against a ban. Ireland supports European Commission proposals for renewal of approval for glyphosate. The weedkiller has been authorised in the EU since 2002. It has been under evaluation since 2012, for possible renewal of approval, which would allow member states authorise it if they want to. Due to Brexit taking over recent agendas, the European Commission postponed voting on the extension of the EU licence for glyphosate. Instead, the commission used written procedures to decide a temporary extension of the licence, for 18 months. During that period, the European Chemicals Agency will complete its assessment of whether glyphosate is carcinogenic to humans, something deemed unlikely by the EU food safety body. Over 80% of Britains meat imports come from the EU. The UK takes 272,000 tonnes of Irish beef (54% of our beef exports), 61% of Irish pigmeat exports, 84% of our poultry exports, and 28% of our sheepmeat trade. Over half of Irelands live cattle trade is to the UK, and sterling weakening against the euro this year has already resulted in a 50% reduction of these exports to the UK. Currency fluctuation also makes meat dearer for UK consumers, who may therefore reduce purchases or switch to cheaper cuts, say analysts at Rabobank, who predict that longer-term uncertainty will continue to stall growth, with lower consumption or down-trading putting some downward pressure on prices, countering the currency-related upside pressure. While the EU is currently the most important trade partner for meat, it is possible the UK will seek to expand competition by allowing additional imports from other exporting countries, such as Brazil and the US. Britains high animal welfare and food safety standards may however be a barrier to wider trade agreements. In general, trade agreements for food and agricultural products tend to be the hardest to achieve, note Rabobank experts. Another major implication of Brexit for Irelands meat industry is the performance of Irish processors investments in the UK. According to Rabobank experts, expected higher costs of trading in Britain may make it a less attractive destination for investors. On the other hand, reduction in regulations from Brussels might have some advantages for UK-based meat companies, enabling them take advantage of declining UK food self-sufficiency, and devaluation of the pound. Pigmeat The UK imports 40% if its pigmeat. Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands are the biggest suppliers, but the UK is the destination for 61% of Irish pigmeat exports. Sources at ForFarmers, one of the biggest UK animal feed businesses, said the share of imported pigmeat may fall after Brexit, helped by devaluation of the pound sterling. And British pig producers represented by the National Pig Association predict a bright future outside the EU. According to an industry poll, they voted roughly in line with the rest of the country, with around 54% wanting Brexit. They are confident British pork exports will continue to grow, thanks to rigorous British safety and regulatory credentials, high welfare characteristics, and different genetics for different price points, ranging from modern indoor production to straw-barns to outdoor-reared and outdoor free-range. The British pig industry has also introduced an antibiotic stewardship programme. Dairy Although the third-largest milk producer in the EU, the UK is a net importer of dairy products. Its main requirement is cheese, coming mainly from Ireland and France. Another important dairy import for the UK is butter, with Ireland again the main provider. Therefore, Brexit could provide significant challenges for Ireland (and for France to a lesser a lesser extent). Given the large volume of imports required, it is likely that dairy trading would continue, under new agreements, possibly with country-by-country quotas. Consumer foods Brexit could reduce sales volumes and profitability in consumer foods, food service, food retail and wholesale, due to currency changes reducing consumer product flows. The UK takes 44% of Irelands prepared foods exports. Beverages In contrast to most Irish exporters, our whiskey companies could benefit from Brexit, according to Rabobank analysts. They could take advantage of potential third-country trade barriers for Scotch distilleries on the EU internal market. Generally, the UK is only a small net exporter of malt, so the impact of Brexit on the beer industry would be minimal. UK farming and food Rabobank also looks at the capacity of the UKs farm and food industry outside the EU. This could be damaged by increased costs of trading into a non-EU Britain, which will reduce international trade flows and prices, with some companies postponing investments in the UK until there is a clearer picture of how trade will settle, or relocating. Independence from Europe could of course cut off the benefits of access to an abundantly supplied food market with 500m consumers. In the longer term, if agricultural innovators have to invest in getting a stamp of approval for the UK market, they may decide is not worthwhile for such a small market, because the costs of research to illustrate the safety and efficacy of a product are prohibitively high in relation to the potential sales in the UK. A weaker pound will mean higher prices for imported farm inputs in the UK, most of which are imported. UK producers may welcome less regulation from Brussels, but would still have to conform to EU regulations if they trade with the continent, or Ireland. About 25 people demonstrated outside Dail Eireann, but more than 12,000 have already signed an online petition calling on St Vincents University Hospital in Dublin to renew a specialists contract. Sarcoma patients and their families want an assurance that the standard of care for sarcoma patients will not decline with the departure of Dr Alexia Bertuzzi this week. Sarcoma is a rare form of cancer that affects 200 to 250 people in Ireland annually . It can be cured if caught early. Among the protesters was Kelli Appezzato, who sent an open letter to Health Minister Simon Harris last week pleading for expert care for her critically ill husband, Gino. Gino, 44, who is under the care of Dr Bertuzzi, is recovering from major surgery to remove a tumour just over four weeks ago. This was always going to be a small protest because the people we are doing this for are too ill to come out themselves, said, Kelli. We are being told sarcoma care wont be compromised, but nobody has stepped up and said, we understand this is an issue; we know your fears and this is how we are going to help you. Dr Bertuzzi had been contracted as a locum at the hospital for the past three years and over that time became the go-to consultant for patients with sarcoma. A spokesperson for St Vincents Hospital said its multidisciplinary team had all the relevant specialities for the care of patients with sarcoma and other cancers. One of the protesters was Pauline Kavanagh from Balbriggan, Co Dublin. Her daughter, Louise, 17, was diagnosed with sarcoma in her spine last September. Dr Bartuzzi is so positive and brings patients on. She really is a life-saving clinician, said Pauline. Also protesting was Crona Sheehan from Donnybrook, Dublin, who was diagnosed with sarcoma in 2005. Surgery is not an option for me anymore so I need a specialist oncologist like Dr Bertuzzi but we are caught up in a human resources issue, and its not fair, she said. Grandmother of 11 and mother of eight Martina OBrien Viguurs, a native of Rathkeale, Co Limerick, who had also lived in Cork before moving to the Netherlands, had planned to travel to Ireland on November 9 last with the man to continue viewing houses for sale. But when they should have boarded their flight from Amsterdam to Ireland she was already dead. Martina was slain by her husband of four years Arnold Viguurs who had never bought their tickets because he admitted he couldnt afford them. In the dock yesterday he declared yes I am a killer but I am not a murderer. Later he added Tina meant everything to me. In a letter two days before killing her he wrote Tina I have always loved you. I am sorry I made such a mess of our life and I hope you can forgive me. I cant leave you behind in the trouble I caused. I hope you find peace in heaven. The tragic drama that led to the death of Martina, who doted on her large family in Ireland and dreamt of a new life back home, had unfolded earlier in the court. Forensic tests showed injures to her hands and elbows, evidence of a struggle. She had been hit with a hammer a number of times and there were also marks of strangulation which it was concluded caused her death. Arnold Viguurs told the court he decided to kill her because he planned to kill himself to escape money problems and prevent her from discovering the lies about their finances. He had promised her they could afford a home back in Ireland after selling their house in Hertogenbosch. But in reality he was broke. He told his wife there was 175,000 over to buy a house in Ireland. But in reality, after the sale of their Dutch home and the payment of his debts, there was nothing left. He had deluded Martina about their meltdown after selling out his portion of a leasing agency he co-owned. The shares he received were worthless by 2014. By then he was receiving unemployment benefit pretending it was a pre-pension from a fictitious insurance policy. Just before Christmas 2014, Viguurs, by now suffering from depression, told Martina he contemplated suicide but she was left in the dark about the true reason. Then I realised that if I was to kill myself I had to take her with me, he said. After slaying his wife he went upstairs and was about to hang himself but could not go further. He called an ambulance and the police. The public prosecutor described him as a coward who tried to mask his lies. He could have come clean with his wife. Instead he embarked on a callous and shocking way to end her life. A verdict of murder with intent was demanded and a 14-year jail sentence. But Independent Alliance ministers backing proposals for abortions in cases of fatal foetal abnormalities are considering options, including abstaining from a vote or possible amendments to the Dail motion. According to the Department of health there were 26 terminations of pregnancy conducted in Ireland last year under the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013, according to the latest report on its operation, laid before the Oireachtas yester- day. There were 14 terminations arising from a risk of physical illness, three arising from a risk from suicide and nine from emergencies arising from physical illness. The same number of terminations in 2014. As of last night, there was no agreed government position on Independent TD Mick Wallaces bill which proposes terminations be allowed in such cases. The Government say the bill is unconstitutional, according to the Attorney General. Taoiseach Enda Kenny has set in motion a citizens assembly which later this year will examine the issue of the Eighth Amendment, which protects the life of the unborn. But many TDs want changes sooner rather than later in abortion laws, particularly for difficult cases where fatal foetal abnormalities may be identified. Independent Alliance Minister Finian McGrath and Shane Ross were engaged in a heated discussion at Cabinet earlier this week in a bid to get a free vote on the Bill. But Fine Gael ministers are opposed to it, with Health Minister Simon Harris insisting he cannot accept it. Independent Alliance Minister Finian McGrath and Shane Ross He told a Fine Gael party meeting last night the bill was unconstitutional and did not deal with the Eighth, which needed a referendum. He said fatal foetal abnormality was not a medical term and there were problems with the bills reference to compatible with life. While there had been suggestions of a second weekly cabinet meeting being called this morning to discuss differences on the Wallace bill, this was in doubt last night. This means the differences in the Cabinet on the bill are unlikely to have been ironed out before it is debated in the Dail today. However, some Government sources suggest a compromise may be agreed before the vote on the bill is held next week. Options being looked at to appease the Independent ministers include allowing them to abstain from the vote. Furthermore, amendments may be brought forward to the private motion. Health Minister Simon Harris Mr Ross and Mr McGrath are adamant they be given a free vote. The alliance itself also looks set to have differing views. The two Cabinet members as well as junior housing minister John Halligan want to support it, but Sean Canney and Kevin Moran want to oppose it. In Brussels yesterday, Enda Kenny said Mr Harris would outline the Government position in the Dail today. Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe played down any row at Cabinet: What is happening is were having a discussion in Cabinet in relation to a sensitive matter, we have a minority government situation here and we have a group of individual who are working with us in government and who have very strong views on the matter. Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe and Health Minister Simon Harris Mr Wallaces proposals are that a perinatologist and obstetrician can certify if a foetus is incompatible with life and that a termination is then allowed. It comes as serious questions are raised about the future of the suicide charity Console after it emerged hundreds of thousands of euro may have been misappropriated. The board of Console met last night to appoint a new chief executive. The HSE has confirmed its internal audit into Console has been completed. It has asked the charity for any comments it may have in relation to the audit before it decides on any future arrangements with Console. The internal audit is now complete. A copy of the final internal audit has now been sent to the mental health division for its attention. HSE management is currently considering the content of the report and is in the process of acting on its findings, the HSE stated. Draft sections of the audit revealed that former Console boss Paul Kelly and his wife and son spent almost 500,000 on designer clothes, foreign trips, groceries, and other expenses between 2012 and 2014. All three benefited by almost 500,000 in salaries and cars in the same period. Five state agencies are investigating the charity. The latest charity scandal has focused attention on the lack of power granted to the Charities Regulatory Authority (CRA). The agency was set up in 2014. Its website shows the regulatory power has little teeth in terms of investigating malpractice in an individual charity. Console boss Paul Kelly Under the What we do section, the CRA states it does not have the legal power to investigate individual complaints but that if serious risk is identified, it may decide to take appropriate action in relation to that charity. An older version of this webpage stated the CRA had neither the power nor the resources to investigate charities. Part 4 of the Charities Act 2009 gives the Charities Regulatory Authority statutory powers of investigation with respect to charitable organisations. This part of the act has not yet been commenced so we are not currently empowered or resourced to conduct statutory investigations of charities, it states. The Department of Justice last night confirmed the charities regulator has no role in investigating fraud, nor any competence to carry out investigations in that regard. It said the regulator currently has 23 staff, but a significant increase in its pay budget for 2016 will allow for that to increase to 36. It said Part 4 would be commenced as soon as possible. Other spending on the credit cards controlled by #Console CEO Paul Kelly, his wife and his son were:#rtept pic.twitter.com/rAwrYOGQdl RTE Prime Time (@RTE_PrimeTime) June 28, 2016 Ivan Cooper, director of public policy at charity representative body The Wheel, said it has repeatedly called on the regulator and justice minister to commence Part 4 of the Charities Act so it can have the necessary power to carry out investigations. When thats done, that will equip the regulator with the teeth that it needs to deal with these kinds of situations into the future, he told RTE. It has emerged that Console has no assets with the exception of two cars, a Mercedes and an Audi Q5, purchased by Mr Kelly and his wife for their personal use at a cost of 30,613 and 57,057, respectively. David Hall, appointed by Console last week to undertake a review of activities at the charity, said correspondence was issued seeking return of the vehicles. David Hall Mr Hall also said Console has a mortgage liability in the region of 500,000 on a property on the Navan Rd. He assured the public that such a situation would never again arise at the charity. This matter is now under control. The practices that were highlighted in that report are no longer continuing, will never continue again, he said. Catherine Murphy of the Social Democrats said Console had no prospect of recovering from the scandal unless major changes were made in terms of how it operates into the future. He said the Governments immediate strategy was to sit down with the British government and Northern Ireland Executive to urgently discuss how collectively we are together going to protect the gains of the last decades and to prevent the worst effects of a UK departure from the EU. As a co-guarantor of the Good Friday and succeeding agreements, the Irish Government is determined that its institutions, values, and principles will be fully protected, he said. Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said the region had been left facing enormous challenges in the wake of the referendum vote. The number one priority given the nature of the decision that was taken last week is to ensure we maintain our relationship with Europe, he said. We see our future as being in Europe. That poses huge challenges for British government and Irish Government. Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster called on Remain campaigners to accept the decision and get on with the business of getting the best deal for Northern Ireland in the exit negotiations. The DUP leader said she had no regrets about backing Brexit. The campaign is over, the decision has been taken, we now need to move on to create that stability that of course we all want to see here in Northern Ireland and throughout the United Kingdom, she said. At the close of the meetings, Mr Flanagan said: I outlined the importance of us all working together in the best interests of the people on this island. I reiterated the [Irish] governments commitment to the stability and prosperity of Northern Ireland and how we will seek to highlight the need for the EU to take account of the Northern Ireland dimension in upcoming negotiations in order to minimise any negative impact that may arise. In the biggest-ever consultation of the lesbian, gay, and bisexual community, the National LGBT Federation has joined the Irish Council for Civil Liberties and Action against Racism in highlighting how hate crimes based on race, membership of a minority, gender, and sexual orientation are going unpunished in this country. In the Burning Issues 2 research, gay people also request that health services, especially mental health services, become more inclusive. They believe public-sector workers in the areas of education, health, social care, and the elderly need to be given LGBT awareness and equality education. It found that older and younger gay men and women, people identifying as transgender, and those living outside the main cities still feel adrift in this country. More than 85% of gay people living in rural Ireland say they do not have enough support and want more opportunities to socialise. The report asks that LGBT inclusion be incorporated into the ministerial brief of the Minister for Regional Development, Rural Affairs, Arts, and the Gaeltacht. Respondents to the survey also want a campaign for marriage equality in the North,. National LGBT Federation chair Olivia McEvoy said there needs to be more LGBT events in Ireland, outside of the main cities. Existing community centres also need to be resourced to provide support to gay people. There are huge issues around loneliness and isolation amongst gay, lesbian, and bisexual people in rural Ireland. Many find it hard to develop friendships and relationships with like-minded people, especially younger and older people. We need a space for the LGBT community in rural Ireland, she said. A great many gay people dont have a space to socialise in locally at the weekend and are forced to make trips away at the weekend to meet people. We need to reach out to these people especially older people who grew up in a different world and are living in the margins. The research also found that gay and bisexual men want the lifelong ban on blood donations ended. Earlier this week, the blanket ban was ended but gay people will still have to wait a year after last sexual contact before they can give blood. Those who took part in the research want the Gender Recognition Act amended so it covers transgender young people and provides for the legal recognition of non- binary and intersex people. Ms McEvoy said that recent legislative changes are only a platform for the culture we aspire to, where diversity is really championed and celebrated. We still have a long journey to travel before we end sexual and gender oppression in Ireland. The required cultural shift will only be realised when the core principle of promoting sexuality and gender acceptance underpins all State policy and LGBT inclusion and equality become mainstream in all public-service provision across education, health, parental support, and social services. Earlier this year, Action Against Racism warned that Ireland is in danger of breaking EU laws due to the lack of hate crime laws here. Ireland is out of step with the majority of countries in the OSCE and the EU, were almost unique in the fact that we have no provision for hate crime at all in this country, said Shane OCurry, director of European Network Against Racism Ireland. Burning Issues 2 was based on a national survey of more than 2,600 LGBT people and 10 nationwide focus groups in seven cities and towns in spring this year. South Kerry coroner Terence Casey also urged people to always wear lifejackets, even for short distances, at the inquest into the death of a 55-year-old man who drowned in Kenmare Bay. William Topham, a married father of three and electrician, had set out on a duck-shooting expedition with a companion in an open Canadian canoe in Kenmare Bay on January 31, the last day of the shooting season Mr Topham, also known as Bill, of Greenane Heights, Greenane, Kenmare, was already at Templenoe pier and had the boat in the water, the lunch and the duck decoys packed for the shooting trip to Kellys Island, a short distance from the pier, when his companion Simon OReilly arrived after 2pm, Mr OReilly told the inquest in Killarney yesterday Each man had a springer spaniel and they set out, with the dogs in the centre of the boat. Each had an oar and Mr OReilly was in the front. Half way to the island, around 300 yards out, the dogs started messing in the boat, there were waves and the men tried to manoeuvre the craft. The boat flipped over in a few seconds and the men and their dogs were in the water, Mr OReilly said in his deposition, which was read on his behalf by Supt Flor Murphy. Out in the water, Bills dog was on top of him, and Mr OReillys dog on top of him. They had both tried to right the boat. Mr Topham was about 2.5m away and had become buoyant in the last Mr OReilly saw of him. Mr OReilly made it to the island partly by clinging onto the boat; when he got there his legs were numb. He was rescued from the rocks. The coroner asked if they were wearing lifejackets, and Mr OReilly said they were not. State pathologist Margot Bolster, who carried out the autopsy, found death was due to drowning. Bringing dogs onto a small craft can be extremely dangerous, said Mr Casey. While middle-ranking gardai agreed at the last minute to advise members to support the new pay deal, rank and file members are still refusing to back it. In the Dail, the opposition warned that industrial unrest from the force could be coming down the line. Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald said last minute-efforts were being made to get garda representatives on board. However, Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin highlighted that protections in place for some gardai will expire at midnight tomorrow, where their increments may be frozen and other payments dropped. The Government says these are not penalties but protections which will no longer cover some unions which refuse to sign up to the new Lansdowne Road Agreement deal after the current Haddington Road deal elapses this week. Speaking at Leaders Questions in the Dail yesterday, Mr Martin said: Friday, July 1, is fast approaching and the country could be facing some form of industrial action by An Garda Siochana. The Garda Representative Association says a pay review for gardai was never completed under the former agreement. This is a reason rank and file gardai will not back the new deal. Gardai not signed up to the Lansdowne Agreement face the loss of increments this week. Furthermore, secondary school teachers with the ASTI also facing increment freezes, the non-restoration of pay cuts and the non- payment of supervision fees. The Government can impose significant penalties on gardai and teachers under legislation known as the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest , a report on which will be submitted to the Dail today. Public expenditure minister Paschal Donohoe said last night he intends to retain the financial emergency legislation, and that prudent management of public finances was still necessary. Ms Fitzgerald yesterday said a proposed new public pay commission would still take a couple of months to be set up and the Government was still open to talks with unions in the coming days. The GRA has suggested that its members will have no choice but to take industrial action if their pay is frozen this week, including a so-called blue flu-style protest. The ASTI yesterday said it would withdraw from extra working hours agreed in the new school year. However, middle-ranking gardai said they would put the new pay deal before members in the autumn. In a statement, the AGSI said it will ballot its members in early August on the Lansdowne Road Agreement. Enda Kenny spoke personally with the British prime minister on the fringes of the EU leaders crunch Brexit meeting this week. Mr Kenny said he also raised Irelands unique position with EU leaders given its close ties in trade, commerce, and its land border with Britain. Speaking after a meeting of EU leaders yesterday, Mr Kenny said: I spoke to Prime Minister Cameron myself last night and hes very clear that whatever help he can, whatever way he can, he will work towards the continuation of the common travel area and with respect of an open border given the peace process between ourselves and Northern Ireland. Mr Kenny said he used the meeting to point out the very long history between both countries but said that relations are stronger than ever before and added the closer the relationships the EU are going to have with Britain the better for us. Prime Minister Cameron appreciated that and members around the table understand our position there. But also I made the point that we have had a common travel area since 1922. "Members around the table are well aware both of our relationship with Britain, the common travel area and the fact that the peace process has been so important for Northern Ireland for our relations North and South and between Ireland and the UK. I reminded them of that last night and again this morning, he said. Mr Kenny also said Britain would not be able to access the single market without also taking on what are known as the four freedoms goods, services labour and the free movement of people. This could be a major stumbling block in future negotiations on Britain exiting the UK as immigration was a major point of contention in the run-up to the Brexit referendum. This point was echoed by European Council president Donald Tusk who warned there would be no single market a la carte for the UK. David Cameron with Donald Tusk While European Commission president Jean- Claude Juncker said: Those wanting access to our single market must implement the four freedoms without exceptions and without nuances. Mr Kenny said there are different perspectives among European leaders on how quickly Britain must leave the EU. He said issues around the future of the border would be discussed at the North-South meeting of ministers on Monday. He said Tuesdays summit which included David Cameron, and the breakfast meeting yesterday morning without him had been very calm and very considered and very measured. Independent Opposition TDs yesterday called for a commission of investigation into the sale of Namas controversial Northern Ireland portfolio Project Eagle, in the Dail. Wexford TD Mick Wallace brought forward a private members motion to set up a commission saying Ireland was the only related country not to have an investigation into the 1.3bn portfolio sale. Mr Wallace and his colleague Clare Daly criticised Fianna Fail for doing a U-turn on Project Eagle for now opposing a commission of inquiry having called for that nine months ago. Fianna Fail has already said it would be proposing an amendment to the motion to allow for the investigation into the sale to conclude. Finance spokesperson Michael McGrath said the Public Accounts Committee must be allowed to examine the Comptroller and Auditor Generals review. Mr Wallace, who has made a series of allegations about the sale in the Dail in recent months, said that the ultimate buyer Cerberus Capital Management would double its money on the purchase. Finance spokesperson Michael McGrath Mr Wallace claimed that this would mean Nama sold Project Eagle for half what it is worth. During his contribution, Mr Wallace said the Public Accounts Committees review of whether the State got value for money on the sale would not address the governance concerns. He made accusations that Nama had not told the truth and he said he had evidence to prove it. Responding to the criticisms, Finance Minister Michael Noonan defended Namas handling of the sale and said the agency had proven to be one of the great successes of Irelands economic recovery. He said allegations of wrongdoing are extremely concerning and Britain had confirmed no aspect of Namas involvement was under investigation. He also said that no Garda investigation is underway but he said that anyone with evidence of wrongdoing should bring it forward. Finance Minister Michael Noonan In the Dail, Mr Noonan said little would be gained by engaging in acommission of investigation. However, Mr Noonan was subject to savage criticism from Independent TD Clare Daly who said a commission of investigation would assist any criminal prosecutions and said the truth will out. There is more dirt to come. You might think you have the numbers to get away with it, but it will come back to haunt you, she said. Mr Noonan dismissed Ms Dalys demands as being from Alice in Wonderland. The partnership, between Tyndall researchers and Intels components research facility in Portland, Oregon, will involve scientists investigating next-generation tech materials, devices and photonics technologies, including high-density, super-powerful computer chips. Under the terms of this latest deal the third time it has been renewed since it was first signed, in 2009 Intel will invest $1.5m between now and 2018 in the development of technology with Tyndall. It also provides Intel with a commercial exploitation licence for technology created with the Tyndall team. Bernie Capraro, the research manager of Intel Irelands Silicon Technology division, hailed the Tyndall researchers work, and the institutes focus on industry needs. We particularly appreciate Tyndalls flexibility, because we do alter the research programme from year to year, depending on what needs we have and how our interests change, he said. We anticipate that Tyndall will continue to deliver on projects, and to adapt and be flexible, as they have done so far. We also hope that Tyndall will teach us about new concepts and possibilities. Often, Tyndall researchers bring solutions to Intel rather than us coming to them with a problem, they will come to us with an opportunity, and we will evaluate whether it is something of interest that we could look at together. Tyndalls CEO, Dr Kieran Drain, said the renewal of the Intel partnership is a major vote of confidence in the institute. Intel has world-class research partners on its doorstep in the western United States, so the fact that they would come thousands of miles to work with us, here at Tyndall, is reflective of our ability to offer a valuable alternative viewpoint, he said. We are looking forward to continuing to work with Intel on major challenges, such as scaling, and examining new transistor architectures for high-density chips that can have a clear path to manufacturing with attractive economics. It requires new thought, and a new approach, to ensure that, as chips get smaller and more power- efficient, they also continue to get less expensive. The Tyndall National Institute, at UCC, is one of Europes leading information and communications technology research centres. Its 460 researchers and engineers, and 125 graduate students, are engaged in research projects with over 200 industry partners. A Lithuanian man is in a stable condition at Universtiy Hospital Limerick after being shot during the operation in the early hours of yesterday morning. The shot was discharged during a struggle after gardai confronted two men, believed to be part of an international gang. It is believed the man was shot in the neck and not the head as earlier reported. The bullet is lodged close to his spinal cord and there are growing fears he may be paralysed as a result. The garda ombudsman commission and gardai are carrying out two separate investigations. A second Lithuanian man was arrested at the scene in Co Limerick and is being held under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at Henry Street Garda Station in Limerick. He can be held for seven days. Both men in their 30s are believed to have arrived in the country in recent weeks and rented accommodation in the Cork area. In a major operation, gardai in the Cork division were tracking the two men for some days and members of the armed Regional Support Unit from Cork and undercover gardai followed the silver D-reg Toyota Corolla car they men were using from Cork late on Tuesday night. The two travelled through Newcastle West shortly after 2.30am on Wednesday and were at Jobbers Cross, near Shanagolden village when the gardai moved in forced the car to stop. It is believed a shot was discharged as the two men were confronted. The ombudsman investigation centres on the circumstances in which the shot was fired. One man was hit in the face by a bullet and removed from the scene by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick. He is said to be critical but stable. The second man was arrested at the scene and brought to Henry St station. The road was closed and the scene preserved after the garda ombudsmans office was alerted. Investigators spent over five hours at the scene before the road was reopened to traffic. The undercover Garda operation was part of a major crackdown on the activities of a foreign criminal gang. During the past four months, the gangs are suspected of being involved in the theft of nearly 20 quads from farms in the West Limerick area. Some of the quads were valued in the region of 20,000. Eastern European criminals monitored for months Jimmy Woulfe Mid-West Correspondent Gardai have been monitoring the activities of Eastern European criminals suspected of targeting farms and pubs across Munster for months. The gang specialises in the theft of expensive quad bikes from farms and burglaries at isolated rural shops and pubs. They fly into the country for short periods, carry out their raids, and fly out again. They travel in rented cars. They use spotters who live here to identify potential targets and give exact locations and directions to the gang. The spotters use drones to carry our reconnaissance of isolated farms. When quads are stolen they are brought to a central location and placed in shipment containers for exports. One Garda source said: They usually have vans to move a quad from the location of the theft. We know of one instance recently, the van they were using to transport the quad, broke down and one of them drove the quad along a main road in the middle of the night to get it to the home of one of their spotter associates. They seem to have a ready market abroad. The gang members are hard to track down. Some quads they steal can be worth anything between 15,000 and 20,000. About 18 quads have been stolen from farms in West Limerick in recent months. The gang was also recently involved in the theft of a number of camper vans. A source said: They basically found out locations where these vans were parked and drove off with them. We discovered that they just drove to ferries and disappeared. Gardai are liaising with colleagues in other countries to monitor the movements of known criminal gang members. On arrival in this country to carry out crimes, gang members use hired cars and stay in rented accommodation and do not have any direct meetings with their spotters and confine contact to texts and mobile phone. Other Eastern European gangs have been linked to the theft of copper used to insulate high-voltage ESB lines. The man arrested after yesterdays operation in Limerick can be held for seven days under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007. The wounded man is being cared for the intensive care unit at University Hospital Limerick. Garda ombudsman investigators have taken possession of the garda weapon from which the bullet was discharged and have taken statements from gardai involved in the surveillance of the two men. President Michael D Higgins highlighted the importance of immigration to the two nations as he addressed MSPs at the Scottish Parliament. His speech comes at a time when the UK is still coming to terms with last weeks vote to leave the European Union (EU), of which Ireland remains a member. Meanwhile, continental Europe has been dealing with a stream of refugees fleeing from the conflict that has engulfed Syria and the Middle East. President Higgins described Scotland and Ireland as being countries of intermixed migrants whose shared existence owes more to the transience of our migrations than to the sedentary experience of possessions or property. He said: If we imagine ourselves in the position of those currently fleeing war-torn Syria, or trapped in an unending cycle of conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, or in the position of future generations living in toxic and hostile environments, we could not acquiesce to inaction. For a long time, the Irish and the Scots found that our own people were forced to seek sustenance abroad. The strength and vitality of our diasporas today can be attributed to the bravery and indomitable spirit that motivated our ancestors to seek not only better lives for themselves and their families, but also to recognise the value of community and to appreciate the welcome they received on foreign shores. Perhaps, then, with our traditions and values, we might both be expected to play leading parts in showing the ethical leadership that is so needed at this moment in our history. President Higgins stressed that elected politicians must be unafraid to challenge outdated policies and speak out against inequalities which have ceased to shock us by how widespread and familiar they have become. A failure to do this could leave a vacuum that will be exploited, usually by dangerous populisms in the street, the President warned. He added: We are challenged to do democracy better rather than resile to old and divisive myths based on exclusion and often what is thinly-veiled hate or racism. President Higgins recalled the death of Labour MP Jo Cox, saying she exemplified the best of principled public representative politics. President Higgins highlighted the enormous potential for partnership and co-operation between Scotland and Ireland, saying this was grounded in the values that we share. As two small, in population terms, yet highly-skilled countries with highly-skilled workers on the periphery of Europe, we share a belief that our combined resources, expertise and experiences can create a dynamism greater than the sum of our two economies. The potential for growing our work together is endless in culture, in economic and social development, and in promoting the peace, stability and prosperity that have marked the transformative recent decades between these two islands. We have a lot to lose, especially in the areas of trade, movement of people, and of course the Northern Ireland border, so securing a key position in talks is essential. This will depend on whether Taoiseach Enda Kenny can use his accumulated clout in Europe to hammer out the best way forward for Ireland. After days of speculation, calls for calm, and vague statements, yesterdays breakfast meeting of EU leaders was the first concrete sign of things to come in a Europe without Britain. As EU leaders gathered for an early-morning meeting, one table setting had been removed as David Cameron was not invited. The 27 leaders met without him to discuss the Brexit fallout. Afterwards, Mr Kenny stressed that he had reminded the leaders of the special relationship between Ireland and Britain. He said the priority is to protect the vital national interest and he would work very hard to see that they are protected and enhanced. David Cameron Although Ireland is a nation of just over 4.5m in a Europe of 500m, we carry a rather large bargaining chip. As one senior EU source said: There is no agreement until everyone agrees and Enda Kenny should remember that. Although the Taoiseach is viewed as a leader on his last legs presiding over a weak and unstable minority government, in Europe many see him as someone with huge experience and insight. Mr Kenny is akin to the nerdy schoolboy who goes to college and suddenly becomes the popular guy. As Romanian MEP Siegfried Muresan said: Enda Kenny is the prime minister who took a country from the brink of economic collapse and brought it back to healthy, sustainable growth and job creation. Winning the following parliamentary election is a lesson for the rest of Europe on how to reform a country, safeguard its finances and the future of the young generation, and still preserve the support of the people. He said Mr Kennys voice now matters in Europe. This view was echoed by one senior official in Jean-Claude Junckers administration who said: The Taoiseach is someone who has been around a long time. He is well-known in the EU and well respected. Enda Kenny with Jean-Claude Juncker The official said Mr Kenny had earned respect for steering the country through the crash and subsequent bailout, and was then re-elected to power. So when he talks on the issue [Brexit] he may well find that he will be listened to and when he makes any requests they may well be listened to as well. How far Mr Kenny went in setting out that stall at the EU leaders breakfast yesterday and how effective he will be in campaigning for a specific Irish deal remains unknown. A seat on any European Brexit taskforce or even a senior role to act as a bridge between the EU and Britain which junior minister Dara Murphy suggested this week is the position Mr Kenny has to get himself into to gain the most for Ireland. The 1.2bn of goods and services traded between us every week, the 600,000 Irish-born immigrants in the UK, and the 499km border between ourselves and the North must be shop-front items in all negotiations. Before leaving Brussels Mr Kenny was adamant that members are well aware both of our relationship with Britain, the common travel area, and the fact that the peace process has been so important for Northern Ireland for our relations north and south and between Ireland and the UK. The previous government had committed to replacing the TV licence with a new Household Broadcasting Charge but that will not happen. Mr Naughten, speaking at the Oireachtas Communications Committee said e vasion of the TV licence costs the taxpayer about 40m a year. Speaking at the committee, the Roscommon-based minister said the proposed broadcasting charge should not be shelved completely. He said that tackling large-scale TV licence evasion is a short-term way of bringing more money into the broadcast sector. He said he does not think there is anywhere else in Europe that has the levels of evasion we have here. It is three-times higher than those experienced in the UK and in Germany. It is estimated that it could be anywhere up to 40m per annum, he added. Fianna Fail TD Timmy Dooley called into question the wisdom of abandoning the Broadcasting Charge. At the committee, Mr Naughten said funding cuts to TG4 made things challenging and impacted TG4s ability to deliver on its commitments for last year. Fianna Fail TD Timmy Dooley He said TG4 was unable to increase its hours of new, original Irish language content in 2015 as planned. An additional 300,000 in the current funding has been provided in 2016 to assist TG4 in meeting its obligations and to allow it to compete by producing more home produced content to help distinguish itself from international channels. Also at the committee, Green Party leader Eamon Ryan made a suggestion that RTE should move to Moore Street in Dublin city centre as an alternative to its current base in Donnybrook. Mr Ryan asked: Would the minister consider bringing his NewEra team to look at RTEs options in terms of alternative sites [for the broadcaster]? Could we look at Moore Street for example, that big development area in the centre of town? Put RTE back to where it started, near to Henry Street, the centre of the foundation of the State. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan And we could launch thousands of new eircode addresses for homes in the 35 acres in Donnybrook, half of which at the moment is rolling meadow or car park, which is a ridiculous use of space so close to the centre of town, said Mr Ryan. Mr Naughten replied: In relation to RTE, maybe we could even bring it back to its home in Athlone where it was originally broadcast from. I would be quite positively disposed to that. The old Marconi transmitter is still there in Athlone. We are hoping to make a museum and a visitor attraction out of it, he added. Bridget Byrne, aged 26, who works under the name of Ava Van Rose, appeared before Judge John Cheatle at Dublin District Court yesterday to have her case finalised. Byrne had pleaded guilty earlier to assault causing harm to Helen Guinan her at a house at Wheatfield Avenue in Clondalkin, in Dublin, on October 20, 2013. Garda Gerard Clifford of Ronanstown Garda Station told Judge Cheatle that Ms Byrne has a child with Helen Guinans partner. There had been a row over their arrangements for the child to be collected. The Northern Ireland secretary dismissed the suggestion that regions that backed a Remain vote could have a relationship with the EU distinct from England and Wales, where majorities favoured a UK exit. While the referendum result has raised the prospect of another vote on Scottish independence and prompted Sinn Fein to demand a border poll on Irish unity, pro-Remainers in Scotland and Northern Ireland have also called for special measures to ensure their EU links are kept, whatever the constitutional consequences of Brexit. Ms Villiers, who campaigned for a Leave vote, said the UK would be treated as one nation in negotiations with the EU. The British secretary of state was in Belfast for a day of talks on Brexit and other Northern Ireland-specific issues with the regions political leaders including foreign minister Charlie Flanagan. EU rules are very clear, membership is at member state level. Its a national question, its not possible within EU rules to have a part of a country being part of the EU. So this decision has been made, the people of the UK have voted to leave the EU. That decision is going to be respected, thats what the government will take forward, she said. Ms Villiers said particular interests in Northern Ireland, primarily the fact it shares a land border with an EU state, would need to be protected in the talks. Northern Ireland secretary Theresa Villiers meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan, First Minister Arlene Foster, and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness She again moved to allay fears expressed by communities on both sides of the border that free movement of goods and people will be curtailed after Brexit. I believe we can keep a border which is as open and free-flowing as it is today, she said. I believe it is in the interests of both the UK and Irish governments to do that. Its clear both governments want to keep an open border. I believe, in those circumstances, its going to be deliverable. It will take some common sense, it will take some negotiation, but its not rational for the EU to want to block something which is in the interests of one of its remaining member states ie, Ireland. The jury returned a verdict of accidental death in accordance with the medical findings at the inquest into the death of 59-year-old James Gleeson, the owner of the laundry, on July 13, 2013. One woman was stranded in an apartment over the building at the centre of the explosion and rubble and clothing were blown onto rooftops. The laundrette was demolished and there was a strong smell of gas from the premises. A number of guests were trapped in bedrooms at the nearby International Hotel and were rescued by the fire service. Within hours, everyone was accounted for and safe, except the owner of the laundry, Mr Gleeson, a married father of one, from Countess Rd. Mr Gleeson would normally leave home to start work early and this Saturday in July was set to be busy. He was arranging to join his wife, Grace ONeill, and son Eoin, then aged 18, later that day in Kilkenny. They had gone to visit her parents the previous day, Ms ONeill said in a deposition read for her by Superintendant Flor Murphy. Calls started coming into Killarney Garda Station at around 6.20am of an explosion. When they arrived on the scene the laundrette was destroyed and there was a strong smell of gas. This was a major incident, Garda witnesses told the inquest. Tractors, diggers, and cranes were called in to deal with large amount of rubble as well as loose beams and girders. The Health & Safety Authority was also on the scene. There was no evidence of any criminal act, said Garda James OBrien, an expert mechanical equipment examiner. Mr Gleesons body was discovered by a fireman on Sunday and was identified by his lifelong friend, John Maguire. He had suffered injuries in accordance with a gas explosion, and had died as a result, Dr Margot Bolster had found. Coroner for South Kerry Terence Casey, who knew the deceased, said Mr Gleesons death was a terrible loss and the scene had been devastating. Nobody could have survived it, he said. The coroner thanked the neighbours of the Gleesons whose premises had been extensively damaged, yet who stood by the bereaved family, despite the loss of business. Their businesses were closed but nobody complained because they sympathised with your tragic loss, the coroner told Grace, Eoin, and Donagh, the late Mr Gleesons brother. The coroner also thanked the emergency services, gardai, and fire service personnel. Mr Coveney confirmed that the process, which he hopes will start in September, will include a re-examination, by a new panel of experts, of the complex issues considered last year by the Cork Local Government Review (CLGR) committee. The five-person group, chaired by business consultant Alf Smiddy, was split three-to-two in favour of a merger. The decision triggered a judicial review by Cork City Council. Mr Coveney told the Irish Examiner that while a merger is not off the table, other options may emerge during the review. Well take a fresh look at this, It will probably involve new people. Sometimes, a fresh pair of eyes and maybe some new thinking is helpful when youre trying to find middle ground, he said. There was a lot of controversy on this issue when the [merger] report was launched and my job is to take the politics and heat out of that, initially, and then sit down with the stakeholders in the city and county to find a middle ground thats good for Cork, and that both city and county chambers will support. I think its possible to do that. Its not easy, but its possible. I intend on trying to do that before the end of the year. The CLGR group was established by former Environment Minister Alan Kelly in January 2015. Under Mr Smiddy, the group which included former Kerry county manager Tom Curran, John Lucey SC, and UCC academics Dermot Keogh and Theresa Reidy, was tasked to review the local government arrangements in Cork, to consider the case for a city boundary extension, and make recommendations for improving the regions local government arrangements. Following months of public consultation, the CLGR published its final report last September, recommending a merger of the two councils. However, Mr Keogh and Ms Reidy published a minority report, which argued for an extension of the city boundary and the retention of both councils. Alf Smiddy and former Environment Minister Alan Kelly Mr Kelly agreed with the merger recommendation, which he said would achieve the benefits of addressing the boundary issue, while avoiding the disadvantages that would arise from transferring substantial resources and compensation payments between the councils. The merger recommendation split the city and county. Cork City Council has sought a judicial review of the CLGR process, and the Smiddy report was shelved. Mr Coveney said he recognises that implementing changes to the regions local government structures will be difficult unless both councils are on board. I have a unique opportunity now, as a Cork person and as the minister with responsibility for this area, to find a compromise that the city and county are comfortable with, he said. What we need to do is find a proposal that can maintain autonomy for the city, while at the same time ensuring that we have representation that links the city and county in a way that ensures Cork as a region is being represented in a more seamless way. Confirmation of the review comes as the Department of Environment finalises a national planning framework a strategy to determine what Ireland will look like in 20 to 30 years. Mr Coveney said Cork, with a population of some 500,000, should be the dominant driver for growth and job creation outside Dublin. I think Cork can feature in a very significant way in that plan, so we need a governance structure that sees those opportunities and can respond to them, he said. Despite the impacts Brexit could have on this country particularly in trade, the border and movement of people Mr Kenny used some of his time at a meeting of European leaders to lobby on behalf of Scotland. Last night Mr Kenny came under fire from Ukip for interfering in the internal affairs of the UK at EU level. After a crunch EU summit in Brussels, Mr Kenny confirmed he had passed on the view of Nicola Sturgeons Sottish National Party (SNP) that Scotland had a very strong belief that they should not be dragged out of the European Union having voted to stay. Scottish Ukip MEP David Coburn said Mr Kenny had acted as a gofer for the SNP and said he would be better off ensuring the prosperity and democratic self-governance of the Irish people. Instead of acting as a trouble-making messenger boy for the SNP, Enda Kenny would be better off explaining to Ms Sturgeon that national democracy and EU membership are incompatible. Scottish Ukip MEP David Coburn Scottish first minister Ms Sturgeon, who was in Brussels yesterday, welcomed Mr Kennys intervention on her behalf. She said she had spoken to Mr Kenny a few days before the referendum. I spoke to him again on the telephone yesterday [Tuesday] asking him to make Scotlands voice heard and I know he has done that, and by all accounts he had done that very effectively and I am very grateful to him for that, she said. Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon Mr Kenny yesterday said David Cameron had told him he would give whatever help he can to retain an open border between Ireland and the North. The Taoiseach reminded EU leaders of the critical position Ireland now finds itself in relation to a Brexit. Mr Kenny last night told the Fine Gael party meeting that Ms Sturgeon had told him her country would have no power to stop Britain implementing its exit from the EU through article 50. Party sources said Mr Kenny described how the Conservatives would need space deciding on a new leader, by September, and then more space to agree their position for Brexit negotiations. The European Council, the leaders, would then take the lead in the talks and Mr Kenny would be at the heart of those, the meeting heard. Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell OConnor said IDA and Enterprise Ireland bosses had reported no alarm bells from multinationals or foreign companies here threatening to leave following the Brexit vote. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) said it has not looked into the huge hikes in the cost of insurance which have hit motorists across the country as it is concentrating its resources in areas it believes it will have the greatest impact. A spokesperson for the CCPC said it is acutely aware of the impact of increasing costs on consumers but added that it could make more efficient use of its resources elsewhere. The 44-year-old woman was found yesterday morning in Dublin city centre. She had been missing for five days and nights. A search party of approximately 100 people, made up of members of the Finglas community where Karen was from, had been looking for her since she went missing last Friday afternoon. Sound artist Danny McCarthy stands in Triskel Christchurch, enveloped in the lulls, whispers and fractured cacophonies of his latest installation, titled (Re)writing (Hi)story (A Sonic Opera). Commissioned by the Triskel Arts Centre, which McCarthy helped to found in 1978, the piece combines sonic and visual elements in response to the wording of the 1916 proclamation. The installation features the voices of three men, three women and three children reading from the proclamation, but if visitors imagine that theyll hear the familiar words read by Pearse on the steps of the GPO on Easter Monday in 1916, theyre wrong. Instead, McCarthy has applied the principles of composer John Cage, an adherent of zen Buddhism who wanted to remove ego from composition, using indeterminacy (chance elements which dictate the composition or performance of a piece of music) and various types of algorithmic composition. Cage, best known for his ambient piece, 433, developed a process called mesostics for composing: similar to an acrostic poem, horizontal lines of text are arranged to form vertical words. McCarthy used this technique to reorder the words of the proclamation before recording performers reading the arrangements, and uses a CD shuffle system to play back the recordings so that they are never replicated; every listener hears a completely new combination of voices. The sentences and wording of the proclamation come back in different guises, he says. You cant go away and tell someone, God, you should go in and listen to the quiet section, because itll never be the same again. The result is an occasionally beautiful and mesmerising sound-scape, largely devoid of any recognisable narrative. Its open to new interpretations and thats how I think it should be, McCarthy says. The proclamation is not something thats set in stone; we have to reinterpret everything all the time. McCarthy has been no stranger to political work in his art; during the H-Block hunger strikes of 1981 he produced an installation called H, where a vast capital H was planted with seeds and watered and tended through its life cycle: I wanted to change how people even viewed the letter H in the context of that time. I wasnt there when it happened, but I was told that the day Bobby Sands died the whole thing wilted. Ive also had work removed from the Crawford because it was political, he says. Sure, you can go back to Marxist philosophy and say that every art work is political, you can ask, Who made this paint? But that doesnt bother me anymore. I just want to make art. McCarthys message may not be political but he chose to include childrens voices as a symbol of hope for the future. One of the children was his own granddaughter: When I recorded her, she struggled over the words; this beautiful innocence came across in her voice. When I played it back to her she said, Grandad! Im a much better reader than that, can I do it again? but if she had, it wouldnt have had that beauty. McCarthy worked on his concept during a residency at the Rauschenberg Foundation earlier this year. Robert Rauschenberg, sometimes described as a neo-Dadaist, bought up properties on the island of Captiva in Florida in the 1960s, as developers began to recognise the islands potential for lucrative holiday homes. The resulting estate is home to Rauschenbergs studio. Inspired by Rauschenbergs Erased de Kooning Drawing, McCarthy produced a series of Erased Proclamations, paintings which erase the text of the proclamation, as well as collages of torn up and reordered proclamations to accompany his audio installation. And theres no sign of anyone getting out a gun just yet. See you all 6pm this Sat 25 June for launch of DANNY MCCARTHY show (RE)writing (Hi)story (A Sonic Opera) pic.twitter.com/Nqlgpbrlu5 Triskel Arts Centre (@TriskelCork) June 20, 2016 The countdown to school holidays is on, and parents all over Ireland are rejoicing eight whole weeks blissfully free of school lunches and homework. I was in that gang too, until I realised that as a newly-turned work-at-home parent, having my kids with me all summer will be something of a challenge. Until last year, I worked in an office, and used a childminder, so summers were very like the rest of the year, but with lighter traffic. Now, school is my childcare, and I work while theyre there, so summer takes on a whole new and petrifying meaning. However, its not just work-at-home parents who face a challenge. Caoimhe Ni Dhuibhinn works full-time in Failte Ireland, and isnt entirely sure how she will manage when her two younger children, Sean seven, and Saoirse, five, finish up for school holidays. They go to a creche at the moment, but during summer well be juggling a bit, because we dont want to leave them in there full-time, and it costs a lot too. Because theyre of school-going age now, theyll know its holiday time, and that half their friends arent in creche, because theyve been taken out for the summer. Caoimhe Ni Dhuibhinn works full-time in Failte Ireland, and isnt entirely sure how she will manage when her two younger children, Sean seven, and Saoirse, five, finish up for school holidays. They go to a creche at the moment, but during summer well be juggling a bit, because we dont want to leave them in there full-time, and it costs a lot too. Because theyre of school-going age now, theyll know its holiday time, and that half their friends arent in creche, because theyve been taken out for the summer. She has enrolled them in a camp in July, but she or her partner Patrick will need to take time off to collect them, because the camp ends at 2pm. This is a general problem for parents camps are great, but the hours are rarely a fit with typical office hours. Also, it doesnt make sense to use up precious annual leave while the kids are in camp, especially for parents like Caoimhe who are trying to stretch that leave to cover eight weeks of summer. It means were juggling the time off between us, so we wont get much time together as a family. Yvonne Fahy works in management consultancy and has three children, Clodagh, six, Cian, three, and Sam aged one. Our creche charges an extra 35 per half-day when the school is closed, so random days off are expensive. For summer last year, we left our five-year-old in creche full-time. This year were going to try various camps and see how it works out. Its a bit of a juggle, as they tend to finish at 2 pm or 3pm and I work full days, so Im not really sure how Ill manage it, says Yvonne. Dealing with summer holidays is difficult when you work full-time, but is it any easier for part-time workers? In theory, yes, but in practice, those who dont normally use formal childcare can face an even bigger hurdle trying to find solutions during summer holidays. Aveen McEntee is a nurse in Dublin, working a mix of weekdays and weekends. Her parents mind her two children, Ava Kate, seven, and Sive, four, when she works weekday afternoons, but shes not sure that will be feasible during the summer. Mum and dad are at an age where its grand for them to take them for a few hours but not a whole day. In the summer, I might get them to take them in the afternoons and pay for a babysitter in the mornings. Like Caoimhe, she is hoping to enrol her children in some camps to break up the summer. Im going to try to do a few extra shifts in July so we can pay for them to do camps in August. That eats into family time, but thats the juggling act. I want the kids to be happy and secure and I dont want them to be just passed around the place; its hard to find that balance. Parents who are self-employed and work at home often try to get through summer without any childcare at all such as Dr Naomi Lavelle, owner of Science Wows, a website dedicated to sparking kids interest in science. She has three children at school, Caer, 11, Culann, 10, and Rohan, six, and, with her husband Diarmuid who is also self-employed, she works around the children. Basically, its a case of getting up a bit earlier to work in the morning before the kids get up, and in the evening or late at night, too. I dip in and out during the day, but thats very unproductive! Her husband often schedules his work so he can care for the children to leave Naomi free to work and, when theyre stuck, they have back-up options. Dr Naomi Lavelle with Rohan, Culann, Caer, and husband Diarmuid. With both parents self-employed, its a case of getting up earlier to work in the morning before the children wake, or working in the evening or late at night, though grandparents are a big help Although my parents dont live near me, theyre very good. Our babysitter lives right next door to us and my lovely mother-in-law is also a great back-up, she has helped us out a lot. It sounds like a juggle regardless of working hours, so do parents feel that the school holidays are too long? It depends on how and where those holidays are spent, says Caoimhe. In so many families, there are two parents working, and those long summer breaks are a challenge. The kids dont necessarily benefit from eight weeks off when theyre not getting to do things and really experience summer. Aveen thinks six weeks would be about right. I do think come mid-August they need the routine back as much as we do too. Eight weeks is a lot. The kids are beginning to get bored and a bit ratty, especially if its raining! Summer holidays in Ireland are a little longer than in some of our European counterparts in Germany, its six weeks, and in the UK its six to seven weeks for many schools. Luxembourg and France have more time off, but employees typically have more annual leave than we do in Ireland, too. So do Irish children really need eight weeks? Roisin Carey, who teaches in Hollypark GNS in Dublin feels they do. Its a prolonged period when children can rest, recharge their batteries, and enjoy a sense of freedom away from the restrictive regulations of school. The summer holidays provide them with the opportunity to play, explore the arts, and engage in outdoor activities. Its eight weeks of the year when children can really be themselves. Theyre only children for a very short time and should have a number of weeks each year to play freely. Naomi Lavelle also doesnt feel the holidays are too long. I think we all need it, eight weeks works well. I always feel a bit sad when theyre going back, but I also look forward to it too. Summer options If your children are in after-school or at a creche, you can probably book them in for full days during summer, though it can be expensive, at up to 8 per hour. Some after-school providers spread the costs throughout the year, so fees dont go up during holidays. If you have a childminder who works afternoons only, she may agree to work mornings too during summer, but this will cost extra. Camps are fun for kids, though many finish mid-afternoon, and costs add up if your children do multiple camps. If you work part-time, try sharing a childminder with another family. Grandparents who live nearby may be able to help. Take annual leave, and dont forget that parental leave, while unpaid, is a legislative right. The trailer reveals that Shadaloo has gotten its hands on some tech that will unleash havoc upon the world. But thankfully, there are some willing to take the fight to the group. The synopsis says that Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li embark on a journey around the world to retrieve fragment pieces that are the key to stopping the Black Moons before its too late. Of course, along the way, theyll meet the rest of the World Warriors who have their own agendas and motives. The trailer sees familiar faces squaring off against one another, including Chun-Li being talked down to by Bison, and Guile facing his old friend, Nash. From the 16th to the 30th of July, eight films will delve deep into this sub category, pulling out terrifying tales of small towns and superstition and more than a few pagan rites held under cover of darkness. It all kicks off with 1968s Witchfinder General and runs up to 1999s The Blair Witch Project - a film which was undoubtedly inspired by the folk horror world but also managed to have a massive influence on the genre as a whole, perpetuating the popularity of found footage films. For better or worse. The Honor 8 has been the subject of the rumour machine for a good while now, with a recent submission to TENAA in China also revealing some of its specs. We're looking at a 5.2 inch screen at 1080p, as well as up to 4 gigs of RAM and 128 gigs of storage. We're hearing there's a 12MP shooter on the back (there may be some kind of dual lens setup) and an 8MP selfie cam. Huawei has sent out official invites to the reveal of the new phone, which will take place in China on the 11th of July at 18.30 local time - that's 11.30 in the morning Irish time. It is expected that the phone will be available very soon after in China but there's no word on an international roll out just yet. FATAL foetal abnormality is a term that has been bandied about as the clincher to force politicians to deal with abortion, which means, of course, repealing the 8th Amendment so that enabling legislation can be passed. But an abstract argument does not capture the public imagination, so real-life stories are now being embedded in the arguments for expanding abortion legislation in Ireland. The stories are moving and sad. Emotionally, it matters little whether you are pro-life or pro-choice. You feel the devastation of this strange intrusion of death into a pregnancy narrative that should be all about life and joyful expectancy. The agony of waiting for new life, knowing it is doomed, is heart-wrenching. Abortion does not erase this pain, but it may appear to offer earlier closure. It is the choice of some women in this situation, who see it as a way of bringing forward the inevitable and of allowing them and their families to get their lives back on track sooner. Is it not humane to allow them that choice? Surely, is abortion not justified in this instance, if in no other? What argument can there be in maintaining a rigid, principled position just for the sake of it, in being more pro-life than nature itself? It is possible to be empathetic with these families and yet point out that the fatal-foetal abnormality argument is dishonest, manipulative, and disingenuous. It is being used by people like TD Mick Wallace to force the door open to abortion on demand. He has said that he believes women have the right to chose for themselves. He rightly judges that fatal-foetal abnormality (and not rape, or any other grounds affecting mother or baby) is the most compelling case for change. TD Mick Wallace The bringing forward of a bill to allow abortion for women whose babies have been diagnosed with fatal-foetal abnormalities is unconstitutional. In fact, it would not suit his agenda, because should the Supreme Court allow this exemption, there would be no need to repeal the 8th Amendment and abortion would be restricted to fatal-foetal abnormality. This would be highly problematic, as fatal-foetal abnormality is not a medical term. It is a construct to justify abortion and you only hear it in that context. As a term, it is also elastic. There are many life-limiting conditions that can be diagnosed as pregnancy advances, and which of these would qualify under legislation is anyones guess. What kind of prognosis will qualify in respect of life expectancy? What conditions qualify as incompatible with life (another elastic term) and which do not? If a healthy foetus suffered lethal damage during a complicated birth, could his or her life be prematurely ended? And say the babys condition was one that would have qualified for abortion before the mother went into labour? Most people in this country would react with horror to such a suggestion. Why? Because a born baby is a human being you can touch; you can look into their face. You can hold his or her hand, and he or she can clasp your finger. That is the only difference. That is why it is easier to deny the humanity of the unborn than any other category of persons. Not surprisingly, countries where abortion has been freely available for many years have made the inevitable transition to euthanasia, the inevitable slippery slope, because you cannot undermine the value of human life for one category of person without undermining it for all. In Belgium, euthanasia has been extended to children and infants, in certain circumstances. America still retains a double standard, whereby babies can be killed at any stage before birth, but cannot be once they are delivered. Bizarrely, no one breaks the law if the baby is just deprived of care and nourishment, and allowed to die within the folds of a blanket on a hospital slab. Taken in its narrowest meaning, fatal-foetal abnormality is understood as an anencephaly, a medical condition where part of the brain fails to develop. It is possible to diagnose whether such a baby can survive birth for longer than minutes. All the stories we hear are from women who have had such pregnancies. The incidence of anencephaly is one in every 100,000 births. It is also reduced radically, by up to 70% in fact, if women take folic acid before becoming pregnant. With such measures for prevention, the incidence becomes minute in terms of birth defects. One wonders what conditions Mick Wallace was referencing when he stated that two babies were born every week in Holles St with fatal-foetal abnormality. Holles St How does he understand the term? Every person born carries a genetic script that predisposes him or her to one or other life-threatening conditions. The story of an anonymous woman, known as Isabel, which featured in this paper, is, like other such stories, a trip-wire argument unless you tread with care. Isabels baby was diagnosed with spina bifida, but she had never heard of anencephaly. We are led to conclude that Isabels baby suffered both conditions. She had a traumatic abortion in England, which greatly added to her suffering. She felt that the experience could have been better at home or in another English clinic. How much different could it be? Abortion centres deal in death, not life. For their staff to do what they do requires a degree of denial that would make them very uncomfortable with a woman who wanted to take away the remains of her baby so she could have an imprint of his feet. That she was handed something that looked like a shoe box containing his remains should not have surprised her. Likewise, when Mick Wallace bemoans the way some women in Isabels situation are posted the remains of their babies in jiffy bags, he should consider the far more degrading treatment of aborted babies in clinics where staff are conditioned to see their remains as medical detritus, apart from the harvested organs that are their sad and ironic legacy to medical research. Another story tells of a woman who chose to carry her baby to full term. Her preferred option, initially, was abortion. The experience of giving birth to a son, at full term, was bittersweet, but life-affirming when compared to the experience of Isabel. She cradled him with the support of staff and had him lie beside her in her bed. She called him Luke, and kept mementos, like photos and foot prints. Finally, she had a burial for him after a non-religious service. She does not say which choice might have been best. Stories like these cast a light on the issue, but what are the narrators stances on abortion? We need to be fully informed and look at these stories dispassionately, as well as sympathetically. The decision to repeal the 8th Amendment is a momentous one and we need to make our decision with the head, as well as the heart. Abortion stories are sad and complex. If there was a way of erasing all difficulty and suffering from life without creating worse consequences, no-one would stand in the way. Five minutes later, Lance Corporal Richie Spence, from Newtownards in County Down, played a lament on the bagpipes by the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey. On this side of the water in both Dublin and Belfast equally solemn events were held to commemmorate the thousands of British soldiers who died in the Battle of the Somme 100 years ago. On the first day of one of the bloodiest battles in human history, 20,000 men from Britain and Ireland perished in just 24 hours. Unionists and nationalists, Protestants and Catholics, from all over the island of Ireland fought and died in this cataclysmic encounter. There are some people alive today in Ireland who lived through that world war and the one that followed it as well as the Civil War. That is a horrifying thought but one that younger generations, in particular, should note when contemplating whether membership of the European Union has been a good thing not just for Ireland but also for Britain and, indeed, all member states. People in their sixties in the south and those under 20 in Northern Ireland have thank goodness never known war and have never experienced the fear and terror that comes with it not just for the combatants but also for their families and loved ones. That should be borne in mind when contemplating the effects of Brexit and the convulsions surrounding the UKs vote to leave the EU. Whatever about its shortcomings and there are many the union of European states has kept the peace among its members. The alliance has fulfilled its first directive which was to end the frequent and bloody wars between neighbours. Six years prior to the Treaty of Rome in 1957 the European Coal and Steel community was formed to ensure that the heavy industries coal and steel came under a common management. Like all good ideas, it was brilliant and simple. By combining coal and steel production, none of the member states could on its own make the weapons of war to turn against the other, as in the past. The EU did not, of course, prevent the Bosnian war of the mid-90s and the genocide committed by Serb forces in 1995 but it has played a key role in stabilising the Balkan region. Croatia is a member. Montenegro and Serbia have started membership talks while the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Albania are candidate countries. The Troubles in the North might never have ended but for the EUs continuing support of the peace process. That puts the shouting and roaring in the European Parliament over Brexit into context. Better a war of words than the real thing. Some of the dead were killed in gunfights with police; others mysteriously turned up on the street. One was dumped with a sign that read: Dont follow me or youll die next. The numbers of bodies have spiked since Duterte swept the May 9 elections on promises to wipe out crime and corruption within six months. That bold pledge won him huge support but also sparked concerns about vigilante justice and a lack of due process. Nicknamed Duterte Harry after Clint Eastwoods character, he says he plans to fulfil his promise despite criticism from human rights advocates and church officials and dares his critics to impeach him. If I couldnt convince you, Ill have you killed. Just imagine if I kill 10 persons a day for the next six years, he was quoted as saying by Cebu Daily News in his native Visayan language, referring to drug suspects. If youre into drugs, Im sorry. Ill have to apologise to your family because youll surely get killed. So far, the threats seem to be working to some extent: Hundreds of drug pushers and addicts have surrendered to police in recent days, signing pledges to reform. Police data show 39 mostly drug-peddler suspects were killed since the start of the year until the election. Some 72 have been killed since then. Nearly 5,000 suspects have been arrested in anti-drug operations since the election, bringing the number of arrests in a nationwide drive to nearly 19,000 since January. Miliband said he had supported Corbyn all the way along, but urged the opposition leader to now reflect on what is the right thing for the country. Britain is facing its worst crisis since the Second World War, Mr Miliband said. He told BBC Radio 4s The World At One programme: I have reluctantly reached the conclusion that his position is untenable. Mr Corbyns camp insisted he was going nowhere and issued a put up or shut up challenge to Labours MPs. Mr Milibands intervention follows a similar appeal from former acting Labour leaders, Harriet Harman and Margaret Beckett. Prime Minister David Cameron also waded into Labours misery, telling Corbyn: For heavens sake man, go. Suggesting that Mr Corbyns political values would be best-served if he quit, Mr Miliband said: I am not a plotter. I am somebody who cares deeply about my country, deeply about my party, deeply about the causes that Jeremy and I care about. I think the best thing on all of those criteria is that he stands down, painful though that might be for him and many of his supporters. Mr Miliband said that if he had been in the same position, I would have gone, and added that Mr Corbyns work could continue. Its more likely to continue, I think, if there is a more peaceful transition than a civil war in our party, the former leader said. People across the party believed that, at this time of acute crisis for the country, Jeremy cannot rise to that challenge,Miliband said. The problem is that it is precisely because of the gravity of the national moment, precisely because we have got to shape this moment in a progressive way, not a right-wing reactionary way, that we cannot have a party leader that 75% or more of the representatives in parliament dont have confidence in. That is an unsustainable position and that is not ideological, it is just a fact of life. I deeply respect Jeremy as a person and, indeed, as a politician, for the causes he has fought for. My judgment is those causes are more likely to be served if he goes. Mr Milibands decision to speak out followed an awkward session of prime ministers questions for the Labour leader. Mr Corbyns arrival in the Commons chamber was met by stony silence from his backbenchers. As he took to the despatch box, many Labour MPs sat with their arms crossed. Mr Corbyn challenged Cameron over disgraceful levels of child poverty and said the referendum result had been a rejection of the status quo. But Mr Cameron hit back by questioning the Labour leaders commitment to the Remain campaign. We all have to reflect on our role in the referendum campaign, he added. I know he says he put his back into it. All I would say is I would hate to see him when he is not trying. Mr Corbyns spokesman insisted that the Labour leader was determined to do the job he was democratically elected to do. The leaders produced no clear route forward for their shaken union after an unusual and emotionally charged summit, but agreed they must make it more relevant to citizens and keep it from disintegrating after Britains vote to leave. The 27 remaining presidents, chancellors, and prime ministers said they are absolutely determined to remain united, said European Council president Donald Tusk. They met without Britain for the first time, but the UK was top of the agenda. The leaders emerged insisting that the four freedoms central to European unity are indivisible: The free movement of people, services, goods, and finances. There is a widespread sense that the post-war project to foster peace via trade has become a bureaucratic, undemocratic behemoth with little meaning for its 500m citizens. The initial EU founding nations in the west lean towards a tighter, closer union, while newer nations in the east want to keep more control with national governments notably of their borders. We all need to wake up and smell the coffee, said Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite, citing immigration as being a key reason for Britains departure. European Council president Donald Tusk Other EU countries are now facing calls for referendums on quitting the bloc. Popular French far-right leader Marine Le Pen pressed unpopular President Francois Hollande in a weekend meeting for such a vote in France, but his government has rejected the idea. Mr Tusk has convened a special EU summit on September 16 in Slovakia to work out a plan forward to keep the EU united. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the lesson from Britains departure is not necessarily either deeper integration or returning more powers to national governments. She said: This is not about more or less Europe as a principle, but about achieving results better. German Chancellor Angela Merkel Combating youth unemployment, for example, could involve both scrapping EU directives and deepening European co-operation, said Ms Merkel. Mr Hollande said one measure he wants considered in Bratislava in September is making it possible for all young people in the EU to have the option of studying or spending time in another member country of the bloc. The coming weeks will be decisive, said Mr Hollande. Europe must show its solidity. Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said the EU should provide young Britons with provisions to continue to feel part of the great European family. Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi He said these provisions could include ad hoc citizenship measures that, for example, would enable them to study in EU universities. He said the leaders agreed Europe cannot allow negotiations on Brexit to drag on forever and cannot pretend like nothing happened. Hundreds more were injured at Ataturk Airport in Tuesday nights terror. The government blamed the attack on Islamic State (IS) extremists but there was no immediate confirmation from the group. Airport surveillance video posted on social media shows the moment of one explosion, a ball of fire that sent terrified passengers racing for safety, while another shows an attacker felled by a gunshot from a security officer blowing himself up seconds later. A growing stream of travellers, some rolling suitcases behind them, fled down a corridor, looking fearfully over their shoulders. Four people fell in front of me. They were torn into pieces, said airport worker Hacer Peksen. The victims included at least 23 Turkish citizens and 13 foreigners, and the Istanbul governors office said more than 230 people had been injured. The victims included at least 13 foreigners and several people remained unidentified yesterday. The toll excluded the three bombers. The bombers had arrived in a taxi and eventually blew themselves up after coming under fire, according to the Turkish government, though there are conflicting reports about exactly where they detonated their explosives. IS has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack, although it did issue an infographic celebrating two years since announcing a caliphate. It claimed to have covert units in Turkey, among other places. Funerals for some of the victims began as Turkish authorities continued to try and piece together how the attack happened. The HaberTurk newspaper reported one attacker blew himself up outside the terminal, and two others opened fire near the X-ray machines. The report said an attacker was shot at while running amid fleeing passengers, then blew himself up at the exit. It said the third attacker went up one level to the international departures terminal, was shot by police and detonated his explosives. As dawn broke over the destroyed terminal, workers began removing debris from the blast. The airport reopened, though flights were subject to cancellation and delay. Turkish PM Binali Yildirim said it appeared that IS, also known as Daesh, which has threatened Turkey repeatedly, was responsible. Even though the indications suggest Daesh, our investigations are continuing, he said. He also suggested the attack could be linked to steps Ankara took on Monday towards mending strained ties with Israel and Russia. He called for national unity and global co-operation in combating terrorism. This has shown once again that terrorism is a global threat, Mr Yildirim said. This is a heinous planned attack that targeted innocent people. Russian president Vladimir Putin phoned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to express condolences for the Istanbul attack, as well as to begin a process of improving relations with the country. Turkey has suffered a series of attacks of increasing frequency that have scared away visitors and devastated its economy, which relies heavily on tourism. The country is also a key partner in the US-led coalition against IS. Turkey is beset by an array of security threats, including from ultra-left radicals, Kurdish rebels demanding greater autonomy in the restive south-east, and IS militants. It shares long, porous borders with Syria and Iraq, where IS controls large pockets of territory. Turkish authorities have blamed IS for several major bombings over the past year, including on the capital Ankara, as well as attacks on tourists in Istanbul. Turkish airports have security checks at both the entrance of terminal buildings and then later before entry to departure gates. The government has stepped up controls at airports and land borders and deported thousands of foreign fighters, but has struggled to tackle the extremist threat while also conducting security operations against Kurdish rebels, who have also been blamed for some recent deadly attacks. The devastation at Istanbuls airport echoed the March 22 attack on the Brussels airport, which killed 16 people. IS claimed responsibility for that attack, as well as an explosion at a Brussels metro station that killed 16 more people. Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel said on Twitter: Our thoughts are with the victims of the attacks at Istanbuls airport. We condemn these atrocious acts of violence. South African tourists Paul and Susie Roos, from Cape Town, were due to fly home at the time of the explosions. We came up from the arrivals to the departures, up the escalator when we heard these shots going off, Mr Roos said. Attacked airport re-opens within 12 hours Ayla Jean Yackley Walking through Istanbul airport to their planes hours after suicide bombers killed 42 people with gunfire and explosives, travellers could almost trace the steps of the attackers from the bullet holes and twisted metal still in full view. Workers replaced ceiling panels, cleanup crews swept up debris, but blood stains and shattered windows were still visible as the departure halls filled again. Turkish Airlines resumed services in and out of Europes third-busiest airport within 12 hours of Tuesday nights attacks, although many flights were rescheduled and it offered refunds to passengers booked via Istanbul for the next five days if they no longer wanted to travel. It was a contrast to the suicide bombings at Brussels Airport which killed 16 people in March. There it took 12 days to reopen the airport, much more heavily damaged, to a thin stream of passenger flights. That Istanbul airport is operating today is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Turkish people and the aviation industry, said Tony Tyler, head of the International Air Transport Association. Tuesdays attack was the deadliest of five bombings in Turkeys biggest city this year. Murat, a tour operator who hung a Turkish flag outside his shop inside the arrivals hall, said Turks ability to put terrible events behind them was a virtue and borne of necessity after decades of fighting extremism. But where some saw defiance in the swift reopening of Ataturk airport, others regretted that such attacks had become all too familiar not only in Turkey but the world at large. Ahead of the November 8 election to replace Barack Obama, the first black US president, the poll also showed significant numbers of Americans in the Republican and Democratic parties view blacks more negatively than whites, have anxiety about living in diverse neighbourhoods, and are concerned that affirmative action policies discriminate against whites. Republicans in the survey expressed these concerns to a greater degree than Democrats, with Trump supporters presenting the most critical views of blacks. The centre-left Labor Party opposes the conservative governments plan to hold a plebiscite this year to allow the public a direct say on whether Australia should give legal recognition to same-sex marriage. Opposition leader Bill Shorten confirmed a newspaper report, days before the election, that he had told Christian church leaders in 2013 that he supported holding such a plebiscite. Labors position now is that Parliament should make the decision on same-sex marriage. Shorten cited as a reason for his change of heart the Irish referendum in May last year in which 62% of Irish voters called for their constitution to be changed to allow same-sex marriage. That debate, while it was ultimately successful, did trigger some very ugly arguments, Shorten told reporters. I think the people of Australia, the majority of them, have clearly moved even in the last two or three years to supporting marriage equality and all popular opinion polls would seem to indicate the truth of what Im saying, he added. Both Shorten and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull support same-sex marriage, but differ on how it should be achieved. Shorten has promised that if his party was elected on Saturday, the first legislation he would introduce to Parliament would be a bill to overturn Australias ban on same-sex marriage. Most marriage equality advocates support Labors approach. Turnbull also previously opposed the plebiscite and the divisive community debate that would precede it. But Turnbull agreed to maintain the governments policy to hold a plebiscite when he defeated Prime Minister Tony Abbott in a leadership ballot in September last year. The plebiscite would cost $160 million, and the result would have no legal standing. Some government lawmakers have already said they would vote down gay marriage in Parliament regardless of the plebiscites outcome. But Turnbull said that if most Australians wanted gay marriage, legislation allowing it would sail through the Parliament. She has expressed concern about Scotland being taken out of the EU against the will of the Scottish people following last weeks referendum. While 51.9% of people across the UK voted to leave the EU, the majority of people in Scotland voted to stay part of the bloc. She said: If there is a way for Scotland to stay, I am determined to try and find that way. Ive found enormous interest in the referendum result, as you would expect, and Ive also had a sympathetic response to the position Scotland now finds itself in, facing the prospect of being taken out of the European Union against our will, a position not of our making and not one we wanted. She held talks with European Parliament president Martin Schulz and the leaders of several of the groups in the European Parliament before meeting with European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, who she said had given her a very sympathetic response. Prior to the talks, he said Scotland had won a right to be heard in Brussels. Ms Sturgeon said it was early in the process but she was confident Scotlands voice was being heard. She said: If we get to a point where it seems to be the case that the only way of protecting Scotlands relationship with Europe is by looking at the option of becoming an independent country, then thats a choice I think the Scottish people have the right to make but Im not saying we are at that point yet. European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker Some leaders have poured cold water on the idea of Scotland joining the EU. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said: If the United Kingdom leaves, so does Scotland. Scotland has no competences to negotiate with the EU. The Spanish government rejects any negotiation with anyone other than the United Kingdom. That sentiment was echoed by French President Francois Hollande, who said: The negotiations will be conducted with the United Kingdom, not with a part of the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, the chief minister of Gibraltar is in talks with London mayor Sadiq Khan as well as Ms Sturgeon to draw up plans to protect their regions in the wake of the Brexit vote. Chief minister Fabian Picardo visited ministers in London on Tuesday to emphasise how crucial staying part of the single market is to Gibraltars economy. Her husband was recounting how she felt about her court experience, as he told Cliffords indecent assault trial at Londons Southwark Crown Court they had not discussed her evidence. He told the jury: Of course, I was curious, but we knew we should not talk about it and we did not. Clifford, 73, is accused of indecently assaulting the woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, in his London office in the 1980s. He denies the charge. He was jailed for eight years in May 2014 after being convicted of a number of charges under Operation Yewtree, the Met Police investigation set up after the Jimmy Savile scandal. The womans husband recalled that probably within a month of their relationship starting in July 2010, his new love described Clifford as not a very nice man to work for. It was around Christmas 2010 when she told him about the alleged assault. He told the court: She basically said to me that he had come towards her with his penis out and locked the door. During the alleged incident, Clifford told the woman you love your job dont you?, the husband said, but Clifford stopped when someone knocked on the door and called his name. The husband said: It was quite a difficult thing for me to hear, even though I did not know her when she was 17 and it was not something I wanted to hear, but I am glad that she told me. It was in May 2014, after Clifford was sentenced, that the woman contacted police about her alleged attack. The husband told the court: Max Clifford had been sentenced; after that time she was very happy he had been sentenced, but the next day she said I feel I need to say something. She said I thought I would feel better now that he has been sentenced. A few days later, his wife sent him a text and called the police. She also said Clifford had left polaroid photographs of naked bodies and vaginas in the office. Their daughter later told the court that n -one in their family had got together to talk about money or possible compensation from the case. The daughter said her mother described Clifford as a bit of a perv. The hearing was adjourned and will resume again at 10.30am today. Burma Armed Forces Chief Thanks NCA Signatories for Constructive Cooperation Burma Army Commander-in-Chief praises the ethnic armed groups that signed the nationwide ceasefire agreement, but accuses others of expanding their forces. RANGOON Burma Army Commander-in-Chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing thanked ethnic armed groups that signed the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) last year for their constructive cooperation, while indirectly criticizing other groups. The armed forces chief alluded to NCA non-signatory groups expanding their forces. He urged them to eschew dogmatism and adopt a peaceful approach through political means. This was suggestive of the militarys ongoing distrust of certain ethnic armed groups, whose participation is key for a comprehensive and sustainable peace deal. Min Aung Hlaing was speaking in Naypyidaw on Wednesday at a meeting with the Peace Process Steering Team (PPST), which represents the eight NCA signatory armed groups. Thanks to the constructive cooperation of the ethnic armed organizations [] throughout the first term of multiparty democracy, we could reach a certain road and sign the [NCA], Min Aung Hlaing said, according to a statement that was posted on his Facebook account on Wednesday. Min Aung Hlaing said that if all concerned paritiesboth NCA signatories and the majority of ethnic armed groups that did not sign the NCAcooperate according to the Union spirit, without upholding dogmatism, then victory will come peacefully and speedily. All need to believe in one another in restoring peace and stability [to] the country in line with liberty, fraternity and equality, he said. PPST members at the meeting represented the Karen National Union (KNU), the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS), the Chin National Front (CNF), the Arakan Liberation Party (ALP), and the ethnic Burman-majority All Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF). PPST members also met with State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi in Naypyidaw on Tuesday, where it was agreed that the Union Peace Conferencenow branded by Suu Kyi as the 21st Century Panglong conferencewould be held in the last week of August. Min Aung Hlaing said on the Wednesday meeting that the military fully wishes to achieve success in the Union Peace Conference. He also said that, although ethnic armed groups can make demands in accordance with their needs, there are also some requirements with regards to responsibility, accountability and a sense of duty. He reiterated the militarys adherence to the Three National Causes: non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty. In the meeting, PPST chairman Saw Mutu Say Poe, who also chairs the KNU, explained the PPSTs plans of including the NCA non-signatory groups in the peace conference. Regarding the NCA non-signatories, Min Aung Hlaing said that the military welcomes and are waiting for their signing of the NCA. He said that the military does not want to see fighting between national brethren, but it has to protect the government administration, and peoples lives and property. However, he said that ethnic armed groups need to achieve their goals through political means, since the military has opened a political platform for them to engage in national affairs. Place and land are not important. It is important that they receive public support and work sincerely on their political goals. They need to put national interests at the fore without partisanship, racism and regionalism, he said. However, he said, Some [ethnic armed] groups are reinforcing their strongholds and expanding their forces out of concern. If they have self-confidence, they need not do so, but should take a peaceful approach instead. He stressed the importance of public support and said that the military was attempting to win the publics trust. After the meeting, Min Aung Hlaing presented gifts to the PPST delegates and posed for photographs. Burma Nearly 200 Burmese Refugees To Be Repatriated From Thailand In a move that could be a forerunner to a wave of repatriations, the Burmese government is working to bring back nearly 200 refugees from Thailand. RANGOON The Burmese government plans to repatriate 196 Burmese nationals displaced by conflict from refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border, according to Burmas Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two countries agreed to cooperate on refugee returns during the visit of Burmas State Counselor/Foreign Minister Aung San Suu Kyi to Thailand last week. The statement released by the ministry on Wednesday said the two governments will start working on repatriation and rehabilitation for the Burmese refugees in Thailand through both short- and long-term planscreating job and educational opportunities and providing health and social services in their places of origin. The government will send a delegation group [to Thailand] to work on the citizenship verification process for the 196 displaced individuals who expressed their desire to be sent back to their original homes, the statement read. The statement did not include a timeline or start date for the process. The ministry told The Irrawaddy on Thursday that citizenship verification would be handled by the Ministry of Labor, Immigration and Population, adding that the whole process of repatriation may take some time. Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kyaw Zeya said his ministry had received information on the 196 refugees through the United Nations refugee agency, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), before the State Counselors visit. He said that 75 percent of the returnees-to-be are ethnic Karen. We also have informed our Thai counterparts of our plan, Kyaw Zeya said. All we need from their side is understanding and patience in dealing with this refugee repatriation issue. According to The Border Consortium (TBC)which provides food, shelter and other forms of support to Burmese refugeesthere are roughly 120,000 refugees from Burma in nine official camps and shelters on the Thai-Burma border, some of whom have resided there for over two decades due to the armed conflicts between the Burma Army and ethnic armed groups. Talks between Thailand and Burma on refugee issues began during the previous administration of President Thein Sein and accelerated after the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) was signed by eight ethnic armed groupsincluding two ethnic Karen groupsin October last year. According to a report in the Bangkok Post, Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said during Suu Kyis three-day visit to Thailand last week that Burma should be given more time to prepare for the safe, voluntary and dignified return of its refugees. The former head of the Royal Thai Army added that, in the meantime, Thailand would continue to take care of the refugees in accordance with humanitarian standards, even though drawing out the process would result in an increased burden on Thailand. According to the UNHCRs report released last week, Burma had more than 450,000 displaced people as of the end of 2015, and its nationals made up the eighth largest group of refugees in the world. Burma Ethnic Alliance Delegation to Meet Peace Envoy A delegation from the ethnic armed alliance United Nationalities Federal Council will meet government peace negotiator Tin Myo Win in Rangoon on Friday. CHIANG MAI, Thailand A delegation from the ethnic armed alliance United Nationalities Federal Council will meet the governments chief peace negotiator Dr. Tin Myo Win in Rangoon on Friday. On Thursday, six delegates led by UNFC Secretary Khu Oo Reh will travel to Rangoon to meet the preparatory committee for the Union Peace Conference, also known as the 21st Century Panglong Conference. The UNFC members did not sign the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) last year. The peace conference was agreed to be held before the end of August during a meeting on Tuesday in Naypyidaw between the eight NCA signatories and State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, who is also the head of the Union Peace Joint Dialogue Committee (UPDJC). Khu Oo Reh, also the vice chair of Karenni National Progressive Party, said the meeting is the follow up from the informal meeting with Dr. Tin Myo Win in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand in early June. Khu Oo Reh said they will have to discuss when to hold a meeting between the UNFC leaders and Suu Kyi. One of the most contentious issuesthe participation of the Taang National Liberation Army, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army and the Arakan Armyhas not yet been included in the agenda for the meeting, but government peace negotiator Tin Myo Win met with NCA non-signatories ealier this month. Other delegates include Gen Sai Htoo of the Shan State Progressive Party, Nai Shwe Thein of the New Mon State Party, Maj Min Htun of the Arakan National Council, Col Solomon of the Lahu Democratic Union and Maj Nyi Lu of the Wa National Organization. Burma International Developer to Return Rangoon Land to Govt A company given land in compensation for a high-profile project cancellation may return nearly half of it, to be used for a scientific research center. RANGOON International developer Marga Landmark is likely to return nearly half of the land granted by the former government in compensation for the 2015 cancellation of a project near Rangoons Shwedagon Pagoda, a senior government official told The Irrawaddy. According to the Department of Science and Technology Permanent Secretary Kyaw Zwa Soe, the land is designated to be used to establish Burmas first research center for metrology, the scientific study of measurement. The move comes at a time when the new National League for Democracy (NLD) government is trying to attract substantial foreign direct investmentto boost its economy and update its infrastructurewhile at the same time placing the frequently opaque and controversial deals made by the previous government under review. The latter policy has resulted in some high profile cancellations, which some worry may scare off investors in a country that has experienced a dramatic shift in executive power. Stretching out across Rangoons Inya Lake near the Sedona Hotel, 17.7 acres of land held by the Department of Research and Innovation under the (now defunct) Ministry of Science and Technology was granted to Marga Landmark in February. Under the previous government of President Thein Sein, the Myanmar Investment Commission granted this land in compensation after the US$300 million multi-use Dagon City 1 commercial development was halted by the government in July last year, following a public outcry over its proximity to Shwedagon Pagoda, Burmas holiest Buddhist site. After the NLD government assumed power in April, the Ministry of Science and Technology was transformed into the Department of Science and Technology under the Ministry of Education. Kyaw Zwa Soe, the departments permanent secretary, said the ministry had complained about the compensatory land grant to the new government as well as to the Union Parliaments Legal Affairs and Special Cases Assessment Commission. So far we have learned that the half of the land we had released will come back to us, he told The Irrawaddy on Thursday. They had complained, he said, because the land grant formed part of more than 33 acres deemed historic because it was the site of Burmas first industrial research department. Upon receiving the departments complaint, the government said they would review the case and attempt to retrieve half of the land grant. So, we are hopeful that this land will come back to us, he said. Founded in 1947, the year before Burma gained independence from the British, the State Industrial Research Institute was charged with furthering industrial development in an independent Burma. Independence hero Gen Aung San, prior to his assassination the same year, reportedly reserved more than 33 acres for the institute at the corner of Kabar Aye Pagoda Road and Thitsar Road in Yankin Township. Burmas first atomic research department was housed in the institute from 1956, by which time it had been renamed the Union of Burma Applied Research Institute. The institute was also the forerunner to current governmental departments of Research and Innovation and of Science and Technology. If we get the land back, it will be the site for a sophisticated lab, depending on the budget we receive, said permanent secretary Kyaw Zwa Soe, referring to the establishment of Burmas first metrology research center, planned since 2014. Currently, nearly half of the total land area is obscured by high green fences, which demarcate Marga Landmarks development site. During an interview with state-run newspaper The Mirror in February, Myanmar Investment Committee Secretary Aung Naing Oo said, The ministry shared the land [to Marga Landmark] from what they had, referring to the 33-plus acres. But sources in the ministry told a different story. A senior official from the Department of Research and Innovation said they had to surrender the land to the Department of Urban and Housing Development under the Ministry of Constructionin late 2015 when the late Ko Ko Oo was still ministerbefore the land was granted to the developer in February with the MICs approval The senior official added that a few developers had previously approached the late minister in pursuit of the land but he refused them all. This time, he was very surprised, but he could do nothing because the order came from upstairs, said the senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not an official spokesman for the department. The senior official said he had been unhappy to see the land allocated to Marga Landmark for its commercial development project. But it was beyond our scope. We are government employees and we have to do as we are told, he said, adding that, The whole area should be a place for scientific research, as it was planned to be. On Thursday, Myanmar Investment Committee Secretary Aung Naing Oo was not available for comment. Zin Mar Aung, a lawmaker for Rangoons Yankin Township in the Lower House of the Union Parliament, was concerned that the new government not give a bad impression to international investorsespecially those who would invest with responsibility and accountability. For this case, as far as I am concerned, it depends on how the government and the company [Marga Landmark] deal with it, the lawmaker said. The company will want to keep the project going. Also, the government doesnt want to deter international investment. They have to compromise. I think itd be better for both sides to think longer term. Burma Mingalar Market Vendors Stage Protest Vendors affected by a fire that destroyed Mandalays Mingalar Market stage a protest, urging authorities to renovate, not rebuild, the structure. MANDALAY Vendors affected by a fire that destroyed Mandalays Mingalar Market staged a protest on Thursday, urging the municipal department and regional government to renovate, rather than rebuild, the structure. Dozens of vendors gathered near the burned market building, saying that the mayor and the Mandalay City Municipal Department (MCDC) are neglecting their desire to renovate the market, and instead plan to demolish it and build a high-rise building. If they build a high-rise, it will be done by a construction company. We will then have to buy back our own shops at a high price, which we cant afford, said Kyaw Kyaw Soe, one of the protesting vendors. The protesters urged a speedy resolution, as they currently have nowhere to sell their goods. They also demanded an investigation into the cause of the fire and swift action against the culprit. During a meeting between vendors and regional government authorities in May, authorities said the building was in disrepair and that rebuilding was the better option. The vendors held a vote, which fell in favor of a major renovation to the existing structure. But they say the MCDC and the mayor have ignored their vote. The cause of the fire is still unknown, and the MCDC said the case is out of their hands and is the responsibility of the Mandalay Division Central Fire Brigade. About 65 percent of stalls at Mingalar Market were destroyed in the blaze on March 22. During a press conference on Wednesday, the mayor said he would listen to the vendors input but still plans to go forward with new construction. We are thinking of rebuilding the ground floor in an open style, like the old structure, for the convenience of the vendors, said Ye Lwin, the mayor. He said the building is not strong enough to be safe or sustainable, which is why MCDC has decided to demolish it and rebuild with a private construction company. Since the plan is to upgrade the fire and safety system, only the ground floor will remain the same as before; the others will follow a different plan. We cant build it exactly like the old building, for safety reasons. And we have to offer the tender to a construction company because we dont have a big enough budget, the mayor said. He added that, in accordance with the vendors request, they would not lose any space in the rebuilding of their shops. MCDC said that a temporary market is almost finished and vendors will be able to relocate to it in July. Burma Women Discuss Peace Process Priorities A conference on womens peace process priorities meets in Naypyidaw to discuss recommendations for Augusts Union Peace Conference. A conference on womens peace process priorities was held in Naypyidaw this week to generate recommendations for a civil society forum to be held in tandem with Burmas upcoming Union Peace Conference. The two-day Myanmar Womens Peace Conferencetitled From the Margins to the Centre: Including Women and their Priorities in Myanmars Peace Processwas co-organized by the Alliance for Gender Inclusion in the Peace Process (AGIPP) and UN Women. Nearly 90 participants discussed women, peace and security, highlighting strategies for womens meaningful participation in the peace process. Mi Kun Chan Non, co-founder of the Mon Womens Organization and a steering committee member at the AGIPP, told The Irrawaddy that the groups gathered common recommendations based on the five main topics discussed during the Union Peace Conference in January. Under the new peace conference model initiated by State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, politics and security affairs will be prioritized on the peace conference agenda, while social, economic, environmental, education and refugee repatriation issues will be highlighted at a parallel civil society organization (CSO) forum. Of course, our collective views will be shared with the civil society forum, added Nang Phyu Phyu Lin, chair of the AGIPP. The Union Peace Conference under the new National League for Democracy (NLD) government will convene in late August, and Suu Kyi encouraged the CSO forum to run concurrently with and provide input to the peace conference. The womens groups have been advocating to set a minimum 30 percent gender quota system to increase womens representation in political leadership. Female parliamentarians and policymakers participated in the talks as well. Meanwhile, some 50-60 CSOs in Burma began organizing the national forum earlier this month. Nang Raw Zahkung, deputy director of the Nyein (Shalom) Foundation told The Irrawaddy that the CSO forum would reflect the voices of civil society groups working in different sectors. So far, CSOs are drafting the term of references, in which they design the aims, process and number of participants. The forum organizers are attempting to consult with local groups in all of Burmas states and regions. They plan to share the draft TOR with all of the groups in an upcoming meeting in July. Given that the Union Peace Conference will begin no later than the last week of August, it might not be possible to cover all of the issues when the conference opens, but CSOs will be able to provide input throughout the conference, explained Nang Raw Zahkung. Business Burma, Thailand Agree To Boost Trade After high-level government meetings, the Burmese and Thai governments are pledging to triple trade volume and improve cross-border infrastructure. RANGOON The Burmese and Thai governments have agreed to boost bilateral trade volume to reach US$20 billion in 2017, Burmas Presidents Office announced on Wednesday. The announcement was made after President Htin Kyaw met Thailands Deputy Prime Minister Tanasak Patimapragorn and Minister of Defense Gen Prawit Wongsuwon on Wednesday in Naypyidaw. Both governments agreed to finish construction of the new Myawaddy-Mae Sot bridge connecting the two countries, which could help boost trade along Thai-Burma border. Myawaddy in Karen State is the largest of four official border crossings for overland trade between Burma and Thailand, with some 150 to 200 trucks crossing through the border station into Burma each day. The Thai delegates also met with State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi, where the talks focused on convening a joint committee to demarcate borders, as well as the development of southeastern Burmas Dawei Special Economic Zone, a project in which Thailand is a primary partner. Other topics of discussion in the meeting included the resolution of labor disputes and ensuring protections for Burmese migrant workers in Thailand, as well as a national verification and resettlement plan for migrant workers interested in returning to Burma. We can reached the target of $20 billion in 2017 if both governments open more border trading posts and crack down on the informal trade, said Than Win, director of the Ministry of Commerce. According to the Ministry of Commerce, Burma currently has 16 border trading posts, four of which border Thailand. Negotiations are currently under way to open another Thailand-Burma post in Mese Township of Karenni State. I think more Thai investment will come, but so far, the figure of bilateral trading is not that high, Than Win said. However, some experts questioned the plausibility of the ministrys goal. The total trade volume between Thailand and Burma was only about US$6 billion last year [2014-2015], so its a little hard to believe they could triple that within a year, but if both governments can control informal trading, it is possible, said Maung Aung, senior consultant with the Ministry of Commerce. Informal trade involves large amounts of smuggling that is known to cross both borders. According to the Ministry of Commerce, the Thai-Burma trade volume fell to $4.8 billion in the 2015-2016 fiscal year, with $1.1 billion linked to four stations along the border. The problem is we have different figures from each country, and data from Thailand is always higher than Burmas, Maung Aung said. So this becomes an issue when it comes to boosting trade. The majority of imports from Thailand are electronics, foods and beverages, agricultural equipment and other home appliances, while exports from Burma include agricultural and marine products. Thailand is second only to China as Burmas largest trading partner; both countries leaders have expressed hope that they will be able to boost total trade in the years ahead. Culture A Song By Any Other Name The future of Burmas cover song tradition is threatened by new laws on intellectual property rights aimed at integrating Burma into the world economy. RANGOON Cover versions of popular hits are common the world over. In Burma, the art of the cover songknown as copy thachinhas been taken to new heights. Some would argue that Burmas copy thachin are not technically even cover songs, but artistically significant creations in their own right due to their unique Burmese-language lyrics and vocal arrangements. With the emergence of a new legal framework for the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR) in Burma, the future of this copy song tradition is being called into question. The Tradition of Copy Thachin Heather MacLachlanauthor of Burmas Pop Music Industry: Creators, Distributors, Censorsdescribes a copy thachin song as one which features melodies, harmonies, and timbres copied more or less exactly from an English-language hit song; the lyrics of copy thachin are always sung in Burmese, and these lyrics are not a translation of the original English. Copy thachin songs are musical covers, but the Burmese language lyrics are new creations and may carry a totally different meaning to the original lyrics. In Burma, copy thachin exist purely in the pop idiom, and are considered to be essentially distinct from Burmese classical music. For the most part, people in Burma are not interested in fusion genres MacLachlan adds; with copy thachin the performers goal is to reproduce the original sounds exactly, so they wont add any local sounds. The act of localizing and bringing new significance to foreign musical compositions with Burmese language lyrics is at the core of the copy thachin tradition. In recent years Burmas music industry has witnessed a variety of changes, and the tradition of copy thachin has been on the decline. This shift away from copy songs is due to a number of factors, according to MacLachlan. MacLachlan highlights three main drivers of the shift: a new generation of musicians who place a high value on producing their own original music, the influence of foreign music producers who dislike copy thachin on principle, and a growing awareness of musical copyright with an understanding that Burmese musicians may face legal repercussions when they sell albums containing copy thachin or play them at concerts. Burmas Emerging IPR Legal Framework The 1914 Copyright Act remains the law of the land governing artistic creations, including musical compositions. This Act does not include any protection for foreign copyright, although the Burmese government is party to a number of international agreements that contain elements relating to IPR, and is in theory required to provide foreign and domestic IPR holders a basic level of legal protection. Burma acceded to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and signed the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement in 1994, joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) in 1997, and became a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in 2001all of which include requirements related to the legal protection of IPR. Under the Thein Sein administration, the Ministry of Science and Technology was charged with drafting a range of new laws and regulations relating to IPR. In July last year, the Ministry issued draft IPR laws, but to date they are stalled at the draft stage. The draft law has already been sent to the parliament. The progress of the discussion at the parliament cannot been seen from outside, Shimpei Yamamoto, the managing director of IPR issues at the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia, told The Irrawaddy late last year. I am optimistic about the progress. An IPR specialist from the Japan Patent Office is now stationed in the Ministry of Science and Technology, helping them to pass the IPR law and establish an IP Office [in Burma], he said. Jakub Ramocki, of the Asean IPR Small and Medium Enterprise Helpdesk, told The Irrawaddy that strong IPR protections are a very important consideration for businesses looking to invest in Burma. The last decade has witnessed a fundamental growth in the importance of the value of IP assets in business, he said. Companies often do not realize the potential lying in intellectual property such as software, in-house databases, brands (even those not registered), reputation, goodwill, supplier lists, customer lists, recipes and/or formulas, and production secrets. These are all IP assets that have value, and can and should be properly managed since they build an image of a company, give competitive edge and influence the value of an enterprise, he said. The unwillingness of some foreign companies to invest in Burma without clear IPR laws was reiterated by Eric Rose, lead director at Herzfeld Rubin Meyer & Rose Law Firms Rangoon office. He told The Irrawaddy, Without [Burma] adopting its WIPO-advised draft IPR laws, including the revised copyright statute, which have continuously been revised for years in various government agencies, there is no chance that foreign investors, or their lawyers, could legally enforce nationwide the protection of their copyrights in [Burma]. The reasons for the delay in bringing the draft IPR laws into force are not entirely clear. Although, given the wide-ranging impacts that this new legal framework will have on Burmas economy, perhaps careful consideration is warranted. Copyright Proponents Proponents of strong IPR enforcement claim that these laws benefit musicians, as well as others in the music business. Peter Fowler, the regional intellectual property attache for Southeast Asia at the US Embassy in Bangkok, told The Irrawaddy, The enactment of a new Copyright Law will have an immediate impact in providing relatively modern legal protection for a full range of artists, composers, performers, and music industry businesses who want to establish legitimate business models. He concluded that the new IPR Laws would provide a stronger tool to both legitimate rights owners and law enforcement officials to go after music pirates. Min Tayza Nyunt Tin, an IPR expert with MN Associates Law Firm, agreed that the current lack of an IPR legal framework is bad for musicians because there is no chance to protect their creation of artistic works. I heard that there are a lot of great local musicians creating very original music in [Burma], said Shimpei Yamamoto of the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia, adding that they would be happy because an IPR law of [an] international [standard] can be a good opportunity for them to expand their market outside of [Burma]. Neil Turkewitz, from the Recording Industry Association of America, noted the potential for a strong IPR framework in the culture industries to kick-start wider economic development, saying, Effective copyright protection promotes economic development, creates jobs and fuels cultural diversity by creating financial incentives for investing in cultural production. As Burmas IPR legal framework slowly emerges, Fowler said musicians and the music industry face two main challenges: getting paid for their work so that they can be financially rewarded for their creative intellectual property, and educating the public and consumerswho in [Burma] are accustomed to not paying very much, if anything, for musicas to why stronger copyright protection and enforcement is good for [Burma], both culturally and economically. Fowler added, The best way to approach public awareness and education is to conduct extensive public campaigns that reach average consumers and users of music and, if needed, to take legal action by filing civil infringement actions against larger scale commercial pirates/infringers who do not comply with the new law voluntarily. Balancing IPR Protection With Fair Use On the other side are those urging caution, pointing to potentially negative impacts on creative expression with the development of wide-reaching IPR laws. Peter Jaszi, a law professor at the Washington College of Law at American University, told the The Irrawaddy that musicians and composers can also suffer from too much IPR. Because everything new incorporates elements that have gone before, too much copyright can burden, inhibit, or distort new creativity. IPR and copyright operate within the wider economy, and often reflect structural power imbalances and inequalities present in the socio-economic arena. Sometimes, laws that are framed as protecting the rights of musicians actually work more to benefit the record companies producing and distributing the music. Its worth noting that, in practice, the real benefits of IPR protection for music tend to be unevenly distributed in most places in the worldthat is, the lions share usually go to the producers who have contractual deals with other members of the music-making community, said Jaszi. If justice for musical-composers were a real goal, it would be good to include some language in the statute that limits or regulates the terms of such contracts, he said. Jaszi recommends countries that are writing new, strong copyright laws balance the additional protections provided with enhanced limitations and exceptions, like the fair use doctrine in the US [which] interestingly and significantly is a topic on which the TRIPS agreement is entirely silent. But that doesnt mean that it shouldnt be part of the legislative deliberation. Two Sides of the Same Coin As seen with the prevalence of copy thachin, Burma could be considered a net importer of copyrighted music, but with local value-added. It is very possible that new strong IPR laws will mean an end this unique form of artistic expression. Finding the correct balance between protecting the ability of musicians to get paid for their musical production and encouraging creativity and innovation through the creative commons is crucial. A well-functioning copyright system fuels both production and access, which are not competing forces but two sides of the same coin. It is a tool of economic emancipation, and an engine of free expression, said Turkewitz of the Recording Industry Association of America. The biggest challenge not only for musicians but also for all the people in [Burma] after passing IPR law is awareness of IPR, said Yamamoto of the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia. He added, If they do not learn what IPR is they cannot utilize it or, in the worst case, they may infringe IPR without recognizing it and get into legal trouble. In the past, musicians from Burma have run against the limits of copy thachin when they travelled abroad to perform for Burmese diaspora audiences, as Heather MacLachlan has documented in numerous interviews with musicians. When they are in the US, they try not to play any of their copy thachin, because theyre worried that they might get in legal trouble if Americans were to hear them. No problems so far, but they worry about it, she said. Soon they may need to worry about it at home as well. Sam Stubblefield has been living in Southeast Asia for nearly a decade and is a keen watcher of political economy and culture in Burma. BURMA Arakan Network Collects Signatures in Support of Resource Sharing The Peoples Resource Network is on a mission to collect 300,000 signatures in support of resource sharing in Arakan State. RANGOON The Peoples Resource Network (PRN) is on a mission to collect 300,000 signatures in support of resource sharing in Arakan State, said Tun Kyi, secretary of the Kyaukpyu Rural Development Association, a PRN partner. Khine Myo Htun, PRN committee member, told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday that they expect to collect 30,000 signatures from each town in Arakan State, with exceptions for Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships where Arakanese peoplethe target participants of the signature campaignare the minority. PRN is comprised of about 30 Arakanese civil society organizations (CSOs) from 17 townships throughout Arakan State. They started the signature campaign in early May and expect to finish in July. During the collection process, PRN has used the slogan Rakhine people own Rakhine resources and has demanded that the government decentralize power and resources, said Tun Kyi, adding that they would deliver the signatures to Union Parliament. In order to decentralize, articles in the military-drafted 2008 Constitution must be amended or replaced, specifically Article 37(a)which states that the government is the owner of all lands and natural resources both above and below groundand Article 37(b), which states that the government can enact necessary laws to supervise extraction and utilization of these state-owned resources. Tun Kyi raised questions about whether the current National League for Democracy (NLD) government was keen to amend the law, since after assuming power in April the NLD denied the peoples demands by appointing a member of their own party, rather than the local Arakan National Party (ANP), in the role of Arakan State chief minister. Even if our efforts are not taken seriously by the Union Parliament and the law is not amended, we will continue to campaign on the issue, he said. Pe Than, Lower House representative for the ANP, said that resource sharing is determined by the 2008 Constitution and that without amending the law, current practices will not change. According to the Constitution, state and divisional governments lack the rights to supervise or tax natural resources, and management power is authorized only to the Union government. We need to amend or replace the law. Even though [CSOs] have demanded resource sharing, the government will continuing ignoring them until the law is amended, said lawmaker Pe Than. Replacing or amending the law will not be easy because 25 percent of parliamentary seats are reserved for military appointees. Pe Than said, If the military opposes [an amendment] in Parliament, it will not succeed. So, it depends on the Armys opinion. He added that the government should specify a percentage of resources for sharingeven 25 percent of the total resources. Even a small amount could become a base from which to extend the amount slowly, Pe Than explained, adding that the struggle for control over resources is linked to larger issues of conflict and unrest in the country. The peace process will be meaningless if the government fails to [decentralize power and resource management], said Pe Than. Khine Myo Htun said, We expect success with Suu Kyis leadership. Pe Than urged the government to provide guarantees to ethnic armed groups regarding resource sharing, especially in changing the relevant laws. Currently all state and divisional governments are subsidiaries of the Union government, while they would prefer separate governance. Similarly, appointing the state and divisional chief ministers through a presidential order is not power sharing, he added. Friday, July 1st, 2016 (12:01 am) - Score 312 The ITS Technology Group, which has built a number of fibre optic and wireless broadband networks in various locations across the United Kingdom, has appointed Pip Shelton to be their new Group Chief Operating Officer (COO). Apparently Pip has built up more than two decades worth of experience after having worked in corporate technology leadership and transformational improvement roles at Capita, ComputerLand and Experian. I am delighted to join ITS at this exciting time. My focus is to develop the growing team, create and refine processes, and technology throughout operations and the wider organisation, ensuring that we deliver a world-class service to our rapidly growing list of clients nationwide, said Pip. In addition to Pip, ITS have also appointed Rod Lawrence as their new Head of Product Strategy, which is thanks in no small part to his 20 years worth of telecoms experience, with expertise in large scale connectivity and WAN networks. In Seoul, South Korea, a fatal accident happened when a sub-contracted worker of Samsung Electronics Service fell down from a 3-story building while he was repairing an air conditioner condenser unit on the building's exterior. The worker, Mr. Jin, has been working in poor working conditions without any safety equipment. Samsung Electronics Service, a subsidiary of Samsung group, is entrusting its machine repair services to subcontractors. Mr. Jin was an employee who belonged to one of the subcontractors. He used to work 14 hours a day. On the day of the fatal incident, the late worker did not even have enough time to eat lunch packed by his wife. Mr. Jin's death is notably related to "The confession - The wives of the union members of Samsung Electronics Service," a video uploaded on Youtube back in 2013, which discusses the poor working conditions suffered by their husbands while working for the tech giant. In the video, a wife of one of the workers said "My husband told me that during the morning meetings, the manager said that the workers might fall down when they install the air conditioner condenser unit outside, especially during the summer." "However, because they do not wear safety equipment, the manager said that workers should fall down from the buildings in a proper manner. If they fall down and die and if their intestines burst, the company would have to spend money to clean their remains, so he told them to fall down well if they do." Another wife said, "My husband never came home before 9pm. When customer satisfactory level is low, then they have to stay behind and have meetings. When they are busy, he comes home at midnight or 1am." "Even during the holidays, he would always carry his equipment tool bag in the car. Because he had to set off right away if there is an emergency request from customers. He has been working like that for almost 20 years. He doesn't even have time to go to restroom, let alone the time to have meals." In additon, the wives of the workers brought up the problem about vacations. They said that having vacations during the summer when it was the busiest time of the year is only a dream. When not busy with work, the workers still have meetings, tests and other activities so they explained, "To their children, their daddy is someone who is not next to them." The subcontractor used to push the workers mentioning of their achievements and pressured them to work till late to work on even one more case. The remaining fellow workers are still thinking today "Mr. Jin's story can be my story of tomorrow." It is tragic that many workers have to work risking their lives in their poor working environment while they work for such a big company in Seoul. As previously reported, Bethesda has been having serious problems with "Fallout 4" PS4 mods. The issues determined were in fact unique to Sony's system, resulting to the studio going back to the backseat and resolve everything. Now, as already expected, the title's mods for the PlayStation 4 console are delayed. And this happened with no given feasible release date. When the studio first released an update for the "Fallout 4" PS4 mod support, it opened various issues and glitches. Surprisingly, most of these are quite unique to Sony's console. Hence the resolution was not easily generated. According to Engagdet, Bethesda has just announced via Twitter their decision to delay "Fallout 4" PS4 mods beta. While there is no possible timeline, the company said that they will update everyone as soon as they have the information. Nonetheless, if players want to experience "Fallout 4" in its original form, there is enough time to do so. One of the known issues between "Fallout 4" mod and PS4 is the size limit. Sony, in one way or another, has only enabled the system to hold mods of up to 900 MB. This is pretty small when compared to Microsoft's 2GB. It is also important to note that Bethesda has seen a great number of issues such as wrong sound format, thus pushing the beta mods to a complete void. We regret to say that the PS4 Mods Beta for Fallout 4 has been delayed. We will update everyone when we can. BethesdaGameStudios (@BethesdaStudios) June 29, 2016 Tech Times, on the other hand, reports that the reason behind the sound format not working is simply due to it being a proprietary. This simply means that sound files in "Fallout 4" mods are not directly supported by Sony's PS4. This, among others, is one of the many obstacles that Bethesda has to jump over. Despite the disappointing announcement, the company should still be praised for coming up with such an idea. After all, "Fallout 4" PS4 mods are a relatively new concept, thus making them work is already an achievement. Originally, "Fallout 4" PS4 mods were promised to be handed out in June. However, with what is happening, the release date remains a complete mystery. Sony has never been synonymous to mobile devices; smartphones are just not their niche. And yet the company always tries and has time and time again released a line of handheld gadgets that are stable, though not particularly the best in the market. One of Sony's more recent releases, the Xperia X, adopted some aspects from Sony's older smartphones. But reviews are saying that Sony may have picked all the wrong characteristics to bring towards the future. Android Police calls it a problematic mix, that Sony may have kept the lower end aspects and thrown away what did make their phones competitive. Of course, the Xperia X still sounds like a decent phone on paper. It is powered by a Snapdragon 500 processor, has 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage. The battery is respectable at 2620mAH and the device is installed with Android 6.0 Marshmallow software. The screen is 5 inches. Meanwhile, the rear and front cameras are 23 megapixels and 13 megapixels respectively. Naturally, the Xperia X has plenty of goods in it as well. The display is bright and accurate and the battery lasts roughly a day and a half with moderate use. Android 6.0 Marshmallow also doesn't come with many pre-installed applications, so it is relatively clean and simple at the beginning. Despite these good points, however, there are a few negative things to point out as well. As Pocket Lint points out, the Sony Xperia X is not waterproof - which is odd, because the Xperia Z was. Other complaints about the device include a hollow touch, as Sony opted out of a glass rear in place of a plastic one. There have been other complaints about activation of the device while in pockets and lack of a fingerprint scanner. While the camera, which in numbers trumps many of the devices out in the market now, also leaves much room for improvement. It reportedly has terrible low-light, even loses detail in better light and has no optical stabilization. All in all, the Sony Xperia X is not a bad device by a long shot. But for the price of $550, there are other more suitable options out in the market. Will Microsoft stick to its plans to unify Skype once again when it releases its anniversary update for Windows 10 on 2 August? Or will those plans, disclosed back in March, change? At that time, there were plans to also continue to release the separate Skype apps for video, messaging and calling. If Skype is unified, this will take it full circle: it was once unified, then it was split into separate apps for messaging, calling and video, and now the plan is to put it together again. At least it was so in March. Changes are being made in the run-up to the big release. Microsoft has decided to get rid of a feature called Messaging Everywhere which would have enabled users of phones running Windows to deal with text messages using the same app from their PCs. Mac users have been able to do for at least two years. Now messaging will be bundled into Skype. In a blog post, Microsoft noted that it had been testing with Windows Insiders users who sign up to serve as guinea pigs to test new features a "preview of the 'Messaging everywhere' feature that allows you to receive and send text messages from your Windows 10 phone directly to and from your Windows 10 PC". Then, in what seems to contradict the statement above, the post continues: "The experience was well-received by Insiders, however we believe we can deliver an even better experience through the Skype app. Because of this, we decided not to release this feature as part of the Windows 10 Anniversary Update this summer. "Starting with Build 14376 and going forward, Insiders will no longer have the ability to reply to text messages from their phone via the Messaging app on their PCs." Also, there is no indication, yet, of what Microsoft will do with Skype for other platforms like Mac OS X, Android, iOS or Linux. Will users on these platform be left to languish with old versions which lack bug-fixes and features? The Linux version is already very long in the tooth. Comment was ought from Microsoft last week but the company is yet to respond. Disclosure: iTWire uses Skype for communication on various platforms. A security researcher who has a track record of finding leaked databases online says he recently found a 2014 version of the World-Check database that contains the names of 2.2 million heightened-risk individuals and organisations. Chris Vickery reported the finding on Reddit and said he had not indulged in any hacking to obtain the leaked data. The World-Check database is owned by Thomson Reuters which bought it, as part of a company it purchased for US$530 million a few years ago. Vickery contacted Thomson Reuters and says the company is now working to get the database secured. There has been no official statement issued by Thomson Reuters about the breach which may have been by a subscriber or else an outside agent. Vickery asked Reddit users whether he should release the data to the world. According to Vice News, which broke the story, Nihad Awad, the executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, and the organisation itself are listed as terrorists. British Liberal Democrat politician Maajid Nawaz, who runs a counter-extremism think tank Quilliam, also figures in the terrorism category. Former World Bank and Bank of England advisor Mohamed Iqbal Asaria is a third prominent individual to figure among those associated with terrorism. iTWIre contacted Thomson Reuters for its reaction. The company responded: "Thomson Reuters was yesterday alerted to out-of-date information from the World-Check database that had been exposed by a third party. "We are grateful to Chris Vickery for bringing this to our attention, and immediately took steps to contact the third party responsible - as a result we can confirm that the third party has taken down the information. "We have also spoken to the third party to ensure there will be no repetition of this unacceptable incident." On its website Thomson Reuters describes the World-Check database as "the gold standard in PEP (politically exposed people) monitoring, AML (anti-money laundering) screening and financial crime control. Through its extensive negative media research it acts as an early warning system for hidden risk". It says further that "25% of World-Check data is derived from information on sanctions, watch or regulatory and law enforcement lists. The remaining 75% consists of PEP information as well as individuals and entities not found on official lists, but who instead are reported to be connected to sanctioned parties, or reported to have been investigated for, or convicted of engaging in, financial crime related activities." Adobe has formed a new global group the Cloud Signature Consortium to bring together leading industry and academic organisations in a move it designed to build a new open standard for cloud-based digital signatures across mobile and web. Adobes announcement coincides with the 1 July European Union signature regulation (eIAAS) coming into effect, helping to facilitate the global adoption of secure digital signatures. Adobe says it has formed the Cloud Signature Consortium with the aim of advancing an open standard for cloud-based digital signatures. In addition to Adobe, initial members, which span EU cloud-based digital signature providers, trust services providers, academics, and standards and security focused organisations, include: Asseco Data Systems (Poland), Bundesdruckerei / D-Trust (Germany), Cryptolog / Universign (France), Docapost / Certinomis (France), InfoCert (Italy),Intarsys Consulting (Germany), Intesi Group (Italy), Izenpe (Spain), SwissSign (Switzerland), Graz University of Technology (Austria) and Unibridge (Norway). With more than six billion digital and electronic signature transactions processed each year through Adobe Sign and Adobe Document Cloud, we are focused on moving the signature industry forward. Today, in collaboration with the Cloud Signature Consortium, we are proud to advance an open standard for cloud-based digital signatures, Bryan Lamkin, executive vice-president and general manager of digital media, Adobe, said. Adobe has a history of pioneering and advancing industry standards like PDF. We embrace open standards and, where none exist, we help create them. Lamkin says the new standard created by the consortium will be critical to furthering digital transformation of business on a global scale by giving everyone access to secure digital signature solutions across a full range of cloud applications and mobile devices, and once implemented, the standard will benefit processes where signer identification is critical, such as applying for a marriage or business licence, social security benefits, or signing for a large loan. Initially focused on the EU, the Cloud Signature Consortium aims to build a global network of industry contributors and intends to release new standard specifications by the end of 2016 ith the first cloud-based implementations to follow shortly after. Lamkin says the consortium was inspired by the need to meet the highest level requirements of the European Unions Regulation on Identification and Trust Services (eIDAS), but its impact is expected to be global as demand for highly secure digital solutions continues to rise. What would you say if you had 3500 shops in a shopping centre? Seasoned shoppers would slip on comfortable shoes, but virtual ones would make a cuppa and just go shopping. Aussie Mega Mall (AMM) has become the largest online shoopping centre in Australia 3500 shops and growing, compared to 522 at Australias physically largest shopping centre at Westfield Bondi Junction in Sydney. Chief executive and founder Darryl Reeves said AMM, which recently opened its Australian training centre on the Gold Coast, had been created to give local stores a way to fight back against the huge number of foreign stores coming into Australia and buying their way to the top of search engines". In a growing number of retail categories, it is now difficult to get an Australian retailer on the first page or two of search engines. We aim to stop this because it's very bad for Australian business, the economy and, importantly, it's very bad for Australian people, Reeves said. Australian online shopping is showing no signs of slowing. The NAB online retail sales index for April 2016 estimatd that Australians spent $19.6 billion on online retail in the past 12 months. Small retailers represented just over a third of online sales but grew fastest, 18.1% year-on-year. Reeves added that Australia had more than seven million online Australian shoppers, and AMM enabled them to browse hundreds of aisles and thousands of stores without the need for time-consuming searches, frustrating dead-ends or even fumbling with keypads or keyboards. The site is 100% touch friendly perfect for mobile devices. Every store looks like, and works like, an app and can be found on page one of the aisle of a shopper's choosing. It's fast, simple, convenient, and beautiful, he said. Any Australian online store, from small to large, can list their online store free, knowing they will be on "page 1" of the site. There are also 15 premium paid spots in each category. These include nearly every family-friendly category, including fashion, toys, electronics, homewares, travel and health products. Listings can have digital brochures, their daily deals, coupon codes and access to AMM membership for extra promotion and discounted products. Many businesses can be Skyped directly from the site. Were the only business Skype directory anywhere as far as I know. The mall was built by Australians for Australians and excludes Australian drop shopping stores which managed stock and processing overseas, he said. Drop shopping could well be the death knell for many Australian online stores if we do not unite and collectively showcase. Drop shopping is doing to Australian online stores what the large grocery chains have done to the small cornerstore put them out of business! We want to give the small online business owner all the support we can. Upcoming features include social media links, listings for offline businesses, professionals and B2B (business to business), auction site, classifieds, loyalty points, and an AMM app. Plans include opening a New Zealand store this year, as well as shopping centres in the US, UK, Japan, Fiji, and South Africa in 2017. This has the potential to be a gigantic business on a global scale. On the eve of the federal election, Internet Australia chief Laurie Patton has made a last ditch appeal for bipartisan support by the major political parties for deploying the best long-term technologies and infrastructure to meet Australia's needs now and well beyond 2020. Pattons call on the Coalition and the Labor Party repeated many times prior to, and during, the election campaign is all about the National Broadband Network being rolled out across Australia, and viewed by many, including the IA, as inferior to similar networks to which other countries, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, are committed. One of our biggest regional competitors, Singapore, already provides consumers with Internet access at speeds 100 times faster than ours. New Zealand is in front of us in a number of rankings and is ahead in its overall broadband rollout. Indeed, only last week the founding chief executive of NBN Co, Mike Quigley, slammed the Coalition for making a huge miscalculation with the networks use of copper access technologies, rather than the original fibre-to-the-premise (FttP) based NBN. Patton and the IA, and a wide spectrum of business and industry leaders, see the NBN model based on mixed technology, including ageing copper and an HFC network not a full fibre network as vastly inadequate to meet Australias medium- to long-term broadband needs. The IA wants a review of the NBN by the newly elected government, an end to short-term planning and a focus on the long-term well beyond the scheduled completion of the NBN rollout in 2020. There is real and genuine concerns in technical circles and in the public arena that needed to be addressed, at a time when Australia has well justified ambitions to become a leading innovation nation, Patton says. For some time now weve been calling for both sides to take the politics out of the NBN so that we can agree on a bipartisan strategy. Australians need greater transparency and confidence in this project. We need to stop talking about what you need now and start talking about what youll need 10 years from now and 15 years from now. We need to see the NBN as a long-term project budgeted as an investment over 20-50 years, not treated as an expense over a four-year budget cycle. The board and management of NBN Australia needs the freedom to move forward in the knowledge that there is broad support for the work being undertaken and free from ongoing controversy. The only way this can happen is if we have an agreed bipartisan approach. Patton says there is already bipartisan support for many aspects of the project, including the position of NBN Australia as a broadband wholesaler, eventual coverage of 100% of the population, FttP in all greenfield estates of 100 premises or more, fixed wireless and/or satellite service for rural, regional and remote areas where a fixed line is not feasible. When the Snowy Mountains Scheme was launched it did not have bipartisan support. However, once the project was underway, both sides of politics came together and agreed that it was a critical piece of infrastructure and it was universally supported. We need the same approach to be taken with the NBN. Regardless of the technologies used, we should encourage people to sign up to the NBN once it becomes available in their area. The more customers on board, the more revenue that will be available to fund the future rollout and the less nbn Australia will need to borrow. Patton has repeatedly made the point that the Internet is an essential service required to drive a digitally-enabled economy and to underpin Australia's social and economic progress. That means all Australians must have reliable, affordable access to a high-quality, high-bandwidth broadband service for both upstream and downstream traffic wherever they live and work, he says. If the Internet is to reach its potential for good it is essential that we make it available to everyone. Gaining employment, dealing with government, and engaging in a wide range of community activities will increasingly require digital skills. We need to build our economic and social future around a connected world where everyone has access to the Internet and knows how to use it. No matter how good the honeymoon, the reality of working inside even the most desirable organisations is that there is often mundane, repetitive work to do, and lack of automated or mobile systems to do it. It soon makes the grass look greener elsewhere. Human resources (HR) has a very important role in finding, training and retaining talent: Attract and retain the best talent Plan and match skill levels to project pipeline and requirements to recruit and onboard the right people. Operate on a strategic level Use integrated perspective of HR, finance and projects to extend influence beyond human resources functions. Respond with agility Make changes to the model and execute new organisational structures, processes and reporting without coding. Nurture and develop employees Ensure comprehensive support for all aspects of your hire-to-retire cycle and payroll processes. But seeking and securing the best in the current "talent war" is getting increasingly difficult unless HR is at the forefront of automated human resources solutions. And being able to manage talent to keep them both productive and dedicated is the key to a successful organisation. iTWire spoke to Chris Tithof, Unit4s channel director Australia and New Zealand. Unit4 is a global leader in enterprise applications that empower people to do their jobs better. It has a suite of HR applications for staff engagement, automated HR processes, people planning and managing change. You talk about minutiae and details bogging down an organisation. The risk is that if the administrative burden is being felt, and the problem is not handled correctly, chances are talented employees that the organisation has worked hard to win, will begin to feel taken for granted or worse still forgotten. In this case, the enterprise stands to lose valuable resources people they have trained, then disenfranchised to their competitors. Surely removing the administrative burden solution is not just HRs bailiwick? HR is about being people-centric, not client-centric as the rest of the organisation is. It is up to them to take a leading role to build the organisation of tomorrow. Naturally, organisations tend to focus on what makes sales! As HR grows and expands, it has an influence across the organisational structure, it tends to follow a predictable maturity model. In the early stages, HR leaders begin to drive "purpose and productivity for all staff. This eventually leads to the drive to empower employees with self-driving technology that puts HRs contributions at more of a strategic level. Organisations that want to be ahead of the curve need to automate processes within performance and talent management as much as possible. How does HR achieve this? Moving HR from an administrative function to where HR needs to be in todays talent-first market is not easy. HR should be an advisory office with strategic impact on securing empowerment and engagement of current and prospective employees. There are common warning signs when an organisations HR function has to get more proactive and automated. When they struggle to: React quickly enough to changes in the market; Drive organisational change to capture new lines of business; Grow the emotional commitment of your best employees; Communicate common goals and a sense of urgency to all employees; and Unify your global workforce, helping employees collaborate across distance and generations. Predicting what is coming next while driving strategic and organisational change to seek, gain and nurture top-tier talent is far more achievable with the full power of the automated self-service HR model behind the organisation. What do employees want? The first business goal should be to set a clear career path structure and easily accessible information on job requirements. This helps employees stay engaged because they see not only a future for themselves within the enterprise but also the steps they need to take to get there. Employees succeed when they feel trusted enough to act autonomously and part of a winning team. Therefore, new platforms for social collaboration get them motivated and facilitate targeted communications on business priorities. HR finds the best aspect of self-service platforms and portals is that it breaks the dependency on IT. No more waiting to fit into IT's busy schedule or delay their time critical projects. Essential time can be saved if essential functions can be handled via say, a drag and drop interface. Suddenly workflows, access levels, and hierarchic relations among many other details are be corrected automatically whenever the employee is granted a corresponding change in organisational responsibilities. Business looks to automation to reduce costs and be more efficient. Does investing in an automated HR platform makes sense? As business logic has developed, so should HR platforms move beyond the legacy systems in place. The next generation of self-service HR software is designed for accessibility everywhere and should be intuitive for everyday users. By utilising tailored, cloud-based deployments, organisations can keep ahead of the sudden shifts in the marketplace. Including cutting off competitors who offer seductive employee packages and the promise of rapid advancement. Deploying a self-service HR model allows them to win and retain top-tier talent. Being able to see further down the road, allows for better strategic decision to be made. Thats what self-service automation of HR functions can accomplish, they increase the visibility of the enterprise's actual costs, as well as what individual employees need at a certain moment. Moving swiftly before windows of opportunity slam shut ensure organisations become the kind of employer that talent will seek out. This level of organisational change doesn't have to be painful, but it does require a sustained commitment to developing your HR department along the common maturity model. AMD dont make cards that it the province of its OEM (original equipment manufacturer) partners like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, HIS, PowerColor, Sapphire, VisionTek, and xfx. In reality, the standards for things like memory, power, and bios are all standard across all makers it is all in the marketing and fine tweaks that make one better over another. The Radeon RX480 GPU is the latest technology engineered to deliver the best performance for money in its class, democratise VR, and deliver a wide range of future-proof technologies supporting existing and future game and video standards. The cards start at $329 for the Radeon RX480 4GB and $399 for the Radeon RX480 8GB. Details of the new card and related technologies are at AMDs new gamer-focused website, Radeon.com. Raja Koduri, senior vice-president, and chief architect, Radeon Technologies Group, AMD, said, We designed this technology by listening intently to gamers who have bought and played on our graphics technology for years. Weve worked tirelessly to produce something that satisfies the most discerning gamer and delivers the ideal product at an impeccable price. We couldnt be more grateful for the reception weve received from gamers, customers, and technology partners who see what our engineering team has accomplished and agree that with the Radeon RX Series, gaming and VR is truly #BetterRed. OEM and system integrator partners such as Alienware, HP, and Lenovo are praising the capabilities of the Radeon RX480. Game and VR application developers, including Bethesda, EA, and Ubisoft, and VR headset manufacturers Oculus and HTC have applauded AMD for delivering on the promise of bringing flagship performance and features to the mass market, enabling them to expand greatly the reach of experiences theyre developing. Radeon RX480 features Amazon is slashing the price off of two new Android smartphones, as long as youre willing to put up with some advertisements on your lock screen. The retail behemoth announced on dnesday that the new Moto G4 Blu R1 HD could be had for $50 off their going price, in exchange for lock screen ads like the company puts on its Kindles. The discount means the Blu R1 HD will cost you $50, which is half off the original price. The Moto G4 can be had for $150, also $50 less. Both phones are unlocked for use on any carrier, though youll also get preloaded Amazon apps a home screen widget that displays Amazons daily deals. Its unclear if youll be able to delete the preinstalled apps, though dont count on it since you usually cant when carriers pack in such extras. though given that these phones are only available for ime members, youll probably put those Amazon apps to good use with lots of impulse buys. The Blu R1 HD offers a 5-inch, curved Gorilla Glass display, a 1.3 GHz quad-core processor, E, an 8Mcamera. The storage is tight, with 8GB or 16GB options, each paired up with either 1GB or 2GB of RAM. The fourth-generation Moto G has a 5.5-inch HD display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 617 chipset with an octa-core, 1.5GHz processor, 2GB of RAM, E connectivity, a 13Mcamera with dual D flash, a 3,000 mAh battery with fast charging capabilities, 16 or 32GB storage configurations with microSD support for an additional 128GB of space. The story behind the story: Amazons new strategy in smartphones appears to be partnering up with other hset makers to get its apps, services, advertisements baked right into the phone. The price cuts in exchange for ads is an arrangement that has worked well with the Kindle, so itll be interesting to see if buyers are willing to make the same deal for a cheaper smartphone. These two phones may be just the first of many. Get unlimited access to all content and features at ivpressonline.com with our Full Online Access Subscription. Read our E-Edition, the digital replica of the print newspaper online, access content in exclusive sections including Family, Teen, Business, Databases, Farm and more. This option does not include daily home delivery of the Imperial Valley Press newspaper. For home delivery service, please select Premium or Premium Plus. The Conservatives are on course to regain control of Barnet Council in the 2002 elections, according to their new Assembly member. Fresh from his success on Thursday, Councillor Brian Coleman predicted future Tory gains in the polls. Town sued over denied water service The town council met in executive session last week to discuss its defense after a lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court by a Jamestown homeowner who was denied permission... Scout earns Eagle rank with boardwalk work A local Boy Scout is the latest member of Troop 1 Jamestown to lead an environmental project at a wildlife sanctuary in his mission to attain the Eagle rank. Alex... State: Steer clear while deer breeding As deer begin mating during the rut, public safety officials are urging drivers to be cautious on the roads because herds tend to move around more frequently during this time.... WASHINGTON There is plenty of evidence that the Obama administration less than two months before the November 2012 election tried to come up with a less damning explanation for the attack in Benghazi, Libya, that killed four Americans. Ben Rhodes was the author of a memo that sought immediately to elevate the anti-Muslim video as the official narrative. The president stuck to that cover story up through his Sept. 25 speech at the United Nations, long after we understood this was a planned attack, the outgrowth of the chaos festering in the wake of the overthrow of Moammar Gadhafi. Republicans investigating the Benghazi attack soon got lost in the weeds of the debacle, although their basic understanding was correct: It was far better for the White House politically to attribute all this to a fluke, a video, than to acknowledge that its Libya policy was a disaster, and moreover, that Islamic jihadism was spreading, not retreating. The Benghazi Select Committee report, as The Washington Posts Josh Rogin points out, reveals little in the way of new information other than that then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was planning a trip to Benghazi: Republicans see the revelation that Clinton was planning a trip to Libya and that Ambassador Christopher Stevens wanted to make the Benghazi mission permanent as evidence that she was trying to cement her legacy as a major proponent of the intervention to topple Moammar Gadhafi, but ignored several signs that the facility was unsafe. Well, yes, but Republicans already made the point that Clinton wanted Libya to be part of her legacy. So? The newest revelation actually suggests Clinton was unaware of how serious the security situation was. (Otherwise, why go?) The president had no interest in dedicating forces and preparing an after-victory plan in Libya, where he never wanted to act. This was the exact error Democrats accused Republicans of making in Iraq. Clinton was at best a negligent manager, too removed from the situation in Libya and lacking a system to elevate critical issues. Her insistence on isolating herself within a close-knit cadre of advisers has its dangers, and this is a perfect illustration of the risk this management style entails. The entire administration was willfully indifferent to evidence contradicting their boast about putting al-Qaida on its heels. Islamist terrorism was spreading, and the lead-from-behind notion that we could retreat and retrench without endangering our security was wrong. In the primary, Republicans including Sens. Rand Paul, R-Ky., and Ted Cruz, R-Texas, as well as Donald Trump, preaching to the neo-isolationist corner, got the argument wrong again. They rewwrote the history of the Libyan civil war, leaving out the critical facts that the country was already in revolt, mass killings were underway and if Gadhafi remained, there would be no end to it, leaving the country a terrorist playground. The mistake was not our minimal effort to speed up Gadhafis ouster by his own people, but in our negligence after he was gone. Paul, Cruz and Trump were essentially playing the same lead-from-behind game as Obama. We shouldnt have gone in. Everything was fine before we got involved. Things go wrong when the U.S. acts. This once again had the effect of letting Obama and Clinton off the hook for the real mistake: Lack of follow-through and unwillingness to recognize the metastasizing Islamic threat was going to require more, not less, of an American presence. Perhaps this was all too complicated for Republicans to explain. None of this fits nicely the requirements of a made-for-talk-radio scandal. It does not put Clinton in the role of deliberately denying support for her personnel. But it is the truth, and Republicans should have stuck closer to it, making the big-picture case about the failure of the Obama administration to deal with a growing Islamic threat that manifested itself at a politically inconvenient time. The Heavy Rebel Weekender is old enough to drive. The annual festival of music and classic cars celebrates its 16th anniversary this year, running Friday through Sunday at the Millennium Center. Its strange to ponder. Its a party thats been going on 16 years now, said Dave Quick, one of the founders of the festival. Weve seen people get gray and other people get born and grow up. The festival can drive itself to its own car show this year, he added with a laugh. Its pretty amazing, my little teenage baby, said Courtney Southern, who has worked with the festival since its second year and has been Quicks official partner in running the show for four years. Its the same age as my daughter, which is funny, she said. Weve kind of figured out who we are, and we are really lucky to keep doing it without changing who we are, and were lucky that people still appreciate it. About 60 bands are scheduled to perform on three stages inside the center, with returning favorites this year including Sarah Shook & The Disarmers, Creep-a-zoids, American Speedway, Dexter Romweber, the bo-stevens, The Straight 8s, The Tremors, The Brimstones, The Buzzards and many more. One of the new acts this year is Clownvis Presley, a comedian and musician who dresses like, as you might guess, a clown version of the King of Rock n Roll, Elvis Presley. Clownvis is just funny as hell, man, Quick said. Theres nothing else like him. Another new act is Clambake Spinout, a Chapel Hill band that performs Elvis songs and got its start last January at Quicks other annual festival, ElvisFest. Quick estimated that about 40 percent of the bands at this years festival are new to Heavy Rebel. Some of it, it just happens, he said. You might expect a band everybody liked to come back but they break up, and that creates an opportunity for some other band. We try to keep it balanced so its not leaning in any one direction. You might see a lot of tattoos and greasy hair, but only about 20 percent of it is rockabilly. Weve also got honky-tonk, garage, country, and straight-up rock and roll, and then theres stuff you cant classify, specialty stuff youre not going to see anywhere else. No hip-hop, no jazz, and no bro country, he said. That stuff can play anywhere. Theres a whole world for them and not so much for the bands we have. In addition to the music, returning acts this year include sideshow performer extraordinaire Adam the First Real Man, Sunday on the main stage, and the Wiggle Room with burlesque performers will be open Friday and Saturday. There will also be burlesque workshops for a small fee, with performers training in the art of burlesque on Saturday afternoon. Returning contests include Saturdays wet wifebeater shirt competition and on Sunday, Pabst Blue Ribbon beer drinking and Krispy Kreme eating competitions and the energetic upright bass slapdown. Admission is $40 each day or $100 for a three-day pass at the door. A pre-party gathering will be held tonight at the Millennium Center with music by Transylvania Transport Co., Jesse Ray Carter and Truckstop Preachers. Doors open at 8, and that event is $5. Saturdays car show is one of the biggest parts of the Weekender. Last year, they had more than 500 classic cars and motorcycles on Trade and Liberty streets and hope for more this year. The cars will be on display from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the car show is free and open to the public. Starting at noon Saturday, Big Wheel races will be held behind the Millennium Center, and the center will be open to the public for vendor shopping indoors, with a wide variety of merchandise, including art, new and vintage clothing, and memorabilia. Car and bike show trophies will be handed out behind the Millennium Center at 2 p.m., followed by the annual mud wrestling event. There are a lot of folks who just really love the classic cars, Southern said. We get a lot of people from local body shops, and car clubs from Virginia, Tennessee and other parts of North Carolina that come as a group. There are a lot of families, and a lot of grandparents bringing their grandkids down to Trade Street.... Its always great to see. The car show helps to bring out people who enjoy that classic- or custom-car lifestyle but maybe havent experienced the full onslaught of music and festivities we have going on inside. Quick has been organizing the festival since the beginning, first with co-founder Mike Martin and in recent years with Southern. As far as preparations, so far this has been the smoothest one, Quick said. Ive learned to quit worrying so much about what might be going wrong in a room where Im not standing. That sort of thing is hard to fight when youre running the show.... Ive learned most people really want to have a good time and be cool about it. The fact that there are people are coming this year who have Heavy Rebel tattoos on their bodies, thats cool. For a complete schedule of the bands and other details, go to www.heavyrebel.net. Other festivities taking place this weekend in honor of July 4 include: The Winston-Salem Dash will hold an Independence Day Extravaganza starting at 4 p.m. Saturday on First Street between Peters Creek Parkway and Green Street, with music, food trucks and inflatables for the kids. That will lead into the Dashs 7 p.m. game against the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, with gates opening at 5:45 p.m. and an extended fireworks display after the game as well as a special Kids Run the Bases event. The First Street festivities before the game are open to the public. Ticket information for the game can be found at www.wsdash.com or by calling (336) 714-2287. Old Salem Museums & Gardens will have family-friendly events from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday; 1 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday; and 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday throughout the historic district. For more information, go to www.oldsalem.org/events/event/independence-day-celebration/ A Patriotic Pops concert will be held at Triad Park at 6 p.m. Sunday, with the Judy Barnes Band joining the Piedmont Wind Symphony to play patriotic and film music, as part of the Summer Park Series. For more information, go to www.intothearts.org. GREENSBORO The U.S. Postal Service is under siege, speakers said Wednesday at a hearing on ways to preserve the public agency. The hearing, the last of five nationwide, featured presentations by U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, a Charlotte Democrat with longtime times to Greensboro; Andrew Brod, a senior research fellow in UNC-Greensboros Center for Business and Economic Research; Michael Young, with United for a Fair Economy, and others. Issues facing the financially beleagured institution include the need for new and expanded postal services, a call for better services for seniors, a suggestion to return banking services to post offices, elimination of six-day delivery and the possibility of privatization. I havent seen a whole lot of good coming out of privatization in so many areas weve tried to privatize, Adams told about 40 people in the auditorium of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. It takes control from the taxpayer. Privatization increases the potential for job cuts and low wages, she said. Adams said that since she was a child the post office was a place that offered high-paying, stable jobs to blacks. In those days, working for the post office was the bomb! she told listeners. Lots of other African Americans saw the institution as their chance to move into the middle class, said Greensboro City Councilwoman Sharon Hightower, who participated in panel discussions with the speakers. She shared her concerns about privatization with speaker Philip Rubio, an N.C. A&T associate professor of history. Is it intended to dismantle African American wealth? she asked him. Ultimately, thats our wealth. The intended consequence is to remove good-paying jobs and replace them with part-time jobs, he replied. About 21 percent of post office jobs have already been reduced to being part-time, Rubio said. The service has closed about 3,700 offices and cut hours. Just when we get to the point of having good-paying jobs, there are forces that want to remove them, he said. But, Rubio added, he does not see privatization as a direct attack on African American jobs. Still, the Postal Service has been a gateway for minorities and veterans to get decent jobs, according to Jamie Horwitz, an organizer for A Grand Alliance to Save Our Public Postal Service. The alliance, made up of more than 130 groups taking a stand against assaults on the service, organized the events. Along with Greensboro, events have been held in New York, California, Maryland and Ohio. In Cleveland, a major concern was the citys vast banking deserts, Horwitz said. About 40 percent of residents dont have access to banks, he said. They depend on payday loans. Those services can be predatory, speakers said. The Postal Service can provide simple financial services, according to Brod. Post offices can provide debit cards, service accounts and check cashing services, he said. Postal banking, he said, could fill that gap. OnRamp OnRamp offers conversation and connections among the entrepreneurs who are shaping Wisconsin's economy, and brings corporations and start-ups together at statewide events. To contribute to this blog, contact Joe Kirgues at joe@gener8tor.com or Matt Cordio at matt@skillspipeline.com or Scott Resnick at resnick@hardindd.com. SHARE By , Afternoon Break - a Walk around the City with Khalif and Lawrence This past week the Young Enterprising Society kicked off its summer program for middle-school and high school students from the Transform Milwaukee Neighborhoods as part of a project funded by WHEDA; its summer program also has 23 girls from St. Joan Atidas incoming class. The program has three primary topics: (i) design thinking; (ii) lean startups; and (iii) technology. We are asking the students to form teams and develop a solution for a real world problem. In week one, we pushed the students to think beyond themselves and develop something that could have a big impact on a real world problem. Our goal is to foster creativity and have the students truly understand that there are no boundaries around their inventive capacity. Some of the initial ideas included addressing the impact of climate change on agriculture, bionic eyes, and fish robots to help study oceanic fisheries. To help the students understand how they can use technology to solve problems, we have different science projects ranging from soldering circuit boards to mechanical engineering, along with discussions on specific technology topics. In one example, Julia Schmidt, a summer intern at the Milwaukee Institute, explains one of the summer projects, which is to build a raspberry pi tiny-titan supercomputer. She will also work with the students to deploy Googles tensor flow, along with the recently open-sourced natural language processing library - SnytaxNet - on the tiny-titan. In addition to providing guidance around design thinking, lean startups, and technology, we have created a digital makerspace to allow the students to explore, create, and invent. Our space has 3d printers, arduino boards, raspberry Pis, and a multitude of various electronic parts. I have also taken several of my old computers and installed linux mint (Sarah) on them. The students really enjoyed learning how to use the terminal for python. Each student has been given a journal to document their thoughts, what they have learned, and to answer the question - what do I want to learn next? We hope to instill a love for lifelong learning and an understanding that a lot of what you learn is self-taught or learned from your fellow team members. On this last thought, we will not provide answers to their questions, but teach them how to ask the right questions, to not be afraid to ask questions, and search for the answers. A while back at an event at the Commons, I had a wonderful conversation with Sister Joel (a legend in education). She said that we have turned the education system upside down and made it about providing the right answers. Instead, we should be teaching people how to ask the right questions. I couldnt agree more - asking a lot of great questions is the foundation of creativity and entrepreneurship. Here are all the charges Darrell Brooks is convicted of in parade trial Demond Means, the superintendent of the Mequon-Thiensville school district, is seen at his alma mater, Riverside University High School on East Locust St. in Milwaukee. Credit: Mike De Sisti By of the Demond Means cares about Milwaukee Public Schools. He touts the fact that he's a proud MPS graduate. He knows the impact that poverty has on the students in Milwaukee and he is familiar with the numerous reports that list Milwaukee and Wisconsin as the worst places to live for African-American children. So when Means the superintendent of schools for the Mequon-Thiensville School District received a call from Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele to be the commissioner for the new Opportunity Schools and Partnership Program for failing MPS schools, he jumped at the opportunity. On Wednesday, Means resigned from the position. Im disappointed in Means' decision, but I understand it. He was facing a lot of opposition from MPS, teachers and some parents. There were rallies, marches and forums fighting against any changes. When Means and Abele presented a plan to the district to start to fix failing schools, the district countered with a plan of its own. It makes you wonder why MPS didn't have a plan earlier. Means said when he volunteered to help lead a state-mandated school turnaround district, that he would not impose anything on the district. It is now clear to me that as implementation of the law moves forward, the environment is not conducive to collaborative partnerships something essential for positive things to happen in Milwaukee, he said. The plan Means and Abele proposed would have allowed Means to operate a failing school under a contract with MPS, leaving MPS with its per-pupil funding and teachers in their jobs. MPS rejected the proposal, calling it vague. MPS proposed an alternative plan that would have allowed the OSPP commissioner to operate an early childhood program in the former 35th Street School, but that plan was not acceptable to Abele and Means because they would have no start-up funds. Means' concern is that the people suffering the most are the children who continue to struggle in failing schools. Weve been through this before. When I started with the Journal Sentinel Editorial Board in 2008, I looked at the number of young black boys failing in the district and I wanted to do something about it. Black boys were being suspended at one of the highest rates in the nation and the educational gap between blacks and whites was continuing to widen. It seemed as though there was a real lack of urgency to try something different. On top of that, reading scores for fourth grade black boys was the worst in the nation. After talking with Gov. Jim Doyle and Mayor Tom Barrett, they agreed that something needed to change. They proposed to have the mayor take over MPS - and they failed miserably. I still remember how some people tried to make the takeover a race issue. My response is and always has been that its wrong on all of our parts to sit back and allow our black and brown children to fail. Means was in the best position to help turn around failing MPS schools. With Means out of the picture, I worry that the state will come in, and I worry that it won't have our childrens best interest in mind. MPS needs to collaborate with other entities because the current formula is not working and hasnt been for a long time. The focus should be preventive and not just reactionary. When a takeover was threatened, it appears that MPS was reactionary. Before Gov. Scott Walker cut public school funding he asked all school districts to submit a plan of needs, etc. MPS didnt. Then, after funding was cut, the district was reactionary. Present day, MPS doesnt like whats on the table and again the response is reactionary. Will the MPS plan work? Time will tell. One thing I think we can all agree on is that MPS needs help and cant do it alone. However, it needs to be open to that help. Norrie Daroga, iDAvatars CEO, led a global team that developed its app. To learn more about the app, go to jsonline.com/multimedia. Credit: Mike De Sisti SHARE By of the IDAvatars, a Mequon start-up that develops health care apps featuring an avatar, or animated character, has merged with CodeBaby, a company based in Colorado Springs, Colo., that develops so-called virtual assistants. The two companies, which combined will employ about 35 people and 10 contractors, have complementary technologies, said Norrie Daroga, the founder and chief executive officer of iDAvatars. CodeBaby, which also has an office in Edmonton, Canada, has focused on developing products for websites, while iDAvatars has focused on developing mobile applications. Using CodeBaby's technology, a character would pop up on a website and help a customer, for instance, find the right health plan, offering suggestions based on what is known as a decision tree, said Dennis McGuire, chief executive of CodeBaby, who will be the chief strategy officer of the merged company. The character also can field questions, such as how close is the nearest primary care doctor in a health plan's network. IDAvatars develops applications featuring an avatar, named Sophie, that understands language and, to a limited extent, can detect mood or emotion. The technology also can remember specific characteristics about the person. Both companies draw on the advances in natural language processing and artificial intelligence. They also are among the companies that are using the technology, called "cognitive computing," underlying IBM's Watson. The computer system commonly known for its appearance on the quiz show "Jeopardy!" can discern meaning from syntax and can learn patterns and trends. CodeBaby's customers include CareFirst, a health insurance company, MetLife and Anthem Inc. Connecture Inc., a Brookfield software company that designs online marketplaces for health plans, is among CodeBaby's customers, McGuire said. "It's a huge market because our lives have moved more online," he said. IDAvatars' customers include the Department of Veterans Affairs, Intel and Bayer AG. CodeBaby has revenue of a bit more than $2 million a year, Daroga said, and iDAdvatars has revenue of $1.5 million. "We will phase out the CodeBaby name very shortly and operate as IDA, short for Intelligent Digital Avatars. Sort of like the IBM approach," he said. Both of the companies will remain in their current offices. The combined company could hire additional employees in Milwaukee as a result of the transaction, Daroga said. He expects the combined company to be close to breaking even this year. IDAvatars, founded in 2013, has raised $4 million from investors, Daroga said. The combined company plans to raise an additional $2 million, with roughly $1.5 million coming from existing shareholders. Daroga, an engineer, lawyer and former chief administrative officer of Metavante Corp., put together a team of about 20 people from throughout the world including people in Pune, India; Lisbon, Portugal; and Istanbul, Turkey to develop iDAvatars' technology. The merged company will have two directors from each company and a fifth director, Dennis Casey, a former executive with Anthem who oversaw the insurer's health plans in 13 states. Casey said he was intrigued by iDAvatars' technology. "I felt the tool was far more engaging than a lot of tools being used now," he said. The application could appeal to health plans as well as health systems. "There is a broad range of potential customers here," Casey said. The combined companies should be able to improve the technology and introduce new services and applications more quickly than they could alone, said McGuire, CodeBaby's former chief executive. The technology could be widespread in five to 10 years, he said. But the challenge now is getting the market to adopt it and long sales cycles. "That's the phase we are in," McGuire said. SHARE By An appeals court reversed approval of an antitrust settlement Visa and MasterCard had reached with millions of retailers Thursday for being "unreasonable and inadequate." The judges ruled that plaintiffs in the $7.25 billion class-action settlement, reached in 2012, were "inadequately represented." The case in question was originally brought over high swipe fees retailers pay to the card networks in order to accept Visa- and MasterCard-branded cards from customers, as well as rules that prevented retailers from steering customers toward lower-cost payment options. Visa spokeswoman Connie Kim said the company is reviewing the decision. MasterCard did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The settlement divided plaintiffs into two classes, one of which stood to share up to $7.25billion in monetary relief; the other would get injunctive relief in the form of Visa and MasterCard changing their network rules. The judges called the agreement unfair because one class could choose to opt out of the settlement while those receiving injunctive relief couldn't and had to give up rights to challenge Visa and MasterCard on certain issues in the future. One of the judges wrote that the settlement "binds not only members of the Plaintiff class who receive compensation as part of the deal, but also binds in perpetuity, without opportunity to reject the settlement, all merchants who in the future will accept Visa and MasterCard." Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Target both praised the court's decision. "The settlement imposed a sweeping release of merchant rights in favor of the credit card networks," said Walmart spokesman Randy Hargrove. "It would have also stifled innovation around new payments technologies and left consumers facing continually increasing hidden swipe fees, which already cost them tens of billions of dollars each year." "The Court correctly found that the settlement would have adversely impacted millions of retailers while failing to reform the payment industry's anticompetitive practices," said Target spokeswoman Molly Snyder. An image from Blyth Renate Meier's "Good Morning, Milwaukee" project. Credit: Courtesy of Blyth Renate Meier For more than four years, Blyth Renate Meier has photographed Milwaukee's urban landscape almost every day, sharing them via social media. For the month of July, she will share her "Good Morning, Milwaukee" photographs with Art City followers via Twitter and Instagram. The more than 850 photographs in this diaristic project have documented Meier's daily commute to work and something of her artistic point of view and desires, too. As the director of marketing for Milwaukee Film, Meier wanted to generate more year-round interest for her organization. The annual festival had received feedback that some potential attendees were nervous about coming downtown. So Meier conceived of a simple daily greeting via social media that included a black and white photograph to showcase the beauty of the city. In those days, she took the photographs on her way to work, somewhere between Riverwest and Wisconsin Ave. Beautifully framed in a perfect square, her black and white photographs might include a doorway, an arch at City Hall, a bit of one of Milwaukee's angled bridges or the textured juxtapositions of old and new. Often there is a bit of sky that, even in black and white, expresses something about the dynamic of weather and changing seasons in Wisconsin. She points her camera up a lot, too, hopefully. When Meier left Milwaukee Film, the audience for the project became much smaller and more personal, mostly close friends on Instagram. Setting aside the festival's promotional concerns allowed her to think more deeply and artistically about the way the city is changing and what's being lost. She spent an entire week earlier this year documenting the demolition of the Burnham Building in Walker's Point. She couldn't help but mourn the crumbling beauty. Indeed she is documenting a place and time over time. When she looks at the archive now, many of the buildings she sees there are long gone. Meier will not only share this private, artistic space with Art City followers, she will put it up on a gallery wall for the first time in September, when the Portrait Society Gallery exhibits a selection of photographs. Meier is looking forward to seeing them in real space, outside of the screen on her phone. Meier, who was born in Milwaukee but raised on the high plains of North Dakota, has lived in Milwaukee for about 20 years. She earned master's degrees in art and film at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She is also the co-host of a radio show about film, "The Tiny Film Invasion" on WMSE (FM 91.7) on Thursdays at noon. Mary Louise Schumacher: Tell me about a failed piece you once made and what you learned from it. Blyth Renate Meier: I make failed photographs each and every week. It's part of the territory, especially when the project has gone on for so many years and by necessity happens very quickly each day. I learn small things each time how to better frame a building or which color fields don't translate well into black and white. Mostly I learn how to be better at trusting my first instinct for which shot is the shot for the day. It's my moment of Zen. MLS: What's your favorite breakfast food? BRM: Lately, I've been living on various coconut milk smoothies. When I'm home, it's my Mom's oatmeal. When I'm celebrating, it's my homemade scones. They are objectively fantastic. MLS: Who's your guilty pleasure artist why do you feel you shouldn't like them and why do you anyway? BRM: I really can't think of one. I think looking at all art is worthwhile. Now guilty pleasure television, we could talk there. "Top Chef" hands down. MLS: What images keep you company in your work space? BRM: A picture of Patti Smith with her camera. MLS: If you could live with one work of art, what would it be? BRM: The first thing that came to mind was Andrew Wyeth's "Christina's World." My mom had a print of it on the wall the whole time I was growing up, and the landscape and longing really speak to me. MLS: What is art for? BRM: To crack us wide open and to put us back together again. MLS: What's your favorite title of an artwork? BRM: I actually have a real aversion to overly specific titles for artworks I want my reaction to be based in the work, and not the title. Then again "Untitled IX" is also not helpful. I have no good answers for this one. MLS: What do you wish you knew? BRM: Who our next president will be. MLS:What do you like the look of? BRM: The North Dakota summer sky. This time of year, it stays light until past 10 p.m., and the color is magnificent. My dog's ears. My husband's face. Actually, the faces of everyone I love. And also many of those I don't. MLS: What was your first real art experience? BRM: When I was very little, I asked my dad how to draw some sort of animal. My dad is most emphatically not a drawer, but somehow he managed in that pre-internet day to teach me how to block out parts of a body and smooth the lines into limbs. MLS: What film has most influenced you? BRM: Two films: Wong Kar Wai's "In the Mood for Love" and Claire Denis' "35 Shots of Rum." They both feature incredible soundtracks, genius cinematographers, a stable group of riveting actors, and plot lines that tell you just enough but not too much. Perfection. MLS: What are you reading? BRM: John Le Carre's "The Tailor of Panama" is my summer read. Also there is always huge stack of cookbooks within arms reach. Right now, that includes "Thug Kitchen," Mark Bittman's "VB6," and "The Kitchen Shelf." MLS: What music are you listening to? BRM: "Hamilton." Beyonce. Beyonce. "Hamilton." David Bowie. MLS: What should change? BRM: We should have more compassion with each other. Always. Life is really hard and people are mostly doing the best they can. MLS: What should stay the same? BRM: Progress. MLS: What could you imagine doing if you didn't do what you do? BRM: I did a lot of stage acting in high school, and I wish I hadn't let that fade away. MLS: If you could change one thing about Milwaukee's creative community, what would it be? BRM: Hire more women to lead arts institutions and funding entities. MLS: Tell us about one of your favorite Milwaukee moments? BRM: My husband and our neighbors ride in the Riverwest24, which is full of magical moments in our neighborhood each year. Early on, the Pedal Pusher Society hosted the bonus stop on the viaduct under Holton Street, and it was decorated all in pink and there was music playing all night. The first lap through, we all got off our bikes and danced around in our helmets. I remember thinking Milwaukee is incredible. Fabrizia Lanza will cook at the Public Market on July 13. SHARE Guests will enjoy dinner with a view Sunday night as they watch the U.S. Bank Fireworks from the Milwaukee Art Museums terraces while eating a pork dinner from Waukeshas Maple Leaf Farms and sipping on Pinot Noir. Journal Sentinel files Chicago pastry chef Gale Gand will prepare a dinner July 17. Stephen Hamilton By , Noted chefs and cookbook authors, pork with Pinot and fireworks, and an outdoor dinner party are the events coming up, plus some farm dinners. Gale Gand at Pasta Tree Not just sweets: Chicago pastry chef and former Food Network host Gale Gand will prepare a five-course dinner with longtime friend and Pasta Tree chef-owner Suzzette Metcalfe at the east side restaurant on July 17. The event's theme is "Lunch for dinner." Dishes will come from two of Gand's cookbooks, "Lunch!" and "Brunch!," and the dinner will include some Pasta Tree favorites, as well. Gand, who was the host of "Sweet Dreams" on the Food Network for eight years and is a partner in Chicago's Tru restaurant, will be available to sign copies of her cookbooks and will share stories from her career. The dinner is $85, which includes a cocktail or wine pairing with each course. The event starts at 5 p.m. To reserve seats, call the restaurant at (414) 276-8867 or email thepastatree@gmail.com. The Pasta Tree is at 1503 N. Farwell Ave. And on Aug. 2, the Pasta Tree will have a summer harvest dinner with produce grown for it from Golden Rod Urban Farm on the city's west side. The grower will be in attendance to talk about urban farming. Five courses paired with beer and wine will be $85; contact the restaurant for reservations. Lanza at Public Market Fabrizia Lanza, a cookbook author continuing her mother's famed cooking school in Sicily, will be at the Milwaukee Public Market on July 13 for a cooking class and a dinner served with her family's wines. Milwaukee is one of six stops on Lanza's visit to the United States, to promote her documentary "Amuri: The Sacred Flavors of Sicily." Lanza also will appear in Seattle, Portland, Ore., Los Angeles, Oakland,Calif., and San Francisco. The first event is a cooking demonstration at 11:30 a.m. at the market. Lanza will show how to prepare eggplant rolls, cavatelli with ricotta, chickpea fritters and biancomangiare, or almond pudding, while she discusses Sicily, the Case Vecchie Cooking School (also known as the Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School), the Tasca d'Almerita winery and the history of the family's 19th-century estate. The cooking class is $29. A Sicilian dinner of recipes from Lanza's "Coming Home to Sicily" book will be at 6:30 p.m. Six courses will be served, including swordfish stuffed with mint and garlic, ricotta gnocchi with tomato sauce, lamb ribs and chops and taralli, lemon knot cookies. Tasca d'Almarita wines to be poured include Regaleali Bianco, Regaleali Rosso Nero d'Avola and Grillo Cavallo delle Fate. The dinner is $65. The documentary will be shown at the dinner. Reserve seats for the class or dinner online at milwaukeepublicmarket.org or by calling (414) 336-1111. The market is at 400 N. Water St. Pinot. Pork. Patio. Chef Jason Gorman of Cafe Calatrava at the Milwaukee Art Museum and several guest chefs will cook up pork from Waukesha's Maple Creek Farms and pair it with Pinot Noir on the museum patios Sunday. That, of course, is the night of the U.S. Bank Fireworks nearby; the dinner also gives guests a front-row seat to the show at the lakefront. Diners can choose from two patios and two experiences: Chefs Jan Kelly of Meritage, Aaron Patin of Iron Grate BBQ Co. and Nick Burki of Coquette Cafe along with Gorman each will serve a composed pork dish at stations on the Baumgartner Terrace. On Cafe Calatrava Terrace, guests will find a barbecue pork holiday buffet. Both patios will have live music. Parking and four tickets for wine are included in the price of the dinner, which is $95 on the Baumgartner Terrace and $55 on the Cafe Calatrava Terrace ($15 for children 7 to 12). The dinner and party kick off at 6 p.m.; buy tickets for the event at eventbrite.com. Editor's note: An earlier version of this item had the incorrect name for Maple Creek Farms. Pig roast at orchard A fundraiser for the Farm Fresh Atlas of Southeastern Wisconsin will bring together chefs from La Merenda, Engine Company No. 3 and Braise, as well as students from MATC's culinary program, for a pig roast July 16 at a Burlington orchard. Pork will be roasted underground and above ground for this dinner, which will include other dishes made from local ingredients. Music, games and hayrides around Brightonwoods Orchard, 1072 288th Ave, start at 1 p.m. The meal will be served at 3 p.m. Tickets for the pig roast are $75, which includes two drinks. Admission for children 5 to 12 years old is $35, or $15 for children younger than 5. To order tickets, go to farmfreshsewi.org. The organization compiles information about farmers markets in southeast Wisconsin and publishes a free annual listing. Dish in West Bend An outdoor dinner party by Cafe Soeurette in West Bend on July 31 will serve up to 100 diners on the street downtown, where guests can shop a mini farmers market and listen to live music. The event will be set up on Main St., outside the restaurant at 111 N. Main. Cocktail hour starts at 4 p.m.; wine and beer will be available at a cash bar. Seating for the three-course dinner will be at 5 p.m. The event is $55 a person, and 10% of profits will be donated to the Downtown West Bend Association and West Bend Farmers Market. Reservations are required; make them with a credit card by calling the restaurant at (262) 338-2233. Next month, Cafe Soeurette will have its annual dinner on the farm at Kirschbaum Family Farm, 3931 Ridge Road, Kewaskum. The event, on Aug. 27, starts at 4:30 p.m. It's $60. Reservations can be held with a credit card by calling Cafe Soeurette. SHARE By of the Police are asking help identifying a man who pointed a gun at another man at an ATM in downtown Milwaukee this week. A man was at an ATM at 422 E. Mason St. just before 1 a.m. Tuesday when another man who was wearing a white fedora approached him, pointed a gun and then ran from the area, according to police. The man with the gun could face possible charges of endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon. Anyone with information is asked to call Milwaukee Police District One at (414) 935-7211. Authorities are investigating a melee in Sherman Park on Wednesday night when a group of young people threw rocks and bottles, damaging windows of a gas station and a county transit bus nearby. Credit: Sam Caravana By Law enforcement officials are investigating whether a disturbance in Sherman Park on Wednesday night in which several dozen young people threw rocks and bottles was a planned event. The unrest came as residents prepare for the long holiday weekend, including Fourth of July fireworks displays throughout the county park system. And it gave the mayor and sheriff another chance to clash over public security. The crowd on Wednesday damaged windows of a gas station and a county transit bus near Sherman Park about 9:40 p.m., police said. Milwaukee police and the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office were able to disperse the crowd, according to a Police Department statement. No arrests were made and no officers were injured, police said Thursday. The larger issue is whether the incident portends more problems. Milwaukee police continue to work to identify who was involved in the incident, and the department is coordinating with the Sheriff's Office and the county Parks Department to make sure extra resources are placed in the area, according to the police statement. "This was an incident that involved a lot of young people," Mayor Tom Barrett said. "It underscores again why we would like to see more of a sheriff's presence in the park. It's a county park, county buses were involved, we need the sheriff's presence in our parks." In response, Sheriff David A. Clarke Jr. said he "is collecting and analyzing the crime data in the Sherman Park neighborhood." "As soon as he's had a chance to assess the neighborhood data he'll have a response, unlike Tom Barrett, who doesn't know what he's talking about," the Sheriff's Office said in an email. Last week, Clarke called for the city to hire an additional 400 police officers and the county to hire 200 more deputies during a public safety meeting at City Hall, saying Milwaukee needs more "boots on the ground." Barrett said Thursday he was committed to ensuring safety at Milwaukee parks. "Whether there's a presence from the Sheriff's Department or not, I want our parks to be safe," the mayor said. "We will deploy Milwaukee Police Department resources if we don't see the resources that we think are necessary." Asked if this was planned on social media, Barrett said Milwaukee police monitor social media and added: "We've seen this happen before, we saw it with cruising, for example, where you did have individuals who got together and law enforcement can react pretty quickly, and I have every confidence in the Police Department that they'll very, very quickly get to the bottom of this." Vaun Mayes Bey lives nearby and began patrolling the park in June after he learned it was a popular location for fights. On his first day, he said, he stopped four fights. Bey, whose grass-roots group "We All We Got" has 10 members, said he hopes Wednesday's situation gets more people to help. "These teens are being ostracized and demonized, which is part of the problem," he said. "We have grown people but they walk past them every day. They see them out there needing a job, needing a mentor, and they walk past them." Singh, a gas station employee who asked that his last name not be used for fear of retribution, said large groups of teens have been showing up abruptly at the park for the past two weeks. "It's like a flash mob," he said. "Suddenly, you'll see 100 kids show up." Employees have been locking the doors during those times, Singh said. He added that he believes teens in the group were angry they weren't allowed in and started throwing rocks at the station. A window was smashed at the gas station, and a fence was damaged at a nearby restaurant, Redd's Snapper Seafoods IV. Ald. Bob Donovan, chairman of the Common Council's Public Safety Committee, said he wants to make sure the situation doesn't escalate. "I just hope we can get a handle on the whole thing, and hold whoever is responsible accountable," Donovan said. This isn't the first time a large disturbance has erupted in and around a Milwaukee park. Over the Fourth of July weekend five years ago, fights and strong-armed robberies broke out at Kilbourn Reservoir Park in the southern end of the Riverwest neighborhood. A convenience store near the park was looted and people in the park were attacked and beaten during the 2011 incident. Then, in August of that year, another violent incident involving a large group of African-American teens marred the opening night of Wisconsin State Fair. The teens fought among themselves on the fairgrounds and some later attacked people as they left the fair. The State Fair incident led to the arrests of 31 people and left 11 people injured. SHARE By , Twenty-eight private schools have registered to be in the first year of a Wisconsin program to pay for special-needs students to attend taxpayer-funded voucher schools. The schools are from around the state but a majority are in the Milwaukee area. The program provides $12,000 per pupil for students with special needs for the upcoming school year. The Special Needs Scholarship Program was passed in the state budget last summer. The number of schools that chose to register for the program is higher than expected, said Jim Bender, president of School Choice Wisconsin. Because the eligibility requirements for students is so narrow, he had low expectations for the level of participation. To be eligible, students must have been rejected from attending a public school outside their residential district under the state's open enrollment program in the last five years. Students also must have an active individualized education program (IEP) or service plan. An IEP is developed for each public school child eligible for special education; a service plan is the same but for private schools. Bender said few schools have enough students who would fit the necessary requirements so the majority of schools have no need to register for the program. Students can be rejected by open enrollment if the school does not have space or if the pupil has been referred for a special-education evaluation but has not been evaluated. "You had to pretty much be discriminated against by open enrollment in the past five years," Bender said. "If the Legislature had said all students registered in private schools and (who) have an IEP, there would be thousands of students eligible." This is the first year of the program, and 15 of the 28 schools that registered are from Milwaukee. Melinda Skrade, chief administrator at Pius XI High School in Milwaukee, said the school registered for the program because it has enough students that meet the scholarship requirements. A parent or guardian of a student must apply to the school for the scholarship. If more students apply than there are available seats in the school, students are chosen at random. Each school has a limited number of seats. St. Marcus Lutheran School has 81 seats available, while Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran School in Menomonee Falls has just one seat available. In total, there are 412 seats available for students in grades K-12 across the state. Parents and guardians can begin applying for scholarships on Friday. The program was enacted amid political debates in state government about education. Supporters say taxpayer-funded subsidies allow parents to pursue an education better-suited for their special-needs child, potentially at a private school. Opponents say the program is an attempt by conservatives to siphon funding from public schools into the private sector. They contend that the most complete services for special-needs students are in the public schools. SHARE By Houyhnhnms, the noble talking horses in Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels," had no word for "lie." They did not engage in the petty subterfuge of politics and didn't need a word to signify it. The closest they could come is the locution "to say the thing which is not." But lying is much more complex than saying something that isn't the case. A genuine lie a lie in the moral sense must be intended to deceive, and must be expressed to someone to whom the truth is owed. You aren't lying if you misstate a statistic without intending to or if you give a fake name to a prying stranger on the subway. In today's political sphere, the word "lie" is applied to all sorts of things that aren't that. Bush administration officials weren't just wrong about weapons of mass destruction in Iraq; they "lied" about it. Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) wasn't content simply to disagree with President Barack Obama's assertion in 2009 that his health care proposal would not cover illegal immigrants; he had to shout "You lie!" "To lie" has come to mean "to say something I strongly disagree with." In 1988, GOP presidential candidate Bob Dole demanded that Vice President George Bush "stop lying about (his) record," and that word was still sufficiently uncommon to generate surprise and controversy. Since then it has become numbingly routine. What the L-word's promiscuous users don't realize or deliberately ignore is that the language of politics does not lend itself to uncomplicated judgments about truth vs. falsehood. In most cases, political language isn't meant to convey information at all, but to preserve careers or avoid trouble; it isn't aimed at persuasion but electoral victory. Claims made in the political sphere tend to be obtuse and vapid, neither wholly true nor wholly false. There is plenty of disingenuosness in politics, and lots of grossly tendentious factual claims, but those aren't quite the same as lies. All this brings us to a serious problem. After abusing the word "lie" and its cognates for decades, we are currently faced with a choice between two pathologically dishonest candidates and we have no word strong enough to call them what they are. Donald Trump's lies are wanton and preposterous, whereas Hillary Clinton's are more obviously calculated to win approval, but both have exhibited a tendency to say things that are manifestly and peremptorily false. Consider only the most egregious instances. Trump insists that "thousands" of Muslims were cheering in New Jersey on 9/11, a shockingly stupid invention from which he nonetheless refused to back down; that he warned the U.S. government of Osama Bin Laden's danger before 9/11, though there is no record of this instance of his sagacity; that the 9/11 hijackers' wives "knew exactly what was going to happen," though the hijackers were almost all unmarried; that the Bush White House tried to silence his opposition to the Iraq War, though there was no opposition from Trump to silence. Clinton's career offers a similarly dizzying array of bogus claims that she had known nothing about the firing of White House travel office employees in 1993, though she had orchestrated it; that she deplaned in Bosnia under sniper fire; that she was named for Sir Edmund Hillary, who climbed Everest when she was 5; that she was a fierce critic of NAFTA "from the very beginning" when in fact she worked to get it passed; that she "did not email any classified material to anyone," though of course she did, many times. These and similar claims by both candidates are not exaggerations or embellishments or just twisted renditions of the facts. They're... well, they're the commonest word in politics. And so not much of anything. Barton Swaim is the author of "The Speechwriter: A Brief Education in Politics." He wrote this for the Los Angeles Times. SHARE By President Harry Truman coined the term "do-nothing Congress" to describe the gridlock and inaction among his counterparts on Capitol Hill in 1948. Today, that charge is still leveled at lawmakers, often by other lawmakers. What are taxpayers to think of the situation? This Congress has made progress in some areas such as enacting legislation to help reduce tariffs (taxes on trade) and making the federal ban on Internet access taxes permanent. And in fairness, sometimes it's easier to reach the goal post by moving the ball down the field a few yards at a time rather than constantly throwing long passes that bounce into the end zone. Unfortunately for Wisconsinites, the playing field for progress on overhauling the tax system has looked too barren for too long. An analysis by the National Taxpayers Union Foundation found compliance with the federal tax code costs Americans $234.4 billion on top of what the IRS actually collects. That reflects not only out-of-pocket expenses such as software and professional support, but also lost productivity. Taxpayers spend more than 6 billion hours filing their returns. As Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) put it, that's a long time just to figure out how much the government is going to take. Here in Wisconsin, countless individuals and businesses are struggling to navigate the complexities of the federal tax code and its regulations, which total over 10 million words. Those laws are constantly in flux, at a rate that's equivalent to one change every single day between 2001 and 2012. But what's worse, Wisconsinites also face one of the highest effective tax rates. According to research by the Tax Foundation, Wisconsin families paid 11% of their income in tax burdens in Fiscal Year 2012. Coupled with the near-highest corporate tax rate in the world, that means businesses and individuals are keeping less and less of what they earn. There's plenty of blame to pass around for the country's thicket of tax laws and leaders on both sides of Pennsylvania Avenue need to accept their share. But it is inexcusable that 30 years have gone by since the U.S. tax code was last updated. Every day our elected officials wait, the greater the drag the tax system is putting on the economy, driving businesses overseas and discouraging growth. The spike in the frequency of companies exercising corporate "inversions" to manage their tax burdens is evidence of how corrosive the tax laws have become. The Treasury Department recently issued new regulations to discourage the maneuver, but more regulation won't fix the root problem: high rates, harsh treatment of foreign earnings and crushing complexity. In fact, more crackdowns from the Treasury will add even thicker layers of bureaucracy for honest business owners. What does the alternative serious reform look like? Certainly, there are a lot of wrinkles lawmakers will have to work together to iron out, but there are fundamental principles that leaders from both parties can, and should, support. They include lowering rates; smoothing out and streamlining all the deductions, credits, clawbacks and carry-forwards without bias against one sector or another; and refraining from using the tax code as an instrument to pick winners and losers. To their credit, at least some leaders in Washington pledged to support tax reform. Last fall, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said he would prioritize bipartisan reform efforts. "We have a tax code that no one can understand," he told reporters. "We need the IRS and a tax code that works for the taxpayer." Indeed, Ryan and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-Texas) recently released a tax reform blueprint: "A Better Way to Tax Reform." Among other pro-growth reforms, the plan reduces the corporate rate to 20% (as it stands now, the country's combined rate exceeds 39%), more in line with most developed countries. It also lowers the top individual tax rate to 33%. Sadly, for its part, the Obama administration has largely used tax policy to push forward its political agenda and to give a leg up to industries it has courted. For example, President Barack Obama's latest budget plan proposes to raise oil taxes by $10.25 per barrel, which inevitably would get passed on to consumers. The same budget would selectively repeal protections for oil and gas provisions that have equivalents in most other industries. U.S. Senators Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) must recognize the urgent need for comprehensive, bipartisan tax reform. Otherwise, Wisconsin taxpayers will continue to foot the bill, and watch from the sidelines of a politically driven game that ultimately leaves all of us on the losing side. Pete Sepp is president of the National Taxpayers Union. Jim Leissner of Milwaukee shows his photo ID to election inspectors Judy Harmon (left) and Tarubia King before voting at the Frank P. Zeidler Municipal Building in the Feb. 16 primary. Credit: Mike De Sisti SHARE By Madison A federal judge said Thursday there are few clear guidelines for how to rule on parts of a challenge to Wisconsin's voting rules, while also questioning how much of an effect the state's voter ID law has had on elections. "Both the Republican side and the Democratic side probably overstated or overpredicted the impact the voter ID law would have on elections," said U.S. District Judge James Peterson as he heard closing arguments in a lawsuit seeking to strike down election laws. "I just don't see anything really powerful either way." Nonetheless, hanging onto power may have been the main reason Republicans decided to rewrite election laws in recent years, Peterson said. "One reasonable view of the evidence here is much of these changes were motivated by an interest in securing partisan advantage," he said. Peterson said people don't expect voter qualification rules to have a partisan element, but noted there is no clear line of cases addressing that point. "Why aren't there cases that really guide me in this way?" he asked an attorney for the challengers. "There's no easy template for me to follow." At times, Peterson expressed skepticism about key parts of the case, for instance saying he was uncertain about the account a former Republican aide gave of a meeting GOP state senators held just before they approved the voter ID law in 2011. Todd Allbaugh said he eventually dropped his affiliation with Republicans because he was disillusioned by what he saw as an overt attempt to suppress the vote. "I'm a long way from feeling I have to accept Mr. Allbaugh's interpretation" of the meeting, Peterson said. But Peterson also said he was concerned the state had not produced evidence from Republican lawmakers explaining their justifications for the voter ID law and other election regulations. He noted GOP lawmakers were presented with concerns about the effect the laws would have on minorities but did not appear to provide a thoughtful response. Peterson, who was appointed to the bench by President Barack Obama in 2014, is expected to issue a written decision in July, but he has said his ruling would not affect the Aug. 9 primary. His ruling could, however, reset voting rules for the Nov. 8 presidential election. During Thursday's arguments, attorney Bruce Van Spiva contended voting laws adopted by Republican lawmakers and GOP Gov. Scott Walker in recent years were intentionally designed to make it harder for African-Americans, Latinos and young people to vote. That makes the laws unconstitutional and they should be thrown out in their entirety, he argued. Spiva represents two liberal groups, One Wisconsin Institute and Citizen Action of Wisconsin Education Fund, as well as people who have had difficulty getting photo IDs. The lawsuit also challenges limits on early voting, a requirement that voters establish residency 28 days before voting, the elimination of straight-ticket voting and other changes to voting rules adopted since 2011. Assistant Attorney General Clay Kawski argued lawmakers have broad leeway to set voting regulations as they see fit, noting the U.S. Supreme Court made clear states can have ID requirements for voting in a 2008 decision that upheld Indiana's voter ID law. He also contended the plaintiffs had not established they had the legal standing to challenge many of the laws. Part of the case focuses on the system the state has used to provide IDs to people who are qualified to vote but who have trouble getting them because they don't have birth certificates or have errors on them. Walker made changes to that system on the eve of the trial, but for years people without birth certificates have had to go through a lengthy process to try to get IDs. Those people are overwhelmingly minorities. "You're absolutely right that the racial disparity in (that) process is appalling," Peterson said. But he noted only a small group of people have such difficulties getting IDs, and because there are not enough people in that category to throw an election, it hurts the argument that the rules were intentionally designed to depress minority turnout. The voter ID law was on hold for years because of court challenges but was put in place for statewide elections this year after rulings by the state Supreme Court and U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago. This lawsuit is different because it challenges a broader set of laws as well as the system the state has put in place for providing IDs to those who have the most difficult time getting them. The challenges contend such voters are thrown into a bureaucratic black hole. However Peterson rules, his decision is expected to be reviewed by the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, which has shown it is equally divided when it comes to Wisconsin's voter ID law. A panel of three judges from that court upheld the measure in September 2014. The full court split 5-5 on whether the law should be overturned, leaving in place the panel's decision that upheld the law. Republican U.S. Sen Ron Johnson is fighting for the right of conservative talk show host and friend Vicki McKenna and others to puff away on the e-cigarettes. Credit: Rick Wood In recent months, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson has taken up the vaping cause, trying to stub out efforts by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to regulate e-cigarettes. For Johnson, the issue is personal. He has said he is fighting for the right of conservative talk show host Vicki McKenna and others to puff away on the battery-powered devices. "You know how much I like you. I love you, Vicki, let's face it," Johnson jokes on "Keep Vapin', Vicki," a May podcast produced by his staff. "So I'm really glad that you quit smoking. I want to make sure these products are available to you and other people who've quit smoking. "I think what the listeners just heard is an example of what extraordinary knowledge you bring to your show every day, twice a day." CHAT AT NOON: Submit questions now for Daniel Bice Republican Johnson, a nonsmoker who has appeared on McKenna's show 35 times in the past year (twice as many appearances as his second favorite interviewer conservative talker Charlie Sykes), said he was put on the vaping issue by a column on The Wall Street Journal's website. As chairman of the Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee, Johnson likes to say that he can regulate any issue in the federal government. In the November election, Johnson is taking on Democrat Russ Feingold, a former U.S. senator. Johnson and McKenna got to know each other when they appeared jointly in tea party rallies in 2010. McKenna said this week that she never lobbied Johnson on the issue of vaping but was happy that the first-term senator was taking it on. Over the past month, Johnson sent two letters to Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert M. Califf, asking him to justify the agency's plans to begin regulating the $3 billion vapor market beginning later this summer. In an email, McKenna said: "I was happily surprised, and absolutely thrilled he sent the letter! It's an insane regulation that could have the effect of preventing millions of users from being able to stay OFF cigarettes." McKenna has said she smoked up to two packs of Camel Lights a day for 23 years before opting for e-cigarettes. "Truly," she continued, "this regulation will probably actually kill people." The senator followed his May letter by raising more concerns about the FDA's regulations and giving the commissioner a deadline for responding to his questions. Johnson threatened to "resort to other means to compel the production of this information" if Califf failed to respond. "His interest is in fighting peremptory federal regulations and their negative unintended consequence, such as the destruction of businesses and jobs," said Patrick McIlheran, spokesman for Johnson. McIlheran noted that his boss has spent much more time on border security, drugs, education and other health topics than the vaping regulations. In all, he has sent 285 oversight letters to government officials since January 2015, McIlheran said. Johnson is getting involved just as electronic nicotine delivery systems e-cigs, vape pens and other products are exploding in popularity. The FDA announced last month that it would take steps to restrict youth access to e-cigarettes and extend certain traditional tobacco rules to nicotine-containing vaping products. The science on the health effects of e-cigarettes has stirred political debate. Last year, a Journal Sentinel investigation, "Gasping for Action," found high levels of harmful chemicals in locally made e-liquids. It also exposed inadequate testing that allowed manufacturers to make false claims that their products were free of these lung-destroying chemicals, such as diacetyl. A Harvard University study found similar results late last year. But McKenna and Johnson are both relying on the work of a controversial scientist to fight efforts to regulate the vaping industry. Johnson's staff said The Wall Street Journal opinion piece on vaping that caught the senator's attention was by Michael B. Siegel of the Boston University School of Public Health and head of the nonprofit Center for Public Accountability in Tobacco Control. McKenna offered to provide contact information for Siegel to combat "the appalling disinformation peddled about" e-cigs. Siegel has been accused of blowing smoke by some critics with his research disputing that transient exposure to secondhand smoke increases heart attack risk in individuals without coronary disease. He is a foe of outdoor smoking bans and has taken on such anti-smoking groups as the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. "I view him as a tragic figure he has completely lost it," University of California tobacco researcher Stanton Glantztold The Boston Globe in 2007. "His view is that everybody in the tobacco control movement is corrupt and misguided except for him." It's not surprising that Johnson has taken a keen interest in McKenna's pet cause. McKenna did an online ad for an e-cigarette company years ago. She testified at a state Senate hearing in 2014 in support of a bill allowing people to use vaping products indoors. "I found out that, over the course of a few days, I was able to transfer my dependency of cigarettes to the use of an e-cigarette with substantial benefits to my health," McKenna said. McIlheran said there's a good explanation for the large number of appearances Johnson has made on McKenna's show. The senator made more than 400 pre-booked radio and TV interviews in Wisconsin and nearby states in the past year many on conservative talk shows that support Republican candidates and causes. "Her distinct Madison and Milwaukee shows serve largely nonoverlapping audiences, so often an appearance on one can repeat topics from the other," McIlheran said. On air, McKenna and Johnson talk about much more than just politics. They've chatted about his emails in the "wee hours," his mother calling him "Ronnie," their trip to a McFarland bar to watch a Badgers game, their mutual fondness for SweeTarts candy and his no-shave November beard. Both insisted their opposition to FDA regulations of e-cigs is not a coordinated campaign. It's more like a shared interest one of many. "He is ... the chair of the committee that oversees government in the U.S. Senate, so I'm happy to have him on my program any time," McKenna said of Johnson. Contact Daniel Bice at (414) 224-2135 or dbice@jrn.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanielBice or on Facebook at fb.me/daniel.bice. Reddit Email 0 Shares By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) | Secretary of State John Kerry said Tuesday evening at the Aspen Ideas Festival that It has been more than one year since Daesh has actually launched a full scale military offensive, and thats because our coalition is moving relentlessly on every front . . . Now, yes, you can bomb an airport, you can blow yourself up. Thats the tragedy, he continued. Daesh and others like it know that we have to get it right 24/7/365. They have to get it right for ten minutes or one hour, so its a very different scale . . . And if youre desperate and if you know you are losing, and you know you want to give up your life, then obviously you can do some harm. Everything is so partisan in the United States that Kerrys remark drew a sharp rebuke from Congressman Mike McCaul (R-Texas), chair of the Homeland Security said that it defies reality. McCaul said that President Obama and Kerry had been saying that ISIL is on the run for many years, and theyre not theyre on the rise. So who is right here? There is no reasonable metric whereby Daesh (ISIS, ISIL), is on the rise. It is McCaul who is detached from reality on this point. Since its apogee in summer of 2014, I figure Daesh has lost some 60% of the territory it once held in Iraq. The US government was saying it had lost 40% last January, and since then both Ramadi and Fallujah have fallen to the Iraqi government, along with Hit and other areas, including territory north of Beiji. In fact, the losses may be more like 70% in Iraq. All Daesh really has left in Iraq is Mosul and its hinterland. Given what has happened in the first half of 2016, it doesnt seem to me that Daesh will have Mosul next year this time. As a state, Daesh is being rolled up. Likewise, in Syria it has lost Palmyra and the northern half of al-Raqqa province, and has all but lost the key transport node of Manbij. Although press reports typically say the estimate is that they have lost 20% of their Syrian territory, it has to be more. Half of their main province, al-Raqqa, would be more like a third of total holdings in Syria. The red on this map shows what Daesh has lost since February: There is no way to look at this history of the past two years and conclude that Daesh is on the rise. They will lose all their territory, and still be able to launch terrorist attacks. But they wanted to be a state, and on that they will lose. What is really funny is that the US Republican rightwing is now actually invested in Daesh being a success story. The national security narrative is seen by them as an asset. McCaul knows very well that Daesh is going down, but is alarmed that the Kerry story about it might be accepted by the public. - Related video: RT: You cannot negotiate with a mad dog and that is what ISIS is Reddit Email 0 Shares IMEMC News | Israeli land confiscation policy has notably escalated in occupied Jerusalem and West Bank by 439% since the beginning of 2016, in comparison to last year, a Palestinian report revealed on Tuesday. Applied Research Institute Jerusalem (ARIJ) revealed that Israeli authorities confiscated, since the beginning of the year, 7,773 acres of Palestinian-owned lands, recording an increase by 439% in comparison with last year, where 1,442 acres were seized. Israeli occupation authorities have recently escalated a policy of Judaization in the occupied West Bank, notably by expanding its settlement projects, the report pointed out. During the reporting period, Israeli occupation forces demolished 276 Palestinian homes in the West Bank, including annexed East Jerusalem, while 108 homes were destroyed during 2015. 343 agricultural facilities were also destroyed during the first half of 2016 while 59 Palestinian facilities were demolished during the same period, last year. ARIJ revealed that occupation authorities started building 139 using units last May, in the illegal settlement of Shiloh, as part of a project to expand 10 new settlements. Although Israeli authorities do not make settlement population statistics public, Jerusalems Applied Research Institute has reported a population of some 766,000 Israeli settlers residing in illegal settlements scattered across the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem. All Israeli settlements on Palestinian land are considered illegal under international law. Source: Palestinian Information Center/PNN IMEMC - Related video added by Juan Cole: PressTV from March: France concerned about Israels land seizure in West Bank Reddit Email 0 Shares By Golnaz Esfandiari | ( RFE/RL) | Clashes erupted this month between Kurdish fighters and Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), with each side claiming to have inflicted casualties on the other. The countrys heavily censored media have even reported the fighting and acknowledged fatalities on the government side. But why the sudden flare-up? Who is fighting and how widespread is the violence? The past two weeks of fighting have reportedly pitted official forces against members of the Kurdish Democratic Party of Iran (KDPI), with deadly clashes between the IRGC and Kurdish rebels in heavily Kurdish northwestern Iran, near the border with Iraq. Combat was reported on June 15-16 in Oshnavieh, in Irans West Azerbaijan Province. More fighting followed in the nearby Sarvabad, Mahabad, and Marivan regions. Iran Ethnicities, h/t Wikipedia On June 28, the IRGC said its forces had killed 11 Kurdish rebels in the Sarvabad region. An IRGC commander, Mohammad Hossein Rajabi, said three of his troops were also killed in the clashes. The KDPI claims that several of its fighters and more than 20 IRGC members have been killed, and it accuses Iranian forces of shelling villages on the border over the weekend. What are the militants after, and why now? The KDPI has been waging a battle for independence and greater rights for Iranian Kurds for decades. The KDPIs military operations and confrontation with the Iranian regime surged following the 1989 assassination of the partys leader, Abdol Rahman Ghassemlou. But the group, whose fighters are mostly based in northern Iraq, announced a cease-fire in 1997. The fresh clashes follow an announcement by the KDPIs secretary-general, Mostafa Hejri, urging Kurdish youths to join its ranks and unite the struggle in the cities and in the mountains. Hejris statement, made in March to mark the Persian New Year, Norouz, was interpreted as a call to renew the armed struggle against Iran. But KDPI officials have suggested that the group is merely trying to expand its contacts with Kurds inside Iran and recruit new forces. We are not trying to launch a war the war with the Islamic republic [Iran] has been going on for the past 37 years, Rostam Jahangiri, a member of the political office of the KDPI, told RFE/RL last week in a reference to the postrevolutionary establishment nearly four decades ago of Irans theocratic government. Kamran Matin, a senior lecturer in international relations at the University of Sussex, says the KDPI claims it no longer has to sacrifice its own interests meaning Iranian Kurds interests to ensure the security of Iraqs Kurdistan regional government. They feel its time for them to be present inside Iranian Kurdistan, Matin says of the heavily Kurdish region of Iran. Its important to note that they dont claim they have initiated a new round of armed struggle. They claim they simply send their troops to be present, theyre acting in self-defense. But then, in military terms, if an armed group is inside Iranian territory, its highly likely to be attacked by the Iranian security forces. Stockholm-based journalist Saman Rasoulpour says the KDPIs leadership appears to believe that confrontation with Iranian forces might win the group new supporters among Irans estimated 8 million Kurds, who have long complained of discrimination, repression, and political underrepresentation. The leaders of this party believe that military activities which according to their interpretation are defensive actions [against Iranian forces] is a sign of a partys dynamism that could strengthen their base within the population, Rasoulpour says. In a way, in their eyes, armed struggle means that theyre active and that they can create challenges for the [Iranian] establishment, he adds. KDPI officials have signaled that the groups fighters will continue their excursions into Iranian territory. Our party is determined to fulfill our pledge to interlock the struggle [of the Kurdish forces] in the mountains with the struggle [of the Kurdish people] in the cities, Hejri was quoted as saying by the KDPIs website on June 19. What are Iranian authorities saying publicly about the violence? IRGC commanders have said they have been fighting terrorists with ties to counterrevolutionary groups. The IRGC has warned that its forces are carefully monitoring any movement in the border region and will not allow the sustainable peace and security of the people to be disrupted by terrorists. The commander of IRGC ground forces, Mohammad Pakpour, has warned that Iran could launch raids on KDPI positions in Iraqs Kurdistan region. Since the main bases of these terrorists is in northern Iraq, if they fail to act on their commitments not to engage in anti-security measures, their bases will be targeted wherever they are, Pakpour was quoted as saying by domestic media earlier this week. In 2011, Iran targeted the camps in Iraq of another Kurdish rebel group, the Party of Free Life Of Kurdistan (PJAK). Does this fighting represent any genuine threat to Iran? Despite claims by KDPI leaders about the groups strength and support among Iranian Kurds, analysts generally agree it does not possess the capability to pose a serious military threat to Iran. The KDPI doesnt have that level of force to conquer territory and hold it or to inflict massive casualties on Iranian troops, simply because of the demographic proportion of the Kurdish population in Iran. Also because they have not been engaged in military activities for almost two decades, so even on a very simple military training [level], theyre not really ready to cause any large-scale problems for the Iranian state, analyst Matin says. Is this in any way related to Iranian military involvement elsewhere in the region? The clashes are not likely to affect Irans involvement in Syria. If the violence in northeastern Iran continues and Tehran acts on its pledge to attack KDPI bases inside Irans Kurdish region, that could create tensions in the region. Matin says it remains to be seen how Iraq, the United States, and countries such as Turkey will react. It can escalate, he says. But Matin speculates that Iraqi Kurdish parties, due to their strategic dependence on Iran, are unlikely to allow the KDPI to continue its operations against Iran for any extended period of time. Via RFE/RL Copyright (c) 2016. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave NW, Ste 400, Washington DC 20036. Reddit Email 0 Shares Alpaslan Ozerdem | (The Conversation) | Another heinous terrorist attack has horrified Turkey and shocked the rest of the world. The target this time was Istanbuls busy Ataturk Airport and it is believed to have been the work of Islamic State gunmen who are thought to have entered the country before the beginning of Ramadan. The death toll is believed to be at least 41 people with many hundreds more reported injured. Turkey has experienced a number of similar deadly attacks over the past six months by both Islamic State and TAK an offshoot of Kurdish terrorist group PKK with which Turkey has been fighting an increasingly vicious war for many years. Attacks have targeted Istanbul, the Turkeys cultural and financial centre, and its political capital, Ankara. But Ataturk Airport is a particularly significant target, as it is the third busiest airport in Europe and hugely important for the Turkish economy. The attack focused on the international arrivals zone in the airport, which is doubly significant because Turkeys tourism sector has suffered a serious downturn in recent months as a result of the various attacks. There had been hopes that a campaign of diplomatic rapprochement with Israel and Russia would help boost weak tourist numbers, but this is a devastating setback. Ironically, on the day the attack took place, Turkey announced that it had reached an agreement with Israel over the attack on the Mavi Marmara in 2010 which left nine Turkish activists dead after Israeli commandos raided a flotilla bound for Gaza. Israel had agreed to pay compensation to families of the dead activists and allow Turkey to build a hospital in Gaza. The agreement will restore full diplomatic relations and will likely pave the way for a large natural gas deal between the two countries. Turkey is also in the process of normalising its relationship with Russia following the shooting down of a Russian warplane in November 2015. Vladimir Putin offered his sympathies during a phone call shortly after news of the attack broke. He is understood to have instructed his government to begin the process of lifting the sanctions against Turkey that had been in place since the military clash. It has been suggested that the airport attack by Islamic State might even be a reaction to these positive recent developments. Tensions have been high across Turkey since the breakdown in the Kurdish peace process last year. The armed violence in south-eastern Turkey has since risen to unprecedented levels. Domestically, Turkey went through two highly divisive general elections in June and November 2015 which were followed by the sudden removal from power in May 2016 of the prime minister, Ahmet Davutoglu, by Erdogan. Many saw this as a further step in the presidents ambition to change Turkeys governance model to allow him to become an executive president. No good news Against such a backdrop of regional and political instability, Turkey continues to host nearly 3m Syrian refugees and the conflict in Syria and Iraq, both of which share a border with Turkey, pose a wide range of constant regional security threats. The presence of Syrian refugees is increasingly becoming a destabilising factor in the country. Turkey has always been a challenging geopolitical environment with its borders extending from the Balkans to the Caucasus and the Middle East. But the situation is now as volatile as at any time since the end of World War II. With the emergence of non-state armed actors such as Islamic State and disintegration of international borders drawn up in the aftermath of World War I, Turkey certainly is now in a demanding, divisive and dangerous place. Looking west, the question of Turkeys EU membership continues to fester without much direction or vision. The recent deal on the resettlement of Syrian refugees, which was expected to lead to a visa-free regime for Turkish citizens within the EU, was expected to begin in July. But it has already been postponed over concerns about Turkeys anti-terror legislation. It is thought that the possible failure of this deal will mean that membership talks will once again be placed on the back burner. And with all of these grim developments as a backdrop, it is thought likely that Erdogan will continue to further push his presidential agenda at the cost of exacerbating the already deep socio-political divisions throughout the country. Today, Turkey is a country with serious deficiencies in democracy, governance, the judicial system, human rights, the rule of law and more importantly security. Some commentators have even warned of the possibility of a full-blown civil war. More terror attacks such as this massacre at Ataturk airport can only serve to hasten the country down this dark path. Alpaslan Ozerdem, Chair in Peace-Building, Co-Director of Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations, Coventry University This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. Related video added by Juan Cole: Euronews: Turkey terror attack: Istanbul reacts Vancouver, British Columbia (FSCwire) - ALIX RESOURCES CORP. (Alix or the Company) (AIX-TSX:V) (37NFRANKFURT) is pleased to announce the assay results of the recent round of sampling at the Electra Project in Sonora, Mexico, where values as high as 246.0 parts per million (ppm) lithium (Li) confirmed a target sedimentary assemblage with the potential of hosting economic lithium-bearing, clay-rich horizons. The Electra lithium project is contiguous to Baconora/REMs Buenavista Lithium project. Mike England, president of Alix, stated: "These recent anomalous and enriched lithium values from clay-rich sedimentary sequences on our Tecolote concession are encouraging and bear similarities to Bacanora/REMs early stage findings at Buenavista. Once we receive the results from the next round of sampling we will likely proceed with a drilling program designed to further explore the lithium potential of this property. We are obviously in the right location and the mineralization to date found on the property is very promising to our exploration team. Our drill campaign will likely include a series of shallow drill holes in key geological targets such as the sedimentary assemblage and also in some alluvium-covered areas. The objective is to discover lithium-rich clay layers similar to that of the Bacanora/REM Buenavista deposit." Previous work carried out last December on the Electra lithium project led to the discovery of a lithium-bearing, clay-rich showing on the company's northern Tecolote concession adjoining the Bacanora Minerals Ltd. (BCN-TSX:V) and Rare Earths Minerals PLC (REM-LON))'s Buenavista concessions (PR 2016-01-06). Reverse circulation drilling by Bacanora/REM's on the Buenavista concession has discovered a clay-rich layers (the Buenavista Li deposit) in a sedimentary sequence over an area of 6 by 1.25 km (BCN PR, 2014-11-03). Alix geologists, along with a contracted geologist with previous working experience on Bacanora/REMs Buenavista concession, revisited the showing discovered in December on the Tecolote concession, which returned a peak value of 211.0 ppm Li. Geological mapping and prospecting identified a distinct, sedimentary package containing clay-rich layers. This target area has been designated the Central Basin. In total, 42 samples were collected from claystones, sandstones and siltstones exposed in the target sedimentary sequence, yielding and average Li value of 167 ppm and a peak concentration of 272 ppm, which is considered very anomalous. The sampling program identified two target areas located in the Central Basin and underlain by the target sedimentary sequence. The first target, the eastern area, is approximately 1,100 m long by 250 to 400 m wide. The second target area is located east of the Barisuqe river and 700 m SW of the first target and measures roughly 400 by 150 m. The zone in between the targets has also been mapped and is covered by extensive, thin alluvial sediments that may be underlain by the same prospective sedimentary sequence. Both target areas in the Central Basin are likely to be expanded given the relatively flat-lying nature of the sedimentary beds and extensive, thin alluvial cover. Additional sampling and geological mapping has been completed and assays are pending. On Bacanora/REM's Buenavista concession, the lithium-bearing clay-rich layers were little exposed and required drilling to define and understand the sedimentary stratigraphy. Management has also determined to not proceed with the previously announced (see PR Jan 11, 2016) acquisition of the Gran 2 property. The technical contents of this release were approved by Michel Boily, PhD, P.Geo a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. The properties have not been the subject of a National Instrument 43-101 report. About Alix Resources Alix Resources is a junior mining exploration company focused on seeking and acquiring world class lithium projects globally. Alix continues to evaluate suitable prospects that fit the mandate of the Company. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Michael England Michael England, President, CEO, Director FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Telephone: 1-604-683-3995 Toll Free: 1-888-945-4770 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. WEST KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - June 30, 2016) - COLORADO RESOURCES LTD. (TSX VENTURE:CXO) ("Colorado" or the "Company") announces the drilling progress on the Inel Zone at the KSP Property under option from SnipGold Corp. (see News Release dated December 20, 2013) which was recently acquired by Seabridge Gold Inc. on June 21, 2016. Adam Travis, President and CEO of Colorado, states: "We welcome Seabridge and look forward to working with our new partner on the 30,504 hectare KSP project in the Heart of the Golden Triangle, in which we have an option to earn up to an 80% interest. Colorado also holds a 100% interest in the 32,825 hectare KingPin Property on trend to the southeast, thus totaling more than 65 km of prospective strike under Colorado's direction. "We have completed an incredible 15 drill holes and nearly 2,000 m of drilling in less than two weeks with one drill rig. Our exploration team and contractors are to be commended for their accomplishments as we have been the first to commence exploration in the area to get a head start on the 2016 field season. Drill core samples have and will continue to be sent to the assay laboratory as drilling continues and we anticipate assay results by mid-July on the first half of our initial phase of drilling in the Inel area. "We also continue to advance our geological concepts of the Inel Zone and are noting geological similarities and linkages with the Khyber Zone located approximately 2 kilometres to the south suggesting that the gold mineralized system may be potentially larger than originally understood (see Figure 1)." Qualified Person Greg Dawson P.Geo, is the Qualified Person ("QP") as defined by National Instrument 43-101 that has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. About Colorado Colorado Resources Ltd. is currently engaged in the business of mineral exploration for the purpose of acquiring and advancing mineral properties located in British Columbia and is also seeking opportunities in Southwest USA and Latin America. Colorado's current exploration focus is to continue to advance: the KSP property currently under option with Seabridge Gold Inc., located 15 km's along strike to the southeast of the past producing Snip Mine; its 100% owned Kingpin property; its 100% owned North ROK property, located 15 km's northwest of the Red Chris* mine development, both located in northern central British Columbia. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF COLORADO RESOURCES LTD. Adam Travis, President and Chief Executive Officer Cautionary Note *This news release may contain information about adjacent properties on which Colorado has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this news release, constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions, including: that the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events, that the Company obtains required regulatory approvals, that the Company continues to maintain a good relationship with the local project communities. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions referred to prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work, that the Company's financial condition and development plans change, delays in regulatory approval, risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company as set forth in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis reports filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information or statements, other than as required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) [advocacy website] on Wednesday filed a lawsuit [complaint, PDF] challenging a provision in the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) [text] allowing for criminal prosecution based on access that exceeds authorized use. The ACLU contends [advocacy materials] that the broad interpretation of the prohibition on unauthorized use to obtain information from any protected computer allows for criminal prosecution for violating a websites terms of service, which may prohibit gathering or recording publicly available information, creating multiple accounts, or providing false information. The plaintiffs in the case, including academic researchers and a news organization, argue [press release] that the people who want to use those methods for socially valuable research should not have to risk prosecution for using them The CFAA was enacted in 1986 to protect against federal computer hacking. Since then, the law has been used numerous times, including in the high-profile case against internet activist Aron Swartz. In April 2012, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected [JURIST report] a broad interpretation of the authorized use provision that would have extended liability to people who access unauthorized information while on a computer they were authorized to use. In 2006, AT&T filed suit [JURIST report] against 25 people claiming they committed fraud by posing as potential customers to obtain information about other customers to be used in legal disputes. Courts have also attempted to use the law in cyber bullying cases. In 2009, a California appeals court overturned the conviction [case materials] of Lori Drew who had been convicted of setting up a fake Myspace account for a 13 year old girl, who eventually committed suicide. [JURIST] Amnesty International (AI) and Human Rights Watch [advocacy websites] (HRW) issued a joint statement [text] on Wednesday calling for the removal of Saudia Arabia from the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) [official website]. The groups are urging the General Assembly to invoke a provision of Resolution 60/251 [text, PDF] allowing for suspension of membership in the HRC for states who have committed gross and systematic violations of human rights. HRW and AI allege that Saudi Arabia has committed systematic violations of human rights during its time as a Council member, including numerous attacks [in Yemen] that have violated international humanitarian law, including indiscriminate and disproportionate airstrikes, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties. The statement comes after supposed failure by a national commission of inquiry to address human rights violation occurring in the on-going conflict. Both groups have also accused Saudi Arabia of threatening to withdraw funds from UN programs, in an attempt to remove the country from the List of Shame after killing and injuring children during attacks directed at schools and hospitals in Yemen. The rapidly deteriorating situation in Yemen has sparked significant international concern. In March UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad Al Hussein criticized [JURIST report] the Saudi Arabian coalition forces in Yemen for the more than 3,000 civilian casualties resulting from the conflict in just the past year. Also in March, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned [JURIST report] that the use of cluster bombs by the Saudi-led coalition against neighborhoods in Yemen may amount to a war crime. The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said [JURIST report] that the civilian death toll in Yemen had reached nearly 2,800. In January the UN World Food Programme appealed to all the parties involved in the Yemen conflict to allow the safe passage of food [JURIST report] to the city of Taiz. In October Amnesty International called for [JURIST report] an independent investigation into possible war crimes surrounding the destruction of a hospital run by Doctors Without Borders in Yemen. Two justices of the Supreme Court of India [official website] on Wednesday declined to rule on a petition challenging the constitutionality of the countrys law prohibiting sex between consenting adults of the same sex. The petitioners, several prominent LGBT celebrities, had argued that their lives had been inexorably constricted and their rights infringed [Times of India report] by Section 377 [advocacy materials] of the Indian Penal Code, which provides for punishment including life imprisonment for carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal. Justices Sharad Bobde and Ashok Bhushan deferred judgment on the petition and referred the case to Chief Justice T.S. Thakur [official profiles] to determine whether a five member panel should consider the petition. Thakur is currently considering [JURIST report] a similar petition against Section 377 filed by the Naz Foundation [advocacy website], who successfully challenged Section 377 in the landmark 2009 case Naz Foundation v. Government of Dehli [text, PDF] at the Delhi High Court [official website]. The High Courts decision was reversed [JURIST report] and Section 377s constitutionality upheld by the Supreme Court in December 2013. The lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community (LGBT) continues to face legal challenges throughout the world. Last December voters in Slovenia rejected a law [JURIST report] that would allow same-sex couples to marry and adopt children. In November the Constitutional Court of Colombia ruled [JURIST report] that same-sex couples can legally adopt children. The UN has become increasingly focused on the rights of LGBT individuals. In September 2015, 12 UN agencies released a joint statement [JURIST report] arguing that abuses toward the LGBT population are human rights abuses impacting society as a whole. In June 2015, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reported [JURIST report] that members of the LGBT community continue to face discrimination and human rights abuses. [JURIST] The Supreme Court of the United States [official website] on Tuesday denied [orders list, PDF] certioriari in Stormans Inc. v. Wiesman [SCOTUSblog backgrounder], a case challenging a Washington regulation requiring pharmacies to sell birth control despite potential religious objections of employees. The petitioners, a pharmacy and two pharmacists, challenged the applicability of rules promulgated by the Washington Pharmacy Quality Assurance Commission [official website] that require pharmacists to timely deliver prescribed medication, including so-called Plan B emergency contraceptives. The regulation allows a pharmacist who objects to Plan B on religious grounds to refuse to fill the prescription provided another, non-objecting employee is available to provide the medication. The petitioners objected to application of the rule under the free exercise clause of the First Amendment [text]. Last year, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals [official website] found that the asserted rights were not fundamental [opinion, PDF], and thus that the regulations need only pass the rational basis test. With Tuesdays denial of certioari, the Supreme Court has declined to review the decision and the Ninth Circuits ruling now controls the question. Justice Samuel Alito filed a dissent, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Clarence Thomas, saying that those who value religious freedom have cause for great concern. The debate over abortion law and womens right of access to contraceptives has gathered a lot of international attention in recent years. In an open letter [text] released in February, Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Amnesty International (AI) [advocacy websites], along with five other advocacy groups, urged [JURIST report] Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma [official website] to sign a bill that would increase womens access to safe and legal abortion. In December 2015, In November a Northern Ireland High Court [official website] ruled [judgment] that Northern Irelands abortion laws, which only allow abortion when the mother faces the risk of death or serious injury, is a violation of human rights [JURIST report]. Also in November, an AI report [press release] stated that woman who suffer miscarriages or complications in the course of their pregnancy can be charged with counts of abortion or even aggravated homicide, which breeds an atmosphere of suspicion and fear [JURIST report] surrounding the pregnancy process. In June 2014 The US Supreme Court [official website] ruled [opinion, PDF] 5-4 that closely held for-profit corporations can deny coverage [JURIST report] of contraception costs because of their religious beliefs. NEWSLETTER Sign up Tick the boxes of the newsletters you would like to receive. Just Drinks Daily News The top stories of the day delivered to you every weekday. Just Drinks Weekly News A weekly roundup of the latest news and analysis, sent every Monday. Just Drinks Magazine The industry's most comprehensive news and information delivered every quarter Track product launches by FMCG companies to get an understanding of the product-level strategies including geographic concentrations, innovation types, product claim, category focus and more Monitoring the advertising strategies of various brands and gain insights into channel focus, regional focus, and more Perform company-level analysis to understand business model, size, and geographic focus Unilever product advertising is mainly through mainstream TV channels. Out of the products advertised so far at least 50% (over 850) of ads have been run on TV, while print media comes second with 496 ads. Unilever also utilizes social media platforms for advertisement. Unilever products are categorized by innovation ratings and tags in our product launch database. The North American region consists of almost 74 products with innovations related to the formulation of the product. Europe and other regions also have more products categorized under formulation-related innovation, followed by the packaging and positioning of the products. Most Unilever products are tagged with High Vitamins, Recyclable, and Natural tags to understand what the product differentiator is from other products available in the market. The majority of products belong to the personal care industry with a total of 5,788 products to date. This report, through the Unilever Example, illustrates how GlobalData Explorer enables you to:Dont miss out on key market insights that can help optimize your next investment read the report now. New York City, NY, 06/29/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/ In some states, legislation limits the amount of money a plaintiff can receive in a medical malpractice case. This is often a shock to people who have been injured in a hospital or at the hands of a physician or other medical professional. When you consider that hospital errors are now the third leading cause of death in the United States causing 251,000 deaths and thousands more injuries annually knowing your compensation could be cut off at the knees is a tough pill to swallow. New York does not place arbitrary caps on damage awards in medical negligence cases. This does not mean, however, that juries are allowed to award unreasonable amounts of compensation. If you have been injured by a doctor, or you believe you received negligent care in a hospital or other health care facility, contact New York medical malpractice lawyer Jonathan C. Reiter. Time is of the essence in these cases, as the law limits the amount of time in which you have to file a claim. The Chilling Effect of Med Mal Damages Caps In recent years, personal injury and medical malpractice damages caps have been a favorite topic of so-called tort reformers in many states across the country. The idea behind limiting the amount of money a plaintiff can receive is that it lowers the cost of health care for everyone. Proponents also claim damages caps reduce the number of frivolous lawsuits, which drain judicial resources and make it more difficult for plaintiffs with legitimate cases to get access to the court system. A number of states with this type of legislation put caps on non-economic damages, which include damages for things like pain and suffering costs that can be difficult to quantify. However, these laws havent gone unchallenged. According to the American Bar Association, a number of states have seen their tort reform laws attacked as unconstitutional. Although many of these states lawmakers have good intentions, the reforms they have passed often create an unfair result for people who have been catastrophically injured. A recent Kansas case is a tragic example of how medical malpractice damages caps can leave a grieving family feeling victimized twice. According to a KCTV News report, a Missouri mother was devastated to learn that the $2.5 million in damages she received from a Kansas City jury would be reduced to just $350,000. The mother lost her unborn child at 36 weeks gestation when an emergency room doctor failed to diagnose an internal hematoma; instead, the doctor sent her home with pain medication. The jury found the doctor liable for the babys death. Prior to deliberation in the case, jurors were not told of a Kansas law that caps medical malpractice damages at $700,000 as of 2015. Because a prior version of the law capped damages at just $350,000 a law that was in place when the doctors negligence occurred the mother may receive just $350,000 if the judge rules that her case should be governed under the previous statute. No Arbitrary Caps on Damages in New York Medical Malpractice Cases According to New York medical malpractice attorney, Jonathan C. Reiter, New York law does not arbitrarily cap damages in medical negligence cases. In New York, there are no arbitrary caps on damage awards in medical malpractice cases, he said. Reiter notes, however, that New York does have necessary and effective checks and balances against unreasonable damages. Both the trial level courts and appellate courts have authority to reduce jury verdicts that they feel exceed fair compensation, and this is an appropriate and highly effective way to guard against unjustly high awards, he said. He added that New York courts also have the ability to give a plaintiff additional compensation when a jury does not fully compensate a medical malpractice victim. Coincidentally, he said, the courts have authority to increase awards that are deemed inadequate in view of the actual damages sustained. The evil of damages caps is that they arbitrarily penalize those that sustain the most egregious and catastrophic injuries. The traditional goal of civil damages is to make the injured party whole to the extent possible. Arbitrary caps on damages prevent the most seriously injured victims of medical malpractice from ever being made whole and impair the ability of courts and juries to provide true justice to our citizens. Call a New York Medical Malpractice Lawyer about Your Case If you have been injured by a physician or hospital, call New York medical malpractice lawyer Jonathan C. Reiter for a free case evaluation. source: http://injuryaccidentnews.jcreiterlaw.com/2016/06/29/does-ny-law-put-caps-on-damages-in-medical-malpractice-cases/ Social Media Tags:hospital errors, medical error, medical malpractice, new york medical malpractice attorney Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution SubmitMyPressRelease.com Like Us on Facebook It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print Dallas, TX, USA, 06/29/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/ In an earlier post, called Dallas Drug Possession Lawyer- Getting a Sentence Reduced in Federal Drug Cases, Federal drug defense attorney John Helms described four ways that a person accused of drug distribution in a federal case can potentially get a reduction of their sentence. This post goes into more detail about how cooperating with the government can potentially do this. In federal court, drug sentences can be very high, and there are mandatory minimum sentences that may mean your sentence must be at least a certain number of years. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines give judges guidance on a recommended range of months in prison (such as 120-140 months) for a given crime and a person with a given criminal record. In drug cases, the Sentencing Guidelines range mostly depends on the type and quantity of drugs involved, the persons prior criminal record, and factors such as whether any drugs were imported, whether a gun was possessed in connection with the crime, whether anyone was seriously injured or killed, and whether the person was a leader or organizer of others. Most judges will follow those recommended range of months in most cases. Federal law provides, though, that the judge can lower the Federal Sentencing Guideline range based on a persons cooperation with the government. So, for example, a person with a Sentencing Guideline range of 120-140 months might get their Guideline range cut to 60-75 months for cooperation. In addition, and maybe most importantly, federal judges are allowed to sentence someone below the mandatory minimum sentence based on cooperation. So, in most cases, cooperation is by far the best way to reduce your sentence, reports Dallas drug lawyer Helms. So, what do you have to do, and how much can your sentence be reduced? The Federal Sentencing Guidelines say that, in order to get a reduction, a person must provide substantial assistance in the investigation or prosecution of another person who has committed an offense. This substantial assistance can be in connection with the investigation or prosecution of people involved in your case or in connection with a completely unrelated crime of any kind. In order get the reduction the prosecutor must file a motion with the court asking the court to reduce your Sentencing Guideline range based on the prosecutors opinion of how helpful you have been. The judge is not required to agree to what the prosecutor asks, but they usually do. In order to provide substantial assistance and persuade a prosecutor to make this request, you must do something that is actually helpful to the government. This means more than just telling the prosecutor what you know, because if the government already knows what you tell them, then you have not provided any actual help. Even if you tell the government something they do not already know, it must be information that is valuable to them. Examples of cooperation include: (1) Providing information that the government does not already know, such as giving the government the names of people unknown to the government who were involved in a crime, helping them find a fugitive, or helping them find money, guns, or other evidence connected to the crime. (2) Agreeing to testify against others, which can help the government persuade them to plead guilty if they know that a witness is going to testify against them. (3) Testifying at trial against another person, which can help the government get a guilty verdict at trial. (4) Participating in a sting operation, which can help the government arrest and convict someone. The key to providing valuable cooperation is usually to begin cooperating early. If another defendant in your case tells the government something valuable before you do, that person will get the credit, because by the time you tell them, the government will already know it. Similarly, if you agree to testify against others after several other defendants have already agreed to testify, then you have not added much. This is only an overview. In each case, if you decide to cooperate, you will need your drug defense lawyer to guide you throughout the process by helping you understand what you can and must do to improve your situation, making sure you get credit for what you do, and trying to persuade the prosecutor to ask the judge for as much of a reduction as your cooperation warrants. If you or someone you know has been charged with a federal drug offense or are facing other drug charges, contact Federal drug defense attorney John Helms immediately. Call 214-666-8010 Read the first article here: Dallas Drug Possession Lawyer Getting a Sentence Reduced in Federal Drug Cases Media Contact Dallas Criminal Lawyer John Helms 214-666-8010 https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-helms-69172699 source: http://johnhelms.attorney/federal-drug-defense-attorney-cooperate-government-cut-sentence/ Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution SubmitMyPressRelease.com Like Us on Facebook It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print Dallas, 06/29/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/ Most people have an intuitive sense of what constitutes a crime. For example, you probably know that taking something from a store without paying for it is a shoplifting offense. And while you may not go to jail for running a red light, you may end up with a traffic citation if a police officer sees you do it. Our laws are put in place to make sure society functions as safely as possible. At the same time, these laws need to be balanced against personal freedom. If you have been charged with a crime, contact a Dallas criminal defense lawyer right away. In some cases, many might argue these personal freedom go just a touch too far. Here are five things that are perfectly legal in the U.S. even though some might argue they probably should be outlawed, or at least regulated a bit. Barefoot Driving Try to order a cheeseburger without shoes, and you might get asked to leave. No shirt, no shoes, no service has become something of a mantra for restaurants and retailers across the country. You probably wont get service without footwear, but it is legal to operate a vehicle barefoot in all 50 states. In Ohio, the law even explicitly states that operating a vehicle without footwear is permitted, however, the statute also says its not recommended. On the other hand, if you cause an accident because your lack of shoes caused you to lose control of your vehicle, you may be held liable in civil court for any injuries caused by the crash. Read more about barefoot driving in the U.S., including some interesting facts about how often barefoot drivers cause accidents. Counting Cards They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. If you count cards, however, you might not get to stay very long. The casinos reserve the right to ask guests to leave if casino officials suspect card counting. This has led many people to assume its a crime to count cards. In fact, counting cards is not a criminal offense. In fact, several students from MIT gained fame and quite a bit of money by outwitting the casinos in an elaborate card counting scheme. Parking a Tank in Your Backyard If you have the space and the extra cash, you might be able to add a tank to your personal vehicles. The Wall Street Journal published a report about a small fraternity of tank owners in various states, including Texas. These tank owners are mostly war memorabilia collectors, but many take their unique vehicles out for parades and other events. Generally, private citizens can purchase a tank as long as they have the proper government permit. Before you buy, however, check your local laws to make sure your municipality doesnt have a special law on the books prohibiting residents from storing oversized vehicles within city limits. Police Lying During Questioning The police are specifically trained to get suspects and detainees to confess to criminal acts. Not only are police not required to be truthful when they talk to you, they are trained to lie if it means obtaining an admission of guilt. In recent years, several courts have attempted to curtail police bluffing techniques, but the practice remains widespread. This is why its critically important to get a criminal defense lawyer on your side as soon as possible after being questioned about a crime or detained or arrested during a criminal investigation. Corporal Punishment in Schools According to a United Nations report, school-administered corporal punishment is banned in 42 countries. In the United States, the states are split on corporal punishment in schools, with the majority of states outlawing it by statute. Texas is one of 18 states that still permits schools to use physical discipline. Contact a Dallas, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Today If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, dont take risks with your freedom. Get in touch with a Dallas, Texas criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The criminal defense lawyers at Broden & Mickelsen are Board Certified in Criminal Law and Criminal Appellate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. source: http://www.brodenmickelsen.com/blog/is-it-legal-5-things-that-arent-a-crime-in-the-u-s/ Social Media Tags:barefoot driving, counting cards, parking a tank in the backyard, police lying during questioning, corporal punishments in schools. legal facts Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution SubmitMyPressRelease.com Like Us on Facebook It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print Philadelphia, PA, USA, 06/29/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/ Independence Day is quickly approaching, which means many people will be celebrating with fireworks. Whether you plan on attending a professional, orchestrated display or setting off one of your own, its important to keep safety in mind as you share the 4th with friends and loved ones. Fireworks for home use are illegal in Pennsylvania unless you have a permit. Having a permit does not make them any less dangerous and they can cause catastrophic injuries when handled by amateurs. It is strongly recommended that you satisfy your need to experience first-hand the wondrous joy and spectacle that a fireworks display creates by attending your local professionally produced event to celebrate our Nations birthday. If you have been injured in a fireworks-related accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, when someone else is at fault. Contact a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. 1. Amputations Each Independence Day, the media reports several stories of people suffering serious hand and arm injuries due to fireworks. Amputations are life-changing injuries that can stop you from working and enjoying life. In a case in California, a man setting off fireworks in his driveway at home lost three fingers on his left hand, as well as his entire right hand, when the mortar type munition exploded as he held it to light it. After the accident, he was forced to quit his job as a construction worker. 2. Decapitations Obviously, a decapitation is a horrific accident that leaves a family grieving. For one North Dakota family, a defective firework caused a loved one to die tragically. The firework detonated prematurely, resulting in his decapitation. 3. Eye Injuries Innocent spectators have been blinded in fireworks-related accidents. In a 2012 case in England, a boy was blinded when a man tossed a firework at him in a planned attack. 4. Burns Fireworks are often unpredictable. They dont always light up when they are supposed to, which can lead to serious burn injuries. In an Ohio case in 2013, a man was seriously injured when the bag of fireworks he was carrying exploded. In that case, the fireworks were actually produced by a private individual in a residential neighborhood. According to investigators who worked on the case, the fireworks were actually the chemical equivalent of dynamite. Cases like this demonstrate why its important to leave the fireworks displays to professionals that acquire their fireworks from a licensed, reputable fireworks dealer. Accidents at Public Fireworks Displays Fireworks-related injuries can also occur at official fireworks productions. In 2013, dozens of children and adults were injured when a planned fireworks display detonated ahead of schedule. Several fireworks tipped over as they lit prematurely, knocking into others and creating a domino effect of unplanned explosions. People in the crowd panicked, causing several spectators to suffer trampling injuries. Celebrate Safely Fireworks reach the peak of their popularity over the 4th of July holiday. Its no surprise, then, that fireworks-related injuries also increase during this time. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that approximately 230 people are hurt by fireworks in the days leading up to the 4th of July. Burns make up about half of all fireworks injuries; however, other common injuries include hearing loss and blindness. Most fireworks-related injuries are completely avoidable. The majority of fireworks accidents happen because people use them improperly. Other injuries occur because people mix fireworks with alcohol consumption. Tragically, many fireworks injuries also involve children. According to the CPSC, 20 percent of fireworks injuries are caused by sparklers, which are a favorite with kids. Put Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers to Work for You Fireworks are fun, but they are not without significant risks. Used improperly, they can result in devastating injuries. If you have been hurt in a fireworks accident, or you have suffered any other kind of injury due to a summertime activity, you need an experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyer on your side as soon as possible. Call Philadelphias premier personal injury lawyers at 888-373-4LAW. The injury lawyers at Rand Spear are here to help you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Newsroom powered by Online Press Release Distribution SubmitMyPressRelease.com Like Us on Facebook It's only fair to share... Pinterest Linkedin email Print The most troubling thing about the EU referendum in the UK isnt its result but what the campaign revealed about the condition of our democracies. I arrived in London the day after the results of the British referendum. I found many of my friends in a state of shock and dismay. The Brexit vote has revealed the deep fissures in British society between London and the rest of the country, between economic classes, between urban and rural populations, between Scots and English, and even between generations (the young voted overwhelmingly to stay in the EU). The age of obscurantist campaigns The vast majority of non-Europeans are unaffected by what has happened here. But what has been most troubling indeed horrifying was the way the political campaign was fought. It mirrored the vicious obscurantism of the current American presidential campaign. The Remain camp, led by the outgoing Prime Minister David Cameron, exaggerated the security threats and economic fall-out of leaving the EU. But the Leave camp, led by the ambitious Boris Johnson, traded on blatant lies which the tabloid media swallowed wholesale and sold its gullible readers. Lies such as: more than 60 per cent of British legislation emanates from Brussels; an invasion of Poles, Romanians and Bulgarians (not to mention refugees from North Africa and the Middle East) who will be taking British jobs and enjoying social benefits (while neglecting to speak of the millions of Britons living in the rest of Europe and doing the same); the imminent entry of Turkey into the EU (unlikely, at least for another decade); the UK paying 350 million pounds a week to the EU (while neglecting to mention that more than half that returns in the form of rebates). The Leave campaign, in other words, openly exploited the incipient racism in British society. It played to the jingoism prevalent among older Britons, evoking nostalgic fantasies of an island superpower. The glaring social inequalities in Britain, which understandably fuel deep resentment among the poorer communities, were blamed on the EU and not on the biased austerity programs of the ruling Tory party. Unemployment caused, not by European migrant workers or refugees, but rather by globalisation and robotisation were scarcely addressed. Taking back control and Independence Day were the popular sound-bites of Johnson and his merry band of little-Englanders. In an age of climate change, international terrorism and technological globalization, these are meaningless slogans. I am not enamoured with the EU, but it has proved to be more effective than member-states in checking the unethical activities of transnational technology giants and countering right-wing movements in Europe. I am not enamoured with the EU. Quite apart from its unaccountable bureaucracy, it is an inward-looking club bent on building a Fortress Europe and ignoring its responsibilities to the rest of the world. But it has proved to be more effective than its member-states in checking the unethical activities of transnational technology giants and countering right-wing movements in Europe. If a nation-state believes that leaving is better than staying and reforming it from within it needs to give reasons more ethical and compelling than the fear of foreigners. (Ironic that a country which colonized half the world still lives in fear of foreigners). Britain boasts of being the cradle of democracy. It has developed liberal institutions that other nations have sought to emulate. All the more disturbing, therefore, when both Britain and the USA present to the rest of the world an image of electoral politics that seems to glorify selfishness, racism, intolerance and wilful ignorance. I can imagine the leaders of China or North Korea rubbing their hands in glee, and telling their citizens languishing in local prisons: You want democracy? Look at what is happening in the US and UK- do you want such men to rule over you? A referendum works on the assumption that all voting citizens will be well-informed about the issue that is under dispute. It presupposes a mass media that is truth-seeking and not merely free. And on an issue as serious in its long-term ramifications as whether or not to remain in the EU, it is important that a two-thirds or three-fifths majority be sought rather than a simple majority. I am surprised that David Cameron did not consider this with his legal and constitutional advisers before he called for a referendum. Civility and moral integrity are the presuppositions of public life, not their product. Isnt it an illusion to think that we can have a democratic society based purely on constitutions and formal procedures, without paying any attention to the moral formation of individual citizens? The kind of people we are and become shapes the kind of society we have (though it is also true that the kind of society we live in shapes what we become). Civility and moral integrity are the presuppositions of public life, not their product. For instance, the parties to an agreement must already have a sense of what is right, and a willingness to abide by it, even when it is in their own interests not to do so. A contract is no contract at all if it is kept only when it is convenient to do so. Also, if elected public officials cannot be trusted to be concerned with the common good, the louder voices in society will prevail. The quest for good governance begins with a sense of moral outrage at the undeserved exclusion and humiliation of other human beings. Our moral sensibilities are nurtured principally through our families, schools, and religious communities and institutions. Where most families are dysfunctional, schools merely tuition-factories, universities servants of corporate interests, and religious institutions become inward-looking and self-serving, the roots of a well-functioning democracy wither. Vinoth Ramachandra was born in Colombo, Sri Lanka, holds both bachelors and doctoral degrees in nuclear engineering from the University of London, currently serves in Senior Leadership Team as Secretary for Dialogue & Social Engagement of the International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES), is author of several essays, articles and books including The Message of Mission (2003), Subverting Global Myths: Theology and the Public Issues that Shape Our World (2008) and Church and Mission in the New Asia (2009). The article was originally published under the same title on Vinoth Ramachandras blog. OMAHA Two area men are among 18 people arrested during a two-day prostitution sting in Omaha. According to a press release from the FBI, 39-year-old Roger Loseke of Columbus and 41-year-old Cory Miller of Silver Creek were arrested for soliciting prostitution during the multi-agency sting that occurred while Omaha hosted the College World Series and U.S. Olympic Swim Trials. Additional details on the arrests were unavailable Thursday afternoon. The FBI Omaha Child Exploitation Task Force, Omaha Police Department, Council Bluffs Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff's Office and Nebraska State Patrol partnered on the law enforcement operation to combat human trafficking. Among the 18 people arrested, 15 were taken into custody for prostitution charges, one for prostitution and possession of a controlled substance and two were charged with pandering. Most of those arrested are from Omaha, but others reside in Kansas, Michigan, Wisconsin, California and Texas. COLUMBUS While some private schools are struggling to boost or even maintain enrollment numbers, one small school is seeing growth. Columbus Christian School will have a more than 20 percent increase in students when the new school year starts in August. The jump can be attributed to a push to promote the school, which was established in 1994. Dave Mitchell, who took over as administrator in February 2015, said he expected some growth, but the increase from around 45 students to about 60 was more than anticipated. I think it is kind of a secret to people that a Christian school is in town, said Mitchell, who came to Columbus after being involved in education in Colorado. That is why publicizing the school has been a priority over the past several months. Columbus Christian is the brainchild of 15 couples who wanted to have a Christian-based, nondenominational school in the community. It is located at 3418 15th St. in a building that used to house Highland Park School. Throughout the years, enrollment has typically been in the 40s, with the highest topping out around 70. We had been stagnant in the past. We rolled out a marketing initiative and let people know what we do and we talked to people, Mitchell said. He doesnt expect to have such a big increase in student enrollment every year, but there is probably enough room to have 100-120 students in the K-8 facility that also includes a preschool. There are currently eight teachers at the school. Now that enrollment has gone up, another focus will be on accommodating the growth and, ultimately, keeping the students through the eighth grade. Mitchell said some students leave after the fifth grade to attend Columbus Middle School. That is a trend he would like to reverse. What we are working on is retention. When you get students and families committed to your school, you want to do everything to meet expectations, he said. That includes offering the Christ-centered education that has been the school's hallmark since it opened 22 years ago. With growth also comes renovations to the school. The preschool program now offers separate classes for children ages 3 and 4. To make that work, the preschool room will be split into two sections with a divider. Another renovation currently underway creates space for a new technology program. A room to house recently purchased computers is being constructed where the stage used to be. The renovations are being completed using funds from the estate of Richard Otterpohl. The Columbus man died in 2014 and left most of his estate to the school and Columbus Community Hospital. Work on the school building is expected to be finished before the start of the new school year. LINCOLN July 1 will see the birth of a new state agency, but there are questions about whether the new Nebraska Office of Parole Administration will fulfill all the mandates of state lawmakers. Until now, the parole officers who supervise released inmates have worked under the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. Rosalyn Cotton, the head of the new agency and the chairwoman of the State Board of Parole, expressed confidence that the shift to an independent office will be hardly noticed by the public or the inmates supervised by parole officers. So did a New Jersey consultant hired by the state. In fact, there are high hopes that a separate state agency for parole will bring improvements in transitioning inmates back into society, thus reducing recidivism and helping inmates turn their lives around. But when Cotton was asked about a legislative mandate to equalize the salaries of parole officers with higher-paid state probation officers, she said she was unsure how or if that would happen. I think theyre looking into that at this time, she said. Administratively, Im still figuring out how this will work as well. Its a work in progress. A key state lawmaker on corrections issues said pay equality is essential if the new parole agency intends to avoid the staffing problems seen at state prisons, where turnover of corrections officers is high and salaries are much lower than comparable jobs in county jails. A state law passed in 2015 to create the independent parole office stated that the new agency should pay parole officers wages that are substantially equal to those of probation officers, who are employees of the state court system. So far, that hasnt become part of the budget at the new parole office. Were going to see the same problems we see at Corrections if we dont get ahead of these issues, said State Sen. Heath Mello of Omaha. It is unclear at this point what a substantially equal salary might be. As of Friday, the pay for a parole officer is $17.90 per hour, and the pay for probation officers ranges from $18.38 to $22.34 hourly. Probation officers oversee offenders who have been sentenced to probation instead of jail time. Moving parole administration to an independent agency was one of the least publicized of the many reforms enacted by the State Legislature in recent years. Currently, about 44 officers supervise nearly 1,300 parolees, a 30 percent increase over the past five years. The Board of Parole decides who should be paroled and under what conditions but does not supervise the parole officers and staff. That will change July 1. Parole plays a key role in the system by preparing inmates for re-entry into society, helping them get jobs and keep out of trouble. It can also play a key role in reducing prison expenses it costs about one-tenth as much to supervise someone on parole than to feed and clothe them in a state prison. Establishing an independent parole agency was among the recommendations of a special legislative committee that investigated the troubles within Corrections in 2014. Those problems included chronically overcrowded prisons and the miscalculation of hundreds of release dates for inmates. More recently, a deadly prison riot broke out a year ago in Tecumseh, and earlier this month, two dangerous inmates escaped from a prison in Lincoln. Former Omaha Sen. Steve Lathrop, who led the legislative probe, said lawmakers were concerned that pressure was being exerted by the Governors Office and Corrections on the Parole Board to release more inmates to help reduce prison overcrowding, regardless of whether they had received proper rehabilitation programming. (The Parole Boards) goal should be public safety and making sure those people who are released on parole have satisfied the preconditions for parole, Lathrop said. The special committee recommended an independent parole agency to separate it from outside pressures. It also recommended that the new parole office be physically moved out of Corrections headquarters in southwest Lincoln, something that has not been done. William Burrell, a former New Jersey state probation director, was hired as a consultant to guide the transition and paid $45,000. Burrell said theres no one best way to organize parole functions, and states handle those functions in a variety of ways, including combining parole with probation or putting parole within the state corrections department. But the advantage of Nebraskas new system, he said, is that the Parole Board will now be directly responsible for the parole officers who supervise the states parolees. Plus, the new parole offices primary function will be parole, Burrell said; Corrections primary job is care and custody. When a parole office is a small part of a big agency, theres a chance it can be overlooked, Burrell said. The salary issue might be an example, he said. Just how much more money it will cost to raise the salaries of the offices 44 parole officers is unclear. The bill creating an independent parole agency also called for adding four new parole officers, and a trio of new staff, including an attorney and a policy analyst. Burrell said the parole offices budget is going to grow because of the staffing needs and because expenses such as electronic monitoring and drug testing will transfer to the new agency instead of being buried in a larger agencys budget. Its a fact of life that may raise some eyebrows among legislators and the Governors Office. But its a natural product, he said. Its not because theyre building an empire. Cotton, the agencys new director, said shes been working 13- and 14-hour days to make the transition work. Besides hiring Burrell, a transition working team of top state administrators has been meeting weekly. The new agency has contracted with the Corrections Department to continue to provide several administrative services, including payroll, and has hired a director of supervision and services, Julie Micek, who had worked with state probation, to be its top administrator. We have a wonderful staff. Were going to make this transition successfully, Cotton said. State Corrections Director Scott Frakes, who initially opposed the exit of parole from his department, also expressed confidence in the new arrangement, saying that his agency and the Board of Parole have been effective partners in the transition. Mello, who chairs the Legislatures budget-writing Appropriations Committee, said he plans to get to the bottom of the funding issue for parole officer pay. The Office of Parole Administration must submit a budget request to lawmakers by Sept. 15, and right now, the lawmaker said, the office does not have an adequate budget to increase the salaries, as prescribed by the Legislature, or to hire the additional parole officers. LINCOLN Nebraska state officials failed to correct the prison terms of 15 inmates after discovering in 2014 that hundreds of sentences had been miscalculated, the corrections department's director acknowledged Thursday. Scott Frakes said staffers didn't calculate new sentences even after learning they were inaccurate. He said he didn't know why the sentences weren't adjusted, but the staffers responsible were from a previous administration and no longer work for the department. "The work was assigned and not completed," Frakes said in a briefing with reporters at the Capitol. Frakes said corrections staffers reviewed more than 900 other sentences, and no other errors were discovered. The Nebraska Department of Correctional Services announced in 2014 that it released more than 300 prisoners too early because it failed to follow two state Supreme Court rulings that spelled out the correct way to calculate sentences. Most were allowed to remain free because their correct release date had passed, but 32 are in limbo until a judge rules in two "test cases" that will determine whether they have to complete their sentences behind bars. About 600 others who were still in custody at the time had their release dates changed. Some employees at the time told a legislative committee that they suspected the sentences contained errors, but were afraid to bring the issue to their superiors. One of the 15 inmates, Sean McLaughlin, was rearrested on Wednesday. Another inmate, Aaron Finney, was discharged from parole too early because of the error and may have to resume it. Neither man has been charged with any crimes since he was released, Frakes said. Frakes said 10 of the inmates are still incarcerated in Nebraska's prison system and will have their sentences adjusted, one is in federal custody, one is in a California prison and one was deported to Mexico. McLaughlin was serving a four-year sentence for drug possession when he was released. However, the sentence that was miscalculated was for attempted burglary, methamphetamine possession and child abuse that began in 2009. Julie Smith, the department's general counsel, said McLaughlin still owes time for those crimes. Finney was serving a three- to six-year sentence for firearm possession by a felon and shoplifting. Frakes said he spoke briefly with McLaughlin on Wednesday after he was rearrested, and the former inmate was confused and concerned about why he had to return to custody. Frakes said he hopes prison officials can place McLaughlin in a work release program so he can return to the community, but the process could take as long as 90 days. "He was still trying to process what had happened," Frakes said. Smith said a judge will determine how much parole time Finney owes the state. Family members of victims cry outside the Forensic Medical Center in Istanbul, Wednesday, June 29, 2016. Suicide attackers killed dozens and wounded more than 140 at Istanbul's busy Ataturk Airport late Tuesday, the latest in a series of bombings to strike Turkey in recent months. Turkish officials said the massacre was most likely the work of the Islamic State group.(AP Photo/Emrah Gurel) TURKEY OUT 605 Shares Share This spring, thousands of medical graduates will cross the stage and become doctors. Yet practicing medicine isnt the only career for these young professionals; the path to becoming a doctor also provides ample skills for entering the innovation economy. Todays medical students are perfectly poised to change the gridlock of the U.S. health care system and medical schools should empower them with the support and business exposure necessary to tackle these problems. As a practicing physician, an individual could help hundreds of lives over a lifetime. But consider the scale of technology: How many lives can a physician touch if she invents a new medical device, therapy or technology? In any health care startup, that number grows by an order of magnitude into the millions. Kemp Battle, an expert on building teams within businesses, once told me that an individual is most valuable in the first five days on a job, and again during the last five days of that job. The most surprising insights come from those with fresh eyes, or those leaving with the benefit of hindsight. Young doctors, whether recent grads or residents, are in this position to see medicines pain points and then dream up a fix. While established physicians perform important and noble work, they are entrenched in the system. On the flip side, all medical students on rotation and new residents experience a moment when theyve wondered why things are done a certain way and the answer is usually just because thats the way its been done forever. But why? Beyond new attitudes and fresh perspectives, medical school, and residency already teach some of the basic skills necessary to survive a startup, even without entering a combined MD/MBA program. Students handle and analyze massive amounts of data; work effectively inside a team in high-pressure environments, and think on their feet to make fast decisions. They also become used to changing environments as they shift between clinical rotations in schools or different departments in residency. (Plus, being responsible for peoples lives isnt exactly low-pressure work.) Medical schools should push the envelope here: Lets teach our medical students business skills, expose them to coding, or place them in internships with local tech companies. All doctors are inherently primed to the mission of many startups: to help the world for the better. And with some of the worlds best medical schools and strong life sciences and tech communities, Boston is a perfect testing ground. Of course, the path to graduation from medical school isnt easy. Over a decade of education and $100,000+ in loans later, doctors are just getting started on their careers. After such an investment of time and money, traditional medicine may seem like the only path forward. And becoming a practicing doctor is an admirable mission, especially given the predicted shortage of as many as 90,400 physicians in the U.S. by 2025. Yet, paradoxically, having an MD serves as insurance against the risk of founding or joining a startup. Young companies often fail, but with such a valuable degree, there will always be a job somewhere whether thats re-entering medicine, going into consulting, or beyond. Millennial physicians are ideally positioned to change health care through entrepreneurship and the medical community should empower them to do just that. Instead of hundreds of articles in the New England Journal of Medicine, what if the doctors teaching at Harvard or Tufts had hundreds of patents to their names? What if more of our young doctors spent time changing lives on a massive scale, not just in the U.S. but all over the world? The last decade has seen a sea change in health care, with the passing of the Affordable Care Act, rise of online medical resources and apps, and new paradigms in doctor-patient relationships. Patients are active, informed participants in (and consumers of) health care, and the paternalistic model of medicine is breaking down. Young doctors are poised with the unique skillsets and insights to navigate this shifting landscape and continue to change their industry for the better. We should encourage them to think beyond the stethoscope to the possibilities of improving the lives of not just a handful of people, but millions. Shantanu Gaur is co-founder and chief scientific officer, Allurion. Image credit: Shutterstock.com 468 Shares Share Prince died of an opioid overdose. A tragic and avoidable fate but, even more tragically, one that is becoming increasingly common in the United States. Some people who overdose live on the edge of societyhomeless and with no access to good medical care. Prince, by contrast, had several mansions and a number of physicians actively involved in his care, physicians aware of his problem with opiates. In fact, just days before he died, Princes airplane had to emergency-land because he experienced symptoms of opioid overdose. With so many physicians at his disposal and so much evidence his opioid use was spiraling out of control, did Prince die because his physicians were particularly bad at handling his needs? Sadly, the answer is probably no. Although I have no inside knowledge of Princes care, from what I can tell, his physicians are not very different from the ones caring for many people with opioid addiction. Many, if not most, physicians are simply not prepared to offer proper help to patients struggling to control their use of prescription narcotics. The best evidence I have to back up this claim comes from a study published January in the Annals of Internal Medicine. The research team was led by Marc Larochelle from Boston Medical Center. Larochelle looked at what happened to patients after they experienced a nonfatal opioid overdose like Prince did in the airplane ride a few days before his death. Specifically, he assessed whether their doctors reduced the dose of their opioid medications. He found that doctors did not reduce peoples narcotic doses very much. Here is a picture of this result: As the picture shows, the percent of people on high doses of narcotics (the red part of the middle bar) declined in the first 30-90 days after the non-fatal overdose, while the percent off of narcotics (the green bar) increased. These changes are for the good, but they are far too modest. And over time, narcotic doses climbed again, as shown in the bar on the right. These dosages matter because the higher peoples doses were, the more likely they were to experience another overdose: In short, despite sirens blazing warning signs overdoses, for gosh sakes! many people remained on very high doses of prescribed narcotics, and one out of six who remained on high doses overdosed again! To make matters worse, efforts to intervene and alert physicians that they are overprescribing narcotics dont have much impact on physician behavior. Here, for example, is a picture of what happened when a different group of researchers sent letters to high-prescribing doctors, alerting them that their prescribing of narcotics was greater than average: In short, the doctors didnt blink. Are American physicians really that bad? Let me defend physicians, while still acknowledging that we have got to do a much better job. First, narcotic addiction is an incredibly difficult problem to treat. Many patients who experience narcotic overdoses have legitimate pain syndromes. And when people are hospitalized with signs of narcotic overdose, doctors cant simply take them off of their medications, or they will cause patients to go into withdrawal. Instead, these patients need to be gradually tapered from narcotics. But a tapering that can worsen pain control and that is almost always resisted by patients. In addition, many physicians have not received adequate training on how to manage chronic pain, and how to handle patients whose narcotic use is becoming troublesome. Moreover, many patients are very good at hiding signs of their narcotic use from their physicians. Its still not easy to find out whether patients are receiving additional narcotics from other physicians. In other words, if I prescribed oxycodone to one of my patients, I cant always find out whether she is receiving other dosages of other narcotics from other physicians. In addition, people sometimes supplement prescribed opiates with drugs they buy on the street. Currently, we dont know, for example, whether the fentanyl that caused Prices death was prescribed or not. Physicians need better training on how to manage chronic pain and on how to help patients wean themselves from narcotics when they run the risk of being harmed by these medications. And we need a better system to track narcotic use. Prince is one of many thousands of wonderful people we have lost to opioid overdose. It shouldnt have to be this way. Peter Ubel is a physician and behavioral scientist who blogs at his self-titled site, Peter Ubel and can be reached on Twitter @PeterUbel. He is the author of Critical Decisions: How You and Your Doctor Can Make the Right Medical Choices Together. This article originally appeared in Forbes. Image credit: Shutterstock.com 4K Shares Share The practice of medicine in the United States is almost entirely based on national guidelines and regulations. Minor, inconsequential differences may exist from state to state, but nothing significant enough to justify the current requirement of comprehensive, redundant licensing of physicians in each individual state in which they practice. Notably, in an uncommon example of federal common sense, physicians can work at any Veterans Administration facility, in any state, with any active state license. Why the exception? Because it just doesnt matter. Compare the situation to a drivers license. Most citizens carry a drivers license from their home state, for which they must meet requirements to obtain and maintain, and they freely drive from state to state (even internationally) with this license being recognized by local authorities. Traffic violations in any state are reported to the home state. Obviously, a drivers license does not require the same stringent training as a medical license, but the application of the associated rights is the same: that is, once an individual has met the requirements, they should justifiably be able to exercise the rights of that license throughout the country. If those rights are ever revoked, they should logically be revoked nationally as well. Why is it a problem? Although most physicians spend the majority of their medical training and careers within 1 to 2 states, and their experience with their state medical board is generally limited to paying a few hundred dollars every 1 to 2 years, and confirming adequate CME credits, there are other physicians, like myself, who have worked for locum tenens and telemedicine companies in multiple states, for which the licensing process can snowball ridiculously. In addition, many of us live near state lines, and if there are urgent medical needs to be filled in a nearby state, one must obtain an entirely new license to provide assistance. It is simply irrational. Case in point: I am currently applying for my 10th state medical license: Virginia. I have nine other state licenses, each of which must be verified by the state board of Virginia. On top of that, almost all of the state medical boards charge a fee for this verification, and up to 30 days to process, although often the information being requested is available instantly for public access on the individual state board websites. So, since my first medical license was in Pennsylvania, I have now paid Pennsylvania 9 times to send a verification of my license to other state boards. I have also paid to send transcripts from various training institutions to each of the states. Yes, national credentialing organizations, like FCVS, make this easier, but each time transcripts are needed, there is a fee. It just isnt necessary. These are clearly outdated self-perpetuating bureaucratic processes that waste time and money, and prevent or delay doctors from providing medical care to patients in need. In recognition of this illogical present state, there is an effort underway called the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact that will expedite multiple-state licensing by state medical boards that are members of the Compact. The Compact is a nice idea, and already 16 states have joined (although the actual expedited licensing process has not yet started). Physicians should certainly advocate for expanding this to all 50 states. However, the Compact is an unnecessary incremental step for a problem with a single logical solution: a national medical license. With a national medical license, states would not have to worry about sharing disciplinary information. There would be only one licensing board: a National Board of Medicine. The state medical boards could remain and do other things to promote health in their individual states, or even add additional requirements to the national license, if they wish, but the core licensing process should be done at a national level. The state-based bureaucratic stagnation and waste must stop. Express your concerns to your state representatives and state boards. David M. Mitchell is a hospitalist. Image credit: Shutterstock.com Police are called out to a Stripes convenience store on Mines Road regarding a woman who allegedly tried to run over a store employee. And it wasn't the first time. Police say Karin Campbell allegedly tried to hit the employee with her car Wednesday morning. When police arrived, they tried to get Campbell out of the car - but she sped off and fled the scene. A chase ensued for over 20 minutes, which finally came to an end on Mile Marker #12. Campbell was arrested and charged with evading arrest with a vehicle. There were a few tears of joy among the many smiles last Friday as 31 Chernobyl children arrived to Kilkenny as part of their life-enhancing rest and recuperation programme. They will spend almost four weeks with their host families in Kilkenny and nearby areas. The scene, at the Orchard House, where children arrived to be welcomed by their families was very emotional for those returning and being reunited with their Kilkenny families. The children here for the first time were introduced to the families with whom they will stay for the next month. Their apprehension and shyness was soon followed by curiosity and excitement as they embraced the new adventures ahead of them. For many of the children, it will be their first time to experience simple things such as, swimming, the beach, cinema, restaurants, playgrounds and so forth. During their visit, the Chernobyl Kilkenny Outreach Group have many outings organised for the children to enjoy ensuring they are given every experience that is possible. The childrens visit to Kilkenny for most is a once in a life time experience. An old favourite is the day trip to Fota Wildlife in Cork, which never fails to impress, fabulous party organised by Supermacs Kilkenny for the children, a trip to Spashworld and Tramore, a trip to Clara Lara in Wicklow, a barbeque at Dicksboro GAA Grounds and more. Some of the children joining the Kilkenny group this trip are Genia, who will be staying with his host family the Cullens, and Vasili, who will be joining the Morrisseys. The two Sashas will also be hosted by Kilkenny Outreach Group, whose leader is 2014 Irish Volunteer of the Year Jim Kavanagh. The Kilkenny Outreach Group fundraise tirelessly, and a huge thanks to everyone who helped in any way to make this happen, for the continuing support of people of Kilkenny, and to the fantastic host families. You create the magic for those vulnerable children. It's a very special and much anticipated time of year for all. A man who was found wearing the wrist watch of Bishop Seamus Freeman when he was arrested on another matter was found guilty at Kilkenny District court of robbing the luggage of a woman on a bus going from Dublin to Dungarvan, County Waterford. Peter Donoghue, Garryduff, Paulstown brazenly took a young woman's carry-on case from the under-carriage of a bus while it was stationed at Kilkenny railway station as passengers were taking their belongings from the hold. The distraught woman only realised her wheelie case had been stolen when she got to her destination in County Waterford. The culprit, Peter Donoghue was seen with the trolley on CCTV in MacDonagh Junction shopping centre, bedside the railway station. However when he was apprehended by diligent gardai, most of the items were gone from the case. The court heard from Insp Liam Connolly who said that the defendant had a total of 73 previous convictions and that 39 of those were theft of one sort or another involving property and cash. It was disclosed that Mr Donoghue is presently in Clover Hill prison after being jailed in Cork for a number of offences in February of this year. However, he was arrested on the streets of Kilkenny city on May 2 of this year following the incident at the city's railway station. When he was arrested it was discovered he was wearing the watch of the Catholic Bishop of Ossory which had been stolen in a robbery earlier this year for which another man was in court. It was also disclosed that Mr Donoghue, a habitual offender, co-operated with gardai and made a full admission involving both incidents saving garda and state and resources. Solicitor, Chris Hogan said his client had a chronic heroin addiction and that he had made efforts to address his addiction and that he was making steady progress in the prison. He was remanded in custody until a further court sitting at the end of July. (Kitco News) - Golds start-of-the-year rally wasnt enough to change one gold bears mind. However, given the market uncertainty following the Brexit vote and the higher likelihood of delayed Fed hikes, Barnabas Gan has finally upped his forecast. Our bearish call for gold has long been anchored on the rate hikes by the Federal Reserve, the OCBCs commodity economist and once deemed most accurate precious-metals forecaster, said in a report Thursday. But, noting that the Fed chairwoman Janet Yellen is a known dove, and her reference to the global economic health (Chinas slowdown, Brexit, low oil prices) in her recent speeches leaves us to question if there indeed is going to be a rate hike this year. Taking this all into consideration, Gan said he has increased his year-end gold forecast by about $150. Despite a rate hike by the Fed, should it come to pass, the risk-off sentiment from the suspense should dominate and lift gold to its $1,350/oz handle easily into the year ahead, he said. Should Yellen fail to hike, gold prices would see further upside risk into the $1,400/oz region. Gan had previously been calling for gold to end the year at around $1,200 an ounce. Gold futures were slightly lower Thursday after posting nearly two-year highs in the aftermath of last weeks surprise UK vote. August Comex gold futures were last down $5.40 at $1,321.60 an ounce. Related Stories: By Sarah Benali of Kitco News; sbenali@kitco.com Follow @SdBenali (Kitco News) - A U.S. district court judge has dismissed three private lawsuits accusing JP Morgan Chase & Co. of rigging the market in Comex silver futures, according to a Reuters report. The lawsuits alleged that in late 2010 and early 2011, JP Morgan placed artificial bids, harangued employees at Comex to obtain prices it wanted, and made misrepresentations to a committee that set settlement prices, according the late-Wednesday report from Reuters. This allegedly squeezed traders, including hedge-fund manager Daniel Shak, according to Reuters. This ultimately led to them liquidating positions at losses. However, U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer in Manhattan said the plaintiffs did not show that JP Morgan made "uneconomic" bids or intentionally rigged the market at counterparties' expense. He also questioned the plaintiffs' use of Silver Indicative Forward Mid Rates (SIFO) as a benchmark, the report said. "Given the (lawsuits') failure both to explain why SIFO should track silver futures spreads, and to concretely plead that it did so consistently, a mere general correlation between these two is not sufficient to make SIFO a reliable benchmark such that deviations from it support a claim of irrational pricing animated by anticompetitive aims," Engelmayer wrote. Reuters reported that the dismissal of the lawsuits was with prejudice, meaning the suits cannot be brought again. Related Stories: By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com Follow @KitcoNewsNOW By Chris Henry, chenry@kitsapsun.com COLCHESTER A 4-year-old husky that allegedly bit a Colchester woman and severely injured an animal control officer June 20 has been declared a potentially dangerous animal by Kitsap Animal Control. The declaration, announced Wednesday, carries with it a number of restrictions and requirements on the owner, who must keep the dog confined behind a secure fence, muzzle it when the dog is off the property, register it as potentially dangerous and secure at least $50,000 in insurance indemnification. Failure to abide by these restrictions could result in further sanctions and potential future impound of the dog, Beau. "Any violations of these restrictions can result in severe civil and even criminal action," said Eric Stevens, executive director of the Kitsap Human Society, which oversees Animal Control. "Neighbors will be well advised to monitor and report any observed violations to us quickly." Although Beau has a history of severely biting two people in 2014 in Multnomah County, Oregon, the declaration is the extent of animal control's legal options, said Chase Connolly, Animal Control's field manager. "In this case, both Washington state and Kitsap County law limited Animal Control from taking additional actions such as confiscating or euthanizing the animal," Connolly said. Under Kitsap County law, the owner may appeal the declaration to a hearing examiner. Beau has been in quarantine at the Humane Society since the incident. Quarantine is required in any bite incident when an animal breaks the skin, so it can be observed for rabies. The dog will be returned to his owner Thursday. The owner faces citations and fines for violations, including bite infractions, animal-at-large and failure to license the pet, Humane Society spokeswoman Rebekah Johnson said. By Kitsap Sun Staff SILVERDALE The Kitsap County Association of Realtors' board of directors ratified its government affairs committee's decision to oppose Kitsap Transit's cross-Sound ferry ballot measure. Though the association has supported previous passenger-only ferry ballot measures, it is concerned about the burdens this proposal's three-tenths of 1 percent sales tax increase would place on Kitsap County residents, according to a news release issued Wednesday afternoon. It also worries that the proposal could cost cities access to road improvement funds, that some of the ferries would have a small passenger capacity and that the agency is underestimating capital construction and terminal maintenance costs. Despite its opposition, association leaders strongly encourage the Kitsap Transit board to leave the measure on the ballot and give voters the opportunity to decide the issue in November. The association's government affairs committee in April came out against the proposal to run fast ferries from Bremerton, Kingston and Southworth to downtown Seattle. It would cost $48 million to establish and $11 million annually to operate. The committee's decision wasn't embraced by the board of directors, which told the committee to present it with the ferry plan's pros and cons. There was some expectation the vote would be overturned. However, during a special meeting Wednesday, it backed the committee. "Board members committed a lot of time to understand the issues and challenges," association Executive Mike Eliason said. "Overall, they remain dedicated to supporting the passenger-only ferry concept." Patrick Gower writes: Andrew Little should apologise to tax expert John Shewan for treating him with utter contempt and total disrespect. Mr Little has been caught out big time and it serves him right. Mr Little got things wrong about Mr Shewan and has to put them right. So Mr Little issued a retraction at 5:17pm on Saturday, June 18 two hours and 18 minutes before kick-off of the Wellington Test. This is so cynical it is sad. Everybody knows that is the absolutely dead time in a media cycle when it would get the least attention. It is cunning and awful and rude and Mr Littles actions show why people distrust politicians. Now things have bounced back on Mr Little and his own credibility is being called into question and it serves him right. A lot of this is arcane and complex but it is important because Mr Little is auditioning to be Prime Minister. His actions and his words are important. Mr Little yesterday repeatedly said that Mr Shewan did not ask him for an apology about incorrect statements made about him. So then Mr Shewan pulled out a letter to Mr Little that said: I now request the statement I sent to you yesterday be issued with the following additions: I apologise to Mr Shewan for any embarrassment I have caused him through my statements. Sadly for Mr Little, it doesnt get much clearer than that. Contrary to his public claims, Mr Shewan asked for an apology. Stuff reports: New Plymouths only Maori councillor has signalled a desire to move into national politics. During Saturdays Maui Pomare Day celebrations at Waitaras Owae Marae, Howie Tamati formally announced his intention to seek the candidacy to represent the Maori Party at next years general election. The first step in the process is for Tamati to be selected by the party to be the person who will contest the Te Tai Hauauru seat, a decision which is not likely until the end of the year. At this stage it is unknown how many other candidates he will go up against. Tamati said he felt it was the opportune moment to declare his political ambitions to his people, on his home marae. In May, Tamati announced he would not seek re-election onto the New Plymouth District Council, 15 years after he was first elected. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Low 41F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Low 41F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%. Charlie Severance buys the first bottle of wine Friday, July 1, 2016, from cashier Jan Powell at Food City on Morrell Road. The sale of wine in grocery stores began Friday. (G. CHAMBERS WILLIAMS III/NEWS SENTINEL) By Ed Marcum of the Knoxville News Sentinel Grocery and convenience stores around the state can legally start selling wine at 8 a.m. Friday, and Knoxville stores are set for a busy day. Some stores, such as Trader Joe's, 8001 Kingston Pike, will be offering giveaways, live music, balloons and other activities to celebrate. The Kroger store at 4918 Kingston Pike will have a ribbon-cutting at its wine department, including remarks by Kroger officials and by state Sen. Becky Duncan Massey. The start of wine sales in retail stores, combined with Monday's July 4 holiday making for a long weekend, have many store officials anticipating heavy business this weekend. "It will be a busy weekend, but I think the wine will add an element of excitement," said Food City CEO Steve Smith. "For years, consumers have asked to be able to buy their wine with their food and groceries, and the Fourth of July weekend just underscores the convenience that they will have." Kroger spokeswoman Melissa Eads said there is a lot of pent-up demand. "Customers have been anticipating and waiting for July 1 just as much as we have," she said "They have been seeing us setting up stores and getting a sneak peek at the wine. Now they can kick off the Fourth by purchasing wine in our stores." However, the timing of the holiday might cause some confusion and frustration for customers. While state law now allows wine sales in grocery and convenience stores between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m., it does not allow wine sales on Sundays or on federal holidays. So, customers will be able to buy wine Friday and Saturday, but not Sunday or Monday. They will be able to buy it again until Tuesday. Smith said he is sure the situation will be frustrating for customers. "We are sorry for that and we apologize, but we will try to get those laws changed over the next year," he said. "Certainly, consumers can express their displeasure to their elected representatives," Smith said. Eads said most wine consumers will be used to these restrictions from buying wine in liquor stores. Anthony Denny, manager at Trader Joe's, said that store has put up signs in its wine display areas explaining the situation to customers. "But there will be a learning curve until customers get used to it," he said. The beginning of wine sales in grocery stores came after a years-long political battle before approval was won in the state General Assembly in 2014. After that, stores had to be reworked for space for wine display areas, a ton of paperwork had to be approved by the state and staff had to be trained. This opened up a new market for companies such as Knoxville-based TopShelf, a beverage-service training company co-founded by former restaurant manager Kim Pouncey. TopShelf trains the trainers who train the staff at stores, restaurants, bars and other establishments to serve alcohol in compliance with state laws. The company either trains people who provide training as independent businesspeople, or as corporate trainers. TopShelf worked with Kroger, Food City, Trader Joe's and other stores that planned to carry wine in Tennessee. "We've trained about 1,000 managers with 34 companies." she said. In Disney's fantasy-adventure "The BFG," directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Roald Dahl's literary classic, Sophie (Ruby Barnhill) befriends the BFG (Mark Rylance). SHARE By Angela Dawson, Special to Go Knoxville After years of working with various Hollywood movie studios, acclaimed director Steven Spielberg ("ET, the Extra-terrestrial," "Saving Private Ryan") finally links up Disney to create a fantasy family movie "The BFG." The story is based on Roald Dahl's 1982 novel of the same name. The story centers on a young orphan (played by newcomer Ruby Barnhill) who is kidnapped by a giant one night. It turns out Big Friendly Giant (Academy Award winner Mark Rylance animated with motion-capture technology) lives up to his name. He brings her to his home, feeds her and gives her a change of clothes before showing her his collection of dreams. He also protects her from the other giants who want to eat her. For Spielberg, the release of the film is bittersweet. Melissa Mathison, who had written "E.T.," adapted Dahl's book, but sadly died last year. There is an acknowledgement in the credits: For Our Melissa. Spielberg returns to the family-friendly fantasy genre after several years of making mostly dramas geared for adults. He spoke at a tony Hollywood hotel about his new film, and the day his father turned up on set. Q: It looked like "BFG" was a lot of fun to make. Spielberg: It was. We could not have made the movie the way you saw the film even five years ago. Not even five years ago. We wouldn't have been able to get a virtual performance, where you actually can feel the emotion from the character five years ago. Things have really evolved to a point where I really believe, and it's not just, everybody says, "Oh, it's the eyes." It's not the eyes. It's not the eyes. It's every single part of the emotional contours of bodily expression, of facial expression, of the vocalizations. Capturing Mark and trying to preserve the magic that he gave Ruby and us every day when they were actually performing their roles, transposing that on to an animated character, could not have been possible in this way five years ago. We would have only been able to capture 50 percent of what Mark was giving us. Now we have I think 95 percent of what Mark gave us. Q: How about finding your 10-year-old star? How did you find this youngster who just seems so comfortable on screen? Spielberg: When I first met Ruby the first thing I realized was she's comfortable in her own skin. Very. She's very confident and she has a tremendous heart. She puts so much love and she puts so much interest out there into the world. She was more interested in asking questions than answering my questions. It was her questions that scooped my questions. We interviewed 300-400 girls in every English-speaking country in the world. We found Ruby at the very, very end of the casting process. (Casting director) Nina Gold found Ruby in Manchester, England. Ruby came in and did a reading and I had seen many, many young girls between the ages of 8 and 11, sometimes 12. We went as old as 12, just in our search. I was shooting "Bridge of Spies" and I was in Berlin when I saw Ruby's test. I suddenly forgot I was making "Bridge of Spies" and even forgot that Mark Rylance, who was in "Bridge of Spies" and who was already cast as the BFG, I totally forgot that. All I focused on was, "Can you fly her to Berlin, like tomorrow? I need to meet this young actress." She came out with her dad, who I also put in the movie because her dad's a wonderful actor. I didn't even know that until I met him. Her dad was the one that ushered BFG into the Queen's corridor, going down the corridor, using nautical terms like "full stop," "hard to port," "watch out," "priceless antiques." That's her dad. I was very lucky to meet Ruby. Q: There seems to be a synergy here that the book came out in '82 and "E.T." came out in '82 and these are very similar themes of young people and interesting creatures. Is the audience different from that '82 audience now, or is the way you make films any different from that time? Spielberg: I think the films are a lot different from the way I was making films, because I'm a lot different than I was in 1982. The one thing that doesn't change is when I can find a good story and the story tells me what it needs, as opposed to me overruling all the values of the story to somehow impose a kind of 69-year-old maturity on to a piece that needed more of a kid than an adult. I really feel that I've always, a book like "The BFG" or any other movie I see that has young values can just bring the memories of what it was like being a kid right back to me in a flash, like it can anybody sitting around the table. You can get your childhood back in a millisecond. I don't compare this movie to "E.T." The only real valid comparison for me is that Melissa Mathison, who wrote "E.T.", also adapted "The BFG" and wrote this. There are a lot of opposites about "The BFG" and "E.T.," especially in scale. All the kids were E.T.'s giants. There are a lot of interesting opposites, but I don't make the same comparisons that a lot of the people who were very favorably comparing it to "E.T." coming out of Cannes made. When I started reading the stuff coming out of Cannes I didn't agree with it 100 percent that they're similar stories, but people are free to interpret any way they wish. Q: How much fun is it for you to play in the animated world, and did you have a scene that was your favorite to direct? Spielberg: We got through the whizzpopper. Barely got through it. For one thing, Mark had to be put on wires and he had to be jerked into the air every time he whizzpops. Mark loved it. He had never made a movie like this before, needless to say. He does mainly stage plays. He's been in some rigs in theater, but he's never been pulled into the air with an off camera, whizzpopping sound effect before. I think Mark said, hey, if movies are going to be like this every time, I think I'll make more movies now. He had a great time. It was hard to get him through a day without laughing our heads off, because for one thing you have to understand that Ruby and Mark are working in a big, big, white space called a motion capture volume. The sets are all made of wire. Ruby is on huge sets to be able to reduce her in scale. There's huge dream jars, and the table is humongous. Mark is on a scissor lift 20 feet above Ruby, looking down, so they can make eye contact. My father came on to the set when we were shooting it last summer. He looked around and he saw Mark on the scissor lift and he saw Ruby on this big, oversized set and he said, "Hey Steve, come here." I came over to my dad he's 99 years old and he said, "Say, what kind of a movie are you making, anyway?" He saw it last week and he said, "I understand what you did now." Q: Any idea what it's going to be like to make an "Indiana Jones" movie without George Lucas' input? Spielberg: George will be inputting. George is going to be an executive producer on it with me. I would never make an Indiana Jones film without George Lucas. That would be insane. By the way, George Lucas' fingerprints are on "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," because that movie is an homage to Episode 4, 5, and 6. A complete homage, so George Lucas is all over "The Force Awakens," lest we ever forget that. Q: What else is going to be in the new "Indiana Jones" movie? Spielberg: I can't tell you that now. We'll be back here sitting around in 2019 talking about it. I'm doing "Ready Player One" next. I start shooting a week from today. The Dream Sequence, by Knoxville-based company Hologram Electronics, packs multiple effect punches for guitarists and other musicians. SHARE By Randall Brown of the Knoxville News Sentinel My first guitar instructor was the late Alan "Mojo Al" Owrutsky, a longtime fixture on the area blues scene until his death in 2014. He was an interesting cat. He went to high school with The Ramones. Fresh Picked, his bluegrass band, played a regular gig at the 1982 World's Fair. His New York personality stood out in the sleepy southern Lenoir City of the 1980s, where he ran a music shop. Owrutsky sold me my first guitar effect, an Electro-Harmonix Muff Fuzz. It gave my little practice rig the sound of a giant wall of amplifiers. Many similar effects exist today, but the vintage Muff Fuzz is a collector's item. I by-golly wish I could find the one I had. To make up for the lost treasure, I have several of the company's latest pedals and I've ended up on a first-name basis with their digital marketing guy. Ryan Schaefer and Jason Campbell, interesting cats of Knoxville-based Hologram Electronics, might have created their own future collector's item for effect enthusiasts: a multiple-duty device called the Dream Sequence. Schaefer fronts the band Royal Bangs, and Campbell was also a member for a while. Sonic experiments in recording sessions led them to design their own device. "With Royal Bangs, we are always chasing after really interesting sounds for our records and live shows," he says. "I really like the process of combining effects pedals and software effects in the studio to create unusual sounds. We rely pretty heavily on a laptop to reproduce those sounds live, but integrating a computer into a live rig is complex and expensive. Jason and I figured it might be interesting to see if we could take some of the weird sounds we could create on the computer and package them into an effects pedal that would be fun and intuitive to use." While both have musical backgrounds, they had to teach themselves the technical aspects of pedal design. "It took us about two years to develop the hardware and software skills necessary to make something we were happy with," says Schaefer. They explored several concepts, but got most excited by the challenge of blending of a sequencer, pitch shifter, sampler and overdrive. "It brings together some tools traditionally only available to synth players to allow for the creation of new sounds for the guitar and other instruments," says Schaefer. "We figured if we could make a piece of hardware that could do what the Dream Sequence does, the other designs would be easier. In retrospect, that was kind of nuts. If two years ago someone had told us how difficult it would actually turn out to be, we probably wouldn't have even started!" The pedal can give a guitarist the sound of a 1970s synthesizer; a tremolo; droning ambient effects; and more. Players can create their own sounds and save them to call up later. It can also connect to a computer for even more customization. "A lot of musicians especially guitarists are put off by the omnipresence of LCD screens and menus that come along with advances in music technology. We tried to make something that felt friendly, more musically intuitive," says Schaefer. "The Dream Sequence is purposefully designed to evoke late-70s/early-80s synthesizers or computers, like something that would have been gathering dust in the corner of the computer lab when we were kids." The design and manufacturing of the Dream Sequence was a labor of love for the team, but their creation has resonated with the musical world. They build in batches of 50, and each batch sells out within hours. They recently hired Aaron Fenner and Blake Cass to help meet demand. "We were completely surprised by how popular it has been," says Schaefer. "We spent so long developing the pedal honestly just hoping it would work that we didn't think much about marketing it or selling it. Our friends at Mistakist helped us make a great video to show it off, and things have been really fun since then. We work pretty long, crazy hours every week, but it's been a blast so far." Hologram hopes to release a new pedal design before the end of the year. To check out the Dream Sequence, visit their site at hologramelectronics.com. --- Randall's picks Crisp sculpture An exhibit of sculpture by Ty Crisp will open 5-9 p.m. Friday at The Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay St. The work will be on display throughout July in the Balcony Gallery. Crisp's background in carpentry and cabinetry informs his approach of combining elements from farms, attics, sawmills and sheds into art that speaks to the "music and mythology of Appalachia." For more info on the artist, visit www.reelfootstudio.com. For information on this exhibit and others, contact the Arts & Culture Alliance at 865-523-7543 or visit www.knoxalliance.com. Cousins' comedy First Friday Comedy will feature visiting comedians Wayne Cousins of South Carolina and Grace Holtz of Chattanooga 7-9 p.m. at Saw Works Brewing Company, 708 E. Depot Ave. Knoxville's own Sean Simoneau, Jake James and Daniel Ryan Wade will also perform. Admission is free. Delicious food from one of Knoxville's favorite food trucks will be available. Studs of Steel I couldn't determine if any of the performers are (1) magic or (2) named Mike, but the Studs of Steel Live Male Revue Show will hit the stage at 10 p.m. Friday at The Concourse a The International, Blackstock Ave. Doors open at 9 p.m.; ages 18 and older will be admitted. Valid, state-issued photo IDs will be required for entry. Admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the door. For info, visit internationalknox.com. Band-names FTW A flurry of choice band names dominates a particular venue for this weekend. Pilot Light, 106 E. Jackson Ave., in the Old City, will host Nots and Wyld Stallyns at 10 p.m. Friday; Nihilist Cheerleader at 10 p.m. Saturday; and Wizard Rifle at 9:30 p.m. Sunday. For info, visit www.thepilotlight.com. Band-names FTW 2 The Bath Salt Zombies will make the water feel special at 10 p.m. at Preservation Pub, 28 Market Square. The band's mix of originals and covers has been described as grunge grass, carnival folk rock and hippie pirate music. I want to call it Americana party music. See what you think about it at www.thebathsaltzombies.com. By Kristi L. Nelson of the Knoxville News Sentinel ABINGDON, Va. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced five new telemedicine grants Thursday to organizations providing drug abuse treatment in rural central Appalachia including one Tennessee agency. Vilsack made the announcement while speaking at a public forum on opioid addiction Thursday afternoon at Virginia Highlands Community College. The five distance and learning telemedicine grants amount to nearly $1.4 million and include a $67,572 grant to the Carey Counseling Center in Northwest Tennessee. The money will expand six rural counseling centers with mental, behavioral and psychiatric care services and substance abuse treatment. In Kentucky, the USDA approved two applications of more than $720,000 to establish telemedicine networks to provide health, mental health and substance-abuse services. The Baptist Foundation of Corbin Inc. received $377,121 to connect clinical specialists to 10 school-based health centers and two primary-care sites. The Mountain Comprehensive Health Corp. in Whitesburg, Ky., received $343,600 for a telemedicine network in areas with economic and transportation challenges. In Virginia, $434,182 went to Carilion Medical Center to deliver health care in 12 rural southwest Virginia counties. A $153,082 grant to the rector and visitors of the University of Virginia will fund a system to provide access to care to 11 rural community care centers, including two mobile health units that will serve six counties. "Because addiction treatment is often out of reach for many in rural America, expanding access to telemedicine is an important step toward making sure rural communities have the tools they need to fight the opioid epidemic," Vilsack said. "The USDA is committed to provide the critical resources rural areas need to reduce the staggering increase in opioid overdose deaths that is driving up health-care costs and devastating communities." Vilsack's visit is the first of several planned around the country after President Barack Obama asked him to lead an interagency team on opioid abuse. Later this month, Vilsack's mission will take him to Missouri, the only state not using a statewide database to monitor opioid prescriptions, and Nevada, which has one of the highest drug overdose death rates in the Southwest. But it starts in Appalachia, where the region has been overwhelmed with growing numbers of addicts and limited resources to help them. Between 2013-2014, the number of drug overdose deaths in Virginia increased 14.7 percent, from 854 to 980. In the same time period, Tennessee's increased 7.7 percent but it was already a higher number: 1,187 Tennesseans died from drug overdoes in 2013, and 1,269 in 2014. Nationwide, just more than 4 percent of the population nearly 10 million adults reported misusing prescription opioids in 2012-2013. Tennessee's overall rate is slightly higher, but in some rural counties, it's significantly higher. Vilsack cites various reasons this could be, including a high number of jobs that require heavy manual labor, thus putting workers more at risk for injury that could result in a painkiller prescription. But while around 17 percent of those addicted to opioids get prescriptions from a doctor, more than half get pills free from family or frees. Vilsack said high unemployment rates and being mired in poverty can make the drugs more attractive to those looking for escape. "Many people believe their tomorrow is not going to be better than their today," he said. Vilsack intends his tour to raise awareness about the opiate abuse epidemic, steps being taken to address it, and what measures states could implement to fight the problem. He also wants to get the word out about insurance parity: that insurance plans available on the Affordable Care Exchange and through Medicaid expansion, in those states that have expanded, must by law provide the same type of coverage for mental health and substance abuse services as for medical treatments. He also hopes to gather information to help lawmakers understand the depth of the problem and possible solutions. Obama is urging Congress to put $1.1 billion into increasing access to substance abuse treatment which could translate into up to $24 million over two years for Tennessee to expand access to treatment for opioid use disorders. The town halls are "giving folks the opportunity to tell us what is it we don't know that we should," Vilsack said. "It's not necessarily a situation where we want people to tell us how tragic this is. We get that. It's what's working out there that we don't know about. Is there a creative solution that someone in a small town has come up with that they know about but nobody else does? "This is an opportunity to collect that information." More details as they develop online and in Friday's News Sentinel. SHARE The Walmart Foundation has begun accepting grant applications to its State Giving Program, but time is running out for eligible East Tennessee nonprofits. Every year the foundation awards between $25,000 and $200,000 to Tennessee organizations that address areas of need among underserved populations. Tennessee nonprofit organizations can apply for grants to support programs focused on hunger relief and healthy eating, career opportunity, disaster preparedness and community engagement. The deadline to submit grant requests is 11:50 p.m. Friday. "At Walmart, our mission is to create opportunities so people can live better," Matt Cody, a Memphis Walmart store manager, said in a news release. "In addition to the thousands of community service hours our associates perform and the in-kind donations that are spread throughout the communities we serve, these grants allow us to help local nonprofit organizations fulfill their mission and continue on their path of service." Examples of programs that are eligible include food pantries, backpack programs, nutrition education programming, job training and placement programs, preparedness equipment and disaster preparedness awareness programs, education programs, health care access, shelters and other human service programs. Grant submissions are accepted online only at www.walmartfoundation.org/stategiving. In 2015, Walmart stores, Sam's Clubs, and the Walmart Foundation awarded $35.7 million in cash and in-kind donations to Tennessee charities, including 23 million pounds of food donated to local food banks, which is the equivalent of 19 million meals. By Kristi L. Nelson of the Knoxville News Sentinel ABINGDON, Va. Jaculyn Hanrahan has watched the opioid epidemic devastate her adopted home county. "They targeted our region," said Hanrahan, a Catholic sister with the Congregation of Notre Dame. "It changed the face of Appalachia." For more than 30 years, Hanrahan has worked in and around Lee County at the westernmost tip of Virginia a county where tobacco and coal were kings, their decline taking jobs and prosperity. More than 20 percent of Lee County's 25,500 residents live below the federal poverty guideline. Into this void came opioid drugs, said Hanrahan: first prescription painkillers, later cheaper heroin. "The addiction issue that started in our area has now affected three generations," she said. On Thursday, she drove more than an hour to Virginia Highlands Community College in Abingdon to hear U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack talk about "creative" ways to fight the epidemic. She wanted to see if what he said matched up with what she sees daily in her own community. Thursday's public town hall meeting on the opioid epidemic, the first of several Vilsack plans around the country, drew about 200 attendees. He set it in a town that nearly straddles the Tennessee-Virginia border, inviting Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe to join him in talking about the "aggressive" approaches both states have taken. Vilsack's interest is professional as well as personal. President Barack Obama has asked him to lead an interagency team on opioid abuse, collecting ideas to combat the nationwide scourge that has its greatest impact in the rural areas his office has traditionally served. And the audience fell silent Thursday as Vilsack spoke briefly of dealing with his own mother's alcohol and drug addiction issues, which started when he was a child. Among Vilsack's objectives is promoting Obama's call for Congress to direct $1.1 billion toward increasing access to substance abuse treatment which could translate into up to $24 million over two years for Tennessee. A report released earlier this year by the Tennessee Association of Mental Health Organizations said 4 percent of Tennessee adults who needed addiction treatment in 2014 received services, with the wait longest in East Tennessee. Vilsack asked the governors what they'd do with additional federal funding. Haslam said he'd put it toward treatment, including counseling, though "we're not going to treat our way out of this problem, I don't think," he said. McAuliffe wants more drug courts in Virginia. It costs the state $18,000 to divert a person through drug court to treatment, he said, compared to $47,733 to send one to prison, where he said the recidivism rates for addicts are three times higher than those who go through drug court. Tennessee has 36 adult drug courts; another six serve juveniles and families. McAuliffe said he'd also provide more education in schools. "We have got to get young people, early on, to understand the ramifications of drug use," he said. Haslam praised the effectiveness of Tennessee's prescription drug monitoring system Virginia has a similar system in place and the fact that the state increased opportunities to dispose of unused prescription drugs. In Tennessee, pharmacies can collect them, and the Highway Patrol has installed lockboxes for collection. McAuliffe talked about new Virginia laws putting the drug naloxone, which can reverse the effects of opioid drug overdose, into the hands of all first responders, and the law also protects from liability anyone who uses the drug to help someone overdosing. In Virginia, anyone can obtain naloxone without a prescription. Even so, addiction continues to thrive. Between 2013-2014, the number of drug overdose deaths in Virginia increased 14.7 percent, from 854 to 980. In the same time period, Tennessee's increased 7.7 percent but it was already a higher number: 1,187 Tennesseans died from drug overdoes in 2013, and 1,269 in 2014. Nationwide, just more than 4 percent of the population nearly 10 million adults reported misusing prescription opioids in 2012-2013. Tennessee's overall rate is slightly higher, but in some rural counties, it's significantly higher. Nationwide naloxone access and monitoring of prescriptions are goals of Vilsack's team, along with increasing supportive housing for people in recovery. Vilsack said the USDA is looking at designating some of its own HUD housing for this purpose. "Why is it so difficult to get Medicaid expanded?" Vilsack asked the Republican Tennessee and Democratic Virginia governors. Neither state has passed Medicaid expansion to provide health insurance to people who make too much money for traditional Medicaid but not enough to qualify for subsidies to buy insurance policies on the federal marketplace. "Politics" was the short answer; both governors have advocated for waiver plans they said protected their states from financial risk, but failed to get them passed. Vilsack said later he'd continue to press states on Medicaid expansion, in part because the law now requires parity, with Medicaid covering mental-health and substance-abuse treatments at the same rate as medical procedures. "This could really help states deal with this issue," he said. He also announced nearly $1.4 million in grant money to fund five telemedicine projects in Tennessee, Kentucky and Virginia to help rural areas provide mental, behavioral and substance-abuse treatment on a larger scale. "Because addiction treatment is often out of reach for many in rural America, expanding access to telemedicine is an important step toward making sure rural communities have the tools they need to fight the opioid epidemic," Vilsack said. The hourlong governors' discussion was followed by panelists from government and nonprofit agencies discussing resources in Appalachia. Vilsack closed the forum by reading and discussing a few of the many comment cards audience members filled out. His staffers will later read and organize every one, he said, and report back to him. "I take back with me a number of ideas," Vilsack said. "There are lives to be saved, and there are futures to be guaranteed." Hanrahan said what she heard at the forum hit home; she thought addressing pockets of corruption in law enforcement was the only missing issue. "This is a great model," she said, "just (Vilsack) coming and listening." SHARE This past May roughly 63,000 students graduated from high schools in Tennessee. More than a quarter of them were African-American or Latino, and according to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, only about half of them will enroll in college this fall. Of those who enroll, less than half will finish college within six years. Despite rising standards and remarkable gains in graduation rates, Tennessee continues to leave too many students behind. Our stubborn gaps in K-12 achievement and college readiness are rooted in a long legacy of inequitable access to quality teachers, rigorous expectations and coursework, and funding and resources. As leaders of the Tennessee Educational Equity Coalition, we are committed to finding meaningful policy solutions to these complex issues. Our statewide coalition of more than 40 civil rights and education organizations brings tremendous urgency to this effort, and we are exercising our collective voice to affect change for students in Tennessee. Our current focus is the Every Student Succeeds Act, or ESSA, which provides Tennessee with a historic opportunity to rewrite the rules on how we define, monitor and assess student achievement and school performance. We seek solutions, and are fortunate to engage with the Tennessee State Department of Education on the many facets of the law. This week marked an important step for our Equity Coalition as we hosted Secretary of Education John King for an ESSA Roundtable at Conexion Americas in Nashville. Our goal was to share our priorities with King and to highlight factors that will affect outcomes for all students. First, we recognize that teachers are the most important in-school factor in determining student success. Students of color or those learning English often need rigorous academic support. In Tennessee, academically advanced students are more likely to have a highly effective teacher than students of color or those living in poverty. This fundamental inequality reinforces disparities in outcomes, and we believe King must push the Tennessee Department of Education to set concrete targets and a timeline to implement its Teacher Equity Plan. Second, we believe strong accountability systems focus attention and resources on all students. Accountability under ESSA should focus on achievement of students at all performance levels, not just those at the bottom. However, we must pay attention and take action when subgroups of students are chronically low performing. We urge King to require Tennessee to take prompt, meaningful action whenever a school is underperforming, and to provide guidance on how districts can measure and address resource inequities in schools. We believe these resources must include equitable funding, effective teachers and leaders, and access to college preparatory courses. Finally, ESSA now requires Tennessee to set goals for, assess and report on the progress of English learners in reaching proficiency. Immigrant families and advocates have long sought these changes. We will ask the secretary to go further and set a maximum of five years for students to reach proficiency, and to provide guidance on interventions for schools with long-term EL students. Our Equity Coalition was honored to host King this week and we look forward to working alongside educators and advocates from all corners of Tennessee to ensure that every graduate is fully prepared to succeed in college and beyond. SHARE Gratitude is good for people. It is as nutritious for the soul as are love and joy. Gratitude is good for entire nations. In this country, there once was a real sense of gratitude to George Washington for having saved us from British tyranny. On his birthday, there were pageants and celebrations recalling the life of the "father of our country." The country was grateful for its having been set free. In Europe this year, there are expressions of gratitude for another person who helped set free men and women's minds from a tyranny that kept them from thinking for themselves. The Church dominated people's lives and even kept them from reading the Bible because it was not available in everyday language. The Dutch scholar, educator, theologian and philosopher Desiderius Erasmus (1466-1536) who brought the "New Learning" to the people of Europe is being celebrated in various countries this year, and in this country at Houston Baptist University in Texas. His "New Greek Testament" is 500 years old and is celebrated as having helped launch the Protestant Reformation. In 2011, there were celebrations of the 500th birthday of his work "Adagia," which contained selections of writings from classical thinkers such as Plato. This was the New Learning that Europeans felt liberated their minds to think for themselves. To be liberated from tyranny over mind or person is truly something to be grateful for. One could wish that we could go back to pageants and parades to express gratitude. Gratitude is good for our souls and can give us courage to meet the problems we have. Virginia M. Jones, Oak Ridge Arbys Restaurant Group, Inc. acquires 19 restaurants from Knoxville franchisee KNOXVILLE Arbys Restaurant Group, Inc. (ARG), parent company of the franchisor of the Arbys brand, has announced the acquisition of all 19 Arbys restaurants in the Knoxville area previously operated by Arbys franchisee T.G.J. & Co., Inc. Our family has been a part of the Knoxville business community for almost five decades. We have employed tens of thousands of great East Tennesseans who have been the basis for our success and have been further blessed with amazing support from the many more thousands of loyal guests whom weve had the pleasure of serving, said Tom Johnson, III, Co-Owner, T. G. J. & Co., Inc. Our family is looking forward to remaining actively involved in the Knoxville community and are pleased that ARG is committed to delivering the same great experience our patrons in Knoxville and the surrounding areas have grown to know and love. Tom Johnson, Jr. began the family-owned business when he opened his first Arbys restaurant on May 20, 1968 at 6903 Kingston Pike Road in Knoxville. Johnson was one of Arbys early franchisees and an original board member of ARCOP, Arbys supply chain co-operative. His son, Johnson III, was active as an Arbys Franchise Association (AFA) Board member for many years. T.G.J. & Co. and the Johnsons have been outstanding operators and members of the Arbys family for nearly 50 years, said Paul Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Arbys Restaurant Group, Inc. (ARG) We are proud to become the stewards of this great business several generations of the Johnson family have worked so hard to build. We will deliver a seamless transition and continue Inspiring Smiles Through Delicious Experiences among Arbys loyal guests in the Knoxville area. It has been an honor to be able to experience and get to be a part of continuing what my grandfather started almost 50 years ago, said Carrie Gandy, Chief Financial Officer, T. G. J. & Co., Inc. and daughter of Johnson, III. What I learned from him is that we are not just in the roast beef business, we are in the people business. The employees in the restaurants serving our guests everyday are the ones who have made us successful. We cherish each one of them and they will always be considered a part of our family. Arbys remains on track with its goal to surpass $4 billion in total system-wide same-store sales (SSS) by the end of 2018. The Brand has achieved 22 consecutive quarters of SSS growth and 13 consecutive quarters of industry outperformance. Arbys, founded in 1964, is the first nationally franchised sandwich restaurant brand, with more than 3,300 restaurants worldwide. The Arbys brand purpose is Inspiring Smiles Through Delicious Experiences. Arbys restaurants feature Fast Crafted service, a unique blend of quick-serve speed and value combined with the quality and made-for-you care of fast casual. Arbys Restaurant Group, Inc. is the parent company of the franchisor of the Arbys brand and is headquartered in Atlanta, Ga. Visit Arbys.com for more information. With the current growth and momentum of the Brand, Arbys is actively seeking new franchisees. To learn more about available markets and requirements, visit DiscoverArbys.com. Published June 30, 2016 U.S. Cellular has new business sales executive for East Tennessee KNOXVILLE U.S. Cellular has named Ashley Swift as business sales executive for East Tennessee. Swift began her career with U.S. Cellular in 2005 as a retail wireless consultant. She was promoted into leadership in 2008 and to store manager in 2010. She worked as a store manager for six years. Ashley has a proven track record of managing teams to accomplish sales goals and increase operational efficiency, said Chris Stokes, business area sales manager for U.S. Cellular in Tennessee. She shows great enthusiasm for the wireless industry, and were excited to have her as part of the business team. In her new role, Swift will focus on small business customers with 21 to 50 phone lines and other small business solutions. I am extremely excited about this next step in my career with U.S. Cellular, Swift said. I have loved working with customers in East Tennessee for the last six years, and I look forward to working with Tennessee businesses. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or uscellular.com. Published June 30, 2016 Corker: Obama administration ISIS strategy not adequate to threat facing U.S. JUNE 29, 2016 at 10:43 p.m. I dont see how the ISIS coalition can be successful while the Syrian civil war continues - Senator Bob Corker U.S. Senator Bob Corker at hearing on global efforts to defeat ISIS. WASHINGTON During a hearing today on global efforts to defeat ISIS, U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed concern that the Obama administrations strategy is not adequate to the threat facing the United States from the terrorist group. I fear that in spite of continued attacks on our homeland, our military response to ISIS does not adequately reflect the direct nature of this threat to the United States, said Corker. I think many of us grow frustrated when the administrations optimistic rhetoric often does not match the results. Corker also questioned the administrations commitment to a diplomatic resolution for the Syrian civil war that would require a transition from the Assad regime, an outcome he cited as central to the coalitions military effort to defeat ISIS. I dont see how the ISIS coalition can be successful while the Syrian civil war continues, said Corker. This administration has declared that Assad must go, but it certainly appears as if that position is changing or has changed. I dont see how whats left of the political process possibly leads to Assads departure. The committee heard testimony today from Brett McGurk, Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIL. His testimony came two weeks after CIA Director John Brennan issued a stark warning that despite ISIS suffering territorial losses, the administrations efforts have not reduced the groups terrorism capability and global reach. This assessment contrasts with more optimistic statements delivered recently from President Obama. Published June 29, 2016 X Yorum Yazma Sozlesmesi Sayfamzn takipcileri suc teskil edecek, yasal olarak takip gerektirecek,hakaret ve kufur iceren, asaglayc, kucuk dusurucu, kaba, ahlaka aykr, mustehcen, toplumca genel olarak kabul gormus kurallara aykr, kisilik haklarna zarar verici ya da benzeri niteliklerde hicbir yorumu bu web sitesinin hicbir sayfasnda paylasamazlar. Bu tur iceriklerden dogan her turlu mali, hukuki, cezai, idari sorumluluk yorumu gonderen takipciye aittir. KONHABER yaplan yorumlar arasndan uygun gormediklerini herhangi bir gerekce belirtmeksizin yaynlamama veya yayndan kaldrma hakkna sahiptir. Konhaber basta yukarda saylan hususlar olmaz uzere kanun hukumlerine aykrlk gerekcesi ile her turlu adli makam tarafndan baslatlan sorusturma kapsamnda kendisinden Ceza Muhakemesi Kanununun 332.maddesi dogrultusunda istenilen yorum yapan takipcilerine ait ip bilgilerini ve yapms oldugu yorumlar paylasabilecegini beyan eder Saudi Arabia's English daily Arab News introduces the ongoing negotiations between POSCO E&C and the Saudi government over construction projects worth $2.92 billion in the capital, Riyadh, and Ghazlan in the eastern part of the country, Thursday. / Courtesy of POSCO E&C By Jhoo Dong-chan POSCO Engineering & Construction (E&C), which is already participating in 17 megaprojects in Saudi Arabia, is negotiating another two multitrillion won projects with the government there, a company official said Thursday. The projects include the construction of a hotel in the capital, Riyadh, and the Ghazlan Power Plant in the east region of the country, worth $2.92 billion (3.4 trillion won) in total. POSCO sold a 38 percent stake of its construction unit, POSCO E&C, to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) for $1.08 billion in June last year. In December, POSCO E&C then established POSCO E&C Saudi Arabia (PECSA) jointly with PIF in a bid to advance into the Middle Eastern country's construction market including civil engineering, housing and infrastructure projects. POSCO E&C has since clinched a total of 17 major contracts in the Saudi Vision 2030 Project, a long-term state project to reduce its dependency on oil exports and diversify national income sources. The project was introduced in April last year, and is expected to continue until 2030. "We look into various ways to contribute to Saudi's Vision 2030 Project with our construction technology," POSCO E&C President and CEO Han Chan-kun said during an interview with the English daily Arab News. "Most partnerships are profit-purposed one-time projects. But the partnership with PIF is different since the cooperative relationship will be a win-win for mutual growth. POSCO E&C will share its technologies, suggesting a total solution in construction and contributing to the country's job market. Our mission in Saudi Arabia will also contribute greatly to the construction market in the Gulf Cooperation Council region." POSCO E&C recently started another construction project in Latin America last month, on a 380 megawatt combined cycle power plant along with a 180,000-cubic-meter liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tank in Colon, which lies near the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal about 70km north of Panama City. The projects cost about $650 million, with the plant expected to be completed by July 2018 and the LNG tank in May 2019. The company became the first Korean company to enter Latin America's energy plant market in 2006, with the construction of a coal-fired power plant in Chile. By Jhoo Dong-chan A group of Korean consumers, who bought Volkswagen vehicles with emissions software giving fraudulent readings, submitted a complaint with the government, demanding full refunds or the ability to exchange their cars. But Audi Volkswagen Korea, the German automaker's local unit in Korea, made it clear that it does not have any plans to compensate Korean consumers as it has yet to be convicted of any crime under Korean law. According to the Barun Law firm on Thursday, which represents a total of 4,430 Volkswagen consumers, it filed the complaint with the Ministry of Environment under the Clean Air Conservation Act. The consumers had previously submitted the same complaint only to be rejected by the government because the ministry said it is a matter of recall, not an issue of full refunds or exchanging cars. The consumers' move followed the automaker's recent announcement that in the United States it will carry out a $15.3 billion (17.75 trillion won) compensation plan that includes paying each consumer a maximum of $10,000. A total of 475,000 U.S. consumers are expected to receive the money. Separate from the plan above, the German automaker decided to pay the U.S. Federal and California State Governments $4.7 billion for helping fund their emissions reduction programs. In Korea, however, the German automaker is expected to only carry out a recall program along with a 10 billion won donation. "Korea has a different set of environmental regulations along with penalty rules. It is natural for us to have a different set of consumer plans," said an Audi Volkswagen Korean official. "Volkswagen won't carry out any compensation plan before being convicted in court." Consumers are outraged. "I am disappointed by Volkswagen's discriminating measures," said a Volkswagen Tiguan SUV owner surnamed Choi. "The government should come up with tougher measures against unethical acts by automakers." The litigant group said it will charge the Ministry of Environment with dereliction of duty if it rejects their demands once again. An industry insider blames consumers' blind faith in foreign auto brands as another reason for Volkswagen's arrogant attitude in sales. "Despite the emissions scandal, Volkswagen's sales are still strong in Korea. If such irregularities were reflected in their sales, their reaction would be different," he said. According to market data, Volkswagen suffered a sales loss in October last year after the scandal came to the surface but retook the No. 1 position in sales among foreign auto brands in November as they carried out a discount promotion. By Yoon Ja-young Retail outlet chain Home plus and liquor manufacturer HiteJinro turned out to be doing poorly in sharing growth with small suppliers. Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors as well as POSCO, SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus, meanwhile, were evaluated as the best in terms of efforts to achieve win-win growth with small suppliers. The Korea Commission for Corporate Partnership (KCCP) announced their 2015 shared growth index, Thursday, assessing efforts for co-prosperity by 133 conglomerates. The index was introduced in 2011, to promote mutual growth of conglomerates and their small suppliers in Korea. Twenty-five companies were evaluated as "excellent" this year. Samsung Electronics has been rated "excellent" for five consecutive years, while SK Telecom and SK Global Chemical were rated so for four years in a row. Kia Motors, Coway and Hyundai Motor were rated excellent for three consecutive years. Samsung Display, Samsung SDS, Doosan Heavy Industries, Hyundai Steel, CJ CheilJedang, LG Chem, LG CNS, and SK were also rated as "excellent." While the survey on small companies showed that they think the co-prosperity efforts by conglomerates have improved in general, 21 companies were rated as "ordinary," which is the lowest rating. Among those relatively poor in co-prosperity efforts were Homeplus, Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering, Orion, Siemens, Kolon Industries, HiteJinro and Korea Yakult. By industries, win-win efforts were most notable in IT, with six out of seven firms in the sector rated as "excellent." Department stores and home shopping companies also got better evaluations compared with the previous year, while retail outlets had poor scores. KCCP Chairman Ahn Choong-young said an atmosphere of seeking win-win growth between conglomerates and small businesses is crucial. "With the global economy slowing down, Korea is chased after by many countries. However, as the country is failing to recover its competitive edge in exports, its growth potential is plunging," he said. "There is hope as Korea is trying to solve the problem in its corporate ecosystem through mutual growth." He advised that the technology and overseas networks of conglomerates can create synergy with the flexibility and creativity of small- and medium-sized firms, which will lead to new investments by conglomerates and a more competitive edge for small players. By Nam Hyun-woo Finance Minister Yoo Il-ho refuted remarks by U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump that the free trade agreement between Korea and the United States (KORUS FTA) undermines the American economy. Minister Yoo made his remarks a day after Trump lambasted the KORUS FTA as "a job-killing deal" and said the deal "doubles our trade deficit with Korea and will destroy nearly 100,000 American jobs." Yoo also said joining the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) is "very important" for countries in the Pacific region, a stance in stark contrast with Trump's pledge that he will pull the U.S. out of the 12-nation body if he is elected. "That will not help any people in the world," Yoo said during an American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM Korea) General Membership Meeting. Mercedes-Benz Korea CEO Dimitris Psillakis introduces the German automaker's new E-Class sedan at a media preview event at Wangsan Marina, last month. / Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz By Jhoo Dong-chan Mercedes Benz Korea officially launched the all-new E-Class, fully redesigned after seven years with a distinct style, enhanced efficiency and technological innovations. The model has set the standard for the mid-size premium business sedan market for many years, but the 10th-generation premium vehicle offers another direction in the market not only with its characteristic design but also with its innovative autonomous safety technology. Exterior One of the main attractions behind the E-Class' great success has been its design. And the new E-Class' design appears to be rather evolutionary than revolutionary. Inherited from its predecessor, the E-Class does not betray its legacy in exterior design, maintaining resemblance to other generations in a side by side comparison. It features a slick-designed hood and a curved coupe-styled roofline that leads to muscle-looking shoulders. The new E-Class has become 45 millimeters longer in its length while the wheelbase is extended as well by 65 millimeters. The extension is reflected inside when it comes to rear passenger legroom. The new model comes with two different front face designs the Avantgarde and Exclusive. The Avantgarde model places Mercedes Benz's signature three-point star emblem into its head grille, creating a sporty impression in the front, while the Exclusive model erects the emblem over the hood to suggest luxury and a classic impression. Distinctive grille designs based on the model's two front face designs, V-shaped long hood line and large-size air intakes along with Multi-beam LED headlamps and chrome twin-tail pipe under full-LED taillights continue the German luxury automaker's 70-year design philosophy. Interior and Tech One noticeable feature a driver would find in the new E-Class is not one but the option of two 12.3-inch touchable screens one in the center dashboard and the other behind the steering wheel. A set of display screens, also called "Wide-Screen Cockpit Display," which is placed in the center dashboard, offers almost every type of information a driver would want to see while behind the wheel. The infotainment system can easily connect to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for smart phone integration. The E-Class also offers an optional massage function, called "Active Multicontour Seat," in the front seat, helping passengers remain comfortable even after long hours of driving. Mercedes Benz's technological innovation is also evident in various driving assistant options. The new model's so called "Driving Assistance Package Plus" option suggests various technology that includes "Drive Pilot" and "Parking Pilot" system along with safety features. Drive Pilot technology introduces a new level of adaptive cruise control that allows the driver to follow another vehicle at a pre-selected distance at speeds as fast as 210 kilometers per hour and steer itself around turns without the driver's intervention. The E-Class' ability to change lanes by itself is a joyful technology especially for inexperienced drivers. When the driver turns on the lane change signal, the intelligent E-Class will automatically calculate its distance to an upcoming car and help the driver change lanes safely. The E-Class also offers brake assist and a self-parking system, called "Parking Pilot," which can park the car in both parallel and perpendicular orientations. The function received great reviews from media on press day for the model's introduction last month. The E-Class has added safety features such as "Evasive Steering Assist," which adds steering torque when a driver performs an evasive maneuver. Another safety technology applied in the model is "PRE-SAFE impulse side" that uses the front seat side bolsters to move the driver or front seat passenger three inches closer to the center of the car to lessen the impact of a crash. Engine The new E-Class gasoline models mount an in-line 4-cylinder direct spray engine that can produce a maximum of 245 horsepower. The low-end torque engine emphasizes silence and fuel efficiency as well as minimizing carbon emissions. The E220d model mounts the next-generation V4 diesel engine that produces 194 horsepower, up 24 horsepower from the previous generation. All models of the E-Class feature the 9G-Tronic transmission that delivers more efficient driving dynamics while reducing its weight by 1 kilogram. The Eco Start/Stop is also included. The E-Class offers an "Air Body Control" option that enables a user to choose a drive mode among five suspension modes Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. Perspectives The E-Class has been regarded as one of the most important models in Mercedes-Benz's lineup because of its sales volume of more than 10 million cars worldwide since its introduction in 1993. Despite the new model's conservative changes in design, the all-new E-Class would be the most progressive generation in its history because the German automaker has really outdone itself by infusing autonomous-driving, safety, as well as infotainment features in the vehicle. The price range is also considered to be reasonable as it starts at 65.6 million won. The BMW 5 Series, the E-Class' history-long rival, was sold at 63 million to 119.2 million won last year in Korea. Imports of American cars in Korea more than tripled in four years, industry data showed Monday, a rise that could be attributable to the free trade deal between Seoul and Washington. The free trade deal went into effect in 2012, providing a competitive edge to U.S. carmakers. South Korea imported a total of 49,096 cars from the United States in 2015, up from 13,669 units in 2011, according to data provided by auto industry. Ford Sales and Service Korea, the local importer and distributor of U.S. automaker Ford Motor, sold 10,358 cars last year, up 147 percent from 2011 when it sold 4,184 units, according to data. The foreign vehicle market in Korea grew to 244,000 units from 105,000 over the cited period. Industry officials said the biggest factor behind the growth of sales of U.S. cars in Korea is competitive prices of American cars following the free trade agreement. In 2012, Korea lowered its tariffs on U.S. cars to 4 percent from 8 percent. South Korea fully lifted import tariffs on imported vehicles from the U.S. earlier this year, a move that could give a further boost to sales of U.S.cars in Korea. (Yonhap) The Jungle Book Raised from birth by a family of wolves, a human boy Mowgli (Neel Sethi) considers himself part of a community of animals. As a villainous tiger forces Mowgli to leave, he goes on an adventure into the jungle, meeting an array of interesting animals. Directed by John Favreau. Independence Day: Resurgence Two decades after the first Independence Day invasion, mankind is now faced with a larger fleet of aliens. In order to defend Earth, the international community develops a global defense program. Directed by Roland Emmerich. Familyhood Joo-yeon (Kim Hye-soo) is a successful actress feeling her life is empty, even though she seems to have everything she could hope for. Thinking that having a family would make her life complete, she announces in public that she is pregnant. Directed by Kim Tae-gon. The Hunt When gold is discovered in a remote mountain area, Dong-geun (Cho Jin-woong) heads to the mountain with a group of hunters. There they get involved in an accident. Ki-sung (Ahn Sung-ki) witnesses the scene and chases them. Directed by Lee Woo-chul. The Legend of Tarzan This film depicts the action-filled adventures of Tarzan (Alexander Skarsgard). Years after he has left the jungles of Africa, he has been invited back to the Congo. He hesitates to return, leaving his new life in the United States and his beloved wife Jane (Margot Robbie) behind. Directed by David Yates. Biddeford-Saco-OOB Courier The board earmarked $1.54 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds for the dredge, designed to keep channels open and supply sand to nourish eroding beaches up and down the York County coast and beyond. By Kwon Mee-yoo Artist Lee U-fan Artist Lee U-fan, who is in the middle of a forgery scandal of his works, reaffirmed his stance that none of the pieces in question are counterfeit. "An artist can know whether it is mine or not at sight," the artist, 80, said at a press conference at the Westin Chosun Seoul, Thursday. "The artist's breathing and rhythm are like fingerprints and impossible to copy. My works look simple, so it would stick out if it hadn't passed through my hands." Lee organized the media event to make his position clear after examining the suspected counterfeits at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency on Monday and Wednesday. Scientists of the National Forensic Service judged the 13 paintings confiscated from a gallery over suspicion of forgery all fake, but the artist rejected the results. "I could use different paints or brushes, so component analysis cannot tell whether it is mine or not," Lee said. He repeatedly said "I am the artist himself" throughout the press conference. Lee said the living artist's opinion should be given priority in authenticating an artwork and the police are putting the cart before the horse. "It is common sense honored the world over," Lee said. "The police ignored such a process, had the paintings appraised by third parties and even announced the authentication results before I saw them." From left, Son Ho-jun, Cha Seung-won, Yoo Hae-jin and Nam Joo-hyuk are seen in a scene from a "Three Meals a Day" episode in Gochang, North Jeolla Province, which is set to premier this Friday. / Courtesy of CJ E&M By Kim Jae-heun "Three Meals a Day," tvN's popular reality cooking show, begins a new season this time in Gochang County, North Jeolla Province to promote healthy cooking and the slow lifestyle. Last season was shot in Jeongseon County, Gangwon Province last year from May to September. "Many vegetables and fruits grown in Gochang will appear in our new episode," said the show's producer Lee Jin-ju during a press conference at Standford Hotel in Mapo-gu, Seoul. "If you find yourself interested in the show please try cooking at home with the ingredients. Our show is successful if people start to use organic ingredients after watching our series. The reality cooking show invites popular actors Cha Seung-won, Yoo Hae-jin, Son Ho-jun and Nam Joo-hyuk to stay in the countryside and cook using only ingredients they find on the local farms. The show aims to deliver a message on the importance of preparing meals and eating together as a family, which is often ignored in fast-moving modern cities. "We are trying to focus on the process of preparing the meals you would find in the countryside, which we believe is another fun part of watching the show. Meanwhile, the members of the cast will build a stronger fellowship among themselves through working together," Lee said. Actors Lee Seo-jin, Ok Taec-yeon and Kim Kwang-kyu appeared in the previous season's episodes in a fishing village to show off the picturesque scenery of Manjaedo Island in South Jeolla Province. For the Gochang series, the production crew plans on showing both the seaside and mountains of the town. Actor Cha's cooking skills are another interesting feature to watch as his unique seafood cooking style grabbed audiences in the episodes shot in the fishing village. This time the actor has to use ingredients grown in the fields and mountains. "When I told my wife I would do this show again, the first question she asked me was what kind of dishes will you make?' I think it will be the audience's common question as well," Cha said. "In the episodes at Gochang, the actors cooked food they wanted to eat at that time," said script writer Kim Dae-joo. "What Cha cooks in the episode is not commonly seen in ordinary life. They are his own recipes. However, if Cha has 100 different dishes he can cook, he can only make half of them in countryside because of the limitation of using available ingredients. So we decided to provide him some tools," said producer Na Young-seok. Na also added that not all the necessary ingredients are available to cook different dishes in Gochang although there are small fields near where they are shooting. Na allowed the actors to work part-time for local residents and earn money to shop for the necessary ingredients in nearby towns. "Of course we had the actors farm the crops for their part-time jobs as part of the entertaining segments of the show. But we used a documentary filming technique when shooting the actors working in the rice paddies, because rice is the main source of food for Koreans and it is important to show how rice is farmed," said Na. Three Meals a Day will premier at 9:45 p.m. this Friday. A weeping woman shows a picture of her late son at a press conference in front of the Ministry of National Defense building in Yongsan, Seoul, Aug. 6. She and other bereaved families called on the ministry to help restore the honor of soldiers who died from hazing while serving their mandatory military service. / Yonhap Activists urge military to uphold human rights By Park Ji-won, Chung Hyun-chae, Nam Hyun-woo Koreans are outraged over the death of an Army private first class, surnamed Yoon, who suffered brutal abuse and violence at the hands of his superiors. Yoon, who belonged to the Army's 28th Division, was brutally beaten by five senior soldiers, then put on an IV drip to recover only to be beaten again and endure more torture before his death in April. Ranking military officials and politicians have vowed to uphold soldiers' rights and prevent future tragedies by establishing a human rights council within the armed forces. For some men who have already completed their mandatory military service, however, Yoon's story came as no surprise. They have experienced, witnessed, or at least heard of similar cases. An office worker in Seoul, surnamed Lee, 32, finished his military service in 2007. His superiors subjected him to abuse too, he recalls. "I still don't understand why I was beaten," he said. Lee, then a private, was responsible for managing an ammunition depot. He worked with a sergeant, who was younger than him and constantly picked fights to remind Lee of his inferior rank. "I'm younger than you," the sergeant repeatedly pointed out to Lee. "Is that a problem for you?" The sergeant often kicked Lee in the stomach and punched him in the neck when they were alone in the depot. "I never said anything about his age, but he picked fights with me and repeatedly attacked me," Lee said. Lee required medical treatment for his injuries, but the sergeant bullied him into remaining silent about how he got his bruises and why he was bleeding. The assaults continued until the sergeant was discharged. "If I ever met him again, I would definitely have him killed," Lee said. A soldier holds a rifle while attending a special lecture on human rights at an Army camp in Goyang, northwest of Seoul, Aug. 8. All soldiers are required to attend such lectures amid mounting criticism over hazing in the barracks following the death of an army private first class, surnamed Yoon, who suffered from brutal abuse from his colleagues. / Yonhap "I still suffer trauma, but there is no one I can complain to about this and get redress," he added. "The government should also come up with measures to help victims like me." Kim, 28, who was discharged from the Army two years ago, said he had witnessed hazing. "Many say there is no violence in the military anymore, but I don't believe that," Kim said. "Some people are slow to understand or do something. And one of my colleagues was like that. Superiors always used foul language when talking to him, and often they even cursed his parents and attacked him." The victim was bullied for absurd reasons, Kim recalls. "Verbal abuse and assaults happened because the victim did not follow stupid customs, which obviously had nothing to do with improving combat readiness," he said. For example, Kim said his colleague was forced to lick shoe polish because his boots were not shiny enough. Another colleague reported the violence to a ranking officer, and the victim was transferred to another barracks. The attackers were sent to the guardhouse. "It was a rare case, given that other units' officers tend to cover things up to evade close investigation, because officers don't want a mess," he said. "I heard from one of my friends that his colleague committed suicide because of hazing, but the death was recorded as an accident." Kim declined to elaborate. An office worker, surnamed Gil, 28, said one of his colleagues served time in the guardhouse for beating an underling. "While on night duty, he ordered a private first class not to move off a small tile on the floor. A single move outside of the tile's borders would be followed by assaults," Gil recalled. Noh, 24, a college senior who completed his service last year, witnessed sexual violence. The victim was a private first class and the perpetrator was a corporal. "The private first class reported the corporal's deed to the authorities, and the offender was given a military prison term and transferred to a different unit," he said. These stories are a source of anxiety for young men who still face conscription, and for their parents. College student Oh, 21, finished his four weeks of basic military training on Aug. 1. Now he works at a food company as part of an alternative civilian service program. Though he braved the training without any problem, his parents were not as brave. "Even though the training lasted only a month, I couldn't help worrying about my son," said his mother, surnamed Yoo. "Who knows if something bad will happen within that short time? "In the photo my son sent, some of his colleagues had tattoos on their arms. After I saw that, I started to worry. What if they bully my son?" she said. "Other parents [whose sons don't qualify for alternative programs] must have bigger worries, but I also worry about my son's safety." According to data from the Ministry of National Defense, between 2003 and last year, 874 servicemen died either as a result of suicide or accidents. An average of 80 men died every year. Human rights activists have long urged the government to take action on violence and bullying in the military. But the response remains tepid, consisting only of vague orders. In 2012, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) suggested guidelines to safeguard servicemen's human rights. Those were the strongest measures the agency believed it was capable of taking, but apparently they were insufficient. The NHRC's role is limited it can only make suggestions, not binding regulations. However, critics say the watchdog should have been more active in carrying out its duties at the very least, it could have disclosed problems to the public. It was the Center for Military Human Rights that revealed the details of Yoon's case to the media. "We have repeatedly urged the military to open itself to the public, allowing civilian human rights experts to visit the barracks and meet with soldiers," said Lim Tae-hoon, a representative of the center. "However, the military kept saying no to civilian experts that it would handle intra-military matters by itself." A woman pushes a stroller away from a cafe after being asked to leave. More restaurants and cafes are refusing patrons with children for etiquette and safety reasons. / Korea Times file Restaurants' ban on children stirs pro-and-con debate By Baek Byung-yeul, Kwon Ji-youn A local court recently ruled that two restaurants should pay 10 million won and 47 million won to two children, respectively, who were scalded while dining. One child ran into a restaurant employee carrying hot water and another was burned by charcoal fire. Once the verdict was announced, some restaurant owners started to refuse customers with children as they didn't want to be held responsible for any accidents their child could cause. This issue has emerged as a hotbed for online debate ever since. Korea isn't the first to join the movement. In two U.S. states, Texas and Pennsylvania, restaurants have banned kids, while cafes in Berlin have created child-free zones for their patrons. Some have even barred strollers, which are considered safety hazards in densely populated areas such as malls or restaurants. Even some airlines are following suit. Malaysia Air banned children under two from flying first class, while AsiaAir created a "quiet zone" for fliers above the age of 12. Restaurant owners blame children for reckless behaviors in a potentially dangerous environment involving fire and other cooking equipment, as well as disturbing other patrons' dining experience. The question is this: Do parents have the right to bring their children to cafes and restaurants, where they are at risk of getting burned, where they may be bothersome to fellow patrons? Or do restaurants have the right to refuse patrons with children for safety and etiquette reasons? Many parents with children protested, saying that this is a violation of equal rights. Choi Jung-soon, who raised two children, aged six and eight, said this is a clear example of an equal rights violation. "My kids have the right to enter any cafe or restaurant," the 33-year-old Seoulite said. A sign posted on the door of a restaurant located in Seongnam City, Gyeonggi Province, bars children who are elementary-school age or younger. / Korea Times "People who say parents bringing their toddlers to restaurants do not discipline children inside and let their kids run loose, but this is completely wrong. "I definitely do try to pay attention to my kids, making sure they don't go on a rampage inside a restaurant, but they should understand that kids aren't able to completely control themselves," she said. Heo Eun-mi, a 32-year-old mom, hadn't heard about the movement to ban kids until recently. "When I heard that a group of restaurants were banning kids, I thought to myself, no way,' because my kid loves to eat out" she said. "Before such a policy takes effect across the city, restaurants should designate child-friendly zones, where families with children can dine free from the glares of childless patrons and the narrow confines of a restaurant." She stressed that this should be the first step restaurant owners take before implementing a no kids' policy. "Then, at least they've made an effort to satisfy all customers. We're customers, too," she said. "If that still didn't work, then sure, ban kids. Also, where else will kids learn proper restaurant etiquette?" She emphasized that with a little caution, restaurant owners and parents will definitely be able to find a way to coexist. "I think the responsibility falls with both parties. Parents should be a little more attentive, and restaurant employees should be a little more careful," she said. "That's as simple as it gets." Another mother, with a seven-year-old daughter, said she had to order take-out at a coffee shop because her daughter wasn't allowed in, but she didn't mind. "When I saw the news, the first thought that came to my mind was, aren't the parents responsible for the safety of their children?'" she said on condition of anonymity. "How are restaurant owners supposed to control children while working?" Jeong Soon-ok, a college student, does admit that her experience at a restaurant in Sinsa-dong, southern Seoul, wasn't all that enjoyable because of a child who walked from table to table stealing peoples' salt and pepper shakers. "At first it was cute, but when the meals were served, we needed the salt shaker. So we took it from him and he just fell on his bottom and started screaming," she said. "The mother then came and started telling us off for forcibly taking the child's toy' away. I didn't know what to say in response." Jeong recalled another incident in where a child slipped while running in a dining room. "I remember the mother started yelling at the employees for wiping the floor down with a wet mop," she said. "I thought to myself, should they have used a dry mop?'" Ryu Seung-min, who runs a Korean-style barbeque restaurant in Seoul, agrees with ban, adding that "parents sometimes just cannot control their children." "I don't implement that kind of policy in my restaurant as my customers are mostly office workers, but I definitely agree with the food establishments that do ban kids," said the restaurant owner. "I think parents who bring their children to restaurants and don't pay attention to them seem to not understand how dangerous this place actually is. They should know that we are dealing with hot food that could burn someone if dropped. "In addition, parents who don't even try to control their careless kids are unaware they are disturbing those around them. They may have gotten used to their loud kids but this doesn't apply to the customers around them," he said. Ryu also pointed out the necessity of campaigns urging parents to better observe public etiquette while in restaurants. "I guess we need to find common ground between owners and parents. I think educating parents the virtue of paying more attention to their kids while dining is a good, first step," he said. The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRC) states that it is illegal for a business to ban children from entering restaurants, adding that it is against the rights of equality. However, this presents a catch-22. If restaurants ban children, then these establishments are breaking the existing laws. But if a restaurant has put forth clear grounds as to why it restricts access to kids, then there is no way to impose sanctions on the offending restaurant. To illustrate this point, NHRC dismissed a case in 2010 filed by an anonymous informant that a restaurant implements a "no kids" policy in their judgment that the restaurant had clear reason to do so. "As long as we, restaurant owners, are responsible for any accidents involving children, it is crystal-clear that more and more restaurants and cafes will adopt the no kids' policy," Ryu added. Two Vietnamese fishermen accused of murdering two Koreans aboard a vessel in the Indian Ocean will be brought to Korea later Thursday to face trial, the foreign ministry said. The suspects, both aged 32, are accused of killing the 43-year-old captain and 42-year-old engineer of the deep-sea fishing vessel Kwang Hyun 803 in waters near Seychelles on June 20. They are expected to arrive at Incheon International Airport later in the day under the escort of Coast Guard officers, the ministry said in a press release. "After holding active diplomatic negotiations with the relevant countries for the suspects' transfer, the foreign ministry secured the cooperation of the Indian government to bring them to South Korea via Mumbai airport and won approval from the related airlines for their boarding," it said. The suspects left Seychelles on Tuesday and stopped in Mumbai en route to Korea as there are no direct flights between the island nation and Incheon. (Yonhap) South Korea and China will hold working-level talks next week to resolve the growing issue of illegal fishing by Chinese fishermen in South Korean waters, Seoul's foreign ministry said Thursday. It will be the ninth round of bilateral talks on fisheries issues led by deputy director-general level officials from the two countries' foreign ministries. This time, the meeting comes amid heightened tension over illegal fishing, which was prompted by the recent capture of Chinese fishing boats by South Korean fishermen in the Yellow Sea. "We are in consultations with the Chinese side to hold the talks in Gwangju on July 5," ministry spokesman Cho June-hyuck said during a regular press briefing. Gwangju lies 329 kilometers south of Seoul. The two sides will discuss the issue of illegal fishing and seek measures to improve fishing operations in the Yellow Sea, he said. The meeting will be joined by officials from the Coast Guard and fishery authorities. (Yonhap) By Jun Ji-hye North Korean leader Kim Jong-un will head the country's recently created top decision-making body, the Commission on State Affairs, officials here said Thursday. The new organ seems to have an expanded role for handling inter-Korean affairs as well as diplomacy and security issues, which means that Kim has established himself as supreme leader with absolute power. According to the North's state-run Korean Central Television, the Supreme People's Assembly decided to appoint Kim as the chairman of the commission during its meeting, Wednesday. The Assembly also revised the Constitution and replaced the National Defense Commission (NDC) with the Commission on State Affairs, according to the broadcaster. Previously, Kim was the first chairman of the NDC. Analysts in South Korea say that Kim is apparently attempting to erase the legacy of his father, Kim Jong-il, to cement his grip on power, given that the NDC served as a powerful state organization under the Kim Jong-il regime which advocated a military-first policy. The young leader took power in late 2011 following the sudden death of his father. By Kim Rahn K-pop star Park Yu-chun has been summoned for questioning over allegations of sexual assault. The member of boy band JYJ presented himself at Gangnam Police Station in southern Seoul, Thursday, 20 days after the first of four alleged victims filed a complaint against him. Park, who is now serving his military duty at a local district office, arrived at the station at 6:30 p.m. after his duty hours were finished at 6 p.m. "I'm sorry for having caused anxiety to many people. I'll cooperate with the investigation," Park told reporters before entering the police station, without further comment about the allegations. By Jun Ji-hye Residents in Eumseong, North Chungcheong Province, and politicians there are reacting angrily to rumors that their hometown has been selected as the site for a U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) unit. Adding fuel are news reports that the Army's missile command, stationed in the town, is seeking to purchase land there. The residents believe that the land purchase is a prior step toward the deployment of the THAAD unit, though the command explained that the purchased land will be used as a training ground for its troops. When Korea and the United States agreed in February to launch official talks on whether to allow the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) to deploy a THAAD battery on the Korean Peninsula, they said Seoul would provide the site and relevant facilities for the deployment, while Washington would bear expenses of operating the battery. Where to deploy THAAD has been a hot potato due to the electromagnetic waves emitted by the battery's AN/TPY-2 radar, which are known to carry potential safety and environmental threats. Eumseong has been recently mentioned as a possible location for THAAD in various news reports. Other candidate locations mentioned so far included Pyeongtaek in Gyeonggi Province; Daegu; Waegwan in North Gyeongsang Province; Wonju in Gangwon Province; and Gunsan in North Jeolla Province, where USFK units were and are stationed. The news about the command's move to purchase the site in Eumseong comes amid growing expectation that the allies will accelerate their ongoing talks on the deployment as North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile threats are growing. Employment and Labor Minister Lee Ki-kweon, center, speaks during a press conference announcing the government assistance for financially troubled local shipbuilders in Seoul, Thursday. / Yonhap Big 3 companies excluded from support due to strike By Lee Kyung-min The government plans to spend 750 billion won ($650 million) to help prevent massive layoffs at more than 7,800 companies in the ailing shipbuilding industry, Thursday. However, the nation's top three shipbuilders Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) will be exempted from receiving support unless their labor unions stop opposing the companies' self-restructuring plans. Employment and Labor Minister Lee Ki-kweon announced the shipbuilding sector's eligibility for the government's special support program for one year starting today. The move comes amid an industry-wide slump due to a decrease in overseas contracts, following which an estimated 63,000 workers are at risk of losing their jobs by the end of next year. "The government decided to implement the measure to help prevent layoffs in the troubled sector and minimize the negative impact to the regional economy," Lee said during a press conference in Seoul. "The current economic slump can only be overcome by a joint effort of union members and management to reach a compromise." Under the program, the government will offer financial support for up to one year for companies that suspend operations instead of firing workers by paying part of the workers' wages. The government will also increase the amount of subsidies for companies that pay for workers' job training. If the workers receive the training while on paid leave, the government will cover the full cost for firms that have less than 1,000 employers, and 70 percent for those with 1,000 workers or more. It will pay for severance packages and back wages to workers whose companies went bankrupt or closed after a minimum of six months of operation. The government will spend a total of 750 billion won to set up a shipbuilding worker training center in the southern regions where a large number of shipbuilding workers live, including Ulsan, Geoje and Jinhae in South Gyeongsang Province and Yeongam County in South Jeolla Province. "We understand that offering such a large amount of government subsidies to a particular sector should earn the public consensus first. Also, our stance is that a strike is not the answer," a labor ministry official said, pledging to continue monitoring the number of laid-off workers and their rehiring rate. For the top three shipbuilders, the ministry said they still have orders and are unlikely to fire workers anytime soon. The unions of the companies said earlier they would stage a strike against the government's request to submit self-restructuring measures, which may include pay cuts and layoffs. "The management and the unions of the companies have not come up with detailed self-restructuring plans," the official said. Once they submit plans, the government will review them and decide whether to include the three companies in the support program. By Kim Hyo-jin Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo, former co-leader of the minor opposition People's Party, sits with regular party members during a meeting at the National Assembly, Thursday. / Yonhap Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo, a former co-leader of the minor opposition People's Party, vowed a fresh start as an "ordinary Assemblyman," Thursday, after he resigned from the post over a corruption scandal involving party members. "I will do my best for the party as an ordinary lawmaker," Ahn told reporters after a party meeting. However, he didn't answer any questions about his possible bid for Cheong Wa Dae. Some analysts raised speculation that the resignation is linked to his preparations for the presidential race next year. According to Ahn's aides, Ahn will focus on devising policies for a while. "Ahn underlined industrial and educational innovation and solutions for social disparity during the recent parliamentary speech. He would now spend time elaborating policies for such agendas," an aide said. Meanwhile, Rep. Park Jie-won, the party's interim leader who took over a leadership role remained confident in putting the bewildered party back on track. "Our leaders' resignation can be a turnaround for the party. We will continue bearing Ahn's legacy, new politics'," Park said during a party meeting. Expressing confidence in Ahn's presidential bid, Park said, "Ahn will soon build momentum for the presidential race as an ordinary lawmaker." But political watchers question if Ahn could reemerge as a competent presidential candidate, overcoming the aftermath of the scandal. They also remain doubtful of the possibility that People's Party can gain traction again as a confident third party. "People's Party was launched, solely relying on the image of one lawmaker, Ahn Cheol-soo. Without his lead, there's a limit to the extent which the party can grow as a competent party," said Hwang Tae-soon, a senior analyst at Wisdom Center. "Worse, Park has an image of old politics, reminding people of the era under the Kim Dae-jung administration." Hwang said, about Ahn, that a politician without an official title in the party could easily fade into the background. "Ahn himself showed an example of this very thing happening when he stepped down from the leadership post of the main opposition party in 2014. For over a year until then he stood as then party leader Moon Jae-in's opponent, Ahn had kept a low-profile, quickly getting out of public attention," he said. Choi Chang-ryol, a politics professor at Yongin University, agreed with Hwang, saying "Once an image is dent with a corruption scandal, it's irreversible." "Even if he left the impression of being a responsible politician, Ahn will have to bear the image of old politics. And it will be a significant hurdle for him in his attempts to widen his influence as a presidential contender with nationwide support." Lee Jae-jeong, superintendent of the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education, speaks during a meeting with journalists at his office in Suwon, Wednesday. Lee announced he was abolishing evening self-study session at high schools. / Yonhap Top educator plans to abolish evening 'self-study' sessions By Kim Se-jeong Education is a frequent topic of public discussion in Korea, where entering a prestigious university is regarded as one of the most important goals in life and it is very common for students to study late into the night in preparation for the university entrance exam. A new plan by the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education (GPOE) may ban high schools in the province from keeping students for long hours late into the evening. At many high schools not only in the province but also nationwide, students study late into the evening after regular classes end. In Gyeonggi, two out of 10 high school students participate in these sessions. On Wednesday, Lee Jae-jeong, the region's education chief, said he would abolish self-study sessions. "Keeping students up late is an undesirable, inhumane policy which resulted from the competition-oriented education system," Lee told reporters during a meeting to mark his two years in office. He added he will instead roll out a new education program for students involving local universities. The new program will give high school students the opportunity to take courses at local universities, with the aim of "helping them discover their academic interests and build up a foundation for higher education." The courses will be offered between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. The GPOE is discussing the program with several universities in the province and more details are yet to come. His announcement quickly generated a buzz. Proponents welcomed his plan, saying it is revolutionary and forward-looking. They hoped the initiative would spread quickly. "I heard many students doze off or do things other than studying during self-study sessions. I like the idea and I hope children can spend their time on their own," a mother of two high school students said on an online community for parents. Lee did something similar two years ago. He pushed all schools in the province to start classes no earlier than 9 a.m., which was quite revolutionary especially for high school students who used to come to school between 7:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. Despite an initial backlash from parents and other educators, the 9 o'clock class initiative took root and schools in other regions followed suit. The no-self-study session plan, however, faces strong opposition. "The plan didn't consider the reality at all," said Kim Dong-seok, the spokesperson of the Korean Federation of Teachers' Association. He added that it could inadvertently affect students from poor families who need a quiet place to study in the evening. Kim also said the education office is taking away freedom from schools, teachers and students. The association is also concerned that students may turn to private education instead during the evening time, resulting in increased spending on private study academies. Lee's announcement actually pushed up the stock prices for private education companies. "I am sure Lee's initiative will prompt parents to spend more money on sending their children to cram schools," Kim said. President Park Geun-hye Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe President will hold tripartite summit By Kang Seung-woo President Park Geun-hye plans to travel to Japan for a trilateral meeting with her Chinese and Japanese counterparts, according to Lee Joon-gyu, the nominee for Seoul's ambassador to Tokyo, Wednesday. This will be Park's first trip to Japan since her inauguration in 2013. The visit is expected to spur normalization of the ties between the two countries, according to analysts. This year, Japan holds the rotating chair of the trilateral talks, expected to take place in November following their foreign ministers' talks in October, according to Japanese media outlets. "The trilateral talks between Korea, China and Japan are scheduled to be held in the second half of the year in Japan and President Park's visit for the meeting is expected to play an important role in bettering bilateral relations," Lee said in a diplomatic forum. "Both countries need to take advantage of this visit as an opportunity to advance bilateral ties." Since taking office in February 2013, President Park has set the Japanese government's sincerity toward its wartime aggression as a precondition for her to visit Japan as well as hold a summit with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe because of Tokyo's attempts to whitewash historic wrongdoings, including the sexual enslavement of Korean women before and during World War II. Last November, Park hosted a trilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Abe here and agreed to hold the event on a regular basis. "Korea and Japan are taking steps toward normalizing their relations," said Park Won-gon, an international relations professor at Handong Global University He added that since the two nations reached a deal on the "comfort women" last December, they have shown signs of getting bilateral ties back on track, as evidenced by trilateral coordination with the United States on North Korea's nuclear threats. "Amid the positive atmosphere, Park's visit would be the final step en route to normalizing relations. Following Park's trip, Abe is likely to make a return visit to Seoul," Park said. President Park delayed holding a face-to-face meeting with Abe until November 2015, on the sidelines of the three-way talks. Diplomatic rudeness Lee, meanwhile, is drawing flak for making public the head of state's overseas trip, which is still under negotiations. "It is an inappropriate announcement given that a summit between Korea and Japan is always a sensitive issue," said professor Park. "It is a practice to officially make public the schedule for summits on the given day following intergovernmental arrangements. His premature announcement is irresponsible as a ranking diplomat." In addition, there is speculation that China may be displeased with Lee's disclosure, regarding it as pressing Beijing to begin coordinating the trilateral talks as soon as possible. According to Japan's Asahi Shimbun on June 15, China has "no intention of becoming involved in coordinating a trilateral meeting" until after the G-20 summit, scheduled for Sept. 4 to 5 in Hangzhou. Some analysts predict that China may boycott the annual meeting due to icy relations with Japan, which is on the U.S. side over the South China Sea dispute between Beijing and Washington. South Korea's President Park Geun-hye, left, and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe / Korea Times By Ko Dong-hwan President Park Geun-hye will visit Japan later this year -- the first time since taking office three years ago -- Lee Joon-gyu, who was recently named South Korean ambassador to Japan, said. Park's visit, which will thaw the chilly Seoul-Tokyo relationship, will be "within the second half of this year," Lee said during a foreign affairs security policy forum at Yonsei University in Seoul, Wednesday. "The tripartite summit (involving South Korea, Japan and China) will take place in Japan within the second half of this year," he said. "Park's visit to Japan will play an important role in improving the Korea-Japan relationship." But Lee has drawn criticism for releasing the comment about Park's visit because it comes in haste amid uncertainties over the summit. With China's participation undecided as the country readies to host the G20 meeting in September, the tripartite summit may not happen. Lee, who was named ambassador in late May, has not received official agreement to the appointment from Japan, according to DongA Ilbo. At a Korea-China-Japan summit in Seoul last November, the countries agreed to hold the meeting regularly, with the next one in Japan. Japanese news outlets said the summit will be in November but details have not been decided. Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn on Thursday urged a Chinese provincial government to lend support in recovering the remains of independence activists who fought against Japan's colonial rule. Hwang asked the Liaoning provincial government to approve South Korea's use of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) devices in the northeastern region to find the remains of Ahn Jung-geun, who stood up against Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule. Ahn is a historic figure who assassinated the Korean Peninsula's first Japanese governor-general, Ito Hirobumi, at the Harbin train station in October 1909. He was later executed and his remains are presumed to be burried in the region, although more investigations are needed to find the exact location. South Korea first asked the Chinese government to approve its GPR-based investigation in 2014, but it did not get approval. Experts said the Chinese government is reluctant to give the approval as the region covers a military area, while it also needs to take North Korea's stance into consideration. The provincial government said it will seek to find a "reasonable solution" on the matter. South Korea and China also agreed to expand ties in various sectors from the economy and education to tourism. The Liaoning provincial government also said it wants to host more South Korea companies specializing in automobiles and electronics in the region. (Yonhap) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is seen dozing while attending a meeting of the Supreme People's Assembly in Pyongyang, Wednesday, in this video footage released by the state-controlled Korean Central Television, Thursday. By Yi Whan-woo North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was caught dozing while attending a meeting of the Supreme People's Assembly, Wednesday, in video footage released by the country's state-controlled Korean Central Television (KCTV), Thursday. Kim was seen remaining still for about five seconds in his seat with his eyes closed when a camera caught him while filming the meeting. The camera then quickly turned to the audience. It is unknown whether the KCTV mistakenly kept the moment in the recorded broadcast or intended to show the tyrant's "sleepless and restless" efforts to serve his people, said analysts here. Previously, South Korea's spy agency claimed that Kim ordered the execution of then-Defense Minister Hyon Yong-chol in April 2015 after he was caught dozing during a meeting that he presided over. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) said Kim was angered at Hyon "being disrespectful and disloyal" to him. An official at the Ministry of Unification said, "It's difficult to confirm whether he was asleep by only watching the footage." But the footage went viral in online communities. Oh Young-jin By Oh Young-jin It's high time for a change in tactics on North Korea. Instead of trying to prevent the North more specifically its leader from getting what it wants, why not give it exactly this as a horse with a Trojan streak or a chalice lined with poison. For this strategy, above all, it is important to see what Pyongyang wants. First, it wants to be recognized by the world as a nuclear weapon state. What does this mean? The North wants this recognition so badly that it has been written into its constitution. Striking a different path from his father and grandfather, the 33-year-old leader Kim Jong-un, has worked his state propaganda machine overtime and frequently played the lead role himself in bragging about the latest developments in its missile and nuclear development. By now, it is clear that Kim has a purpose for trying to get credit for the progress in his country's programs for weapons of mass destruction. It is a kind of reputation-building effort by Kim, who only has his "royal" pedigree to claim to be dictator-for-life in the gulag state. His father, Kim Jong-il, allegedly stage-managed a series of terrorist attacks and provocations against the South. His grandfather, Kim Il-sung, was the one who led an invasion against the South as a proxy of the now defunct Soviet Union. The current one doesn't have anything to claim to be his. He obviously dreams of riding on the success of WMD programs, giving himself the legitimacy he lacks. Now, what would we, the rest of the world, get or pay in return for allowing Kim to claim that he has made the North a nuclear state? First of all, we could simply let the North rot by not paying attention to it. The North is a country of limited resources a fact that can't change just because it has outlived pundits' expectations. Hopefully, it would be a slow-motion death for being dragged into its expensive weapons programs. Or we can invite Kim, elated over the global recognition, out of his cocoon state, give him a party, hoping he inadvertently lets in the wind of change. The end result is the demise of the North as we know it. South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo, left, meets with China's Admiral Sun Jianguo, deputy chief of general staff of the Chinese People's Liberation Army during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 15th International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-la Dialogue, or IISS, Asia Security Summit in Singapore, Saturday. / Yonhap By Jun Ji-hye China repeated its opposition to the possible deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery on the Korean Peninsula, Sunday, claiming that it would destabilize the Asia-Pacific region. "China is opposed to the ongoing U.S. moves to deploy the THAAD system in South Korea," said Adm. Sun Jianguo, China's deputy chief of general staff, at a session of the Asia Security Summit, known also as the Shangri-La Dialogue, in Singapore. "This will erode the security of the region." The summit, which kicked off Friday for a three-day run, is an annual gathering of defense officials in the Asia-Pacific region. "As a soldier myself, I am well aware of the meaning of the deployment," the admiral said in his capacity as China's top representative to the annual security forum. "Deploying THAAD on the Korean Peninsula is an excessive measure that by far exceeds current U.S. defense capabilities." A day earlier, Sun also expressed his country's opposition to the deployment of the missile defense system on the peninsula during a bilateral meeting with South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo on the sidelines of the summit. He said it would infringe on China's strategic interests, exposing the deepening bilateral row over the issue once again. In response, Minister Han said, "China is overestimating THAAD. The discussion on deployment originated in a move to defend against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats." By Jun Ji-hye North Korea's purported successful test of an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) is expected to accelerate ongoing talks between South Korea and the United States on deploying an advanced U.S. missile defense system here. Following the missile launch on Wednesday, U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said the North's latest IRBM test underscored the need for Washington and its allies to build strong missile defenses. "For whatever reason, and with whatever level of success, this shows the need for us to continue to do what we're doing, which is build these missile defenses of various ranges to protect both our South Korean allies, U.S. forces on the Korean Peninsula, Japan and U.S. territory," Carter said during a visit to the U.S. Army post at Fort Knox, Kentucky, according to the Pentagon. South Korean defense officials also said it has become even more important to establish better missile defense system to respond to growing threats from Pyongyang's ballistic missiles mounted with miniaturized nuclear warheads. The comments come as the North appears to have made considerable progress in developing its IRBMs, as well as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), especially in developing missile engines. "The North is believed to have verified the engine of the missile and its flight distance through the latest test," South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo told reporters, Friday. "We assess that the North's technology has made progress in those two areas." U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump strongly criticized the free trade agreement with South Korea on Tuesday, accusing it of enlarging U.S. trade deficits and costing a number of American jobs. Trump made the argument in an economic policy speech in Pennsylvania, expressing deeply negative views of free trade and accusing his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton of supporting what he called "one terrible trade deal after another." "It was also Hillary Clinton, as secretary of state, who shoved us into a job-killing deal with South Korea in 2012," Trump said. "As reported by the Economic Policy Institute in May, this deal doubled our trade deficit with South Korea and destroyed nearly 100,000 American jobs." Trump also said that Clinton "unleashed a trade war against the American worker when she supported one terrible trade deal after another -- from NAFTA to China to South Korea." Trump vowed to pull out of the 12-nation Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) if elected president. He also said he would immediately renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to get a better deal, and withdraw from the deal unless NAFTA partners agree to a renegotiation. Trump made no direct mention of renegotiation with the deal with Korea in Tuesday's speech. Korea remains hesitant about early negotiations By Yi Whan-woo The United States is apparently increasing pressure on South Korea to accelerate the ongoing talks on deploying a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery here. The allies are offering different stories about whether their defense ministers will discuss the missile system during a meeting in Singapore today. On Friday, South Korea's defense ministry denied U.S. Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter's claim a day earlier that he will discuss the THAAD issue when he meets Defense Minister Han Min-koo on the sidelines of the 15th Asia Security Summit in Singapore. "There is no plan for discussions between the two defense ministers in Singapore," a ministry spokesman said. "Related discussions on THAAD have been underway between working-level officials of Seoul and Washington and they'll make their conclusions public when their discussions are over." "The two governments will consider these before finalizing whether to have a THAAD system on South Korean soil, and the two sides are fully aware of this procedure," the spokesman said. Carter reportedly said Thursday that the THAAD issue will be included among topics during his talks with the South Korean minister. Another senior U.S. defense official was even quoted by U.S. media as saying that the two countries will have a "public announcement" soon about the deployment of a THAAD unit. Analysts speculated that South Korea and the U.S. are at odds over talks between their defense ministers because the two allies have different security concerns on China's role on the Korean Peninsula. Mayor Park should suspend populist cash program Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon should rethink his plan to supply cash to people in their 20s struggling without jobs. The Seoul Metropolitan Government is pushing ahead with the impromptu program despite opposition from the central government. The city government will start to take in applications from people in their 20s starting next week to provide monthly subsidies of 500,000 won to some 3,000 people for up to six months. Through the program, the city aims to provide a bit of financial assistance and encouragement to young adults amid the current high youth unemployment. Mayor Park's intention is honorable but it is a populist scheme that cannot serve as a long-term solution to lifting the hardships of the unemployed. His unilateral push for the plan is irrational when considering that a similar plan in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, has already caused much controversy. Park should have carefully reviewed Seongnam's case and taken a more cautious approach toward such a costly program. Another serious problem is that if Seoul continues this plan, it may lead to other mayors resorting to populist programs like cash allowances. This will aggravate the finances of municipal governments, many of which are not self-sufficient and rely heavily on funding from the central government. Considering the negative side effects, it will be a responsible move for the Seoul mayor to admit the fallacies of his cash allowance program and suspend it. Mayor Park should collect opinions from Seoul's young adults from various walks of life to learn what they really want from his administration in improving their livelihoods. In fact, even the young people are against the program. In a recent survey, 64.2 percent of respondents in their 20s and 30s disapproved of the plan. The main reason for their opposition was that they feared it would undercut the self-sufficiency of the young people. There were also many who showed concern about the vague criteria for selection of the recipients of the subsidies, such as a "determination to participate in society" or "will to seek employment." Also, since the program covers only 3,000 people, it will not be effective in producing the desired outcome of facilitating the employment of young people in Seoul. Only 4.4 percent of respondents said that they were positive about the cash allowance. Experts suggest that it is more important for the city to implement measures that actually lift the financial burden on the young unemployed people, such as a discount for public transportations or fees related to certificates that young jobseekers pursue to improve their resumes. Mayor Park should reflect such views in his welfare programs for the unemployed youth. Many young people, in particular, are stuck in an endless cycle of short-term positions and internships. A recent survey shows that the unemployment rate among people aged between 15 and 29 hit a record monthly high of 10.9 percent in April. Rather than short-sighted programs, mayors should focus on fundamental solutions to employment, such as creating more quality jobs. Park Chan-kyu, professor at Konkuk University By Lee Hyo-sik A biotechnology professor at Konkuk University has developed a technology to mass produce a biomaterial that could become a viable alternative to antibiotics. This latest technology has attracted keen attention from pharmaceutical companies at home and abroad, which have been seeking new material that can replace antibiotics, Prof. Park Chan-kyu of the university's Department of Animal Biotechnology said, Thursday. With the overuse of antibiotics in Korea and elsewhere, some bacteria have become tolerant, forcing the medical world to come up with an alternative for treating infections and other illnesses. "The technology developed by our team at Konkuk University could offer a solution to this pressing issue," Park said. "For the first time in the world, we have succeeded in mass producing an antimicrobial peptide (AMP), which has been touted as an alternative to antibiotics for many years." AMP, part of the immune response found among all classes of life, has been demonstrated to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi. But AMP has not been widely used because it is difficult to mass produce. "In May, we obtained a patent from the Korean Intellectual Property Office and are now trying to earn an international patent in accordance with the Patent Cooperation Treaty," the professor said. "We have secured source technologies in speeding up the production of AMP. This will prompt the mass production and commercialization of the matter for a wide range of medical uses." He said AMP will be effective in treating bacteria and viruses resistant to conventional antibiotics, stressing it will significantly boost public health and reduce medical costs. Park's research, "Green fluorescent protein as a scaffold for high efficiency production of functional bacteriotoxic proteins in Escherichia coli," was published in Scientific Reports, an online and open-access journal run by Nature, in February. The research was sponsored by the Korea Institute of Planning and Evaluation for Technology in Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Park received a bachelor's degree in animal science from Konkuk University in 1991. After earning a master's degree from the school, he went to the United States and received a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign in 1998. Until 2001, he was at the Jackson Laboratory in the U.S. state of Maine for postdoctoral training. In 2004, Park became a full-time professor at Konkuk University. United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Director General Li Yong, fourth from right in front row, and Ulsan Mayor Kim Gi-hyeon, center, pose with other participants during the opening ceremony of the 4th Green Industry Conference in Ulsan, Tuesday. UNIDO and the Ulsan Metropolitan City hosted the international conference which is expected to adopt the Ulsan statement. / Korea Times photo by Kim Ji-soo By Kim Ji-soo ULSAN The three-day Green Industry Conference opened Tuesday here, with about 300 representatives from the government, business, academia and civil sectors gathering to discuss interdependence between industry and cities in striving for resource efficiency and green technology. The fourth edition of the international conference is jointly hosted by the U.N. Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Ulsan Metropolitan City. UNIDO is a specialized U.N. agency that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability. The event is also sponsored by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade (KIET), the Small and Medium Business Administration (SMBA), the National Research Council of Science and Technology (NST) and the China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group (CECEP). Countries and their industries and cities face the urgent need to shift to resource-efficient and low-carbon production, prompting the UNIDO to launch its "green industry" initiative to promote economically, environmentally and socially sustainable industrial development. Launched in 2009 during the first International Conference on Green Industry in Asia in Manila, Philippines, the initiative complements the U.N. Environmental Program's "green economy" initiative and the UNESCAP or the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific's "green growth." Under the theme of "Green Industry for Sustainable Cities," the participants will review successes and the latest examples from industries and cities, and what policy challenges and opportunities lie ahead in implementing green industry solutions. On the first day, UNIDO Director General Li Yong (of China) and Ulsan City Mayor Kim Gi-hyeon opened the event, followed by statements from high-level representatives. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and U.N. Habitat Executive Director Joan Clos delivered video messages. Some of the high-level representatives in attendance were MOTIE Deputy Minister Park Won-joo, Chairman Wang Xiaokang of China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, Thai Minister of Industry Atchaka Sibunruang, Afghan Minister of Commerce and Industries Humayoon Rasaw, Bangladeshi Minister of Industry Amir Hossain Amu, Vietnamese Vice-Minister of Industry and Trade Hoang Quoc Vuong and Cambodian Minister of Industry and Handicrafts Cham Prasidh. The participants from 25 countries held plenary sessions on three themes _ green industry for sustainable cities, Korea's green strategy in urban industrial areas, and low-carbon transport and energy for sustainable cities. U.N. statistics forecast that cities and urban areas will host about 70 percent of the global population by 2050; the conference accordingly delved into how cities can play a fundamental role in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by nurturing a new type of industrialization that relies on innovation and green technology and creates jobs. In Korea, the Low-Carbon Green Growth (LCGG) initiatives were introduced during the Lee Myung-bak administration (2008-2013), and a national strategy for green growth (2009-2050) was announced. The Korean city of Ulsan, with a population of 1.1 million, is an industrial powerhouse. It is home to the world's largest automobile assembly plant, operated by Hyundai Motor; the largest shipyard, operated by Hyundai Heavy Industries; and the second largest oil refinery, operated by SK Energy. As a result, the city's GDP per capita is among the highest in the nation. Yet industries in Ulsan have converted existing facilities into eco-industrial parks through inter-industry waste, energy and material exchange. Such is the case between SK Chemical and SK Energy, where the former sends surplus steam to the latter in the Ulsan Steam Highway Project. On the second day, participants will discuss how the green industry contributes to the circular economy, including key green industry activities such as eco-industrial parks and sound chemical management, that reduces pollution and waste through re-use or safe re-absorption by the environment. At the conclusion of the day, the participants will issue a joint statement, called the "Ulsan Statement," containing the recommendations and actions. On the last day, the participants will visit the manufacturing sites in Ulsan, including those of Hyundai Heavy Industries, SK Energy and Ulsan Hydrogen Town, to see how the actual interdependent relationship is working. The Green Industry Conference has been held in three countries in addition to Korea. In the 2009 conference in Manila, the participants gathered under the theme "Managing the Transition to Resource-Efficient and Low-Carbon Industries." In the 2011 conference in Tokyo, Japan, the attendees discussed progress in green industry. The third conference in Guangzhou focused on the theme of "Promoting the Rapid Uptake of Green Industry in Harmony with the Earth's Ecosystems." Kwon Sang-woo Top actor Kwon Sang-woo will meet his Japanese fans on a three-day tour through Japan, reports say. Kwon, 39, will meet his fans first in Nagoya on June 30, then travel to Tokyo on July 1 and then onto Kobe on July 2. At the fan meetings, Kwon will sing a total of five songs, take questions from fans and engage in games. He has been holding fan meetings for 11 years. Reports said that all of the 8,800-tickets to the three-city event have been sold out and there have been requests for additional tickets. Kwon has starred in numerous hit dramas and films, notably his 2004 film "Once Upon a Time in High School" and the TV drama "Stairway to Heaven" in which he starred with top actress Choi Ji-woo. The two reunited in the 2014 drama "Temptation." An investor watches the stock prices of Samsung Electronics, Samsung C&T and Samsung SDS on a screen in a stock trading room, downtown Seoul, Thursday. / Yonhap Korea Exchange asks Samsung to clarify death rumor By Kim Yoo-chul The stock prices of key Samsung affiliates soared Thursday on rumors that Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Kun-hee is dead. Samsung Electronics rose 2.08 percent to end at 1,425,000 won. Samsung SDS increased 3.99 percent to close at 143,500 won, while the group's de facto holding company, Samsung C&T, was up 4.68 percent at 123,000 won. More than 2.4 million Samsung C&T shares were traded, a sevenfold surge from the previous session. Early Thursday, a rumor about Lee's death began spreading quickly. According to the rumor, the Samsung Corporate Strategy Office, the group control tower, had planned to announce the business tycoon's death. According to the rumor, Samsung had told Cheong Wa Dae of the death, news of which was embargoed until 3 p.m. But the strategy office was quick to shoot down the rumor, saying: "It's totally groundless." Lee is the country's richest man, with an estimated net worth of $11 billion. The tycoon officially remains hospitalized after having heart surgery years ago. A spokesman at the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS), the country's top financial regulator, said the agency will investigate whether groups and funds had spread the rumor to gain from speculative trading. "We will investigate," a spokesman said. KRX, the market operator, said it has asked Samsung Electronics to clarify rumors about the chairman's health. Samsung said it will give its official answer by Friday. This was not the first rumor of Lee's death there have been about eight since he was hospitalized. The Samsung Corporate Strategy Office is receiving updates on Lee's health from the Samsung Medical Center in southern Seoul. The managerial vacuum is being filled by the chairman's only son and Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman, Lee Jae-yong. A power shift is also under way under the leadership of vice chairman Lee. Samsung is selling non-core assets and asking affiliates to restructure unprofitable businesses. It has shifted its focus to software-driven segments, not areas that require advantages in manufacturing. LG Group Chairman Koo Bon-moo, left, holds a globe with Yemeni student Akram Al-Jadi, right, and Yonsei University undergraduate Kwon Yoo-jung during the opening ceremony of this year's LG Global Challenger program at the company's headquarters on Yeouido, Seoul, Wednesday. / Courtesy of LG By Yoon Sung-won LG Group Chairman Koo Bon-moo underlined the importance of education for the long-term growth of business and the country, Wednesday. The chairman met with professors, undergraduates and graduate students and pledged further support for universities to foster competent human resources. "LG has sponsored overseas study and training programs for the last 28 years under the belief that universities are the root of national competitiveness," Koo said during the meeting, Tuesday. "I expect universities to continue boosting academic achievement and fostering talented human resources while helping businesses excel in the highly competitive global market." Koo participated in the opening ceremony, Wednesday, for this year's LG Global Challenger, the nation's oldest program that supports overseas travel for undergrads. The program provides university students with opportunities to visit government agencies, research centers, universities and companies overseas and learn from them for two weeks between semesters. Established in 1995 when Koo took office as chairman, the initiative has supported a total of 2,760 undergrads over the last 21 years, LG said. "Low growth and global climate change are not confined to certain countries but what the entire world faces," Koo said to the undergraduates. "Your creative and innovative challenges will bring what we have dreamed into reality." Separately, LG Group has also supported foreign students studying in Korea. This year, it has chosen 20 students from 14 countries to visit traditional markets and produce hanji (traditional Korean paper). On Tuesday, LG Yonam Culture Foundation named 30 professors of natural science, social science, economics, business administration and humanities and gave them $36,000 to support their overseas studies. Among the 30 professors chosen this year were Lee Nam-ki, an associate professor of interdisciplinary bioscience and bioengineering at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), and Park Jin-hong, an associate professor of electronics and electrical engineering at Sungkyunkwan University. Lee became the first in the world to observe the cerebral nerve transmission process and Park has developed the world's first semiconductor device operable at minus 90 degrees Celsius. The foundation said it has run the support program since the late 1980s in hope that experts studying at advanced overseas academic institutions return to Korea and contribute to the fostering of younger scholars. The foundation has offered a total of about 24 billion won for 777 professors so far this year. It stressed that the program has not stopped even amid the foreign exchange crisis in the late 1990s. By Yoon Sung-won Korea Communications Commission Chairman Choi Sung-joon denied the allegation that the government will abolish the upper limit of a subsidy, which can be provided to customers, before its expiration, Wednesday. "As it is a sunset regulation, we will try to maintain the upper limit fully for three years until September next year," Choi said. He made the remark during the general meeting of the National Assembly's committee of science, ICT, future planning, broadcasting and communications. "I cannot say for sure. But for now, we do not plan to adjust the upper limit of the subsidy provision," he said. The limitation was introduced as part of the Telecommunications Act to encourage fair competition by prohibiting handset makers and mobile carriers from providing excessive subsidies to attract subscribers. The upper limit was set at 330,000 won per handset. When the cap was introduced in 2014, the government made it time-limited and consented to automatically abolish it after three years under the belief that it would succeed in stabilizing the market. Choi also said senior members of the committee have agreed that the market has been stabilized. "Our senior committee members discussed the issue for the first time Monday as news reports alleged that the upper limit would be abolished before the agency even talked about it," Choi said. "After the discussion, we reached an agreement that the market is stabilized and does not need extra adjustment." Rodrigo Duterte was sworn into office Thursday / Courtesy of Twitter By Lee Han-soo Several drug dealers and addicts in the Philippines have turned themselves in to authorities after the country's new President, Rodrigo Duterte, declared war on dealers and permitted killing them. More than 300 suspects in Manila and 130 in Davao Del Sur have surrendered to authorities in fear of death, according a local news station. The high turn-in rate comes after police killed 60 drug dealers on May 9, after Duterte said he would wipe out drugs. Police have said that before the massive crackdown they will treat drug dealers who turn themselves in as victims. They also promised to support rehabilitation for them. This has led to an oath ceremony in some parts of the country where drug dealers and addicts have sworn to give up drugs. Although Duterte's hard line has been viewed by some as a violation of human rights, he firmly believes in his policy. "To die is better than committing crimes while living as an addict," he said on a visit to Cebu Sunday. Duterte was inaugurated on Thursday at the presidential palace in Manila. Incoming Philippine's president Rodrigo Duterte has declared war on criminals. /AP-Yonhap By Lee Jin-a Anti-crime hardliner Rodrigo Duterte will take the oath of office to become the 16th president of the Philippines on Thursday. During his campaign, Duterte declared war on corruption and major crimes, saying he will "execute" all criminals within six months of his inauguration. "I believe in retribution. Why? (Because) You should pay. When you kill someone, rape, you should die," Duterte said in a speech in Davao City, Monday. "I follow the classical theory that you have to pay for what you have done." Duterte's administration plans to reintroduce the death penalty, give police power to kill drug dealers at the scene and encourage citizens to kill or arrest suspects. The former mayor of Davao City gained popularity after using extreme measures to punish criminals to transform the city into one of the safest in the Philippines. Duterte is known as "the Philippines Trump" because of his controversial remarks. He recently said human rights activists are "stupid" because they criticized his policy on criminals. Last year, the incoming president called Pope Francis a "son of a whore" for holding up Manila's traffic during his official visit. Duterte also said he should have been first to rape an Australian missionary murdered in a prison riot in 1989. By Park Si-soo At least 36 people have been killed and 147 wounded in a terror attack on Istanbul Ataturk Airport in Turkey, said Istanbul Governor Vasip Sahin early Wednesday (local time). Three bombers were also killed, the governor said. Another report, from semi-official news agency Anadolu, said six of the wounded are in critical condition. According to AP, "a terrorist at the international terminal entrance first opened fire with a Kalashnikov and then blew himself up." Citing Turkish officials, it said two attackers detonated explosives at the entrance of the international terminal after police fired at them. By Kim Da-hee English could lose official European Union (EU) language status after Brexit, according to reports Wednesday. The EU has 24 official languages and Britain's membership has been a key reason for the organization to keep English. Therefore U.K.'s departure from the EU means English's loss of ground for survival. "If we don't have the U.K., we don't have English," Danuta Hubner, chairwoman of the European Parliament's constitutional affairs committee, said at a press conference Monday. She said English was an official language only because Britain had nominated it. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker hinted at his support for the move by using only French and German in his Tuesday speech to the European Parliament. But not everybody seems to support the idea. Many EU officials consider it as no more than a "symbolic" move to protest Britain's vote to leave the EU. An easier-than-expected first mammogram experience HUNTERSVILLE Scheduling a cancer screening probably ranks somewhere on your to-do list between "clean out the garage" and "donate those clothes that don't fit." Sure, you'll get to it at... Chamber retreat helps discover strengths in communication The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce has proved that networking can come in many ways. It doesnt have to come at a luncheon or happy hour or Christmas party, but... Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera, on an official visit to Norway from 21-23 June, delivered the Opening Plenary Address at the 6th World Congress Against the Death Penalty in Oslo on 22 June, on the theme Progress and Setbacks in Asia: Lessons to be learnt. The World Congress Against the Death Penalty which takes place every 3 years, is organised by the association Ensemble contre la peine de mort (ECPM). The Minister of Justice, Wijedasa Rajapakse, also represented Sri Lanka at this meeting. Minister Samaraweera called on Prime Minister Erna Solberg and had meetings with Foreign Minister Brge Brende, Minister of Fisheries Per Sandberg, State Secretary Tore Hattrem and the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence in the Parliament of Norway. Prime Minister Solberg welcomed progress in Sri Lanka in reconciliation, strengthening democracy, good governance and economic development policy, and the efforts made to actively engage the Sri Lankan diaspora including in Norway in development efforts. The Prime Minister acknowledged the valuable contribution to Norway by the Sri Lankan community in the country. Discussions focused on follow-up to the visits of Foreign Minister Brge Brende and State Secretary Tore Hattrem to Sri Lanka this year, and ways and means of enhancing bilateral cooperation and collaboration including in focused areas such as the fisheries sector. Minister Samaraweera welcomed with appreciation the offer by Norway to provide assistance on fish stock assessment and conduct an oceanographic survey in collaboration with National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). A request was also made from Norway for assistance in developing a National Policy framework for the Fisheries sector. At the meeting with the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence chaired by Anniken Huitfeldt of the Labour Party, responding to questions raised, Minister Samaraweera briefed the Members of the Committee on the progress and achievements of the Government as well as plans on Constitutional reform, reconciliation and development. Emphasising the need for greater interaction and engagement between the legislatures of the two countries, the Minister invited the Members of the Standing Committee to visit Sri Lanka at a mutually convenient time. During the visit, the Foreign Minister participated in a business seminar at Innovation Norway in Oslo, attended by the Norwegian business community and potential investors with the objective of encouraging Norwegian businesses to invest in Sri Lanka. The Minister also spoke at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) on Advancing Reconciliation Diplomacy: Sri Lankan Perspective. Formal diplomatic relations between the two countries span 65 years. In 1977 Norway opened a NORAD office in Colombo recognizing Sri Lanka as an important development co-operation partner. Norways development assistance to Sri Lanka to-date totals over US$ 700 million. Read more Ministry of Foreign Affairs Colombo 23 June 2016 Ladies and Gentlemen, in fact all of you are aware, that on the 08th of January last year in a historic election, in fact what the world calls the rainbow election of 2015, the people of Sri Lanka voted for change, and for democracy, reconciliation and development, the three pillars on which the Government of President Maithripala Sirisena and Ranil Wickremesinghe are taking the country forward today.In fact on that day, the people of Sri Lanka chose free and fair elections, good governance and the rule of law over authoritarianism and impunity; they chose stability, reconciliation and peace over the politics of fear and hate which had prevailed for many, many years previously. And they eschewed isolationist crony capitalism for openness to the world and a competitive, transparent rules-based economy. In fact, this victory in January was repeated again in August where extremist political parties on all sides of the divide were again decisively defeated and for the first time in Sri Lankas history, the two principle political parties which have governed Sri Lanka since independence chose to be on the same side leaving aside the bitterness of the past. And also for the first time, the leader of the TNA, the party which represents the Tamil community in Sri Lanka was chosen as the leader of the opposition and thus I feel a new window of opportunity was opened for Sri Lanka after many years to rectify the mistakes of the past and go forward towards a new future. In fact as you all may be aware, when Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948; it was a country which the world believed will succeed in no time. I have seen an article written in the, I believe it was the London Times, the day after Sri Lanka gained independence from the British. The editorial in that paper says Ceylon, as it was called then, which gained independence will in no time become the Switzerland of the East because of its strategic location, because of its human and natural resources. Not only that, as recently as 1965, Lee Kuan Yew, the new Prime Minister of Singapore then having just broken away from the Malay Union presenting his first budget says that my ambition in 65 of course is to surpass the growth rate of Ceylon in the first five years meaning that we were way ahead of even Singapore at that time. But of course by 1983, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew went on to say that Sri Lanka is an example that no country should follow because we had all the opportunities, we had all the reasons to succeed but because we could not come to terms with our own diversity as a nation, what could have been easily solved at the early stages then became in to a bitter war and as a result, Sri Lanka again today has to I believe start, recommence that journey all over again, trying to catch up for lost opportunity. Because as I said, the new conjunctions have given Sri Lanka an opportunity it has never had for a long time. We have a Government which consists of the two principle parties. We have an opposition and a leader of opposition who represents the moderate aspirations of the Tamil people and other minorities of Sri Lanka and therefore we also have a Government which is indeed committed to the three pillars of governance as I mentioned earlier, that of democratization, of reconciliation and development. In fact again as some of you may know, we have achieved a considerable amount, many victories, in a short period of time in the area of democratization. Within the first 100 days itself, President Sirisena pruned down many of his executive powers as much as he could without going through a referendum as the Supreme Court requested. He reintroduced term limits for the Presidency. He again took away all the institutions like the Judiciary and the Public Service Commissions, the Corruption Commissions all out of the grip of Presidential rule and independent commissions are now functioning again and also committed himself to a new Constitution, not merely Constitutional Amendments, a new Constitution. Once a new Government was formed after the General elections, which as I said took place last August and in Jan 09th of this year when the President was celebrating his first year in office, we converted the Sri Lankan Parliament to a Constituent Assembly tasked with the objectives of drafting a brand new Constitution for Sri Lanka. That was because we felt that the two Constitutions which were in place since independence, the two Republican Constitutions of 1972 and 1978 did not take into account the diversity of Sri Lanka as a nation. As you know, Sri Lanka is a multi ethnic, multi religious, multi lingual, multi cultural nation. The Sinhalese and the Tamils have lived in Sri Lanka since history was written. The Muslim community came as traders and then lived there and had contributed immensely to the history of our country for the last 1000 odd years and we have other communities like the Burghers, the descendents of the Dutch and the Portuguese. We have the Malays and we even have indigenous Sri Lankans, the Veddas but unfortunately because the two earlier Constitutions were basically majoritarian in nature, we feel that paved the way for one of the most bitter civil wars Sri Lanka and the world in fact has ever seen and our Government, the non - recurrence being one of our primary objectives, first and foremost we must now create a Constitution which will celebrate the diversity of Sri Lanka and that is what we are doing now. In fact the first report of the consultations with the public was tabled last week in parliament. The work of the draft is going on very seriously and fairly quickly in parliament, in the Constituent Assembly. In fact we have told the people who are doing it that we would like to have the first white paper on the Constitution distributed sometime in September and hopefully before the budget of Sri Lanka which is usually presented in the late November. We are hoping to present, the new Constitution to parliament for ratification by a two thirds majority, which most probably will have to be again followed in the New Year by a referendum. But of course with both the principle parties working together on this, we are confident of the two thirds majority as well as Yes at a referendum in the future. Along with the new Constitution, we have also being bringing various new laws to strengthen the democratic framework. As I said the 19th Amendment which again freed all the legal mechanisms and the media, the Public Service Commission, and free media from interference from the government. In fact I wont be there for the vote but tomorrow even the Right to Information bill, which has been something which Sri Lanka has been wanting for long time, will be presented in Parliament and passed.And of course the other area in which we have been concentrating is the area of reconciliation, because without reconciliation as I mentioned Sri Lanka cannot achieve the promise it has. So that is why the new government was elected on a very strong mandate for reconciliation and a mandate also gave us power to start a domestic mechanism to inquire into the various allegations of human rights violations, perhaps even war violations during the earlier period. In fact, that is why Sri Lanka took the very bold step of co-sponsoring the resolution presented in Geneva by the United States initially. After discussions, we decided that co-sponsoring is the best way we can bring justice to those who need it in Sri Lanka. In fact, some people like to say that, specially the extreme nationalist wings which are still very much alive and kicking in Sri Lanka, with hand in glove with one or two ghosts from the past. They like to say that we did it under International pressure. I like to say to you ladies and gentlemen, No! it was not the resolution, the decision to co-sponsor the resolution and to commit ourselves to a reconciliation process. A process which will basically take into account (that) our past was taken not because of the international community but we as a Government feel that it is the only way Sri Lanka can move forward. The only way that is come into terms with our past so that we can move forward as a united nation. So in order to do so, we talked about 4 possible mechanisms. The mechanism to seek the truth, the truth seeking mechanisms. And the second one was a mechanism for accountability, for justice. The third one was of course reparation and the fourth one is to ensure non-recurrence, to ensure that some of the tragedies which took place in our beautiful little island in the last so many years since independence do not ever, ever happen again. So with that in mind, we have been working hard in the last several months, especially since the resolution was passed unanimously on the first of October last year. We have now in fact, the first of these mechanisms which we proposed, the Permanent Office for Missing Persons has now being finalized and also got unanimous approval by the Cabinet and the next step of publishing it as a government gazette was also completed two weeks ago in all three languages and the final step would be to present it in Parliament within the next month or so once the due time frames are completed. So the OMP or the Office for Missing Persons, I feel is a huge, massive step forward. Then of course, we have also created what is called the SCRM, Secretariat for Coordinating Reconciliation Mechanisms and that is working with leading members of the civil society, conducting consultations on the other mechanisms now. Consultations with all the stakeholders, the victims of the war, members of the armed forces, wives of the missing and the different political parties etc. That process has already started. Meanwhile we have been working with the government of South Africa about their experiences in setting up a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Of course we arent guided by the South African model of the TRC because we feel that a model based on confession and forgiveness which I believe, if I am to simplify the South African process which is not as simple, but is not what Sri Lankans want. Many of them want justice. So we are working out the contours of not only the TRC but as I said what should come afterwards is the setting up of the special courts. Of course theres a certain degree of controversy on how it should be setup and the level of international participation. That too will be decided after the consultations are over but all I can say now is whatever we decide upon, will and must have the approval, not only ourselves but of the victims those who suffered. This is not an exercise to please ourselves. So the final contours of the architecture of the courts we are hoping to set up will be in discussion. Especially with parties like the TNA and other groups which represent the victims. Along with that we have also taken certain steps to further kick start the process. As I said earlier, with the intention of de militarizing the North and the East immediately after coming into power, we appointed civilians, two highly respected civil servants as the Governors of the North. The demilitarizing process has started but of course not complete but we are now in the process of even giving back the land which has been taken over for military purposes over the years. In fact I know that during the course of this week another 700 acres will also be released. So far nearly 4000 acres but perhaps an equal amount of land remains to be released and that too we have told the military, that all must be released in a timeline going up to the end of 2018. Of course we did ratify the convention of enforced and involuntary disappearances for the first time and the enabling legislation will be presented to Cabinet, which is done by my Ministry, the moment I am back in Sri Lanka in July. Hopefully that will certainly confine the white van culture of terror we had earlier to the pages of history. Today in Sri Lanka, two Marxist insurgencies or two JVP insurgencies and one 26 year old war later, Sri Lanka has started a new journey towards what I would like to call a new Sri Lanka. In fact, the legacy of this bitter past, I feel has united us in a collective determination to prevent, the torment of such violence from ever reoccurring in our country again. Of course when you try to wrestle with a past of this nature, you still have to deal with the ghosts of the past. As I said you still have to deal with the old mindset which sometimes are entrenched in certain sections of the bureaucracy and sometimes its very frustrating because its not happening as quickly as we would like it to happen, but all I can say is Sri Lanka does have the will, whatever the challenges are to overcome all these difficulties and we have. In fact, again I dont want it (to be) like the monkey praising his own tail, (to) go on about the achievements we have made but in the short period of time, we have made some remarkable achievements and we are continuing to do so. But I saw some of our friends in the international arena call what we have done in this time as baby steps but to them Id like to say that even though it may look like baby steps to some of you in the international community, I think if I may paraphrase Armstrong going to the moon, Its a giant leap for Sri Lanka and we will move forward. From here I go to Geneva next week where I will be making a statement on what we are doing now and also the fact that the Government is united in its determination to come to terms with what happened earlier. Again certain newspapers and social media like to say that the President has one view, the Prime Minister has another, the Foreign Minister yet another but it is not so. We are working unitedly. In fact, those of you who heard President Sirisena addressing the nation on the 4th of February during the independence day of Sri Lanka this year, he said It is now time for us to seize the current opportunity that is before us to implement the provisions of the Geneva resolution, not because of International pressure, but because as a nation, we must implement these provisions for the sake of restoring the dignity of our nation, our people and our military, in order for Sri Lanka to regain her due position as a strong democracy among the community of nations. So we are moving ahead as I said with confidence and meeting the challenges head on. But of course if democracy and reconciliation is to succeed, we feel that the third part of our pillar, which we are moving the country the pillar of development, must also succeed. The people of Sri Lanka must now feel that their pockets are fuller, that they are better off economically, their standards of living has risen because of our open policy to the world and our policy of coming to terms with our past. That is why I am here and this morning I had the opportunity, (which) the ambassador arranged, a meeting where we addressed many investors who are willing to come to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a middle income country. We are no longer eligible for handouts or aid or grants. We must look after ourselves and in order to do so Foreign Direct Investment is of paramount importance in order to kick start the economy. Sri Lanka I would say has huge potential. In fact, Sri Lanka has been known as a paradise for tourists for a long, long time but now we also want to make Sri Lanka also a paradise for foreign investors. In fact we feel that it is strategically placed today. As the East or Asia grows in importance, we could be a strategic gateway to the Indian Ocean and to the Indian subcontinent. We have, even though our own market is relatively small. 21 million is our population, but we have Free Trade Agreements with both India and Pakistan. We are now in the process of negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with China and Japan which Im sure as I said earlier makes it an exciting gateway for investors from this part of the world to come there. We have been getting a lot of support from the West since the new government came into power. Theres a tsunami of goodwill Id like say but that good will must now transform itself into practical day to day realities and the best way you can help as I said is by choosing Sri Lanka as your destination of choice for investment for trade. We have ended the previous governments policy of self isolation and confrontation. Today we have embraced the world. We were totally dependent on China and China along for nearly 10 years but Im happy to say that we have restored our relations with our neighbor and friend, India to a level of excellence after many years. We have restored our ties with the European Union. In fact just last week the fishing ban imposed on Sri Lanka was restored unanimously in the European Parliament and yesterday we handed in our official application to have the GSP + concession restored. Earlier it was again taken away because we did not or we had violated many of the criteria, which was required to get it initially but now are ready to get it back again and offer and restore the thousands and thousands of jobs lost as a result of that. With the United States, we have raised our relations to a level we have never seen before and from this year we started the US Sri Lanka partnership dialogue in Washington in February with Secretary John Kerry. With Japan, President Sirisena was the first leader to be invited to the Outreach Summit ever in its history and all the G7 countries have promised to help us. If you want to know what kind of diplomacy Sri Lanka is following, I would like to go back to something Jawaharlal Nehru said in 1947. He said Whatever policy you may lay down, the art of conducting foreign affairs of a country lies finding out what is most advantageous to the country. So I think today it may sound very selfish but we arent ideologically driven but self interest is I would say is the driving force in our foreign policy. Because we want to ensure that the people of Sri Lanka, even at this late stage, get the future that they truly deserve. Finally thank you again, thank you very much for giving me this opportunity to go through some of the developments and I would like to invite all of you, (as) today there are no restrictions in visiting any part of the country. All the Norwegian people here, Im sure many of you have come here because you have an interest in the country and you should come back and see for yourselves. Of course for the Sri Lankans who are here, the Sri Lanka Diaspora who are here also, we would like to invite you to please come back and see for yourself and become partners in the forward march of your country. Full Video at Norwegian Institute of International Affairs YouTube site The SLFP does not condone the continuation of the Emergency Regulations (The Public Security Ordinance) more than a day necessary Read more Los Angeles Magazine photo. Los Angeles Magazine contributor Gabriel Kahn has been working on a midstream profile of Mayor Eric Garcetti for some time, and it landed online Wednesday. Kahn concludes that Garcetti has a mixed record in his first term as mayor and, as he heads into his reelection campaign, a fundamentally mixed hold on the city's hearts. "People see what he backs as a politician, but they dont see what hes willing to fight for," Kahn writes. "And they arent sure what drives him, whether he is more about ambition, using L.A. as a stepping-stone, or about a sense of mission to shape a better city." This is nowhere near as harsh a conclusion as when the same magazine (different writer, different editor) declared the midstream Antonio Villaraigosa a "failure" in a much-talked-about 2009 cover story, later reexamined and revised. Still, Kahn argues that the complexities in Garcetti's nature &dmash; he has aspirations for the city and his programs but eschews confrontation, even with ex-rivals and department heads don't provide him as strong as base to run for, say, governor or senator, as he might otherwise have. Lack of visible progress on the homeless is also an issue. A sample: Hes too smart to seem a lightweight, despite being almost perpetually sunny. He has the sheen of a politician but not much of the oiliness. Where other politicians walk around your policy questions, Garcetti answers them. In detail. Yet there remains the question of what drives the guy, what hed really go to the mat for. The answer has a lot to do with the future of L.A.... As we pull out of Watts and move onto the 110 freeway, the downtown skyline rises before us and the reddish glow of the setting sun reflects off the glass skyscrapers. Garcetti says at some point, What I think the average person wants is not a fight; they want to see something move forward in their own neighborhood. By lining up against something, he acknowledges, his predecessor made it easier for voters to understand what he was for, even if his actions produced scant results. Many of Garcettis big plans had languished under previous administrations. But whether it was the river, or getting rail to the airport, most of them enjoyed popular support. He hasnt tried to move the public in a direction it was reluctant to go, but hell have to if he wants to find the money to make those projects a reality while also cleaning up government and housing the homeless. The Yukon lurches into the fast lane, and I ask what he might have done differently in his first term. I dont live life with a ton of regrets, he says. I think in a couple areas I could have laid out vision more quickly. In some areas with staff, I realized, theyre actually waiting for me to just tell them. And thats what I was elected to do. Its a frank assessment, one that doesnt apply just to his staff. The question is whether a second term will enable Garcetti to lay out a clearer vision from the start and to act on iteven if it means making some enemies along the way. Thats assuming he even sticks around. Garcetti hedges on whether he will look toward one of the statewide offices open in 2018, less than a year after his reelection campaign will end. Among those quoted in the piece are USC's Dan Schnur, former Garcetti spokesman Josh Kamensky, Friends of the LA River founder Lewis MacAdams, former deputy mayor Torie Osborn and LAPD Chief Charlie Beck. Gary Toebben, CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, is included as an example of those who argue that Garcetti's tendency to mend fences "leads to indecision and undercuts his ability to force change. Says Toebben: "One of the reasons we didnt support him in the business community is that he cant make tough decisions. It almost pains him. Looks like a couple of dropped or misplaced paragraphs, but otherwise it seems to all be there. PRESS RELEASE Creating a Common Future for Mankind and a Renaissance of Classical Culture Schiller Institute International Conference, June 25-26, 2016, Berlin, Germany June 28, 2016 (Schiller Institute)The Schiller Institutes international two-day conference gathered more than 300 guests from 24 nations and four continents for an intense and profound dialogue on how to stop the immediate danger of world war, by creating instead a new paradigm of global cooperation and development, based on a dialogue of civilizations and the unique creativity of mankind. Conference participants were very highly alerted to the escalation of western geopolitical confrontation against Russia and China and the danger of thermonuclear war, and passed a resolution calling for an immediate end of sanctions against Russia and Syria. To end the war and to reconstruct war-torn Syria and the greater region of Southwest Asia, was a key focus of the conference, during which Dr. Bouthaina Shaaban, member of the presidency of Syria, addressed the conference audience and engaged in a moving Q&A via live stream . Conference participants were also invited to attend a "Musical Dialogue of Cultures," which was organized jointly by NICE e.V. and Schiller-Institut e.V. as a public, free-admission concert in a community church. The Camerata Geminiani, the international chorus of the Schiller Institute, and others performed classical European music in the Verdi tuning, along with choirs presenting folk songs from Russia, Ukraine, and China, before an excited audience of close to 500 guests and 150 musicians. It became clear, that only by creating a new paradigm of mankind, a renaissance of beauty, based on the sharing and promoting of each civilizations high points of their respective cultures, can humanity be saved from the abyss. Conference panels The first conference panel of five, "The strategic crisis is more dangerous than at the height of the Cold War," was addressed by Helga Zepp-LaRouche, founder and president of the Schiller Institute; Chas Freeman, former U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia; Col. (ret.) Alain Corvez, former advisor to the French Defense and Interior Ministries; Lt. Col. (ret.) Ulrich Scholz, former fighter pilot, NATO planner and lecturer on air warfare; and by American economist and statesman Lyndon LaRouche. Speaking on the second panel, "The crisis of the transatlantic financial system and how to overcome it," were Jacques Cheminade, candidate in the French presidential elections; Marco Zanni, head of the M5S delegation in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee of the European Parliament; Daisuke Kotegawa (Canon Institute Japan and former representative of Japan to the IMF); and Leonidas Chrysanthopoulos, former Greek ambassador to Poland, Canada, and Armenia, and former Secretary General of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC). The third panel, "The new paradigm represented by the One BeltOne Road Policy," heard Dr. Ren Lin, Researcher on the One Belt, One Road Policy at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) in China; H. E. Hamid Sidig, ambassador and extraordinary representative of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Germany; and Egbert Drews, board member of Marwiko AG/Berlin. Sundays deliberations continued the "Silk RoadNew Paradigm" panel, with a strong emphasis on Syria and the need to end geopolitical confrontation and foreign-funded terrorism, and to create peace and prosperity in the region. After hearing her prepared video speech on the situation in Syria, the audience had the extraordinary opportunity to engage in a moving 30-minute live video dialogue with H. E. Dr. Bouthaina Shaaban from the Presidency of the Syrian Arab Republic, who asked everybody to bring about a new paradigm of creative human development ("an intellectual Silk Road") instead of war and destruction. Michel Raimbaud (former French Ambassador to Arab, African, and Latin American countries and former director of the French Office of Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons, OFPRA) had opened the panel with a passionate plea to rebuild peace in accordance with international law in Syria and everywhere else. Hussein Askary, EIR Arabic editor, presented a video on the reconstruction of Aleppo in the context of the New Silk Road, followed by a discussion from Prof. Talal Moualla, board of trustees, The Syria Trust for Development, and Executive Director of "Syrian Cultural Heritage Transformation" project, Ministry of Culture in Syria. The panel was concluded by Bereket Simon, chairman of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and advisor to the Prime Minister, and by a video message from Fouad Al-Ghaffari, chairman of the Advisory Office for Coordination with the BRICS from the war-torn Republic of Yemen. Speaking on the fourth panel, "The frontiers of science: the new economic platform based on a fusion economy and mans future in space," were Adeline Djeutie, formerly employed with the IAEA and now an independent consultant from Vienna; Alain Gachet, chairman of Radar Technologies International; and Rainer Sandau, technical director of Satellites and Space Applications of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA). After a classical musical introduction, violinist Gian Marco Sanna, founder and artistic director of The Geminiani Project/London, contributed a discussion on the importance of the scientific musical tuning of A=432 Hz ("Verdi tuning"), which the Schiller Institue has promoted for decades. Hussein Askary presented the "Elephant Clock" as an example of the beauty of the Islamic Renaissance and its connection to the ancient Silk Road. The panelists then joined with Mrs. Zepp-LaRouche and Lyndon LaRouche for the concluding general discussion on how to secure a global collaboration for the common aims of mankind, by focusing on bringing forward the principle of creativity in each human individual, as the only way to stop the present mortal danger for civilization. For more, contact: Mrs. Leona Meyer-Kasai, Schiller-Institute Berlin, konferenz2016@schiller-institut.de. PRESS RELEASE How Long Has Paris, Brussels Bomber Worked for the British? June 29, 2016 (EIRNS)The London Sunday Times of June 26 published a stunning revelationthat the mastermind of the Paris and Brussels Islamic State terrorist assaults has been working for the British security services. The London Times report dated his work for the British MI5 or MI6 to after his capture in Brussels in April of this year, following the March 22, 2016, Brussels bombings. The 31-year-old man, Mohammed Abrini, was caught on closed circuit TV at the Brussels Airport, walking with the two suicide bombers just moments before they blew themselves up, killing 32 people. In November 2015, two days before the Paris massacre, Abrini was also captured on closed circuit TV driving into Paris with Salah Abdeslam, another ringleader of the Paris-Brussels terror cell. That attack resulted in 130 deaths. The Sunday Times reported that Abrini has been cooperating with British authorities, providing key information about terror plots in Britain. But the Daily Express reported that Abrini traveled to England in July 2015 and met with a dozen Islamist radicals in London, Manchester, and Birmingham, raising a question of when he started working for the British authorities. PRESS RELEASE Russian Diplomat: NATO Causing Confrontation with Russia June 29, 2016 (EIRNS)In Vienna, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksey Meshkov told yesterday's annual security review conference of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) that it is NATO that is openly converting interaction with Russia into confrontation. "The current state of affairs is dismaying," he said. "Ever more obvious is the high price of the lack of a stable and effective edifice of security that should have united the countries of Euro-Atlantic and Eurasia on the principle of indivisible security. NATO is openly converting interaction with Russia into the logic of confrontation. There is no other way of interpreting the alliances policy of building up the military potential on the eastern flank and the official policy of containing Russia." "U.S. plans for deploying a U.S. missile defense in Europe makes the strategic situation in Europe still worse," Meshkov. PRESS RELEASE Incoming Philippines Defense Minister: Fighting Terrorism More Important Than Confronting China June 29, 2016 (EIRNS)On Wednesday, a day before taking office, the incoming Philippine Defense Minister, Gen. (ret.) Delfin Lorenzana, said that crushing Islamist militants in the Philippines will take precedence over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, and spending on military hardware would reflect that. Ongoing kidnappings and the recent beheading of Western hostages by Abu Sayyaf rebels, who have sworn allegience to ISIS, were hurting the countrys reputation, and incoming President Rodrigo Duterte was frustrated by the failure to rein in the group, Lorenzana told Reuters. ISIS released a video last week calling on Southeast Asian Muslims to go to the southern Philippines to fight with Abu Sayyaf, as a target for a new "caliphate". Lorenzana said the military would invest in more speed boats and helicopters to help flush out the group based on southern Jolo island, rather than divert funds into maritime security regarding territorial claims with China in the South China Sea. He said the defense budget should be winning security at home rather than buying fighter jets to protect its waters, as the Philippines would not be going to war with any country. However, he said sovereignty is still a key issue. "We cannot ignore the West Philippine Sea [South China Sea] because that is in our mandate," he said. "Its both a resource and a sovereignty issue. "Our focus will be the Abu Sayyaf issue," Loenzana said. "Next will be to support the police in their all-out war against crime and drugs." Last week, President-to-be Rodrigo Dueterte and his economic team gave an overview of the proposed 10-point agenda of his economic plans in a two-day forum, where he highlighted the importance of Chinese investment. He called for Chinas assistance in constructing railways, telling Filipino businessmen, "Can you match the offer? Because if you cannot match the offer, I will accept the goodwill of China." Since China introduced the Belt and Road idea, it has yet to launch substantial collaboration with the Philippines. The inauguration of Duterte will provide a critical opportunity to implement the grand vision in this nation. No one can claim in absolute seriousness to be writing the Great American Novel, not without risking the polite smiles and muted derision of others. One says one is writing the Great American Novel the same way one announces a midlife crisis, with a faint air of the ridiculous. And to call someone elses book the Great American Novel can only lead to skepticism, especially as we live in an age where all these terms the, great, American, novel seem rife with potential for doubt. Instead, I offer a great American novel which does not even seem to be a candidate. It is two books rather than one, neither of which are possibly even novels, their America balanced with other places: Maxine Hong Kingstons The Woman Warrior (1976) and China Men (1980), a duo that she imagined could have been published as one volume. They mix one womans story with those of her extended Chinese immigrant family, blending nonfiction and fiction, legend and oral storytelling, history and imagination. One of the unspoken silences of the Great American Novel is the assumption that it can only be written by white men. Viet Thanh Nguyen Advertisement These are different genres separated by walls of form, which separate, for example, a novel from a memoir. Kingston scales those walls to see what lies beyond them. Such an impulse is not only aesthetic. It also emerges among the most daring and imaginative people who have been confined by walls, or kept out by them, whether they be women, misfits or minorities of any kind. Kingstons writing deals with all three. Facing walls, the conventional response is to ask to be let in or let out; the unconventional response is to question the very existence and meaning of walls. In the first line of The Woman Warrior, we are given a wall when the mother says to the daughter who writes the book, You must not tell anyone what I am about to tell you. This command and injunction is a barrier that is destroyed in the same sentence that it is mentioned, as the writer reveals what she has been ordered to keep silent and secret. Our Critics at Large pick their Great American Novels One of the unspoken silences of the Great American Novel is the assumption that it can only be written by white men. At least that is what the male-dominated literary establishment has historically told us, why some readers might only be able to name Melville, Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Faulkner, Updike, Bellow or Roth, why it shocked me to see for the first time, at 18, a book by an Asian American in a bookstore: The Joy Luck Club. For some readers, this is possibly a Great American Novel too. Amy Tan is Kingstons descendant, and in full disclosure, I was Kingstons student at Berkeley. But I was a bad student, a rebel who had not yet paid his dues. To be honest, I was also a young man unsteadied by strong women, and Kingstons books are indisputably feminist. I needed those books then, even if I did not know it. Giving us what we dont know we need, something we may even resist perhaps thats one definition of greatness. Nguyen is one of our Critics at Large State Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris has issued subpoenas to oil refiners as part of an investigation into unusually high gasoline prices in California during the last year. California drivers paid pump prices that have been as much as $1.50 higher than the rest of the nation since last summer. Gordon Schremp, senior fuels analyst for the California Energy Commission, said he was aware of Harris investigation of the states refiners. He said the attorney generals office has requested significant information dating back to 2015 on the oil refineries, their imports and exports. Advertisement Kristin Ford, a spokeswoman for Harris office, said she could neither confirm nor deny whether the agency is investigating the refineries; news of the probe was first reported Thursday by the Wall Street Journal. Harris is running against Rep. Loretta Sanchez for the seat of retiring Sen. Barbara Boxer. An advisory panel to the California Energy Commission has been reviewing gas prices over the last several months to determine what, if anything, lawmakers might consider to ensure that consumers arent being gouged at gas stations. The most recent surge in California fuel prices was largely driven by the outage at the Exxon Mobil Torrance refinery, which resulted from an explosion in February 2015, Schremp said. During the Torrance outage, California refiners reaped record net income, even as gasoline prices were falling elsewhere in the country. Beyond the Torrance outage, critics of the oil companies blamed manipulation of the gasoline market for exacerbating the price increase. There have been all kinds of major allegations, Schremp said. Ive seen [attorney general investigations] with all kinds of price spikes. I dont know of an incidence where theyve come back and said, yes weve found manipulation in the gasoline market. Catherine Reheis-Boyd, president of the Western States Petroleum Assn., said in a statement that the oil refineries will cooperate fully with any federal and state inquiries into Californias gas prices, and that her organization believes its members did nothing wrong. The petroleum industry is one of the most heavily regulated and closely monitored industries nationwide, Reheis-Boyd said. Over the past several decades, numerous investigations and expert market analysis have found no evidence of illegal activities or violation of anti-trust laws. I expect the conclusion will be consistent with past findings: market factors are the primary driver of fuel costs in California. Jamie Court, president of the advocacy group Consumer Watchdog, praised the move. Court has been pressing for an investigation since gasoline prices began to jump last summer. SIGN UP for the free California Inc. business newsletter We finally have an official legal inquiry on the way, Court said. Its going to result in answers that we should have had a long time ago. Courts said his questions include why an Exxon Mobil ship was not used to deliver gasoline to California as inventories depleted as the Torrance refinerys production level dropped below 20%. The Torrance refinery accounts for 10% of the states refined-gasoline capacity, and 20% of the capacity in Southern California. Production levels plummeted after the February explosion destroyed a pollution control system at the plant. Exxon Mobil, which is selling the Torrance plant to New Jersey-based PBF Energy, worked to bring the facility back online for almost a year and a half. Repairs have been completed and the sale to PBF Energy is expected to be completed Friday. Court said he believes the oil refiners used Torrances troubles to manipulate gas prices and limit gasoline supply in the market. I do think the SR American Progress was the poster child for the problem. Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog One piece of evidence for that belief, he said, was the fact that Exxon Mobil had a ship, the SR American Progress, sitting off the coast of the Singapore for 70 days instead of using it to bring gasoline to the California market. Singapore has refineries that produce Californias special blend of environmentally friendly gas. I do think the SR American Progress was the poster child for the problem, Court said. Exxon Mobil has disputed Courts allegation about the ship, and a refiner trade group representative previously denied any market manipulation by state refiners. Todd Spitler, an Exxon Mobil spokesman, on Thursday declined to discuss whether the company had received a subpoena from Harris office. Gas prices in California typically run higher than the rest of the country due to higher-than-average taxes and fees, requirements to produce special low-pollution blends and the relatively small number of refineries in the state. But last summer the gap between the Los Angeles area prices and the rest of the country set records. For instance, California refineries reaped an average of 49.3 cents on a gallon of gasoline from 1999 to 2014, according to the California Energy Commission. But in summer 2015, the average ballooned to 88.8 cents, triggered when the refinery troubles in February of that year disabled 7% of the states capacity at a time of low inventories. Gas prices remain higher than expected, about 68 cents higher in the L.A. area than the rest of the nation. Schremp said the price gap is due to other recent refinery outages, most of which have been short-lived. ivan.penn@latimes.com For more energy news, follow Ivan Penn on Twitter: @ivanlpenn MORE BUSINESS NEWS Historic theaters gain new life as retail stores Behind shrinking middle-class jobs: A surge in outsourcing Dont drive these Hondas and Acuras unless dangerous air bags are fixed, government warns UPDATES: 1:45 p.m.: This article has been updated with comments from Catherine Reheis-Boyd, president of the Western States Petroleum Assn. This article was originally published at 12:47 p.m. To design his presidential library, Barack Obama has chosen a pair of New York architects whose cool, precise style in some ways mirrors his own. The Barack Obama Foundation announced today that Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, a firm best known for the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia and the recently demolished American Folk Art Museum in New York, had prevailed in a design competition for the library, which is expected to open in 2021. TWBTA will work with the Chicago firm Interactive Design Architects, headed by Dina Griffin, on the project. Advertisement The foundation has yet to select a site for the library. Two locations on the South Side of Chicago are under consideration. A decision on the site is likely before the end of the year, at which point the design process will get fully underway. The work of TWBTA is notable for its precision, its craftsmanship and the heft and quality of its material palette. In formal terms its buildings are reserved, with straightforward geometry rather than sweeping curves or virtuosic gestures. In a media conference call, the foundations executive director, Robbin Cohen, said more than 140 firms around the world answered a request for qualifications issued last year. In December the foundation announced a shortlist of seven firms including Italian Renzo Piano, Chicago architect John Ronan and London architect David Adjaye. The architecture critic Paul Goldberger, an advisor to the foundation, called Williams and Tsien truly among the greatest architects of our time and also among the most thoughtful. If anything characterizes their work its a combination of dignity, beauty and understatement. The firm has been in the middle of two recent controversies, though neither revolved around its design work per se. The Folk Art Museum drew critical acclaim when it opened in 2001 but was demolished in 2014 by the Museum of Modern Art to smooth the way for an expansion of the larger museum. TWBTAs new complex for the Barnes Foundation in the center of Philadelphia replaced the original Barnes building in suburban Merion, Penn. That move went against the desires of the museums late founder, Albert C. Barnes, to keep the extensive collection in place after his death. An additional layer of controversy involved the decision to build copies of the old Merion galleries inside TWBTAs new museum, producing an odd sort of architectural simulacrum that allowed the paintings to be hung just as they had in their original setting. Of all TWBTAs work, foundation officials said, the Barnes, the LeFrak ice-skating center in Brooklyn and the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts at the University of Chicago impressed the president and First Lady Michelle Obama the most. The firm is also at work on a new American embassy in Mexico City. Its C.V. Starr East Asian Library opened on the UC Berkeley campus in 2008. Its important to keep in mind that the process was intended to select an architect, not a design for a building, Goldberger said. While all seven [finalists] showed some conceptual ideas for a building, the real design process begins anew right now. Its really a blank slate. christopher.hawthorne@latimes.com Most nights on Hollywood Boulevard, the urban soundtrack blends together the dull thump of music spilling out from bars, the raucous laughs of club kids and the plaintive mumbles of panhandlers in need of a buck. For much of June, there was also the sound of a typewriter, its clicks and clacks echoing amid the bong shops and T-shirt emporiums of one of Americas most famous tourist strips. The sound, amplified by a microphone, was part of a performance by Los Angeles artist Tim Youd, who for roughly the last four years has been retyping great English-language novels one by one in different locations. Youd functions as a sort of living exhibition. Most nights during the second half of June he was seen through the street-front window of Hollywood Boulevards Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions, retyping John Rechys infamous hustler novel City of Night on an old Underwood Model S. Advertisement This week, he begins retyping another Rechy novel: Numbers, about a protagonist named Johnny Rio, who cruises Griffith Park in search of anonymous sexual encounters as he comes to terms with his past and his sexuality. See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour Youd has long made drawings and paintings, many of them inspired by words and literature. But four years ago, inspired by books their literal shape and the methods in which they are produced as well as a meaningful pilgrimage to Ernest Hemingways house in Key West, he began to tackle the idea of the book in a series of performances titled the 100 Novels Project. For these, Youd retypes entire novels onto one double-layer sheet of paper (the second layer to catch seeping ink) with the same model typewriter used by the writer of the novel. (This means the Underwood for Rechy, a Royal Quiet Deluxe for Charles Bukowski and an Underwood Universal for William Faulkner.) Each of these performances is held in a location that is somehow connected to the book. In the case of Faulkner, Youd traveled to the authors home in Mississippi. He typed Bukowskis Post Office at the U.S. Post Office Terminal Annex in downtown Los Angeles, where Bukowski worked for 14 years. Hollywood Boulevard is key to Rechys City of Night, which opens with the line, Later I would think of America as one vast City of Night, stretching gaudily from Times Square to Hollywood Boulevard . For Numbers, he will materialize daily at the Fern Dell Drive entrance to Griffith Park, where starting Wednesday he will retype the novel at a portable table. Thats the entrance that led to the area where a lot of the cruising went on, says Youd. And some people say that it even goes on today. Ive seen a pretty bad fistfight. Ive had people dancing for me in the windows a little twerking. Tim Youd, artist Tim Youd retypes John Rechys City of Night in the windows of Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions early this month. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times ) Youd creates related works as evidence of his performances: Sculptures of typewriters crafted from cardboard, abstract geometric paintings made from the spent typewriter ribbons he accumulates and mounted works that feature the inky, blackened, shredded sheets of paper employed in the typing process. In this lightly edited conversation, Youd takes some time away from the keys to discuss the origins of his project, what hes learned about reading and literature in the process, and the weirdest stuff hes seen in Hollywood during his solitary overnights at LACE. You have now spent countless nights on Hollywood Boulevard, retyping Rechys novel. What have you seen? Ive been flashed. Ive been mooned. Ive seen a pretty bad fistfight. Ive had people dancing for me in the windows a little twerking. I see a lot of club-goers because Im right next to a couple of clubs. I see tourists. Earlier in the evening, I get more families. Every now and again Ill get a family at 2 in the morning with kids which is interesting to me. And of course I get people who are intoxicated or strung out or mentally disturbed. You get the city in all of its glory and its pain. While it can have a carnivalesque atmosphere, there has also been a good deal of real engagement in terms of people stopping to try to understand what Im doing. I have regulars who know me and give me the thumbs-up when they walk by. How did the idea come about to retype novels as a work of performance? There were a couple of things that were at play. Reading for me, even when I was not an artist, that was my default activity whether I was happy and looking for enrichment or unhappy, looking for escape. One day I realized, looking at a book on a formal level, that a book is a rectangle of black text within a rectangle of a white page. So I thought, How could I squash the book? Could you squeeze it until you get all of the words of the book onto one page? At first I thought, Should I hand-write it? Then I thought, A book is typeset, so Ill use a typewriter. Youd creates sculptures of the typewriters different novelists have worked on such as this cardboard rendering of the Underwood Rechy used. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times ) Id also read somewhere that Hunter S. Thompson, when he decided to be a writer, he typed [F. Scott Fitzgeralds] The Great Gatsby and [Hemingways] The Sun Also Rises out on a typewriter. And so I went and bought an IBM Selectric and I did Hunter S. Thompsons Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. I proceeded to put all of the words on one page, with a second page behind it. I did one and I thought, This is interesting. Im going to explore it a bit more. As it evolved, I realized that I wanted to do more than just a few it could be an idiosyncratic literary pilgrimage, in places that relate to the writer and the novels life. For me, it was about how I can become a better reader as I walk through this thing. What led you to choose Rechys book for the project? A couple of years ago, Sarah Russin, who runs LACE, came to my studio and she asked if I would propose something. And I thought, Hollywood Boulevard, that could be interesting. I had become aware of City of Night many years ago probably through knowing about how it inspired the Jim Morrison song L.A. Woman. I picked it up and really started to read it. Its a great novel. Its fundamentally so honest. Its such a revealing, unflinching portrait of this person who is putting himself out there in a way that is so unguarded. Thats hard to find. And its hard to find that kind of narrative married to an author who is very stylistically capable. The novel is a stylistic masterpiece. Its not a piece of outsider art. Its a work done by someone who is very literate and very well read, but it tells the story of an outsider: A hustler who was in danger of being arrested, who is in danger of being killed and all of the things that played into it at the time. What have you learned about Rechys work by retyping it? Stylistically, he has a few things that he does that I think probably would have gotten beaten out of him if he had gone to writing school. [Laughs.] Theyd say, You cant do this stuff! Like not using punctuation, using a lot of ellipses, changing the tone of the narrator, flashing forward and backward within a paragraph, changing tense within a paragraph. Its very unorthodox. But its very effective because if youre willing to grapple with it, then you understand this state of anxiety and deep doubt. This narrator is engaged in this life and hes struggling to make sense of it. And he comes to provisional conclusions about whether there is meaning in life or if he will experience something more than fleeting encounters with faceless people. Its like nothing Ive read. Reading for me, even when I was not an artist, that was my default activity whether I was happy and looking for enrichment or unhappy, looking for escape. Tim Youd, artist Youd works in the windows of LACE from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times ) Out of all of the books that youve typed, which has surprised you the most? The one that surprised me the most in the positive sense is Walker Percys The Movie Goer. Its only a couple of hundred pages, but the feedback Id gotten on it over time from people was, I couldnt finish that. Its a book that demands rereading. You have to bring your best to it. It does not yield easily. He sets up a crisis and then keeps deferring the crisis. Theres a tension that dissipates and then it builds and then it dissipates. And theres this search for something that is unidentifiable because it cant be described. Its a lot of work to read it. When I retyped it, I felt like I got it and it shot right up my list of amazing novels. A lone passerby watches artist Tim Youd retype John Rechys City of Night in its entirety. (Carolina A. Miranda / Los Angeles Times ) I understand Rechy came to the opening night performance at LACE. What was his reaction? I met him about a year or so earlier through Sarah Russin. He and his partner welcomed us and they pulled out the typewriter that John used to type City of Night. He had it all nice and bagged up. Its been very important to him. He gave me his blessing. I told him I wanted him to come, but he wanted to be low-key. He came like halfway through the performance. He saw the typewriter and he saw me typing and he gave me this huge grin. I think he was pleased that I had a devotion to his work and that I was doing it in a place that has memories for him. Its the first time Ive typed with the author around. There arent too many typewriter authors left. So to have him come and celebrate it with me, it was pretty special. Tim Youd, 100 Novels Project Where: Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions (LACE), 6522 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood When: Youd will retype Numbers at the Fern Dell Dr. entrance to Griffith Park daily starting July 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: welcometolace.org ALSO: John Rechys City of Night turns 50 As Gronks set designs go on view at CAFAM, the artist talks opera, painting and B-movie crab monsters Neil Gaiman on making art, mistakes and his View from the Cheap Seats Behind the plummeting rankings and defections of faculty and MFA students at USCs Roski art school Find me on Twitter @cmonstah. UPDATES: 5:46 p.m. July 5: This article has been updated with information about Tim Youds move to Griffith Park to retype John Rechys Numbers. This article was originally published at 12:58 p.m. June 30. A Massachusetts judge on Thursday put off a decision on whether to toss out a lawsuit that challenges the mental competency of mogul Sumner Redstone, keeping alive a contentious fight over the future of media company Viacom Inc. Viacom Chief Executive Philippe Dauman brought the lawsuit late last month after he and another longtime associate were booted from their involvement with Redstones trust and his familys holding company, National Amusements Inc. After hearing arguments from both sides for nearly six hours Thursday, Probate and Family Court Judge George Phelan said he had a lot of information to digest before ruling on a motion to dismiss the lawsuit. Advertisement He asked for affidavits, transcripts and documents related to a case in May in which a Los Angeles judge ruled that Redstone made it clear that he did not want his former companion, Manuela Herzer, in charge of his healthcare. In that case, Redstone said he wanted his daughter Shari Redstone in charge of healthcare decisions. The Massachusetts case is expected to determine whether the ailing 93-year-old billionaire knew what he was doing when he ousted Dauman and Viacom board member George Abrams from their influential roles helping to steer his $40-billion media empire. Dauman has argued that Redstone was in a weakened medical state when he ousted the men and that he was being manipulated by his daughter, a longtime Dauman foe. Redstones attorneys have called those claims spurious and sought to dismiss the case. Most of the arguments at Thursdays hearing focused on the venue for a trial, if it goes forward. Daumans side wants a hearing in Massachusetts, where National Amusements Inc. is based and the trust that eventually will oversee Redstones stock holdings was established. Redstones attorneys want the case adjudicated in California, where the mogul has resided since 2003 and most of his medical support staff is situated. He would also have a right to a jury trial in the state. Phelan asked more than a dozen questions during Thursdays proceedings, including inquiries about the background of Redstones doctors and speech therapist and whether the mogul drove himself when he recently visited executives at Viacoms Paramount Pictures and CBS. The judge also sought details on the interactions between Redstone and his daughter. In their lawsuit, Dauman and Abrams contend that Redstone, who struggles to speak coherently, suffers from a neurological disorder with symptoms that resemble dementia. They say a fit Redstone would not have dumped two longtime advisors, particularly after he asserted for years that he wanted professional managers to help oversee his holdings. Theyve asked for a medical evaluation to determine Redstones mental capacity. Phelan has not yet ruled on that request. However, representatives of Redstone and his daughter have argued that the former Viacom chairman is making his own decisions and has authority to remove Dauman and Abrams from their positions. Lawsuits have been filed in three states -- Massachusetts, Delaware and California -- but the Massachusetts case is expected to take center stage in deciding whether Redstone has the mental capacity to make complex business decisions. At Thursdays hearing, Elizabeth Burnett, an attorney for Shari Redstone, said the lawsuit from Dauman would only further disparage her client, who has been accused of being a puppet master for her ailing father. If there is a trial, there will be character assassinations of Shari, and they will be wrong, Burnett told the court. There is nothing undue about a 93-year-old father getting advice, companionship or influence from his daughter. Noting reports that Redstone was estranged from his daughter until recently, Burnett said the two have had disagreements but that there were more agreements than disagreements. Attorneys for Dauman and Abrams continued to present a grim picture of Redstones physical condition, noting that he requires around-the-clock nursing care, uses a feeding tube and cannot speak intelligibly. Pierce ODonnell, who represents Redstones granddaughter Keryn, who is backing Dauman and Abrams, cited the moguls signature on correspondence submitted to the court. That flat line signature is a tragically apt metaphor for Mr. Redstones mental capacity, ODonnell said. Burnett later disputed that depiction, noting that though Redstone requires a speech therapist to interpret him, he follows the dealings of his company by watching the CNBC financial news cable channel. The idea of him being a living ghost is a good sound bite, she said. But its not true. stephen.battaglio@latimes.com meg.james@latimes.com On Lindsay Lohans last landmark birthday, her 21st, she celebrated the day quietly in one of her many trips to rehab. Nine years and many dramatic headlines later, things are looking a whole lot different for the onetime celebrity train wreck as she turns 30. I have learned a lot over time. I am in a wonderful place in life and look forward to the near and far future and projects that I am working on, the July 2 birthday girl told Vanity Fair via email from London, which shes been calling home since late 2014. She said shell celebrate the big day in Greece, with family and friends. Advertisement What a difference a decade makes? Ten years back, Lohan was still riding her Mean Girls role and raising a toast to the beginning of her tabloid-friendly period. I wouldnt call things regrets, per se, she told the magazine. I cant turn back time. But if I could, I would have listened more to my mother and gone back home to N.Y.C. earlier in life and chosen my friends more wisely. In early July 2007, when she finally hit the legal drinking age, Lohan was a veteran of AA meetings and doing a stint at Promises in Malibu. Three weeks later, after a brief car chase in Santa Monica, she was arrested on suspicion of DUI for the second time that year. She wouldnt be off formal probation for almost five years, with time added for violating probation with a jewelry theft in 2011, but even that respite in March 2012 was short-lived. In July of that year, she got into a wreck on Pacific Coast Highway and, after cutting a plea deal in March 2013 on charges of reckless driving and lying to the police, she was back on probation, with months more rehab thrown in the mix. Her community-service drama would continue until May 2015, well after her OWN network docu-series aired and she had her stage debut in London, taking on Speed-the-Plow. In London, she told Vanity Fair, shes writing a book, making more movies, starting a charity, working with children a lot and thinking about maybe having some kids of her own. Did we forget spending time with someone special? Thatd be 23-year-old beau Egor Tarabasov, who stands to inherit a Russian business empire. Her coming birthday is different because she is actually celebrating it, she said. I thought I would be hiding when I realized I was turning 30! Its different because the way I live my life is different, which I am very grateful for. ALSO: Lindsay Lohans drama, the early years (in case you were busy in 2006-2010) Reports that Lindsay Lohan and Egor Tarabasov got engaged arent true, her rep says Follow Christie DZurilla on Twitter @theCDZ. Netflix has ordered up a 10-episode remake of the 1960s series Lost in Space from Legendary TV. But will they keep their silvery space suits and robot? Announced via press release, writers Matt Sazama and Burk Sharpless (Dracula Untold, Gods of Egypt) join show runner Zack Estrin (Prison Break) to reboot the series, which ran from 1965-68, with a release date set for 2018. The new show will once again center on the Robinson family, space pioneers who are lost in the big black abyss when theyre thrown off their mission. Advertisement As for the tone, it sounds like the crew will try and adhere to the original stakes, along with dashes of humor. The original series so deftly captured both drama and comedy, and that made it very appealing to a broad audience. Cindy Holland, Netflix vice president of original content, said in the official press statement. The current creative teams reimagining of the series for Netflix is sure to appeal to both fans who fondly remember the original and to create a new generation of enthusiasts around the world. This is not the first time Hollywood has tried to revive the Robinsons. But if Netflix wasnt scared off by William Hurt, Gary Oldman and Matt LeBlancs super serious Lost in Space movie re-imagining from 1998, a family-centric space drama shouldnt be too frightening. meredith.woerner@latimes.com 5 burning questions raised by the largest academy invitee class The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences added 683 new members Wednesday, more than doubling last years record number of invitees. The dramatic action spurred many questions. Here are answers to five of them. How does the academy notify invitees? I saw a bunch of people say that they found out on Twitter. That was indeed the case with producer Mynette Louie and documentary filmmaker Dawn Porter. The academy emailed the 683 prospective members prior to Wednesdays announcement, using the contact information provided on the application. Sometimes that info isnt a personal account, but an email address for an agent, manager or publicist. Sometimes people dont check their email. Call it one of lifes better surprises. Some of these invitees have pretty thin resumes. Dont you need more credits to get into the academy? Each of the academys 17 branches has specific requirements to become a member. Oscar nominees receive prime consideration, though they arent automatically admitted. (We still have no idea why Babel nominee Rinko Kikuchi hasnt been invited to the party yet.) Beyond the minimum requirements, most branches have a provision that allows them to invite anyone they damn well please. If they have achieved unique distinction, earned special merit or made an outstanding contribution in their field, in the opinion of the branchs executive committee, theyre in. Read More Alfred Hitchcock, after seeing Jaws, said that young Steven Spielberg is the first one of us who doesn't see the proscenium arch. By which to say that free of the theatrical conventions that informed every other filmmaker before him, Spielberg was the first truly modern director. Since then, he has emerged as a Hollywood force unlike any other, one of the first filmmakers since Hitchcock whose name has become a brand, and whose films have made $9.1 billion worldwide. As the 69-year-old releases the 29th feature film he has directed, The BFG, we look back on his work to see which of those movies rise to the top. 1. Jaws (1975) Jaws (Universal Pictures) (Universal Pictures ) It is actually disconcerting that Spielberg was this good this fast. All the elements that would make him a singular Hollywood talent were already in place: his love of family dynamics, his patience with character, his command of tone and his unquenchable desire to entertain at all costs. Its just a fish story -- but also the best fish story ever made. 2. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) Raiders of the Lost Ark (Lucasfilm Ltd. ) (Lucasfilm Ltd. ) Legend has it that Spielberg always wanted to make a James Bond picture, but couldnt -- on account of him not being British and theyre sticklers about such things in Bondville. So he and George Lucas (who wanted to indulge his love for old movie serials) hatched this, the most perfect distillation of cinematic pulp and crackerjack thrills yet committed to film. 3. Saving Private Ryan (1998) Saving Private Ryan (David James) (David James ) Perhaps the most visceral evocation of the chaos of war in movies to date. Even the schmaltzy bookends -- in which the Pvt. Ryan of the title looks back on the mission that saved him -- cant detract from its power. 4. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) Spielberg directs Henry Thomas, right, on the set of E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial (Bruce McBroom / Universal Studios) (Bruce McBroom / Universal Studios ) Divorce. Children. Loss. Fear. Hope. Candy. G-men. Bikes. Tears. Home. 5. Schindler's List (1993) Schindlers List (David James / NBC) (David James / NBC ) Serious Spielberg wrestles with sentimental Spielberg here and emerges victorious, for the most part. And yet, there are indelible sequences in here, all adding up to a film of rare and ghastly power. 6. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) Close Encounters of the Third Kind (Unknown Photographer) (Unknown Photographer ) Spielbergs mother was a concert pianist and his father was an engineer and computer scientist. So its fitting that for the first film Spielberg wrote by himself, humanity communicates with aliens through music processed by computers. 7. Jurassic Park (1993) Jurassic Park (Universal) (Universal ) The first two acts of this generationally defining pop confection are so taut, so elemental in their monsterific glee that you almost dont mind that the third act abruptly wraps up thanks to an incredibly convenient deus ex T. rex. 8. War of the Worlds (2005) War of the Worlds (Frank Masi / Paramount Pictures / DreamWorks) (Frank Masi / Paramount Pictures / DreamWorks ) Few movies made in the immediate wake of 9/11 were able to capture the kind of ground-level dread that permeates this take on H.G. Wells 1897 alien-invasion yarn. 9. Lincoln (2012) Lincoln (David James / DreamWorks) (David James / DreamWorks ) A towering look at a towering man, Spielbergs somber, restrained portrait of our 16th president doesnt have the emotional heft of, say, Schindlers List, but it reveals a filmmaker confident in his one-of-a-kind gifts. 10. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (Lucasfilm Ltd.) (Lucasfilm Ltd. ) Best not to think about the fact that Sean Connery and Harrison Ford are only 12 years apart and are playing father and son, and just enjoy the last good Indiana Jones movie. 11. Catch Me If You Can (2002) Catch Me If You Can (Andrew Cooper / DreamWorks Pictures) (Andrew Cooper / DreamWorks Pictures ) Few things are as fun as watching Spielberg have fun, and this romp -- featuring Leonardo DiCaprio at his least insufferable playing real-life con man Frank Abagnale Jr. -- is a hoot. 12. Minority Report (2002) Minority Report (David James / DreamWorks) (David James / DreamWorks ) Despite his reputation as a genre filmmaker, Spielberg spends far more of his screen time looking back rather than forward. So when he did conjure a vision of the future -- for this Tom Cruise-starring adaptation of a Philip K. Dick thriller -- it was tactile and vibrant. 13. Bridge of Spies (2015) Bridge of Spies (Jaap Buitendijk / DreamWorks) (Jaap Buitendijk / DreamWorks ) Its like a maker of fine watches made a fine watch: Bridge is an expertly machined piece of Cold War storytelling with an Oscar-winning performance from Mark Rylance at its core. No more, no less. 14. The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) ''The Lost World: Jurassic Park (David James / Universal) (David James / Universal ) Spielberg has said that he regretted never making the Jaws sequels, which is why he returned for this Jurassic follow-up. Despite a couple of remarkable sequences (like the raptor attack in the tall grasses; the RV-over-a-cliff gambit), however, its a sequel in search of a reason to exist. 15. The Sugarland Express (1974) Like so many debut feature films, Spielbergs was a road movie -- following parents (Goldie Hawn and William Atherton), who in the process of saving their son from a foster-home fate start an interstate crime spree. 16. A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001) A.I. Artificial Intelligence (Merrick Morton / 20th Century Fox) (Merrick Morton / 20th Century Fox ) Picking up where the late Stanley Kubrick left off, Spielberg tried to graft his innate sense of warmth and humanity to Kubricks remote chilliness for this story of a boy robot left to fend for himself in a mechanical underworld. And the two ethoses never quite harmonize. 17. The Adventures of Tintin (2011) The Adventures of Tintin (WETA Digital Ltd. / Paramount) (WETA Digital Ltd. / Paramount ) The first animated film Spielberg directed is a minor, if diverting, globe-trotting trifle. 18. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (Lucasfilm Ltd.) (Lucasfilm Ltd. ) Theres a streak of cruelty shot throughout this film -- which pits Indiana Jones against an Indian cult leader who imprisons an army of child laborers and is fond of cutting hearts out -- that chafes. 19. Empire of the Sun (1987) Most notable for introducing us to Christian Bale -- who was just 12 when he played a young British lad lost in Shanghai during the Japanese invasion of China during World War II. 20. Munich (2005) Munich (Karen Ballard / Universal) (Karen Ballard / Universal ) Its an amazing moment in history when, in the wake of the 1972 massacre of Israeli Olympians, Israel tasked a team of assassins to exact vengeance. Its a stately, well-executed film -- which got five Oscar nominations -- but for a movie about revenge, there isnt enough blood going to it. 21. The Color Purple (1985) The Color Purple (Unknown Photographer) (Unknown Photographer ) Spielberg got quite a bit of flak for making a movie so quintessentially about the black experience, and there are stretches of his adaptation of Alice Walkers Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that bear the hamfistedness of, perhaps, a filmmaker trying to overcompensate -- but it also gave us Whoopi Goldbergs astonishing film debut. 22. War Horse (2011) War Horse (Andrew Cooper / DreamWorks) (Andrew Cooper / DreamWorks ) An ambitious, if totally inconsequential, World War I drama about, you know, a horse. 23. Hook (1991) Hook (Murray Close / TriStar Pictures) (Murray Close / TriStar Pictures ) You want a movie about Peter Pan to soar -- this one, starring Robin Williams as a grown up Pan returning to Neverland to rescue his own children, is as landlocked as Captain Hooks Jolly Roger. 24. The Terminal (2004) The Terminal (DreamWorks) (DreamWorks ) We get it. Sometimes, you wanna make a movie in your proverbial backyard, rather than decamp to some foreign country. Sometimes, you just wanna make an Oscar winner do a funny accent, as a man trapped in an airport for decades. Thats all cool. But not, it turns out, that interesting to watch. 25. Always (1989) Always (Universal Studios) (Universal Studios ) Holly Hunter, Richard Dreyfuss, John Goodman and Audrey Hepburn -- rarely has such a cast been assembled for less. 26. Amistad (1997) Amistad (Dreamworks) (Dreamworks ) Because, if you are going to attempt to tell a story about slavery in America, about the Middle Passage, it shouldnt be about the white guy. 27. 1941 (1979) 1941' (Universal Studios) (Universal Studios ) Just because a person is fun doesnt mean theyre funny. And just because a director makes movies with a sense of humor doesnt mean they should make comedies. 28. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008) Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (David James / Paramount Pictures) (David James / Paramount Pictures ) Yeah, no. MORE: John Williams: Five underrated scores by the AFI-honored composer 'The BFG': Mark Rylance reunites with Steven Spielberg and astonishes anew Steven Spielberg on returning to making films, like 'The BFG', that let him create new worlds @marcbernardin The Innocents soars above its seeming contradictions. A gripping psychological drama based on events more than half a century old, it has inescapable contemporary echoes. Laced with intensely emotional situations, it refuses to force the issue by pushing too hard. And it proves, yet again, that though moral and spiritual questions may not sound spellbinding they often provide the most absorbing movie experiences. Directing and co-writing this compelling Franco-Polish story of the nature of belief and the way war collapses the gap between the sacred and the profane is veteran French filmmaker Anne Fontaine. Best known recently for films like Coco Before Chanel and The Girl From Monaco, Fontaine returns here to the tauter style of earlier works like How I Killed My Father and 1997s Dry Cleaning. Inspired by the journal notes of Madeleine Pauliac, a young French Red Cross doctor who worked in Poland at the end of World War II, The Innocents (which was called Agnus Dei when it debuted at Sundance) has quite a story to tell, and in Fontaine (who shares writing credit with Pascal Bonitzer, Sabrina B. Karine and Alice Vial) it has a director who knows precisely how to tell it. Advertisement The Innocents is set in December 1945, six months after the end of the European war, in a Poland occupied by Russian troops. It begins quietly, in a Benedictine convent during one of the communitys seven daily sung prayer sessions. These sounds are pure and transporting, and the film returns to them frequently to counterpoint the ugliness that defines the outside world. Suddenly, a woman screams, again and again. The nuns do not react, theyve clearly heard it before, but when prayer is over a novice sneaks out and takes a long journey on foot to a nearby town in search of a doctor who is not Polish and definitely not Russian. Almost by chance the novice is directed to Mathilde (Lou de Laage), a French Red Cross doctor in the country to aid wounded French soldiers. Very reluctantly, Mathilde is convinced to return to the convent, where she meets the French-speaking Sister Maria (Agata Buzek) and the convents iron-willed Mother Abbess (Agata Kulesza, the Communist aunt in Ida) and hears a horrifying story. Occupied by Russian soldiers near the end of the war, the convent was the site of multiple rapes, which resulted in more than half a dozen nuns becoming pregnant. These women are in great need of medical attention they cannot get from Polish doctors because exposure would likely mean the closure of the convent and shame for the individuals involved. Even providing medical treatment is difficult because the nuns vows discourage physical contact and revealing the body, even to a female doctor, and the threat of renewed attacks by soldiers is ever present. And that is not the half of it. For the inconceivable nightmare that has happened to these women affects their faith in any number of different ways. Reactions include shame, denial, hysterics and fear of damnation with comments ranging from were in the hands of Providence to I dont want to go to hell. For her part, Mathilde, the only doctor the Mother Abbess will allow inside, has difficulties of her own to face. She has to hide what she is doing from her superiors at work, deal with any number of crises her convent visits precipitate and figure out her own feelings about Samuel (Vincent Macaigne), the cynical French Jewish doctor whose parents died in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. In addition to its very dramatic narrative thrust about the fate of the nuns, The Innocents explores a number of compelling moral issues, including the nature of faith, the competing demands of motherhood and religion, what do God and morality require, and how do fallible people interpret those demands? Strikingly acted by all concerned (especially De Laage and her two Polish costars), impeccably put together by Fontaine without any false steps, The Innocents is also wonderfully lit, with frequent convent scenes invariably reminiscent of Italian Renaissance paintings. Creating those luminous images was cinematographer Caroline Champetier, who also shot Xavier Beauvois marvelous film of monks in crisis, 2011s Of Gods and Men. If there were still repertory house double bills, these two would make a splendid package. === The Innocents In French, Polish and Russian with English subtitles MPAA Rating: Not rated. Running time: 1 hour, 55 minutes. Playing Landmark, West Los Angeles. Critics Choice. The Innocents. Anne Fontaines post-World War II drama involving a Polish convent and a French female doctor proves yet again that though moral and spiritual questions may not sound spellbinding, they often provide the most absorbing movie experiences. Kenneth Turan Like its titular character, trying to reconcile being both the fifth Earl of Greystoke and the once and future King of the Jungle, The Legend of Tarzan wants to be both modern and traditional, hip and classic. Its a tough balance to strike, and this film cant manage it. Which is too bad, because actor Alexander Skarsgard, the latest iteration of the Edgar Rice Burroughs character filmed dozens of times since Elmo Lincoln donned the loincloth in 1918, turns out to be an exemplary Tarzan. Its a given in this age of intense training regimens for actors that Skarsgard has the physique for the part, looking lean and sinewy enough to actually do the breathtaking vine swinging that is in fact accomplished by a CGI character modeled on a Cirque du Soleil trapeze artist. Advertisement Even better, however, is that the actor, best known for HBOs True Blood, has the fine-boned features that enable him to project a quite gratifying air of dignity, stillness, even repose, making him the very model of an unflappable jungle monarch. Having David Yates, the director of the final four Harry Potter epics, in charge here no doubt helped with this pictures large-scale action sequences. But even his skill and that of Potter collaborators like production designer Stuart Craig, editor Mark Day and visual effects supervisor Tim Burke cant heal this films split personality. As written by Adam Cozad and Craig Brewer, The Legend of Tarzan alternates between a brazenly contemporary sensibility and quietly time-honored events. Unfortunately, almost all of the former are awkward while the latter still ring true. A few of Cozad and Brewers ideas are interesting, like referencing Belgiums King Leopold II, whose exploitative personal ownership destroyed the Congo that was the King of the Jungles home. Also, this iteration of Tarzan begins some years after the man in question has married Jane (Margot Robbie) and left Africa for London, where as John Clayton, Lord Greystoke, he apparently divides his time between serving in the House of Lords and hybridizing coconuts. Watch the trailer for The Legend of Tarzan. Meanwhile, back in Africa, we meet King Leopolds worse-than-evil envoy Leon Rom (the always villainous Christoph Waltz), who does things with a rosary the church never taught and has made a devils bargain with Mbonga (Djimon Hounsou), chief of the powerful and sinister Mbolonga tribe. This worthy adversary, who controls some fabulously wealthy diamond mines, has been nursing a grudge against the erstwhile vine swinger, and he tells Rom that if he produces Tarzan he can have all the gems he and Belgiums greedy king desire. John Clayton, knowing none of this, allows himself to be convinced to return to Africa, and when wife Jane demands to go along, he takes her with him. Big mistake. All this sounds promising enough for a Saturday matinee movie, and in fact the parts of The Legend of Tarzan that work best are the flashbacks to Tarzans well-known jungle origins and his bonding with the fierce Mangani gorillas he thinks of as family. But this film yearns to be contemporary, which means, among other things, hollow and out of place 21st century dialogue lines like how do you want to play this and tell me something I dont know, as well as what the MPAA rating guidelines accurately describe as brief rude dialogue. Even less satisfactory, Tarzan excepted, are the characters who speak this language. Actress Robbie tries hard as Jane but she is too ostentatiously modern and feisty to be at all convincing. Faring even worse is Samuel J. Jackson, who plays George Washington Williams, a swashbuckling American who convinces John Clayton to take him along when he reveals himself to be a secret anti-slavery crusader. Part comic relief, part valued ally, Williams is an altogether puzzling script component, and Jacksons habit of sounding like he just stepped out of Pulp Fiction does not help things. One of the most noteworthy aspects of The Legend of Tarzan is that though it is chock-a-block with jungle animals, all of whom seem to know Tarzan personally, they are exclusively created via CGI effects. Some of these moments are quite effective, but quitting while its ahead is not something thats in this films vocabulary. The Legend of Tarzan MPAA rating: PG-13 for sequences of action and violence, some sensuality and brief rude dialogue. Running time: 1 hour, 50 minutes. In general release. The Legend of Tarzan. Though Alexander Skarsgard is excellent in the title role, the rest of the film tries too hard to modernize itself, with unhappy results. Kenneth Turan I have only kind words for The Kind Words, an emotionally rich, beautifully textured family dramedy that touches on a wealth of interpersonal issues with buoyancy, charm and grace. Its one of the best films so far this year. Writer-director Shemi Zarhin masterfully explores a haunting, vital theme: Why do we sometimes learn more about a parent in death than in life? For Jewish Israeli adult siblings Dorona (Rotem Zissman-Cohen), Netanel (Roy Assaf) and Shai (Assaf Ben-Shimon), this question takes on unexpected resonance when, after the passing of their beloved mother, Yona (Levana Finkelstein), they discover their actual father may be Yonas long-ago Algerian lover, Maurice, and not Michael (Sasson Gabai), the man who raised the trio as his own. The revelation sets the siblings on an engaging, heartfelt, at times amusing detective hunt that takes them from Jerusalem to Paris and then to Marseilles, where they finally zero in on their possible biological dad (Maurice Benichou). Doronas devoted husband (Tsahi Halevi), Yonas touchy sister (Florence Bloch) and a lovely aging actress (Louise Portal) factor in as well. Advertisement Credible complications ensue and, although the story doesnt traffic in easy answers, it offers a wise and unusually satisfying ending that for some here may also mark a new beginning. Perhaps most impressive, though, is how Zarhin and his fine, appealing actors deftly capture the essence of a tight sibling bond: that playfully blunt, lovingly annoyed, history-filled dynamic unique to growing up and to growing older together. ------------- The Kind Words In French and Hebrew with English subtitles Not rated Running time: 1 hour, 58 minutes. Playing: Laemmle Royal Theater, West Los Angeles; Laemmle Town Center 5, Encino Its competently made, well-acted and largely intelligent, so why isnt the spy thriller Our Kind of Traitor more rewarding? Perhaps its the feeling that weve trod this kind of twisty treachery on screen ad infinitum since before the Cold War-era stylings of Alfred Hitchcock and far more vividly. That the film, directed by Susanna White, is based on a novel by prolific and oft-produced espionage master John le Carre may add to the deja vu. Poetics professor Perry (Ewan McGregor) and lawyer Gail (Naomie Harris) are on a romantic holiday in Marrakech when they become enmeshed in the fallout from an international money-laundering web. The trouble starts when Perry, to Gails dismay, befriends showy, persuasive Russian mobster Dima (Stellan Skarsgard). Perry then impulsively and incredibly agrees to deliver secret information to British intelligence that will implicate a corrupt Parliament member (Jeremy Northam), extricate Dima from the Russian Mafia and ensure the safety of Dimas family. Advertisement Suffice to say, this is all easier said than done, especially once a steely MI6 agent (Damian Lewis) gets involved. Globe-trotting, murder and cat-and-mouse intrigue ensues, but without a glut of action or mayhem. This relative restraint might have been more admirable if the pragmatic script by Hossein Amini took the time to explore Perry and Gails shaky relationship instead of allowing their woes to ultimately fade into the nicely shot scenery. ------------- Our Kind of Traitor MPAA Rating: R for violence, language throughout, some sexuality, nudity and brief drug use Running time: 1 hour, 48 minutes Playing: In limited release The end is nigh in The Purge: Election Year. Not the end of the world as we know it (another apocalypse? Ho-hum), but possibly the end of the Purge itself that cruel annual rite that, for one night only, allows all Americans to vent their bloodlust in the name of continued national health and prosperity. Pitting a heroic female presidential hopeful against a shadowy cabal of gun-toting one-percenters, this is a crudely opportunistic, engrossingly pulpy extension of a franchise that, as ludicrous as its setup has always been, seems increasingly in step with the violent absurdity of the times. That much is clear from the new movies cutthroat political rhetoric, as well as a ghastly scene of a church being peppered with bullets. An image like that cant help but give you pause, as it was clearly designed to do. Even more than in the series first two films, the writer-director James DeMonaco wields his satirical ideas and topical reference points with a recklessness that similarly informs his murkily shot scenes of knife-to-knife combat and sniper fire. At times the experience of watching Election Year is a bit like scanning a few years worth of alarming headlines while someone sets off firecrackers under your desk. Black Lives Matter, drone warfare, local protests, home-grown militias, predatory capitalism, the Florida electorate, pop pop, bang bang. In this frenzied B-thriller context, where thinking too much could easily get you killed, a hit-or-miss approach works better than you might expect. What once seemed like design weaknesses in DeMonacos speculative fiction the willful incoherence of his allegory and the scattershot quality of his satire now feel like a natural extension of his schlock-and-awe sensibility. He isnt concocting an alternate reality so much as sending out crazy dispatches from our own, and he knows that a jab doesnt have to be subtle in order to land. Advertisement Watch the trailer for The Purge: Election Year." By now DeMonaco has also mastered a kind of quick, drive-by characterization, and here, against the backdrop of Washington, D.C., he erects an ensemble of straw people whose symbolic function can usually be summed up in a few sound bites. The soul of our entire country is at stake, declares Sen. Charlie Roan (Elizabeth Mitchell), a presidential candidate who, apart from her cool blond demeanor, is too thinly sketched to bear much of a resemblance to Hillary Clinton. Smart and sympathetic if a bit bland, she seems to harbor no political agenda apart from her determination to abolish the Purge once and for all, having lost her entire family 18 years earlier in a killers rampage. Rather than running against an obvious Donald Trump stand-in (because some figures exist beyond the reach of parody), Roan must go head-to-head with a prominent member (played by a freaky Kyle Secor) of the New Founding Fathers of America, the evil government organization that initiated the Purge to begin with. (Any similarities between the NFFA and the NRA, which is name-dropped separately here, are probably not coincidental.) I have had it with all these idealistic pigs! one NFFA leader spits, directing his words squarely at the back row of the theater, even as he and his conspirators take aim at Roan when the next Purge Night commences. Viewers who showed up for the first two movies will by now know the drill (and the rifle, and the machete, and the power saw). The first Purge (2013) was a cruddy but queasy-making home-invasion thriller that brought down the barricades shielding a familys McMansion and turned a homeless black man into a hero worthy of George Romero (an even more pronounced influence on the new film). The series quality kicked up a notch with The Purge: Anarchy (2014), a nightmarish urban shoot-em-up that, with a nod in the direction of John Carpenter, broadened the allegorys scope and shifted its focus toward those on the margins of society nonwhite, working-class citizens who were the real targets of the Purges cleansing campaign all along. That trend continues here with Joe Dixon (a wisecracking Mykelti Williamson), a hard-working deli owner who with the help of his Mexican-born co-worker, Marcos (Joseph Julian Soria), and his friend Laney (Betty Gabriel), a reformed gang member must protect his uninsured business from a few girls gone wild. Led by a precocious young Purger (Brittany Mirabile, ferocious) who shows up in a blood-slicked pink tutu, these and other killers seem to have borrowed a few moves and accessories from George Millers Mad Max movies and Harmony Korines Spring Breakers a connection reinforced by a recent surge in murder tourism, thanks to a wave of young Europeans who have flown in to join the guilt-free mayhem. Its not long before Dixons crew teams up with the imperiled senator and her personal bodyguard, Leo (the excellent Frank Grillo), who was first introduced shooting and slicing his way through The Purge: Anarchy. The other recurring figure here is Dante Bishop (Edwin Hodge), now a leader in the anti-Purge movement, whose own insurrectionist plot prompts some obligatory moral handwringing in the third act. We cant be like them! Roan pleads, but rest assured that The Purge: Election Year is never in danger of letting you confuse the haves with the have-nots. Is murder our new religion? someone asks early on, and the question is made chillingly, ridiculously literal in a sequence involving a freaky-as-hell midnight mass a savage spoof of gun-loving, God-fearing America, complete with psycho priests and weapons blessed with holy water. DeMonaco sets the stage with ghoulish delight, though here, as elsewhere, he has a hard time generating any actual tension, much less any real surprise over who will be left standing at movies end. I wouldnt be the first to point out that this franchise gaudily exploits the violence that it claims to condemn, but theres a deeper hypocrisy here, one that binds the commercial logic of this Hollywood franchise to the moral bankruptcy of the Purge itself: So long as the right people wind up dead, why not keep it going? ------------ The Purge: Election Year MPAA rating: R, for disturbing bloody language and strong violence Running time: 1 hour, 45 minutes Playing: In general release Deep in the heart of summer, it can prove difficult to find a good reason to go to the movies save for the air conditioning. But if youre tiring of big-budget popcorn fare, fear not: Awards season is only a few months off, and the trailer for Clint Eastwoods new film is here to remind you of that. Sully, which hits theaters Sept. 9, is the directors first movie since his Oscar-nominated American Sniper came out two years ago. The film stars Tom Hanks as Capt. Chesley Sully Sullenberger, the white-haired airline pilot who was hailed as a hero after successfully landing a US Airways flight on the Hudson River in 2009. If you followed the breathless news coverage after the incident, you probably think the situation was pretty black and white: Just 2,800 feet above land, a flock of geese flew into the planes engines, causing them to fail. Sullenberger was forced to attempt a water landing, and all 155 passengers aboard the Airbus A320 survived. Advertisement But as the trailer reveals, there was actually a lot more going on behind the scenes. Following the miraculous landing, Sullenberger was scrutinized for his decision by airline officials who questioned whether the pilot could have made it all the way to LaGuardia Airport without hitting the water. The movie also promises to explore the difficultly Sullenberger had reconciling himself as a hero. Shortly after the so-called Miracle on the Hudson occurred, the pilot became a household name, sitting for interviews with Katie Couric and other prominent journalists. It was one of those events, in the first couple of seconds, I knew it was going to be unlike anything I had ever experienced, he told CBS This Morning in 2014. It was going to define my life into before and after. I knew it was going to be a challenge of a lifetime that was mine to solve, but it also provided opportunities, like this one, to have a greater voice about things. ALSO: Every Steven Spielberg movie ranked, from first to worst Alexander Skarsgard tries to update Tarzans legend and impress Dad. No pressure. Djimon Hounsou recounts 7 key roles, from telling big Africa stories to hanging with Angelina Jolie Alice Bag, who was in the vanguard of the Los Angeles punk rock scene, had stepped back from music for much of the last decade and a half. New songs would occasionally appear online, but it wasnt until this month that Bag reemerged to release a proper solo debut. The absence wasnt for a lack of things to say. Bag, who stood as the all-too-rare female Latin American voice in the male-dominated punk scene of the 1970s, has come back with an 11-song self-titled album that aims for topicality. Among the subjects Bags takes on: immigration, sexual assault, date rape, the education system. I would burst with anger and dissatisfaction with the way things are going, says Bag, who offstage goes by her married name of Velasquez. Advertisement In that sense, little has changed since Bag was an architect of late 70s punk outfit the Bags. With a reputation that bordered on the manic and compulsive, and a penchant for performing in tattered clothes, the Bags were short-lived but trailblazing. And ferocious onstage. Bag, now 57, is open about her youth and teenage years, saying punk rock served as a salvation from living in an abusive home in East Los Angeles. Her new song Hes So Sorry puts a sugary, girl group spin on the subject of domestic abuse and the struggle one has in actually leaving a damaged relationship. The rage that I felt when I was growing up and was a little kid and didnt have an outlet -- suddenly, I was on a stage and I had a voice. Alice Bag A lot of Alice Bag in 1977 was someone who was dealing with dramatic stress, dealing with the consequence of abuse -- the rage that I felt when I was growing up and was a little kid and didnt have an outlet, she says, suddenly, I was on a stage and I had a voice. A lot of the rage came out. The Times in 1978 described her as possessing a raw sexuality not for the fainthearted as well as shattering accepted ideas about a womans role in music. Thats the Alice whos seen in the 1981 film The Decline of Western Civilization. She performs a record release show for her new, self-titled solo album, released by New Jersey-based independent label Don Giovanni Records, at the Echo on Saturday night. Shes no longer frantically yelling at least not on every song and the work captures her diverse background and interests. I listen to everything from Bollywood to ranchera to gospel, she says. Trying to sneak in a peak at those influences in an album that would sound cohesive was difficult. Life experiences figure heavily into the work. Bag, for instance, was an elementary school teacher for more than 20 years, and she doesnt hold back her feelings on the education system amid the frenzied, bass-driven energy and vocal snarls of Programmed. Elsewhere, Weigh About You is all cabaret spookiness, with violins that sway like an alley cats tail and contrast with sparse keyboards. Incorporeal Life and Inesperado Adios pull on the artists Latin background, while No Means No chronicles a date rape and the sentencing after with full-on howling emotion as an abuser gets locked away. That song feels especially of the moment in wake of ex-Stanford swimmer Brock Turners six-month sentence in a sexual-assault case and the outrage that followed. In Bags No Means No, the judge shows no leniency for the accused. When I think of a song like No Means No, I want it to be true so badly, she says. I really want to see more judges that hand down sentences that are like, Youre going to prison for what you did, and not what happens in real life, where somebody gets away with a six-month sentence. Thats infuriating to me. I wish I could sing that and have the consequence that happens in the song be a real consequence. She credits her time as a teacher for bringing a sense of clarity to her lyrics. She notes that in her days with the Bags, she didnt always get the translation right, as Bag sings and writes largely in English but grew up speaking Spanish. In the Bags song Survive, for instance, Bag says she used the word commodity because she was thinking of comodidad, the Spanish word for comfort. I was quick to get in arguments and often get in fights, Bag says of her pre-teaching days. Working with children, I found that I couldnt ever be angry at a child. If there was a problem communicating or reaching the child, I felt like it was my responsibility to figure out how to communicate what I was trying to say. I think I became a more effective communicator. I learned how to clarify my thoughts. When I was younger, I was more about what Im feeling. My songs were often just expressions of my mood. Now, shes an author having written two books and a lyrical storyteller. Take Inesperado Adios, a heartbreaking ballad in a traditional Spanish style that reflects on her days as a teacher as well as the immigration debates dotting this years election season. Bag talks of watching one of her students a high-achieving young woman become distant. She ultimately found out that the girls father had been detained over his immigration status. I did my best to help, but there was nothing I could do, she says. I wanted to express what they were going through in a song. Im hoping people will connect to it and see how somebody feels who has given so much to this country. Immigration, assault, rape Bag says she doesnt feel a duty to be in activist in her work; its simply what she is passionate about. I remember growing up and having people say that there are certain things you dont talk about at the dinner table, she says. You dont talk about religion or sex or politics. Well, then Im going to go eat on the TV tray. Those are the only things I want to talk about. todd.martens@latimes.com Frank Zappas rich musical and cultural legacy, and which children have a right to profit off it, have recently become the subject of a public and contentious family battle. The children of Frank and Gail Zappa Moon Unit, Dweezil, Ahmet and Diva were left unequal shares of the Zappa Family Trust, which owns the rights to a massive trove of music and other creative output by the songwriter, filmmaker and producer more than 60 albums were released during Zappas lifetime and 40 posthumously. Thanks to a decision by their mother, who died in 2015, Ahmet, 42, and his younger sister, Diva, 36, share control of the trust to the dismay and anger of their two older siblings, Dweezil, 46, and Moon, 48, who received smaller portions. But each inherited equal levels of their fathers independent spirit, a sensibility that is seeing renewed attention due to the arrival of the documentary Eat That Question: Frank Zappa in His Own Words. Below is a look at what the Zappa kids are up to now. Moon Unit Zappa Moon Unit Zappa (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) The eldest Zappa child is arguably the most well-known, due in large part to her teenage star turn on Valley Girl. The song, a collaboration between father and daughter that appeared on Franks 1982 album Ship Arriving Too Late to Save a Drowning Witch, poked fun at the California Valleyspeak dialect unique to teenage girls in the San Fernando Valley at the time. In the intervening decades, Moon has continued to live a creative life, appearing on such TV series as Curb Your Enthusiasm, Greys Anatomy and How I Met Your Mother. More recently, she voiced a character on the Foxs animated show High School USA! Moon writes for film and television, does stand-up comedy and recently held a storytelling show in Portland, Ore. The artist is also very involved in yoga. During a recent conversation, Moon (who considers Unit to be her middle name) said that she had wanted to help spread the word about her fathers work and legacy but that Gail had mostly declined her ideas. She noted this was not a family fight over money or unfair proportions, recently tweeting, This is about having to ask permission for use on OUR last name & creative exclusion. There were so many times that I had gone to her. I had suggested a biopic and a documentary. I had lined up all these elements, said Moon, adding that she also pitched a family reality show and a curated album of Franks music designed with teenage girls in mind. Every single idea I brought to her, she shot down. Moon said she loved Eat That Question, the new documentary about her father, calling it such a universal story about following your calling, and how that road is not an easy road. It requires a kind of stamina and dedication, and thats a great story, whether youre a fan of that music or not. At the top of Moons creative to-do list is a project sure to excite fans of Zappa and Los Angeles culture: I'm working on a book about growing up in my crazy house. Dont expect her to pull any punches. Dweezil Zappa Dweezil Zappa (Francine Orr/ Los Angeles Times) (Dweezil Zappa practicing at his North Hollywood rehearsal space in advance of an upcoming tour ) The oldest son, perhaps best known to the public as an MTV VJ in the 1980s, is the most musically focused of the four kids. Its Dweezils beef with the trust that first drew press attention to the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding use of the Zappa name. Specifically, the trust is trying to prevent Dweezil from touring as either Zappa Plays Zappa or Dweezil Zappa Plays Frank Zappa, citing trademark violations. Until the tussle is settled, Dweezil will be touring under his own name, and he has dubbed that sojourn the Cease and Desist tour. He and his band will be performing his fathers work, with particular attention paid to songs from the Mothers of Inventions Freak Out!, which this week celebrated its 50th anniversary. I, of all the people in the family, spent time with him doing something because we had it in common -- guitar [and] music. Dweezil Zappa said of his father Dweezil takes his job as Franks musical ambassador seriously. My concern is to just be able to continue to enjoy the music, live within the music, play the music, and express that and allow new people to discover that in a live situation, he said. I, of all the people in the family, spent time with him doing something because we had it in common -- guitar [and] music. In addition to playing his fathers music, the skilled guitarist has landed guest appearances over the years with such artists as Winger, Pat Boone, Spinal Tap (lead guitar on Break Like the Wind), Weird Al Yankovic and the Dixie Dregs. Last year, Dweezil released his first solo album in nine years, Via Zammata, featuring work that mixes rock, jazz and funk. The albums highlights include the mesmerizing instrumental Truth, the jangly, Beatles-esque pop of Just the Way She Is and a Zappa-inspired experiment called Malkovich, which features vocals by John Malkovich. Dweezil Zappa begins his Cease and Desist tour in El Prado, N.M., on July 1. Ahmet Zappa Ahmet Zappa (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times ) Ahmet has taken charge of day-to-day operations of the Zappa Family Trust. Although those responsibilities are myriad and include running its record labels, advancing Franks legacy and protecting his copyrights, Ahmet views his main role as serving the will of the fans and for people to make the connection to my father's entire body of work. Running the trust is totally in my wheelhouse, he said during a recent conversation at the Zappa compound. In his professional career, hes run a division of Disney called Kingdom Comics and, with his wife, Shana Muldoon Zappa, created the Disney-owned brand Star Darlings, which is centered on empowering tween girls. Star Darlings merchandise includes books and dolls and is available at Wal-Mart, Target and other big-box stores. What's great about Frank is that he really is the person guiding things, because he said it, he played it, he shot it. He really is the moral compass. Ahmet Zappa Said Ahmet, I always wanted to be a storyteller. That makes me the happiest storytelling in any medium. He added that when it comes to his philosophy on matters of the trust, he need only refer to his fathers blueprint. What's great about Frank is that he really is the person guiding things, because he said it, he played it, he shot it. He really is the moral compass. Describing his father as a complicated person and an amazing musician, Ahmet said that one of his jobs as trustee was to convey the sheer breadth of Franks compositional skills. One thing that I want people to understand, which I think is underdeveloped, is the focus of him as a modern-day composer. His orchestral pieces, that aspect of his life -- more and more people want to play that music, which makes me so happy. Ahmet added that while his dad provided posthumous guidance, he learned how to run the business by looking to his mom. Citing what my mother endured, and her business mind, and her creativity, he said, It's pretty cool to be more like Gail Zappa. Diva Zappa Diva Zappa (Twitter) (Twitter ) The youngest Zappa child is also the most press-shy. Speaking on the phone from London earlier in the month, Diva had just returned from Prague, where the Czech National Symphony Orchestra had performed an evening of her fathers music. She said that one of her primary roles in the trust is to be present when her father's work is highlighted. What do I think my responsibility is? To show up and be open, she said. Experience everything. Show up and see what happens and try to do the best I can in every situation for the good of everyone in my family. And thats including future generations. Everything we do is really to take care of all of us. Aside from her role in ensuring Franks legacy, Diva is a visual artist and fashion designer who works with knitwear. "When I knit, I never know what will happen, Diva told the British newspaper the Independent in 2011. I am inspired by all that is around me, light, trees, leaves, colours, breath, sounds, sparks, magic, beauty, frustration, heat, love, coffee, humour, feathers, shadows, smells... everything. It all gets in there somehow." The designers work appeared on the Grammy red carpet in 2009 when Metallica bassist Robert Trujillos wife, Chloe, wore a Diva dress. Diva is currently at work on a scarf, but not just any scarf. Emilio the Scarf is a project with its own Twitter handle. Described on the profile page as a magical piece of art, the scarf promises that one day I will be 5,280 feet long. ALSO It's brother and sister against brother and sister in bitter fight over control of Frank Zappa's legacy Dweezil Zappa forced to change Zappa band's moniker (again). Now Dweezil Zappa Plays Whatever the ... He Wants - the Cease and Desist Tour Chicago's 4th of July weekend shows at the Hollywood Bowl will be a celebration of the band's legacy L.A.'s original punk Alice Bag is back, and she has a lot to say on her first solo album UPDATES: 9:13 a.m., July 1: This story was updated with a recent tweet from Moon Unit Zappa. This story was originally published at 3:46 p.m. on June 30. Garrison Keillor means it this time. On Friday at the Hollywood Bowl, he will tape his last show as host of A Prairie Home Companion, the public-radio institution he created and has led, with relatively brief interruptions since 1974; the next day, Saturday, it will be broadcast to the rest of the listening land. Keillor, 73, had left the series once before, when he married and moved to Denmark in the late 1980s, closing the shop entirely. But by 1993, after a detour through New York and The American Radio Company of the Air, he made his way back to Prairie and the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul; they have been in business ever since. A stroke in 2009 hardly broke his stride. (He suffered a seizure during Memorial Day weekend this year, his second this year). For a few months in 2011, as 70 appeared on his horizon, he seemed to be serious about leaving again, but he stayed the course. He kept on keeping on. But now a new host has been hired, mandolin player Chris Thile, 35, of Nickel Creek and the Punch Brothers, whose own history with the show runs back 20 years. Thile will begin his run in October. (His Nickel Creek bandmate, Sara Watkins, also a series favorite, will be on the bill at the Bowl.) Advertisement The new voice of A Prairie Home Companion, Chris Thile, will step in for Garrison Keillor in October. (Ann Heisenfelt / AP ) Keillor and his show have their fans a weekly audience of more than 3 million currently and their detractors, some of whom strive to separate their dislike of the creator from their liking of his creation. Some find his voice, which has acquired a late-period breathlessness alongside an oak-cask richness, like nails on a chalkboard. For some it is too white, too Midwestern, too old the median listener is 59, according to Nielsen. For some thats reason enough to dismiss it. I have had my own ups and downs with Prairie, but I have come to feel they were generally of my own making, a reflection of my own temper at the time rather than the quality of the thing itself, which is generally high. I was aware of the product before the show, of the stacked paperbacks and cassette tapes that somehow seemed to occupy every sight line in the brick-and-mortar bookshops of yore. My reflexive first impulse, based on the packaging and the placement, was to distrust it as straightforward, cinnamon-scented sentimentality, like a year-round Christmas store. I was mistaken. The occasional old hymn notwithstanding, it is ironic and twisty and not a little devilish. Like his contemporary and fellow Minnesotan Bob Dylan, born a year earlier some three hours drive to the north, Keillor has a dark temperament lighted by a puckish humor and in his work mixes the spiritual and the sensual, the moral and the mortal. A Prairie Home Companion is on its surface very bright, punctuated with laughter and applause and the metallic flash of guitar and fiddle and piano strings good-time music, as much of it might generically be called. But it masks a kind of amused fatalism. Consider Beebopareebop Rhubarb Pie (Nothing gets the taste of shame and humiliation out of your mouth quite like Beebopareebop Rhubarb Pie) or the Ketchup Advisory Board, which promotes the condiment, with its natural mellowing agents as a kind of mood elevator, while Powdermilk Biscuits give shy persons the strength to get up and do what needs to be done. Populated with characters not from Keillors own small-town youth but from the world of his parents, their siblings and their friends, Lake Wobegon the fictional subject of Keillors weekly monologue is on the face of it old-fashioned: a needlepoint sampler created in the year of Chinatown, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Kraftwerks Autobahn, and the Ramones first public appearance. But you would be wrong to regard it as nostalgia, even as age and the old days have inevitably run to the forefront of Keillors thoughts. Its Keillors Sherwood Andersons Winesburg, Ohio, or William Saroyans Ithaca, Calif., an ordinarily eccentric small town big enough to contain all lifes joys and sorrows and, despite its sheen of Protestant, passive-aggressive politeness, a multitude of sins. The challenge of humor, Keillor has said, is that somehow it must comprehend darkness and death. Fatality as well as fatalism is built into the series; people die, or almost die, and so remember to live. In Robert Altmans 2006 lovely, last film, A Prairie Home Companion, Death (played by Virginia Madsen) is a character, roaming the corridors and the stage of the Fitzgerald Theater as the series itself is about to expire. It is not meant tragically. A Prairie Home Companion has been an ark between the old world and the new, the analog and the digital. It kept audio comedy alive into an age of video. Robert Lloyd Radio itself is old-fashioned, of course, and yet between Web-based podcasting, satellite radio and mobile apps -- it is very much of the moment. Storytelling, which is the job inside Keillors bigger job, and one at which he casually excels, is the engine that drives This American Life, Snap Judgment, StoryCorps and The Moth, which awarded him its 2007 Moth Award. Thank you for this, he said accepting it. I dont believe in awards; or didnt until very recently. The overall form of the show, an olio of songs, stories, skits and ads for invented products invented because public radio carried no commercials was inspired by Keillors reporting, for a 1974 New Yorker piece, on the last broadcast of The Grand Ole Opry from Nashvilles Ryman Auditorium, built in 1892, before its move to plush new digs at Opryland. You listen to the Opry and pretty soon you have a place in mind and eventually you have got to go and be there too, Keillor wrote. Closing my eyes, I could see the stage just as clearly as when I was a kid lying in front of our giant Zenith console. Im a radio man for thirty-some years, Keillor wrote in his poem Radio Man, Doing an old variety show/Based on some I used to hear/When I was your age long ago./Critics pointed out my debts/To Bob & Ray and Fibber McGee/But alcohol and cigarettes/Swept those critics out to sea/And to twenty-year-olds who were born/Too late to hear the great Fred Allen/Im the creator of the form,/Sailing the airwaves like Magellan. A Prairie Home Companion has been a sort of ark between the old world and the new, the analog and the digital. It kept audio comedy alive into an age of video I bow down here to the flexible brilliance of company members Sue Scott and Tom Russell and to the sound-effects artistry of Fred Newman and Tom Keith, given a pride of place unmatched elsewhere. Under Thile, the show, which will keep its name and time slot, is expected to be more music than comedy. Some old hands may remain, but when Keillor leaves, the show will also lose its head writer its writer, basically and whatever of the original remains will be an echo of that voice. He will have moved on, along with Guy Noir the private eye and Lefty the cowboy and an artist named Bob. If you want any more news from Lake Wobegon you will have to write it yourself. As Keillor said to the 1990 graduates at Anoka High School, his alma mater, Graduation is a graceful and sweet old ceremony. What it means is that its time to gather your stuff together and get out. A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor, featuring Christine DiGiallonardo, Sarah Jarosz, Heather Masse, Aoife ODonovan and Sara Watkins. Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N Highland Ave. Friday, July 1. 8 p.m. $7-$164. (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com MORE: Garrison Keillor reflects at the Hollywood Bowl, rehearsing for final show: I just want it to be good From 30 Rock to Saved by the Bell: The funniest shows to watch on NBCs streaming service Seeso right now Famed voice actress Janet Waldo provided the sound of sweetness, spiked with attitude When rental and online retail companies decided to become studios, the last blurred line between movies and TV disappeared When you think of a gas station, perhaps the last thing you think of is good food. But dining in L.A. is often surprising, so why not have a meal at your local 76 or Chevron? Turns out that inside more than a few inconspicuous minimarts, you can find much more than sweaty heat-lamp cheese dogs, and often at an affordable price. Think fresh potato samosas, enchilada sauce-dipped tortas, and broasted chicken and potatoes that are worth licking your fingers for. Here are some spots where you wont want to just pay at the pump. Ammis Samosas Advertisement We sell Lotto and samosas, one Woodland Hills gas station sign proclaims. That and another little sign for Ammis Samosas are the only hints youll find that theres more to this gas station than meets the eye. At the corner of DeSoto Avenue and Ventura Boulevard, this Chevron is one of 10 stations, most in Woodland Hills, that sells these addictive Indian snacks. The woman responsible for them, Amarjit Mac, is also co-owner of these stations and 30 others, with her husband, Bhupinder. Mac preps the samosas weekly in their Santa Monica gas station kitchen, cooking the fillings, then stuffing and freezing the samosas to be fried later. Two of the Woodland Hills stations fry small batches every day throughout the day, according to demand, and distribute to the other locations. In other words, the samosa you find sitting in the warmer is pretty fresh. Mac, who is northern Indian but grew up in Kenya, uses her familys recipe, though she has toned down the heat level to suit her patrons tastes. The heavy, plump triangles, filled with ground beef or potato, still have quite a kick, dense with the flavors of ginger, garlic, chiles and cilantro. Customers can choose between cool mint or tamarind chutney as a condiment. At $1.83 each, order one of everything, then mix, match, and repeat. Chevron, 20905 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills, (818) 999-9495. Chevron Grill Once you start looking for them, youll find a surprising number of minimart Mexican grills. Past the Slim Jims and candy aisles, the counter is typically located at the back of the store. Sometimes there are tables and chairs, sometimes not. At Chevron Grill, you do get the tables and chairs, and you also get a particularly good interpretation of the genre. Perfectly salty, with just the right ratio of soft meat to crispy bits, the carnitas stand out. Also try the carne asada and the al pastor. Order them as tacos ($1.40 each) to try them all, and to take advantage of the salsa bar, which has the mild tomatillo and spicy roja youd expect, but also spicy pickled carrots and pickled red onions. Served on double discs of warm corn tortillas, top them as you like and dig in. Mornings call for a breakfast burrito, or as regulars refer to it, the GSB (Gas Station Burrito, of course). Chevron, 22756 Vanowen Street, West Hills, (818) 716-1549. Taco Express Just a 20-minute drive from Chevron Grill, another taqueria hides in plain sight, in yes, another Chevron station minimart on the south side of Ventura Boulevard in Tarzana. Taco Express feels like more of a gamble when you walk in, thanks to a large food warming case that greets you front and center. Look past it and order something from the plancha. Lamb, beef tongue and carne asada tortas ($7.99) as big as your head are all popular, as is the literal headthe cabezawhich sells out quickly. The pastor is not cooked on a traditional trompo, but its marinated in chile guajillo, paprika and cumin, and roasted with the requisite onions and pineapple. A little chopped onion and wonderfully tangy avocado salsa on that taco ($2.99), and youre in business. Chevron, 19156 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana, (818) 345-5553. Cilantro Mexican Grill Almost in a category of its own, Cilantro Mexican Grill goes way beyond the taco stand. Its menu is surprisingly ambitiousnot just for gas station food, but for a fast-casual restaurant, which is closer to what it really is. Before coming on as chef at Cilantro, Adolfo Perez studied at Le Cordon Bleu Pasadena and worked in the kitchens of the Cheesecake Factory and Hamburger Hamlet. The dipped steak torta ($7) is much like a traditional torta sandwich, but with the added flourishes of two sauces inside (cilantro pesto and chipotle ranch), and a pool of warm, smoky enchilada sauce underneath. The tacos also get special treatment. From beef barbacoa to fresh grilled shrimp (yep, in a gas station) you can customize pretty much any order. That means even tacos (starting at $1.95) can have toppings like calabacitas or roasted corn salad, in addition to the more expected salsas and sour cream. Even the aguas frescas are a surprise, as on a recent visit when offerings included watermelon and an almost herbaceous spinach variety. Chevron, 7214 Whitsett Ave., North Hollywood, (818) 765-7998, cilantromexican.com. Mrs. Sippee Originally called Mr. Sippee, back before it could boast L.A. Live and Staples Center as its neighbors, this Los Angeles institution of more than 35 years has changed ownership, but thankfully not its broasted chicken and hand-cut mojo potato recipes. These days theyre even on GrubHub, but you can still grab a parking spot at the 76 station and walk into the graffiti artcovered minimart to place your order and eat at the counter. The chicken is dredged in a proprietary mix of flour and spices, then cooked in a Broaster (a patented pressure fryer). The well-seasoned skin is savory, brown, nice and crusty; and the inside perfectly juicy. Accompanying potato wedges are given essentially the same treatment, to great results. For $4.99, you get three chicken legs, spuds and a side of Louisiana hot sauce. Sippee also makes a good burger. The ribs are popular as well. But youre here for the chicken. 76, 1045 Blaine St., Los Angeles, (213) 748-1612. ALSO: Jonathan Golds Taco Tuesday: Norteno tacos at Loqui 9 fried chicken recipes from the L.A. Times Test Kitchen This new rose Champagne was made to be served on ice and sipped on an L.A. patio The U.S. Department of Education has agreed to forgive $171 million of debt owed by former students of the bankrupt for-profit school Corinthian Colleges Inc., most of them in California. The government said Wednesday that it has granted relief to 11,173 students who attended one of the defunct Santa Ana companys colleges, which included Heald, Everest and WyoTech. Of the students who have filed claims, nearly 9,700 reside in California -- far more than in any other state according to a report released Wednesday by the official overseeing the claims. The average amount of relief per student was $15,280. Advertisement The number of students receiving debt relief -- and the bill for taxpayers -- probably will rise as government investigators continue to look at thousands of other students claims. In May 2015, Corinthian filed for bankruptcy, a week after abruptly closing the doors of its remaining campuses. The company was one of many that opened for-profit campuses across the country, often with few admissions requirements. Corinthian made it easy for students to apply for federal loans to cover its high tuition, with many accumulating debt in the tens of thousands of dollars. But Corinthian was repeatedly found to have overstated the success of its education programs, including the numbers of students obtaining jobs that paid enough for them to pay back the debt and make a living. For example, in March, a San Francisco County Superior Court judge found that Corinthian had provided untrue or misleading statements about graduates job placement rates. The judge ordered Corinthian to pay $820 million to students -- a sum that will be hard to collect. When the company filed for bankruptcy it listed $143 million in liabilities and just $19 million in assets. Even with Wednesdays announcement, many students who believe they were defrauded will continue to wait. The government is only looking at claims of students who took out a loan in 2010 or more recently. Tasha Rincon, 34, of Vista said she owes more than $46,000 for her classes at an Everest campus in Ontario. She said Wednesday that shes happy for the students getting relief, but doesnt know if shell ever get help since she took out her first loan before 2010. Rincon said she took classes to be a probation officer, but could only find work as a security guard, which paid minimum wage. She now works three hours a day serving lunch in a high school. Rincon said that Corinthian had told her that 93% of students in the probation officer program would get well-paying jobs. The numbers just sounded great, she said. Since 2010, Corinthian enrolled nearly 350,000 students who took out about $3.5 billion in federal loans. The government is forgiving the loans under a federal law known as borrower defense, which relieves the debt of those who can prove they were defrauded. The law also forgives the loans of students who attend schools that close before they get their degree. melody.petersen@latimes.com ALSO Joint Base Andrews on lockdown after report of active shooter Airbnbs legal argument: Dont hold us accountable for the actions of our hosts An end to all the excuses, says L.A.'s chief bureaucrat in push for $1.8-billion homelessness plan Real estate tycoon Jona Goldrich, a Holocaust survivor who came to Southern California with $50 in his pocket and went on to help transform downtown Los Angeles and Marina del Rey, has died. He was 88. Goldrich passed away Sunday of natural causes, his family said. For the record: An earlier version of this article identified David Rochkind as chief operating officer of the Goldrich Family Foundation. He holds that position with the Goldrich Family Office. He leaves behind a real estate empire of 211 properties across the state, primarily in Southern California including government-assisted housing, senior-living facilities and marinas according to David Rochkind, chief operating officer of the Goldrich Family Office. Advertisement Goldrich founded development company Goldrich & Kest Industries with fellow Holocaust survivor Sol Kest in the 1950s and got his start building apartments. He made his mark with a series of developments in downtown Los Angeles when many doubted the area could attract residences. The company, in partnership with developer Nathan Shapell, built the 255 Grand apartments on Bunker Hill, followed by the Promenade Towers, a twin tower apartment and office complex, in the 1980s. Downtown really was just offices, Rochkind said. You had your accounting firms and law firms, courts and that was it. There were no restaurants, nothing. He figured there are plenty of workers down there who would like to live close to their offices, something thats now very popular. Goldrich also was a pioneer in Marina del Rey, building one of its first apartment complexes, the Dolphin Marina, in 1968. Goldrich & Kest now owns four apartment buildings and three marinas in the seaside town. Goldrichs vision contradicted many peoples thinking at the time. A lot of people said, Jona, youre wasting your money. You dont know what youre talking about. Nobodys going to want to live here. Its full of mosquitos, said Rochkind, recalling a story Goldrich had shared with him in his eighties. Goldrich envisioned the area as a beacon of California lifestyle, with its boats, beaches and sunsets. He had the crystal ball, Rochkind said. The developer also started building public housing projects after President Lyndon Johnson enacted the Housing and Urban Development Act in 1965, which provided low-income tenants with rent subsidies. Of the 122 apartment buildings he constructed, 72 accommodate low-income families, Rochkind said. I got satisfaction out of providing poor people with housing, but I made money at it, Goldrich told the Los Angeles Business Journal in a 2001 interview. They limited how much money you could make, but there was zero risk. In 2001, the Business Journal estimated Goldrichs net worth to be $950 million, which he disputed, insisting he was worth $180 to $200 million. Whatever figure was closer to the truth, it allowed him to exercise a philanthropic bent. He supported Holocaust remembrance and awareness, starting the Goldrich Family Foundation to further that mission and other causes. He also served as a major benefactor to numerous Jewish and Israeli charities. Goldrich told the Los Angeles Business Journal in 2001 that he would donate $500,000 a year about 10% to 15% of his personal income at the time to educational, Jewish and Israeli charities. His crowning achievement was helping to establish the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust in Pan Pacific Park. Jona had a passionate connection to this history and a passionate connection to making the effort and it is an effort to hold history, said Samara Hutman, the museums executive director. Goldrich was born in 1927 in Lvov, Poland. His childhood was turned upside down by the arrival of World War II and the Nazi invasion of Poland. In 1942, Goldrich and his brother Avraham were smuggled out to Hungary, eventually settling in Israel. Another brother and the rest of his family died in concentration camps. Goldrich lived and worked in Israel for 11 years, before immigrating to the United States with hopes of attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He was rejected due to inadequate English skills. With little money, Goldrich hopped on a bus to Southern California, where he thought the climate most resembled Israels. Goldrich started a construction cleanup business in 1954; during that time he learned the ins and outs of the real estate business. He built his first apartment building in North Hollywood at age 29, an initial endeavor that ballooned into a real estate empire. Goldrich didnt go without criticism, for what was deemed a combative business style and occasionally shoddy or inadequate construction, according to a 1986 Los Angeles Times profile. In late 1984, condominium owners in one of the Promenade buildings sued Goldrich & Kest as well as Shapell Industries, alleging defects including a faulty heating and air conditioning system, defective trash chutes and leaky windows. Goldrich conceded to the leakage problems but said they were exaggerated. Daughter Melinda Goldrich said her father went about his business in a single-minded and strong-willed manner. This is what Im doing. You can be on board or you cannot be on board, said Melinda, reflecting on her fathers personal style. Kid, employee, potential partner in work or business. You join with his vision or you didnt. He was a very independent person because he lost his parents at a young age. Once he became a father, Goldrich juggled raising children while furthering his real estate ambitions. If I wanted to spend time with him as a kid, I needed to go in his car to construction locations, Melinda Goldrich said. He was dedicated to family but not in a traditional sense. Goldrich is survived by his wife of 56 years, Doretta; brother Avraham; daughters Melinda and Andrea Goldrich Cayton; and grandchildren Garrett, Lindsay and Derek. A blind coyote that gave birth to four pups in captivity and became a social media sensation was euthanized on Wednesday by California wildlife officials after they determined the animal was suffering and would not recover. Four months ago, someone shot the coyote in the head, leaving it blinded in both eyes. The wounded predator wandered for weeks in the Santa Ynez Valley until it tumbled 30 feet into an empty rock-and-mortar reservoir on the outskirts of this Santa Barbara county town best known for its Danish-themed shops and as the location of the wine-themed movie Sideways. The coyote was huddled in a shadowed crevice, emaciated, dehydrated and bleeding when Julia Di Seino, a licensed wildlife rescuer, got a call and raced to the scene. Advertisement The animal, Di Seino said, was having a heart attack. She administered chest compressions and a shot of epinephrine to kick its heart back into rhythm. On March 23, while recuperating at Di Seinos Animal Rescue Team facility, the coyote gave birth to four male pups. A conservationist suggested naming it Angel. Angel will be remembered as a living emblem of the power of motherhood and survival. Fauna Tomlinson, Project Coyote spokeswoman 1 / 6 Four coyote pups born after their mother, Angel, was rescued will be cared for until they are mature enough to be released. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 6 Julia di Sieno, executive director and co-founder of the Animal Rescue Team wildlife rehabilitation center, takes a phone call from someone who found a baby squirrel in the area. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 6 Angel the coyote was shot between the eyes and wandered for days or weeks in the Santa Ynez Valley until she was rescued. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 6 Julia di Sieno, executive director and co-founder of the Animal Rescue Team wildlife rehabilitation center, walks along the edge of the Mission Santa Ines watershed where Angel the coyote was rescued. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 6 Julia di Sieno, executive director and co-founder of the Animal Rescue Team wildlife rehabilitation center, prepares breakfast for Angel the coyote. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 6 Julia di Sieno, executive director and co-founder of the Animal Rescue Team wildlife rehabilitation center, feeds a baby squirrel that was brought to her center after someone in the area found it. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) I didnt know whether to cry in sadness or for joy, Di Seino, 55, said at the time. Angel went on to nurse and raise the pups, which in three months will be mature enough to be released in the wild. Her survival story attracted worldwide attention on Facebook, Instagram and in news reports, and unleashed a flood of financial donations from well-wishers for the nonprofit Animal Rescue Team, which runs on a shoestring budget and volunteer work. It also helped Di Seino to persuade the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to allow her to continue caring for the animal at the facility, which does not have a special state permit to keep a coyote on the premises indefinitely, or have easy access to a certified wildlife veterinarian. Angel was among dozens of orphaned, injured or cruelly abused animals bobcats, foxes, deer, squirrels, owls, geese, tortoises, lizards, snakes and an occasional mountain lion kept in the facilitys networks of wire cages, pens and terrariums. Mama coyote, blinded by a bullet, is alive thanks to animal rescuers But Di Seino said she developed a particularly strong cross-species bond with the ailing coyote she introduced to visitors earlier this week as a tough mama and a little sensation. She had hoped, she said, that Angel would become a surrogate mother for other young coyotes brought to the facility, or live out her life in an educational center elsewhere. The story of the coyotes survival touched people who heard it, bringing needed attention to the problem of wild animals that are wounded as humans encroach on what had been wild land, Di Seino said. Thats why Ive been spoiling her rotten with filet mignon, she added. As Angels health worsened in recent weeks, Di Seino and others began weighing the merits of survival vs. suffering. In an interview on Monday, Di Seino said she had made the gut-wrenching decision to put Angel down the following day. Shes done her job, she said, fighting back tears. I dont want to put her down, but I dont want her to suffer. On Tuesday morning, however, Di Seino said she had changed her mind about euthanizing the coyote after watching her navigate so well through knee-high weeds in a 1/4-acre pen at the facility. State wildlife authorities decided it was time to intervene and conduct a formal evaluation of the animals health. On Wednesday morning, Di Seino surrendered the coyote to state wardens and an independent wildlife veterinarian, who determined that the coyote was suffering and would never be healthy enough to release into the wild. The coyote was euthanized on Wednesday afternoon at a licensed wildlife care facility, Fish and Wildlife spokesman Andrew Hughan said. Its a sad story, Hughan said, but its over now; the animal is out of its misery. News of the animals death elicited emotional reactions from supporters including Fauna Tomlinson, a spokeswoman for the advocacy nonprofit group Project Coyote. Angel will be remembered as a living emblem of the power of motherhood and survival, Tomlinson said, and of the horrors human beings wreak on animals that share this planet. Conservationist Tom OKey, who came up with the idea of naming the coyote Angel after learning about its rescue, said, I was hoping for a happily-ever-after ending but that was not to be. I feel sorry for Julia, who worked so hard on behalf of this courageous animal, he said. Im happy that Angels puppies get to go on. I also applaud Fish and Wildlife for giving everybody a chance to do the best they could. As for the blind coyote, he said, I suppose we can say shes in heaven now. Louis.Sahagun@latimes.com @LouisSahagun ALSO Readers React: Our conversation on gun violence needs to include animal victims The fight to save hundreds of animals left behind when Border fire swept through region Bad luck bear is euthanized after injuring Angeles National Forest camper While guiding Los Angeles on its painful budget recovery, City Administrative Officer Miguel Santana often had to be the naysayer. He told the city no to hiring, he told the unions no to raises and he told the voters no to fixing sidewalks and streets without new taxes. But when it comes to the citys homeless crisis, Santana has a vision he believes the city cant say no to. Advertisement Stepping out of the CAOs traditional posture of neutral bureaucrat, Santana has become a prominent voice for new taxes to support his $1.8-billion homelessness plan. I think its time when we say an end to all the excuses. This is the time where we all must take responsibility. L.A. City Administrative Officer Miguel Santana, on efforts to end homelessness I think its time when we say an end to all the excuses, he said in a speech last month. This is the time where we all must take responsibility. From his college days as a shelter volunteer through his oversight of L.A. Countys Project 50 to identify and house skid rows most vulnerable residents, Santana has nurtured a sensitivity to the homeless that is now on full display. Its time that we move forward in a very aggressive way, he told an audience of donors during the speech last month as he accepted an honor from the homeless services group Shelter Partnership. That kind of rhetoric is not endemic to the office created in 1951 to independently advise the mayor and City Council on the budget, labor negotiations and policy. Even though the job is nonpolitical, there is room for the CAO to have a voice, said Raphael Sonenshein, executive director of the Pat Brown Institute at Cal State Los Angeles. But you dont want to be a CAO who overshadows the mayor or council or goes against their interest. When appearing in public, often at the side of the citys elected officials, Santana does nothing overtly to overshadow. His lightly inflected almost delicate speech is the model of bureaucratic reserve. Its the words themselves that pop. At a homeless summit this spring, he invoked the late Mayor Tom Bradleys grand transportation vision as his model. He insisted on moving it forward, Santana said. He brought in support to a point where a convincing case was made that all Angelenos should invest in it, and we have. Some City Hall watchers suggest Santana is nudging Mayor Eric Garcetti to be more aggressive on the issue. He just happens to be working in the administration of a mayor who takes a great deal of care before he steps out on anything, said longtime Democratic strategist Darry Sragow. In this situation clearly Miguel feels that the city needs to take major steps and so hes going to wind up being an advocate and a prod. He nudges us all, said Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson, chairman of the councils Homelessness and Poverty Committee. Where politicians can be overwhelmed by a problem that seems limitless, Harris-Dawson said, Santana has broken it down into concrete steps: a 47-point comprehensive plan, a price tag of $1.8 billion and a list of potential new taxes to pay for it. The City Council on Wednesday agreed to press forward with a large portion of that plan, voting unanimously to place a $1.2-billion property tax hike on the November ballot. The council is leaving open the possibility of pursuing an alternate $900-million property tax increase, which will be up for discussion Friday. In an interview, Santana characterized his stance as a confluence of his professional trajectory with his personal narrative. His encounter was at Whittier College in the late 1980s. As a college student I worked four years, first as a volunteer at a homeless shelter and eventually running the shelter myself, he said. Id spend many nights opening up the local hall at a church or a synagogue, helping homeless people, putting out cots, staying overnight with them, dealing with the occasional hostile situation, then closing up, Santana said. As rewarding as the work was, he saw that it had no permanent effects. We werent helping end homelessness, he said. We were keeping them alive during the coldest time of the year. Thats an important thing to do, but that doesnt end homelessness and results in seeing the same people year after year. Years later, as deputy chief executive officer overseeing all social services for Los Angeles County, Santana was engaged in Project 50, a pilot program that identified the most vulnerable skid row inhabitants and offered immediate housing backed by intense social services. At the height of the Great Recession, Santana failed to persuade the Board of Supervisors to expand Project 50 into Project 500, but today Santana credits one of its clients, whom he called only Mr. Livingstone, with enlightening him. It took an entire team working with Mr. Livingstone at the pace that he needed with the very deliberate persistent and compassionate approach of very talented case workers to convince him to move into housing, Santana said. It was through that that I learned and the bureaucracy learned that homelessness is an issue you solve one person at a time. Appointed by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in 2009 as the citys chief bureaucrat, Santana had little chance to act upon that principle. His first five years as city administrative officer were dominated by the budget crisis. Though famously soft-spoken, Santana proved steely in standing up for severe budget trims and demanding new taxes for service improvements. Cheryl Parisi, head of the Coalition of L.A. City Unions, declined to comment on his homeless proposals. But after he recommended that the city shed 4,000 employees during the Villaraigosa administration, labor groups tried to get incoming Mayor Garcetti to dump him. He survived that crisis and an earlier one in 2010 when a drunk driving conviction threatened his career. Since then hes practiced sobriety, he said. The experience further shaped his personal connection to the homeless people around him. At this point in his life, they are literally at his doorstep. After raising four daughters in Claremont, Santana, who is now divorced, lives in an apartment beside Pershing Square and embraces the downtown, walk-to-work lifestyle. But an adult daughter who lives with him told him she was uncomfortable on the walk to the nearby Whole Foods. She sometimes asks, Can we drive because Im embarrassed to walk with groceries in front of homeless people? Santana said in the interview. Its an image that captures everything that drives him. A lot of people wonder why the citys top bureaucrat would care about this issue, he told the 375 supporters of Shelter Partnership at the Biltmore Hotel dinner. I care about it not because I managed to have this as a part of my life for my entire adult life, but also it makes sense. It makes financial sense. It makes sense for the entire city. After receiving his award, as guests queued up to leave the parking lot, Santana walked home on streets that were deserted except for the shadowy shapes of sleeping homeless people. doug.smith@latimes.com Twitter: @LATDoug Seven counter-protesters have been charged with attacking members of the Ku Klux Klan during a so-called rally that turned into a bloody melee in Anaheim earlier this year, prosecutors said Thursday. The demonstrators were all charged with misdemeanor assault or battery or resisting arrest, according to a statement issued by the Orange County district attorneys office. This case is not about who was holding the protest rally, their racist message, or who was counter-protesting. This is about the mob mentality turning violent, which shut down neighboring streets, access to the park, and endangered the community as a whole, Orange County Dist. Atty. Tony Rackauckas said in a statement. Our office does not condone any message of hate, mob violence, or vigilante justice. Advertisement News that a small group of Klan members planned to hold a rally in Pearson Park drew a large crowd of counter-protesters to the scene on Feb. 28. More than 50 demonstrators arrived at the park around 10 a.m. and spent two hours speaking out against racism, police brutality and other issues during what started as a peaceful event. But chaos erupted when seven Klan members arrived at the park around noon. Counter-protesters swarmed the Klan members, setting off a series of brawls up and down West Cypress Street. Three demonstrators were stabbed, while blood stained the sidewalk next to the Klan members vehicle. The seven people charged were: Hugo Contreras, 28, of Hawthorne; Randy Felder, 26, of Lakewood; Guy Harris, 20, of Anaheim; Mark Liddell, 26, of Los Angeles; Armando Ortiz, 22, of Santa Ana; Nicole Schop, 24, of Los Angeles; and Alexis Solis, 23, who was identified as a transient. Prosecutors said Ortiz was among those stabbed. Ortiz and Harris were allegedly fighting with one of the Klan members, identified only as Charles D., when Ortiz was stabbed under the arm with a pocket knife, according to the statement from the district attorneys office. Anaheim Police had previously identified the Klan member who stabbed the protesters as Charles Donner, 51. Donner was initially booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, according to Sgt. Darron Wyatt, a city police spokesman. He was later released after police determined he acted in self-defense. Prosecutors are still searching for an eighth suspect who was seen kicking a Klansman in a video of the incident. Witnesses said the Klansmen used the point of a flagpole as a weapon while fighting with protesters. Police also said knives were used. Thomas Kielty, an attorney representing Contreras, Schop and Liddell, said his clients were simply trying to detain a Klan member who had stabbed one of the demonstrators. Kielty was one of several people who previously criticized the Anaheim Police Departments response to the rally. Despite having advance knowledge of the controversial event, the department did not appear to have a detail of uniformed officers at the park on the morning of the incident. Video of the incident shows Anaheim police cruisers arriving at the scene minutes after the stabbings took place. My clients were not there when the stabbing happened, they had started to leave, and apparently all hell broke loose and they saw people stabbed, bleeding, on the ground, Kielty told the Los Angeles Times on Thursday. People were saying the Klansmen stabbed these protesters and then the police are there just sort of chit-chatting with these guys. Kielty previously told The Times that Contreras had suffered a broken arm as police took him into custody. Wyatt has repeatedly declined to say how many officers were at the scene that day or comment directly on the departments handling of the incident. Asked about Contreras contention that his arm was broken during the arrest, Wyatt said officers used force to subdue the man, but added he was not aware of any injuries. Kielty accused the police and prosecutors of giving preferential treatment to the Klan. The OC DAs office gives Klansman Charles Donner a pass for self-defense after he violently stabbed several unarmed protesters, Kielty said in a follow-up to The Times. Self Defense must be reasonable. If [someone] tries to punch me I cannot shoot him and claim self-defense. A knife attack against unarmed protesters ... is not lawful, even if the unarmed counter-protester is throwing a punch. The charges come days after a similar rally erupted into violence in Sacramento. Members of the Traditionalist Worker Party, a national white separatist group, and the Golden State Skinheads, a known California white supremacy group, were attacked by counter-protesters on Capitol grounds on June 25, according to police. Seven people were stabbed and nine others were injured in that incident, according to police. No arrests have been made. james.queally@latimes.com Follow @JamesQueallyLAT for crime and police news in California. ALSO Former Long Beach school teacher arrested for alleged sexual abuse Man stabbed with butcher knife while watching The Shallows in movie theater Theater accidentally shows R-rated Sausage Party preview at Finding Dory screening UPDATES: 3:55 p.m.: This article was updated with additional comments from Anaheim Police and an attorney representing three of the defendants. 1:17 p.m.: This article was updated with additional information about the charges and comments from an attorney representing some of the protesters. This article was originally published at 12:54 p.m. A 120-pound black bear was euthanized Wednesday, days after it injured a man who was camping in the Angeles National Forest above Altadena, officials said. The female bear was found about 12 hours after Saturdays attack, and was hiding in a tree south of Millard Campground near Altadena, said Andrew Hughan, spokesman for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Fish and Wildlife officials tranquilized the bear and took it to a nearby facility, where authorities worked to determine whether it was the same ursine that attacked the camper. Advertisement Biologists took saliva, feces, hair and fiber samples from the bear and compared those with evidence collected at the campsite, he said. The departments Wildlife Forensics Laboratory works to identify bears involved in human attacks by sampling their saliva and hair left at the scene. Because the nearly 2-year-old bear hurt the camper, Fish and Wildlife officials decided to euthanize the animal based on the risk posed to public safety, Hughan said. It was bad luck for the camper and bad luck for the bear, he said. The attack occurred about 2 a.m. Saturday when the camper was looking at his iPad and his tent fell down on him. He didnt realize he was injured until he felt blood dripping on his face, officials said. The camper was taken to a nearby hospital and treated for a laceration on his forehead. The injury required 18 stitches, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Hughan said it remains unclear why the bear scratched the camper because it wasnt aggressive, nor was it hunting. Its possible an odor drew the young bear to the area, he added. The adolescent bear had likely separated from its family and was exploring the area, Hughan said, Its just like a teenager going out to college, he said. Bear attacks are incredibly rare in California, Hughan said. Euthanizations are even more rare. The last bear euthanized was near San Luis Obispo in June 2011, when a black bear broke into four chicken coops over four separate nights. The bear was deemed to be habituated, meaning it had become a nuisance problem and would have likely returned even if it was moved. Officers used rubber bullets and pepper balls to chase away the bear, which had already killed numerous chickens over two weeks. According to the Fish and Wildlife Department, habituated bears are not candidates for moving and shall either be humanely euthanized or placed with a permitted animal care facility upon failure of the corrective measures. One of those habituated bears was Meatball the Glendale bear, who earned national attention after he was caught eating frozen Costco meatballs from a garage refrigerator in 2012. He had been slated to be euthanized after repeatedly returning to the Angeles National Forest, but an animal sanctuary in San Diego County stepped in and took the animal. In the latest case, Hughan said the public-safety risk was incredibly high and that euthanization was the only option. On the day of the attack, two other campers reported seeing the bear running away from the area during the night. The unprovoked attack and sightings prompted Fish and Wildlife officials to close Millard Campground for three days as they tried to trap the bear. The campground has since been reopened. Similar trapping techniques were used in October 2012, when a 250-pound female bear attacked a 50-year-old woman as she was walking her dogs on a trail in the Los Padres National Forest. After the bear pushed the woman into an embankment, she played dead until it finally left the area. Fish and Wildlife officials set out traps in the area, but the bear never returned and was never caught. In that instance, Hughan said, the bear would have been likely euthanized. For breaking news in California, follow VeronicaRochaLA on Twitter For the second time in less than 18 months, Gov. Jerry Brown has rejected parole for a convicted killer and former shot-caller for the Mexican Mafia who developed an unusually close relationship with law enforcement. On Thursday, Brown reversed a February decision by a state parole board to free Rene Boxer Enriquez, who is serving life in prison for two murders committed in 1989. In a three-page letter outlining his decision, Brown acknowledged that Enriquez, 53, has made efforts to improve himself, including his participation in some self-help programs after Brown last rejected his parole in February 2015. Advertisement I commend Mr. Enriquez for taking these positive steps, but they are outweighed by the negative factors that demonstrate he remains unsuitable for parole, Brown wrote. Brown cited Enriquezs lengthy criminal history which also includes convictions for a jailhouse stabbing, gang rape and robbery and criticized his explanation for the violence, saying he blames the gang for his own choices. Brown expressed concern about the risk Enriquez presented if released from prison, noting he remains an active target for the Mexican Mafia since leaving the notorious prison gang. There is no doubt he is personally responsible for much more devastation, the governor said of Enriquez. Mr. Enriquez made a career of sophisticated gang warfare. The governor acknowledged the testimony from the adult children of one of Enriquezs victims, who addressed a parole board for the first time in February, begging the panel to keep their mothers killer behind bars. Cynthia Gavaldons family spoke movingly, Brown wrote, about their enduring loss and pain. Gavaldons son said he was surprised by the governors decision, saying he and his sister felt defeated when the parole board granted Enriquez another chance at freedom earlier this year. Gavaldons children were 6 and 8 years old when their mother was fatally shot in 1989. Walking out of there that day, I felt like our statement meant nothing, said Gavaldons son, who asked that his name not be published out of concerns for his safety. The governors decision, he continued, really gives us a sense of justice. Our voice really was heard, he said. Enriquezs attorney did not immediately return a phone call or email seeking comment. During Februarys parole board hearing, Enriquez acknowledged that he had committed brutal crimes but insisted he was now a different man. I know that Ive done a lot wrong, he said. But I know theres hope for my future. The killings occurred while Enriquez was on parole. He came to suspect that Gavaldon, 28, was stealing drugs from him that she was supposed to sell, according to court records. Enriquez wanted to set an example and ordered her execution, according to a probation report in the case. She was shot once in the head and once in the upper body. About a week later, Enriquez targeted a member of the Mexican Mafia who had fallen out of favor with the gang for running away from a fight, according to parole records. Enriquez said he gave the victim an overdose of heroin and thought he might be dead, but shot him five times in the head anyway. While awaiting trial, Enriquez and another inmate jumped a man in a jailhouse waiting room, stabbing him 26 times with metal shanks. In another incident, Enriquez stabbed a second man while in custody. Both men survived the attacks. He pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison. More than a decade ago, Enriquez left the prison gang. Since then, he has developed an almost celebrity-like status among law enforcement. He has testified in scores of cases, filmed training videos for police and lectured at law enforcement conferences across the state. Hes also helped teach a college course via Skype and collaborated on books, including a biography of his life, The Black Hand. Last year, he caused a stir when the Los Angeles police brought him to speak to a group of elite business owners at a private downtown L.A. event. The January 2015 lecture, which was widely reported in the media, prompted criticism over whether it was an appropriate use of LAPD resources and raised questions about Enriquezs relationship with law enforcement. Gavaldons son said the events over the last year and a half the first chance at parole, the rejection, another chance at parole, the latest rejection triggered difficult memories for his family. Theyve decided to move on. Whatever happens in the future, hes going to have to answer to God, he said. Its too much to handle over and over again. We dont want to relive it anymore. kate.mather@latimes.com Follow me on Twitter: @katemather ALSO Garcetti nominates attorney Cynthia McClain-Hill to Police Commission Help Santa Ana police find and prosecute this shooter and get a $100,000 reward An assault on her is an assault on us all: U.S. oldest park ranger beaten and robbed in her home UPDATES: 5:34 p.m.: This article was updated with comments from Cynthia Gavaldons son. 4:34 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details from Gov. Jerry Browns letter and background information about Rene Boxer Enriquez. This article was originally published at 3:22 p.m. A former Long Beach school teacher was arrested last week after authorities received a report about sexual abuse alleged to have occurred from 2007 to 2009, police announced Thursday. Jason Gorski, 43, surrendered to Buena Park police on June 21 and was booked on suspicion of sex crimes with a child under 14 and continuous sexual abuse of a child, according to Sgt. Mike Lovchik. Gorski worked as the boys school teacher and as an elder within their Jehovahs Witness church congregation in Cypress, police said. We have no evidence at this point that any crimes occurred in the church or at the school, Lovchik said. Advertisement Police were contacted by a man who said he was abused from 2007 to 2009, from the ages of 12 to 15, authorities said. It came to an end when it was reported to the church, but it was only recently reported to authorities, police said. The crimes reportedly occurred in Buena Park, Lovchik said. Gorski remains free on $100,000 bail, he said. A man who answered the phone at the Cypress congregation and who refused to identify himself said Gorski was no longer part of the congregation and declined to comment further. Im not allowed to give out any information regarding him, he said. Gorski worked as a school teacher at Southwestern Longview Private School for approximately three to four years and his employment ended in April 2007. The school permanently closed at the end of the school year in June 2007, police said. Gorski attended the Cypress congregation for several years and was appointed as an elder of the congregation in May 2007. After the disclosure to the church in 2009, police said, Gorski was removed as an elder but continued to attend services. Sometime around 2010, Gorski relocated to South Carolina and became a part of a nearby Jehovahs Witness congregation, police said. It is unclear whether police arrested Gorski in South Carolina. Over the years, many children have been exposed to Gorski, specifically during his time as a school teacher and church leader, police said. It is believed that additional victims may exist who have not yet reported their abuse to authorities. People with knowledge of any abuse by Gorski are asked to contact Buena Park police at 714-562-3963. Follow me on Twitter @brittny_mejia ALSO California attorney general subpoenas oil refiners in gas-price probe Measure to speed up executions in California qualifies for November ballot Big dreams for a Little Tokyo gym project that is close to getting built UPDATES: 2:21 p.m.: This post was updated with additional details from Buena Park police. This article was originally published at 12:40 p.m. Earthquake? It can be frustrating finding out how big an earthquake was, and where it struck, in the seconds following a temblor. But starting Thursday, Google says its going to provide searchers with instant access to the size of the earthquake and a map of where it struck without needing to click on a link. With the new search, people will begin seeing earthquake results immediately after the ground begins to shake, showing a magnitude, a map and tips on what to do next, such as to expect aftershocks and to stay away from the beach to avoid tsunami. Advertisement Look at the animation below, from Google, to see how the new search for earthquake would work. Oftentimes, you really want to know whether you just felt a small earthquake nearby, or a larger earthquake farther away, Google software engineer Chris Keitel wrote in a blog post. Youll be able to quickly assess the reach of the earthquake, as well as its epicenter. Were trying to give that information as quickly as possible, Susan Cadrecha, spokeswoman for Googles search team, said in an interview. In the seconds after an earthquake, Google results in the past might have been confusing showing, say, a webpage about a distant earthquake that occurred long ago. Interested in the stories shaping California? Sign up for the free Essential California newsletter >> But with many smartphones and computers now aware of where they are in the world, Google is better able to give geographically specific information to readers in seconds. If you have your location history turned on, that is how we would be able to locate you, Cadrecha said. For those who have their location history turned off, the same results would be available by typing in, for example, earthquake Los Angeles or earthquake San Francisco, Cadrecha said. Google has also prepared itself for large-earthquake scenarios involving many damaging aftershocks. In that situation, the 10 largest seismic events will pop up at the top of the search page, Cadrecha said. Earthquakes will have to be magnitude 2.5 or greater for the new search option to show itself. The earthquake information will be fed to Google by the U.S. Geological Survey, but will be available to Google users around the world searching for earthquakes in English. The USGS welcomed Googles efforts to speed earthquake information to its readers. Ensuring that our earthquake information gets to the people who need it is very important to the U.S. Geological Survey, and we are pleased that Google is finding creative approaches to help make that happen, USGS Earthquake Hazards Program Coordinator William Leith said in a statement. ALSO Historic theaters gain new life as retail stores YouTube star charged with filing false police report after saying he was beaten near WeHo gay club Idris Elba, Emma Watson, Ice Cube among 683 invited to join the movie academy the largest, most diverse class ever A preliminary investigation by the San Diego County medical examiner determined that charred remains found in Potrero Wednesday are human and appear to be those of a male and female. The two sets of charred human remains were located between a couple of boulders on a hill, 50 to 70 yards from the closest dwelling, near State Route 94, the medical examiners office said in a release. The remains appear to be those of a male and female, but because of heat injuries they are not visually identifiable, the office said. Advertisement An autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death has not yet been scheduled and notification of next of kin is pending the identification process. Residents near the U.S.-Mexico border said Wednesday that they had found the bodies, believed to be those of a couple who had been missing since the 7,609-acre Border fire erupted near Potrero last week. Potrero is east of San Diego, just north of the Mexican border town of Tecate. The San Diego County Sheriffs Department confirmed the discovery Wednesday afternoon. Deputies had searched the area Monday and Tuesday but had found nothing, said Jan Caldwell, a sheriffs spokeswoman. We searched the property, which is rather large and difficult terrain, Caldwell said. We did not have success its a very difficult property to search. Potrero resident Iris Gardner said searchers believed the remains were those of Jim Keefe, known locally as Barefoot Jim, and his girlfriend, Kyrie. Gardner said she did not know the girlfriends last name. The pair had been missing for roughly a week. The Border fire, which is now 97% contained, is one of many large fire crews have been battling in extremely hot, dry conditions. As of Thursday, more than 4,900 firefighters were battling nine wildfires throughout California, according to California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokesman Daniel Berlant. San Diego Union-Tribune staff writer Pauline Repard contributed to this report. Follow me on Twitter @brittny_mejia ALSO Border fire in San Diego County is 70% contained, and evacuations are lifted The fight to save hundreds of animals left behind when Border fire swept through region Wildfires across California consume nearly 60,000 acres UPDATES: 10:51 a.m.: This post was updated with details on statewide firefighting efforts. This article was originally published at 9:12 a.m. California is no stranger to wild police pursuits, but a recent freeway chase involving a go-kart may well be a first. In a now viral video, the driver of a go-kart was filmed zooming down Interstate 880 in Oakland on Sunday while a black SUV with lights and sirens chased it down the highway. Crowds standing along the busy highway cheered the driver as he whizzed by them. The video has drawn the attention of law enforcement officers, who say they are looking into the incident. Its certainly unusual, said Officer Sean Wilkenfeld, spokesman for the California Highway Patrol in Oakland. Interested in the stories shaping California? Sign up for the free Essential California newsletter >> What makes the episode so unusual is that not only is the identity of the go-kart driver unknown, it is not even clear if they were being chased by a police vehicle. Spokespeople for the CHP, the Alameda County Sheriffs Department and the Oakland Police Department all said the pursuing SUV was not one of their vehicles. Rapper Tonka Dre, who filmed the pursuit and posted it to Snapchat and Twitter, said the driver was participating in a meet-up with other go-kart and dirt bike riders who travel around Oakland. This particular person on the go kart was the slowest and the last in the pack and that's why he was being chased by police, Dre tweeted. If that pursuit wasnt odd enough, authorities followed a stolen Budweiser truck on Wednesday in a slow-speed chase in Modesto. A man stole the Budweiser truck, then led authorities from the Modesto Police Department, Stanislaus County Sheriffs Department and CHP along California 99. The man eventually jumped out of the truck as it was still moving, according to the CHP in Modesto. A CHP officer got into the truck and stopped it before it entered a busy intersection. The man, who ran from the scene, was caught and taken into custody. For breaking news in California, follow VeronicaRochaLA on Twitter. ALSO Help Santa Ana police find and prosecute this shooter and get a $100,000 reward Man stabbed with butcher knife while watching 'The Shallows' in California theater Theater accidentally shows R-rated 'Sausage Party' preview at 'Finding Dory' screening An attorney and public policy strategist could become the latest member of the Los Angeles Police Commission, replacing a longtime commissioner whose second term is expiring. Mayor Eric Garcetti announced Thursday that he had nominated Cynthia McClain-Hill to the five-person police oversight panel, taking the seat of Robert Saltzman, who has served on the board since 2007. The City Council must approve the nomination before McClain-Hill joins the board. Advertisement In a statement, Garcetti described McClain-Hill as a respected attorney whose impressive record of service will bring valuable experience to the Police Commission. We are at an important moment in the history of the Los Angeles Police Department, the mayor said. She is an independent thinker with a sharp and analytical mind, and shares my vision for an LAPD that fully embraces the demands of 21st century policing and gives officers the steady support they need to keep our streets safe. The Police Commission oversees the operations of the 10,000-officer force, sets LAPD policies and has an inspector general who investigates and audits the department on its behalf. In one of its most important roles, the board decides whether police shootings and other serious uses of force were appropriate. Its a responsibility that has come under greater scrutiny as police officers across the country have been criticized for how they use force, particularly against African Americans. If her appointment is approved, McClain-Hill would be one of two black commissioner, as well as its third female member. McClain-Hills appointment comes as the Police Commission has taken an increasingly hands-on oversight role, particularly when it comes to use of deadly force. The board has recently directed the LAPD to find ways to reduce shootings by officers by revamping department rules, revising training and making more less-lethal devices available. Those efforts have been praised by Garcetti and others across the city, including civil rights leaders. However, some activists affiliated with the Black Lives Matter movement have criticized the commissioners, disrupting their weekly meetings and accusing the board of not doing enough to improve the LAPD. Saltzman, who also was an associate dean at the USC Gould School of Law, is wrapping up his second term as a police commissioner. He served on the board for nine years longer than any other current member and often took a tough stance on key issues, providing the lone vote against reappointing Chief Charlie Beck and against the departments rules for using body cameras. On Thursday, the president of the Police Commission praised Saltzman for what he described as truly outstanding service on the board. He served through numerous challenging events as a police commissioner, Matt Johnson said. His experience and wisdom will be missed. McClain-Hill has deep ties to Los Angeles, attending UCLA as both an undergraduate and law student. She was widely quoted in the Los Angeles Times and other media outlets during the trial of the LAPD officers who beat Rodney King and the citys post-riot years. At the time, she also published a political newsletter geared to the black community. In 2009, The Times reported that federal investigators had questioned people about whether County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas played any improper role in the hiring of McClain-Hill by a contractor building the Expo Line rail project. At the time, McClain-Hill told the newspaper that Ridley-Thomas had nothing to do with her hiring and complained that the accusations were politically motivated by Ridley-Thomas rivals. She also questioned whether there was actually an investigation into the matter. In any case, no charges were ever filed. McClain-Hill cofounded Strategic Counsel, which describes itself as a firm that blends legal and lobbying expertise with strong public policy outreach and strategic communications capabilities. McClain-Hills focus is land use, environmental law and regulatory practice, according to her companys website. Shes also served on the California Coastal Commission, the California Fair Political Practices Commission, the National Assn. of Women Business Owners and on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. McClain-Hill has contributed money to Garcettis mayoral bids, including his current campaign, but also donated to Garcettis 2013 rival, Wendy Greuel. McClain-Hills name was also listed on a 2013 flier promoting an event hosted by Women with Wendy. Najee Ali, a civil rights activist focused on South L.A., said Garcetti put aside political grudges for the best interest of our city in nominating McClain-Hill to the Police Commission. He described her as an iconic figure in our community. Johnson, the Police Commission president, also backed Garcettis choice, saying McClain-Hills experience with the kind of complex issues that come before the commission would add an important perspective as the board works to strengthen public trust in police and build upon the LAPDs work. I think Cynthia would be an outstanding commissioner, he said. kate.mather@latimes.com Follow me on Twitter: @katemather UPDATES: 9:43 p.m.: This story was updated with additional background information about McClain-Hill. 7:23 p.m.: This story was updated with more background information about McClain-Hill and a comment from activist Najee Ali. This article was originally published at 2:52 p.m. Two of three people whose bodies were found this week inside a Rancho Santa Fe home have been identified as the homeowners teenage daughter and his longtime friend, a real estate broker from Los Angeles, sources said Wednesday. Although county officials have not yet released the names of the two women and one teenage girl who died inside the home, friends and relatives have confirmed through phone calls and social media that the youngest was Hannah Arya, 15, whose father Michael Arya bought the house 18 months ago. He died in April after a battle with lung cancer. On June 19, Hannah posted a photo on her Instagram account showing herself as a child sitting on her fathers lap. The message posted with the photo read, Happy Fathers Day! I miss you more and more every day. Advertisement After the bodies were found on Monday, people who follow the teens social media account posted messages expressing their sadness and shock over her death. They described her as a kind, loving and beautiful girl. Rest in peace, beautiful soul, one commenter said. See our top stories on our Facebook page Hannah was a student at Verde Valley School, a boarding and day school in Sedona, Ariz. Her mother lives in Oregon. She was so smart and she was just full of life, Leyla Kaya, a friend and former employee of Michael Arya, said during a phone interview Wednesday. Kaya said she had struck up a friendship with Mia Shin, 56, the real estate broker who was close friends with Michael Arya, and had tried to look out for after Hannah as much as she could after the fathers death. She said Shin was one of the two adults found inside the house. Kaya said she, Shin and Hannah spent time together in downtown San Diego on Saturday while they waited to pick up one of Hannahs friends from the airport. Hannah had flown into town that day as well. The energy in her eyes, I was just so amazed by her, said Kaya, who said she had known and spent time with Hannah when she was a much younger child. She described the teen as savvy and intelligent, a young woman with a mind for politics. Michael was a walking encyclopedia, Kaya said. And his daughter was his little prodigy. Shins sister also confirmed Wednesday that Shin was one of the two adults found in the home on Via de la Valle. The sister, who asked not to be identified by name, said the family grew up in La Jolla Shin went to La Jolla High School and was visiting with Hannah at the time of their deaths. The sister said Shin was acting as a chaperone to Hannah, who had returned to her fathers home in San Diego during her time off from school. They were going to just relax at the house... , the sister said. I think my sister really appreciated the fact that Hannah wanted to be with her [during her visit]. She respected my sister. ALSO Earthquake? Google promises faster information and a map 2,600 buildings threatened by Northern California wildfire, forcing residents to flee Student who suffered brain damage in pep rally attack while wearing a chicken costume is awarded $10.5 million An anonymous donor is offering a $100,000 reward to help capture and convict a masked gunman who ambushed and shot a marijuana dispensary owner in Santa Ana last fall. The victim, 48-year-old Derek Warden, said he always looks over his shoulder since the Nov. 2 attack and has hired around-the-clock armed guards to protect him and his business, South Coast Safe Access on East Warner Avenue. I want to protect myself and I want to protect my family. I have a fiance and five children, Warden said in a phone interview Thursday. My goal is to find this shooter. This shooter will probably lead to the suspect or suspects that had something to do with this. Advertisement Though neither Warden nor police would offer a possible motive for the shooting, officials said video of the incident makes it clear it wasnt a random attack or robbery. He laid in wait for the victim for quite some time, said Santa Ana police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna. We dont know if this is some kind of dispute, business problems or some kind of hit. Warden would not identify the donor but said they want the shooter found at any cost. I know this donor is ready to hand the money over, Ill tell you that, he said. The gunman was described as between 20 and 30 years old with a thin build and standing between 5 foot 4 and 5 foot 6. He wore dark pants, a hoodie and had a mask over his face during the attack. The gunman opened fire while standing near the right front tire of Wardens car while the business owner was in the drivers seat. All I remember was I got in my car and all of a sudden I heard a pop pop, pop pop. I dont remember much after that, Warden said. The first bullet grazed my shoulder. The second and third went through my head restthe fourth went through the passenger door and hit my abdomen. See the most-read stories this hour >> The gunman ran off when a security guard ran out of the dispensary following the gunshots, Warden said. The attack, which occurred at about 3 p.m., put Warden in a coma for five days and cost him his gallbladder. A bullet is still lodged in his back near his hip, he said. Police said leads on the attack have gone cold. Its up to a new tip to help crack the case, Bertagna said. I think $100,000 is going to make the phone right at Santa Ana P.D., Warden said. They think this will help. Well soon find out. For breaking California news, follow @JosephSerna on Twitter. ALSO Former Long Beach school teacher arrested after sexual abuse allegations Man stabbed with butcher knife while watching The Shallows in California theater Theater accidentally shows R-rated Sausage Party preview at Finding Dory screening The Pentagon on Thursday lifted a long-standing ban against transgender men and women serving openly in the military, removing one of its last discriminatory hurdles and placing gender identity on par with race, religion, color, sex and sexual orientation. The announcement by Defense Secretary Ashton Carter is part of a fundamental shift in the straight-laced, male-dominated U.S. military, which in 2011 ended discrimination against gays and lesbians. More recently, it opened all combat positions to women and appointed the first openly gay Secretary of the Army, Eric K. Fanning. Our mission is to defend this country, and we dont want barriers unrelated to a persons qualification to serve preventing us from recruiting or retaining the soldier, sailor, airman or Marine who can best accomplish the mission, Carter said. We have to have access to 100% of Americas population for our all-volunteer force to be able to recruit from among them the most highly qualified and to retain them. Advertisement Ending the transgender ban, which followed an extensive one-year review, will affect a small fraction of individuals serving in the armed forces, or about 0.1% of the approximately 2 million active and reserve members in the U.S military. Still the social and political ramifications are likely to be felt more broadly. The military has often been a trailblazer in taking steps against discrimination, most notably ending segregation of African Americans in the 1940s. The move also comes as conservative states like North Carolina and others push to impose new restrictions on transgender men and women, such as requiring them to use public bathrooms based on the gender stated on their birth certificates. Critics in Congress were quick to respond. Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Texas), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said in a statement that the decision was the latest example of the Pentagon and the president prioritizing politics over policy. Privately, some senior military leaders believe the Pentagon is moving too fast and has not yet resolved issues related to implementation of the plan. In recent weeks, Carter has met with military chiefs to hear concerns and suggestions to ease the process. Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., former Marine commandant and now chairman of the Joint Chiefs, was noticeably absent during Carters announcement. Officials said he was hosting a generals retirement party. This is my decision, Carter said when asked about Dunfords absence. However, we have arrived at it together, the senior leadership of the department. The move came nearly five years after the formal end of dont ask, dont tell, a 17-year-old policy that barred gays and lesbians from serving openly in the military. Under that policy, thousands of men and women in uniform were expelled because of their sexual identity. Openly gay civilian employees at the Defense Department faced similar discrimination until 1995 because they often could not obtain security clearances needed to work in national security agencies. The Pentagon took its first significant step toward lifting the ban on transgender service members last July when Carter announced a six-month study designed to examine what it would take to make the change. Under the old rule, the Pentagon banned transgender troops from openly serving. If they revealed their transgender identity, they could be kicked out or denied reenlistment solely on that basis. The new plan will be phased in over a one-year period, but transgender service members currently on duty will be able to immediately serve openly. Carter gave the armed services until Oct. 1 to create medical and training plans and until July 1, 2017, for full implementation. The Pentagon does not have a precise count of how many transgender men and women are in the services now because they face discharge if they reveal their identities. Out of an estimated 1.3 million active service members, there are as many as 6,630 transgender men and women who will be affected by the decision, according to a study by RAND Corp., the Santa Monica-based think tank. Only a small portion of service members would likely seek gender transition-related medical treatments that would affect their deployability or healthcare costs, said Agnes Gereben Schaefer, lead author of the study and a senior political scientist at RAND. The study, commissioned by the Pentagon, estimates that between 30 and 140 new hormone treatments a year could be initiated by transgender service members. In addition, there may be 25 to 130 gender transition-related surgeries utilized a year among active service members. As a result, U.S. military healthcare costs are expected to increase between $2.4 million and $8.4 million or a 0.13% increase. Carter said gender reassignment surgery and other treatment deemed medically necessary by a physician may be covered in as soon as 90 days. Transgender men and women seeking to join the military would be required to wait 18 months after transitioning before being accepted. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, or LGBT, groups applauded the Pentagon for opening the door to equality for transgender soldiers. Aaron Belkin, director of the Palm Center, a LGBT research institute based in San Francisco, said the ban against transgender men and women crumbled with record speed in comparison to the protracted battles involving race-, gender-, and sexual orientation-based discrimination. With the repeal of dont ask, dont tell and the elimination of the combat exclusion rule on women, todays historic step to end transgender discrimination completes the Obama administrations successful effort to strengthen our armed forces by ensuring that service is based on peoples merit and not their personal identity, he said. The Palm Center estimates that there are about 12,600 transgender members of the U.S. military, making the Defense Department the largest employer of transgender people in America. Questions remain about how the department will handle cases of service members who transition after joining the military, such as determining which bathrooms they would use or where they would shower and sleep during the process. A senior military official, who was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, told a group of reporters those topics and others would be addressed over the next year. We havent made determinations, the official said. Were going to trust our commanders to deal with it. Carter stressed that during his tenure, he has been impressed with the transgender soldiers he has encountered. Theyve deployed all over the world, serving on aircraft, submarines, forward operating bases and right here in the Pentagon, Carter said. One service member I had met with described how some people had urged him to leave the military, because of the challenges he was facing with our policies, and he said he just wouldnt quit. He was too committed to the mission, and this is where he wanted to be. william.hennigan@latimes.com | Twitter: @wjhenn ALSO A proud soldier as a man, and maybe once again as a woman Why do transgender people join the military in such high numbers? Border officials clear agents in four deadly force cases Trump was once so involved in trying to block an Indian casino that he secretly approved attack ads UPDATES: 2:59 p.m.: This post was updated with additional details and reaction. 10:43 a.m.: This post has been updated with a statement by Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. This post was originally published at 10:30 a.m. Karma can be so cruel. Just think how many times anti-GMO activists have protested against the imaginary risks of food that has been genetically modified. Now a favorite snack of those same protesters, the sacred granola bar, has been found to pose an actual health risk. Anti-genetic engineering campaigns are among the activities bankrolled by organizations such as the Clif Bar Family Foundation, which uses the considerable profits it receives from selling healthy and natural snack foods to denigrate the products of modern farming and extol supposedly superior organic alternatives. Like Clif Bars. The truth is that paying the organic tax the price premium associated with organic products makes you no healthier. Recalls of organic foods amounted to 7% of all food units recalled in 2015, even though organic farms account for only about 1% of agricultural acreage. In early June, several types of Clif Bars were recalled from stores because they contained organic sunflower kernels potentially contaminated with a bacterium called listeria. Food poisoning from this nasty bug kills hundreds of Americans every year. Advertisement Fortunately, the problem was detected before anyone was sickened by the Clif Bars or other affected organic snacks that were made by Kashi and Bear Naked, both subsidiaries of Kellogg. These products all contained seeds from SunOpta, which describes itself as a leading global company focused on organic, nongenetically modified (non-GMO) and specialty foods. A similar sort of karmic revenge struck Chipotle Mexican Grill last year. The fast-food restaurant chain had sought to gain market share with ads that vilified conventional agriculture and boldly proclaimed their move toward no GMO ingredients. But the company proved more adept at marketing than safe food preparation, and about 60 customers in 20 states were sickened by norovirus or bacteria (E.coli and salmonella). Twenty were hospitalized. The superior safety and environmental benefits of food made from genetically engineered plants have been proven over decades. Many genetically engineered crops resist insects and contamination with dangerous fungal toxins such as mycotoxins. And unlike new crop varieties modified with less precise, less predictable techniques that are permitted in organic agriculture, genetically engineered crops have all been exhaustively tested and are subject to government regulation. Organic farming practices reject many modern technological farming advances as if there were some sort of golden age of agriculture when primitive techniques produced better results. That notion is complete nonsense. A 2012 report by researchers at Stanford Universitys Center for Health Policy analyzed data from 237 studies to determine whether organic foods are safer or healthier than nonorganic foods. They concluded that fruits and vegetables that met the criteria for organic were on average no more nutritious than their far cheaper conventional counterparts, nor were those foods less likely to be contaminated by bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella. Why on Earth would anyone think that using raw manure as a fertilizer -- in essence spreading feces on food plants -- produces healthier food? Some of the potential problems with organic produce seem like a matter of common sense. Why on Earth would anyone think that using raw manure as a fertilizer in essence spreading feces on food plants produces healthier food for the dining table? (Its allowed, but the FDA requires certain intervals between the application of raw manure and harvesting.) And the widely held belief which the organic industry promotes that organic growers dont use pesticides is simply untrue. Although modern pesticides are prohibited, according to data from USDA, there is extensive cheating. Moreover, many of the primitive pesticides permitted to organic farmers pose significant dangers. As evolutionary biologist Christie Wilcox explained in a 2012 Scientific American article: Organic pesticides pose the same health risks as nonorganic ones. For example, neem oil, a bug killer, is considered natural because the substance is found in the seeds of a tree, but natural doesnt mean safe. The stuff is known to cause seizures and comas in humans if consumed in large doses, and it kills bumblebees at very low concentrations. Modern science has designed far better pesticides than neem oil that are safer, more targeted and much more effective at significantly lower concentrations. Modern pesticide seed treatments, for example, mean that crops can sometimes be grown with little, if any, need for spraying plants. Despite the overwhelming scientific evidence in favor of the safety of modern agriculture, Clif Bar isnt backing down. The companys website contains anti-genetic engineering propaganda: GMOs are simply the latest Band-Aid on a broken system a faulty tool in the conventional, chemically dependent farming system. The multibillion-dollar organic food industry devotes massive resources to perpetuating the myth that 19th century farming methods make food healthier and better for the environment because it has to persuade consumers to spend on average an extra 50%, or more, for its products. Better to be guided by the facts instead of fears promulgated by self-interested food activists. Henry I. Miller, a physician and molecular biologist, is a fellow at Stanford Universitys Hoover Institution. He was the founding director of the Office of Biotechnology at the FDA. MORE FROM OPINION Why the anti-Israel boycott movement is an immoral threat to peace The conservative era of the Supreme Court is over Dont reward Donald Trump for softening his ban on Muslims Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook The digital revolution was supposed to create an age of empowered microentrepreneurship, with power devolving to the masses. Instead, weve got the new Robber Barons: Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Google, with Uber and a few others trying to join this profitable circle of global oligopolies. In the United States, Amazon increasingly dominates the retail landscape. It handles about 40% of all book sales. For online sales of all merchandise, Amazons market share keeps increasing; its estimated that, for each additional dollar Americans spend online this year, about 50 cents will be spent with Amazon. Its market value is now about $300 billion. As with Amazon, Facebook has immense power over suppliers who reach customers using its platform. Facebooks market value is $300 billion. It has 1.5 billion users worldwide, and an estimated 40% share of the social media market. On average, users spend almost an hour per day on Facebook. And about 40% of Americans get at least some of their news via the social network. Advertisement The statistics for Google and Apple are equally impressive. Each of these companies benefits from some combination of large upfront investment costs, low marginal costs, and network effects the traditional recipe for a monopoly or oligopoly. At this stage, it would be immensely difficult financially for a new entrant to compete. These factors provide the new Robber Barons with the ability to take advantage of their suppliers, employees and customers. This isnt just an abstract concern about what could possibly happen in the future Apple and Google have already admitted to colluding to depress employee wages. And working conditions in Amazons warehouses seem, at times, a throwback to 19th century capitalism. Market power of this magnitude isnt unprecedented; weve faced similar challenges in the past. Before the rise of cable, TV was only distributed via airwaves. Under the best circumstances, broadcasting companies were going to have oligopoly power: There was only a limited electromagnetic spectrum. But the government prevented monopolies by limiting the number of broadcast licenses any one company could own, either nationally or in a local market. It also dealt with the possibility that station owners would use their broadcasting power to manipulate political events by imposing the Equal Time Rule (broadcasters must provide equivalent opportunities to all political candidates) and the Fairness Doctrine (broadcasters must present both sides of controversies of public importance in an honest and balanced manner). Similarly, the old Bell System had a monopoly on the telephone industry for most of the 20th century. If you wanted to contact someone by phone, you had to use the Bell System. The government first addressed Bells position through price regulation. Then in 1982, it broke up the company as part of a court-ordered settlement, setting the stage for actual competition, new technologies and, indirectly, our current telecommunications revolution. The original Robber Barons fought, on all fronts, to maintain their monopolistic advantage... Our new Robber Barons will likely react the same way. Government antitrust interventions have promoted innovation in the past, and should again be employed to make conditions more favorable for competitors and consumers. Let me offer a few suggestions: Break up companies with excessive market share. Broadcast TV, as noted above, was a natural oligopoly because of limited spectrum. Absent a compelling technological reason for a monopoly or oligopoly, the government should move to split up large companies. Amazon, for instance, could be split along product lines (a separate company for books, housewares, etc.), geographically (by regions), or vertically (with fulfillment centers separated from the rest of the company). Prevent large companies from using their significant market share to extract monopolistic rent. When the book publisher Hachette wouldnt agree to Amazons terms, Amazon made it difficult for consumers to buy Hachette books. Giants shouldnt be allowed to arbitrarily crush parts of their supply chain. Impose clear, fair and nonarbitrary rules concerning when monopolies and oligopolies can refuse to serve customers. Social media is an increasingly key part of how we communicate. Yet legally, nothing stops Facebook from simply banning users from its platform, for any reason it wishes. This isnt a moot concern. When Facebook objected to some material the American Civil Liberties Union posted on its pages, Facebook suspended its account. The ACLU was able to get its account turned on again, but who knows how many less prominent advocacy groups have been prevented from communicating via the network. Regulating or breaking up large digital companies wont be easy. In the late 19th century, the old Standard Oil Trust controlled an estimated 90% of the refined petroleum industry. Although the trust was first sued on antitrust grounds in the 1890s, it successfully resisted breakup until 1911. The original Robber Barons fought, on all fronts, to maintain their monopolistic advantage: in the courts with armies of lawyers; politically with campaign donations (one senator was only half-jokingly referred to as the Senator from Standard Oil); and through public relations campaigns, arguing that their size served the public interest, or that their power wasnt as extensive as it appeared. Our new Robber Barons will likely react the same way to any threat to their profits. But if we dont act, we risk stifling future innovation and being crushed by these new corporate giants. Steven Strauss is a visiting professor at Princeton Universitys Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook Soon after an American Indian tribe announced plans to open a casino at a Catskills horse track, ads started appearing in local newspapers and on radio, sounding an alarm about unbridled crime and corruption. They came from the New York Institute for Law and Society, a new self-described grass-roots anti-gambling group targeting the St. Regis Mohawks. Its campaign in 2000, supposedly supported by 12,000 pro-family donors, warned of the evils an Indian casino would bring: increased crime, broken families, bankruptcies and, in the case of the Mohawks, violence. But there were no 12,000 donors. Virtually all the money for the campaign, more than $1 million, came from Donald Trump. Advertisement The institute was the brainchild of Trumps longtime lobbyist and consultant, Roger Stone, and Trump himself was hands-on not just paying the bills, but signing off on ad copy or radio scripts depicting the tribe as violent criminals and drug dealers. When Stone hired private investigators to dig up dirt on the Mohawks, Trump secretly paid the bills. Roger This could be good! Trump scrawled across one ad that included a picture of hypodermic needles and lines of powder meant to depict cocaine, underneath the headline: Drug Dealing at Monticello?, the name of the track. The ad ran in Catskills newspapers, credited to the institute. Trump has pointed to his experience in business and real estate as the main argument for why he should be president. As he prepares to accept the Republican presidential nomination at the partys convention in July, some of the more combative and controversial episodes in his long career, including the anti-Mohawk campaign, are coming under renewed scrutiny. Hundreds of pages of records from a New York agencys investigation into the ad campaign, obtained by the Los Angeles Times, reveal new details about Trumps covert fight against the tribe. It was unusual not only for how deeply involved he was, but for the sharp tone of the attacks and the elaborate attempt to conceal his role. Stone told state investigators that he thought the public might pay attention to a pro-family group, but not to Trump, a loud and longtime critic of Native American gambling who was trying to stave off competition for his three casinos in Atlantic City. You could hide Trumps actions? From the public? the investigators grilled Stone. And you did that? Over and over again? Yes, Stone answered each time, finally adding: Nothing wrong with that, by the way. The agency, the states Temporary Commission on Lobbying, disagreed. Trump paid $250,000 for violating state law on lobbying and was forced to make a rare public apology. Election 2016 | Live coverage on Trail Guide | Sign up for the newsletter In a recent interview, Stone said the ads were accurate, based on news accounts, and insisted that the casino campaign broke no laws. He said Trump, whose presidential campaign did not respond to detailed questions, was entitled to secrecy, like other donors to nonprofit advocacy groups. Sorry, kiss my ..., thats a 1st Amendment issue, Stone said, adding that the ads werent lobbying because they didnt advocate for or against specific bills. Donald wanted to settle because it was easier. We both thought we could win a long, drawn-out case. In the rough-and-tumble casino business, Trump was not the only executive to use a public-opinion campaign to try to thwart would-be rivals. Tribes themselves have spent heavily to block competitors, including in California. The St. Regis tribe of Mohawk Indians opened a casino in 1999, on ancestral land in New York. The tribe had ambitions to capture more of the New York City gambling market and began working on a deal to open a casino at Monticello Raceway in the Catskill Mountains, less than two hours from the city. At the time, Atlantic City was the regions dominant casino hub, and Trump was still its biggest operator, with three hotel-casinos. Trump had weathered one bankruptcy that left him with a reduced stake and a company laboring under huge debts. Indian casinos in Connecticut had already captured some of Atlantic Citys business, and Trump said he thought he would be devastated by more competition. View more of the ads Trump approved Stone, who has a tattoo of former President Nixon on his back and revels in a reputation as a political henchman, came up with the idea to run the anti-Mohawk campaign under the guise of the institute, as well as the idea to set it up as a nonprofit corporation under section 501(c)(4) of the U.S. tax code, which allows such groups to keep their donors secret. In recent elections, similar so-called dark-money nonprofits have poured hundreds of millions of dollars in undisclosed contributions into campaign advertising. Trump has bragged about spurning similar outside spending for his presidential campaign, though he has recently gotten backing from super PACs. Trump signed off on just about everything, Stone told investigators. There were no expenditures that werent approved by Mr. Trump himself, said Stone, who started working for Trump in the 1980s. He saw the ads, television ads, which he would see on a video machine, radio ads, you play on a tape recorder, or newspaper ads, which he would see the artwork for. The ads hit hard, highlighting news about crimes involving Mohawks to question whether the tribe was fit to run a casino. The Mohawk territory, straddling the U.S. and Canada, has been a hot spot for cigarette and liquor smuggling; some tribal members have been accused of drug trafficking and dealing with mob figures. Now the Mohawks want state approval of a $500 million casino opening the door for organized crime, said one ad. Another attacked gambling as evil: If you think this stinks, its because casino gambling stinks. It brings increased crime, bankruptcy, broken homes, divorce, and in the case of Indian gambling, violence. Leaders of the tribe said the campaign unfairly tarred all Mohawks as crooks. This is all racist propaganda promoted by special interest and racist groups hiding behind organizations such as the Institute for Law and Society, a tribal spokeswoman told the Albany Times-Union in 2000. The Mohawks were incensed, said Bradley Waterman, a Washington lawyer who represented the tribe. Trump was a bully at that time, just as he is now, said Tony Cellini, who then was a local government official working to bring in a casino. Its the same as he is in his campaign, running for president. Trump and Stone even tried to use presidential politics as leverage, running ads in New Hampshire, Texas and South Carolina warning then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush -- the GOP nominee in 2000 -- to steer clear of New York Gov. George Pataki as a running mate because of his support for Indian gambling. The tribe suspected the attacks were really coming from Atlantic City, but Thomas Hunter, an old acquaintance Stone found to serve as the public face of the institute, told the Times-Union that his group was made up of constitutional purists and denied that he was taking money from Trump or other gambling interests. That fiction unraveled quickly after the state lobbying commission began investigating. Is that a true statement? That you have 12,000 donors? one investigator asked Hunter, whom Stone knew from Ronald Reagans 1980 campaign for president. Not to my knowledge, Hunter said. He said he knew of only two checks that came into the institutes office, for about $20 each. Hunter, paid $5,000 a month, testified that he had nothing to do with a fact sheet about the institute that was published under his name -- Stone had faxed it to him -- or with writing or placing the ads. He also said he had no idea where the money was coming from, saying he trusted Stone. I got paid to handle some PR things, Hunter, who died in 2009, told the commission. Answer the telephone and talk to reporters. In written answers to the commissions questions, Trump confirmed that he approved more than $1.5 million in spending for an anti-Mohawk lawsuit, investigation and public opinion campaign. I understood Roger Stones idea that the Institute was a more credible voice than a casino companys, Trump wrote. Trump agreed to a settlement to end the commissions inquiry over whether the campaign violated New Yorks laws requiring lobbying disclosure. Donald is always deeply suspicious of big lawyer fees, Stone said in the interview. In addition to the fines, Trump agreed to pay more than $30,000 to run a statement in Albany-area news outlets: Donald Trump, Roger Stone and Thomas Hunter apologize if anyone was misled concerning the production and funding of the lobbying effort. They didnt say they were sorry for the ads content. Stone said hes no longer being paid by Trump, but he is still a supporter and ally, and Stones former lobbying partner, Paul Manafort, is now running Trumps presidential campaign. In the end, the Mohawk deal fell apart amid internal disputes. David Grandeau, the lawyer who headed the state investigation, believes that Trump wasted money trying to crush the Mohawks. For all the hoopla Trump went through, he said, it didnt matter. joseph.tanfani@latimes.com Twitter: @jtanfani ALSO: Donald Trump vows in Rust Belt speech to punish China and end major trade deals House Democrats mistakenly release transcript confirming big payout to Clinton friend Sidney Blumenthal How Donald Trumps speech attacking Hillary Clinton compares with the facts Biden: Sanders is going to endorse Clinton Vice President Joe Biden is certain that Bernie Sanders will endorse Hillary Clinton. Oh Ive talked to Bernie. Bernies going to endorse her. This is going to work out, Biden told NPRs Rachel Martin in an interview that will air Sunday on Weekend Edition. Asked about Bidens statement Thursday evening, Sanders said he last spoke with the vice president three weeks ago and repeatedly demurred when asked about a potential endorsement. Look, on that issue, we are trying to work with Secretary Clintons campaign, he said during an interview on MSNBC, pointing to his goal to make the Democrats party platform more liberal on issues such as tuition-free public college and universal healthcare. He emphasized that his goal was to do everything in his power to defeat presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump, who he called a pathological liar who thinks climate change is a hoax, and has denigrated Latinos, women, African-Americans and Muslims. Pressed by host Chris Hayes about whether that included an endorsement and appearances with Clinton at rallies, Sanders again declined to answer directly. It is no great secret we are trying to do everything we can right now to make the Democratic platform the most progressive platform in the history of the Democratic party, he said, adding that he wanted to be able to go back to the millions of supporters who voted for him and detail the concessions he obtained. I hope we can reach that goal. We are not there at this moment. Last week on MSNBC, Sanders answered yes to whether he will vote for Clinton in November. Hes since said that Clinton will have to adopt more of his positions to win over his voters. In an email Thursday afternoon, his campaign called on supporters to help bring Sanders delegates to Julys Democratic convention in Philadelphia to vote for a progressive platform. Read More Spurred by outrage over recent mass shootings, California lawmakers on Thursday sent Gov. Jerry Brown an unprecedented package of gun control bills, including a ban on the sale of semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines, background checks for those buying ammunition and new restrictions on homemade firearms. In the wake of massacres in San Bernardino and Orlando, Fla., the flurry of legislative action once again puts California in the lead among states regulating firearms, and in stark contrast to inaction in the gridlocked Congress, officials said. I dont know how much more blood needs to be spilled in our schools, in our community centers, in public spaces, until the members of Congress act and we can do this nationwide, Senate President Pro Tem Kevin De Leon (D-Los Angeles) told reporters after the vote. Until that happens, we will not stop moving forward forcefully to make sure that we protect our families, to protect our children, protect our communities. This is a historic day. Advertisement But controversy over the gun control measures reached beyond Republicans who voted against them as an erosion of the 2nd Amendment. One measure that would allow Californians to petition courts to take guns away from co-workers also drew strong objections from the American Civil Liberties Union. The vote also came against the backdrop of a political tussle between De Leon and Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has qualified a competing gun control ballot measure with many of the same provisions as those offered in the Legislature. The measures were expedited to the governors desk Thursday in hopes that he might act on them immediately. Brown will probably sign some of the bills before he leaves Friday for a vacation in Europe. He has vetoed gun control measures in the past that he felt went too far. Ive got to look at them, is all the governor would say Thursday. The flood of bills was introduced in response to the December terror attack in San Bernardino that left 14 people dead at a holiday party, but momentum for action swelled after the June 12 mass shooting at an Orlando nightclub that killed 49 people. The killer sprayed that nightclub with bullets, De Leon told his colleagues during the floor debate. How could someone filled with so much hate have such easy access to ammunition? Among the most notable bills the Senate sent the governor was a measure from De Leon that would require ammunition buyers to show an ID and have their name checked against a list of felons and others prohibited from having firearms. Most Republicans voted against that bill. Republican Sen. Jim Nielsen of Gerber said the measures would hinder citizens who obey the law and would be ignored by criminals. Gun violence is not committed by law-abiding citizens, it is committed by criminals, Nielsen said during the floor debate. The frenzy of legislative votes Thursday took place after political squabbling between De Leon and Newsom, whose gun control initiative on the November ballot could boost his candidacy for governor in 2018. De Leon, who also has aspirations for higher office, was rebuked by Newsom after he asked the lieutenant governor to drop the initiative and let the Legislature change the law. The two recently exchanged harshly worded letters in which the Senate leader said the initiative would confuse voters and allow lawmakers to avoid voting on controversial measures. On Thursday, Newsom issued a statement indicating he was pleased by the Legislatures action, calling it a meaningful step in the right direction. He said he will continue pressing forward with his initiative. Now, with the Safety for All initiative, voters will finally have a chance to take matters into their own hands and keep the momentum going with bold reforms that build and expand well beyond todays achievements, he said. California already has some of the toughest gun control laws in the nation, including a ban on assault rifles, but lawmakers said the new bills were meant to plug loopholes exploited by gun manufacturers and owners. Two of the bills approved by the Legislature ban the sale of semiautomatic rifles with detachable ammunition magazines, including those with bullet buttons that when pressed with a sharp object allow the quick removal and replacement of magazines. Those who already own such guns would have to register them with the state as assault weapons. These types of firearms have no legitimate use for sport hunters or competitive shooters, Assemblyman Reginald Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles) said. Members, too many of our sons and daughters, too many of our brothers and sisters, too many of our mothers and fathers have fallen victim to gun violence in California. We cannot afford to delay action any longer. The time to act is now. ut opposing members argued that the policy was unconstitutional and would not stop another shooter like the one in Orlando. You want to blame something you can control, but you cant control murder, Assemblywoman Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) said. You cant control insanity. Both houses also approved legislation that would ban the possession of ammunition magazines holding more than 10 rounds, building on a current prohibition on their sale. Large-capacity magazines have been found at the scene of several mass shootings, including the one in San Bernardino. The bills were opposed by the National Rifle Assn., which accused legislators of rushing through anti-gun, agenda-driven lawsto misuse the legislative process and stymie public participation. Its been a shameful process to watch, said Amy Hunter, an NRA spokeswoman. The bills hold a common theme: restrictions on the law-abiding citizens of California, while doing nothing to reduce criminal behavior. That opposition extended to a bill that would allow co-workers, employers, mental health professionals and employees of high schools and colleges to petition the courts for a gun violence restraining order against a person thought to be a danger to themselves or others. Such restraining orders can be obtained by family members and law enforcement. Thirty have been issued so far this year in the state, officials said. They allow a court to order a persons firearms confiscated for up to a year. The subject of the order can appeal the action. By temporarily taking guns from people deemed dangerous by a court, this bill provides a rational approach to stop gun violence and save lives, said Assemblyman Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), author of the bill, who noted that mass shootings most frequently occur at schools and the workplace. But the bill drew objections from the American Civil Liberties Union, which said in a letter to lawmakers that the bill creates significant potential for civil rights violations. Co-workers with an irrational fear may target a fellow employee without cause, and the bill lacks sufficient due process protections, the ACLU warned. An ex-parte order means the person subjected to the restraining order is not informed of the court proceeding and therefore has no opportunity to appear to contest the allegations, the group said in a statement. Two other bills sent to the governor address the proliferation of homemade guns, or ghost guns, so named because they are built and used without a serial number or registration that would allow them to be traced. The measures would require owners to register those guns with the state and get a serial number for them. Acting against straw purchases of guns, lawmakers also approved measures that require gun owners to report guns lost or stolen within five days, ban those who falsely report guns stolen from purchasing a firearm for 10 years and prohibit Californians from buying more than one long gun a month, the current rule for handguns. Another bill would make any theft of a gun a felony. A recent ballot measure approved by voters makes gun thefts a misdemeanor if the value is below $950. A related measure prohibits the lending of guns for up to 30 days without background checks, limiting loans between between family members. If the gun bills and the initiative are approved, the ballot measures provisions would supersede the legislative differences where the two overlap. However, De Leons bill requiring ID checks for ammunition purchasers was recently amended so it would become law instead of a similar provision in the ballot initiative. Dan Newman, a political consultant for the Newsom initiative, said the change jeopardizes attempts to toughen the law. It raises a slew of legal questions which risk giving the NRA the chance to thwart progress by tying it up in the courts, Newman said. Dan Reeves, De Leons chief of staff, said the legislation presents a better overall proposal. The amendment is designed to ensure a smoother implementation of background checks for ammunition purchases that is less burdensome to gun owners and will cost taxpayers half as much, Reeves said. Lawmakers said Thursday that they hoped the rest of the nation would see their action as a model for responsible gun safety. I think this is a strong statement that we are sending to the rest of the nation, that we are not going to stand by idly any further, Jackson said. Sen. Loni Hancock (D-Berkeley) added, We have said enough is enough, and we have shown that it is possible. De Leon was hopeful that the governor would move quickly. It my hope that he will do the right thing and hell sign a good number of those measures. patrick.mcgreevy@latimes.com, jazmine.ulloa@latimes.com Twitter: @mcgreevy99, @jazmineulloa ALSO Tempers flare as lawmakers move forward with a dozen gun-control bills in wake of Orlando shooting Two top California Democrats feud over an issue they agree on: gun control Updates from Sacramento In a political year thats already turned conventional wisdom on its ear, few should be surprised that President Obama isnt following the modern tradition of largely sitting out the race to replace him. And odds are, hes just getting warmed up. Good morning from the the state capital. Im Sacramento Bureau Chief John Myers, and the presidents opinion of Donald Trump was front and center in a news conference with the leaders of Canada and Mexico on Wednesday. Advertisement In perhaps the most pointed comment, Obama rejected the Trump message as populist. Thats nativism. Or xenophobia. Or worse, he said. Christi Parsons has the full report, including some particularly sharp jabs from Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. THE AD WAR COMETH Meantime, both Trump and Hillary Clinton received a boost in the campaigns battle of the airwaves. The National Rifle Assn. launched an ad campaign assailing Clintons handling of the Benghazi attacks, while Clinton backers announced a $13-million TV effort focused on the battleground states of Florida and Ohio. A reminder that you can keep up with all of the latest presidential potshots and more on our Trail Guide news feed. CALIFORNIA KEEPS THE PINK TAX IN PLACE Any parent has seen it: Items in a store, from toys to clothes, that seem the same except for the fact that some are blue for boys and pink for girls yet the prices are different. That system looks like its not going anywhere for now. As Jazmine Ulloa reports, state Sen. Ben Hueso (D-San Diego) withdrew his bill this week banning businesses from charging customers different prices for similar goods on the basis of gender. The legislation would have allowed customers to challenge prices on substantially similar products. But it faced strong opposition from the retail and manufacturing industry and did not make it out of the Assembly Judiciary Committee. This is the final week for bills in Sacramento clear their last policy committees. Lawmakers are about to leave town for a month-long recess in July and then return for the final month of the 2016 session in August. A TOUGH REPORT CARD FOR CALIFORNIAS UTILITY REGULATORS Earlier this week, we reported on a new effort to overhaul the operations and portfolio of the California Public Utilities Commission. On Wednesday, the agencys critics received a little more fuel for their fire. An independent audit found that regulators signed contracts that they were not permitted to execute, failed to maintain required paperwork and paid vendors even when work was not performed to specifications. Perhaps just as troubling for some, it was the first audit of the CPUC in 20 years. SIT-IN SPIRIT COMES TO THE GOLDEN STATE Across the state Wednesday, Californias congressional Democrats held events to keep the momentum going after their sit-in on the House floor last week demanding votes on two gun control measures. While House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi rallied Bay Area members at a hospital in San Francisco, Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Los Angeles) joined several of his colleagues at a roundtable discussion and press conference at Los Angeles City Hall. The events highlighted the members effort to force a vote on legislation that would bar those on the FBIs terror watch lists from buying guns legally and mandate comprehensive background checks on all gun purchases. Americas cities are becoming well known for sorrowful reasons. San Bernardino, Orlando, Charleston, Newtown, Columbine we must do something, anything that can save even one life, Becerra said. Congress owes us a vote, and if you dont give us a vote, Congress, well remember it in November. TODAYS ESSENTIALS Where do politics and fishery management meet head to head? The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, writes George Skelton. Its there, he says, that agricultural interests are trying to off big (and popular) game fish. Tom Steyer, the Democratic billionaire whos everywhere these days, said Wednesday that he wont decide whether to run for governor until after November. Steyer was in Sacramento for a rally with the United Farm Workers and later for a speech to local Democrats, thus looking a lot like someone running for office. Democrats from both Los Angeles and San Francisco want the Legislature to ramp up pressure on Gov. Jerry Brown to declare a homelessness state of emergency, and introduced a legislative resolution on Wednesday calling on him to take action. House Republicans are asking the Obama administration to block the California Legislatures attempt to allow people in the country illegally to purchase health insurance through the states insurance exchange. The white supremacist group at the center of a bloody melee last weekend at the state Capitol is reportedly making plans to travel to Cleveland for the Republican National Convention next month. HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! A quick programming note that the newsletter will take a brief holiday break on Friday and Monday, with Christina Bellantoni kicking off an abbreviated week of Essential Politics on Tuesday, July 5. LOGISTICS Miss yesterdays newsletter? Here you go. Did someone forward you this? Sign up here to get Essential Politics in your inbox daily. And keep an eye on our politics page throughout the day for the latest and greatest. And are you following us on Twitter at @latimespolitics and @LATpoliticsCA? Please send thoughts, concerns and news tips to politics@latimes.com. For the first time in 30 years, the gaping hole in the ozone layer above Antarctica is showing signs of healing. Every year since it was discovered in 1985, scientists have watched the hole grow bigger from one Antarctic spring to the next, eventually covering 10.9 million square miles in 2015. Now researchers are noting an encouraging trend. Though the hole still exists and reached a record size last year, it is forming at a slower rate, according to a report published Thursday in the journal Science. Advertisement Thanks to human actions to curb the use of ozone-destroying chloroflourocarbons, or CFCs, the hole has started growing later in the spring, the studys authors said, and they can foresee a time, around the middle of the century, when its gone. We are starting to see signs of improvement over Antarctica, said Paul Newman, an atmospheric scientist at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center who monitors the hole but was not involved in the study. Earth wears the ozone layer like a thick blanket. The invisible gas blocks the majority of the suns harmful ultraviolet radiation. Without that shield, life as we know it would not be possible. The ozone layer sits in the stratosphere, a region of the atmosphere that begins about 10 miles above the ground higher than planes can fly and extends an additional 20 miles above that. The hole in the ozone layer comes and goes over the course of each year. The conditions for creating it begin in late August, and it reaches its maximum size in October. Scientists tracking the state of the hole have typically focused on its size at that latter point. The new study takes a closer look at what happens earlier in the spring, when the hole begins to develop. The stratosphere above Antarctica is a particularly dangerous place for ozone to be when winter gives way to spring, said study leader Susan Solomon, an atmospheric chemist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Antarctica is really the coldest place on Earth, Solomon said. The extremely cold temperatures cause thin, wispy clouds to form high in the stratosphere, creating a perfect place for the byproducts of CFCs hydrochloric acid and chlorine nitrate to touch down. When they react on the surface of these clouds, they release chlorine gas. Then the sun, which has just returned to the South Pole, provides energy that splits the gas into two single chlorine atoms. These atoms steal oxygen from the ozone and break it down. Spring is the Goldilocks time, Solomon said. Theres enough sunlight to drive the chemistry, and you have cold enough temperatures for the clouds to keep CFC byproducts in the mix. The longer the process continues, the more ozone is destroyed. By October, the ozone layer has been punched out of existence, Newman said. Even before the hole was discovered in the 1980s, scientists had realized that man-made CFCs could be damaging to the atmosphere. CFCs are nontoxic and nonexplosive chemicals that work very well as refrigerants, propellants and solvents. As a result, they were widely used in air conditioning systems, cans of hair spray and a variety of other consumer and industrial products. That changed with the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987. The international treaty called on countries to phase out the use of most CFCs by 1996. The ban went into effect at the start of 1989, but scientists didnt see any immediate reduction in the concentration of CFCs in the stratosphere. The stability of these chemicals once touted as one of their biggest benefits meant they could remain in the atmosphere for 50 to 100 years. Ozone is measured by sensors attached to large balloons that are released into the air. They rise at a speed of roughly 11 mph, taking measurements as they go and transmitting data back to a ground station. They can travel about 22 miles up before bursting and drifting back to earth. Satellites provide additional information on ozone-layer thickness by recording the UV light that is reflected off of it. Solomon and her colleagues examined data going back to 1970 to see whether ozone levels had improved in the early part of the hole-forming season. Although they didnt see that much difference from one October to the next, they could see that between 2000 and 2014, ozone levels during September had improved. The progress was in line with predictions made by computer models designed to simulate the impact of CFC reductions. Then came 2015. The size of the ozone hole in October broke a record, even though levels of CFC byproducts in the atmosphere were still falling. Could it be that the volcanoes are holding back the ozone from recovering? Solomon said. When the researchers considered the effects of the sulfur particles sent into the atmosphere by volcanoes particularly Calbuco in southern Chile, which erupted in April 2015 they could see that the answer was yes. In fact, the Calbuco eruption increased the size of the ozone hole in September by 2.7 million square miles. Without the volcano, the researchers said the hole would have continued to heal. We took action, and here we are 30 years later, Solomon said, seeing that that action has produced the positive result that we hoped for. megan.daley@latimes.com Follow @mdaley_ on Twitter for more science news and like Los Angeles Times Science & Health on Facebook Lights on Newport Beach city streets might soon have a brighter, whiter hue. The City Council on Tuesday will consider a staff recommendation to retrofit 3,224 of the citys 5,000 streetlights to light emitting diode (LED) fixtures, which are said to be more energy-efficient and last longer than the existing high-pressure sodium bulbs. In 2013, the city partnered with The Energy Network, a group that evaluates where public agencies can implement projects for energy efficiency. The Energy Network determined that Newport Beach could save money on energy bills and maintenance costs by changing the lights on streets the group identified, according to a city staff report. The conversion to LED bulbs, which last about 15 years, would save the city more than $155,000 annually on energy and maintenance, the staff report states. The current bulbs emit light with a yellow hue and usually burn out in three to five years, which requires the city to spend about $55,000 a year on maintenance, according to George Murdoch, the citys general manager for utilities. The city already has LED fixtures on Irvine Avenue and Bayside Drive. LED lights in more of the city also will mean a reduction in greenhouse emissions equal to removing 2,870 vehicles from the road, according to data presented in the staff report. This is really a great project, Murdoch said. There are so many advantages to LED ... its a win-win. The conversion initially will require the city to spend about $1.2 million from the general fund, but once the project is complete, Southern California Edison will reimburse nearly half the cost. The rest estimated at nearly $617,000 will be funded through an Edison program that enables public agencies to finance energy-efficient projects with no interest and to pay back the loan as part of their utility bills. Murdoch said it will take the city about four years to pay back the loan. The annual savings from the LED bulbs will cover that cost, Murdoch said. We think its a no-brainer in terms of savings and the efficiency of the lights, City Manager Dave Kiff said. If the council approves the switch-out Tuesday, the project could begin in about four months and last up to six months. Before making their decision, council members will receive information from staff about the proposal during a study session beginning at 3:30 p.m. The councils regular meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 100 Civic Center Drive. Police were tight-lipped Wednesday about how a kidnapping suspect who escaped from a standoff with police in Newport Beach on Monday made his way to Cerritos before he was found and arrested Tuesday night. Thomas Ueno, 35, was taken into custody without incident about 7 p.m. Tuesday while walking at the intersection of Marquardt Avenue and Destino Street in Cerritos, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, which made the arrest. Detectives from the Huntington Park Police Department eventually took custody of him. Huntington Park police said detectives had learned of Uenos possible whereabouts and that surveillance was conducted in the area with the aid of the Sheriffs Department. But police Lt. Al Martinez, citing a continuing investigation, did not elaborate on how or when they learned that or how Ueno got to Cerritos from Newport Beach. Ueno was arrested on suspicion of kidnapping, felony evading, restraining-order violation, child endangerment and domestic violence, Martinez said. He was being held Wednesday at the Los Angeles County Jails Inmate Reception Center with bail set at $860,000, according to jail records. The case will be forwarded to the Los Angeles County district attorneys office for consideration, Huntington Park police said. Police say Ueno had fled from authorities Monday night after an hours-long standoff on Dover Drive in Newport Beach, following a freeway pursuit that started in Buena Park. A woman and two young children, who police said were Uenos girlfriend and their 1- and 6-year-old sons, were with him in a Hummer SUV throughout the incident, police said. The case was initially reported to Huntington Park police as a restraining-order violation and a possible kidnapping of the woman and the two children. Buena Park police got a request from officers from Huntington Park, about 16 miles northwest in Los Angeles County, to check for the dark-colored Hummer, said Buena Park police Sgt. Chris Nunez. An officer saw the Hummer on Beach Boulevard in Buena Park at about 4:30 p.m. and pursued it, Nunez said. The Hummer got onto the southbound 5 Freeway, then the southbound 55 Freeway and southbound 405, according to the California Highway Patrol, which became the lead agency on the chase. The driver did not travel at extreme speed, according to CHP Officer Florentino Olivera. He was driving about 70 mph, so he wasnt affecting traffic either way, Olivera said. He wasnt driving on the highway doing anything crazy. The driver left the 405 Freeway at Jamboree Road and continued south toward Irvine and Costa Mesa as CHP cruisers followed. About 6 p.m., the driver approached the Newport Beach area, where fog from a heavy marine layer obscured the view of police helicopter crews. The driver stopped at East Coast Highway and Jamboree Road in Newport Beach, then continued driving, later stopping near Newport Harbor High School when the SUVs battery died, according to the CHP. He stayed there for several hours. Dover Drive between West Coast Highway and East 16th Street was shut down as officers tried to negotiate the mans surrender. During the standoff, the driver occasionally stepped out of the Hummer, clutching a young child as he faced law enforcement. Another child was seen craning his head out of the vehicles sunroof. At about 10 p.m., the man ran from the SUV and up a hillside near Castaways Park. The woman and children, whose identities were not released, were unharmed, authorities said. Olivera said CHP officers shot three or four bean bags at the driver as he fled. When Ueno was arrested, he had minor injuries that police believe resulted from running through bushes as he was escaping, Martinez said. The CHP said several factors contributed to the driver evading police in Newport, including the fog and darkness. Also, officers didnt want to unleash a police dog with the woman and children present, the CHP said. As officers backtracked on the path where the driver fled, they found a replica handgun they believe he had in the vehicle with him, Martinez said. Daily Pilot staff writer Hannah Fry and Los Angeles Times staff writer Matt Hamilton contributed to this report. Administrators in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District warned parents this week about a smartphone app that enables students to anonymously post content that officials fear could lead to cyberbullying and violence. The application, called Ogle, is operated by Nuistars Inc. of Palo Alto. It allows students to place comments, pictures and videos on feeds for specific high school and college campuses. Users can view the content posted on campus feeds and add their comments. The app lists more than 65 Orange County schools, including Corona del Mar, Costa Mesa, Estancia, Newport Harbor, Back Bay and Early College high schools in the Newport-Mesa district. Campuses in Northern California, Texas and Virginia also appear. Newport Harbors feed has more than 300 posts. Costa Mesa Highs has close to 500. Some posts for those schools ask users to share their comments about teachers named in Ogle. Some contain discussions of instructors users think are attractive and others they disdain. Many posts ask users what they think of particular students, leading to responses such as Dresses like she found her clothes in the garbage. Others call certain students gay or a pejorative term for homosexual. One asked users to post nude photos they might have of a specific student. Students are posting pictures of themselves and even pictures theyve come across of other people, including minors, said David Haglund, deputy superintendent of educational services for the Santa Ana Unified School District, where officials became aware of the app last week. Theyre saying nasty things about each other and teachers. Bullying is bullying, whether its sharing a note in class or going on social media. The Newport-Mesa district asked its principals this week to send emails to parents and guardians to make them aware of the app and encourage them to delete it from their childrens mobile devices and monitor the students online presence. The Costa Mesa and Newport Beach police departments are monitoring the app, according to school and district officials. In an anonymous emailed statement to the Daily Pilot on Thursday, the Ogle team said: We are aware of the concern, and cyberbullying is absolutely NOT our intention for the app. Our goal for this app is to create a free and safe community space for students, for a better communication. We are currently working around the clock to improve the app. As a matter of fact, we are also in contact with local police departments, anti-bullying organizations and local high schools to try to help the students. Ogles description in mobile app stores states that Ogle is rated 17 and older for frequent/intense sexual content or nudity and infrequent/mild alcohol, tobacco or drug use or references. When downloading the app, users are not asked to verify their age. With hard hats firmly affixed and shovels in hand, Newport Beach city officials and business leaders Wednesday ceremoniously broke ground on the Lido House Hotel, which will take the place of the former City Hall at the entrance to the Balboa Peninsula. Lido House, which will be operated by Marriott, will be a four-story boutique hotel with 130 guestrooms, meeting and retail space, a spa, restaurants, a pool and recreation area and a rooftop bar. The project, approved by the City Council and the California Coastal Commission, has been billed by city officials and nearby residents as a key element in a years-long effort to revitalize the peninsula. Bob Olson of R.D. Olson Development, second from right, joins Newport Beach Mayor Diane Dixon and other members of the City Council during the groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday for the Lido House Hotel. (Kevin Chang / Daily Pilot) Mayor Diane Dixon speaks Wednesday during the ceremonial groundbreaking for the 130-room Lido House Hotel on the site of the former Newport Beach City Hall. (Kevin Chang / Daily Pilot) The hotels owner, R.D. Olson Development, has an 85-year lease with the city for the property at 3300 Newport Blvd. While the hotel is moving forward, R.D. Olson will be heading back to the council and the Coastal Commission this year seeking approvals to expand parts of the project. The city Planning Commission has already agreed to allow the developer to expand Lido House Hotels lobby, management office, spa, and restaurant and retail area. The plan would increase the projects footprint by 4,745 square feet, to 103,470 square feet. R.D. Olson also received the Planning Commissions permission to enlarge two guestrooms on the second floor into suites and to decrease the size of the ballroom space by 925 square feet. The developer has said it does not expect the expansion effort to delay the hotels planned opening in 2017. Last weeks statewide release of the results of the new standardized assessments linked to Common Core educational standards amounted to a massive Rorschach test for the good citizens of California. The image each of us sees will likely be based on what we already believe to be true about Common Core. Supporters see reason for, if not optimism precisely, satisfaction that we now have a clearer picture of where students currently stand in the ambitious quest to improve educational outcomes. They have waged a long campaign to keep initial expectations in check, warning that in the first year of this vastly new approach the learning curve has been steep, the bar intentionally set high. Theyve reminded us that we cant compare the scores to those based on the old testing system, and that the first results from the new, more-rigorous test are meant to provide educators with a baseline from which to adjust future instruction. Opponents, who seem to have quieted a bit recently, could see the test scores as a reason to speak up again. They might view the results showing just 44% of California students at grade level or better in English and 34% in math as evidence that Common Core is a failed experiment, or that the tests are hopelessly flawed and create an inaccurate picture. Either way, theres new ammunition for the movement to kill the standards. Which is really a shame. On one side weve been witness to near-hysterical over-reaction, on the other weve had far too much tone-deaf defensiveness. What is really needed now more than ever is a seeking of common ground over the Common Core, a combined effort by critics and supporters alike to weed out whats not working from what is, and to make adjustments based on supportable evidence. That means no more alarmist conspiracy theories, and no more pat assurances and obfuscations over the problems that have surfaced amid an often-rocky implementation. And thats not the only shame. Amid this heated controversy, what has largely been missing are the voices of the teachers who have been tasked with figuring out the new standards and how to implement them in the classroom. New Common Core-aligned curriculum has been dumped on them, oftentimes without adequate vetting, research, and training, with little time to learn the new materials themselves. Theyre the ones on the ground observing students day in and day out. Assessments only tell us so much. We also need to ask the teachers what is worth keeping and what should be done differently going forward. The idea of Common Core only began about six years ago, and in that time the standards were written, 42 states adopted them, new curriculum was produced some of it good, some of it not so much and assessments were overhauled. A sense of urgency is understandable, considering our need to improve educational competitiveness, but haste has arguably been the enemy of clear and achievable means of reaching those goals. Californias implementation of Common Core hasnt even been the most contentious. In New York a huge backlash has arisen in large part because the schools there began testing students on the new standards before teachers had any chance to familiarize themselves with new materials. In many states aggrieved parents have mobilized to dump the Common Core and have urged others to have their students opt out of the new standardized tests. The California tests, developed by the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium, were administered entirely on computers and were very different from past fill-in-the-bubble assessments. They were much tougher, required more analysis and featured questions that adapted as students progressed, based on answers to previous questions. Of course, aside from the standards and tests, per se, other complaints have arisen. One frequently cited fear is that it could enable the creation of a massive, nationwide database that will contain not just test scores but personal information, such as students health histories. Indeed, at one Newport-Mesa Unified school board meeting earlier this year, one parent voiced objections to the dangers of Common Core not protecting students privacy. Even some Common Core supporters have expressed reservations about certain aspects of the standards, such as whether such a rigorous approach is appropriate for the youngest schoolchildren. In Newport-Mesa, problems with Common Core implementation surfaced during the past school year. The Daily Pilot previously reported that SWUN math, the core-aligned curriculum that the district bought from a Cypress-based company for $1.89 million, was riddled with errors. Newport-Mesa still fared better than the state average, with 54% meeting the target in English and 47% in math. Not surprisingly, results varied widely from school to school. Anderson Elementary had the highest overall scores, with 87% meeting or exceeding the threshold in English and 84% in math, while Rea Elementarys were the lowest at 11% in both categories. Parents will receive their students individual reports by mid-October. Despite the stumbles, it would be good if those predisposed to dislike Common Core didnt immediately jump to the worst-possible interpretation and instead conducted a more careful, nuanced view of the results. But it would also be helpful if school officials more readily acknowledged problems and mistakes, and demonstrated a greater willingness to take concerns and input from teachers and the community to heart. PATRICE APODACA is a former Newport-Mesa public school parent and former Los Angeles Times staff writer. She lives in Newport Beach. Glendale Community Colleges board of trustees recently passed a resolution in support of a ballot initiative that would extend the number of years that income-tax revenue from wealthy Californians would flow to community colleges and K-12 schools. David Viar, the colleges superintendent/president, lauded the initiative, known as the Childrens Education and Healthcare Protection Act of 2016, which would extend Proposition 30s temporary income-tax increase on wealthy residents for 12 more years. NEWSLETTER: Stay up to date with whats going on in the 818 >> As a result, community colleges and K-12 schools would have access to anywhere from an estimated $8 billion to $11 billion more per year, according to a college report. The revenue would be collected between 2019 and 2030 from Californias wealthiest individual taxpayers who earn more than $250,000 per year or from couples who bring in more than $500,000 annually. I believe its important to have community college leaders help educate the public about the potential effects of a reduction in 2019 of state revenue available to the community college [system] and to Glendale Community College, Viar said during a trustee meeting earlier this month. The board of trustees unanimously approved the resolution, and fellow college officials are still working to collect some of the 585,407 signatures needed to place the initiative on the November 2016 ballot. Every signature counts, said Zohara Kaye, president of the colleges faculty guild. Follow us on Twitter >> During the current fiscal year, she added, Glendale Community College received about $13 million from Proposition 30. Voters approved the measure in November 2012 to the relief of college officials who say that without the sales and income-tax-revenue boost, their financial recovery after the recession would have been even more dire. After Proposition 30 passed, Glendale Community College was able to offer more classes and hire additional full-time faculty, Viar said. Months prior to its passage in February 2012, the college had made significant budget cuts and had implemented a purchasing freeze where only the most critical purchases were authorized. Over the course of about 18 months in 2011 and 2012, the college had reduced the number of summer classes it offered, eliminated its winter session and reduced pay for its management, faculty and classified employees. Faculty members had also been offered early-retirement incentives. Now, with the sales tax revenue from Proposition 30 expected to sunset in 2016, college officials point to a growing expectation that if the income tax portion of Proposition 30 is not extended, the state budget will come up $6 billion short in the first year, according to the college report. We all know, we all remember, before passing Proposition 30, where we were, said Saodat Aziskhanova, president of the classified employees union, as she rallied trustees to support the resolution. The colleges student body president, Christine Ovasapyan, said she and fellow student leaders will encourage other students to register to vote because only registered voters can provide supporting signatures. This affects us the students the most. Its all of our jobs to take initiative to make this happen, she said. If the item is placed on the ballot and passes, and only after the state meets all education funding requirements, remaining income-tax revenue would provide up to $2 billion in Medi-Cal funding for low-income children and their families, according to the colleges faculty guild. -- Kelly Corrigan, kelly.corrigan@latimes.com Twitter: @kellymcorrigan -- ALSO: Jewish group says La Crescenta park sign isnt welcome, citing Nazi rallies held there in 1930s Glendale City Council gives green light to a dozen park upgrades Volunteers step up to clear Brand Park trail Carl Moseley was 12 years old when the World War II started in 1941. He had a steady job mowing lawns in those days. I made a lot of money when I was a kid, the Hoover High Class of 48 grad told me recently. I did a lot of neighbors yards. One day, Moseley took some of his money, went downtown, and bought a bond, a war bond, to help build a war ship. The bonds, for the USS Glendale, were sold from a trailer parked in front of Webbs Department Store on Brand Boulevard. MORE: Read previous columns about Glendales past >> Moseley, who attended Columbus Elementary and Toll Junior High, was just one of many young people who helped fund the warship. When the USS Glendale was christened on May 28, 1943, Mayor Lawrence E. Olson thanked all the school children who donated pennies, nickels and dimes for the building of the ship, according to the May 23, 1990, edition of the Glendale News-Press. Sam Nicholson also remembers purchasing war bonds during his Woodrow Wilson Elementary school days in North Arlington, N.J., and his junior high days here at Toll. We would purchase small stamps at 10 cents each and glue them into some kind of a booklet until we had a total of $18.75, he wrote in a recent email. Students turned the books in at a bank or at the post office and received a government certificate stating that, after 10 years, they could redeem the certificate for $25. Nicholson, who graduated from Hoover in 1947, also recalled another war-related effort: gas rationing. Based upon the persons job and its importance to the war effort, drivers received monthly stamps, along with a display sticker for the cars front window. A stamps were for those needing a minimal amount of gas, B stamps for more, and C for the maximum, he wrote. As a Toll junior high student, Nicholson worked at the Texaco gas station at the corner of Pacific and Glenwood avenues. I put the gas nozzle in each tank and issued a specific amount of gas based upon their stamps. It was also my responsibility to glue the stamps into the government booklet. The station owner would receive gas on each delivery period based upon the number of stamps in the booklet, Nicholson recalled. Early in 1943, city and chamber of commerce officials petitioned the Navy to have a warship named for Glendale. With the help of student bonds, their efforts bore fruit. Confirmation came in a message to the mayor only a couple of weeks before the ships launch from Consolidated Steels Wilmington shipyard. The blue-gray frigate was the 29th ship built in the Wilmington shipyard (a Pacific Coast record) and was to be used as a convoy escort and also as an anti-submarine and anti-aircraft vessel. Shirley Schlichtman, student body president at Glendale Junior College, christened the ship with a bottle of sparkling California champagne, according to News-Press writer Ellen Perry on May 23, 1990. Gov. Earl Warren, Glendale postmaster Max L. Green, and Glendale College Director Elmer T. Worthy were among those on the platform. City officials presented the ships crew with a library of 114 books ranging from dictionaries, scientific works and technical volumes to poetry and fiction. Each had a custom-designed bookplate bearing the citys emblem, the peacock. More on the USS Glendales active duty in the Pacific at a later date. -- Readers Write: Earlier this year, Barbara Martell emailed regarding the July 16, 2015, column about the history and closing of Billys Deli and Cafe. My family and I have been eating there since the early to mid 50s, with fond memories of the people and food, she wrote. I am wondering if their recipes for matzo ball soup and navy bean soup are available anywhere? Most wanting the matzo ball, my favorite. I would appreciate any help you could give me. Many thanks.' So, readers, if anyone can supply Martell with the recipe for Billys matzo ball soup and/or navy bean soup, let me know. -- John Miller of Glendale emailed, I very much enjoyed your informative and inspirational reminiscence, Churchgoers played a part in Glendale history, printed in the Glendale News-Press on April 7, 2016. It helped brighten my day. -- KATHERINE YAMADA can be reached at katherineyamada@gmail.com or by mail at Verdugo Views, c/o News-Press, 202 W. First St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. Please include your name, address and phone number. To Skip Lindeman, outgoing minister at La Canada Congregational Church, life is all about timing and heeding the call of ones soul in those rare moments when it whispers its silent intelligence. Lindemans own entrance into the ministerial fold at age 60 three decades after he graduated from Berkeleys Pacific School of Religion in 1970 and his subsequent career heading La Canada Congregational Church first as an interim minister for seven years, and then on a permanent basis, provide a perfect case in point. When I graduated from seminary I thought, this was a great education, but I didnt feel called to minister, he recalled in a recent interview. I would hope people would think that at least I made them think. Skip Lindeman, outgoing minister at La Canada Congregational Church Instead, Lindeman entered the broadcasting industry and worked for several different radio stations. In 2000, he was working as a contributing reporter for KNX 1070 Newsradio, writing and delivering occasional sermons to fill in for a friend in Ventura County on the side, when he suddenly felt called in a different direction. I felt this need to be in the church, he said. The thought came through my mind I need to preach more. It occurred to me if theres a God, this would be the way hed reach a guy like me. Lindeman became ordained under the denomination of the United Church of Christ and soon found himself assigned as interim minister for La Canadas oldest church, founded in 1897. In the years immediately following the 1999 retirement of Rev. Philip Longfellow Anderson, the congregation was in need of new leadership after two other interim ministers had failed to grow roots there. I was lucky to fall into this the people were just looking for a minister they could like, and Im kind of a people person, he said. Pat Anderson, a member of La Canada Congregational Church since 1972 and widow of Rev. Anderson, who passed in 2003, recalled the relative void left by her husbands absence after 22 years at the pulpit. I was on the search committee. We looked for two years, Anderson said, remembering a list of 40 significant attributes the congregation was seeking in a replacement. We just couldnt seem to find the right person. Minister Skip Lindeman is stepping down July 10 after 14 years at the helm of La Canada Congregational Church. (Raul Roa / Staff Photographer) Lindeman arrived in the fall of 2002, commuting more than an hour each way between La Canada Flintridge and his home in Marina Del Rey. For the next seven years Lindeman served in the interim position and stayed there, as the church maintains a distinction between the roles and responsibilities of an interim minister and a permanent or called minister. In 2009, a new leader at the Southern California Nevada Conference of the United Church of Christ in Altadena made the decision that Lindeman was ready to be installed as the called minister, and in a March ceremony it became official. Since then, the minister has made it a point to broker tough conversation with members of his congregation. Hes spoken openly, for better or worse, on the nations involvement in foreign wars and advocated for the rights of gays and lesbians to be recognized and embraced by the church. Its part of a larger mission, he says, to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. Jesus spoke truth to power. He lived the faith that he believed in, Lindeman said. I would hope people would think that at least I made them think. Join the conversation on Facebook >> Dave Proctor, a longtime member and facilities manager for the local church, said hes grateful for Lindemans long presence there. He really just seemed to be a good fit for us the right guy at the right time, Proctor said, sharing his appreciation for Lindemans willingness to pass along any and every joke he hears. I think we will all miss him a great deal. Lindemans last day with the church is July 10. He simply believes the church is ready to hear the gospel through a new heart and mind and hopes the selection committee finds a replacement who will help grow church membership. With no plans to retire anytime soon, the 74-year-old minister is waiting to hear where he will be called to next. I really like the work and would hope there would be an exactly right place for me and for my next congregation, he said. I feel like I have more sermons to give. -- Sara Cardine, sara.cardine@latimes.com Twitter: @SaraCardine La Canada Unified School District officials are working with Los Angeles Sheriffs Department deputies to track and potentially retrieve 39 iPads and one MacBook laptop stolen in a smash-and-grab burglary that occurred in a Palm Crest Elementary School computer lab in the early morning hours of July 21. Four suspects were seen in video surveillance footage walking on campus before smashing the labs window, LCUSD Chief Business and Operations Officer Mark Evans told the school board Tuesday. Window blinds had been left open by custodians, and the cabinet the devices were kept in had not been secured, Evans added. The district is seeking to replace the stolen items, whose estimated combined value is about $20,000, but must pay a $10,000 deductible. Tech Director Jamie Lewsadder reported last week about 13 devices had initially been located throughout Greater Los Angeles through a tracking process, but that sheriffs deputies couldnt retrieve them without first preparing a warrant. Evans said Tuesday the district was considering not concentrating devices in a single location, and that custodial staff and teachers were being reminded to lock cabinets and lower blinds before leaving labs. -- Sara Cardine, sara.cardine@latimes.com Twitter: @SaraCardine I used to run around looking for the perfect farmers market, but it turns out that the La Canada Farmers Market is one of the best in the area. It feels wonderful to make a salad from greens purchased that morning and harvested the day before. Nothing beats a fruit salad from the freshest fruit, or chicken braised with fresh rosemary and oregano. And its all here, in La Canada Flintridge, at the weekly market on Foothill Boulevard. The market officially opens at 9 a.m., but I often sneak over at 8:20 a.m. Blode Kuh sells hand-crafted, dairy-free, often-cashew-based yogurts and spreads. The young man from Country Fresh Herbs sells lettuces, chives, basil, zucchini and heirloom tomatoes. Due to the water shortage, we didnt plant tomatoes this year, so the herb guy, like Obi-Wan Kenobe, is our only hope. My hands down favorite is Nicholas Family Farms, certified organic and always open for business when I arrive early. They sell stone fruit, apples, almonds, berries and citrus and they take American Express. Their stall is staffed by the extended Nicholas family. Toddlers, brothers, cousins. They drive down each week from Orange Cove in the Central Valley. We have relatives in Dinuba. Its a long drive. Last week, the fish guy from Fishermans Daughter Salmon wasnt at the market, but he sent his helper. Last month he told me that he would be going fishing. He fishes for salmon in Alaska. We expect his return in August with more pole-caught, flash-frozen salmon. In the meantime, his helper will staff the market. There are other places to shop. Goldsteins near Cafe Sole, under the freeway on Verdugo, still has the best bagels. The Lotte Market has fresh eggs and gluten-free soy sauce. Gelsons sells Stumptown Coffee in case you cant get to Downtown Los Angeles. Trader Joes sells everything else. Last week, the United Food and Commercial Workers voted to authorize a strike against Ralphs, Albertsons, Vons, Pavilions and Safeway in Southern California. The union and the stores are still in negotiations. The union says a strike is the last resort. (By the way, did you know both Donald Trump and the AFL-CIO are boycotting Nabisco products made in Mexico? Trump said hes never eating an Oreo again.) Bottom line: you might see more folks at the Farmers Markets, Gelsons, Sprouts and Trader Joes. Everything we need is right here, all through this hot summer, in La Canada Flintridge. -- ANITA SUSAN BRENNER is a longtime La Canada Flintridge resident and an attorney with Law Offices of Torres and Brenner in Pasadena. Contact her at anitasusan.brenner@yahoo.com. Follow her on Instagram @realanitabrenner, Facebook and on Twitter @anitabrenner. My husband and I wanted to try something different for a getaway recently, so we stayed in a yurt on the Oregon coast just steps from the beach. We have fond memories of yurting the coast many years ago, kids and dogs in tow, enjoying outdoor activities at each stop. This time we tried a new place, Cape Lookout State Park, just west of Tillamook and were delighted with the sandy beaches, show-stopping views, a lighthouse, great hikes, good food and a clean, comfortable yurt. The tab: $96 for two nights in the yurt, $77 for breakfast both mornings, and $55 for groceries and firewood to use at the campground. The bed Advertisement One of the bonuses of yurt camping is that theres nothing to set up. We got our key from the park host (be sure to arrive before 8 p.m.), unloaded our bedding and suitcases from the car ed. We were a short walk from the bathrooms and hot showers. Deluxe yurts (also available here) have a kitchen and bathroom/shower. The yurt was easy to reserve through the state parks online site, and everything was ready, clean and organized when we arrived. Theyre available to rent year-round. The meal A friend told us that the little town of Oceanside was charming and communitys Blue Agate Cafe (1610 Pacific Ave., Oceanside; [503] 815-2596 no website) had great breakfasts. Right on both counts. The homes in Oceanside stack up the hillside, reminding us of Italys Amalfi Coast (only with pine trees). I tried the crab cakes and eggs ($13), with country potatoes and a homemade biscuit that was flaky and light despite its ridiculously huge size. The crab cakes were some of the best Ive had. My husband had the Great White breakfast burrito ($9.50), with three eggs, sausage and cheddar, also served with country potatoes. We ordered the same thing the second morning because we enjoyed them so much. The find One morning we made an impromptu stop at Jacobsen Salt Co.s harvesting facility in Tillamook.Tom Gibson, coast operations manager, explained how the company creates its renowned flake and kosher sea salts from the cold, pristine waters of Netarts Bay. Theres also a small gift shop with an extensive assortment of pure sea salts, infused sea salts and salty confections, as well as its recently acquired Bee Local single-origin honeys and honey products. The lesson learned Although Cape Lookout is only a 90-minute drive from Portland, plan to arrive before dark because the winding highway gets narrow and can be foggy, both of which can feel treacherous at night. We also learned that its on the Oregon Coast Bike Route, so even during the daytime, we kept our speed about 25 mph because there were plenty of cyclists taking advantage of the roads access to the areas spectacular surroundings. travel@latimes.com Britains vote to leave the European Union last week has left many people wondering how exactly that exit will take place. No nation has left the EU before, and in order for Britain to do so, it must first sort through decades of legislation between itself and the other 27 member states, covering everything from the products U.K. citizens use to how they travel. Although the unprecedented nature of Brexit makes the process uncertain, here are the basic steps Britain must take before its officially out. 1. Elect a new prime minister Advertisement Shortly after the announcement of the Leave outcome, Prime Minister David Cameron, who had strongly campaigned to stay in the EU, announced that he would step down. A change in leadership is not required for Britain to exit the EU, but Cameron decided it would be in Britains best interest. I do not think it would be right for me to try to be the captain that steers our country to its next destination, he said in his resignation statement. He plans to leave office by October and let Britains next prime minister start the formal process of exiting the EU. Boris Johnson, Londons former mayor and a strong advocate of leaving the EU, is among the top contenders to succeed Cameron. 2. Put together a Brexit plan Currently, there is no consensus among Brexiteers about how to approach negotiations with the EU. By staying until the fall, Cameron is allowing the Conservative Party some time to flesh out the rough-sketch plan proposed by the Leave campaign. Curbing immigration and establishing a U.K.-EU trade deal are among actions the campaign suggested. 3. Notify the European Council. The EU exit process is outlined in Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union and begins with the departing country formally notifying leaders from each of the EU member countries through the European Council. It is unclear when Britain will do this, but it will not happen until after Cameron resigns in October. 4. Negotiate the terms of separation Once the European Council is notified, Britain has two years to negotiate the terms of its exit. During this period, Britain will still be treated as a member of the EU and subject to all its rules and responsibilities. Negotiations will determine whether the U.K. will still have access to the EU single market, and what to do with the 3 million EU citizens living in the U.K. and the 1.2 million British citizens living in other EU countries, among a myriad of other decisions. Jan Techau, director of Carnegie Europe, a foreign-policy think tank, told CNN that the EU will probably be tough on the U.K. in negotiations to deter other countries from trying to follow Britains example. Its quite clear they will have to unify around a position that will make it quite painful for the U.K. to negotiate this exit so that everybody sees what happens to you if you try to do the same thing, Techau said. 5. Get the EU to approve the terms The European Parliament needs to approve the terms with a simple majority vote, and the Council of the European Union needs to approve it with a qualified majority of 20 out of the 27 remaining EU members. 6. Get the British Parliament to approve the terms Although not technically required by British law or Article 50, Britains political climate demands the negotiated terms of separation be brought before the nations Parliament before it can be ratified. 7. Do it all in 2 years. From the time that Britain notifies the European Council of its plans to leave, it has two years to complete negotiations. When that deadline comes, Britain will lose its membership automatically, whether or not it has made arrangements for trade and other transactions with other European countries. The deadline can be extended, however, with unanimous agreement from the European Council. 8. Or hold another referendum Some British officials, including Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt, have suggested there should be a second referendum to let people accept or reject the terms of the EU exit deal. Hunt told the BBC that the terms of negotiated trade deals are a huge decision and that citizens should be able to voice their opinions. There is nothing legally preventing another vote if public pressure mounts for such a referendum. The three suicide bombers who attacked Istanbuls airport this week were from Dagestan, a small and violence-wracked republic in Russias north Caucasus, and two central Asian states, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Turkish authorities said Thursday. They were part of a bigger group of possibly seven men, all suspected of an affiliation with the militant group Islamic State, who used assault rifles and suicide belts to kill travelers, airport employees, taxi drivers and police, authorities said. Turkish police staged raids in Istanbul and Izmir on Thursday, detaining 22 people also suspected of links with Islamic State, among them nine Turkish nationals and four foreigners. Advertisement Authorities believe the airport assault on Tuesday, which left 44 people dead, was the fourth significant attack mounted by the Syria-based militant group in Istanbul alone this year. But whether Turkey is prepared to make a decisive move against the group operating just across its border depends on a host of complicated regional questions that have long plagued the 5-year-old civil war in Syria. Turkish government officials say a coordinated response depends mainly on the United States, which thus far has refused to support any major international operation in Syria that goes beyond high-altitude airstrikes and military advisors to assist Kurdish militia fighting the extremists on the ground. Responding to questions here, Turkish officials said they were disappointed by what they viewed as a tepid U.S. reaction to the airport assault and Washingtons failure to consider an all-out drive by the U.S.-led coalition, up to and including deploying ground troops to drive out the militants. After the attack, President Obamas first reaction was to offer U.S. help in the investigation of the bombing, but that fell far short of expectations here. Its not about the investigation. Its about tackling these guys head on, said a senior Turkish official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Obama again appeared to disappoint Turkish officials in a formal statement in Ottawa on Thursday. After extending his deepest condolences to Turkey and saying he was heartbroken by the images of the dead and wounded, he spoke of Americas strong commitment to partner with Turkey, NATO and a U.S.-led alliance to fight Islamic State. This is not the proper way to deal with a terrorism threat on such a scale, the official said. If an attack on Ankara or Istanbul doesnt shake world opinion like an attack on Brussels or Paris did, something is wrong. We need to see more solidarity. The U.S. currently provides air cover and ground advisors to a Kurdish militia and allied Arab tribal fighters as they slowly wrest territory from Islamic State in northern Syria. But it has limited its use of force against the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad to providing covert U.S. aid to moderate rebel groups. The U.S. has insisted that Syrians and Iraqis are best equipped to take back control of their own countries. One of the fundamental tenets of U.S. policy is to create a durable solution, a U.S. official told the Los Angeles Times, speaking on condition of anonymity. We are not going to have a durable solution to the problem if the combat is done by non-local forces.... It will be a recruitment magnet for extremist groups. But many analysts here think that Islamic States very survival in the face of a long-running U.S.-led air campaign is serving as a recruitment magnet, and that every spectacular terrorist act it carries out adds to its attraction. Turkey views the U.S. commitment to local forces all the more skeptically because American support centers on the YPG Peoples Protection Force militia in Syria, a group Turkey views as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party, with which Ankara is now locked in a small war in southeastern Turkey. In Washington, CIA director John Brennan, at a forum sponsored by the Council on Foreign Relations, said Islamic State appears to have been deliberate in not claiming responsibility for recent attacks in Turkey. They carry out these attacks to gain the benefits in terms of sending a signal to our Turkish partners, he said. At the same time, he added, they may not actually claim responsibility in order to avoid alienating some of those individuals inside Turkey they may still want to gain the support of. Some U.S. analysts suggest that the airport strike could actually have the effect of improving cooperation between the U.S. and Turkey in the fight against Islamic State. ISIS, in trying to blow up the airport, may have been hoping to blow up Turkish-U.S. relations, but the opposite is probably true, said Henri Barkey, a Turkish expert and director of the Middle East program at the Wilson Center, a Washington think tank. It is not that relations will be better, but it could strengthen the U.S. hand and make Turkey see that [Islamic State] is the real threat. Turks fret that the U.S. has constructed a policy that has little chance of bringing stability to Syria. Turkey has also been critical of the U.S. failure to respond to Russias air intervention in Syria, a development which has allowed Russia and the Syrian government to bombard schools, hospitals, mosques and even U.S.-backed rebel forces with impunity. U.S. officials say Turkey for its part has failed to adequately support the ground drive against Islamic State in Syria. They note that the government in Ankara up until last year turned a blind eye to the movement of Islamic extremists crossing in and out of Syria from Turkey. But the issue of changing strategy in the fight against Islamic State may be a question of timing. First and foremost, it is in an election year in the U.S., the senior Turkish official noted. If there is any change, it will be up to the United States to take the lead, he said. And no one here expects any policy shifts before the election. For now, it appears that Turkey will focus not on military action but on police work. And the initial results indicate that the latest attack can be resolved if not avenged. Several news organizations named Ahmed Chatayev, a Dagestan native whos been linked to other terrorist attacks, as the main organizer of the airport assault, but it was not clear whether he was one of those who self-detonated or escaped. According to a number of news outlets quoting Turkish law enforcement sources, the three suicide bombers had rented an apartment in Fatih, a central Istanbul district which now has many Syrian residents, in late May, and had little contact with their neighbors. Shortly after 8:30 pm. Tuesday night, the three men, carrying backpacks and a wheeled suitcase, walked to the Aksaray stop on the Istanbul subway. After dropping papers in a refuse container, they got in a taxi 15 minutes later and asked the driver in Turkish to go to the airport. Upon, arriving, they unpacked suicide vests from the suitcase, and went in three directions to carry out the attack, according to the newspaper Hurriyet. One went into the airport parking garage, but he drew attention from a police officer who noticed he was wearing a coat on a hot summers night. Asked for his papers, the attacker opened fire, then fled to an upper floor where he self-detonated. A second man went toward the departure terminal, but was spotted by police and shot. He still managed to detonate the suicide bomb, causing damage at the front of the terminal and inside but no deaths. The third went to the arrivals terminal and apparently entered the security checkpoint at the main entrance, where he began to shoot at passengers. A customs officer shot at him but died when the attacker set off the suicide vest. The force of the explosion blew down the ceiling tiles, broke glass all over the main arrivals area, and appears to be the main cause of death and destruction. Times staff writer Tracy Wilkinson contributed from Washington. Gutman is a special correspondent. ALSO U.S.-backed rebels launched their first attack against Islamic State. They lost. President Obamas militant kill list doesnt end at Osama bin Laden Heres what has to happen before Britain can leave the EU UPDATES: 4:20 p.m.: This article was updated throughout. 11:02 a.m.: This article was updated with staff reporting throughout. This article was originally published at 4:25 a.m. Police on Thursday conducted simultaneous raids on 16 locations in Istanbul, rounding up 13 people suspected of involvement in a devastating attack at Istanbuls Ataturk Airport in which the Islamic State group is the prime suspect. A senior Turkish official said the three suicide attackers who carried out the deadly attack on Istanbuls main airport were nationals of Russia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. The official could not confirm Turkish media reports that the Russian national was from the restive Daghestan region. Advertisement The official said extensive soft-tissue damage had complicated efforts to identify the attackers. A medical team is working around the clock to conclude the identification process, he told journalists. The official spoke on condition of anonynity in line with government regulations Tuesdays gunfire and suicide bombing attack at the airport killed 42 people and wounded more than 230 others. The dead included 13 foreign nationals of whom three were dual nationals. Thursday marked a second day of funerals and mourning. The state-run Anadolu Agency said the police raids were carried out in Istanbuls Pendik, Basaksehir and Sultanbeyli neighborhoods, which span the citys Asian and European sides. Authorities say all information suggests that the attack on one of the worlds busiest airports was the work of the Islamic State group. There was no immediate claim of responsibility by the militant group, which used Turkey as a crossing point to establish itself in neighboring Syria and Iraq. Islamic State this week boasted to have cells in Turkey, among other countries. In separate large-scale police operations, nine suspects believed to be linked to the group were also detained in the coastal city of Izmir. It was not clear if the suspects had any links to the carnage at the airport. The Izmir raids unfolded simultaneously in theKonak, Bucak, Karabaglar and Bornova area, according to the Anadolu Agency. Police seized three hunting rifles and documents relating to Islamic State. The report said the suspects were in contact with Islamic State militants in Syria and were engaged in activities that were in line with the organizations aims and interests, including providing financial sources, recruits and logistical support. Days before the Istanbul attack, on June 25, security forces killed two suspected Islamic State militants who were trying to cross the border illegally and ignored orders from security forces to stop, according to local media reports. One of the two militants was wanted by Turkey on suspicion that he would carry out suicide attacks in the capital, Ankara, or in the southern city of Adana, Anadolu said. Turkey shares long, porous borders with Syria and Iraq, where Islamic State controls large pockets of territory. The government has blamed the group for several major bombings over the last year, including in the capital and on tourists in Istanbul. Two Taliban suicide bombers attacked several buses filled with police cadets Thursday, killing 30 and injuring at least 58, a government spokesman said. The first bomber walked up to the convoy of buses arriving in Kabul from Wardak province, which is home to one of the largest police academies in Afghanistan, and detonated his explosives, according to Sediq Sediqqi, an Interior Ministry spokesman. As cadets and officers rushed to help survivors of the first blast, the second bomber detonated a vehicle packed with explosives, he said. Advertisement The cadets were largely in their late teens to mid-20s, officials said. Some of them had just graduated and were being transferred to new areas to work. Others were traveling to Kabul to celebrate Eid al Fitr, the period of feasting that marks the end of Ramadan and one of Islams most sacred holidays. See the most-read stories this hour >> We were following the bus that was targeted first, said a police trainer, who asked to remain anonymous because he was not authorized to speak on the matter. Before he could stop and get out to help, the second bomb went off. I saw a huge plume of fire in the sky and rushed to help injured ones, he said. Forty-five policemen were riding on the first bus, he said. None of them survived. Some others were also killed and injured from the second blast. The Taliban immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, claiming that over 100 policemen were killed and dozens wounded. According to the governor of the province, Zundi Gul Zamani, 231 officers and cadets had set out from Wardak in five vehicles. I instructed provincial security forces to take high security measures for their transportation, but sadly they were targeted in Kabul, he said. Sharif, 25, who only goes by one name, runs a blacksmith shop about 325 feet away from the blast. It was around 12 p.m. that I heard a boom, which was not as powerful as the second one. All glass in my shop shattered, and I couldnt see anything but explosion dust, Sharif said. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said in a statement that a probe would be launched to determine whether security protocols were followed adequately during the cadets trip. The attack took place in an area of Kabul that the Taliban frequently targets in suicide attack missions. Eleven Wardak appellate court members were targeted by a suicide bomber on May 25 in the same provincial district, after six Taliban prisoners were ordered executed by the Afghan government on May 9. The U.S. Embassy in Kabul condemned Thursdays attack. We will continue to stand with our Afghan partners and friends as they work to bring peace and security to Afghanistan, the embassy said in a statement. ALSO President Obamas militant kill list doesnt end at Osama bin Laden U.S.-backed rebels launched their first attack against Islamic State. They lost. Navy disciplines nine service members who mistakenly wandered into Irans territorial waters Since taking office, President Obama has sent U.S. troops into action on land or in the skies of seven countries on two continents. Obamas administration has authorized Navy SEALs to kill Osama bin Laden in Pakistan and approved the fatal drone strike on an American cleric in Yemen. Here is a look at targeted killings under the Obama administration. Faruq Qatani | Al Qaeda When: Death announced Nov. 4, 2016 How: A precision airstrike carried out by the United States military on Oct. 23, 2016 Where: Kunar Province, Afghanistan Qatani was a top Al Qaeda leader in the eastern part of Afghanistan and one of Al Qaeda's "senior plotters of attacks against the United States," according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Defense. Read more >> Abu Muhammad Adnani | Islamic State Adnani, the Islamic State militant groups spokesman, is shown in this undated image provided by SITE Intelligence Group. (Associated Press) (Associated Press) When: Death announced Aug. 30, 2016 How: Drone strike but could not confirm his death. Islamic State said he was killed. Where: Al Bab, Syria Adnani was deeply involved in the Sunni Muslim militant groups larger operational strategies and served as its spokesman, creating a propaganda machine that has attracted foreign recruits from all over the globe. Read more >> Hafiz Saeed Khan | Islamic State When: July 26, 2016 How: Killed in a drone strike Where: Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan The State Department last year designated Khan a global terrorist, saying he is the leader of Islamic State in Khorasan, which includes former members of the Pakistani and Afghan Taliban. Khan had previously been a Tehrik-e Taliban commander, but last year pledged loyalty to Islamic State leader Abu Bakr Baghdadi. Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mansour | Taliban Mansour in an image released by the militant group in December 2015. (Afghan Taliban) (Afghan Taliban) Killed: May 21, 2016 How: Drone strike Where: In western Pakistan along the Afghanistan border Mansour was killed when a drone strike hit his vehicle as he traveled in Baluchistan, Pakistan. Mansour, known for his mercurial leadership, had been in the U.S. militarys crosshairs for years. He officially took charge of the Taliban in the summer of 2015 after the group acknowledged the death of founder Mullah Mohammad Omar. Read more >> Rahman Mustafa Qaduli, a.k.a. Abu Ala Afri and Haji Imam | Islamic State Rahman Mustafa Qaduli (U.S. State Department.) (U.S. State Department) When: March 24, 2016 How: Died during an attempt by special operations to capture him Where: Syria Qaduli was an influential finance minister for Islamic State and a close advisor to the group's leader, Abu Bakr Baghdadi. He was a key player in Islamic State's military and financial operations, according to the Pentagon. Qaduli, who had as many as a dozen aliases, joined Al Qaeda in Iraq in 2004, serving as Abu Musab Zarqawi's liaison for operations with Pakistan. The group was later rebranded as Islamic State. He was held in U.S. custody at the Camp Bucca military prison in Iraq in 2006, along with many other prisoners who went on to senior positions in Islamic State. He was released in 2012. Read more >> Abu Nabil, a.k.a. Wissam Najm Abd Zayd al Zubaydi | Islamic State (AFP PHOTO / HO / AL-HAYAT MEDIA CENTRE) (Test) When: Nov. 14, 2015 How: Killed by jet strike Where: Derna, Libya Nabil led Islamic State in Libya and was a longtime Al Qaeda figure. He was killed during a F-15 jet strike targeted at his compound in eastern Libya the countrys government in effect has been a void since the toppling of Moammar Kadafi in 2011. The Pentagon suggested Nabil may have played a key role in an execution video showing the beheading of 21 Coptic Christian Egyptians along the southern Mediterranean coast in early 2015. Read more >> Jihadi John Mohammed Emwazi | Islamic State (AFP/Getty Images) (Test) When: Nov. 12, 2015 How: Killed by drone Where: Raqqah, Syria The 27-year-old British citizen was given the moniker Jihadi John after he appeared in videos announcing the killing of American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, as well as the slaying of American aid worker Abdul-Rahman Kassig, British aid workers David Haines and Alan Henning, and Japanese journalist Kenji Goto. Emwazi was described as a quiet and hardworking schoolboy in affluent northwest London and a graduate of University of Westminsters computer science program, and his presence brought the issue of homegrown extremism to the forefront. "He was one of the worst, who hit and tortured without any restraint, Didier Francois, a journalist held for 10 months in Syria, told a French radio station. Read more >> Muhsin Fadhli | Al Qaeda (Test) When: July 8, 2015 How: Vehicle was hit during drone strike Where: Sarmada, Syria Fadhli, who fought for the Taliban as a teenager in Afghanistan, had advanced notice of the Sept. 11 attacks. Years later, U.S. intelligence analysts had fears that his faction was progressing in its ability to attack jets and other Western targets. The head of a shadowy cell of veteran Al Qaeda operatives known as the Khorasan Group, he was killed while traveling in his vehicle near the Turkish border in the Syrian town of Sarmada. He was identified as the authority of Al Qaedas operations in Iran before relocating to Syria. Read more >> Ali Awni Harzi | Islamic State When: June 15, 2015 How: Airstrike Where: Mosul, Iraq Tunisian-born Harzi was a suspect in the 2012 Benghazi, Libya, attack, which resulted in the deaths of four Americans. His brother, Tariq Harzi, was known as the emir of suicide bombers for orchestrating hundreds of suicide bombings among jihadists. "While it may have taken years to track down and eliminate Ali Awni al Harzi, those who kill Americans must understand that our memories are long and our commitment to justice is steadfast," Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank), the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said. Read more >> Mokhtar Belmokhtar | Al Mourabitoun (AFP/Getty Images) (Test) When: June 13, 2015 How: Airstrike Where: Libya The Al Qaeda-linked North African was the architect of a 2013 plot to seize a natural gas refinery in Amenas, Algeria, which resulted in the deaths of more than 38 foreign captives from 10 countries, including three Americans. Belmokhtar had an extensive history of organizing terrorism, yet always slipped out of the clutches of the U.S. military and its allies. In fact, the French government had nicknamed the Algerian militant "the Uncatchable." Read more >> Adan Garar | Shabab When: March 12, 2015 How: Vehicle struck by drone strike Where: Bardera, Somalia Garar was a strategic commander who planned the high-profile attack on Nairobis Westgate shopping mall in 2013, which killed at least 67 people including children. Only those who could prove they were Muslim were spared. The Shabab leader was killed in his vehicle near the southwestern town of Bardera in Somalia. The Shabab, which has pledged allegiance to Al Qaeda rather than Islamic State, has suffered blows to their military capabilities in recent years. Read more Adam Gadahn | Al Qaeda (AFP/Getty Images) (Test) When: Jan. 19, 2015 How: CIA drone strike Where: Waziristan, Pakistan The Orange County native, who served as a top propagandist for Al Qaeda, was killed in a CIA drone strike in Waziristan, Pakistan. The grandson of a Jewish doctor, Gadahn converted to Islam in 1995. He frequented the Islamic Center of Orange County, where those close to Gadahn say he fell under the influence of Hisham Diab, an accountant who lived in the Little Gaza section of Anaheim, who espoused extremist views Gadahn appeared in five incendiary Al Qaeda videos before his death and became the first American since the World War II era to be charged with treason. Read more >> Hakimullah Mehsud | Pakistani Taliban Mehsud in 2008. (AFP Photo / A Majeed) (Test) When: Nov. 1, 2013 How: CIA drone strike Where: Waziristan, Pakistan The leader of the Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, was killed by a CIA drone strike in Waziristan, Pakistan. He was known for attacking a CIA base in Afghanistan and a campaign that killed thousands of Pakistani civilians and security force members. Mehsud was considered a top militant, and the FBI held a $5-million bounty on his head in the months before he was killed. Yet, Pakistani Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan condemned the drone strikes, calling them an attempt to sabotage peace talks between the Pakistani government and the Taliban. Read more >> Maulvi Nazir | Pakistani Taliban Maulvi Nazir meets with associates in South Waziristan in April 2007. (Ishtiaq Mahsud / Associated Press) (Test) When: Jan. 2, 2013 How: Drone strike Where: Northwest Pakistan A U.S. drone strike in northwest Pakistan killed the top Taliban commander responsible for coordinating attacks on U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. Nazir was one of two Taliban commanders in the Waziristan tribal regions to issue decrees against polio vaccination efforts in their areas. Nazir said his decision to ban the vaccinations was motivated by Washingtons drone campaign and a phony inoculation program orchestrated by the CIA in 2011 to help track down Osama bin Laden. Read more Abu Yahya al Libi | Al Qaeda (Test) When: June 4, 2012 How: Drone strike Where: North Waziristan, Pakistan Al Qaedas former second-in-command, Libi was killed in a U.S. drone missile strike on Hesokhel, a small village in North Waziristan near the Afghan border. North Waziristan has long been a stronghold for Al Qaeda, the Taliban, the Haqqani network and other militant groups. Libis death was a big win for covert U.S. anti-terrorism operations in Pakistan, which had their milestone with the killing of Osama bin Laden in early 2011. Read more >> Sakhr Taifi | Al Qaeda When: May 29, 2012 How: Airstrike Where: Kunar, Afghanistan Al Qaedas second-in-command in Afghanistan was killed in an airstrike coordinated by coalition forces. Taifi frequently commanded attacks against NATO and Afghan forces, and he traveled frequently between Afghanistan and Pakistan to relocate weapons and insurgent fighters. Read more Abdul-Rahman Awlaki and Ibrahim Banna | Al Qaeda When: Oct. 14, 2011 How: Drone strike Where: Azzan, Yemen Awlaki, a 16-year-old U.S. citizen, was eating dinner along the side of a road when he was killed by a drone strike. Awlakis father, Anwar, was killed two weeks earlier for terrorist operations, but the sons killing sparked outrage among human rights activists who argued that Awlakis death was unrelated to his fathers activities and he was executed without charge, trial or legitimate reasoning. "If the government is going to be firing Predator missiles at American citizens, surely the American public has a right to know whos being targeted and why." Jameel Jaffer, deputy legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union, said. Also killed was Egyptian-born Banna, whom officials described as the media chief of the Al Qaeda affiliate in Yemen. Read more >> Anwar Awlaki | Al Qaeda A file picture released by the SITE Intelligence Group on September 26, 2010 shows US-Yemeni radical Anwar al-Awlaki speaking during a video lecture at an unknown location. (AFP/Getty Images) (Test) When: Sept. 30, 2011 How: Drone strike Where: Azzan, Yemen The American-born Muslim cleric, accused of inspiring and plotting terrorist attacks on Americans, including the deadly shooting at an army base in Texas, was killed by a Hellfire missile fired from a drone aircraft operated by the CIA. Although Awlaki was a midlevel figure in Al Qaeda, he cast a potent shadow in U.S. counter-terrorism circles because he spoke fluent English and was effective at reaching disaffected Muslims in the United States and elsewhere via speeches and sermons on the Internet. His death marked not only an escalation of Obama administration efforts to kill leaders of Al Qaeda and its affiliates, but also another significant intelligence coup after the CIA-led raid that killed Osama bin Laden on May 2, 2011, in Pakistan. Read more >> Atiyah Abdul Rahman | Al Qaeda When: Aug. 22, 2011 How: CIA Predator drone strike Where: Waziristan, Pakistan Rahman first met Osama bin Laden in his teens, and the Al Qaeda kingpin appointed him to chief liaison for the group in Iran. Though he was unknown to most Americans, he "gained considerable stature in Al Qaeda as an explosives expert and Islamic scholar," according to the website of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center. Atiyah was at the top of Al Qaeda's trusted core," said an intelligence official, who would not be identified discussing sensitive defense matters. "His combination of background, experience and abilities are unique in Al Qaeda; without question, they will not be easily replaced." Read more Ilyas Kashmiri | Al Qaeda Ilyas Kashmiri (Saeed Khan / AFP/Getty Images) (Test) When: June 3, 2011 How: Drone strike Where: South Waziristan, Pakistan Ilyas Kashmiri, a key Al Qaeda strategist, was killed in a 2011 strike in South Waziristan, Pakistan. Reports on Kashmiri alleged that he trained mujahedin to counter Soviet forces in 1980s Afghanistan and that he was tipped to command Al Qaeda after Osama bin Ladens death. Kashmiri led a militant group in Pakistan and in recent years had been brought into the leadership of Al Qaeda, running a training camp and planning attacks against targets in India and Europe, said a U.S. intelligence official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to publicly discuss the matter. Read more >> Osama bin Laden | Al Qaeda Osama bin Laden (Associated Press) (Test) When: May 2, 2011 How: U.S. special forces unit raid Where: Abbottabad, Pakistan The founder of Al Qaeda and the mastermind of the Sept. 11 attacks was killed during a special forces raid of his compound. The Saudi Arabia-born extremist kingpin vanished after the fall of the World Trade Center towers. Once or twice a year, Bin Laden popped up on a new video or audio recording, mocking America's leaders and urging his faithful to follow his path. They did so with bombings in London, Madrid, Bali, Indonesia, and elsewhere. Interrogators at the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, were pushed to ask Al Qaeda suspects in custody about possible couriers. The information came in pieces, a U.S. official said, and it took years. Read more >> Abdallah Umar Qurayshi | Al Qaeda When: Sept. 25, 2010 How: Airstrike Where: Kunar, Afghanistan The bombing of a compound in Kunar province, close to the border with Pakistan, killed Abdallah Umar Qurayshi, who had led Al Qaeda-affiliated Arab fighters operating in two eastern provinces, and Abu Atta Kuwaiti, an explosives expert. Western troops, nearly all of them American, pulled out of the remote, rugged Korengal Valley after suffering heavy losses over several years. Fighters led by Qurayshi had staged attacks on Western forces in Kunar and Nuristan provinces, where insurgents sometimes targeted isolated U.S. outposts with devastating results. Read more Sheik Said Masri | Al Qaeda When: May 21, 2010 How: Drone Strike Where: Pakistan Al Qaeda's former third-ranking leader a close associate and relative by marriage to Osama bin Laden was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Pakistan's tribal region. The death of Masri, an Egyptian who was believed to act as the terrorist network's operational leader, was a major blow to Al Qaeda, which had suffered a steady degradation of its leadership and ability to mount attacks since the U.S. stepped up its campaign of missile strikes by unmanned aircraft in the tribal region. Read more >> Hussein Yemeni | Al Qaeda When: March 8, 2010 How: Drone Strike Where: Miram Shah, Pakistan The death of the elusive Yemeni proved a source of elation for U.S. intelligence officials after the expert bomb maker was killed by drone strike in early 2010. It is believed that Yemeni played a strategic role in the 2009 Camp Chapman suicide attack in Afghanistan that killed seven CIA employees and contractors. A counter-terrorism official described the Miram Shah strike as a "clean, precise action that shows these killers cannot hide even in relatively built-up places." Read more >> Baitullah Mahsud | Pakistani Taliban Baitullah Mehsud (A. Majeed / AFP/Getty Images) (Test) When: Aug. 5, 2009 How: Predator drone strike Where: Miram Shah, Pakistan Mahsud was a founding militant of the Pakistani Taliban, which U.S. intelligence suggested could have been behind the 2007 assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Despite his small stature, it is suggested that he had commanded as many as 20,000 fighters and provided refuge for Afghani Taliban members after the 2001 U.S. invasion. Read more >> All material is subject to strictly enforced copyright terms & conditions and cannot be repurposed or reproduced. 19882022 Latin American Financial Publications Inc. On 29 June Argentinas federal senate gave final approval to a legislative package that among other things calls for a temporary tax amnesty on undeclared assets to help finance state pensions. End of preview - This article contains approximately 482 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options A Mexican judge has halted efforts to have reputed drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman extradited here to the U.S. The Mexican Attorney General's office reports all proceedings have been halted until the court can consider an appeal to the proposed move lodged by Guzman's legal team. Guzman Charged in Number of Federal Indictments Originally, Guzman's extradition to the States was approved back in May, with the stipulation that the government would not seek the death penalty against him. He is charged in a number of federal indictments with running lucrative and violent drug rings all over the U.S. The ruling now means it could be months or even years before El Chapo ever sets foot on U.S. soil or in its judicial system. Guzman is now being held at a maximum security prison near the U.S. border. Guzman has already escaped twice before from the custody of Mexican officials, one remaining at large for as long as 13 years. He was most recently recaptured earlier this year after he escaped through an underground tunnel from his cell to the outside world. Guard's Murder Still Probed Meanwhile, a guard assigned to guard the prison were Guzman is now being held was recently found murdered near the facility with signs of torture to his body. Jorge Maurico Melendez Herrera, 20, is reported to have died of a blow to the back of the neck. He had also been stabbed numerous times. As many as 300 soldiers have now been assigned to provide security around the prison. More recently, the remains of the seven men were discovered in Mexico's western Sinaloa state, otherwise known as the now jailed Guzman's old home turf. Authorities are now probing to determine if any of the killings may be connected to Guzman or the Sinaloa drug cartel he once served as the face of. Hillary Clinton leads Donald Trump by an average of 11 points in the seven biggest battleground states heading into the 2016 general election. A new Ballotpedia battleground poll shows Clinton leading across the board in Florida (51 percent to 37 percent), Iowa (45 percent to 41 percent), Michigan (50 percent to 33 percent), North Carolina (48 percent to 38 percent), Ohio (46 percent to 37 percent), Pennsylvania (49 percent to 35 percent) and Virginia (45 percent to 38 percent). Each of the states is viewed as critical to the aspirations of both candidates, and territories were both parties strive to remain competitive seemingly at all cost. Hundreds Polled in Each State Roughly 600 voters in each state were polled for the survey over a 12-day period commencing on June 10. Each survey has a margin of error of plus or minus four points. A recent Quinnipiac University poll also offered encouraging news for Clinton, with the former first lady leading by eight points in Florida, while up a point in Pennsylvania and running even in Ohio. Overall, Clinton tops Trump 42 percent to 40 percent in the Quinnipiac poll and is up on him 39 percent to 37 percent when third party Libertarian candidate Gary Johnson (8 percent of vote) and Green Party nominee Jill Stein (4 percent) are factored in. Recent polls conducted by the Washington Post/ABC News and NBC News /Wall Street Journal show Clinton holding significantly larger leads over Trump, who continues to struggle mightily among Latino voters. Trump's Latino Support Nearly Nonexistent A recent Washington Post/ABC News poll found nine out of every 10 Hispanic voters has a negative image of the New York City real estate mogul. With all that, some GOP delegates continue to spark talk of replacing the political neophyte with another more established and polished candidate. The Ballotpedia survey found runs slightly behind Ohio Gov. John Kasich in a head to head match-up and even with House Speaker Paul Ryan. Thanks to Donald Trump's racially-charged rhetoric, he and Hillary Clinton are being shunned from next month's gathering of prominent Latino leaders in Orlando. National Council of La Raza President Janet Murguia announced Wednesday that neither presumptive presidential nominee was extended an invitation to July's NCLR Annual Conference. The country's largest Hispanic civil rights group routinely welcomes candidates from both political parties, but Trump's "indiscriminate vilification of an entire community and numerous other communities" made it difficult for NCLR leadership to "Mr. Trump has - without relent and without apology - engaged in a concerted effort to denigrate and demonize not just immigrants, but the entire 5 million-plus Latinos in this country," Murguia said in a press release. "Simply put, Mr. Trump has not earned the privilege of our platform." The NCLR did not invite Clinton out of fairness, and because they believe the electoral process "is best served when both parties are competing for the Latino vote." Trump's Immigration Policy Trump began his campaign by labeling all Mexicans as rapists and criminals. Instead of backing down, the real estate magnate doubled-down on his anti-immigration policy, vowing to deport some 11 million undocumented Latinos and fortify the U.S.-Mexico border wall at the Mexican government's expense. His wavering immigration reform plan stands on three core principles: a nation without borders is not a nation; a nation without laws is not a nation; and a nation that does not serve its own citizens is not a nation. In Trump's view, defending these ideals means ending birthright citizenship and turning away Mexicans and Muslims seeking asylum. While his Muslim ban has softened, it still denies refugees from countries with terrorist ties. "Such rhetoric undermines who we are as a country and the example we set for the rest of the world," Murguia said at the NCLR Capital Awards in March. "To our community, we must not stand idly by while others define us. We must define ourselves. We will not be demonized. We ill not be a punching bag. And we must use the power of our voice and vote to punch back." The NCLR, Latino Groups Unite Last month, Trump attacked U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel over purported ties to La Raza. Curiel is affiliated with La Raza, only his membership is with a lawyer's association in San Diego, not the NCLR. "He's Mexican," Trump said, insinuating that the judge overseeing a lawsuit against Trump University is prejudice. Curiel was born in Indiana. The country's leading Latino advocacy organizations issued a joint statement demanding an apology, both for Curiel and the Latino community. They called Trump's statements "a textbook example of racism" that is unacceptable and un-American. In his personalized statement, Labor Council for Latin American Advancement Executive Director Hector Sanchez said Trump deserves the condemnation he is receiving. "Trump conveys to all the daughters and sons of Mexican immigrants that their contributions to our nation are not valued equally - simply because of their Mexican heritage," Sanchez said. "This a far cry from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream that we judge each other on the content of our character, not the color of our skin." Carlisles Employee Relations and Citizen Participation Committee meeting Wednesday showed evidence of a split between not only among Carlisle Borough Council members, but also among residents on whether or not such a committee is needed in the borough. Borough Councilman Sean Crampsie led Wednesdays discussion on creating an anti-discrimination ordinance and Human Relations Committee, calling it something Ive been very passionate about. The Sentinel first reported on the proposed ordinance on June 16. The purpose is to create an accepting and non-discriminatory environment in our community. Within any proposed ordinance what I would like to see is an anti-discrimination portion as well as a Human Relations Commission, so you have your portion that would deal with discrimination, then youd also have that body that would deal with any complaints, Crampsie said. I think its time for local control, and this issue is affecting our community, so I think its time for our local body to step up to the plate and have this conversation. Councilman Sean Shultz said the council must first authorize the boroughs solicitor to review the sample ordinance, which would then be considered at the July 14 council meeting. If the council approves the solicitors review, the ERCP will have an evening meeting in late July to gather and provide further information and comment, with more residents perhaps able to attend the meeting, he said. Debate Council members were split Wednesday on not only the effectiveness of such an ordinance and commission, but also on how such a commission would be staffed, funded and how useful it would be to the borough. Councilwoman Connie Bires was among the most vocal opponents of the idea. I dont think you can force Carlisle to be an accepting community with an ordinance, I think thats counterintuitive, she said before calling Crampsies proposal a knee-jerk reaction. I think its overkill of nuclear proportions, she continued. Carlisle has been around 200-plus years; has there ever been any sort of anti-discrimination ordinance? Its not like Carlisle has been welcoming to the Native Americans at the Indian School, or the African-Americans in our community, but are you going to force it? I dont think so. She also criticized the proposal as characterizing those within the LGBTQ community as victims and weaklings, as well as a Human Rights Commission costing the borough a fortune. Its one additional piece of government we do not need, she said. Shultz disagreed, claiming that the ideas were absolutely not knee-jerk reactions to anything, reminding those in attendance that six years ago a similar ordinance was drafted before eventually falling to the wayside. The suggestion that this is some knee-jerk reaction to the tragedy (Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting) is inaccurate, this is a conversation Ive had with at least one or two other council members over the last couple of years and Im proud of Sean for stepping forward in his leadership role now on council and pushing forward something thats difficult for many, Shultz said. Protection needed Shultz said he feels there is a great need to provide protection for those within the LGBTQ and other under-served minority groups in the community. I see this as another civil rights movement, he said. Its time to move this forward, its the right thing to do, its the moral thing to do, and a resolution without any teeth does nothing, and Im not interested in passing another ordinance that does nothing. Council members Perry Heath and Robin Guido also voiced concerns over the proposal, with Heaths argument stemming more from the practicality in remaining fair to all individuals involved and the pitfalls of funding a potential commission. Guido said she felt LGBTQ discrimination rules should be handled on a state and county level before those in municipal government are forced to take action. Councilwoman Dawn Flower was for the ordinance and commission, and read a statement on why such a conversation is overdue in Carlisle. A number of residents jumped at the opportunity to speak, with all but one of them in opposition of the proposal. Some said they didnt see an issue in the community, while others cited that the anti-discrimination language in the ordinance actually discriminates against others (those within certain faith communities). Im just trying to figure out what the problem is. You indicated this is an initiative started 10 years ago, so why if something was initiated 10 years ago is it coming back now? Why now? said Scott Buran, who moved to Carlisle from upstate New York in 2008. What is the problem? Ill be the first one to protest any of these groups being discriminated against, but the thrust of almost the entire discussion has been about the LGBT community. Im just trying to understand why this ordinance is needed. Carlisle resident Alan Howe quipped that like all of the previous white men who spoke here today, I too find Carlisle to be welcoming to all, however, he followed that by saying that doesnt always apply to his wife, who is a minority. Many residents who spoke also noted the verbiage within the ordinance was problematic in some areas, but Shultz mentioned multiple times that it was a rough draft and not meant to go public just quite yet. Jun 30, 2016, 11:38am ET Honda Accord celebrates 40-years in America The Honda Accord is celebrating its 40th year in America. Honda is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Accord nameplate in the United States market. The Honda Accord arrived on the scene in June 1976 when gas was just 59-cents per gallon and the No. 1 song on the radio was Silly Love Songs. Although just a newcomer at the time, the Accord has gone on to become America's best-selling car over the last four-decades. "The Accord embodies the challenging spirit of Honda and our commitment to delivering innovative products to our customers of the highest quality, reliability and value," said John Mendel, executive vice president of the Automobile Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Accord's success over four decades is deeply woven into the fabric of American car culture and American industry, and we are thankful for and deeply humbled by the loyalty and trust that our customers have placed in Honda and in Accord over the past 40 years. The Accord started life as a three-door hatchback with a wheelbase shorter than that of today's Fit sub-compact, but the nameplate has grown up through its nine-generation to become a mid-size vehicle offered as a coupe and sedan. The Accord set a major milestone in 1982 when it became the first Honda and first vehicle from a Japanese automaker to be produced in the United States. The current-day Accord is still made in the same plant in Marysville, Ohio. Two men accused of trying to steal a hoverboard at gunpoint ended up empty-handed and wounded by gunfire when they crashed the getaway car, an Allentown police detective testified Thursday. Tai-Jan Edwards, 18, and Marcus McCrae, 20, now face trial on robbery and related charges following their preliminary hearings. Edwards remains in Lehigh County jail in lieu of $200,000 bail; McCrae is in prison on 10 percent of $100,000 bail. McCrae is accused of pulling the gun on the robbery victim on April 14 and pistol-whipping him at Pioneer and West Tilghman streets. The victim refused to give up the hoverboard, Det. Raymond Ferraro said, and that's when a group of men including Edwards got out of a car and a fracas ensued. McCrae allegedly fired one round, after which the victim reported hearing numerous rounds, Ferraro said. There has been no evidence the victim had a gun, the detective testified. McCrae was shot in the leg and Edwards suffered a graze wound on his head, Ferraro said. After the car crashed at North Sixth and West Washington streets, a group of men including Edwards ran away, Ferraro said. Edwards fled from the back seat, bleeding from his leg wound, police said. Edwards walked to Lehigh Valley Hospital at 17th and Chew streets, before being transferred to Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Township. Ferraro said a bullet went into the driver's side headrest, and authorities believe Edwards was sitting in the rear driver's side seat as the car fled. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A 23-year-old Bethlehem man was assaulted about 9:30 p.m. Wednesday and his cellphone taken after five men got out of two vehicles on Walter Road in Bethlehem Township, police report. The victim had left the township community center and was walking home when he was attacked, township police said. After the beating and robbery, he tried to continue walking, but was in too much pain, police said. He was transported by a township ambulance to St. Luke's University Hospital in Fountain Hill, police said. Police could not release information on the vehicles or the five men, saying "no further information is available at this time." Anyone with information on the crime is asked to call township police at 610-814-6426. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A Philadelphia man is jailed after allegedly stealing $600 from a client during a move. Bradford Castleberry, 35, was employed by Philadelphia-based Elvis Dirt Cheap Moving Co. and assigned to help a male client move on Jan. 9, according to court records. The client was moving from Philadelphia to a new apartment in the 400 block of Brighton Street, Bethlehem, police said. The victim told police he left his checkbook on the kitchen counter of the new apartment. On Jan. 14, the victim noticed $600 had been withdrawn from his checking account, in which he did not authorize, according to police. The victim contacted TD Bank and learned the check allegedly was made out to Castleberry. A bank fraud investigator was able to provide police with photographs of Castleberry, as well as his driver's license. Castleberry is charged with forgery, receiving stolen property and theft. He was arraigned Thursday before District Judge Richard Yetter III, who set bail at $5,000. In lieu of bail, Castleberry was taken to Northampton County Prison. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. The splash of a paddle, the warmth of the sun and the smooth, soothing sound of water brought nature-lovers together Wednesday on the Lehigh River for the 20th annual Lehigh River Sojourn. The Lehigh River Sojourn is Wildlands Conservancy's 55-mile guided paddling tour on the Lehigh River. The five-day trek happens every June. On the first day, paddlers go whitewater-rafting from Drake's Creek to Glen Onoko. Day Two: A canoeing/kayaking paddle from Jim Thorpe to Walnutport. The third day starts in Walnutport and ends in Whitehall Township. The fourth day, paddlers travel from Northampton to Bethlehem. And on the final day, they paddle into Easton, finishing off at Easton's Hugh Moore Park. The goal: For paddlers to see wildlife along the way and hopefully gain an appreciation for preserving the Lehigh River. "This is all about education and river awareness," said Chris Kocher, the conservancy's president. "It's a great way to get people exposed to our mission and learn to have more appreciation for the river and what it offers." Saed Hindash may be reached at shindash@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @SaedHindash. Find lehighvalleylive on Facebook. For the second time in as many days, a man was shot as gunfire drew authorities to an Easton neighborhood Wednesday. Residents reported hearing multiple shots just after 7 p.m. in the city's West Ward, and police were looking for at least three people in connection with the crime. Easton police found evidence of shooting at multiple locations, including a vehicle that had been shot and shell casings in the 1100 block of Lehigh Street; additional evidence in the area of Elder and Spruce streets; and a second vehicle shot and shell casings in front of the Rose of Sharon Church of Christ Disciples of Christ Inc. at South 12th and Spruce streets, Lt. Matthew Gerould confirmed. Investigators were approached on South 12th Street by a 62-year-old male victim suffering from an apparent gunshot wound that did not appear to be life-threatening, the lieutenant said. An ambulance trailed by a police car sped away from the scene west on Northampton Street, from South 11th Street. A witness said he saw someone firing a handgun on Lehigh Street near Elder Street: "Dude wasn't even looking, he was just shooting. I had to shove my kids into the alley." City police closed off several blocks, including Spruce and Lehigh streets between South 11th and 12th streets. Gerould said police were looking for perpetrators described as follows: A black male with thin build, wearing a floral shirt and khaki cargo shorts. A black male standing about 6 feet tall, weighing 150 to 160 pounds and wearing a black tank top and blue jeans. A light-skinned black male with braided hair, wearing a black T-shirt and camouflage shorts. A black male with short dreadlocks, wearing a black tank top and dark pants. Investigators were also looking for a blue Chrysler 200 or 300 and Dodge Caliber with tinted windows, Gerould said. Witnesses told of multiple people, around the ages of 17 or 18, running after the gunfire rang out. According to Gerould: "Witnesses in the area observed a large group of juvenile males in the area of the 1100 block of Lehigh Street prior to the shooting. The group was observed fleeing on Elder Street and South 12th Street after the shooting. ... Witnesses advised that several individuals fled with handguns, and it is believed that there may be more than one shooter. One man said he counted six shots. A woman heard two groups of four shots. The incident followed a shooting just before 10 p.m. Tuesday in the 500 block of Valley Street, near West Berwick Street, on the city's South Side. Authorities identified the victim in that case as Shaquille Burke, but had not as of Wednesday evening announced an arrest or identity of anyone sought. Wednesday's shooting incident came during daylights hours on a late-June evening. One resident had just sat down for dinner: "I thought they were firecrackers because they were setting stuff like that off the other day," she said. "You knew it was gunfire," said a lifelong Easton resident, who's lived in the West Ward neighborhood for five years. "Gunfire is gunfire. I'm a gun owner. I know the sound of gunfire." Residents who spoke to lehighvalleylive.com alternated between frustrated and jaded. One woman said she doesn't even leap up inside her home when she hears shots. But she knows not to let her 10-year-old son walk to the corner store alone. One resident called for city officials to do more to offer West Ward children activities, while another resident called Wednesday night's shooting "definitely gang-related." It started with a fight in Centennial Park at South 12th and Ferry streets, he said. Wednesday night's incident followed a community water-gun battle that one resident said is the kind of thing that's needed to bring people together. One witness was smoking on a front porch and heard about six shots on Lehigh, before seeing a group of youth run west past South 12th Street on Lehigh Street. One of them then ran north on South 12th Street, as another followed. The witness heard another pop and saw a second youth with a gun firing shots into Centennial Park. "I was just in awe," she said. "Really, you're shooting toward a park?" Police ask anyone with information to call city detectives at 610-250-6634 or 610-250-6796 or the tip line at 610-250-6635. Callers can remain anonymous. Editor's note: This article has been changed from its original version to reflect new information from police. Reporter Tony Rhodin contributed to this report. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. : ; - CM ?; - The National Transport Authority (NTA) has indicated it may set aside funding for a major project in Newbridge. Kildare County Council senior engineer, John Coppinger told councillors the NTA wanted to concentrate on the area between Whitewater and Dunnes Stores because it had the most footfall. However, he said the council was trying to convince the national body to take an overview of the whole town, to include Eyre Street down towards the Liffey. We have received an indication of a grant from the NTA for Newbridge, he told the Kildare/Newbridge MD meeting last Wednesday June 15. He acknowledged the town had got very little from the NTA in the past. The NTA was set up to primarily look after pedestrians and cyclists so any project they undertake has to fulfil that brief. Councillors have previously been critical of the NTA for not undertaking projects in the mid/south of the county. There is a renewed call for Irish Rail to consider an early morning commuter service from Carrick-on-Shannon to Sligo. Leitrim, Roscommon and Sligo councillors are understood to be applying pressure on Irish Rail and Department of Transport to seriously consider providing a light rail early morning and evening commuter service from Carrick-on-Shannon to Sligo. With a large number of workers and students travelling between the two centres daily, as well as many more along the railway route, the push is gaining momentum. Regional politicians want a train that arrives in Sligo before 9am and leaves Sean MacDiarmada Station after 6pm. The objective that there should be a commuter rail service linking Sligo with other rail stations on the Sligo-Dublin line is part of Sligo's County Development Plan. The idea has been put forward previously in the form of Longford-Sligo commuter service. The issue was brought to the attention of Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Denis Naughten last week when he attended a public meeting in Boyle. The Minister took questions about broadband, industry for Boyle, Garda Station opening hours, the future of the Military Barracks, Boyle Courthouse, a hotel for Boyle, and the possibility of recovering heritage items for display in a museum-type environment in Boyle. He responded positively to the prospect of an early train to Sligo and said he would meet with Irish Rail and Minister for Transport, Shane Ross. The Department of Transport told the Leitrim Observer this proposal is a matter for the National Transport Authority. Carrick town based Councillor Finola Armstrong-McGuire, said she fully supports the proposal for an early commuter and return service to Carrick-on-Shannon, which would benefit a huge number of people in the area. Cllr Armstrong-McGuire said an early train would be used by third level students, patients with appointments in Sligo Hospital as well as workers and recreational users. The Fine Gael Councillor said the train is a lovely way to travel and this service would cut down on traffic and help the environment. She said the service would allow people to live in Carrick-on-Shannon and access jobs in Sligo. She commented she would love to see this proposal being seriously considered and will be seeking support from her colleagues in Leitrim County Council. Sligo Leitrim Fianna Fail Deputy Eamon Scanlon has apologised for a question regarding the number of Muslims who have applied for citizenship in Ireland, saying that he didnt mean to cause any offence. The Ballymote man came under fire this week over a question he submitted to Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald concerning the number of Muslims who have applied for Irish citizenship in the past three years. Deputy Scanlon said the question he asked had been misinterpreted and apologised for any offence caused. He stated, I put down a Parliamentary Question in relation to the number of Muslims who have applied for Irish citizenship as a constituent was inquiring about this issue. It has come to my attention that my parliamentary question has been misinterpreted and I wish to apologise for any offence caused which I can genuinely assure you was completely and utterly unintended. There are people of many different ethnic beliefs and nationalities in Ireland and they all make a tremendous contribution to Irish society. In response to the original question, Minister Fitzgerald said that a person applying for citizenship had no requirement to disclose their religion. The entitlement to Irish citizenship through naturalisation is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, the minister said. Section 15 of the Act provides that the Minister may, in her absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. These conditions require that the person applying for citizenship must be of full age and good character. They must also have been resident in Ireland for a certain number of years and have had promised to faithfully observe the laws of the State. Minister Fitzgerald concluded, In accordance with the provisions of the Act as outlined above, this information does not include any requirement for details of a persons religion and accordingly the information sought by (the) Deputy is not available. I can remember a time when the Liberals were the party representing the progressive voice of Rural Britain. Our voting base was here and Liberal MPs seemed to spend most of their time in the wild places of our islands. As the Liberal Democrats weve widened our appeal, but in doing this we seem to have lost our rural voice to some extent. Theres now a huge opportunity developing as this Tory government loses credibility on issues such as rural housing, broadband and transport. The Rural Services Network organises the Rural Conference which this year is in Cheltenham 6/7th September. If youre a Councillor, please ask your council if you can attend heres the link. It would be great to have a good representation from Lib Dems! * Cllr Peter Thornton is a member of the Federal Policy Committee and Deputy Leader of Cumbria County Council and lead member for Finance. He is also a South Lakeland District Councillor. No, my friend, my lodger. I dont feel better this evening than I did this morning, nor will I get over this in a couple of days. Heres why. I want to express, calmly but passionately, why I am so distraught about the result of the referendum. I voted remain, primarily because I was, and am, intellectually convinced it was by far the better option, but also because I am, in my very being, a European. I am not arguing in any way against the outcome of the referendum. I am confident that it was fairly conducted. However, I am not comfortable about being asked, or sometimes told, that thats the way democracy works and I just have to come to terms with it. Here are the reasons why. I have a French surname. I was born and raised in Jersey, to a Jersey father and English mother. I learnt to speak French quickly. All our school trips were to France, sport competitions were against neighbouring French teams and we had partnerships with French youth orchestras. I was adopted by a French family with whom I am still in contact. France is in my blood. In my twenties I moved to live there, in Angers. I bought a flat and had three of the happiest years of my life there. I was embraced by the French, got very involved in French life and have ongoing friendships with people there too. Looking back, Im not sure why I left, but I moved to the UK to do a second degree. Apart from my three years at music college aged 19 to 22, it was the first time Id lived in England. I also had two periods of two years in Madrid, Spain, one before France, the other after. I loved everything about moving around Europe in this way. I learnt new languages, discovered new cultures, began to understand alternative ways of looking at the world, and learnt, especially in Spain as I arrived barely ten years after Franco had died, a lot about dictators, wars, politicians and the hunger for power that can characterise governments. I began to appreciate how much the European Community had contributed to European and worldwide peace. I embraced EU values, rejoiced that the UK shared them too, and benefited from a huge amount that the European Union had to offer. Reciprocal tax agreements, reciprocal pension agreements, easy and inexpensive health care, freedom of movement across borders, a real sense of belonging to something that was politically worthwhile. I became European. Being European is built into my identity. It is in the warp and weft of my being. Jobs came easily in England and I just stayed on. It was part of the EU! For the past 20 years I have ensured I get to France at least three times a year, for roughly a week each time. Its a quick and easy trip, made all the easier by the straightforward border controls, despite the UK not being part of the Schengen agreement. I have frequently contemplated retiring in France and the nearer the time approaches, the more I have taken the possibility seriously. All that changed with the result of the referendum. Let me explain. First, my identity, so bound up with England being part of the EU, has been pulled from under my feet. England has rejected the EU. It goes right to the core of my being. I too feel rejected. Second, I realise how little I have in common with over 50% of my British countrymen and women. I feel a stranger, and unwelcome. Third, I find that this new England doesnt share values I cherish. Values of cooperation and collaboration across twenty five plus nations. Values of tolerance and welcome to refugees and strangers. And fourth, to my dismay, I find that this new, little England is bent on turning itself into a proper island once again, inward looking and with an apparent goal of reclaiming its former glory as an Empire. This is not a vision or a future I can embrace. Time to return to France, I think. But no, its not so easy. All of a sudden I find a second Berlin Wall has sprung up in the middle of the English Channel, overnight, just like the first one. Out is out the remaining EU countries insist. The status of UK nationals already living in the EU is precarious. They will lose all the reciprocal agreements. They will need to take out private health care insurance, if they can. If the exchange rate remains turbulent, or even if the pound settles at a weaker position than its been for the past 5 years in relation to the Euro, then I would get far less pension than Id anticipated. Its possible that EU countries will impose hefty financial requirements on UK citizens who apply to retire in them in the same way that Australia does. I will, of course, be perceived as a retiree, not moving to work and contribute to the economy. There will be many hoops to jump through, masses of paperwork, long queues and lengthy periods of uncertainty. I feel imprisoned in England. I dont want to live in a country that doesnt want to be part of the EU, yet I cant get back to live there. I dont want to live in a country that makes me feel unwelcome, which I feel has rejected me and the values I hold dear, yet this seems to be what Im facing. I dont want to be part of an Empire, or its modern day equivalent. The decision to leave the EU is a decision that will last my lifetime. It is not like a general election where in five years time the UK population has a chance to change its government. My identity, my very being, has been pulled from under me. It is no wonder that I am furious. It will take me, and millions like me, our lifetimes as the barest minimum to even begin to come to terms with it. * Alison Le Cornu is a new member of the Liberal Democrats from Oxford. She works in higher education. Almost every MP and politician from Tim Farron to Nigel Farrage has been saying that we must respect the result of the EU referendum last Thursday but there is no agreement on what the result means. The act setting up the referendum deliberately made the result advisory, leaving parliament and the government to take the final decision (unlike the AV referendum, which was binding). But what is the final decision? To articulate a vision of the UK outside the EU, something not articulated by the leave campaign during the referendum? To prepare an initial negotiating position? To allow Scotland a second independence referendum? To notify the European Council under article 50 of the EU treaties? We should respect the result of the referendum. But I believe this only means that the new prime minister, whoever they may be, has the obligation to clarify what our new relationship with the EU should look like (recognising our weak negotiating position). No more, no less! They should then go back to the electorate, through either a general election or second referendum, to gain a mandate for their proposed approach. This second plebiscite would then give a clear choice to the electorate and happen under very different conditions. Only after this vote should the new prime minister formally notify the remaining EU member states under article 50. If the proposals are rejected by the electorate, then the result should be explicitly treated as a vote to remain in the EU and treated as that in the election/referendum. The country is split. Almost half of people supported the status quo. Those who voted to leave did so for a wide variety of reasons. So the most likely negotiating position to command majority support of the electorate is close to our current EU membership. This could be remaining in the EEA, allowing free movement of people and continuing to contribute to the EU budget. In practice, something that looks similar to the EUs relationship with Norway at a similar price. However, two fundamental disadvantages remain with this position. Firstly, the UK will have little influence to affect EU legislation to which we would be bound (government by fax). Secondly, many voters who voted to leave the EU would feel betrayed by the government. Now is the time for us to redouble (or more) our efforts to communicate with those who feel alienated by the political process and get them to engage a second time. * Richard Robinson was the PPC in East Hampshire in May 2015 and currently divides his time between there and Vienna. THE newly-elected Mayor of the Metropolitan District of Limerick says memorabilia associated with the mayoral office should go on public display at the Jim Kemmy Municipal Museum when it opens at the former Franciscan Church on Henry Street. Cllr Michael Hourigan, who served as Mayor of Limerick in 2004/2005, says the mayoral office, which dates back to 1197, has a rich history which should be preserved for the people of Limerick. In this (museum) space I would like to see the swords, I would like to see the maces, I would like to see all the memorabilia from the mayors office because at the moment its hidden from the public and I dont want it hidden away any more, he said. It (mayoral office) dates back to 1197 and goes to 2014 and it is a very historical office with a rich history and I think that rich history should be preserved for the people of Limerick and the region, he added following his election at the weekend. SENATOR Paul Gavan has called for Educate Together (ET) to be selected as the patron body for the new school planned in Castletroy or Monaleen. The Department of Education is currently deliberating on which body should run the new 600-student facility, with ET facing competition from the catholic church and the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB). Sinn Feins Mr Gavan who was elected to the Upper House for the first time in April said: On principle, I dont think it is right to divide children on the basis of religion at the age of five. He says it is important greater choice be given to parents when selecting a secondary school for their children. Over 90% of our school system is still under the patronage of the Catholic church. This new school must be used as an opportunity to expand parental choice. Educate Together offer a progressive and inclusive alternative that will ensure that children of every religion and none can come together for their second level education, he said. Educate Together which runs two primary schools in the city has been set up as an independent non-governmental organisation guaranteeing equality of access to children regardless of social, cultural or religious background. Unlike church schools, or facilities run by other bodies, all decisions are made democratically, with the wishes of parents, students and teachers all carrying an equal weight. Mr Gavan said: I have been contacted by a number of parents across the Castletroy, Annacotty and Castleconnell areas who have pointed out that its high time that parents were offered a real choice when it comes to the ethos of the proposed new school. Parents in Cork, Dublin and Wicklow already have the option of selecting an Educate Together secondary school, its surely time that Limerick followed suit. The Castleconnell-based politician, a former Siptu representative, also said he would like to see the proposed Mungret secondary school be designated ET. THERE were emotional scenes at Shannon Airport at the weekend as 150 children arrived from Chernobyl to their new hosts for a month of respite care. Eight children will be staying with Limerick families for the month of July, as this year marks the 30th anniversary of the worlds worst nuclear disaster. Adi Roche, of Chernobyl Children International, who brought the children to Ireland, said even though three decades have passed Chernobyl is forever and she said now is the time to redouble efforts to commit to helping children born after the disaster but still feelings it effects. The summer rest and recuperation programme gives the children, who come from impoverished backgrounds and state-run institutions, a health boost and reprieve from the toxic environment and high levels of radiation to which they are exposed. It warms everyones heart here today to see the excitement on the childrens faces as they arrive safe and happy into Shannon, said Adi Roche, the voluntary chief executive officer of Chernobyl Children International. Our wonderful volunteers have opened their hearts and their homes to these children every summer, children who so desperately need our help. While the Chernobyl accident happened 30 years ago the consequences last forever. My heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who offer hope to live to the children who the world has largely forgotten. Radioactive contamination is still having an adverse effect on the lives and health of the children of the Chernobyl regions, she added. Host families from all over Ireland welcomed the children for their holiday, during which time radiation levels in the children drop by nearly 50 per cent and up to two years is added to their life expectancy. Since 1991, 25,000 children from Belarus and Western Russia have come to Ireland with CCI on this Rest and Recuperation programme. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. FOR some the miracle of Lourdes is the miracle of acceptance. Canon Donal McNamara, the local director of the pilgrimage to Lourdes for the past 25 years, described the recent pilgrimage as absolutely spectacular. It is, he said, a place of pilgrimage, peace and consolation. Lourdes draws you back year after year without a doubt. There is something very magnetic about it. Not many may have come home miraculously cured, but there is no doubt in the world that miracles do happen, and for some that is the miracle of acceptance, of our situation in life. Some people think they have a lot of worries and concerns and then they see people much worse off than themselves, he told the Limerick Leader. At one point the numbers travelling to Lourdes from Limerick reached a peak of 1,000 people, but that has fallen due to economic hardships, and also due to a fear of terrorism in recent years, especially at large gatherings, added Fr McNamara. The dates of the Limerick pilgrimage - June 21-26 - remain unchanged every year, and are cemented into locals calendars, a feature as fixed as the Limerick Novena. Numbers travelling to Lourdes rose again in 2014, after the pilgrimage in 2013 was cancelled due to severe flooding in the south west of France. Over 500 people from the diocese of Limerick travelled to the small French town in the foothills of the Pyrenees again this year, and packed into six hotels. Among those who travelled from Limerick included 100 young people, 120 voluntary workers, including student nurses at the University of Limerick, 60 assisted pilgrims, and 25 priests, as well as the Bishop of Limerick, Dr Brendan Leahy, and Bishop Emeritus, Donal Murray. With some five million people travelling to Lourdes each year, such is the operation that after Limerick, the Killaloe diocese go out, and then the Galway pilgrims from Shannon, all on a rolling schedule every year. Fr McNamara admits that each year he is worried that he may not be able to fill all the slots he has booked, and even though there were 40 cancellations this year for a variety of reasons, the places are always filled. From my perspective the numbers from Limerick are up. It went extremely well. Many people have said they will start saving already to come back, and some pilgrims want to come back as helpers next year. People receive many graces and blessings. Everybody gets something out of it. Bishop Leahy said for me Lourdes is a miracle every year we go there. I am overwhelmed not least by the incredible generosity of people who take a week off work and dedicate it to helping invalids, to move wheelchair bound pilgrims, to work from early morning and even do night duty. Its an extraordinary commitment. For the people who are sick and need that type of support, this is an incredible blessing and a huge illustration of the great nature there is in Limerick people. They get a real message that people really do care. Many also go on the pilgrimage who arent physically sick but may be carrying issues or burdens with them that are eased or lifted while they are out there. Theres a serene atmosphere and people just seem to get peace from that. The volunteers, too, seem to get an awful lot from the experience and some, no doubt, unravel their own burdens during the pilgrimage. There is an incredible engagement with young people, in particular. We have a waiting list of young people every year who want to go on the pilgrimage as volunteers and when you see the fulfilment they get out there, you understand why. Lourdes really is a special experience. Carmel Sheridan, from Blackwater, Ardnacrusha, who was chief handmaid in Lourdes, said she initially went there as a pilgrim with her aunt, a nun, before volunteering her own time, along with many others, from medical and nursing directors, to safeguarding officers, directors of music and the youth. I have always found it a wonderful place to be. I felt better for it, and its also a special time for oneself, said the former home economics teacher and director of the Adult Education Centre in Limerick, who is now retired. While her duties include the food orders for the assisted pilgrims, she along with others don the blue uniform and berets for the various masses, and the torchlit procession. See this weeks Limerick Leader, broadsheet editions, for full coverage and pictures. THE 11th annual River of Dreams quilt exhibition is currently raking place at Limerick School of Art and Design. The exhibition, which featured five big quilts and ten bespoke miniature quilt designs runs until Friday. Organised with the support of the Limerick Quilt Centre, the event has drawn designers from across the country. Organiser Amanda Kenny said: People can expect a very colourful exhibition of work primarily from Limerick women, but we also have lots of work from people all over Ireland, from Dublin, from the East and from Cork. There is a good representation of the quilting community in Ireland. The festival was opened by Helen ODonnell, of the Limerick City Business Association. Amanda also paid tribute to the Limerick School of Art and Design for playing host to the exhibition, and the Limerick Quilt Centre for their support. Maeve Meaney, the founder of the Limerick Quilt Centre, is largely responsible for the success and longevity of the showcase. For her, the satisfaction of creating your own quilt is unparalleled as far as she is concerned. The public can attend the showcase and be shown how a quilt is created. Jun 29, 2016, 11 PM By Michael Baadke The poet and novelist Czeslaw Milosz was born on June 30, 1911, in the village of Szetejnie (Seteniai) in what today is Lithuania. His parents were Polish and he was raised in Lithuania, living for a while in Vilnius during a period when the city was under Polish administration. He studied law after high school, and his earliest poems were printed in a university magazine in 1929. He published a collection of poetry in the 1930s, and lived in Warsaw during World War II, active in the underground resistance during the Nazi occupation. He continued to write poetry while working in Polands diplomatic service after the war, but by 1951 he sought and was granted political asylum in Paris. Milosz moved the United States in 1960, accepting a position as a professor of languages and literature at the University of California, Berkeley. He wrote his poems in Polish, and then translated them into English himself or working with others. His themes included the effect of world events upon the individual, and contemplations of personal faith. His well-known nonfiction book The Captive Mind (1953) is a criticism of totalitarianism and an examination of individuals drawn to Communist ideologies. Milosz became a U.S. citizen in 1970, and in 1980 he received the Nobel Prize for literature. He died in Krakow in 2004. He has been honored on several stamps from Lithuania and Poland. Poland honored him in a single-stamp souvenir sheet issued June 30, 2011, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his birth (Scott 4013). Jun 30, 2016, 10 AM The most obvious difference between the plate I and plate II 1-penny stamps is that stamps from the first plate have no clouds in the sky, and stamps from the second plate show clouds. Only one plate was used to print the 3-penny stamps. This stamp was printed in yellow green on soft yellowish wove paper. This unused 2-penny stamp was printed from plate II and shows the horizontal-lined background, date in the bale, shading in fan, and dot at the center of each corner star. Robert Claytons first essays were bicolored and printed with two lithographic plates. This is one of his red and blue lithographed samples submitted and turned down by the board. By Sergio Sismondo Limiting ourselves to national stamp issues that is, excluding local issues the Sydney Views stamps of New South Wales were arguably the first pictorial postage stamps of the world. The evidence is in the following list: 1840, May 6, Great Britain, Queen Victoria 1843, Aug. 1, Brazil, Numeral 1847, July 1, United States, Benjamin Franklin and George Washington 1847, Sept. 21, Mauritius, Queen Victoria 1849, Jan. 1, France, Goddess Ceres 1849, July 1, Belgium, King Leopold I 1849, Nov. 1, Bavaria, Numeral 1850, Jan. 1, New South Wales, Sydney Views 1850, July 1, British Guiana, Country Name and Denomination The colony of New South Wales was founded in January 1788. Eleven ships traveling together arrived from England, with 580 convicts, 250 soldiers and various seamen, mechanics and others on board.They disembarked at Port Jackson, and Capt. Arthur Phillip proclaimed the new colony. He subsequently became its first governor. It was not until 1825 that a proper postal service was created. Connect with Linns Stamp News: Sign up for our newsletter Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter An act titled An Act to Regulate the Postage of Letters in New South Wales established the basic parameters, including the appointment and remuneration of postmasters, and the basic tariff of 2 pence postage per letter. The New South Wales Post Office had been and continued to be under the authority of the colonial government, not under the Imperial Post Office in London, as was the case in other colonial outposts. Perhaps for this reason the principals of the post office showed considerable initiative and creativity. In November 1838, for example, nearly two years before the issue of the Mulready envelopes and letter sheets in Great Britain, the postmaster general of New South Wales, James Raymond, introduced prepaid envelopes for use in Sydney and environs. They were denominated 2d and bore an embossed replica of the seal of the colony, but with the words GENERAL POST OFFICE SYDNEY in the outer ring. Furthermore, to accommodate more customers, members of the general public were able to bring to the central post office other envelopes of their choice and obtain the official embossed seal, which, for all practical purposes, indicated postage paid. These envelopes are arguably the first issued postal stationery in the world. In the post office accounts of 1848, it is indicated that 15,225 prepaid envelopes were sold, yielding 63.8.9. It is also significant that the postage rate for a single-weight local letter had been reduced in 1841 from 2d to 1d. It is clear that the interests of the public, and not the least those of local businesses, were foremost in the legislative affairs governing the post offices regulations, rates, and routes. Legislation toward lowering rates and creating new and uniform rates of postage was passed on various occasions. Already in 1835, according to legislation titled An Act to Provide for the Conveyance and Postage of Letters, the first weight step for letters was raised from ounce to ounce, much to the advantage of the public. Newspapers were delivered free from postage, and that was a huge burden for the post office. In December 1848 another law passed, amending the previous, which, in order to increase the post offices revenue, reduced postage rates once again. Newspapers remained free from postage. Further reforms were passed in an act of Sept. 15, 1849, titled An Act to Establish An Uniform Rate of Postage and to Consolidate and Amend the Law for the Conveyance and Postage of Letters. Thus distance charges were eliminated, the abolition of various free-franking privileges acquired by special interests was signed into law, and various other matters. The success of postal reform in Great Britain was not lost on the citizens of remote New South Wales. It was decreed that local postage would still be 1d, internal letters would pay 2d, and the internal postage payable on ship letters would be 3d. In other words, postal reform had arrived in various legislative stages following each other in fairly rapid succession. Among other matters, the act of 1849 instructed the postmaster general to make all necessary preparations for the issuance of postage stamps, which, it was explained, would greatly enhance the efficiency of routines and procedures of the post office in numerous ways. Postmaster General James Raymond went to work on the new program with characteristic energy. The stamps Legislation had specified that stamps would go on sale on Jan. 1, 1850. With only two weeks advance on the delivery date, Raymond contacted all the known printers and engravers in Sydney and solicited their proposals and tenders. The following six replied: Charles Kay, Union Street, Sydney; Alonzo Grocott, Elizabeth Street, Sydney; Robert Clayton, Castlereagh Street, Sydney; William Harris, at Mr. Blunts, Bridge Street, Sydney; Hugh Carruthers, engraver, Sydney; and Henry C. Jervis, Pitt Street, Sydney. It is interesting to see this list. Kay, Clayton and Jervis, and a fourth person named John Carmichael who was not on this list, would eventually occupy the four major roles in the design, engraving and printing of the early postage stamps of New South Wales. Robert Clayton had his chance a few months earlier, having received a commission from the post office to produce the first postage stamps. He submitted some of his work, but it was disapproved by the board constituted by the colonial secretary for the purpose of overseeing the printing of postage stamps. Claytons first essays were bicolored, printed with two lithographic plates. Pictured nearby is one of his red and blue lithographed samples submitted and turned down by the board. Clayton was probably placed on the list in case his skills would be needed later on, and they were indeed needed; a few days later he would engrave the plate for the first stamp. Regarding Charles Kay, Raymond wrote to the colonial secretary: I am led to believe that the individual named [Charles Kay], whose offer is the lowest, is an eligible party to perform the work. On the following day the official offer was relayed to Kay: I have received the Sanction of His Excellency the Governor to accept your tender for printing and gumming the Postage Stamps required for this Department at the rate of three pounds fifteen shillings for every one thousand sheets containing 100 stamps each. An error had been made in mentioning 100 stamps in each sheet. Circumstances, mostly the very short period of time available, precluded the making of large plates. Instead, plates were of 25 stamps, each image engraved separately on the copper sheet. Given the time pressure, the work was subdivided among the engravers available, as detailed in an invoice of Dec. 22, 1849: One penny. Robert Clayton furnished a Copper Plate containing 25 engravings of the Penny Postage Stamp. His invoice for this is 10 pounds. Two pence. John Carmichael furnished a Copper Plate containing 25 engravings of the Twopenny Postage Stamp. His invoice for this is Twelve pounds and twelve shillings. Three pence. H. C. Jervis furnished a Copper Plate containing 25 engravings of the Threepenny Postage Stamp. His invoice for this is seven pounds. Charles Kay for providing articles required in printing Postage Stamps, Five pounds eleven shillings and ninepence. Amounting in all to Thirty-five pounds three shillings and ninepence. Kays composite invoice was uncontested by the auditor general and was paid in full on Jan. 3, 1850, after the delivery of the first batch of stamps. Amazing as it may be, between Dec. 18, 1849, and Jan. 31, 1850, a total of 174,088 stamps were printed by Kay, pressing small plates of 25 stamps to single sheets of paper. The design of these stamps is fascinating. It is derived from the seal of the colony. In the central vignette it shows allegorical Industry seated on a bale, and immigrant convicts being released from their fetters broken chains lie on the ground (not always visible). In the 1d design are oxen plowing, as if the immigrants were being pointed there; in the other two denomnations the oxen are not present. In the background is a hill with trees (not always present), with much housing and a church steeple. Beyond the hill is the ocean, with a two-mast sailing ship. Industry holds a staff (some say whip) in her right hand, and at her feet are a pick and shovel, symbolic of work and of the mining industry. The bale is bundled and tied across, separating four quarters, which sometimes have legible inscriptions, including dates (i.e., 1788 in the 1d stamp). Below the vignette is the Latin inscription SIC FORTIS ETRURIA CREVIT, which in translation means: Thus mighty Etruria grew. The vignette is bounded by a double ring, and between the rings is the inscription SIGILLUM. NOV. CAMB. AUST., which, in abbreviated form, is Latin for Seal of New Cambria (Wales) Australia. This was not a simple heraldic allegory; it was a miniature picture that told a huge story. It was the story of a new and hopeful beginning. The 1d stamp Copper plates wear fast. After the initial printings, which continued to meet requirements for six months, engravers decided it was time to make new plates. Thus in July-August 1850 a re-engraved plate of the 1d was made by Henry C. Jervis. The most obvious difference between plate I and plate II stamps is that stamps from the first plate have no clouds in the sky, and stamps from the second plate show clouds. The 1d stamps shown are examples of with clouds and without clouds stamps. Clayton was responsible for the first plate. Why he did not produce the next plate is not known. The 2d stamp Of all the Sydney Views, the finest and most perfect engraving was that by John Carmichael of the first plate of the 2d stamp. I have had examples from early impressions that defy description; they can be simply stunning. Of course, the 2d stamp was the most utilized as it paid the rate for a single-weight internal letter. More stamps were printed, and work on re-engraving the plates was undertaken four times. There were five plates, the last four being re-engravings of the first. In plate I, by Carmichael, the background lines are vertical. In plate II, re-engraved by Jervis, the background lines are horizontal, and the bale is dated. In plate III, once again re-engraved by Jervis, the bale is single-lined, not dated. In plate IV, re-engraved a third time by Jervis, the bale is double-lined, and there is a circle in the center of each star. In plate V, re-engraved a fourth time by Jervis, there is a pearl at the bottom of the fan. The unused 2d stamp pictured here was printed from plate II and shows the horizontal-lined background, date in the bale, shading in fan, and dot at the center of each corner star. The 3d stamp The printing of the 3d Sydney Views stamps required only one plate. There are four colors listed in the catalogs, and three distinct types of paper. Shown nearby is a 3d stamp in yellow green on soft yellowish wove paper. On average, a plate produced 206,500 stamps (8,260 impressions) before it had to be replaced. Between Dec. 18, 1849, and the last runs, based on almost complete records kept and some estimates to fill the few gaps, the number of stamps printed was: 1d, two plates, 637,800; 2d, five plates, 725,736; 3d, one plate, 288,600. The total for the three denominations was 1,652,136. It remains to be said that considering there were eight plates of 25 distinguishable stamps in each, there are 200 different stamps to amuse the persistent and avid collector. With a finer classification, which takes into account types of paper, principal shades and principal states of wear of the various plates, there are 1,125 different stamps needed to form a complete collection. Very deep pockets and a lifetime of searching may not be enough. In a second installment of this account, I will describe some of the most interesting varieties, the papers, the colors of the Sydney Views, and the all-important cancellations found on these magnificent stamps, the first to appear in the Australian theater. More Unveling Classic Stamps columns: Postal reform in France met with intense opposition France 1849: The first stamp issue, Part II The history behind British Guianas Cottonreels We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. Mount Vesuvius, on the west coast of Italy, is the only active volcano on mainland Europe. It is best known because of the eruption in A.D. 79 that destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, but Vesuvius has erupted more than 50 times. Mount Vesuvius facts Vesuvius in 2013 was 4,203 feet (1,281 meters) tall. After each eruption, the size of the cone changes, according to Encyclopedia Britannica. The volcano also has a semicircular ridge called Mount Somma that rises to 3,714 feet (1,132 m). The valley between the cone and Mount Somma is called Valle del Gigante or Giant's Valley. Mount Vesuvius is considered to be one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world because of its proximity to the city of Naples and the surrounding towns on the nearby slopes. The volcano is classed as a complex stratovolcano because its eruptions typically involve explosive eruptions as well as pyroclastic flows. A pyroclastic flow is a high-density mix of hot lava blocks, pumice, ash and volcanic gas, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Vesuvius and other Italian volcanoes, such as Campi Flegrei and Stromboli, are part of the Campanian volcanic arc. The Campanian arc sits on a tectonic boundary where the African plate is being subducted beneath the Eurasian plate. Under Vesuvius, scientists have detected a tear in the African plate. This "slab window" allows heat from the Earth's mantle layer to melt the rock of the African plate building up pressure that causes violent explosive eruptions. In the past, Mount Vesuvius has had a roughly 20-year eruption cycle, but the last serious eruption was in 1944. Pompeii Mount Vesuvius destroyed the city of Pompeii, a city south of Rome, in A.D. 79 in about 25 hours, according to History. Because the city was buried so quickly by volcanic ash, the site is a well-preserved snapshot of life in a Roman city. There is also a detailed account of the disaster recorded by Pliny the Younger, who interviewed survivors and recorded events in a letter to his friend Tacitus. [Related: Pompeii 'Wall Posts' Reveal Ancient Social Networks] Ruins at Herculaneum (opens in new tab) Shutterstock (opens in new tab) ) (Image credit: deepblue-photographer Pompeii was established in 600 B.C. and was slowly recovering from a major earthquake that rocked the city in February of A.D. 62. The shallow quake, originating beneath Mount Vesuvius, had caused major damage to the springs and piping that provided the city's water. Reconstruction was being carried out on several temples and public buildings. Seneca, a historian, recorded that the quakes lasted for several days and also heavily damaged the town of Herculaneum and did minor damage to the city of Naples before subsiding. The major quake was followed by several minor shakes throughout the following years. [Image Gallery: Pompeii's Toilets] Because seismic activity was so common in the area, citizens paid little attention in early August of 79 when several quakes shook the earth beneath Herculaneum and Pompeii. People were unprepared for the explosion that took place shortly after noon on the 24th of August. Around 2,000 residents survived the first blast. Bodies preserved in ash at Pompeii. (opens in new tab) Shutterstock (opens in new tab) ) (Image credit: Alessandro Colle Pliny the Elder, a Roman author, described the massive debris cloud. "It resembled a (Mediterranean) pine more than any other tree. Like a very high tree the cloud went high and expanded in different branches sometimes white, sometimes dark and stained by the sustained sand and ashes." In Pompeii, ash blocked the sun by 1 p.m. and the people tried to clear heavy ash from rooftops as it fell at a rate of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) an hour. [Image Gallery: Preserved Pompeii Photos Reveal City in Ash] Shortly after midnight, a wall of volcanic mud engulfed the town of Herculaneum, obliterating the town as its citizens fled toward Pompeii. About 6:30 a.m. on the following morning, a glowing cloud of volcanic gases and debris rolled down Vesuvius' slopes and enveloped the city of Pompeii. Most victims died instantly as the superheated air burned their lungs and contracted their muscles, leaving the bodies in a semi-curled position to be quickly buried in ash and thus preserved in detail for hundreds of years. Far away in Misenum, approximately 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Pompeii, Pliny the Younger, the 18-year-old nephew of Pliny the Elder, and his mother joined other refugees escaping the earthquakes rocking their city. They observed, "the sea retreating as if pushed by the earthquakes." This was probably caused by a tsunami at the climax of the eruption, which gives us the time frame for historical record. Pliny writes of "black and horrible clouds, broken by sinuous shapes of flaming wind." He describes people wheezing and gasping because of that wind; the same wind that doomed the people of Pompeii. It is believed that around 30,000 people died from the eruption of Vesuvius in 79. WWII eruption On March 17, 1944, a two-week-long eruption began with lava from the summit of Mount Vesuvius. In an article by Life Magazine, Giuseppe Imbo, director of the Mt. Vesuvius Observatory, is quoted as saying, "A marvelous thing, my Vesuvius. It covers land with precious ash that makes the earth fertile and grapes grow, and wine. That's why, after every eruption, people rebuild their homes on the slopes of the volcano. That is why they call the slopes of Vesuvius the compania felix the happy land." During the eruption, soldiers and airmen of the 340th Bomber Group were stationed at the Pompeii Airfield just a few miles from the base of the volcano. Diaries record the awesome sights and sounds they witnessed in this latest major eruption. Guards wore leather jackets and "steel pot" helmets to protect themselves from rains of hot ash and small rocks. Tents collapsed or caught fire when hot cinders were blown over them. Sgt. Robert F. McRae wrote in his diary on March 20, 1944, according to the American Geosciences Institute, "As I sit in my tent I can hear at four- to 10-second intervals the loud rumbling of the volcano on the third day of its present eruption. The noise is like that of bowling balls slapping into the pins on a giant bowling alley. To look above the mountain tonight, one would think that the world was on fire. The thickly clouded sky glows like that above a huge forest fire. Glowing brighter as new spouts of flame and lava are spewn from the crater. As the clouds pass from across the top of the mountain, the flame and lava can be seen shooting high into the sky to spill over the sides and run in red streams down the slopes. ... Today it is estimated that a path of molten lava 1 mile long, half a mile wide, and 8 feet deep is rolling down the mountain. Towns on the slopes are preparing to evacuate. Our location is, apparently, safe. At any rate no one here, civilian or Army authorities, seems too much worried. Lava has not started to flow down this side of the mountain as yet but is flowing on the other side toward Naples." On March 22, they were forced to evacuate, leaving behind 88 Allied aircraft. After the volcano subsided, they returned on the 30th to find the planes were a total loss. Engines were clogged by ash, control panels were useless tangles of fused wire, canopies had holes from flying rock or were etched to opacity by wind driven ash. One airman of the 489th Bomber Squadron complained in his diary when Axis Sally broadcast a radio show dedicated to the "survivors" of the Vesuvius eruption (actually the most severe human casualty was a wrist sprained during the evacuation). She told all of Europe that "Colonel Vesuvius" had destroyed all of them. The diarist was justifiably proud of the work he did with his fellows in recovery. By April 15, the planes had been replaced and the 340th Bomber Group was back to full strength and ready to fly missions from their new base. Though no soldiers were killed, 26 Italian civilians died and nearly 12,000 were displaced by the 1944 eruption, according to the American Geosciences Institute. Current status Since 1944, there have been hundreds of minor earthquakes in the region around Mount Vesuvius. The most serious earthquake rocked Naples in October 1999. The magnitude-3.6 quake was felt as far as 15 miles (24 km) from the base of the volcano and was of the same magnitude as a quake that occurred 17 years prior to the last truly major explosion that devastated Naples in 1631. In 2016, excavations on the outskirts of Pompeii revealed more victims of the volcanic eruption. Archaeologists discovered the remains of four people, including one teenage girl, in the ruins of a shop, according to a statement from the Soprintendenza Pompei, the Italian authority in charge of managing the ancient site. Additional reporting by Alina Bradford, Live Science contributor Additional resources A skull bone of the Buddha was found inside this gold casket, which was stored in a silver casket within the stupa model, found in a crypt beneath a Buddhist temple. Archaeologists have discovered what may be a skull bone from the revered Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. The bone was hidden inside a model of a stupa, or a Buddhist shrine used for meditation. The research team found the 1,000-year-old model within a stone chest in a crypt beneath a Buddhist temple in Nanjing, China. Inside the stupa model archaeologists found the remains of Buddhist saints, including a parietal (skull) bone that inscriptions say belonged to the Buddha himself. The model is made of sandalwood, silver and gold, and is covered with gemstones made of crystal, glass, agate and lapis lazuli, a team of archaeologists reported in an article published in the journal Chinese Cultural Relics. Inscriptions engraved on the stone chest that the model was found in say that it was constructed during the reign of Emperor Zhenzong (A.D. 997-1022), during the Song Dynasty. Also inscribed on the stupa are the names of people who donated money and material to build the model, as well as some of the people who constructed the model. [See Photos of the Model Stupa Holding Buddha Remains] While the inscriptions say that the skull bone belongs to the Buddha, it is unknown whether it really does come from him. In the journal article, archaeologists didn't speculate on how likely it is. The bone is being treated with great respect and has been interred in the modern-day Qixia Temple by Buddhist monks. Stone chest inscription This model of a stupa, which is used for meditation, was discovered beneath Grand Bao'en Temple in Nanjing, China. The 1,000-year-old stupa is made of sandalwood, silver and gold. (Image credit: Photo courtesy of Chinese Cultural Relics) Discovered beneath the Grand Bao'en Temple, the stupa model which is 117 centimeters tall and 45 cm wide (nearly 4 feet by 1.5 feet) was stored within an iron box, which, in turn, was stored within a stone chest. An inscription found within the stone chest was written by a man named Deming about 1,000 years ago, saying that he is "the Master of Perfect Enlightenment, Abbot of Chengtian Monastery [and] the Holder of the Purple Robe" (as translated by researchers in the journal article). He tells the story of how the Buddha's parietal bone came to China. [Photos: 1,700-Year-Old Buddhist Sculptures Found in Shrine] Deming wrote that after the Buddha "entered parinirvana" (a final death that breaks the cycle of death and rebirth), that his body "was cremated near the Hirannavati River" in India. The man who ruled India at the time, King Ashoka (reign 268-232 B.C.), decided to preserve the Buddha's remains, which he "divided into a total of 84,000 shares," Deming wrote. "Our land of China received 19 of them," including the parietal bone, he added. The parietal bone was kept in a temple that was destroyed about 1,400 years ago during a series of wars, Deming wrote. "The foundation ruins were scattered in the weeds," Deming wrote. "In this time of turbulence, did no one care for Buddhist affairs?" Emperor Zhenzong agreed to rebuild the temple and have the Buddha's parietal bone, and the remains of other Buddhist saints, buried in an underground crypt at the temple, according to Deming's inscriptions. They were interred on July 21, 1011 A.D., in "a most solemn and elaborate burial ceremony," Deming wrote. Deming praised the emperor for rebuilding the temple and burying the Buddha's remains, wishing the emperor a long life, loyal ministers and numerous grandchildren: "May the Heir Apparent and the imperial princes be blessed and prosperous with 10,000 offspring; may Civil and Military Ministers of the Court be loyal and patriotic; may the three armed forces and citizens enjoy a happy and peaceful time " Buddha burial The parietal bone of the Buddha was buried within an inner casket made of gold, which, in turn, was placed in an outer casket made of silver, according to the archaeologists. The silver casket was then placed inside the model of the stupa. The gold and silver caskets were decorated with images of lotus patterns, phoenix birds and gods guarding the caskets with swords. The outer casket also has images of spirits called apsaras that are shown playing musical instruments. The parietal bone of the Buddha was placed within the gold inner casket along with three crystal bottles and a silver box, all of which contain the remains of other Buddhist saints. Engraved on the outside of the model are several images of the Buddha, along with scenes depicting stories from the Buddha's life, from his birth to the point when he reached "parinirvana," a death from which the Buddha wasn't reborn something that freed him from a cycle of death and rebirth, according to the Buddhist religion. Impact in China A large team of archaeologists from the Nanjing Municipal Institute of Archaeology excavated the crypt between 2007 and 2010; they were supported by experts from other institutions in China. Although the excavations received little coverage by Western media outlets, they were covered extensively in China. Chinese media outlets say that, after the parietal bone of the Buddha was removed, Buddhist monks interred the bone and the remains of the other Buddhist saints in Qixia Temple, a Buddhist temple used today. The Buddha's parietal bone and other artifacts from the excavation were later displayed in Hong Kong and Macao. When the bone traveled to Macao in 2012, the media outlet Xinhua reported that "tens of thousands of Buddhist devotees will pay homage to the sacred relic," and that "more than 140,000 tickets have been sold out by now, according to the [event organizer]." An article detailing the discoveries was published in Chinese in 2015 in the journal Wenwu, before being translated and published in Chinese Cultural Relics. Original article on Live Science. The 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington state was one of the largest eruptions to occur in the U.S. since the nation was founded. The 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens may have been signaled by crystals moving in the magma beneath the Washington state volcano, years before it blew its top, scientists have found. Mount St. Helens' eruption on May 18, 1980, was one of the most destructive volcanic eruptions in U.S. history. With an eruption column the cloud of volcanic ash emitted during an explosive eruption that measured 80,000 feet (24 kilometers) and that deposited ash in 11 states, the eruption caused damages estimated to cost $1.1 billion, according to the International Trade Commission. The eruption killed more than 57 people and destroyed more than 200 homes, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The new findings could help predict when the volcano will blow again and could be applied to other volcanoes, the researchers said, adding that their method will work on only some volcanoes. [The 11 Biggest Volcanic Eruptions in History] Reading crystals For the new research, Jon Blundy, a professor of earth sciences at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, and his colleagues analyzed crystals that formed in the magma under Mount St. Helens. This magma shot from the volcano as lava in 1980. As magma rises toward the surface, some of it solidifies into crystals due to cooling and a process called decompression in which lowered pressure causes water to separate from the solids. The crystals in erupted volcanic rocks have concentric layers, like rings of a tree, Blundy said. Each layer has a distinct chemical composition reflective of the conditions in which its crystals grew. "In other words, they can show where they were formed and the pressure and temperature conditions at the time of formation," Blundy said in a statement. "If you can read the record preserved in the zoned crystals, you can learn where and when molten magma has moved under the volcano. Rapid upwards movement of magma at depths of several kilometers is a pretty good indication that something significant is happening." The researchers found that in the three years preceding the 1980 eruption, significant movement of magma under Mount St. Helens carried crystals from 7.5 miles (12 km) below the volcano to a depth of around 2.5 miles (4 km). Predicting eruptions In order to "read" magma crystals, researchers must have a lot of information about a volcano, which is surely the case for Mount St. Helens. Since its eruption, this mountain has become one of the most studied volcanoes in the world, Blundy said. Scientists know, from high-temperature experiments, how Mount St. Helens' crystal composition responds to changes in pressure and temperature. This isn't as clear at other, less well-studied volcanoes, Blundy told Live Science. The researchers said they hope to apply the monitoring of crystal records to other well-studied volcanoes, such as Uturuncu in Bolivia, Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines and Bezymianny in Russia. In addition, the scientists will look into how crystal monitoring could be applied to prediction models and potential warning systems. The research was presented at the Goldschmidt Conference on geochemistry on June 30 in Yokohama, Japan, and has yet to be published in a scientific journal. Original article on Live Science. The African grey parrot Igor (not the bird involved in the murder case) has a scissor beak and a deformed spine, but is absolutely charming, said Ann Brooks, CEO and founder of Phoenix Landing. Bird scientists are skeptical whether Bud, an African grey parrot who allegedly witnessed a murder in 2015 in Michigan, can give reliable testimony or spoken evidence at a court trial. That's not because African grey parrots aren't intelligent the birds can be trained to do simple math, speak with enormous vocabularies and demonstrate impressive inferential reasoning. Rather, it's unclear whether Bud is repeating a conversation from the murder itself, or whether he heard it on TV, the radio or from another time in his life, experts told Live Science. "We don't know where that conversation could have come from," said Erin Colbert-White, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington, who works with African grey parrots. [Pretty Bird: Images of a Clever Parrot] Parrot conversation The murder case, which is gaining nationwide attention, involves Martin Duram, 45, who was found dead from five gunshot wounds in May 2015. His wife, Glenna Duram, 48, is a suspect, according to the Detroit Free Press. The Duram family owned Bud at the time of the murder, but Martin Duram's ex-wife, Christine Keller, now cares for the parrot. Several weeks after Duram died, Keller heard Bud speaking in both male and female voices as if having a conversation, the Free Press reported. The parrot, in a man's voice, said "Get out," followed by the woman's voice saying, "Where will I go?" The man's voice answered, "Don't f---ing shoot," the Free Press reported. Keller alerted the case's prosecuting attorney, who said he wasn't aware of a precedent allowing a parrot into a trial, but would look into whether Bud could serve as admissible evidence, the Free Press reported. Star witness? Bud undoubtedly has a way with words, but experts doubt that this feathered chatterbox can give reliable testimony or offer evidence in a trial. African grey parrots are intelligent birds. (Image credit: Carol Guzy Phoenix Landing Foundation) "Basically, the issue is whether a parrot can learn a phrase that it has heard only once," said Irene Pepperberg, a research associate in the department of psychology at Harvard University, and author of "Alex & Me: How a Scientist and a Parrot Discovered a Hidden World of Animal Intelligence and Formed a Deep Bond in the Process" (Collins Publishers, 2008). "The general answer is 'no,' because the bird needs considerable practice to reproduce the sounds of English speech," Pepperberg told Live Science in an email. "A bird might learn a single word quickly, but only if it already has the specific sounds in its repertoire." For instance, Alex, also an African grey parrot, learned the word "carrot" after one training session, but he already knew the words "key" and "parrot," which likely made it easier to learn the new word, she said. Moreover, whole conversations are even harder to learn after hearing them just once, Pepperberg said. "The only evidence that a bird could learn a phrase heard once, under stress, comes from [the deceased] Nobel Laureate Konrad Lorenz," she said. "His cockatoo was horridly frightened by a chimney sweep, and afterward would call out 'The sweep is coming!' whenever it saw someone entirely in black." It's possible, "but quite unlikely" that Bud overheard and repeated that conversation from the murder, Pepperberg said. [The 5 Smartest Non-Primates on the Planet] Flashbulb memory In humans, a traumatic event, such as the Kennedy assassination or 9/11, can make a memory stronger. Some experts call this "flashbulb memory," Colbert-White said. It's unclear whether parrots have flashbulb memory, but if they do, perhaps Bud distinctly remembered that conversation because it happened right before the murder, she said. Furthermore, the Free Press reported that it took the bird several weeks before he voiced that conversation, "which is actually on par with parrots bringing in a new vocalization into their repertoire," Colbert-White said. However, the conversation's origin may remain a mystery, she said. This isn't the first time a parrot has been involved in solving a murder case. On Christmas Eve in 2001, a man was beaten and killed in Dallas. His cockatoo (a type of parrot) attacked the assailant, drawing blood, which ended up on the wall. A DNA analysis, among other clues in the case, helped convict the killer, one of the Texas man's former employees at his pool company, according to BBC News. Original article on Live Science. Dolmen da Orca, one of a cluster of stone tombs in Carregal do Sal, Portugal, may have helped people track star movements thousands of years ago. Thousands of years ago, stone constructions built as tombs may have served another purpose one with an unexpected celestial connection. Astronomers suggest these ancient structures may have been used for observing the night sky and tracking the movements of the stars. Researchers are investigating whether so-called "megalithic" tombs tombs hewn from ancient stone provided optical opportunities for humanity's earliest astronomers, acting as "telescopes" without lenses. And the scientists are looking especially closely at passage graves, a type of tomb with a large chamber accessed through a long and narrow entry tunnel. This type of structure could have greatly enhanced views of faint stars as they rose on the dawn horizon. [Image Gallery: World's Oldest Astrologer's Board] The findings were presented June 29 at the Royal Astronomical Society's (RAS) National Astronomy Meeting 2016 in Nottingham, in the United Kingdom. They were presented in a special session addressing how cultures and societies have been shaped by studying the sky, and vice versa. The orientation of some passage graves is known to align with the positions of certain stars, according to study presenter Fabio Silva, a lecturer in cultural astronomy at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David in the United Kingdom. The view towards the east from the Carregal do Sal megalithic cluster, at dawn at the end of April around 4000 B.C., as reconstructed using a Digital Elevation Model and Stellarium. (Image credit: F. Silva) Silva said in a statement that the Seven-Stone Antas, a 6,000-year-old monolithic cluster in central Portugal, was constructed so that the entrance might align with the star Aldebaran, "the brightest star in the constellation of Taurus." He added that ancient societies would have found it vital to detect stars during twilight hours in order to accurately time the objects' first appearances at specific times of the year. This may have informed people's decisions about seasonal migrations to summer hunting grounds, Silva said. Light at the end of the tunnel Passage graves are thought to be sacred spaces in ancient societies, said Daniel Brown, a senior lecturer in astronomy at Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom and organizer of the RAS session. Brown told Live Science in an email that most passage graves in Western Europe date from 6000 B.C. to 2000 B.C. and they were widespread along the Atlantic coast of Europe. "Different regions had their own traditions and architectural styles, but they are all variations on a theme," Brown said. "In most circumstances, the evidence suggests the inner megalithic chamber(s) were used for burials or bone deposition, whereas outer courts might have been used for more communal practices possibly related to the funerary rites." In addition to housing the deceased, the tombs' inner chambers would sometimes host living individuals, who would spend the night inside the structures' walls as part of a rite of passage, the study presenters said. The only natural light would filter from the opening at the far end of the tomb's entry tunnel, and the researchers suggested that this setup would have allowed a person within the chamber to observe faint stars in the night sky that might not be visible to someone standing outside. Tombs thus enabled stargazing thousands of years before the first telescopes were invented. "Enhanced observing" "The entrance creates an aperture as large as 10 degrees through which your naked-eye view is restricted," Brown explained. "This would allow enhanced observing, especially in the twilight hours of dusk and dawn." View of the Dolmen da Orca passage and entrance while standing within the tomb's chamber, looking toward the "window of visibility." (Image credit: F. Silva) According to Brown, the long and narrow entryway focused the viewers on a narrow strip of the horizon, in which faint stars could be rising at the same time that the sun rose or set. A restricted field of view would also limit the amount of light that could wash out the sky and make faint stars hard to see. And after spending the night inside the tomb, a person's eyes would become used to lower light levels, and therefore better able to glimpse a dimmer star, Brown added. Investigating the ways that early cultures used cosmology offers insights into how they understood the world around them, "as well as their place in it," Brown told Live Science. "It also gives us an insight that astronomy as such did not exist as a discipline or secret caste. Astronomy was part of a holistic experience of life and environment and sky," he added. "And it also was shaping their societies." Original article on Live Science. More than 30 years after scientists first spotted a hole in the atmosphere's protective ozone layer over the South Pole, they are seeing the "first fingerprints of healing," researchers reported today (June 30). Measurements of the ozone hole taken in September revealed the breach has shrunk by more than 1.5 million square miles (4 million square kilometers) about half the area of the contiguous United States since 2000. The researchers attributed the ozone's recovery to the continuing decline of atmospheric chlorine originating from chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). These chemical compounds, once commonly used in aerosols, dry cleaning and refrigerators, were banned when nations around the world signed the Montreal Protocol in 1987 in an effort to repair the ozone hole. [Image Gallery: Life at the South Pole] "We can now be confident that the things we've done have put the planet on a path to heal," lead author Susan Solomon, an atmospheric chemist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), said in a statement. "We got rid of them [CFCs], and now we're seeing the planet respond." Seasonal change The ozone layer, which extends from 2 to 19 miles (20 to 30 km) above Earth's surface, protects the planet from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Thinning of ozone, which is a molecule made up of three oxygen atoms, can occur due to exposure to certain chemicals, like CFCs. The ozone hole, a region of thinned ozone, was discovered in 2000, when scientists noticed that the total ozone above Antarctica in October was dropping. From then on, ozone depletion was typically tracked using October measurements. That's because the ozone hole varies seasonally, as specific conditions are needed for chlorine to eat away at the molecule, Diane Ivy, a research scientist at MIT and co-author on the new study, explained to Live Science in an email. Chlorine interacts with ozone in this destructive way only if light is present and the atmosphere is cold enough for polar stratospheric clouds to form. The clouds are the surfaces which these chlorine reactions can occur. Ozone depletion therefore starts each year in late August, as Antarctica emerges from winter, with the hole fully formed by early October. For their research, the scientists thought a clearer picture of chlorine's effects on the ozone would be seen by monitoring ozone levels in September. "I think people, myself included, had been too focused on October, because that's when the ozone hole is enormous, in its full glory," Solomon said. "But October is also subject to the slings and arrows of other things that vary, like slight changes in meteorology. September is a better time to look, because chlorine chemistry is firmly in control of the rate at which the hole forms at that time of year." Slow to heal There is still a long road to recovery for the ozone hole, the researchers said. The molecules that deplete ozone have very long life spans, and the study scientists estimate it will still be decades before complete recovery. "We won't get back to pre-ozone-hole conditions for another 40-some years," study co-author Douglas Kinnison, a scientist at the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Colorado, told Live Science. But scientists have seen healing of the ozone, which Ivy defined as "an identifiable increase in ozone that is linked to reduced amounts of ozone-depleting substances." However, the hole itself may fluctuate each year in the healing process, due, in part, to volcanic activity. Eruptions emit sulfur dioxide, which can form aerosols in the stratosphere, allowing more ozone depletion to occur. For instance, in 2015 the ozone hole neared a record-breaking size. Due to the April 2015 eruption of Calbuco in Chile, it was "a whopper of an ozone hole" that year, Kinnison said. "So we probably will see a much less severe ozone hole [this year]," he said. "But we'll have to wait and see." Original article on Live Science. If you do not have a current print subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel, but want to view unlimited articles for the month, please choose this option. Local News, Crime, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 Marine Patrol units throughout Suffolk County did a security sweep of approximately 1000 miles of Suffolks coastline over this past weekend. Operation S.H.I.E.L.D., which began in 2009, has conducted random operations throughout the years for the purposes of identifying and disrupting the ability of terrorists, traffickers, immigration law violators to enter the United States and to also educate boaters to be vigilant and report suspicious activity. Suffolk County, NY - June 28, 2016 - Marine Patrol units throughout Suffolk County did a security sweep of approximately 1000 miles of Suffolks coastline over this past weekend. This continuous initiative, known as Operation S.H.I.E.L.D. (Suffolk Homeland Security Interdiction and Education for Long Island Defense) is coordinated by the Suffolk County Sheriffs Office and operates in conjunction with the N.Y.S. Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Office of Counter Terrorism, United States Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, local police, bay constables and members of the East End Marine Task Force. Members of the marine patrols, some with border protection officers embedded with them, checked over 280 marinas, in 49 bodies of water, and nearly 1,000 miles of shoreline, which surround the 10 townships and 20 villages having navigable waters in Suffolk County. This past weekend Task Force officers checked over 276 vessels, locating and checking 31 foreign flagged vessels, citing 6 federal law violations and 118 other law violations including registration and equipment violations. Hazmat officers detected 2 radiation sources, which were located and mitigated as safe. Operation S.H.I.E.L.D., which began in 2009, has conducted random operations throughout the years for the purposes of identifying and disrupting the ability of terrorists, traffickers, immigration law violators to enter the United States and to also educate boaters to be vigilant and report suspicious activity. To date, Op-SHIELD officers have checked over 3,818 vessels including 527 foreign flagged vessels, have cited 89 federal customs law violations and 1185 other law violations and located and mitigated were 31 hazmat sources. A total of 17 individuals have been arrested, 8 for illegally possessing weapons aboard vessels, 5 for Boating While Intoxicated, 2 for SCUBA diving in a government restricted area, 1 for Criminal Trespass and 1 for drug possession. Informational handouts and posters were distributed during the operation to the public will assist law enforcement agencies with gathering information from the public in the future. The public is reminded, IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING. Future SHIELD operations are planned for random upcoming dates throughout the year. Nature & Weather, Local News, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) are renewing their call to protect Plum Island. Southold, NY - June 28, 2016 - U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Chris Murphy (D-CT) are renewing their call to protect Plum Island in the wake of a report released by the Department of Homeland Security. Due to its partial use as a federal research facility, most of the 840-acre island has remained an undeveloped sanctuary for wildlife. However, Congress voted in 2008 to close the research facility, move its work to Kansas, and sell the island to the highest bidder. The report, which the Senators required through legislation earlier this year, analyzes the best alternatives for conserving Plum Islands natural and historic resources. This report is completely conclusive that Plum Island must be preserved and any commercial sale would mean a foolhardy sacrifice of this priceless treasure, Blumenthal said. The facts are convincing that a sale would be an enormous environmental and ecological lossand would face significant legal hurdles. A sale is no longer needed to help pay for the new replacement facility in Kansas. We will redouble our efforts to repeal the required sale of Plum Island to private interests and stop any additional federal funds for a doomed sales process. It would be a mistake and lost opportunity to rip apart Plum Islands unique 840-acre environmental setting and destroy the habitat of the endangered species that live there, said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer In light of the Department of Homeland Securitys newly released report on Plum Island, my colleagues and I intend to fight even harder to prevent Plum Island from being sold to a private developer and do everything possible to preserve its unique environment and wildlife habitat. Plum Island is an important habitat for migratory birds and endangered species and should continue to be owned by the public, said Senator Gillibrand. I strongly support keeping Plum Island as a federal property and protecting it as a wildlife refuge, which is why I am an original cosponsor of Senator Blumenthal's bill and have been working with my colleagues for years to prevent the sale of Plum Island. This report underscores why we must pass legislation to reverse the required sale before Plum Island is auctioned off to the highest bidder. Murphy said, Plum Island is an ecological gem right in Connecticuts backyard. It's not every day that we have the chance to protect an entire island in the Sound, and this report provides proof that alternatives to selling the island exist. I will not stop fighting until Plum Island and its natural treasures are permanently protected from development. Currently, the federal General Service Administration is required by law to sell the entire island, including the research facility and the surrounding natural habitat to the highest bidder, and is limited in transferring the island to another federal agency, such as the U.S. National Parks Service or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, for preservation. Congress mandated the sale in order to help pay for construction of the new bio-lab in Kansas. However, legislation since then successfully included money for the lab, so the sale of the island is no longer necessary. The Senators have introduced legislation to repeal the law requiring the sale. Local News, Business & Finance, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer Kirsten E. Gillibrand today announced $9,848,434 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for Nassau County. Nassau County, NY - June 28, 2016 - U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer Kirsten E. Gillibrand today announced $9,848,434 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding for Nassau County, which will reimburse the cost of Superstorm Sandy-related repairs for buildings and equipment. The funds also include hazard mitigation efforts. Buildings throughout Nassau County were hit hard by Superstorm Sandy and in need of critical repairs, said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer These federal funds will not only help make Nassau County whole again but also make the countys buildings stronger than before, without leaving local taxpayers on the hook for these expenses. I am pleased Long Island will get this federal funding from FEMA to help cover the cost of renovating buildings damaged as a result of Superstorm Sandy, said Senator Gillibrand. The devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy was a wakeup call for the urgent need to invest in modern, updated infrastructure that keeps all New Yorkers more secure, and this critical funding will help ensure that local taxpayers arent left to foot the bill alone as recovery efforts continue. I will continue to fight for resources so we can rebuild even stronger and be ready for when the next storm hits. Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano stated, I thank Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their continued partnership in strengthening Nassau County post-Superstorm Sandy The FEMA funds will be provided to Nassau County Public Works to cover the eligible costs related to the replacement of Bay Park Laboratory and the Bay Park Construction Administration Building. It also includes repairs to the Cow Meadow Park Buildings, Wantagh Park/Community Center Yacht Club, Bay Park Sewer/Road Maintenance Building, Inwood Park Shoreline and Maintenance Garage, and the Nassau County Police Department Marine Bureau Building. The project also addresses the replacement of hazmat vehicles, contents, and equipment damaged by floodwaters at facilities throughout the County. The Applicant identified alternate scopes for replacement vehicles and equipment for Sites 4 and 5 and for repairs to the Bay Park Maintenance Building at Site 10. Local News, Business & Finance, Travel & Local Attractions, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced more than $800,000 in FAA grant funding for upgrades at airports on LI. Shirley / East Farmingdale, NY - June 28, 2016 - U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced more than $800,000 in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant funding for upgrades at airports on Long Island. Specifically, $234,338 in funds will be provided to Brookhaven Calabro Airport for new taxiway lighting and $569,605 in funds will be provided to Republic Airport for the installation of an airport beacon. This important investment will help improve safety at both Brookhaven Calabro Airport and Republic Airport on Long Island,said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. I am pleased to announce this federal funding, which will provide much-needed lighting upgrades at these airports so that our pilots can fly safely even during low visibility conditions. This funding through the Department of Transportations Federal Aviation Administration would help support critical infrastructure upgrades to the Brookhaven Calabro Airport and Republic Airport, said Senator Gillibrand. Investing in our airports infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for the businesses and travelers who rely on it every day. I will continue to push for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety. "This federal funding will allow us to make critical infrastructure upgrades for the safety of pilots using Brookhaven Calabro Airport and our residents in the surrounding community," said Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine. "I want to thank Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for their assistance in securing these funds for this project." At Brookhaven Calabro Airport, the current taxiway lighting system has reached the end of its useful life and requires rehabilitation to enhance safe airfield operations during low visibility conditions. This grant will provide funding for Phase 4 of 4 and will replace the Taxiway Z edge lighting. Brookhaven Calabro Airport is maintained by the Town of Brookhavens Division of General Aviation and is located in Shirley, New York. The municipal airport facility handles more than 135,000 annual aircraft operations. At Republic Airport, the grant will fund the construction phase for replacement and relocation of the airports existing beacon that has reached the end of its useful life. Republic Airport is located in East Farmingdale and handles more than 180,000 operations each year. Tech & Science, School & Education, Local News, Local Experts, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 Prestigious Frank G. Brewer Award to Be Presented to Long Island Group CAP's Major Robert I. Aceves. Holbrook, NY - June 29, 2016 - Civil Air Patrol Maj. Robert I. Aceves, of Civil Air Patrol Maj. Robert I. Aceves, of Smithtown , has won the organization's prestigious Frank G. Brewer Lifetime Achievement Award, naming him as the 2016 top aerospace educator in the nation. Underscoring this milestone, Maj. Aceves has been a member of the Civil Air Patrol in four states since 1978 and currently serves at the Long Island Group level, holding the posts of Aerospace Education Officer, Director of Operations and Standardization & Evaluation Officer. Maj. Aceves, who holds flight and instruments instructor ratings (CFI & CFII), also serves as a CAP flight instructor and mission pilot for its search & rescue operations. Concurrent with his CAP membership, Maj. Aceves served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, initially as a flight mechanic and becoming a flight engineer, logging over 10,000 flying hours in the Lockheed C-5A Galaxy and McDonnell Douglas KC-10 Extender. After retiring from the Air Force, Maj. Aceves earned his doctorate in School Administration and began the second phase of his career as a professor at the City University of New York, instilling the next generation of aviators with a passion and love for flying. Additionally, he assisted the Henry Viscardi School, located in Albertson, in setting up their aviation career program using CAP curriculum and regularly brings groups of students from CUNY to The Wings Club, where they are able to meet and network with aviation industry leaders. Commenting on where his career has taken him, Maj. Aceves says his greatest satisfaction comes from working with youth and young adults to "change the face of aviation, one smile at a time!" Maj. Aceves will receive his award at Civil Air Patrol's National Conference, being held this August in Nashville, Tennessee. Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Forces Total Force, which consists of regular Air Force, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, along with Air Force retired military and civilian employees. CAP, in its Total Force role, operates a fleet of 550 aircraft and performs about 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 78 lives annually. Civil Air Patrols 56,000 members nationwide also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. Its members additionally play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to more than 24,000 young people currently participating in the CAP cadet program. Performing missions for America for the past 75 years, CAP received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014 in honor of the heroic efforts of its World War II veterans. CAP also participates in Wreaths Across America, an initiative to remember, honor and teach about the sacrifices of U.S. military veterans. Visit www.capvolunteernow.com for more information. Nassau County, NY - June 28, 2016 - Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today announced that for the sixth consecutive year, the Nassau County Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) - administered by the Nassau County Department of Social Services (DSS) and funded by New York State Department of Education - will begin July 5th and end August 19th. Lunch meals are being provided to all eligible children 18 years and under without charge, and acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. County Executive Mangano stated, The Summer Food Service Program ensures children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session. Together, we are making sure no child goes hungry this summer. Nassau County receives reimbursement from the Federal government to cover administrative and operating costs of serving free lunches meeting USDA nutritional requirements to eligible children at 33 community sites within Nassau County. All eligible sites are monitored regularly by SFSP seasonal staff, including a Program Administrator and Director. In addition, sanitarians from the Nassau County Department of Health are involved in the inspections of the lunch sites and ensuring safety of the food provided to the youth participating in the programs. Eligible children must reside in areas in which one half or more of the children are from households with income at or below the eligibility level for free and reduced price school meals, or 185% of the Federal poverty guideline. During the 2015 SFSP a total of 61,800 lunches were served to eligible children in 29 countywide sites. In 2016 the County expects to serve approximately 70,000 lunches to 2,800 children at 33 community sites during the months of July and August. For more information about the national Summer Food Service Program, visit here. For information about the 2016 various sites and lunch schedules in Nassau County, please contact the Summer Food Service Program Coordinator Carl DeHaney at (516) 227 8615. Local News, Crime, National & World News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today called on Congress to boost federal funding for Department of Justice (DOJ) programs that prevent hate crimes and discrimination. Washington, DC - June 19, 2016 - U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today called on Congress to boost federal funding for Department of Justice (DOJ) programs that prevent hate crimes and discrimination. Schumer today said that the fatal Orlando attack on a gay nightclub underscores the threats faced by the whole LGBT community across the nation, and here in New York, and requires an adequate response to protect all citizens against terror and hate. All Americansregardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or race---should be kept safe from discrimination and hate and violence, said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. New Yorks melting pot has unfortunately not escaped the rash of hate crimes targeting several communities like our LGBT family. Our local law enforcement agents must be equipped with the federal resources needed to prevent, investigate and prosecute hate crimes and thats why Im calling on Congress to pass this amendment because it is the first duty of government to protect its citizens from fear and hate and violence. Schumer said Congress must pass a new Department of Justice amendment he is pushing so that local law enforcement agencies in New York have access to the resources needed to keep all New Yorkers safe by preventing potential prejudiced attacks as well as investigating and prosecuting federal hate crimes. In response to the bias-motivated attacks against the LGBT and Latino communities in Orlando, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) unveiled a new amendment that would ensure the DOJ has the necessary resources to prevent, investigate and prosecute potential hate crimes throughout the country. Specifically, under the proposal, the DOJs Civil Rights Division (CRT) and Community Relations Service (CRS) would be allocated an additional $30 million and $11 million respectfully. Schumer today said that New York City has unfortunately not escaped the wave of hate crimes targeting the LGBT community. A New York man last year was arrested last year for attacking Larry and Daniel Lennox-Choate, the first gay couple to be married at West Point Military Academy. In addition, this past March, Elliot Morales was convicted of murder as a hate crime for killing Mark Carson, a gay man, in Manhattan. Morales was sentences 40 years to life in prison. In April , James Dixon was sentenced to 12 years in prison after murdering Islan Nettles, a transgender woman. A recent New York Times article says that LGBT people are now twice as likely to be targeted for hate crimes than any other minority group. According to the FBI, of the 6,727 victims of hate crimes reported by federal law enforcement agencies in 2014, 18.7 percent (or 1, 248) of victims of single-bias crimes were targeted because of their sexual orientation; 1.6 percent (or 109) of victims of single-bias crimes were targeted because of their gender-identity; and .6 percent (or 4 DOJs Civil Rights Division 0) of victims of single-bias crimes were targeted because of their gender. Schumer explained that, unfortunately, the number of hate crimes may be even higher. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, most crimes are not reported to the police and those that are reported are often not classified as hate crimes. A full summary of the amendment Schumer is pushing can be found below: Local News, Crime, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas announced that a New Jersey man who stole approximately $1.6 million from the Bellmore-Merrick EMS was sentenced today. Mineola, NY - June 29, 2016 - Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas announced that a New Jersey man who stole approximately $1.6 million from the Bellmore-Merrick EMS was sentenced today to two to six years in prison. Brad Reiter, 50, of Jackson, New Jersey, was arrested by DA investigators in September 2015 and pleaded guilty on April 16 before Acting Supreme Court Justice Jerald Carter to Grand Larceny in the 1st Degree (a B felony). He also reached a restitution settlement agreement with the Bellmore-Merrick EMS. Today, Judge Carter sentenced the defendant to two to six years in prison. EMS volunteers selflessly provide lifesaving medical care to Nassau residents every day, said DA Singas. As a leader of the organization, this defendant knew the importance of these critical resources to the safety and health of our communities, but outrageously, he stole more than $1.6 million from EMS coffers and selfishly used the money for personal expenses. This sentence should send a strong message that this conduct will not be tolerated in Nassau County. The Board, officers and members of Bellmore-Merrick EMS are grateful to District Attorney Singas and Assistant District Attorney Peter Mancuso for taking such swift and decisive action in prosecuting Mr. Reiter, said Michael Verbsky, Vice-President of the Bellmore-Merrick EMS Board, during an impact statement in court today. Our organization was formed to serve the public in its worst times of need, not to be the honey pot for one greedy man. No organization should ever have to go through what our organization has had to suffer through. DA Singas said that new leadership at the Bellmore-Merrick EMS took over the organization in January 2015 and examined past bank accounts to prepare an annual report. At that time it was discovered that the amount of money Reiter reported as receiving from insurance companies to pay for ambulance services was far less than the amount that the EMS should have been receiving. The EMS was able to verify that much more money should have been deposited into the organizations account by Reiter, and found that Reiter had written checks to himself for which there was no explanation. Reiter stole approximately $1.6 million between March 2008 and March 2015, during which time he held the titles of treasurer and president of the volunteer organization. He was found to have spent the money on credit card and insurance bills, lawn services, security system services and payments to himself. Reiter was terminated by the EMS in March 2015, and the case was referred to the District Attorneys Office for further investigation. Assistant District Attorney Peter Mancuso of DA Singas Government and Consumer Frauds Bureau is prosecuting the case. Reiter is represented by Samuel E. Rieff, Esq. Food, Wine, & Dining, Family & Parenting, School & Education, Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases, Seasonal & Current Events By Long Island News & PR Published: June 30 2016 Through the Summer Reading Program, over 110 of the public libraries on Long Island offer a series of diverse reading programs and more during the summer months. In celebration of 28 years of supporting summer reading in Nassau and Suffolk public libraries, Ronald McDonald will be appearing at several local libraries where he will perform his Reading and Magic Show. West Babylon, NY - June 30, 2016 - Upon completion of their librarys summer reading program, Long Island McDonalds and the Nassau Library System and Suffolk Cooperative Library System will reward children in Nassau and Suffolk counties with a certificate for their choice of a free grilled chicken snack wrap, cheeseburger or 6PC Chicken McNuggets, and a low fat chocolate milk, apple juice, or 12oz soft drink. McDonalds is committed to supporting educational programs in the community, especially initiatives that encourage children to read. Through the Summer Reading Program, over 110 of the public libraries on Long Island offer a series of diverse reading programs, as well as fun and educational activities for children of all ages to enjoy during the summer months. We are excited to once again partner with the LI McDonalds Owners and Operators. Their support of the Summer Reading Program for the past 28 years has been a wonderful partnership and something that the children look forward to each year. We thank them for their continued support,says Renee McGrath, Nassau Library System Youth Services Manager. I am extremely proud that this program has been in existence for 28 years, reaching school children from Kindergarten through high school. It is a truly rewarding program that encourages reading literacy and reinforces that we are a grassroots company, says Luciana Montuoro, LI McDonalds Marketing & PR Director. In celebration of 28 years of supporting summer reading in Nassau and Suffolk public libraries, Ronald McDonald will be appearing at several local libraries where he will perform his Reading and Magic Show. McDonalds is one of the worlds best known brand and is a global leader in food service. There are more than 600 McDonalds Restaurants, owned by 100 franchisees, and located throughout the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut Tri-State area. There are 80 restaurants located throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties on Long Island. Visit www.LIMcDonalds.com to join the McValue Club for great savings at popular attractions on Long Island, and for more information on our fire safety, summer reading and bike safety programs, and to learn more about the community programs and organizations that we help support. Looking to stay up to date about all of the news stories and local headlines that are important to Long Islanders? We've rounded up the top coverage for all of the important topics from multiple sources around Long Island, so you can be sure you've got the most recent update on the top stories for Long Island. Have an idea for a news story? Email us at news@longisland.com Columnists Press Releases Major General Mohammad Bagheri from Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was promoted Tuesday to the chief of the Armed Forces General Staff, which oversees coordination between the IRGC and the regular Army. Mehdi Mohammadi, a former Iranian government official close to pro-IRGC circles, wrote about some of the implications in a post on Instagram (former and current Iranian officials frequently use this medium) yesterday. Mohammadi was a member of the Supreme National Security Council Secretariat during the Ahmadinejad era, when Tehran pursued hardline nuclear policies, and has criticized President Hassan Rouhanis nuclear policies. He now writes for major hardline media outlets as an analyst. The armed forces would be more revolutionary, according to Mohammadi, and there would be several changes in Irans armed forces. Cutting-edge strategic thinking would be injected into the armed forces structure. Coordination would improve between the IRGC and the regular Army, according to Mohammadi. The armed forces would prioritize new threats including cyber warfare. The military would boost external operations including the Qods Force and enhance Irans geopolitical agility. Intelligence operations would also be strengthened, claimed Mohammadi. Amir Toumaj is a independent analyst and contributor to FDD's Long War Journal. Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here. A pair of Taliban suicide bombers killed dozens of people, including police cadets and the first responders who arrived to administer aid after the initial attack, in a coordinated assault in the Afghan capital of Kabul. The attack is the third large scale assault by the Taliban in the capital since April. The first suicide bomber targeted a convoy of buses carrying police cadets as they traveled in the Company area of Kabul City from neighboring Wardak province, according to TOLONews. The second suicide bomber then detonated his explosives as emergency personnel rendered aid to the victims of the first blast. At least 27 people are reported to have been killed in the twin bombings. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed credit for the deadly bombings and admitted that the second suicide bomber targeted the first responders. Police academy bus carrying 27 officers initially targeted by martyrdom seeker in Company area of the countrys capital Kabul, Mujahid noted on his Twitter account. As enemy troops gathered at site, another martyrdom seeker hit them with car bomb, killing & wounding dozens of more hirelings, or Afghan security personnel. The tactic of following up a suicide attack with a second bomber who targets first responders is common among jihadist groups. This tactic has been used by groups such as the Taliban, al Qaeda and its various branches, and the Islamic State. The Taliban have conducted three mass-casualty suicide attacks in the Afghan capital since the spring. On April 19, a suicide assault team struck a security headquarters in the heart of the city, killing at least 64 people and wounding 347 more, according to reports. That attack prompted US Forces Afghanistan to issue an unusual press release asking for help in identifying suspected insurgents who were plotting attacks in Kabul and the surrounding provinces. On June 20, a Taliban suicide bomber targeted a bus in the capital, and killed 23 people, including 14 Nepali security guards. The bus was carrying individuals who worked at the Canadian embassy. The Taliban claimed responsibility for both attacks, and said they were part of Operation Omari, the 2016 spring offensive named after Mullah Omar, its founder and first emir. When the Taliban announced the commencement of Omari, it said it would continue to use suicide bombers and would target both Afghan and foreign forces. [T]he Operation will employ large scale attacks on enemy positions across the country, martyrdom-seeking and tactical attacks against enemy strongholds, and assassination of enemy commanders in urban centers, according to the Taliban statement. The present Operation will also employ all means at our disposal to bog the enemy down in a war of attrition that lowers the morale of the foreign invaders and their internal armed militias. By employing such a multifaceted strategy it is hoped that the foreign enemy will be demoralized and forced to evict our nation. The Taliban has claimed that it has thousands of fully armed martyrdom seekers at its disposal to conduct attacks inside Afghanistan and has provided some information on the structure of its martyrdom units. The Taliban has identified two key leaders of its Suicide Groups. Mullah Taj Mir Jawad has been described as the head of a martyrdom-seekers battalion. Jawad swore allegiance to Mullah Mansour, the groups previous emir, in a video released in September 2015. Qari Abdul Raouf Zakir, the commander of the Talibans suicide groups, also swore allegiance to Mullah Mansour in the same video as Jawad. Qari Zakir, who was designated as a terrorist by the State Department in November 2012, has long commanded the Haqqani Networks suicide operations. The Haqqani Network is an al Qaeda-linked Taliban subgroup that operates throughout Afghanistan and is based in Pakistan, where it is supported by Pakistans military and the Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate. Sirajuddin Haqqani, the operational commander of the Haqqani Network, serves as one of two deputies to Mullah Habaitullah, the new emir of the Taliban, and as the head of the Talibans military. The Taliban has also promoted suicide teams in its propaganda. The Muaskar ul Fida, one of several suicide squads operating in Afghanistan, previously swore allegiance to the Talibans last emir in November 2015. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal. Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here. The Department of State added Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) to its list of Foreign Terrorist Organization and listed its emir, Asim Umar, as a specially Designated global terrorist. The US government and intelligence services have consistently underestimated the strength of AQIS, which is an official branch of al Qaeda that is based in Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Burma. Todays action notifies the US public and the international community that AQIS and Umar are actively engaged in terrorism, State notes in todays press release announcing the designation. States designation says that Ayman al Zawahiri, al Qaedas emir, announced the formation of AQIS in September 2014. However, when Zawahiri announced the formation of AQIS, he noted that al Qaeda worked to create the group for over two years. Additionally, Zawahiri said that AQIS reported directly to the emir of the Afghan Taliban. This fact was omitted from States designation of AQIS. This entity was not established today, but it is the fruit of a blessed effort for more than two years to gather the mujahideen in the Indian subcontinent into a single entity to be with the main group, Qaedat al-Jihad, from the soldiers of the Islamic Emirate and its triumphant emir, Allah permitting, Emir of the Believers Mullah Muhammad Omar Mujahid, Zawahiri said in September 2014. [See LWJ report, Al Qaeda opens branch in the Indian Subcontinent.] State also notes that Asim Umar is a former member of US designated Foreign Terrorist Organization Harakat ul Mujahideen. Umar also served as a commander in the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan as well as a sharia official in al Qaedas branch in Pakistan, before it merged into AQIS. Umars previous positions in Harakat ul Mujahideen and the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan should come as no surprise. Al Qaeda has relied on what it used to call the deep bench of jihadist groups in South Asia to bolster its ranks after suffering losses from US drone strikes and counterterrorism operations in Pakistan and Afghanistan. AQIS includes elements from the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban, Harakat-ul-Muhajideen, Harakat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami and Brigade 313, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, the Indian Mujahideen (a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba), the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, the Turkistan Islamic Party, Junood al Fida, and other groups based in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. [See LWJ report, Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent incorporates regional jihadist groups.] The State designation also noted some high-profile AQIS attacks in the region, including the Sept. 6, 2014 attempt to hijack a Pakistani frigate in Karachi. AQIS used Pakistani naval personnel to aid their plot. AQIS has also claimed responsibility for the murders of activists and writers in Bangladesh, including that of US citizen Avijit Roy, US Embassy local employee Xulhaz Mannan, and of Bangladeshi nationals Oyasiqur Rahman Babu, Ahmed Rajib Haideer, and A.K.M. Shafiul Islam, State notes. AQIS emir Umar claimed those killed in Bangladesh were blasphemers as they were atheists, homosexuals, and other activists who insulted Islam. Umar also said the attacks were order by Zawahiri. [See LWJ report, Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent leader says attacks on blasphemers ordered by Zawahiri.] AQIS expands While State notes the high profile attacks executed by AQIS, it omitted two key threats posed by AQIS: the re-establishment of training camps in Afghanistan, and a burgeoning cadre of fighters and operatives loyal to al Qaeda. While the State Department recently described al Qaedas network in Pakistan and Afghanistan as severely degraded in the region, al Qaeda is know to have operated three training camps in Afghanistan over the past year. One of the two camps, in Shorabak, Kandahar province, was a massive facility that was well stocked and covered over 30 square miles. In October 2015, a large US military strike force took four days to clear the two al Qaeda camps in Shorabak and killed over 150 al Qaeda operatives. The US military was shocked by the size of the facility. [See LWJ reports, US military strikes large al Qaeda training camps in southern Afghanistan, and Al Qaedas Kandahar training camp probably the largest in Afghan War.] The Shorabak raids forced the US government and military to admit that its previous long-held estimates on al Qaedas strength in Afghanistan were wrong. Since 2010, US officials have claimed that al Qaeda has been decimated in Afghanistan and has maintained a consistent minimal presence of 50 to 100 operatives in contry. In April, Brigadier General Charles Cleveland, the top spokesman for Resolute Support, told The Washington Post that al Qaeda has forged close ties to the Taliban and is resurgent in the country. Additionally, Buchanan told CNN that al Qaeda may have upwards of 300 operatives in the country, but that number does include other facilitators and sympathizers in their network. [See LWJ report, US military admits al Qaeda is stronger in Afghanistan than previously estimated.] In addition to underestimating al Qaedas strength in Afghanistan, US officials have maintained for years that the jihadist group has been weakened in Pakistan due to drone strikes, and that no more than 400 operatives were in country. But The Washington Post shattered that long-held estimate on June 3 when it reported on al Qaedas growing presence in Karachi, Pakistan. Hundreds if not thousands of al Qaeda operatives and recruits are thought to be operating in that Pakistani city alone. Counterterrorism officials in Karachi have a list of several hundred active al Qaeda members, which makes them assume there are at least a few thousand on the streets, the Post reported. In Karachi, AQIS has divided itself into three operational segments recruitment, financial and tactical made up of four-to-six-person cells. The recruitment cells work in madrassas and schools, casually preaching Islam before targeting certain students for potential recruitment, officials said. The Post report did not touch on al Qaedas presence in other traditional areas of Paksitan, such as the tribal areas, Peshawar, Lahore, and a host of Pakistani cities. Al Qaedas massive expansion in Pakistan and Afghanistan can be directly attributed to AQIS emir Umar and Zawahiri, who carefully plotted al Qaedas path in the Indian Subcontinent. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal. Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here. Country Walkers Introduces Lavender in Provence Tour This summer, travelers can experience the peaceful essence of life in Southern France as they walk through medieval hilltop towns, colorful farms, Chateauneuf-du-Pape vineyards and authentic lavender distilleries at the most scenic and aromatic time of year.For those who prefer the flexibility of being their own guide as they explore Provences hilltop villages, colorful markets and landscapes straight out of Van Goghs paintings, Country Walkers offers the Provence & St. Remy self-guided walking adventure.Additionally, get your lavender fix this summer with VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations Provence: The Alpilles biking tour or the France: Slow Road Through Provence walking tour.Additional itinerary highlights for the Country Walkers France Lavender in Provence tour include: A crash course in some of the 365+ varieties of French cheese during a tasting hosted by a master cheese-maker, along with exceptional wine pairings. Near Sault, visit a traditional lavender distillery and learn from the owners themselves how they harvest and extract the signature scent of Provence. Get lost in the labyrinthine cobbled streets and Renaissance castle of Gordes, a golden-stone village perched above the Calavon Valley.More information: Fleeps - Colorful flip flops you design yourself FLEEPS has got you covered for the sunny days ahead. These cute and colorful sandals offers a unique design featuring an adjustable cross-ankle strap, smooth-finish toe thong and a lightweight shock-absorbent sole, perfect for strolling on the boardwalk after a long day in the waves.Most importantly when you buy a pair of FLEEPS, you change a life. Founded in 2015 by Kael Robinson, global good curator and CEO of Brazilets and Live Worldly, the Denver-based company is dedicated to creating a sustainable yet stylish product that changes the course of poverty through education. FLEEPS' goal is to sell over one million pairs to send over 10,000 girls to school by 2019. Ten percent of every pair of FLEEPS sold goes to the FLEEPS Foundation providing funding to its non-profit partners committed to the education of girls, including Shining Hope for Communities and Starfish Impact. FLEEPS uniquely designed sandals are classic, versatile, fun and allow women to step into their best selves.Visit website: Lamzac - Wherever you go, make yourself comfortable The idea for the patent-pending product started in 2010 when Marijn Oomen, the Lamzac's creator, took part in the Dutch television program, Het Beste Idee van Nederland, in which experts searched for the best inventions created in the Neatherlands. On the show, he first presented the idea of scooping air into a deflated bag to create shapes that could then be used for seating. Over time, this concept eventually led to Oomen's creation of the Lamzac Hangout, an elongated bag that can be filled with air and put into the shape of a lounger.The Lamzac Hangout is available in seven colors, and is easily deflated and stored in a portable carrying bag. Retailing for $79, the Lamzac Hangout is available exclusively now on the company's website atand will be available in retail stores starting in July. Langham Hotels & Resorts Introduce Langham Lifestyles This package, which is offered at all twenty Langham Hotels & Resorts worldwide, is an extension of each hotel's Langham Lifestyles website section, which features concierge tips to enable guests to experience the best of each destination.The four Langham Hotels & Resorts locations in the U.S. The Langham, Boston; The Langham, Chicago; The Langham Huntington, Pasadena; and Langham Place, New York -have gone all out with their versions of Langham Lifestyles, incorporating the most unique elements of Boston, Chicago, New York and Pasadena.Each Langham Lifestyles package includes luxurious accommodations and activities and amenities chosen specifically to reflect each city.- Langham Lifestyles Boston at The Langham, Boston includes a welcome package complete with a selfie stick and a Picture Perfect Boston list of photographable sites and attractions; and a Chocolate Elevation amenity, highlighting 25 chocolate treats chosen by the culinary masterminds behind The Langham's famous Chocolate Bar. Rates for Langham Lifestyles Boston start at $249 USD.- Langham Lifestyles Pasadena at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena features breakfast at The Terrace restaurant, which serves California bistro-style fare in a light and airy setting; complimentary valet parking; all the fixings for a movie night in the comfort of your room, including popcorn and refreshments as well as two in-room movies; and a map for the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Rates for Langham Lifestyles Pasadena start at $324 USD.- Langham Lifestyles Chicago at The Langham, Chicago features daily breakfast for four (two adults and two children) at Travelle Kitchen + Bar, The Langham's celebrated restaurant; four tickets to the newly remodeled Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier; as well as a Chicago treat specially chosen by The Langham's concierge team. Rates for Langham Lifestyles Chicago start at $455 USD.- Langham Lifestyles NewYork at Langham Place, New York includes Continental Breakfast for two; two passes for a walking tour of the historic theater district, including back-stage at some of the most famous theaters; a $200 credit to be used towards purchasing Broadway tickets through Langham Place's concierge; and pre-show drinks at Bar Fiori at Ai Fiori, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant. Rates for Langham Lifestyles New York start at $685 USD.More information: Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Offers New Backpack Concierge Morning Hikes (all skill levels): Taking in the fresh, mountain air is the ideal way to de-stress and wake up the body and mind each morning. This can include an easy, guided hike to a gorgeous vista with coffee provided by the hotel. Guests can conclude the experience with a gourmet breakfast and fresh fruit juices at 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill. Taking in the fresh, mountain air is the ideal way to de-stress and wake up the body and mind each morning. This can include an easy, guided hike to a gorgeous vista with coffee provided by the hotel. Guests can conclude the experience with a gourmet breakfast and fresh fruit juices at 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill. Beaver Creek Mountain and Gourmet Lunch hike (all skill levels): Each Tuesday and Saturday, a professional guide with the Beaver Creek Hiking Center will lead small groups along beautiful mountain trails to enjoy a delicious, gourmet lunch on the mountain. Each Tuesday and Saturday, a professional guide with the Beaver Creek Hiking Center will lead small groups along beautiful mountain trails to enjoy a delicious, gourmet lunch on the mountain. Hike for Wine (all skill levels): Each week, guides at Beaver Creek Mountain Resort will provide wine excursion hikes to the stunning Beaver Lake and Beanos Cabin, located atop Beaver Creek Mountain in the White River National Forest. Each week, guides at Beaver Creek Mountain Resort will provide wine excursion hikes to the stunning Beaver Lake and Beanos Cabin, located atop Beaver Creek Mountain in the White River National Forest. 14er Hike (moderate to advanced skill level):For the adventurous guest wanting the full Colorado experience, each Wednesday, a professional guide with the Beaver Creek Hiking Center will take small groups up nearby 14,000-foot mountains (a 14er, as locals refer to it). With the new Backpack Concierge, the property will have a selection of Fjallravens premium, sustainable backpacks available for guests to use throughout their stay so they can explore their stunning surroundings equipped with high-design, technical outdoor gear.Since the launch of its first product, a wooden-framed backpack developed by founder Ake Nordin in 1960, Fjallraven has been synonymous with technical pack design. Guests can choose from two styles the Kaipak , an advanced, timeless trekking pack, and the Rucksack No.21 Medium, a classic backpack made from strong, waxed fabric and with details in natural tone leather. Guests will also receive a one-time discount on future Fjallraven purchases.The Backpack Concierge debuts in tandem with new, robust summer programming, all encouraging guests to hit the trails and take in the inspiring vistas that surround the resort. Included in this programming are various hiking experiences, offering memorable excursions suitable for every skill level. For guided hiking experiences, guests should schedule excursions with Park Hyatts Backpack Concierge. These include:Park Hyatt Beaver Creek will also be sharing their Local Secrets, tapping into the resort teams expert knowledge and offering guests authentic, enriching adventure experiences and insider information to create a more personalized and memorable visit. Guests will be provided Local Secrets cards curated by the on-site staff because the best information always comes from the people who live locally and spend their free time exploring. Local Secrets cards change seasonally, and can be picked up at the concierge desk. For summer, locals secrets include everything from the best hot springs near Beaver Creek to the top pet-friendly patios and hikes in the area.Located at the base of Beaver Creek resort, Park Hyatt Beaver Creek creates luxury experiences, curated with genuine care and passion for its guests and visitors. When travelers arrive through the private gates of the resort, they are transported to a mountainside experience where the hotel team masters detail and personalized services for each guest. Providing access to some of the best year round mountain activities in the world, Park Hyatt Beaver Creek offers guests chateau-style luxury accommodations, direct mountain access, an award-winning Allegria Spa that features 23 treatment rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness center, plus seasonally inspired dining at its signature 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill fine dining restaurant. Other resort amenities include 20,000 sq. ft. of event and meetings space, a heated, outdoor pool and five mountainside hot tubs, Powder 8 restaurant, in-room dining, seasonal ski- and bike-valet and a full business center. For more information about Park Hyatt Beaver Creek, please visit: www.beavercreek.hyatt.com Mumbai : In a boost to Indias maritime prowess, the Navy today successfully test-fired the nearly 70 KM range Surface to Air Missile Barak 8 from INS Kolkata, paving the way for installation of the system, developed jointly by India and Israel, on board countrys frontline warships. The Navy described the maiden firing of its newly developed Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LR SAM) as a significant milestone in enhancing its anti-air warfare capability. The firing was undertaken on the Western Seaboard by INS Kolkata, wherein the missile successfully intercepted an aerial target at extended ranges, a statement by Navy said. Two missiles were fired yesterday and today on high speed targets, during naval exercises being undertaken in the Arabian Sea. Apart from the missile, the system includes a Multi Functional Surveillance and Threat Alert Radar (MF STAR) for detection, tracking and guidance of the missile. The firing trial of the LR-SAM has been jointly carried out by the Indian Navy, DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries. Israel made MF-STAR radar system is capable of simultaneously tracking hundreds of airborne targets to a range of more than 250 KM. DRDL, Hyderabad, a DRDO Lab, has jointly developed this missile in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries. The LR-SAM has been manufactured by M/s Bharat Dynamics Limited. These Surface-to-Air Missiles are fitted onboard the Kolkata Class Destroyers and would also be fitted on all future major warships of the Navy. The missile along with the MF STAR would provide these ships the capability to neutralise aerial threats at extended ranges. A Barak-8 battery, including the Adir radar system made by IAI subsidiary Elta Systems, a command and control system, and the missile launchers, is already installed on the deck of Israeli Navy ship Lahav, from which the new interceptor was fired last week as part of a complete trial of the system. PTI Kochi: Weeks after nabbing the convict in the sensational Jisha murder case, the police has taken out Ameerul Islam's mask in public, revealing his face. On Thursday, Ameer was taken into the court without the black mask. Earlier the police refused to reveal his face, by pointing that it would affect the investigation. The police had also asked the court to stop the media from publishing Ameerul's photo. Jisha, a law college student was brutally raped and murdered at her residence at Perumbavoor on April 28. Marie Claire newsletter Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox! Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Thank you for signing up to . You will receive a verification email shortly. There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again. By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions (opens in new tab) and Privacy Policy (opens in new tab) and are aged 16 or over. The making of a millennial wardrobe for a historic fashion show Ab Fab (opens in new tab) shocked and delighted with its wild sartorial escapades back in it's nineties heyday (opens in new tab). In an era that was defined by Calvin Klein minimalism and slickly-clad supermodels, Eddie and Patsy (opens in new tab) were something of a style anomaly. And we loved them all the more for their eccentricities. As their silver screen debut heralds a very welcome homecoming, we wondered how the chain-smoking, champagne-swilling fashion darlings (opens in new tab) would fare in a world filled with juice cleanses and gym selfies? Could they bear to ditch their Holland Park digs for a Hackney warehouse? And swap Versace for Vetements (opens in new tab)? From the outset, all those involved in the film were adamant that, above all else, it was the costumes that were going to ground the film convincingly in the modern day, says costume designer Rebecca Hale. They were going If the fashion isnt right, the whole thing topples. We had to make it now. We had to make it cool. We had to make sure that no-one, at any point, could accuse us of being old hat. Judging by the high-fashion line up of designers involved, there should be no fear of that. Hale joined the Ab Fab team in the early 2000s. Between her and the shows main cast - Jennifer Saunders (Edina Monsoon), Joanna Lumley (Patsy Moon), Julia Sawalha (Saffron), Jane Horrocks (Bubble) - she knows the characters and their wardrobes inside out. In many ways, Rebecca is now introducing them to a whole new audience, as well as satisfying the expectations of long-standing fans of the show. With six weeks to prep, slap bang in the middle of fashion month, Rebecca pulled together the most exciting, and insightful, ensembles for the notoriously fashion-centric ensemble cast. From Topshop to bespoke Vivienne Westwood, Rebecca shared her wardrobe secrets with us... There are some hilarious millennial moments Popular culture has changed so much since Eddie and Patsy hung up their Christian Lacroix coats, so Rebbeca found humourous ways of translating this through ditzy PA Bubbles costumes. Most of the issues on Ab Fab are related to social issues that we poke fun at quite frivolously, but theres always a cultural message behind it all. Also, while were communicating more with each other, its all non-verbal and behind screens, so in a sense the world has actually become much more insular. I worked with a brilliant pair of young designers called Vin + Omi to design some of Bubbles weirdly wonderful costumes. The most notable designs to emerge include a hashtag emoji outfit, a hat of giant collagen lips with syringes in it and a dissolvable flower dress made from 1,500 Italian crepe paper flowers; a riff on the throwaway nature of fast fashion. Instagram scouting was key to finding niche brands Rebecca found herself falling down the sartorial rabbit hole that is Instagram. One designer would lead me to another and another. It was an incredibly useful tool that I sourced some amazing pieces from. By just typing weird spectacles into the search bar, Rebecca stumbled across Amore Eye Wear, a tiny American company that produced all the glasses for Patsys love interest, Lubliana. Big name designers were keen to get on board, too Some of the greatest fans of the show just so happen to be big names designers, who were more than happy to contribute their wares, with some even jumping at the chance to make a stylish cameo themselves. I started with the old guard; from Vivienne Westwood and Giles, to Stella McCartney and Mulberry, they were all so brilliantly helpful and eager to get involved in the show. Giles Deacon - who is just as renowned for designing with his tongue firmly in his cheek, as he is for his incredible couture gowns - explained the motivation behind his involvement: Its always been important to me to see the lighter side; I hate the overbearing, tortuous side of the industry that I work in. For me, doing great work and being able to see the lighter side need not be mutually exclusive. I think its a real shame if you cant have some fun and laugh at yourself and I also think that it detracts from the personality of the clothes. Its a rookie showcase, as well As well as the household names, Rebecca wanted to champion emerging British design talent. So, she and her team contacted the University of East London. The final year students ended up writing their entire module around their designs for the film. Young British designers like Ashish, Sadie Williams, Shrimps and Sibling were all really keen to get involved. Its a fantastic showcase for them and their work is perfect for the movie as its so indicative of the current mood in fashion... Tallulah and Hope is the kaftan brand I used when Patsy and Eddie flee to France. She is a very talented young designer, who is really changing the face of beachwear. Jon Hamm is smooth AF He is even more divine than you could possibly imagine in real life. We dressed him in Dunhill suits. Enough said on that one. Kate Moss drowning dress-capades In the much-hyped scene in which Kate Moss is pushed into the Thames by an overly-zealous Patsy and Eddie (the moment that the ensuing plot of the movie hinges on), the gorgeous green sparkly dress she wore was actually pulled from Mossys own wardrobe. The dress Kate wears in that scene was given to her by Johnny Depp for her 21st birthday, I think... We had to make six versions of it because it kept going into the water! And it needed to be specially tailored to fit a wetsuit underneath. The normcore movement has made Saffron an unexpected style icon Saffron's straight up style jars completely with that of her outlandish mother. Though she was considered dowdy in the nineties, nowadays Saffron is the height of style in her hipster uniform of beige trousers and joyless jumpers. Saffron is the most fun for me to do in the sense that Ill find the most horrible pair of trousers that nobody in a million years would ever want to wear mixed with a pair of shoes that look like a Cornish pasty. Her notion of what looks right is not at all related to whether something looks good. Her look is a combination of finding horrible old jumpers in charity shops and teaming them with a nice shirt from Brora. Edina is just as addicted to online shopping as we are Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement is proud to announce that it has received US Coast Guard (USCG) Qualship 21 Program approval for the BSM India-managed, Algoma-owned bulk carrier Honourable Henry Jackman. The Quality Shipping for the 21st Century (Qualship 21) Program is aimed at recognising and rewarding internationally-flagged, high-quality ships operating within US waters. Eligibility criteria include no substandard vessel detentions in the US during the previous 36 months, and not owned or operated by a company that has had any Port State Control (PSC) detentions in US waters within the past 24 months. In awarding the Qualship 21 certificate to BSM India, the USCG advised that less than 10% of all foreign-flagged ships operating in the US meet the program eligibility requirements and commended the Company on its exceptional commitment to quality. Intelsat S.A. has been selected by Marlink to deliver fast, high quality Intelsat EpicNG broadband connectivity to Mediterranean Shipping Companys (MSC) cruise ships. At the end of May, MSC Cruises began to apply EpicNGs high throughput connectivity aboard the MSC Divina, one of the worlds largest cruise ships. Utilizing Intelsats Globalized Network, Marlink will provide broadband connectivity to all of MSC Cruises 12 existing ships, ensuring the companys entire fleet will be covered globally. Passengers and crew members are demanding mobile broadband on par with the speeds and reliability experienced at home. The agreement with Intelsat enables Marlink to supplement its existing maritime VSAT services with Sealink Cloud Services to one of the cruise line. As a result, MSC Cruises will be able to deliver high speed, reliable and affordable connectivity packages to passengers and crew members anywhere the cruise ships travel. Under the existing long-term partnership agreement signed in 2014, Marlink will take advantage of the flexibility and scale of Intelsats fully interoperable and integrated satellite network to provide MSC Cruises with global coverage for their worldwide itineraries. Marlink will use wide beam C- and Ku-band satellite solutions from nine Intelsat satellites initially, as well as Ku-band high throughput spot beams from Intelsat 29e, the first of the Intelsat EpicNG fleet, and Intelsat 33e, once it enters service in the second half of the year. Marlink will also leverage the IntelsatOne terrestrial network, specifically teleports located in Georgia and California in the U.S., as well as Germany and South Korea. When serving a floating town such as a cruise ship with connectivity requirements for its various itineraries globally, delivering consistent quality and reliability is essential to the passenger experience and the brand integrity of the customer that we are serving, said Tore Morten Olsen, President Maritime, Marlink. With Intelsat, we are providing a scalable and robust solution to MSC Cruises, delivering on high volume broadband demands across many ships operating in high-traffic regions. The high performing, resilient and secure network will enable our customer to further streamline vessel operations, deliver superior services to its crew and most importantly, keep thousands of passengers on each of their ships connected at all times. Kurt Riegelman, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Intelsat, said, Marlink has been a great partner and understands the value that Intelsats fully integrated wide beam and high throughput global network can deliver to its customers, particularly those operating a fleet of ships in the Pacific, Atlantic, Caribbean and Mediterranean ocean regions at the same time. Our Globalized Network will enable Marlink to quickly and cost effectively scale to meet its customer demands and consistently deliver high performing, resilient and secure broadband connectivity to the many ships operated by their cruise ship customer. Owners asking $1 per tonne more on Australia-China rates; Panamax rates climb to two-month high, but remain under pressure. Freight rates for large capesize dry cargo ships on key Asian routes could continue to firm next week on higher cargo volumes and bunker prices, while upbeat shipowner sentiment will also support the market, ship brokers said. "The market is pushing up a little bit. Owners' ideas though are even higher - they are indicating about $1 per tonne more on rates from eastern Australia," a Shanghai-based capesize ship broker said on Thursday. "Sentiment is more positive now than at the beginning of the week," the broker said. Higher bunker prices